Fuze Arming Circuit Using Graduated Setback Sensing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuze arming systems in munitions fail to reliably detect setback events before the power source is activated, limiting design flexibility and safety features, particularly for electronic fuzing across various munition types.
Innovation Solution
A fuze arming system utilizing a solid-state sensor, such as a piezoelectric or magnetostrictive sensor, generates a graduated output proportional to setback events, allowing early arming and programming of the fuze without requiring a separate power source, and includes a capacitor, comparator, and rectifier to verify and enhance safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electronic sensors are used to detect setback events, then measurement precision is improved, but reliability deteriorates because the sensors cannot operate before the power source is activated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using a mechanical sensor system that detects setback events before the electronic power source is activated. The mechanical sensor generates a physical signal (such as displacement or force) in response to setback, which is then converted to an electrical signal after power is available. This allows the system to detect and record setback events independently of the electronic power supply timing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary mechanism to bridge the gap between mechanical setback detection and electronic signal processing. A mechanical sensor or transducer acts as an intermediary that converts mechanical setback events into signals that can be processed by the electronic system once power is available. This intermediary allows the detection function to operate independently of the electronic power supply.
2Reliability
If mechanical fuzes are used to detect setback, then reliability is improved, but design flexibility deteriorates due to limited integration with electronic systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges mechanical setback detection mechanisms with electronic fuze systems by integrating a mechanical sensor that generates electrical signals compatible with electronic processing. This combination allows the robust mechanical detection reliability to be combined with the flexibility and programmability of electronic fuzes, creating a hybrid system that leverages the strengths of both approaches.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal detection mechanism that can interface with both mechanical and electronic systems. The sensor system is designed to generate signals that can be processed by electronic circuits, enabling the same mechanism to serve both mechanical fuze functions and electronic fuze functions, thereby increasing design flexibility across different munition types.
3Reliability
If power source activation is delayed until after setback, then safety is improved, but loss of time increases due to delayed arming capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the mechanical sensor detect and prepare the arming signal before the power source is fully activated. The setback detection occurs independently of power availability, and the system is designed to process this information as soon as power becomes available, minimizing the time loss while maintaining safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback mechanisms to ensure that the power source activation timing is coordinated with the setback detection. The system monitors power availability and triggers the arming sequence at the optimal moment, using feedback from the power system to timing the arming action, thereby minimizing delays while maintaining safety.
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
Enables reliable detection of setback events before power activation, providing a robust safety feature and increased design flexibility for electronic fuzing across a wide range of munitions, including artillery shells and small arms munitions.
Implementation Method 1
A fuze arming system utilizing a solid-state sensor, such as a piezoelectric or magnetostrictive sensor, generates a graduated output proportional to setback events
Implementation Method 2
A fuze arming system utilizing a solid-state sensor, such as a piezoelectric or magnetostrictive sensor, generates a graduated output proportional to setback events
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a fuze arming system for a munition, comprising: an arming circuit arranged to detect a setback event and, in response to the setback event, generate a signal indicating that an arming event has occurred, wherein the arming circuit comprises a sensor configured to produce a graduated output when the setback event occurs, and fuze arming system is arranged to use that graduated output.