Gunner Optics Ballistic Protection via Movable Shield
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern gunner optics in military vehicles are vulnerable to ballistic threats due to their sensitive optical paths and complex stabilization systems, making them prone to failure from a single hit, and existing protective measures either leave them unprotected or non-functional.
Innovation Solution
A partially transparent protective element, such as bulletproof glass, is integrated into the gunner optics housing, allowing it to be transferred between protective and rest positions to safeguard the optics while maintaining functionality, with the ability to automatically deploy protection upon threat detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If protective elements completely close off the gunner optics, then the optics are protected from ballistic threats, but the line of sight is blocked and the optics become inoperable
Solution Approach 1:
The protective element is designed to be movable between a protective position (blocking the opening) and a rest position (allowing line of sight). This dynamic configuration allows the system to switch between protection mode and operational mode, resolving the contradiction between needing protection and needing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective element includes a transparent area that is segmented from the rest of the housing structure. This transparent segment allows light to pass through while the rest of the protective element provides ballistic protection, enabling both protection and optical functionality simultaneously.
2Reliability
If the housing is designed to be protected against ballistic impacts, then the gunner optics are protected, but the opening required for line of sight creates a vulnerability
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent protective element acts as an intermediary between the opening and the external environment. It allows optical energy to pass through while providing ballistic protection, effectively mediating between the need for an open line of sight and the need for protection against ballistic threats.
3Ease of operation
If a transparent protective element is used to maintain line of sight, then the optics remain functional, but the transparent area is vulnerable to ballistic impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The protective element is made from composite materials that combine transparency with ballistic resistance. This allows the element to simultaneously provide optical functionality and protection against ballistic impacts, resolving the contradiction between maintaining line of sight and withstanding ballistic threats.
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
The solution effectively protects gunner optics from ballistic threats while minimizing impact on optical performance, ensuring functionality and reducing the likelihood of failure during combat scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
at least one protective element (7) is provided which is at least partially transparent
Implementation Method 2
the transparent area of the protective element is reinforced so that it can withstand ballistic impacts
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a gunner's sight having a housing, wherein the housing has at least one opening. The housing therefore is not arranged completely around the gunner's sight. At least one sight is arranged in the housing and its line of sight leads out from the opening. Also provided is at least one protection element which is at least partially transparent. The protection element can therefore constitute protection for the gunner's sight and can, nevertheless, guarantee the continued functioning of the gunner's sight as a result of the transparency of the protection element.