Movable Baffle Warhead for Projectile-Fragment Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing warheads with projectile-forming explosive charges are not easily switchable between projectile-forming and fragment-forming functions, limiting their versatility in different operational scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A warhead design that includes a splinter screen, consisting of movable strut-like baffle sections which can pivot from a rest position to a functional position, allowing the metal coating to deform into fragments instead of a single projectile, expanding the warhead's functional range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a projectile-forming explosive charge with metal coating is used, then a single projectile can be formed through cold deformation, but the warhead cannot be easily switched to fragment-forming function
Solution Approach 1:
The screen is designed as a movable component that can transition between a rest position (allowing projectile formation) and an active position (enabling fragment formation). This dynamic reconfiguration allows the warhead to switch functions by moving the screen into or out of the metal coating's deformation zone, providing adaptability without requiring multiple separate warhead designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The screen is pre-positioned in the rest position during warhead assembly, allowing the metal coating to form a projectile when the explosive is detonated. When fragment formation is desired, the screen is moved into the active position before detonation. This preliminary positioning enables functional switching without modifying the fundamental projectile-forming mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the screen sections are moved into the projectile's path of travel, then fragment formation is enabled, but the mechanism for moving them must be reliable and simple
Solution Approach 1:
The screen sections are equipped with spring elements that automatically move them from the rest position to the active position when the locking element is released. This self-actuating mechanism reduces the complexity of the actuation system and improves reliability by eliminating the need for complex motorized or manual positioning mechanisms. The springs ensure consistent positioning without requiring additional power sources or control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
A locking element serves as an intermediary mechanism that controls the position of the screen sections. When engaged, it holds the screens in the rest position; when released, it allows the spring elements to move the screens to the active position. This simple locking mechanism provides reliable control over the functional mode switching without requiring complex actuation systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple baffle sections are used to form the splinter screen, then the fragmentation function is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The splinter screen is divided into multiple movable screen sections that can be independently positioned. When activated, these sections form a grid-like structure in the metal coating's deformation zone, causing fragmentation. The segmented design allows for controlled fragmentation patterns while maintaining the ability to switch between projectile and fragment modes. The modular nature of the sections also simplifies the actuation mechanism, as each section can be moved by individual spring elements.
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 the warhead to be switched between projectile-forming and fragment-forming functions simply and reliably, enhancing its operational flexibility and effectiveness in various situations.
Implementation Method 1
a restoring force built up by means of a spring element
Implementation Method 2
the usual cold deformation of the metal coating occurs
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
Warhead (1) comprising a warhead casing (2) in which a projectile-forming explosive charge (4) comprising an explosive (9) with associated metal coating (10) is arranged, wherein a shattering baffle (6) is provided which can be brought in front of the metal coating (10) as required, and which deforms the metal coating (10) when the explosive (9) is ignited.