Vehicle Hard Point Net Subsystem RPG Intercept
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current countermeasures for Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs) are ineffective, expensive, complex, and unreliable, and existing armor systems are heavy, difficult to install, and do not prevent detonation, posing a persistent threat to military vehicles and structures.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, flexible net subsystem with spaced rods or hard points is deployed to intercept and dud RPGs by digging into the nose cone, preventing detonation, and is easily installable and removable, with a low vehicle signature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If static armor such as bar/slat armor is used to protect against RPGs, then protection effectiveness is improved, but vehicle weight increases significantly making it difficult to maneuver and consume excessive fuel
Solution Approach 1:
The protective system is divided into discrete hard points distributed across the vehicle rather than using continuous heavy armor. Each hard point is a separate component that can be independently positioned to intercept RPG warheads, eliminating the need for heavy continuous plating while maintaining protection effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
Protection is applied locally at specific intercept points rather than uniformly across the entire vehicle. The hard points are strategically positioned where RPG warheads are most likely to impact, providing targeted protection without the weight penalty of comprehensive full-coverage armor.
2Reliability
If bar/slat armor is installed to prevent RPG detonation, then protection effectiveness is improved, but installation complexity and time requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The armor system is segmented into modular hard point components that can be independently manufactured and then assembled onto the vehicle. This modular approach simplifies installation compared to installing continuous bar/slat armor, as each hard point can be separately mounted and adjusted to the required positions.
3Weight of moving object
If chain link fence type shields are used to intercept RPGs, then weight is reduced compared to bar/slat armor, but the shields are not sufficiently compliant to prevent detonation and remain fairly heavy
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using extensive chain link fencing, the system uses localized hard points positioned at critical intercept locations. These discrete hard points provide sufficient compliance and protection effectiveness without requiring the heavy continuous fencing structure, thereby reducing overall weight while maintaining reliability.
4Reliability
If heavy static armor is added to protect against RPGs, then protection effectiveness is improved, but vehicle maneuverability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the protective system into discrete hard points rather than using continuous heavy armor, the total weight is significantly reduced. This segmentation allows the vehicle to maintain its original maneuverability characteristics while still providing effective RPG protection through the distributed hard point intercept system.
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 system effectively duds RPGs with an effectiveness of 60-70%, outperforming traditional armor systems in terms of weight, cost, and ease of installation, while maintaining a low vehicle signature and preventing detonation.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of hard points spaced apart from one another on a flexible net subsystem... configured to impact a projectile striking the net
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle and structure shield hard point includes a forward facing base portion defined by a front face, sidewalls extending rearward from the front face including slots therethrough for the cords of a net, and a cavity surrounded by the sidewalls. A plug is sized to be frictionally received in the cavity of the forward facing base portion locking the cords of the net with respect to the forward facing base portion.