Dual-Mode Turret Locking Mechanism for Manual and Remote Operation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weapon turret systems either require operators to be physically exposed for manual operation or are overly complex and costly for precision applications, lacking a balance between manual and remote operation with situational awareness for suppressive fire scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode turret system with a motor-driven base, a locking apparatus, and a controller allowing manual or remote operation, enabling the turret and weapon to be positioned and adjusted manually or automatically, with a video camera for situational awareness and remote operation from within a vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a fully automated precision weapon system is used, then targeting accuracy and automated tracking are improved, but system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two independent operational modes: manual mode where the operator directly controls the weapon, and automated mode where the computer-controlled system autonomously tracks and engages targets. This segmentation allows the system to provide precision when needed without permanently maintaining the complexity of a fully automated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between manual and automated operation modes based on operational requirements. The operator can engage the automated mode when precision targeting is needed and switch to manual mode for suppressive fire or when automated systems are not required, making the system adaptable rather than statically complex.
2Ease of operation
If manual operation is used, then operator control and flexibility are maintained, but the operator must be physically exposed to enemy fire
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system that allows the operator to control the weapon remotely from within the vehicle. The operator uses controls inside the vehicle to activate the computer-controlled automated mode, which then positions and fires the weapon without the operator being physically exposed to enemy fire while maintaining operational control.
3Measurement precision
If automated precision systems are used, then targeted accuracy is improved, but situational awareness and battlefield survey capability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can conduct precision target acquisition and engagement when automated mode is activated, while also maintaining the capability for manual operation and providing situational awareness through the operator's direct observation and control. The system can switch between these functions based on operational needs, ensuring both precision capability and situational awareness are available when required.
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
Provides a cost-effective, flexible, and situational awareness-enhanced suppressive fire capability without the complexity and expense of precision targeting systems, allowing safe operation from within a vehicle while maintaining flexibility for both manual and remote control.
Implementation Method 1
a turret base rotatable by a motor drive of the turret system
Implementation Method 2
a locking apparatus that when engaged prevents the mounting cylinder from rotating independently of the cylindrical sleeve
Data Source
AI summary
A dual-mode turret system includes a turret base operable by a motor drive of the turret system, a cylindrical sleeve secured to the turret base, a mounting cylinder disposed in the cylindrical sleeve, and a frame secured to the mounting cylinder, wherein the frame is adapted to hold a weapon. The dual-mode turret system also includes a locking apparatus that when engaged prevents the mounting cylinder from rotating independently of the cylindrical sleeve, a controller, and an input device coupled to the controller. Rotation of the frame is manually adjustable when the locking apparatus is disengaged, and the rotation of the frame is adjusted by the controller in response to commands received from the input device when the locking apparatus is engaged.