Launch Activation Simulator for Safe VLS End-to-End Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ordnance simulators are inadequate for end-to-end validation of the Mark 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS), as they fail to provide the necessary simulation for full shipboard system validation and cannot access the required data or operate effectively in the requisite testing environment.
Innovation Solution
The development of an electronic device, ICV-Lite, which connects to a launch controller and an ordnance controller, simulating launch activation of a missile by manipulating signals, injecting simulated loads, and performing signal processor calculations, thereby enabling safe verification and calibration of launching systems without the risk of inadvertent firings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional ordnance simulators are used, then basic simulation functionality is provided, but end-to-end validation of the VLS cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The simulator is designed with multiple communication interfaces (serial, parallel, Ethernet) and protocols to interface with various launch controllers and ordnance controllers, enabling it to perform multiple validation functions including signal manipulation, load injection, and ballistic data calculation across different system configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The simulator acts as an intermediary device positioned between the launch controller and ordnance controller, manipulating signals and injecting simulated loads to enable end-to-end validation without requiring actual ordnance, thus bridging the gap between control systems and launch systems
2Reliability
If full system validation is performed, then comprehensive verification is achieved, but risk of inadvertent firings increases
Solution Approach 1:
The simulator creates a virtual copy of the ordnance system through software modeling of missile behavior, allowing comprehensive system validation to be performed on this safe copy rather than on actual ordnance, thereby eliminating the risk of inadvertent firings while maintaining validation effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
By positioning the simulator as an intermediary that intercepts and manipulates signals between the launch controller and ordnance controller, the system can perform full validation sequences without signals reaching actual ordnance, thus verifying system functionality while preventing harmful effects
3Measurement precision
If signal manipulation and load injection are implemented, then accurate simulation is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The simulator replaces complex physical ordnance systems with electronic and software-based signal manipulation mechanisms, using digital signal processing and software modeling to achieve accurate simulation of missile behavior without the complexity of physical ordnance systems
Solution Approach 2:
A single integrated circuit board performs multiple functions including signal manipulation, load injection, protocol handling, and ballistic data calculation, reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate devices for each function while maintaining high simulation 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 ICV-Lite device facilitates end-to-end validation of the VLS by providing objective quality evidence for system continuity, communication between external systems and rockets, and proper ballistic data calculation, thus enabling safe and effective verification and calibration of launching protocols.
Implementation Method 1
The circuit board (440) having a voltage regulator (570, 580)
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device (210) is provided for simulating launch activation of a missile. The missile has a rocket motor and a payload. The device connects to a launch controller (380) for the motor and an ordnance controller (390). The device includes a direct current (DC) power supply (220); a circuit board (440); a payload jack (340); and data jacks (350, 360). The circuit board (440) includes a voltage regulator (570, 580), a thrust vector control (TVC) circuit (510), input, output and power plugs (550, 560, 590). The power plug (590) connects to the power supply (220). The payload jack (340) connects the output plug (560) to the ordnance controller (390) and to the TVC circuit (510). The output data jack (350) connects the circuit board (440) to the ordnance controller (390). The input data jack (360) connects the circuit board (440) to the launch controller (380). The circuit board (440) receives a signal from the launch controller (380) to which said ordnance controller (390) responds.