Projectile Sensor Film for Cannon Tube Pressure Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring blow-by pressure on projectiles during launch from a cannon are inadequate, as pressure taps damage the cannon tube and provide limited data accuracy, while embedded sensors lack correlation with pressure distribution and face calibration challenges.
Innovation Solution
A pressure-sensitive sensor film wrapped around the projectile casing, which imprints maximum pressure data for post-firing analysis, enabling a 360-degree pressure map using optical scanning and specialized software, and is designed to separate cleanly from the projectile post-launch for retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pressure taps are inserted into the side of the cannon tube to measure blow-by pressure, then pressure data can be collected, but the cannon tube is damaged and the data accuracy is limited due to discrete reference points
Solution Approach 1:
A pressure-sensitive film is introduced as an intermediary between the blow-by pressure environment and the measurement system. The film is wrapped around the projectile and exposed to the pressure field during launch, then removed and scanned optically to create a continuous pressure distribution map, eliminating the need for invasive pressure taps in the cannon tube
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure-sensitive film creates a physical copy or imprint of the pressure distribution pattern experienced by the projectile during launch. This pressure map is then optically scanned and converted into digital data, providing accurate pressure information without requiring direct electronic sensors in the high-stress launch environment
2Measurement precision
If pressure sensors are positioned within the projectile at discrete locations, then blow-by pressure data can be obtained, but there is no correlation with the location of maximum pressure exertion
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement approach transitions from discrete point measurements in three-dimensional space to a continuous two-dimensional pressure distribution map. The pressure-sensitive film wrapped around the projectile captures pressure information across the entire surface, providing comprehensive spatial distribution data that correlates directly with the projectile geometry and pressure application points
3Reliability
If sensors are permanently embedded within the projectile to survive extreme launch environments, then sensor durability is improved, but calibration becomes limited and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure-sensitive film is designed as a disposable, non-electronic component that does not need to survive the launch environment. It is exposed to pressure during launch, then removed and scanned. This eliminates the need for ruggedized, calibrated electronic sensors that must withstand extreme g-forces and temperatures, simplifying both the sensor design and calibration process
Solution Approach 2:
Electronic pressure sensors are replaced with a mechanical/chemical pressure-sensitive film that changes its optical properties in response to pressure. This substitution eliminates complex electronic calibration requirements while maintaining measurement capability in the extreme launch environment
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
Provides accurate and detailed pressure mapping of the projectile's environment during launch, allowing for improved safety and structural integrity by minimizing damage to the cannon tube and enabling effective data analysis of blow-by pressures.
Implementation Method 1
A pressure-sensitive sensor film wrapped around the projectile casing, which imprints maximum pressure data for post-firing analysis
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments pertain to a projectile that includes a casing and a sensor that is wrapped around the casing. As an example, the sensor may be wrapped around a longitudinal axis of the casing. The sensor obtains environmental data that the projectile is exposed to when the projectile is inside a cannon tube. As an example, the sensor may obtain pressure data that the projectile is exposed to during launch of the projectile when the projectile is inside the cannon tube. The sensor may include a plurality of segments that at least partially surround the casing. In some embodiments, the segments may be separated from the casing due to pressure that the projectile is exposed to during launch.