Thermal Simulation Structure with Segmented Cavity Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing targets struggle to simulate detailed thermal signatures of real-world objects, such as military equipment, in a cost-effective manner, resulting in poor approximation of the thermal signature and reduced effectiveness in military training.
Innovation Solution
A structure comprising a body with at least one cavity and an inlet for receiving a fluid medium of varying temperature, which causes temperature variations on the external surface, simulating the thermal image of the real-world object. This structure eliminates the need for internal heat sources, reducing costs and enhancing simulation accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If an internal heat source (kerosene burner) is used to heat the target structure, then the exterior surface temperature is increased, but the thermal image becomes featureless and lacks detail
Solution Approach 1:
The target structure is divided into multiple cavities, each representing different thermal zones of the real vehicle (engine compartment, crew compartment, wheel wells, etc.). This segmentation allows each cavity to be independently controlled with separate fluid inlets and outlets, enabling precise replication of the complex thermal signature pattern rather than uniform heating.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the target structure are given different thermal properties through the cavity system. Each cavity can maintain different temperatures and thermal characteristics corresponding to specific functional areas of the real vehicle, creating localized thermal features rather than uniform heating across the entire structure.
2Ease of manufacture
If a simple target structure with internal heat source is used, then the cost is reduced, but the thermal signature detail and realism are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a fluid circulation system (pneumatic/hydraulic principle) to transfer heat to the target structure. Instead of embedding complex electrical heating elements or combustion systems within the target, a relatively simple external fluid circulation system is used. The fluid carries thermal energy through the cavity walls, providing cost-effective thermal control while maintaining structural simplicity.
3Manufacturing precision
If real world equipment is used as target, then the thermal signature accuracy is improved, but the cost and logistical complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a thermal copy of the real vehicle's thermal signature rather than using the actual vehicle. The cavity structure replicates the thermal zones and patterns of the real equipment, and the fluid circulation system reproduces the thermal dynamics. This provides a cost-effective training target that accurately mimics the thermal characteristics without the logistical burden of transporting and maintaining real military equipment.
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 proposed solution accurately replicates the thermal image of real-world objects, improving the effectiveness of military training by enabling personnel to familiarize themselves with the tell-tale features of specific targets, thereby reducing the risk of friendly fire.
Implementation Method 1
at least one inlet opening into the cavity for receiving a flow of fluid medium into the cavity
Implementation Method 2
the cavity having an internal configuration for the fluid medium to cause temperature variations on an external surface of the body
Data Source
AI summary
A structure (10) for simulating a thermal image generated by a real world object, the structure (10) comprising a body (22), (24), (26) and (28) having at least one cavity (106), and at least one inlet opening into the cavity (106) for receiving a flow of fluid medium into the cavity (106). The fluid medium having a temperature that differs from ambient. The cavity (106) having internal configurations defining flow paths for the fluid medium to cause temperature variations on an external surface (26) of the body to simulate the thermal image of the real world object.