Projectile Body Spin Detection via Despun Collar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spin-stabilized projectiles face challenges in accurately detecting and controlling the spin rates of their components during flight, which affects their stability and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a body-spin detection system within the projectile, which includes a despun collar portion and a detection mechanism that uses a detection element and a perturbing element to determine the spin rate and rotational orientation of the projectile components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a body-spin detection system is implemented in the projectile, then spin rate detection precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into distinct functional components: a despun collar portion that rotates independently, detection elements positioned at specific locations, and signal processing elements. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall system design and reducing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The despun collar portion acts as an intermediary element between the spinning projectile body and the detection system. It provides a stable reference frame and transmits rotational information to the detection elements, enabling accurate spin rate measurement without requiring direct sensing from the spinning components.
2Ease of operation
If the despun collar portion is separated axially from the chassis for free despinning, then rotational freedom is improved, but structural stability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static connected structure to a dynamic configuration where the despun collar portion can rotate freely relative to the chassis. This dynamic separation allows the collar to respond independently to aerodynamic forces while maintaining overall structural integrity through controlled mechanical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the projectile structure have different degrees of freedom and stability requirements. The despun collar portion is designed with local rotational freedom where needed, while the main chassis maintains structural stability. This localized differentiation of mechanical properties resolves the contradiction between free despinning and overall structural stability.
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 solution enables precise detection of spin rates and rotational orientations, enhancing the stability and accuracy of the projectile during flight, while also allowing for the minimization of projectile drag and compatibility with various projectile calibers.
Implementation Method 1
a body-spin detection system within the projectile, which includes a despun collar portion and a detection mechanism that uses a detection element and a perturbing element to determine the spin rate and rotational orientation of the projectile components
Implementation Method 2
The flight control portion of the projectile has aerodynamic surfaces, such as fins, to despin the flight control portion using oncoming airflow after the projectile is fired
Implementation Method 3
The rifling in the barrel rotates the projectile in a first direction by way of engagement with the main body portion or sabots containing the projectile
Data Source
AI summary
A body spin detection device for a projectile, the device including a perturbing element and a detection element electrically connected to detection circuitry in the projectile. The detection circuitry configured to receive, via the detection element, a first and second input signals and determine that the first input signal is different from the second input signal based on signal characteristics for the first and second input signals. The detection circuitry is further configured to determine a spin rate for at least one of the despun control portion and the chassis by determining a time period between receiving the first input signal and the second input signal.