Segmented Cartridge Box System for Flexible Ammunition Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cartridge boxes for strip ammunition are limited by their fixed size and position, which restricts flexibility and capacity, especially in applications like helicopters where reloading is impossible during flight and space is constrained by aerodynamics and balance rather than practical storage needs.

Innovation Solution

A set of at least two cartridge boxes with a second inlet and outlet separated by a return roller, allowing flexible positioning and the use of permanent magnets to maintain the strip's position, along with removable covers and adjustable cell walls for optimal space utilization and adaptability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If a single large cartridge box is used, then the ammunition capacity is increased, but the positioning flexibility and adaptability to various weapon systems are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveammunition capacityVSAvoidpositioning flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The ammunition storage system is divided into multiple separate cartridge boxes (first box, second box, third box) that can be independently positioned and connected in series. Each box maintains its own inlet and outlet, allowing flexible arrangement while collectively providing large ammunition capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Device complexity

If the cartridge box position is fixed a priori, then the box structure is simplified, but the adaptability to various weapon systems and rough terrain is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebox structureVSAvoidweapon system compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Each cartridge box is designed with universal inlet and outlet positions that can accommodate different weapon systems. The boxes can be oriented in various positions (upside down, sideways) and still function, making them compatible with multiple weapon configurations and terrain conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If the inlet and outlet are positioned on the same side of the box, then the box design is simplified, but the flexibility in positioning and orientation is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebox designVSAvoidpositioning flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The cartridge boxes feature asymmetric inlet and outlet positioning where the inlet and outlet are located on opposite sides of the box rather than the same side. This asymmetric arrangement allows the boxes to be connected in series with flexible orientation, enabling adaptation to various weapon system configurations and terrain conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

4Quantity of substance

If multiple cartridge boxes are connected in series, then the ammunition capacity and positioning flexibility are increased, but the system complexity is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveammunition capacityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses multiple independent cartridge boxes connected in series, where each box is a self-contained unit with its own inlet, outlet, and return roller. This segmentation allows the system to achieve large ammunition capacity while maintaining relatively simple individual components that can be independently maintained and replaced.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Enables flexible positioning and increased capacity for ammunition distribution, allowing the use of the weapon system in various terrains and armament configurations, optimizing space usage without additional feeding devices.

Implementation Method 1

a permanent magnet is placed at the bottom of each compartment, each magnet allowing the cartridge strip to be held in the compartment regardless of the position of the box

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP3615879B1System of at least two cartridge boxes for ammunition belt
Publication Date: 2022.09.21 FN HERSTAL SA
  • EP3615879B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3615879B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5
  • EP3615879B1 patent drawingFigure 6~8

AI summary

The present invention relates to a cartridge box comprising: - a box (1) comprising an intake (5) and an outlet (6), the outlet (6) being placed under the intake (5) and separated from same by a guide roller (3); - a plurality of compartments (9) separated by partitions (2); - a belt (7) of cartridges (8), said cartridge belt crossing the intake (5), then folding into the compartments (9), from the compartment (9) closest to the intake (5) to the compartment that is furthest away, and then crossing the outlet (6), above the guide roller (3).