Modular Rocket System With Interchangeable Guidance And Flight Control Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rocket-boosted projectile systems are inflexible and costly due to the need for multiple guidance and flight control systems tailored to specific rocket configurations, making them inefficient for various target types and launch platforms.
Innovation Solution
A modular, scalable rocket system with a common guidance and flight control module that can be combined with interchangeable munition and rocket modules, featuring a guidance module with a computer-based guidance system, moveable airfoils, and a rocket motor, allowing for adaptable targeting and propulsion across different configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple guidance and flight control systems are used for different rocket configurations, then each configuration can be optimized for its specific target type and launch platform, but the manufacturing and deployment costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal guidance module and flight control module that can be used across multiple rocket configurations. The guidance module includes a guidance system that can guide different munition types to various target types (surface targets, aerial targets, moving targets) using the same hardware platform. The flight control module with moveable airfoils provides consistent flight control functionality across different rocket designs, eliminating the need for configuration-specific guidance and control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The rocket system is divided into distinct modular components: a guidance module, a flight control module, and interchangeable munition modules. This segmentation allows each module to be independently designed, tested, and manufactured, then assembled into different rocket configurations based on mission requirements. The modular architecture maintains system optimization while reducing overall complexity through standardization of core subsystems.
2Reliability
If multiple specialized rocket systems are manufactured for different configurations, then each system can be optimized for its specific use case, but the manufacturing and deployment costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The universal guidance and flight control modules serve multiple munition types and launch platforms, significantly reducing the number of unique systems that must be manufactured and maintained. The standardized interfaces and modular design allow the same core systems to be produced in higher volumes for multiple applications, achieving economies of scale while maintaining optimization for specific use cases through configurable software and adjustable hardware parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter changes in the guidance and flight control modules to optimize performance for different munition types and target scenarios without requiring complete system redesign. Software configuration, control algorithms, and hardware parameters can be adjusted to match specific mission requirements, maintaining reliability across different use cases while using the same manufactured hardware platform.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a modular system with interchangeable modules is used, then flexibility in targeting and launch platforms is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rocket system is segmented into standardized modular components with defined interfaces: guidance module, flight control module, and munition modules. Each module has standardized mechanical, electrical, and data interfaces that simplify assembly and reduce the complexity of integrating different components. The segmentation allows for systematic design and testing of individual modules before integration, managing overall system complexity through structured modularity.
Solution Approach 2:
The guidance and flight control modules are combined into an integrated assembly that functions as a unified control system across different munition types. This merging reduces the number of separate systems that must be managed and integrated, simplifying the modular architecture while maintaining the flexibility to interchange munition modules. The combined module provides coordinated guidance and flight control functions that work together seamlessly across different platform configurations.
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
This modular system reduces manufacturing and deployment costs while enabling flexibility in targeting and launch platforms, allowing for efficient use across various rocket configurations and platforms, including existing launch systems.
Implementation Method 1
A rocket module is attached to the munition module and includes a rocket motor configured to propel the modular rocket system
Implementation Method 2
A flight control module is removably attachable to the guidance module and includes a plurality of airfoils, the airfoils being moveable between a retracted state and an extended state
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a modular rocket system comprises a guidance module defining a nose, the guidance module including a guidance system for guiding the modular rocket system toward a target. A flight control module is removably attachable to the guidance module and includes a plurality of airfoils, the airfoils being moveable between a retracted state and an extended state. A munition module is removably attached to the flight control module and includes a hollow interior configured to carry a payload material. A rocket module is attached to the munition module and includes a rocket motor configured to propel the modular rocket system. In a further aspect, a modular rocket system having a plurality of interchangeable modules is provided.