Composite Fragmentation Cap Integrally Bonded to Projectile
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anti-personnel rounds lack sufficient structural integrity and lethal effect, particularly when attempting to perforate urban targets, due to limitations in fragmenting materials and cap design.
Innovation Solution
A composite fragmentation cap is created by embedding preformed fragments in a matrix bonded to a steel underbody using hot isostatic pressing, enhancing both structural integrity and lethality through tailored fragment size, shape, and material selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If matrixed fragmentation caps are used, then fragmentation effect is improved, but structural integrity deteriorates due to insufficient structural members
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining a metal matrix with embedded fragmentation preforms to create a structure that simultaneously provides both fragmentation effect and structural integrity. The metal matrix serves as the structural backbone while the embedded preforms provide the fragmentation capability, resolving the contradiction between these two opposing requirements.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If larger fragmentation caps are used, then lethal effect is improved, but volume occupied increases reducing warhead space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the distribution, density, and characteristics of fragmentation preforms within different regions of the metal matrix. This allows optimization of lethal effect in specific zones while maintaining compact overall dimensions, thereby improving lethal effect without proportionally increasing total volume.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If enhanced fragmentation steel is used, then fragmentation capability is improved, but area of effect remains insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the fragmentation system into discrete preformed fragments embedded within a continuous metal matrix. This segmentation allows for optimized fragment geometry and distribution patterns that increase the effective area of effect compared to traditional enhanced fragmentation steel approaches.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides increased lethality and structural integrity, allowing for improved performance in penetrating urban targets while maintaining manufacturing feasibility and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
The contained processing assembly is then placed inside a hot isostatic press. The hot isostatic press is then heated and pressurized to a pre-determined maximum pressure and maximum temperature for the selected binder powder material.
Implementation Method 2
The high temperature, high pressure operation turns the powdered metal binder into a solid piece near the theoretical maximum density of the material.
Implementation Method 3
A vacuum is then drawn, under a prescribed heating cycle, through the stem in order to remove any gas in the powder that would cause irregularities during the hot isostatic pressing (HIP) process.
Implementation Method 4
At an elevated temperature below the melting point of the canister and underbody materials, a pressurized inert gas such as argon consolidates the canister and its contents.
Data Source
AI summary
Process for making a fragmentation warhead using hot isostatic pressing where tungsten spheres, powdered steel, and interlock features on a mandrel are consolidated in a matrix. Then in the finished part, the front fragmentation cap, rear and interior geometries are machined, resulting in a finished warhead with an enhanced performance fragmentation cap integrally bonded to it.