Deployable Casing Recovery Structure for Automatic Breech Cycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pellet recovery devices for large-calibre ammunition in weapons are either manually operated, which is time-consuming and not suitable for automatic loading systems, or they occupy too much space, making them incompatible with cramped environments.
Innovation Solution
A deployable structure with a single lever mechanism that automatically deploys and retracts based on the movement of the breech wedge, using a clutch assembly to synchronize with the weapon's firing sequence without additional actuators, allowing for rapid recovery of ammunition bases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a manually operated pellet recovery device is used, then the device is simple in structure, but the operation time is increased and it is not suitable for automatic loading systems
Solution Approach 1:
The recovery device employs a deployable structure with movable arms that can transition between deployed and retracted states. The arms are connected to the breech sleeve through linkages that automatically deploy the recovery bag during the return-to-battery phase and retract it subsequently, eliminating manual intervention while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes the existing motion of the breech sleeve during the return-to-battery phase to automatically deploy and retract the recovery bag. The system self-actuates through the natural cyclic movement of the breech mechanism, requiring no external power source or additional actuators
2Loss of time
If an automatically operated recovery device is used, then the operation time is reduced and it is suitable for automatic loading systems, but the device occupies too much space
Solution Approach 1:
The recovery device features a deployable structure with arms that can be folded against the breech sleeve when not in use. During the return-to-battery phase, the arms deploy to position the recovery bag for base collection, then retract to minimize volume occupation, enabling automatic operation in confined spaces
Solution Approach 2:
The movable arms and recovery bag are designed to nest within the confines of the breech sleeve assembly when retracted. The structure allows compact storage during non-operational phases while providing full functionality during base recovery operations
3Extent of automation
If a recovery device with multiple actuators is used, then the automation capability is improved, but the device complexity and cost are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The device achieves automatic operation by harnessing the existing kinetic energy and motion of the breech sleeve during the return-to-battery phase. No additional actuators are required; the system uses the natural cyclic movement of the breech mechanism to deploy and retract the recovery bag automatically
Solution Approach 2:
The breech sleeve serves multiple functions: it acts as both the ejection mechanism for spent bases and the actuating mechanism for deploying the recovery device. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate actuators while maintaining full automation capability
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for recovering pellets and a weapon equipped with such a device (1). The device (1) comprises a deployable structure (4) between a non-deployed state and a deployed state and having a pellet-receiving opening. A displacement mechanism (6, 7, 8) is arranged such that the structure (4) is automatically displaced to the deployed state when the breech wedge is displaced from its closed position to its open position during the return to battery of the weapon, and that the structure (4) is automatically displaced to the non-deployed state before arrival in battery and independently of the movement of the breech wedge.