Fast Action Impulse Thruster for Projectile Trajectory Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing long-range projectiles face limitations in range and accuracy due to fixed trajectories and aerodynamic issues, leading to extended engagement times and increased risks for combatants.
Innovation Solution
A fast action impulse thruster system is integrated into projectiles, comprising a guidance system and energetics assembly that ejects a mass at high velocity to alter trajectory quickly, unaffected by rotational velocity, enhancing accuracy and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional aerodynamic control surfaces are used to improve accuracy, then trajectory control is improved, but device complexity and weight increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional aerodynamic control surfaces (mechanical system) with a magnetic guidance system that uses magnetic fields to control projectile trajectory. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical moving parts while achieving precise trajectory control through magnetic actuation of a controllable magnet within the projectile.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from aerodynamic forces (dependent on projectile orientation and surface area) to magnetic field interactions. By controlling the position and orientation of a magnet within the projectile using electromagnetic actuation, the system achieves trajectory control through parameter changes in the magnetic field rather than through mechanical surface adjustments.
2Measurement precision
If aerodynamic control surfaces are added to improve accuracy, then trajectory direction is improved, but drag increases and range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces aerodynamic control surfaces that create drag with a magnetic field-based control system. The magnetic guidance system exerts forces on the projectile through magnetic field interactions without requiring physical surfaces that would increase aerodynamic drag, thus maintaining energy efficiency while achieving trajectory control.
3Measurement precision
If conventional guidance systems are used to improve accuracy, then targeting precision is improved, but reaction time is insufficient for high rotational velocities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical control surfaces with electromagnetic actuation of a controllable magnet. The electromagnetic system can respond instantaneously to guidance commands regardless of the projectile's rotational velocity, eliminating the reaction time delays inherent in mechanical systems that struggle to keep up with high-speed rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs continuous electromagnetic actuation that can adjust the magnetic field position and orientation at any moment during flight, rather than relying on periodic mechanical adjustments. This allows the system to counteract trajectory deviations at any point in the projectile's rotation cycle, effectively eliminating reaction time limitations.
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 significantly improves the projectile's ability to reach targets with increased accuracy and reduced complexity, extending the range while minimizing torque and drag, thus reducing the need for multiple launches and enhancing combat efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The impulse force may be achieved by ejecting at least one mass from the projectile at high velocity such that a resulting momentum exchange may alter the trajectory of the projectile
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for a fast action impulse thruster according to various aspects of the present invention may comprise a projectile comprising an impulse thruster system. The impulse thruster system may comprise a guidance system and a fast action impulse thruster system. The guidance system may control the trajectory of the projectile, for example by activating the fast action impulse thruster system to adjust the projectile's trajectory. The fast action impulse thruster system may be configured such that it may provide an impulse force to guide the projectile with a reaction time that is not affected by the rotational velocity of the projectile. The impulse force may be achieved by ejecting at least one mass from the projectile at high velocity such that a resulting momentum exchange may alter the trajectory of the projectile. The fast action impulse thruster system may also be configured in such a way so as to provide a significant improvement to the overall safety during the production, assembly, and handling of the projectile.