Modular Barrel Weapon System Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular weapon systems lack enhanced Insensitive Munitions (IM) characteristics during handling, transport, and storage, with a risk of accidental firing and detonation, and fail to maintain recoilless characteristics across different firing options.
Innovation Solution
A modular weapon system with a divisible barrel comprising a fore part and a rear part with a countermass, interconnected via a releasable locking device, allowing for configuration of the cartridge case, propellant charge, and expansion section to achieve optimal recoilless performance and prevent shell ejection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the barrel is made as a single integrated unit, then the structural strength and sealing are improved, but the adaptability for different shell weights and propellant charges deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The barrel is divided into multiple segments that can be assembled and disassembled. The fore part contains the shell and propellant charge, while the rear part contains the countermass. This segmentation allows different combinations to be used for different firing scenarios while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrel transitions from a static integrated structure to a dynamic configurable structure. The locking device enables the barrel to be assembled into a unified structure for firing, then disassembled for transport or reconfiguration, adapting to different operational requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the weapon is assembled as a complete unit, then the operational readiness is improved, but the safety during transport and storage deteriorates due to accidental firing risk
Solution Approach 1:
The weapon system is segmented into separable parts that can be stored independently. The propellant charge and shell are in the fore part, while the countermass is in the rear part. During transport, these can be separated to eliminate the risk of accidental firing, yet can be quickly assembled when needed for operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The weapon can be prepared in advance with the fore part containing the shell and propellant, while the countermass is separately prepared in the rear part. The locking device is designed to be engaged only when ready for operation, allowing preliminary preparation without creating safety risks during transport.
3Force
If the countermass is increased to maintain recoilless characteristics with heavier shells, then the recoil control is improved, but the weapon weight deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The countermass is made configurable rather than fixed. Different countermass configurations can be used depending on the shell weight and mission requirements. This allows optimization of the countermass-to-shell weight ratio for each specific firing scenario, minimizing weapon weight while maintaining recoilless performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The countermass parameters (weight, distribution) can be changed by selecting different countermass configurations or adjusting the amount of countermass material. This allows the recoil control force to be matched to the specific shell and propellant charge being used, rather than being fixed for all scenarios.
4Force
If the barrel length is increased to accommodate expansion section, then the recoilless performance is improved, but the pack length deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The barrel is segmented so that the expansion section is contained within the rear part that holds the countermass. This allows the functional barrel length to be sufficient for recoilless performance while the overall pack length is reduced by efficient arrangement of segments and removal of unnecessary intermediate sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The expansion section is nested within the rear part of the barrel that contains the countermass. This nested arrangement allows the functional length required for expansion and recoilless performance to be achieved without increasing the overall external length of the weapon system, as the expansion occurs within the existing structural envelope.
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 safe handling and storage by preventing accidental explosions, allowing for adaptable recoilless performance with varying shell weights and propellant charges, reducing the danger zone and enabling flexible assembly and disposal, while maintaining reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
a propellant charge and a countermass
Implementation Method 2
the propellant charge of the shell be accidentally ignited
Implementation Method 3
a modular weapon system of a preloaded recoilless gun comprising a barrel provided with a shell, a propellant charge and a countermass
Data Source
AI summary
A modular weapon system of a preloaded recoilless gun including a barrel provided with a shell, a propellant charge and a countermass. The weapon system is configured in two parts including a first part of the barrel and a second part of the barrel. The first part of the barrel includes the shell and the second part of the barrel includes the propellant charge and countermass. A releasable locking device interconnects the second part of the barrel with the first part of the barrel.