Modular Rocket Assist for Adjustable Artillery Shell Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artillery shell systems lack flexibility in range extension, as prior art rocket assist systems are fixedly mounted to the exterior, limiting the ability to change the range and payload without altering the shell design.
Innovation Solution
A modular rocket assist device with a reversible engagement mechanism, allowing the range extension device to be detachably attached to the artillery shell, with a portion extending into the payload cavity, enabling independent control of propellant composition and burn profile in multiple regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the rocket assist device is fixedly mounted to the exterior of the shell, then the shell structure is simple, but the range and payload cannot be adjusted without altering the shell design
Solution Approach 1:
The rocket assist device is divided into a first region (exterior mounting portion) and a second region (interior extension portion), allowing the propellant mass to be segmented between these two regions. This segmentation enables independent adjustment of propellant composition and burn profile in each region while maintaining a relatively simple engagement mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The second region of the range extension device extends into the payload cavity of the shell, effectively nesting the rocket assist propellant within the shell's interior space. This nesting approach allows increased propellant mass without extending the exterior dimensions of the shell, preserving aerodynamic efficiency while enhancing range capability.
2Quantity of substance
If more rocket propellant mass is used to extend range, then the range increases, but the shell length must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The second region of the range extension device is received within the payload cavity of the shell, nesting the additional propellant mass inside the existing shell structure. This allows increased propellant mass without increasing the exterior length or diameter of the shell, maintaining aerodynamic properties while extending range capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of increasing propellant mass by extending the shell in one dimension (length), the invention utilizes the interior payload cavity space, effectively using the shell's internal volume in a different spatial arrangement. This dimensional reconfiguration allows more propellant without increasing exterior dimensions.
3Quantity of substance
If the second region extends into the payload cavity, then greater propellant mass is accommodated, but the payload cavity space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The propellant is segmented into two regions: the first region in the exterior mounting portion and the second region extending into the payload cavity. This segmentation allows the propellant mass to be distributed in a way that utilizes the payload cavity space efficiently, accommodating greater total propellant mass while maintaining some payload cavity volume for essential functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The payload cavity serves multiple functions: it accommodates the second region of the rocket assist device for extended propellant mass, and still retains sufficient volume for payload placement and shell structural integrity. This multi-functionality resolves the conflict between propellant mass and payload cavity volume.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the range extension device is reversibly engaged, then on-site adjustment of range and payload is enabled, but the engagement mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement mechanism transitions from a fixed, static mounting to a reversible, dynamic connection between the range extension device and the shell. This dynamic engagement allows the system to be configured and reconfigured on-site for different tactical requirements, providing adaptability while using relatively simple mechanical means such as threaded or bayonet fittings.
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 on-site adjustment of projectile range and payload type, enhancing tactical flexibility and aerodynamic efficiency by allowing modular expansion of propellant mass within the shell, while preserving shell aerodynamics.
Implementation Method 1
the range extension device comprises at least one energetic material charge
Implementation Method 2
an igniter
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an improved range extension device, particularly to a modular rocket assist device.A range extension device, capable in use of being reversibly engaged to a body of an artillery carrier shell, said shell comprising a payload cavity, said range extension device comprising an internal cavity comprising at least one energetic material charge, and an igniter, wherein the range extension device comprises a first region with an aperture which faces rearwardly, and second region with a closed end, wherein the closed end in use extends into the payload cavity of the carrier shell.