Projectile Range-to-Go Measurement Using Dual Detectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional guided munitions face challenges in accurately determining the range-to-go for command detonation, especially when targeting moving or small targets, as existing methods rely on precise pre-launch calculations and are ineffective in poor weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that uses a projectile with detectors on its tail and nose portions to measure the time delay between detecting a laser or RF signal and its reflection from a target, allowing for accurate calculation of range-to-go and lateral offset, enabling precise control of detonation based on fragmentation patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional range-finding methods (spin counters, pre-launch calculations) are used, then the system is simple to operate, but the measurement precision of range-to-go is insufficient for moving targets
Solution Approach 1:
The projectile is divided into two functional segments: a tail portion with a first detector and a nose portion with a second detector. This segmentation allows independent measurement of signal travel time from different positions, enabling precise range-to-go calculation by comparing the time difference between signal reception at the tail and reflected signal reception at the nose.
Solution Approach 2:
An electromagnetic signal (laser or RF) serves as an intermediary to transfer timing information from the target back to the projectile. The signal bounces off the target and carries encoded range information that the nose detector receives, allowing the projectile to calculate its distance to the target without external assistance.
2Reliability
If pre-launch range calculations are used, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of detonation timing deteriorates for moving targets
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by having the nose detector receive the reflected electromagnetic signal from the target and feed this timing information back to the control system. This real-time feedback loop allows continuous updating of range-to-go calculations, ensuring reliable detonation timing even as the target moves during flight.
Solution Approach 2:
The projectile performs its own range measurement without external assistance by using its mounted detectors to receive and process electromagnetic signals. The system is self-sufficient, generating and processing its own measurement data throughout flight, which maintains reliability for both stationary and moving targets.
3Productivity
If traditional detonation control methods are used, then the ease of operation is high, but the productivity of target engagement is reduced due to ineffective detonation
Solution Approach 1:
The detonation control system transitions from static pre-programmed timing to dynamic real-time adjustment. The control system continuously monitors the measured range-to-go and adjusts the detonation timing accordingly, allowing optimal fragmentation pattern delivery whether the target is stationary or moving, thereby increasing engagement effectiveness.
4Measurement precision
If spin counters are used for range measurement, then the manufacturing precision requirements are low, but the measurement precision deteriorates for moving targets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical spin counter measurement with an electromagnetic signal-based timing system. Instead of relying on mechanical rifling characteristics and spin rate measurements, the system uses electromagnetic signals to directly measure the time for light to travel to the target and back, eliminating dependence on mechanical precision while achieving superior measurement accuracy for moving targets.
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 approach enables accurate and reliable command detonation of guided munitions, improving their effectiveness against moving targets and in adverse weather conditions by determining the optimal detonation time and distance, even when traditional methods fail.
Implementation Method 1
detecting a first laser signal via a detector mounted on the tail portion of the projectile
Implementation Method 2
detecting a second laser signal via a detector mounted on the nose portion of the projectile, the second laser signal being the first laser signal that has reflected off a target
Implementation Method 3
comparing the first time to the second time to determine a time delay; determining an accurate range-to-go based on the time delay
Data Source
AI summary
The system and method for accurately determining range-to-go for the command detonation of a projectile. Using dual laser and/or radio frequency detectors on the tail and on the nose of a spinning projectile to determine the range-to-go, time-to-go, or lateral offset from the projectile to the target.