RF Igniter for Artillery via Segmented Multipoint Energy Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional artillery systems face challenges with unpredictable ignition due to single point rear ignition, which can lead to weapon failure and requires complex charge design, and existing ignition systems in the breech are not robust enough to withstand extreme vibrations, shocks, and environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A radio frequency ignition system that uses a radio frequency emitter to produce electromagnetic energy, which is converted by radio frequency igniters into thermal or electrical energy to ignite energetic charges, providing simultaneous and reliable multipoint ignition within the breech of an artillery system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If single point rear ignition is used in conventional artillery charges, then the ignition system structure is simplified, but the ignition predictability deteriorates and weapon reliability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The ignition system is segmented into multiple independent RF igniter units distributed at different locations within the propelling charge. Each igniter contains an initiating charge that can be independently activated by RF energy, transforming the single-point ignition into multi-point simultaneous ignition. This segmentation ensures that if one igniter fails, others can still initiate combustion, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the ignition parameter from single-point to multi-point by distributing RF igniters throughout the charge. The RF emitter delivers energy at specific frequencies that resonate with the igniter components, causing simultaneous ignition at multiple locations. This parameter change from spatial distribution to frequency-based activation achieves predictable ignition while maintaining relatively simple system architecture.
2Device complexity
If conventional electrical or mechanical primers are used in the breech, then the ignition system is simple to implement, but the system robustness against vibration and shock deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces mechanical and electrical primer systems with a radio frequency-based ignition system. Instead of using mechanical impact or electrical sparks that are sensitive to vibration and shock, the system uses RF electromagnetic energy to ignite the propelling charge. The RF igniters are encapsulated in protective housings that further isolate them from mechanical stresses, maintaining simplicity while dramatically improving robustness against the extreme vibration and shock conditions in artillery firing.
Solution Approach 2:
The RF emitter acts as an intermediary between the control system and the propelling charge ignition. Rather than directly contacting or mechanically interacting with the charge, the emitter transmits RF energy through the air or vacuum in the breech to activate the igniters. This intermediary approach eliminates direct mechanical stress transmission while maintaining effective ignition control.
3Device complexity
If single point rear ignition is used, then the charge design is simpler, but the generation of rarefaction waves increases and requires complex charge design considerations
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the ignition into multiple distributed points within the propelling charge, the combustion front is initiated simultaneously at several locations rather than propagating from a single rear point. This segmentation of the ignition front prevents the formation of strong rarefaction waves that would otherwise be generated by the pressure gradient from single-point ignition, eliminating the need for complex charge design compensations.
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 radio frequency ignition system ensures predictable and reliable ignition of propelling charges, enhancing ballistic performance and durability against environmental and operational stresses, while eliminating the need for complex charge design and reducing the risk of premature detonation.
Implementation Method 1
The first layer further comprises a radio frequency absorption material for receiving the burst of electromagnetic energy and converting it to a stimulus for igniting the initiating charge
Implementation Method 2
The radio frequency emitter emits electromagnetic energy into a resonant cavity
Data Source
AI summary
An ignition system for energetics including artillery charges includes a radio frequency transmitter and a radio frequency igniter. The radio frequency igniter receives and converts radio frequency energy into heat or electrical energy for the purpose of igniting energetics, such as propellants or pyrotechnics. The radio frequency igniter may be applied to the exterior of the energetic container or may be integral to the container.