Constant-Width Barrel Geometry for Rifling-Free Projectile Spin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional barrel designs for launching devices face challenges in manufacturing technology, strength, and adaptation to projectile design, particularly when using non-circular cross-sections or alternative stabilization methods.
Innovation Solution
A barrel with a cross-section in the form of a curve of constant width, defined by the expression r(φ) = D2 + C2*sin(n*φ), where n is an odd integer, is used to launch projectiles with a similar cross-section, achieving rotation stabilization through the pitch of the barrel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a barrel with non-circular cross-section (e.g., elliptical or polygonal) is used to rotate the projectile without rifling, then the manufacturing complexity and strength requirements are reduced, but the manufacturing technology and adaptation to projectile design remain challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by using a curve of constant width cross-section instead of a conventional circular cross-section. This asymmetric geometric form allows the barrel to rotate the projectile effectively while maintaining structural integrity and manufacturability. The specific mathematical definition of the curve (r(φ) = D/2 + C/2*sin(n*φ)) provides a balanced asymmetric shape that optimizes both strength and manufacturing characteristics.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rifling is used in a conventional circular barrel to rotate the projectile, then the projectile achieves rotation stabilization, but the barrel experiences increased wear and manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the rotation function from the rifling structure and transfers it to the barrel's cross-sectional geometry itself. By designing the barrel with a curve of constant width cross-section, the rotation effect is achieved through the barrel shape alone, eliminating the need for separate rifling grooves and reducing structural complexity while maintaining projectile stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the rotation function with the barrel's basic geometric form. Instead of having separate components (circular barrel + rifling), the rotation capability is integrated directly into the cross-sectional shape of the barrel, creating a unified structure that performs both containment and rotation functions simultaneously.
3Device complexity
If a smooth-bore barrel is used to reduce wear and simplify manufacturing, then the barrel structure is simplified, but the projectile cannot achieve rotation stabilization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses asymmetric geometry (curve of constant width) in the smooth-bore barrel to generate rotational force on the projectile. The non-circular cross-section creates differential contact and friction forces during firing, which naturally rotate the projectile without requiring rifling, thus maintaining both structural simplicity and rotational stability.
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
This design allows for smooth-wall barrels that can rotationally stabilize projectiles without rifling, improving manufacturing feasibility and reducing wear on the barrel, while maintaining high launch speeds and stability.
Implementation Method 1
The barrel cross-section of the barrel is rotationally symmetrically circular, and designed with or without rifling and adapted to be arranged in a similarly rotationally symmetrical and circular projectile. Fire tubes designed with rifling preferably designed with a pitch over the spread of the fire tube, which means that the projectile is rotated during the firing process.
Data Source
AI summary
A barrel for a launching device for launching projectiles with a propellant charge is arranged with a cross-section in the form of a curve of constant width. A launching device and a method for firing a rotation-stabilized projectile from a barrel are also provided.