Interlocking Obturator Ring Segments for Predictable Projectile Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing obturators often fail to release predictably from projectiles after launch, causing drag, weight imbalance, and reduced range and accuracy due to incomplete separation and potential failure to seal effectively.
Innovation Solution
A self-locking obturator ring formed of interlocking segments that create a gas seal within a launch tube and separate predictably into uniform pieces upon exit, restricting circumferential movement while allowing radial expansion to ensure a tight seal and controlled separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the obturator is made as a single continuous ring, then the gas seal effectiveness is improved, but the reliability of separation from the projectile deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The obturator ring is divided into multiple discrete segments (typically 2-4 segments) that are connected by flexible joints. Each segment can independently expand radially and separate from the projectile, while the segments remain connected to maintain gas seal integrity during launch. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing both effective sealing and reliable separation.
2Reliability
If the obturator segments are tightly connected to maintain ring integrity, then the gas seal is improved, but the ability of segments to separate radially outward deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting joints between segments are designed with dynamic characteristics that allow restricted movement. The joints maintain sufficient constraint to preserve ring integrity and gas sealing during the high-pressure launch phase, but permit radial outward separation when the obturator exits the launch tube. This dynamic connection resolves the contradiction between seal integrity and separation capability.
3Ease of operation
If the obturator segments are allowed to move independently, then the separation predictability is improved, but the gas seal uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the obturator into multiple identical or similar segments with standardized connecting features, the system achieves predictable separation behavior. Each segment follows the same separation pattern, ensuring uniform distribution of segments behind the projectile and maintaining balanced aerodynamic characteristics.
4Ease of manufacture
If the obturator uses simple connected segments, then the manufacturing complexity is reduced, but the gas seal effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting joints incorporate flexible elements (such as bellows, hinges, or flexible membranes) that enable the segmented structure to maintain gas seal effectiveness comparable to a continuous ring. These flexible connections accommodate radial expansion and pressure variations while preserving sealing integrity, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and seal effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
An obturator can be secured to a projectile to be launched from within a launch tube. The obturator cooperates with the projectile to seal a pressurized gas within the launch tube during launch. The obturator has a plurality of segments that combine to form a ring. Each segment has connecting features that cooperate with corresponding connecting features of an adjacent segment to hold the segments together by restricting relative circumferential movement, without restricting radially outward movement of individual segments. Preferably, each segment is identical, making it easier to repair and assemble the obturator. Upon launch, the obturator segments can move radially outwardly to separate into relatively small, uniformly-sized pieces.