Multiple-charge cartridge with rotatable selector ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ammunition cartridges often compromise on projectile energy when used across varying ranges, leading to either insufficient energy at longer ranges or excessive energy at shorter ranges, which is particularly problematic for less-than-lethal cartridges used by military and law enforcement to manage unruly crowds without causing injury or death.
Innovation Solution
A multiple-charge cartridge with a rotatable selector ring and cam system that allows users to select between different charges, aligning them with a primer to achieve specific energy outputs for varying ranges, ensuring optimal projectile energy based on user selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a cartridge is designed with a single charge to handle a variety of ranges, then the need to carry multiple cartridges is eliminated, but the projectile energy becomes compromised at both longer and shorter ranges
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is segmented into multiple charge sections (first charge, second charge, third charge) with different energy levels. Each charge can be independently selected by rotating the cam mechanism to align a specific charge with the primer, allowing the user to optimize projectile energy for different range requirements while using a single cartridge.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge employs a dynamic selection mechanism where the cam can be rotated to different positions (first, second, third positions) to dynamically select which charge will be ignited. This allows the cartridge to adapt its energy output based on the user's needs for different ranges, resolving the contradiction between versatility and energy optimization.
2Device complexity
If a single charge is used to cover all ranges, then device complexity is reduced, but the precision of energy control is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge pre-configures multiple charges with specific energy levels suitable for different ranges. The user performs a preliminary action of rotating the cam to the appropriate position before firing, selecting the precise energy level needed. This preliminary selection ensures accurate energy control without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms during firing.
3Use of energy by moving object
If multiple charges are included in the cartridge, then projectile energy can be optimized for different ranges, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple charges, a cam mechanism, a selector ring, and ignition components are merged into a single integrated cartridge structure. The cam rotates to align different charges with the primer, and all components work together as one unified system. This merging allows precise energy control for different ranges while maintaining a compact, manageable cartridge design rather than requiring separate cartridges for each energy level.
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 precise control over projectile energy based on user-selected ranges, ensuring effective deterrence without causing harm, and ensures all charges are safely detonated after the primary charge, eliminating the risk of undetonated residues.
Implementation Method 1
The plunger comprises a spring in compressible communication with a ball. The spring is configured to urge the ball against the cam to provide resistance, via the cam, to a rotation of the rotatable selector ring.
Implementation Method 2
The first charge is configured to generate a first energy upon detonation, and the second charge is configured to generate a second energy upon detonation that is greater than the first energy.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple-charge cartridge is disclosed. The cartridge includes an annular casing having an interior void and a primer. A rotatable selector ring is positioned circumferentially about at least a portion of the annular casing. A cam is positioned in the interior void and includes a first charge and a second charge. The cam is coupled to the rotatable selector ring and is configured to rotate about an axis in response to a rotation of the rotatable selector ring. The cam is configured to align the first charge with the primer in response to a rotation of the rotatable selector ring to a first user-selectable position, and to align the second charge with the primer in response to a rotation of the rotatable selector ring to a second user-selectable position.