Deployable Net RPG Protection System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current countermeasure systems are ineffective and expensive in protecting vehicles from Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs), as they either fail to deflect or destroy the threat, and existing solutions are complex and unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A net deployment system that includes a manifold assembly with weight ducts and a bladder, which deploys a net in the path of an incoming threat using inflator charges to disarm the RPG by collapsing its fuse and preventing detonation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If heavy armor plating is used on vehicles, then protection strength is improved, but vehicle weight increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protection system is divided into separate functional components: a deployable net barrier for RPG interception, individual vehicle armor plating, and separate protective equipment for occupants. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the net provides RPG protection without adding bulk to the vehicle structure, while armor plating can be applied only where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The net barrier is deployed in advance before RPG impact occurs, creating a protective zone ahead of the vehicle. This preliminary deployment intercepts the RPG threat before it can reach the vehicle, eliminating the need for the vehicle itself to bear the full brunt of the impact force.
2Reliability
If complex interception systems are deployed, then threat destruction capability is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The net barrier is designed as a simple, inexpensive, single-use protective element. When deployed, it performs its function of intercepting the RPG and collapsing the fuse, then is discarded along with the spent RPG. This eliminates the need for complex reusable interception systems, reducing both cost and complexity while maintaining effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The net barrier acts as an intermediary element between the incoming RPG threat and the vehicle. It absorbs the impact and fuse collapse function, protecting the vehicle without requiring the vehicle's own systems to actively intercept or destroy the threat. This passive intermediary approach simplifies the overall system while maintaining protection capability.
3Reliability
If active countermeasure systems are installed, then protection effectiveness is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The net barrier system is designed to be self-deploying through a simple mechanical release mechanism activated by RPG impact. The net automatically deploys from its stowed position on the vehicle exterior when threatened, eliminating the need for complex active control systems, sensors, or manual intervention. This self-service approach dramatically simplifies installation while maintaining protection effectiveness.
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 a reliable, inexpensive, and easy-to-install protection for vehicles by deploying a net to disarm RPGs, effectively preventing penetration and detonation, thus enhancing vehicle safety.
Implementation Method 1
At least one inflator charge is associated with the manifold for inflating the bladder and firing the weights out of the weight ducts to deploy the net in the path of an incoming threat
Implementation Method 2
firing the weights out of the weight ducts to deploy the net in the path of an incoming threat
Implementation Method 3
designed to disarm the threat... deploy the net in the path of an incoming threat... effectively preventing penetration and detonation
Data Source
AI summary
A net deployment system which, in one example, includes a manifold assembly including multiple weight ducts and a bladder port. A weight is disposed in each weight duct and each weight is tied to the net. A bladder is behind the net and is over the bladder port. At least one inflator charge is associated with the manifold for inflating the bladder and firing the weights out of the weight ducts to deploy the net in the path of an incoming threat.