Nested Push-Pull Sabot Segments for Weight Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sabot designs for sub-caliber projectiles are heavy due to inefficient material distribution and structural limitations, particularly in the push-pull configuration where the space under the pressure flange is difficult to optimize, leading to suboptimal mass and mechanical properties.
Innovation Solution
The sabot is mechanically divided into separate parts, with one part taking on the pull function and another the push function, allowing for independent operation and material selection, and is nested in a cylindrical or tangential configuration to minimize weight and maximize load distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a one-piece sabot design is used, then structural integrity is maintained, but weight is excessive and material distribution is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sabot is divided into multiple separate parts (at least two sabot parts) that can be manufactured independently and assembled together. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function (push or pull) while reducing overall weight compared to a one-piece design that must accommodate all functions in a single structure.
2Weight of moving object
If separate sabot parts are used for push and pull functions, then weight is reduced and material distribution is optimized, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the sabot into separate functional parts, each part can be manufactured using optimal processes for its specific requirements, potentially simplifying individual manufacturing steps even though assembly becomes more complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The sabot parts are nested within each other in a cylindrical or tangential configuration, with one part containing or surrounding another. This nesting arrangement compactly accommodates multiple functional parts while minimizing overall volume and facilitating assembly through straightforward insertion or interlocking.
3Strength
If the space under the pressure flange is optimized in a one-piece sabot, then structural efficiency improves, but manufacturing difficulty increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure flange area is separated into distinct sabot parts, allowing the space under the pressure flange to be optimized for structural efficiency in each part independently. Each part can be designed with optimal material distribution and thickness for its specific load requirements without the constraints of a one-piece monolithic structure.
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
This design enables significant weight reduction while maintaining structural integrity and efficient force transmission, allowing for better production simplification and shape optimization, resulting in a more efficient and lightweight sabot.
Implementation Method 1
separation in front of the muzzle is made possible by the sabot being divided into several segments, which, starting at the tip, detach radially from the projectile as soon as these segments are no longer held together radially by the inner barrel wall. Such segmentation does not negatively impact the axial force transmission, as it runs parallel to the force flow.
Implementation Method 2
The part of the sabot in front of this pressure flange accelerates the projectile through compression, while the part behind it accelerates through tension. The tension is also affected by the propellant gas pressure.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
To reduce the mass of a sabot (20, 30) having a push function and a pull function, it is proposed that the sabot (20, 30) comprise mutually separate sabot parts (5, 6, 14', 15'), wherein at least one sabot part (5, 14') is configured in such a way that it performs the pull function, and wherein at least one sabot part (6, 15') is configured in such a way that it performs the push function. For this purpose, the sabot parts (5, 6, 14', 15') are nested. This can be implemented in the form of cylindrical nesting or in the form of tangential nesting. In the case of the cylindrical nesting, the outer sabot part (6) encloses the inner part (5) along an interface (24). In the case of the tangential nesting, the sabot parts (14', 15') are divided into sabot subsegments (14, 15). The latter are nested in alternating fashion in the tangential direction, with the result that a pull-sabot subsegment (14) and a push-sabot subsegment (15) are always nested in alternating fashion in the circumferential direction. To provide sufficient sealing, the sabot subsegments (14, 15) overlap one another.