Munition Controller Mode Transition for Safety and Readiness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remotely controllable munition systems face challenges in ensuring safe handling and storage while maintaining operational readiness.
Innovation Solution
A method for selectively de-arming, arming, and fuzing of remotely controllable munitions using a munition controller that operates in multiple modes, including a safe storage mode, an intermediate operational readiness mode, and an engagement mode, allowing for remote and manual control of the munition's fuzing mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the munition controller remains in operational mode with power connected, then operational readiness is maintained, but energy consumption increases and safety risks during storage and transportation arise
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically transitions between operational mode and safe mode based on requirements. The munition controller can be rapidly switched between states: in operational mode, power is connected and the fuzing mechanism is armed; in safe mode, power is disconnected and the fuzing mechanism is disabled. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to minimize energy consumption during storage while maintaining operational readiness when needed.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the munition controller is kept in a safe disabled state, then energy consumption is reduced and safety is improved, but transition to operational readiness takes time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions to enable rapid transition from safe mode to operational mode. Before disconnecting power for safe storage, the fuzing mechanism is pre-disabled and the system state is pre-configured for safe storage. When operational readiness is required, the system can rapidly reconnect power and arm the fuzing mechanism without extensive preparation time, as the transition path has been pre-established.
3Reliability
If the fuzing mechanism remains armed, then operational readiness is maintained, but safety risks during storage and handling increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the operational state into distinct modes: operational mode where the fuzing mechanism is armed and power is connected, and safe mode where the fuzing mechanism is disabled and power is disconnected. This segmentation allows clear separation between safety-critical states and operational states, enabling the system to eliminate safety risks during storage by transitioning to the disabled state while maintaining the capability to rapidly return to operational readiness.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for selectively de-arming, arming and/or fuzing of remotely controllable munition (12). The method is applied to a munition controller (100) coupleable or coupled to the munition (12) and operable in multiple modes. The method comprises in a first mode (310), disabling a fuzing mechanism (120) of the munition controller (100) by separating a booster charge (122) and a detonator (124) from each other, wherein an electrical power supply (110) of the munition controller (100) is disconnected. The method further comprises in at least one intermediate mode, establishing operational readiness of the munition controller (100) with the electrical power supply (110) being connected and at least partly arming the fuzing mechanism (120). Further, the method comprises in a second mode, enabling triggering of the at least partly armed fuzing mechanism based on a sensor signal indicative for a detected target. The transitioning from the first mode towards the at least one intermediate mode comprises connecting of the electrical power supply (110) and receiving manual operator input on-site.