Weapon Link Deflector Flap with Ball Joint and Slide Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual-feed weapons with link deflector devices face issues where links ejected from one port obstruct the other ejection route, leading to potential firing incidents due to restricted space and fixed deflector installation challenges.
Innovation Solution
A link deflector device with a deflector flap connected via a ball joint and horizontal slide connection between two ejection orifices, allowing the flap to pivot and translate to prevent obstruction, ensuring unimpeded ejection of links from either channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed deflector is installed between ejection ports, then link ejection is directed away from the other port, but the restricted space between ejection ports complicates installation and the deflector cannot adapt to dynamic ejection patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the deflector flap movable rather than fixed. The flap is articulated to the weapon structure and can pivot dynamically in response to link ejection forces. This allows the deflector to adapt its position automatically during operation, optimizing link redirection while accommodating the restricted space between ejection ports without complex installation requirements.
2Productivity
If links are ejected from one port, then they are directed towards the other port by fixed deflectors, but this causes accumulation and obstruction of the ejection path
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the 'blessing in disguise' principle by utilizing the kinetic energy and directional force of ejected links, which would normally cause obstruction, to actively push the deflector flap into its proper deflecting position. The harmful impact of links against a fixed deflector is converted into a beneficial self-actuating mechanism that optimizes link redirection and prevents accumulation in the ejection path.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable flap dynamically adjusts its position based on the force and direction of incoming links, creating an adaptive system that redirects links away from the other ejection port while preventing accumulation. This dynamic adjustment eliminates the obstruction problem that occurs with fixed deflectors.
3Area of stationary object
If a fixed deflector is used to redirect links, then space requirements are minimized, but the deflector cannot adapt to different ejection conditions and may cause obstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by implementing a movable, articulated deflector flap that maintains a compact footprint while adapting to different ejection conditions. The flap's ability to pivot and reposition itself allows it to handle varying link ejection patterns, forces, and directions without requiring additional space, thus maintaining adaptability within the constrained area between ejection ports.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (8) for deflecting links intended to equip a turret equipped with a weapon with a dual-feed for ammunition belts formed by links. This device is characterised in that it comprises a deflector flap (9) that is intended to be disposed between two orifices for ejecting links out of the turret, which flap is intended to be connected to the weapon by a fixing means comprising a ball joint connection (12) disposed towards the front of the weapon, and a horizontal slide connection (13) disposed towards the rear of the weapon. The invention also relates to a turret equipped with such a deflector.