Deployable Support Member for Military Vehicle Ballistic Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Military vehicles with smaller or limited suspension systems are unable to perform ballistic operations effectively due to instability, which can compromise the accuracy of launched ammunition and risk damage to the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A stabilization system that includes a support member configured to transition between a tucked and a deployed position, engaging the ground surface to provide additional stability, utilizing a primary mover to adjustably drive the support member and pivotally coupled linkages to stabilize the vehicle during ballistic operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a military vehicle uses a smaller or limited suspension system, then the vehicle's size and weight are reduced, but the vehicle cannot perform ballistic operations effectively due to instability
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is designed to be dynamically deployable, transitioning between a tucked position during transport and a deployed position during ballistic operations. This dynamic configuration allows the vehicle to maintain stability only when needed, rather than permanently increasing its size or weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The support member extends vertically downward from the vehicle's underside to engage the ground surface, adding a vertical dimension of stabilization. This creates a fourth point of contact with the ground, supplementing the vehicle's suspension system without requiring lateral expansion or additional vehicle mass.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the vehicle lowers to engage the support member with the ground, then stability during ballistic operations is improved, but the vehicle's mobility and operational flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support member system is designed as a dynamic, selectively deployable mechanism rather than a fixed structure. The vehicle can transition between operational modes (transport vs. ballistic operations) by deploying or retracting the support member, maintaining mobility while providing stability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The support member serves multiple functions: it provides ground engagement for stability during ballistic operations, can be tucked away during transport to maintain mobility, and works in conjunction with the vehicle's existing suspension system. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between stability and mobility.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a support member is added to provide ground engagement, then additional stability is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is integrated with the vehicle's existing suspension system and body structure. The support member couples to the vehicle body and works in conjunction with the suspension system, merging functions rather than adding a completely separate stabilization system.
Solution Approach 2:
The support member is designed to work with the vehicle's existing suspension and propulsion systems, serving as a supplemental stabilization mechanism rather than requiring entirely new subsystems. This multi-functional integration minimizes added complexity while achieving the stability goal.
Data Source
AI summary
A stabilization system for an adjustable ride height military vehicle includes a support member fixedly coupled with an underside of the military vehicle and extending in a downwards direction from the underside of the military vehicle. The support member is configured to engage a ground surface directly below the military vehicle when the military vehicle lowers from a first position to a second position. The support member is configured to provide additional stability for the military vehicle during a ballistics operation through the engagement between the support member and the ground surface when the military vehicle is lowered to the second position.