Modular Aiming System for Rapid Reconfiguration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing targeting platforms are limited to predefined uses and lack flexibility in operational scenarios, requiring adaptation to diverse environments and situations.

Innovation Solution

A modular aiming system comprising effector, aiming, and carrier modules, each designed for detachable connection via standardized interfaces, allowing rapid reconfiguration and adaptation to various operational scenarios, including portable and stationary applications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If targeting platforms are designed for specific predefined uses with individual defined effectors and sensors, then the system is optimized for that specific application, but the system lacks flexibility and cannot be adapted to different operational scenarios

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to operational scenariosVSAvoidsystem configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The targeting platform is divided into modular components including effector modules, aiming module, carrier module, and operating device that can be independently configured and combined. Each module can be selectively mounted or dismounted to adapt to different operational scenarios without redesigning the entire system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs universal interfaces and standardized mounting mechanisms that allow the same core platform to support multiple types of effectors and sensors. The carrier module can accommodate various effector modules through standardized interfaces, enabling one platform to perform multiple functions across different applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Stability of the object's composition

If the targeting system is designed as an integrated unit for specific applications, then the system achieves reliable operation in that context, but the system becomes immobile and difficult to transport to different locations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem operational stabilityVSAvoidportability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system is segmented into separate modules (effector module, aiming module, carrier module, operating device) that can be transported independently and assembled at the deployment location. This allows the system to be moved to different locations while maintaining operational stability when assembled.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Modules are pre-configured and pre-tested independently before deployment. The quick-connect interfaces allow for rapid assembly that preserves system stability without requiring complex on-site integration procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the system uses standardized detachable interfaces for modular components, then the system enables rapid reconfiguration and adaptability, but the connection reliability and precision may be compromised compared to permanent integrations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconfiguration flexibilityVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The detachable interfaces are pre-engineered with alignment features and precision-machined mating surfaces that ensure reliable and accurate connections. Quick-connect mechanisms incorporate preliminary alignment and self-centering features that maintain connection reliability despite the detachable nature.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates electrical and data connections alongside mechanical mounting interfaces. These additional connection types provide redundant reliability through multiple connection pathways, compensating for the inherent limitations of detachable mechanical interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP4242574B1Modular pointing system
Publication Date: 2025.06.25 MBDA DEUTSCHIAND GMBH
  • EP4242574B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3

AI summary

A modular aiming system (10) comprises several effector modules (1), each configured to detect and/or act upon a target, wherein each effector module is assigned an effector type along with associated functional options; an aiming module (2), which is configured to selectively hold one of the effector modules and align it with the target; a carrier module (3), which is configured to carry the aiming module on a structure, on a vehicle and/or on a surface, wherein the effector modules, the aiming module and the carrier module are each configured as individual components that can be carried by a person and are designed to be repeatedly and detachably assembled together via respective module interfaces;and an operating device which is designed to be coupled to the direction module for controlling the effector module via a data interface, wherein the operating device is designed to recognize the effector type of the effector module held by the direction module via the data interface and to release the associated function options for an operator.