Deformable Wheel Suspension for Mass Decoy Ground Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mass decoy systems face a compromise between decoy performance, wheel set durability, and convoy mobility, with prior art systems either underperforming during decoying or rolling phases due to the use of automotive or earthmoving wheel sets.
Innovation Solution
A mass decoy system with a chassis equipped with a running gear featuring compressed gas spring elements, a pressure-equalizing device, and wheels with a hub, elastically deformable rim, and spokes, allowing for constant ground contact and improved dynamic behavior during both decoying and rolling phases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If automotive wheel sets are used in mass decoy systems, then convoy mobility and wheel durability during rolling phases are improved, but decoy performance during triggering phases deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel set incorporates a dynamic suspension system with compressible elements that allow the wheels to adapt their characteristics based on operational phase. During rolling phases, the suspension maintains wheels in a configuration optimized for mobility, while during decoying phases, the suspension enables wheels to conform to ground irregularities and maintain optimal contact pressure for triggering explosive devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel design allows parameter changes in ground contact characteristics through the suspension system. The compressible elements enable the wheel to modify its effective hardness, contact area, and pressure distribution dynamically, transitioning between a harder, more durable configuration for rolling and a softer, more compliant configuration for decoying.
2Reliability
If earthmoving wheel sets are used in mass decoy systems, then decoy performance during triggering phases is improved, but convoy mobility and wheel durability during rolling phases deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system enables the wheel to dynamically adjust its ground interaction characteristics. During high-speed rolling phases, the suspension maintains the wheel in a stable, mobility-optimized state, while during decoying operations, it allows the wheel to become more compliant with ground surface variations, enhancing triggering effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel set design integrates multiple functions into a single system that can effectively perform both mobility functions during rolling phases and decoying functions during triggering phases. The suspension mechanism enables the same wheel to adapt its behavior to suit different operational requirements without requiring separate wheel sets for each function.
3Reliability
If suspended wheels are used to improve ground tracking, then decoy efficiency is improved, but wheel longevity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system incorporates shock-absorbing elements that cushion the wheels against impacts and ground irregularities before they can cause damage. This beforehand cushioning protects the wheel structure from the harsh conditions encountered during decoying operations, extending wheel life while maintaining ground tracking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension allows parameter changes in the wheel's mechanical stress characteristics during operation. By absorbing and distributing impact forces, the suspension reduces peak stresses on wheel components, thereby extending wheel longevity while maintaining the ground tracking necessary for decoy efficiency.
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 system provides enhanced resistance to attacks, maintains consistent ground pressure, and ensures longevity of wheels during high-speed movement, while allowing for a wide choice in wheel diameter and improved ground following capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a suspension comprising at least two compressed gas spring elements
Implementation Method 2
an elastically deformable rim; elastically deformable spokes connecting the hub to the rim
Implementation Method 3
a device for equalizing the pressures of these spring elements
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a mass decoy system for the protection of a follower vehicle, said mass decoy system comprising a chassis provided with at least one running gear (5) suitable for exerting a pressure on the ground so as to define a safe path. In this mass decoy system: the running gear (5) has a suspension comprising at least two compressed gas spring elements and a device for equalising the pressures of these spring elements; and the running gear (5) has at least one wheel (6) which comprises: - a hub (16) mounted on the chassis by means of a pivot connection (20); - an elastically deformable rim (14); - elastically deformable spokes (15) connecting the hub (16) to the rim (14); and - a tread (17) attached to the periphery of the rim (14).