Multi-Point EFP Warhead Initiation for Uniform Penetrator Formation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiple EFP warheads produce multiple penetrators through a planar detonation wave, which requires a larger main charge volume and results in less uniformly formed penetrators.
Innovation Solution
A multiple EFP warhead design with controlled detonation to create elevated pressures at multiple locations on the liner, forming and propelling multiple penetrators by constructively interfering detonation waves at specific points, using a multi-point initiation system to cut the liner into individual EFPs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a planar detonation wave is used to form multiple EFPs, then the liner can be cut into multiple penetrators, but the main charge volume becomes too large and penetrator formation becomes less uniform
Solution Approach 1:
The single planar detonation wave is segmented into multiple localized detonation zones by positioning booster charges at specific locations on the liner's back surface. Each booster charge creates a localized high-pressure zone that independently forms a penetrator, allowing multiple penetrators to be formed simultaneously without requiring a large main charge volume. This segmentation enables precise control over penetrator formation and improves uniformity across all penetrators.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a uniform planar detonation wave across the entire liner, the invention applies localized high-pressure zones at specific locations on the liner's back surface. Each location has a booster charge positioned to create elevated pressure (110-200% of normal detonation pressure) only where needed to form a penetrator. This local quality approach ensures uniform penetrator formation while reducing the overall main charge volume required.
2Manufacturing precision
If booster charges are positioned close to the liner, then penetrator formation is enhanced, but the detonation waves do not interfere sufficiently to form elevated pressure locations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention dynamically positions the liner at a specific distance from the booster charges, creating an optimal zone where detonation waves interfere constructively to form elevated pressure locations. This distance is carefully controlled to ensure that the detonation waves have sufficient time and space to interfere and create the necessary high-pressure zones (110-200% of normal pressure) while still being close enough to the liner to effectively form penetrators. The system adapts the geometry to maintain this optimal dynamic relationship.
3Productivity
If the liner is formed with multiple dimples, then multiple EFPs can be formed, but the liner complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liner is segmented into multiple dimple regions, each corresponding to a future penetrator. Instead of forming a single complex structure, the liner is divided into simpler, repeating dimple units that can be independently formed. Each dimple is a simple depressed region that will be cut by a localized detonation wave to form a penetrator. This segmentation allows multiple penetrators to be formed using a standardized, relatively simple liner geometry rather than a complex one-piece design.
Solution Approach 2:
The liner is designed with local variations in geometry (dimples) only where needed for penetrator formation, while maintaining uniformity elsewhere. Each dimple is a localized feature with specific dimensions and depth, creating the necessary volume for penetrator formation without requiring complex overall liner structure. This local quality approach enables multiple penetrators to be formed while keeping the rest of the liner structure simple and uniform.
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
This design allows for more efficient use of the main charge volume and forms penetrators that are better aerodynamically stable and uniformly shaped, with the ability to adjust penetrator formation through booster charge alignment and timing.
Implementation Method 1
An initiation system is configured for multi-point initiation of the plurality of booster charges to detonate the main charge to produce a plurality of detonation waves
Implementation Method 2
produce a plurality of detonation waves that constructively interfere at multiple locations on the back surface of the liner to cut the liner
Implementation Method 3
The enormous pressure at the front of the plane wave generated by the detonation of the explosive drives the liner in the hollow cavity inward to collapse upon its central axis to project the penetrator forward
Implementation Method 4
detonation of the explosive drives the liner in the hollow cavity inward to collapse upon its central axis
Data Source
AI summary
In a MEFP warhead detonation of the main charge is controlled to provide elevated pressure at multiple locations on the back surface of the liner to cut the liner and to form and propel forward a plurality of EFPs. An initiation system is configured for multi-point initiation of a plurality of booster charges to detonate the main charge to produce a plurality of detonation waves that constructively interfere at multiple locations on the back surface of the liner to form pressure hot spots that cut the liner and to form and propel forward a plurality of EFPs. In different embodiments, the elevated pressures are between 110% and 200% of the detonation pressure at the front of an individual detonation wave. The liner may, for example, be a flat plate or a include a plurality of dimples in which case the boosters are aligned to the center of the dimples.