Hose Level Weapon Barrel Inclination Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for determining the inclination and canting of a weapon barrel, such as grenade launchers, are complex, time-consuming, and lack accuracy, with existing devices offering poor readability and bulky transport.
Innovation Solution
A hose level measuring system comprising two tubular parts connected at the top and bottom of the weapon barrel, partially filled with a liquid, allows for precise inclination and canting measurement through a transparent scale, with adjustable tube diameters and configurations for enhanced accuracy and readability, including self-luminous liquids and bubble level compensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a cord with markings or dragonfly level is used for leveling, then the weapon barrel can be leveled accurately, but the operation becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the leveling function into two independent tubular indicators that can be read simultaneously, allowing both elevation and cant to be determined at the same time rather than sequentially, thus reducing the time required while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical leveling systems (dragonfly levels, cord measurements) with a simplified liquid-based indicator system where the liquid level automatically indicates the correct alignment, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual adjustments
2Measurement precision
If sighting optics with dragonfly level are used, then accurate leveling is achieved, but the device becomes bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential leveling function from complex sighting optics and dragonfly levels, retaining only the critical liquid level indication mechanism. This simplified system provides accurate elevation and cant measurements without the unnecessary complexity of full optical systems
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs multiple functions (elevation measurement, cant measurement, and alignment verification) through a single integrated structure with two tubular indicators, eliminating the need for separate sighting optics and leveling devices
3Measurement precision
If a cord-based triangle method is used for elevation, then the required firing angle can be determined, but the readability is poor and accuracy is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses contrasting colors (dark liquid in light-colored tubes or vice versa) to maximize the visibility of the liquid level position. This enhances readability allowing the user to quickly and accurately determine the firing angle without the poor readability issues of cord-based methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the cord-based triangle measurement system with a direct liquid level indication system that provides clear, easy-to-read measurements. The liquid automatically rises to indicate the correct elevation angle, eliminating the need for complex triangle calculations and improving both readability and accuracy
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 system provides improved accuracy and quick readability of the inclination and canting angles, independent of ground inclination or vehicle position, with increased sensitivity and accuracy through adjustable tube diameters and configurations, enabling precise aiming.
Implementation Method 1
a hose level measuring system (working according to the hose principle), which consists of two spaced, tubular parts which extend in the axial direction of the weapon barrel and which, seen in the firing direction of the weapon barrel, are connected to each other at the top and bottom
Implementation Method 2
inclination errors can be compensated for with the aid of a bubble level arranged on the housing
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~5
Figure 6a~7b
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (2; 2') that can be fastened to the weapon barrel (1) of a large-caliber weapon, in particular a grenade launcher, in particular for determining the inclination of the weapon barrel (1) during laying. In order to be able to quickly and accurately set the angle of inclination of the weapon barrel (1) in a simple manner, according to the invention, the device (2; 2') comprises at least one measuring system (4; 4') corresponding to a hose water level measuring system, which consists of two spaced tubular parts (6, 6'; 6") extending in the axial direction of the weapon barrel (1) that are connected to each other at the upper and lower sides. The two communicating tubular parts (6, 6'; 6") of the measuring system (4; 4') are partially filled with a first liquid (7), wherein at least one of the two tubular parts (6) comprises a transparent region for monitoring the position of the liquid level (9), said region being readable from a measuring scale (10).