Mortar Training Device with Automated Ammunition Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mortar training devices require manual removal of ammunition, leading to unrealistic training scenarios and potential distractions during rapid firing, and existing solutions either result in ammunition falling out or require cumbersome collection systems.
Innovation Solution
A training device with a movable firing tube and transport mechanism that automatically removes ammunition through a rear opening, utilizing sensors and a carousel system to manage multiple rounds and facilitate wireless data transfer for realistic and efficient training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual removal of ammunition is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and training realism is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The transport device automatically removes spent ammunition from the firing tube using a cam mechanism that engages with the ammunition's extraction groove, eliminating the need for manual removal by trainees and enabling continuous rapid firing without interruption
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction groove is built into the ammunition design itself, allowing the transport mechanism to selectively engage and remove spent rounds through the rear wall opening without affecting live ammunition or requiring complex manual operations
2Ease of operation
If guide sheets are arranged at the discharge opening to conduct ammunition out, then ammunition can be directed, but harmful factors increase as ammunition falls onto the ground causing distractions
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of allowing ammunition to fall out the front discharge opening, the system extracts spent rounds through a opening in the rear wall of the firing tube, directing them into a collection container below and eliminating the distraction of falling ammunition during rapid firing
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism acts as an intermediary between the spent ammunition and the collection container, gently guiding and transporting the rounds rather than allowing them to drop freely, thereby eliminating the harmful distraction effect
3Ease of repair
If a collection container is arranged under the base plate to collect fallen ammunition, then ammunition can be recovered, but device complexity and setup requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The collection container is integrated directly into the base plate structure, combining the support function of the base plate with the collection function of the container, eliminating the need for separate support structures and dug-out hollow spaces
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction groove in the ammunition design allows for simple mechanical engagement by the cam mechanism, enabling easy recovery and reuse of training ammunition without complex collection or handling systems
Data Source
AI summary
A training device for a mortar that includes a firing tube with a front, open end, a rear end, a tube wall and a removal opening for removing a round of mortar training ammunition from the firing tube. The training device further includes a base plate to which the rear end of the firing tube is pivotably connected and a support with an aiming and alignment device. The firing tube is movably connected to the support on a front area by the aiming and alignment device. The training device also includes a transport device arranged on the rear and of the firing tube with which rounds of mortar training ammunition can be automatically transported away out of the firing tube through the removal opening.