Shearable Thread Munition Tail Unit for Reversible Payload Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing munition devices lack the ability to reversibly load and remove payloads without damage, limiting flexibility and logistics in payload deployment and disposal.
Innovation Solution
A common carrier munition design featuring a shearable thread mechanism between the tail unit and main body, allowing for reversible engagement and disengagement without damage, along with a modular payload cavity for interchangeable payloads, and an expulsion charge system for controlled payload release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If shearable pins are used to secure the tail unit to the main body, then the connection strength is improved, but the ease of payload removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism transitions from a static permanent connection (shearable pins) to a dynamic reversible connection (shearable thread). The thread allows the tail unit to be readily fitted and removed without damaging the linkage, enabling easy payload removal while maintaining connection strength during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The material hardness parameter is differentiated between the main body (steel alloy) and tail unit (aluminium or alloy). This parameter change allows the softer tail unit material to undergo plastic deformation under tensile load during launch, enabling controlled disengagement without damaging the harder main body.
2Reliability
If a permanent secure connection is used between tail unit and main body, then the reliability is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system provides dynamic adaptability through the shearable thread mechanism. The tail unit can be securely attached during normal operation and easily detached for disposal or replacement, allowing the same munition structure to adapt to different operational requirements and payload types.
Solution Approach 2:
The munition is segmented into separable components (main body, tail unit, payload) connected by the shearable thread. This segmentation allows independent removal and replacement of the tail unit and payload, enhancing adaptability while maintaining reliable connection during use through the threaded engagement.
3Strength
If the tail unit is made from harder material, then the strength is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The material hardness parameter is strategically differentiated: the main body uses harder steel alloy for structural strength, while the tail unit uses softer aluminium or alloy for ease of manufacture and controlled deformation. This parameter change allows the tail unit to be easily manufactured and enables it to deform plastically under launch loads, facilitating safe disengagement.
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 easy loading and unloading of payloads, enhances logistics flexibility, and ensures reliable, controlled delivery of various payloads such as explosives, illumination, and UAVs without damaging the munition components.
Implementation Method 1
the lower hardness material readily undergoes plastic deformation such that the tail unit disengages from the main body
Implementation Method 2
the initiation of the expulsion charge, via action of the fuze, will cause the internal cavity of the shell and hence the force on the payload, to place the tail unit under a tensile load
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a common carrier munition ammunition device, more particularly to common carrier payload delivery shell.There is provided a common carrier munition comprising a tail unit, a main body which comprises a payload cavity for receiving a payload, a fuze, and located between said main body and the fuze an ogive element, wherein the tail unit and main body comprise cooperatively engaging male and female threaded portions, wherein at least one of the threads is a shearable thread.