Optical Projectile Programming via Laser Signal Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for programming in-flight projectiles face issues such as high power consumption, bulky equipment, interference from IED suppression technology, limited use in non-self-guided projectiles, and difficulty in maintaining consistent signal contact due to projectile oscillation, which restricts effective in-flight programming.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses an optical transmitter in a fire control device to transmit modulated optical signals to a projectile with a translucent collector and optical sensor, allowing for in-flight programming of the fuze circuit, including identification of function mode and optimum function time, while minimizing interference and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If radio frequency signals are used to transmit programming data to projectiles, then programming capability is achieved, but interference from IED suppression technology occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces radio frequency electromagnetic signals with optical signals (laser beam) for transmitting programming data to the projectile. This substitution of the transmission medium eliminates interference from IED suppression technology that targets RF signals, while maintaining the capability to program the fuze in-flight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary (laser beam and optical collector) as a mediator between the fire control device and the projectile. This intermediary enables data transmission through a different physical domain (optical instead of RF), avoiding the harmful interference environment that affects radio frequency communications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If inductive transmission coils are used to transmit programming data, then programming capability is achieved, but the coils are very bulky and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces heavy inductive transmission coils with a lightweight optical detection system (optical collector and sensor). The transmitter remains at the fire control device, eliminating the need for bulky power-intensive coils on the projectile, thereby significantly reducing projectile weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the transmission function from the projectile side (removing the need for active transmission coils on the projectile) and consolidates it at the fire control device. The projectile only needs to receive and detect optical signals, which requires minimal onboard equipment and reduces weight.
3Adaptability or versatility
If RF programming methods are used, then programming capability is achieved, but power consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces power-intensive RF transmission and processing with optical signal detection. The projectile's optical sensor requires minimal power to detect and process the laser-based programming signals, dramatically reducing the energy consumption compared to RF-based systems that require high-power transmitters and processors.
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 efficient and reliable in-flight programming of projectiles without the need for bulky equipment, reduces interference, and allows for programming of non-self-guided projectiles, improving targeting accuracy and reducing operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
The optical transmitter emits programming signals in the direction of the projectile (in-flight) with an adequate beam width and strength. The optical light is modulated in amplitude to create an optical signal.
Implementation Method 2
The collector refracts, reflects and focuses the collected modulated optical signal to the optical sensor.
Implementation Method 3
The collector refracts, reflects and focuses the collected modulated optical signal to the optical sensor.
Implementation Method 4
The collector refracts, reflects and focuses the collected modulated optical signal to the optical sensor.
Implementation Method 5
The sensor becomes energized upon receiving the modulated optical signals. The energized sensor modulates the fuze circuit.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2d
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
A system for optically programming an in-flight projectile fired from a weapon comprises a fire control device and a controlled projectile. The fire control device comprises an optical transmitter and the projectile comprises a fuze, an optical collector and an optical sensor. The transmitter transmits optical signals to the in-flight projectile in order to program the circuit of the fuze disposed in the projectile.