Launcher Cover Damage Detection via Optical Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing launcher batteries face issues with rapid firing sequences due to the risk of cover damage from rocket exit jets or debris, which complicates accurate targeting and requires manual or visual inspection, limiting the ability to perform quick successive firings.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a light-detection device within each launch tube, utilizing sensor elements or optical waveguides connected to a control and display system, to automatically assess cover damage by detecting light incidence, allowing for immediate determination of damaged tubes and enabling or prohibiting further firing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual or visual inspection methods are used to detect cover damage, then detection capability is provided, but rapid firing sequences cannot be performed due to time-consuming inspection requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated optical detection system using light-sensitive sensor elements installed in each launch tube. This substitution eliminates the time-consuming manual inspection process while maintaining reliable damage detection, thereby enabling rapid firing sequences to proceed without interruption when covers remain intact.
Solution Approach 2:
The light-sensitive sensor elements are pre-installed in each launch tube before firing operations begin. This preliminary setup ensures that damage detection is already in place and operational, eliminating the need for post-firing inspection delays and enabling immediate detection of cover damage during or after rapid firing sequences.
2Reliability
If external camera systems are used for visual inspection, then detection capability is provided, but the system complexity and operational burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the detection function directly into the launch tube structure by installing light-sensitive sensor elements within each tube. This merging of detection functionality with the existing launch tube infrastructure eliminates the need for separate external camera systems and complex inspection equipment, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable damage detection.
Solution Approach 2:
Each launch tube becomes self-monitoring through the integrated light-sensitive sensor element that automatically detects cover damage without requiring external inspection equipment or operator intervention. This self-service capability simplifies the overall system by eliminating complex external monitoring infrastructure.
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
Enables rapid and accurate detection of cover damage, allowing for uninterrupted quick firing sequences when covers are undamaged, thereby enhancing operational safety and efficiency by automating the assessment process.
Implementation Method 1
the device being designed to detect light incident on the respective launch tube resulting from damage to the cover
Implementation Method 2
an optical waveguide in each launch tube, which is connected to a sensor element that detects incident light
Data Source
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AI summary
Launching device for firing ammunition (6) or combat equipment equipped with ignition devices, comprising several launching tubes (5) grouped together to form a launching battery (4), each loaded with ammunition (6) or combat equipment, and each closed with a cover (8), wherein a device (10) is provided for detecting damage to the covers (8) closing the launching tubes (5).