Controllable Output Warhead with Segmented High Explosive Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing warheads lack the ability to selectively control their output to suit different targets without requiring multiple bespoke munitions, as they either lack tunability or have limitations in detonation control.
Innovation Solution
A variable output warhead design featuring multiple high explosive portions separated by non-detonative materials, allowing for independent detonation control to achieve desired explosive effects, with the use of energetic non-detonative materials like metal-filled polymers to enhance blast performance and prevent sympathetic detonation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate bespoke munitions are used for different targets, then the desired effect for each target type can be achieved, but the complexity of logistics and munition management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The warhead is divided into multiple separate high explosive portions (first, second, and third portions) that can be independently detonated. Each portion can be selectively initiated based on the target type, allowing a single munition to provide multiple explosive effects without requiring separate weapons for each target
2Power
If high explosive portions are placed in intimate contact to maximize explosive output, then the blast performance is enhanced, but sympathetic detonation between portions occurs reducing selectivity
Solution Approach 1:
Non-detonative material is placed between the high explosive portions to prevent sympathetic detonation while allowing the portions to remain in intimate contact for maximum blast performance. The intermediary material blocks the detonation wave propagation between adjacent explosive portions, enabling selective detonation control
3Adaptability or versatility
If non-detonative material is used to separate high explosive portions, then sympathetic detonation is prevented, but the total volume of high explosive is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The non-detonative material is positioned within the existing warhead structure between high explosive portions, nesting the separation function within the overall explosive assembly. This allows the non-detonative material to occupy only the interstitial space between explosive portions rather than adding external volume
4Adaptability or versatility
If air gaps are used to separate high explosive portions, then sympathetic detonation is prevented, but movement of portions during transport occurs causing breakage
Solution Approach 1:
Non-detonative material serves as an intermediary that both prevents sympathetic detonation and provides mechanical support to prevent portion movement. The material fills the space between explosive portions, creating both detonation isolation and structural stabilization during transport and handling
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
Enables selective control over explosive output, minimizing collateral damage and optimizing effects for various targets by allowing for low-order or high-order detonation modes, reducing the need for multiple munitions and enhancing blast performance.
Implementation Method 1
separated by a non-detonative material that is capable of preventing sympathetic detonation between said portions
Implementation Method 2
The non-detonative material may comprise high energy materials such as an energetic material (i.e. combustible material), or powdered metal, particularly metal loaded polymers, and yet more preferably reactive metals, such as aluminium
Implementation Method 3
By high explosive is meant a material which is capable of sustaining detonation when it is impacted upon by a detonative impulse
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
This invention relates to a novel munition (1) comprising a controllable output warhead and also munitions comprising one or more of said warheads. There are further provided methods of preparing the warheads of the invention, methods of controllably detonating the warheads and a kit suitable for preparing such a warhead. The warhead comprises an inner and outer portion of high explosive (3, 4) co-axially located and separated by a non-detonative material (5), such that in use at least two output modes are possible, by either simultaneous detonation of both the inner and outer portion high explosives (3, 4) or selective detonation of the inner high explosive portion (3).