Weapon System Control Handle With Selective Switching Circuitry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern combat arms often deploy multiple weapons systems on a single platform, requiring separate operation and control apparatuses for each, which can be cumbersome for a single operator to manage effectively.
Innovation Solution
A single control assembly handle with integrated electrical circuitry and switchable components allows an operator to select and control multiple weapons systems using a single point of control, including a cursor for positioning, switches for functionality selection, and safety features like a palm switch, all while conforming to existing mechanical and electrical systems without modification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate control apparatuses are used for each weapons system, then each weapons system can be controlled independently, but the operator must manage multiple control devices which increases operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate control apparatuses into a single integrated control handle that can selectively control multiple weapons systems. The control handle includes a receiver that can establish communication with different weapons systems, and a control circuit that routes control signals to the selected system, thereby reducing the number of physical control devices from multiple separate handles to one unified device.
Solution Approach 2:
The control handle is designed as a universal control device that can interface with multiple different types of weapons systems. It includes a selector switch for choosing between different weapons systems, and the control circuitry is configured to recognize and control the selected system, making a single device perform the function of multiple specialized controls.
2Ease of operation
If a single control assembly is used for multiple weapons systems, then the operator can control multiple systems from one point, but the control assembly must incorporate switchable components and circuitry to manage different systems
Solution Approach 1:
The control handle is segmented into distinct functional modules: a receiver for wireless communication, a selector switch for choosing weapons systems, a control circuit for signal routing, and a transmitter for sending control signals. This modular segmentation allows the single control device to manage multiple weapons systems through organized, separable functional components rather than a monolithic complex design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the control assembly conforms to existing mechanical and electrical systems, then integration is seamless, but the design is constrained by pre-existing form factors and connection interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The control handle is designed to conform to existing weapon station form factors and electrical interfaces, allowing it to integrate with multiple different weapons systems without requiring custom modifications to each system. The universal design includes standardized connection interfaces and communication protocols that enable seamless integration across different platforms while maintaining a consistent user interface.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus. The apparatus includes electrical circuitry for selectably controlling a first and a second weapon system different from the first weapon system. The electrical circuitry includes a first switch including a first pole and a second pole. The apparatus also includes a first connector having a first terminal coupled to a common terminal of the first pole. A second connector has a first terminal coupled to a common terminal of the second pole. The first connector is configured to couple to a first weapon system mounted on a mobile platform; and the second connector is configured to couple to a second weapon system mounted on the mobile platform. The first weapons system is configured to operate when the first switch is in a first position and the second weapon system is configured to operate when the first switch is in a second position.