Hand-Settable Net Munition Fuze Delay Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for ensnaring unmanned aerial systems (UAS) using nets are ineffective due to the need for well-trained pilots or heavy, less maneuverable UAS-mounted net launchers, and there is a lack of a reliable fuze system to interface with a servomotor for precise net deployment.
Innovation Solution
A fuze system for projectiles that includes a controller, power source, and servomotor, allowing for a preset delay before powering the servomotor to release a net, which is deployed via centripetal forces after the delay, ensuring precise targeting and conserving battery power by avoiding premature servomotor activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a UAS-mounted net launcher is used to shoot a net at the threat, then the net can be deployed remotely, but the UAS becomes too heavy and has limited range
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the net deployment function into two separate components: a lightweight projectile that carries the net and a separate launch mechanism. The projectile is launched independently and then releases the net in flight, eliminating the need for a heavy UAS-mounted launcher while maintaining remote deployment capability.
2Measurement precision
If a launched munition releases a net during flight, then the net can be delivered precisely at target location, but a fuze capable of interfacing with servomotor is required
Solution Approach 1:
The fuze system is designed to be self-activating through a simple mechanical interface. The launch event automatically triggers the fuze's timer and servesomotor activation sequence without requiring external control systems or complex programming. The fuze autonomously manages power delivery timing based on pre-set parameters, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining precision.
3Speed
If the servomotor is powered immediately upon launch, then the net can be deployed quickly, but the servomotor may be damaged during launch
Solution Approach 1:
The fuze is pre-configured with a timer that is activated at launch but does not immediately trigger the servomotor. Instead, the timer counts down for a predetermined delay period before enabling power delivery to the servomotor. This preliminary timing action protects the servomotor from launch vibrations and stresses while ensuring rapid net deployment after the delay period.
4Loss of time
If the net is deployed immediately upon launch, then the response time is minimal, but the servomotor is exposed to harmful launch forces
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs a preliminary timing function where the fuze timer is started immediately upon launch but delays servomotor activation until the count-down period expires. This preliminary action separates the launch event from the servomotor activation, protecting the servomotor from harmful launch forces while maintaining rapid response time after the delay period.
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 and effective deployment of nets to disable UAS targets, improving the chances of successful ensnarement and reducing the risk of damage to the servomotor during launch.
Implementation Method 1
The dial is mechanically manipulated to set the preset delay and further comprises at least one magnet and at least one Hall Effect sensor for sensing a position of the dial
Implementation Method 2
The net assembly further comprises the net, deployment petals attached to the net and an ejection spring aft of the net. After the preset delay, the fuze provides the control signal and electric power to the servomotor which in turn releases the ogive section. The release of the ogive section allows the ejection spring to eject the deployment petals along the net
Implementation Method 3
Centripetal forces imparted by previous projectile spin forces the petals outward, opening the still spinning net which has been ejected in the path of the target
Data Source
AI summary
A hand settable fuze interfaces with a servomotor to deploy a net from a projectile in flight. Prior to launch, a dial is rotated to both power on the fuze and set a preset delay. The projectile is then launched from a launcher system to deliver the stowed net rapidly and accurately toward a target. After the preset delay, the net is deployed from the projectile toward the target by operation of the servomotor.