Single Actuator Dual Conveyor Reloading Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic reloading systems for large caliber rear-loading weapons with double ammunition magazines are complex and expensive due to the need for two actuators to control alternating movements of ammunition conveyors.
Innovation Solution
A single actuator is used to move two ammunition conveyors in synchronized opposition, taking advantage of their symmetrical movements to achieve alternate feeding, reducing complexity and cost while maintaining efficient reloading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two actuators are used to control the alternating movements of two ammunition conveyors, then the alternating feeding of the weapon is ensured, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control function of two separate actuators into a single actuator that simultaneously controls both ammunition conveyors. The actuator delivers an alternating movement that is transmitted to both conveyors through movement means, causing them to move in phase opposition. This combining of control functions reduces device complexity and cost while maintaining the alternating feeding capability through the symmetrical arrangement of the conveyors.
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuator performs multiple functions: it controls both the first and second ammunition conveyors, delivering alternating movements that enable both conveyors to operate in phase opposition. The actuator serves as a universal control element for the entire alternating feeding system, replacing what would traditionally require two separate actuators.
2Productivity
If two actuators are used to control the ammunition conveyors, then the alternating feeding is achieved, but the system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control of two ammunition conveyors into a single actuator system, reducing the number of expensive components required. The movement means transmit the single actuator's alternating movement to both conveyors, enabling cost-effective implementation of the alternating feeding mechanism that maintains high reloading speed.
3Device complexity
If a single actuator is used to move both ammunition conveyors, then the device complexity and cost are reduced, but the synchronization of alternating movements must be precisely achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the symmetrical arrangement of the two ammunition conveyors with respect to a vertical plane of symmetry. The movement means are designed to transmit the single actuator's alternating movement in a way that creates symmetrical phase opposition between the two conveyors. This geometric symmetry ensures that both conveyors follow identical trajectories and maintain precise synchronization without requiring complex control mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an automatic reloading device (2) for a weapon (100) fed by two ammunition magazines (120, 130). The device (2) comprises first and second ammunition conveyors (3, 4), each movable in opposite phases between a position for collecting a round (M) from a magazine (120, 130) and a reloading position for the weapon (100). The device (2) includes a single actuator (5) capable of delivering a reciprocating motion and means for transmitting this reciprocating motion to the first and second ammunition conveyors (3, 4) and converting it into movements of the first and second ammunition conveyors (3, 4) for alternating feeding of the weapon (100). The invention also relates to a weapon system (1) comprising such a reloading device (2).