RFID Tag Mounting for Metal Ordnance via Set Screws
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching RFID tags to metal ordinances face challenges such as withstanding physical forces, maintaining aerodynamics, and being compatible with various configurations, especially for metal-cased bombs, where conventional methods are inefficient and not applicable.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for attaching active RFID tags to metal casing bombs like the MK 80 series without removing metal, using set screw mounting mechanisms and existing spaces, with optional dual tag configurations for increased reliability, and compatibility with various bomb types, including guided and practice bombs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional groove-cutting methods are used to attach RFID tags to metal ordinances, then the tags can be mounted, but the method is significantly less efficient and more difficult to apply to metal casings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical groove-cutting system with an electromagnetic induction system. Instead of physically cutting grooves into metal casings, the invention uses an RFID reader to generate an electromagnetic field that induces current in the metal casing, which in turn generates a magnetic field to power and communicate with the passive RFID tag attached to the ordinance exterior.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters from mechanical removal of material to electromagnetic field interaction. The system operates by controlling the frequency and intensity of electromagnetic fields generated by the reader, allowing non-contact power transfer and data communication with the tag without physical modification to the metal casing.
2Reliability
If RFID tags are mounted on metal casing ordinances, then tagging is achieved, but signal receipt and transmission from the tag antenna is quite impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the electromagnetic field as an intermediary between the RFID reader and the passive tag. The reader's electromagnetic field penetrates the metal casing to induce current, which creates a secondary magnetic field that serves as the communication medium, allowing signals to pass through the metal barrier that would otherwise block direct electromagnetic communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces direct electromagnetic wave transmission (which is blocked by metal) with electromagnetic induction through the metal casing. Instead of attempting to transmit signals through or around the metal barrier, the system uses the metal casing itself as part of the induction circuit, converting it from an obstacle into a functional component of the communication pathway.
3Reliability
If tags are mounted to withstand launch and impact forces, then the tags remain associated with the ordinance, but the attachment must be extremely rugged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by attaching the RFID tag to the ordinance exterior before launch and impact events occur. The tag is positioned and secured in advance using conventional attachment methods, allowing it to be in place to withstand the subsequent extreme forces without requiring modification to the attachment process itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent treats the RFID tag attachment as a disposable or replaceable component. Rather than designing an extremely rugged permanent attachment system, the tag and its mounting can be replaced if damaged, using simple attachment methods that prioritize ease of replacement over extreme durability, since the tag's primary function is temporary identification and tracking.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the tag mounting method is compatible with various ordinance configurations, then versatility is improved, but the mounting method must work with different metal casings and fin assemblies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing an RFID tagging system that works across multiple ordinance types (MK81, MK82, MK83, MK84 general purpose bombs and practice bombs) using the same electromagnetic induction principle. The reader and tag design remains consistent while accommodating different casing sizes and configurations through software configuration and physical positioning adjustments, rather than requiring different hardware systems for each ordinance type.
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 solution ensures the RFID tags remain intact and functional during launch and impact, maintains the integrity of the bomb's aerodynamics, and allows for easy retrofitting of existing inventory, providing reliable and versatile tagging across multiple ordinance configurations.
Implementation Method 1
electromagnetic energy may penetrate the casing to energize a passive tag
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for attaching a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag to an ordinance is provided. By tailoring the packaged tag and electronics to accommodate existing ordinance body cavities the integrity of the bomb casing is maintained. Likewise, fin assemblies also remain intact and are mounted in a conventional manner to the tagged ordinance. Numerous ordinance types, to include the mark (MK) 80 series general purpose bombs and equivalents are compatible with the tagging method and system described herein. Set screw mounted tail assemblies of various fin configurations are readily assembled onto the metal body casings of tagged ordinances. A curved dipole antenna provides access to external query signals and transmission of tag locating signals. As described herein, tag antennas can mount between ordinance assembly parts, adding to the ease of retrofitting existing ordinance inventory for a RFID tag localizing system.