Projectile Fuse Programming Device Using Segmented Induction Coils

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing projectile fuse programming devices require oversized control electronics and suffer from high electromagnetic losses and complex coil structures due to the need for substantial, energy-consuming coils to maintain optimal coupling during translational movement, leading to inefficiencies and increased energy consumption.

Innovation Solution

A programming device with multiple elementary coils encircling ferrite cores parallel to the corridor axis, distributed along several lines, and powered successively as the projectile advances, using position sensors to ensure optimal coupling and reduce energy consumption by only powering coils in the best position relative to the fuse.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a single programming coil is used to program the fuse during projectile rotation in the feed star, then the fuse can be programmed during forward movement, but the control electronics become oversized and energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefuse programming capabilityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The single programming coil is divided into multiple elementary coils arranged in parallel lines along the corridor. Each coil covers a specific segment of the corridor, allowing the system to use only the necessary coil(s) at any given time, thereby reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining programming capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically activates only the coil(s) that are currently in the best position relative to the fuse, based on real-time detection of the fuse's axial position. This dynamic activation strategy ensures optimal coupling efficiency while minimizing energy consumption by keeping inactive coils unpowered.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a single programming coil is positioned to cover the length of the corridor, then the fuse can be programmed during translational movement, but the coil size becomes substantial and electromagnetic losses increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprogramming during translational movementVSAvoidelectromagnetic losses
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using one large coil to cover the entire corridor length, the system segments the corridor into multiple zones, each served by a separate elementary coil. This segmentation allows each coil to be smaller and more efficient, reducing electromagnetic losses while collectively providing coverage throughout the corridor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each elementary coil is optimized for its specific local position in the corridor, with its size and positioning tailored to the local requirements. This local optimization ensures that each coil operates at peak efficiency for its specific zone, minimizing unnecessary electromagnetic radiation and energy loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If multiple coils are arranged side by side to cover the corridor length, then the fuse can be constantly faced by a coil during translation, but the structure becomes complicated and manufacturing difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconstant coil/fuse couplingVSAvoidcoil assembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The programming system is segmented into multiple independent elementary coils that can be manufactured and assembled separately. Each coil is a simple, standardized component that can be produced using conventional techniques, avoiding the complexity of manufacturing a single large coil or complex integrated structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple elementary coils are combined to form the complete programming system, with each coil working in conjunction with the others. This modular combination approach simplifies manufacturing by allowing each coil to be produced independently using standard processes, while the collective system provides the comprehensive coverage needed for reliable programming.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Use of energy by moving object

If coils are arranged in parallel lines with longitudinal staggering, then the number of active coils is reduced, but the magnetic field distribution becomes non-uniform

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoidmagnetic field uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses preliminary detection of the fuse's axial position to determine which coil(s) should be activated. This preliminary action ensures that only the appropriate coil(s) are powered at any given time, optimizing the balance between energy consumption and maintaining sufficient magnetic field strength for reliable programming.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts the activation parameters of the coils based on the fuse's position. By changing which coils are active and adjusting their power levels according to real-time position data, the system maintains optimal magnetic field distribution while minimizing energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 configuration optimizes energy usage and reduces electromagnetic losses by ensuring efficient induction coupling and minimizing the number of active coils, resulting in a more compact and energy-efficient programming system.

Implementation Method 1

at least one programming coil (2) transmitting a programming signal by induction to receiver means (6) integral with the fuse (5)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the coils being made in the form of several elementary coils (2) each encircling a ferrite core (7)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFerromagnetism: Ferromagnetism

Data Source

PatentUS8490533B2Programming device for the fuse of a projectile
Publication Date: 2013.07.23 KNDS AMMO FRANCE
  • US8490533B2 patent drawing
  • US8490533B2 patent drawing
  • US8490533B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A programming device for the fuse of a projectile using programming coils transmitting a programming signal by induction to a receiver integral with the fuse, wherein the programming coils are integral with a substantially cylindrical wall of a corridor in which the projectile translates axially, the programming coils being made in the form of several elementary coils each encircling a ferrite core parallel to the axis of the corridor, the coils being distributed along several lines parallel to the corridor axis, the coils of one line being longitudinally staggered with respect to the coils of the neighboring line or lines.