Thermocouple Test Round for Chamber Temperature Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Firearms face challenges in accurately measuring and predicting the deformation of projectiles due to extreme chamber temperatures, especially in rapid-fire scenarios, which can lead to inconsistent and inaccurate projectile flight paths, particularly with alternative materials like copper polymer alloys.
Innovation Solution
A test ammunition round equipped with a thermocouple and electronic coupler system that transmits temperature measurements to a data acquisition system, allowing for the prediction of projectile deformation temperature and the number of rounds that can be fired before deformation occurs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If rapid-fire operation is used to increase productivity, then the number of rounds fired per unit time increases, but the chamber temperature increases causing projectile deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by inserting an inert test round into the chamber before firing live rounds to pre-measure the baseline temperature. This allows the system to establish initial conditions and predict future temperature rise, enabling operators to know in advance when deformation risk will occur without interrupting the rapid-fire sequence
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring chamber temperature during rapid-fire operation and comparing it against predicted deformation temperatures. The system provides real-time feedback about the number of rounds that can be safely fired before deformation occurs, allowing dynamic adjustment of firing rates to maintain productivity while preventing damage
2Measurement precision
If traditional temperature measurement methods are used, then the measurement system is simple, but accurate temperature measurement of chambered projectiles is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an inert test round as an intermediary object that contains the temperature sensor. This mediator allows accurate temperature measurement of the chamber environment without requiring direct instrumentation of live projectiles. The test round serves as a safe carrier that can be inserted and removed without affecting the firearm or live ammunition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a copy of the actual projectile situation by using an inert test round that replicates the physical presence and thermal characteristics of a live round without containing explosive materials. This copy allows the measurement system to obtain accurate temperature data from the chamber environment without the hazards of live ammunition
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 precise temperature measurement and prediction of projectile deformation, ensuring consistent and accurate projectile performance by determining the thermal limits of the firing chamber and optimizing ammunition design for materials like copper polymer alloys.
Implementation Method 1
A test round, or cartridge, of ammunition includes a projectile, a cartridge case, and a thermocouple supported in the projectile
Implementation Method 2
A thermally conductive fastener secures the thermocouple within the receiving cavity
Data Source
AI summary
A system, device, and method for measuring the temperature of a chambered projectile within a firearm are provided. A test ammunition round may include a projectile, a sleeve, and a case including a first end coupled to sleeve, and a second end coupled to the projectile. A thermocouple may be located within the projectile, and an electronic coupler may be coupled to the thermocouple, and extends through the case and the sleeve and exits the sleeve through a slot for coupling to a data acquisition system.