Extended-Range Projectile Pusher Plate for Compact In-Barrel Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projectiles face challenges in extending range due to limitations in length and volume constraints, particularly when incorporating ramjet propulsion systems, which require additional space and compromise packaging options.
Innovation Solution
An extended range projectile design featuring a center projectile body that moves from a stowed to a deployed position within an outer shell, propelled by a pusher plate assembly that locks to the aft end and separates after exit from the barrel, utilizing gunfire pressure or an energetic cartridge to further propel the projectile.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If ramjet propulsion system is added to extend projectile range, then propulsion capability is improved, but volume and packaging space are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The pusher plate assembly is nested within the projectile body, with the center projectile body movable within the outer shell. The propulsion mechanism is contained inside the projectile volume rather than adding external components, allowing the projectile to maintain compact packaging while incorporating extended range propulsion capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The center projectile body is designed to be axially movable from a stowed position to a deployed position within the outer shell. This dynamic configuration allows the propulsion system to be compact during launch and expand to full operational length during flight, achieving extended range without permanently increasing projectile volume.
2Force
If gun powder charge is increased to extend range, then propulsion force is improved, but setback forces and barrel pressure exceed limits
Solution Approach 1:
The pusher plate assembly is pre-loaded with an energetic cartridge that provides additional propulsion force after the projectile exits the barrel. This preliminary preparation of secondary propulsion avoids the need to increase main gun powder charges, thereby preventing excessive setback forces and barrel pressures during launch.
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion is divided into two distinct phases: initial gun-powered propulsion during barrel exit, followed by secondary propulsion from the energetic cartridge after muzzle exit. This periodic action allows optimal force application in each phase without exceeding pressure limits during the critical barrel exit phase.
3Use of energy by moving object
If center projectile body is moved from stowed to deployed position, then propulsion efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The center projectile body utilizes the pressure differential created by gunfire to automatically move from the stowed position to the deployed position. The gunfire pressure itself serves as the actuating force, eliminating the need for separate motors, actuators, or control systems, thereby maintaining simple device architecture while achieving efficient propulsion.
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
The design achieves extended range without the need for additional volume typically required by ramjet ducting or fuel stores, enhancing propulsion efficiency and packaging flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a check valve disposed at an aft end of the pusher plate assembly, the check valve being moveable from a closed position to an open position; wherein in the open position of the check valve, the check valve is configured to permit entry of a gunfire pressure, created in a barrel of a gun from which the extended range projectile is configured to be projected, into the pusher plate assembly such that, when the extended range projectile exits the barrel, the gunfire pressure moves the center projectile body from the stowed position to the deployed position
Implementation Method 2
a locking assembly configured to variably lock the pusher plate assembly to the aft end of the outer shell, the locking assembly being radially moveable from a locked position to an unlocked position when the cylindrical pusher plate piston is in the unlocking position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3A~5
AI summary
An extended range projectile (10) includes an outer shell (12), a center projectile body (14) axially moveable from a stowed position to a deployed position within the outer shell, and a pusher plate assembly (16) variably locked to an aft end of the outer shell. The pusher plate assembly includes a check valve disposed at an aft end of the pusher plate assembly, the check valve being moveable from a closed position to an open position. In the open position of the check valve, the check valve is configured to permit entry of a gunfire pressure, created in a barrel of a gun from which the extended range projectile is configured to be projected, into the pusher plate assembly such that, when the extended range projectile exits the barrel, the gunfire pressure moves the center projectile body from the stowed position to the deployed position and propels the extended range projectile.