Deployable Wing Range Extension Unit for Mortar Bombs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Unguided ground-launched projectiles lack accuracy and range, relying heavily on the skill of the launcher, and existing guidance systems do not effectively extend the range of guided mortar bombs.
Innovation Solution
A range extension unit with deployable wings that can be attached to guided mortar bombs, providing aerodynamic lift and transitioning between retracted and deployed states to extend the range and improve accuracy by positioning the center of gravity close to the aerodynamic center, eliminating the need for tailfins and enhancing lift-to-drag ratio.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a range extension unit with deployable wings is attached to a guided mortar bomb, then the range and accuracy are extended/improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wings are designed to be deployable rather than fixed, allowing them to transition between retracted and deployed states. This dynamic configuration enables the system to achieve extended range and improved accuracy when needed, while maintaining a simpler effective profile during other phases of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The range extension unit is designed as a separate attachable module that can be coupled to the guided mortar bomb. This segmentation allows the lift-generating functionality to be added only when required, without permanently increasing the complexity of the base projectile system.
2Length of moving object
If the wings are deployed to generate aerodynamic lift, then the range is extended, but the aerodynamic drag increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wings transition between retracted and deployed states based on flight phase requirements. During cruise or glide phases where range extension is beneficial, the wings are deployed to generate lift. During phases where drag minimization is critical, the wings can be retracted, dynamically optimizing the trade-off between range and energy loss.
3Measurement precision
If the center of gravity is positioned close to the aerodynamic center of the wing, then the accuracy is improved, but the stability control becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The guidance system incorporates feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor the projectile's attitude and trajectory. This feedback enables real-time adjustments to counteract the challenges posed by the close CG-aerodynamic center positioning, maintaining accuracy while managing stability control through active correction rather than passive design alone.
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
The solution significantly increases the effective range and accuracy of guided mortar bombs by generating necessary lift without excessive pitching moments, allowing for precise targeting and extended range capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
When attached, the range extension unit adds aerodynamic lift to the GMB to extend/increase the range of the GMB
Implementation Method 2
the housing interface, when coupled to the mortar bomb, collectively form an aerodynamically shaped body with the mortar bomb
Data Source
AI summary
A range extension unit extends the range of a guided mortar bomb. The range extension unit includes a housing interface defining an internal cup that receives a rear portion of a guided mortar bomb, wherein the housing interface covers a rear portion of the mortar bomb. The housing interface, when coupled to the mortar bomb, collectively forms an aerodynamically shaped body with the mortar bomb. At least two deployable wings are attached to the housing interface, wherein the wings transition between a retracted state and a deployed state.