Remote Tactical Gimbal for Backblast-Safe Rocket Launcher Aiming
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lightweight anti-armor weapons like the M72 LAWS rocket launcher pose a risk to soldiers due to the backblast, exposing their position and endangering them in combat situations, and there is a need for a remote operation system that can be integrated with various platforms for safer use.
Innovation Solution
A remote tactical gimbal targeting system (RTGTS) that allows for the remote operation of M72 LAWS rocket launchers, featuring a modular, self-powered, and universally adaptable design with optical sighting, laser range finding, and fire control, capable of mounting on various vehicles and platforms, and includes encryption for secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the M72 LAWS rocket launcher is operated from the shoulder, then the soldier can directly engage the target, but the backblast exposes the soldier's position and endangers their life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote weapon station as an intermediary between the soldier and the rocket launcher. The RWS includes a remote control unit, gimbal mechanism, and mounting system that allows the launcher to be fired from a protected position. The soldier controls the weapon remotely through optical sights and fire control systems, eliminating direct exposure to backblast while maintaining engagement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The weapon system is divided into separate functional modules: the rocket launcher unit, the remote weapon station platform, the optical sighting system, and the fire control system. This segmentation allows the launcher to be mounted on various platforms (vehicles, tripods, fixed positions) while the soldier operates from a safe distance, resolving the contradiction between safety and operational capability.
2Reliability
If the rocket launcher is mounted on a remote platform, then soldier safety is improved, but the complexity of the mounting and integration system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The remote weapon station is designed with universal mounting capabilities that can interface with multiple platform types including vehicles, tripods, and fixed installations. The system uses standardized mounting interfaces and adaptable support structures that can accommodate different rocket launcher models, reducing the need for platform-specific customizations while maintaining safety benefits.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a remote weapon station is implemented, then the soldier's position is protected from enemy fire, but the system requires more complex control and integration mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The fire control system incorporates feedback mechanisms including optical tracking, range finding, and ballistics computation that automatically adjust aim and firing parameters. The system provides real-time feedback to the operator about target acquisition, weapon status, and firing solution, simplifying the control process despite the increased distance and complexity of the remote platform.
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 RTGTS significantly reduces soldier casualties by enabling remote operation up to 10 miles away, providing flexible and secure targeting with high accuracy and adaptability, and includes safety features to prevent system takeover.
Implementation Method 1
laser range finding
Implementation Method 2
optical sighting
Data Source
AI summary
A remote weapon system structured to be interfaced with aerial, ground and sea vehicles or platforms for operation in mission critical conditions, allows for mounting and control of single or multi-shot anti-armor rocket launcher systems and provides optical sighting, laser range finding and fire control to adjust vertical elevation, sight of target and trigger of the ignition system. A tactical gimbal controlled by a high torque motor with dual shafts allows for high positional accuracy and target hold that is stable. A frame shrouds and secures rocket launcher tubes causing them to move in unison with the tactical gimbal as a single or multi-shot system. Ignition of the rocket(s) is achieved by a remote-controlled ignitor.