This disclosure generally relates to training rounds for performing indirect fire missions among other things.
Training troops for indirect fire missions include the usage of various simulated munitions, such as artillery, mortar, rockets, grenade launchers, and machine guns. The ammunition is either live ammunition or simulated ammunition. The simulated munitions are coupled with electronic components to achieve comprehensive training in indirect fire missions.
In one embodiment, a training round for performing indirect fire mission is disclosed. The training round includes a top end oriented towards a direction of projectile motion of the training round. A bottom end is situated opposite to the top end. The top end and the bottom end are separated by a first distance. An adjuster is arranged between the top end and the bottom end to adjust a length of the training round. The adjuster compresses such that the top end and the bottom end are separated by a second distance. The second distance is less than the first distance. A round sensor attached to the training round and communicatively couples to a simulation computer while performing the indirect fire training mission.
In another embodiment, a training round for performing indirect fire missions is disclosed. The training round includes a top end oriented towards a direction of projectile motion of the training round. A bottom end situated opposite to the top end. The top end and the bottom end are separated by a first distance. A telescopic assembly is situated between the top end and the bottom end to induce a telescopic movement between the top end and the bottom end, such that the top end and the bottom end are separated by a second distance. A weight of the top end induces the telescopic movement between the top end and the bottom end. A round sensor is attached to the training round to establish communicative coupling with a simulation computer during an execution of indirect fire missions.
In still embodiment, a training round for performing indirect fire missions is disclosed. The training round includes a projectile shell having a conical top oriented towards a direction of projectile motion of the training round. The projectile shell also an internal chamber having an orifice at a base of the projectile shell. The training round further comprises a stabilizing rod connected to the base of the projectile shell. The projectile shell and the stabilizing rod are separated by a first distance. A hydraulic system is situated between projectile shell and the stabilizing rod to adjust a length of the training round. The hydraulic system has a first tube fixedly connected to the projectile shell, a second tube fixedly connected to stabilizing rod and movably connected to the projectile shell, and a conduit for a transmission of a fluid between the first tube and the second tube. A telescopic movement is induced between the first tube and the second tube when the second tube moves inside the first tube. The projectile shell and the stabilizing rod are separated by a second distance upon induction of the telescopic movement. A round sensor is attached to the training round for establishing communicative coupling with a simulation computer during an execution of the indirect fire missions.
Further areas of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating various embodiments, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to necessarily limit the scope of the disclosure.
The present disclosure is described in conjunction with the appended figures:
In the appended figures, similar components and/or features may have the same reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a second alphabetical label that distinguishes among the similar components. If only the first reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components having the same first reference label irrespective of the second reference label.
The ensuing description provides preferred exemplary embodiment(s) only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the preferred exemplary embodiment(s) will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing a preferred exemplary embodiment. It is understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope as set forth in the appended claims.
Embodiments described herein are generally related to training systems and methods for indirect fire missions using mortar rounds equipped with advanced hydraulic or telescopic mechanisms, and communicative coupling with remote computers, aiming to simulate realistic firing conditions, enhance training effectiveness, and improve operational accuracy for military or defense personnel, among other things.
Referring to
Each of the training rounds 120-1, 120-2, 120-3 within the firing instrument 110 is equipped with a round sensor 130-1, 130-2, 130-3. The round sensors 130-1, 130-2, and 130-3 are attached to the training rounds to gather and transmit various data parameters related to the trajectory, position, orientation, and other relevant readings necessary for indirect fire missions.
The round sensors 130-1, 130-2, and 130-3 wirelessly communicate with troop equipment 140-1, 140-2. For example, the troop equipment 140-1, 140-2 is a handheld display device, held by troops on the training site 100 to receive real-time feedback and information related to the round sensors 130-1, 130-2, 130-3. Troops can view essential data, such as the position, orientation, and other readings associated with each training round, aiding in training effectiveness and tactical decision-making during indirect fire missions.
Additionally, the round sensors 130-1, 130-2, 130-3 establish wireless communication with a command center 150 equipped with a remote display 160. The remote display 160 at the command center 150 receives data transmitted by the round sensors 130-1, 130-2, 130-3. The data is further displayed on the remote display 160. The command center 150 acts as a centralized monitoring and coordination hub, providing comprehensive oversight of the performance and status of the training rounds 120-1, 120-2, 120-3 during the indirect fire missions.
A connectivity between the round sensors 130-1, 130-2, 130-3, troop equipment 140-1, 140-2, and the command center 150 is facilitated through wireless communication protocols, ensuring seamless transmission of data in real-time. The round sensors 130-1, 130-2, 130-3 collect and transmit information related to projectile movement, positioning within the firing instrument 110, type of round, fuse settings, and other relevant parameters.
In some embodiments, the round sensors 130-1, 130-2, and 130-3 communicate with the troop equipment 140-1, 140-2, and the command center 150 via a communication network that refers to a short-range communication network, for example, a Bluetooth™ communication network. In some embodiments, a specific distance of a preset communication distance may be set according to actual requirements, and the embodiments of the present application are not limited thereto. For example, in the case where the preset communication distance is 10 meters, the wireless communication network may be a Bluetooth™ communication network.
In some embodiments, the communication network may refer to a long-range network that uses wireless data connections for connecting network nodes, for example, Wi-Fi access points, and enabling telecommunications between network nodes. The cellular wireless communication network implements, for example, a long-term evolution (LTE) technology or 5G or satellite.
The above-described setup enables a synchronized and comprehensive training experience, empowering troops with real-time feedback on round behavior and performance during simulated indirect fire missions. The wireless connectivity and data transmission between the round sensors 130-1, 130-2, and 130-3 communicate with the troop equipment 140-1, 140-2, and the command center 150, ensuing seamless information flow, enhancing training effectiveness and operational readiness for military personnel.
Referring to
The top end 200 is oriented towards a direction of projectile motion of the training round 120. The top end 200 is defined by a projectile shell 230. The projectile shell 230 has an outer surface 240 and an internal chamber 250. The internal chamber 250 is depicted by dashed lines. The bottom end 210 defines a tailfin 260 that is movably connected to the projectile shell 230 via a connecting rod 270 (interchangeably referred to as stabilizing rod). The top end 200 and the bottom end 210 are separated by a first distance. In some embodiments, the projectile shell 230 has a conical top oriented towards the direction of projectile motion of the training round 120. The projectile shell 230 further includes an internal chamber having an orifice facing the bottom end.
In some embodiments, the outer surface 240 of the projectile shell 230 has a diameter in a range from 30 millimeters (mm) to 150 mm. In some embodiments, the outer surface 240 of the projectile shell 230 has a diameter in a range from 40 mm to 140 mm. In some embodiments, the outer surface 240 of the projectile shell 230 has a diameter in a range from 50 mm to 130 mm. In some embodiments, the outer surface 240 of the projectile shell 230 has a diameter in a range from 60 mm to 120 mm. In some embodiments, the outer surface 240 of the projectile shell 230 has a diameter in a range from 70 millimeters (mm) to 110 mm. In some embodiments, the outer surface 240 of the projectile shell 230 has a diameter in a range from 80 mm to 100 mm. In some embodiments, the outer surface 240 of the projectile shell 230 has a diameter of 90 mm.
The adjuster 220 is situated between the top end 200 and the bottom end 210 to adjust a length of the training round 120. The adjuster 220 compresses such that the top end 200 and the bottom end 210 are separated by a second distance, and the second distance is less than the first distance as shown in
Referring to
The precise positioning of the training round 120-1 in this phase indicates a pre-firing state, where the adjuster 220 is yet to undergo compression. As a result, neither the top end 200 nor the bottom end 210 of the training round 120-1 has been engaged inside the firing instrument 110-1. The adjuster 220 maintains a specific separation between the top end 200 and the bottom end 210 of the round.
Referring to
This compression is triggered by the tailfin 260 contacting the base 310, causing the adjuster 220 to compress and reduce a separation distance between the top end 200 and the bottom end 210 of the training round 120-1. In essence, the compression of the adjuster 220 induces a telescopic movement between the top end 200 and the bottom end 210 of the training round 120-1. The telescopic movement refers to a controlled reduction in a length of the training round 120-1, facilitated by the compressive action of the adjuster 220.
A combination involving a weight of the projectile shell 230 and a force of gravity contributes significantly to the compression action observed upon the engagement of the bottom end. As the tailfin 260 makes contact with the base 310 due to gravitational forces acting on the top end 200 of the training round 120-1 and the weight of the projectile shell, the adjuster 220 compresses. In other words, the gravitational pull, combined with a mass of the projectile shell 230, exerts pressure on the adjuster 220, causing it to compress gradually.
The compression of the adjuster 220 is a result of a downward force exerted by the weight of the projectile shell 230. In some embodiments, the weight of the projectile shell 230 is in a range from 8 kilograms (kg) to 16 kg. In some embodiments, the weight of the projectile shell 230 is in a range from 9 kg to 15 kg. In some embodiments, the weight of the projectile shell 230 is in a range from 10 kg to 14 kg. In some embodiments, the weight of the projectile shell 230 is in a range from 11 kg to 13 kg. In some embodiments, the weight of the projectile shell 230 is 13 kg.
Referring to
In this phase, the tailfin of the first round, 120-1 makes contact with the base 310 of the barrel 300, firmly establishing its position and initiating a compression sequence. Likewise, the tailfin of the second round, 120-2, makes contact with the top end of the first round, while the tailfin of the third round, 120-3, contacts the top end of the second round, forming a vertically stacked configuration. In other words, a barrel 300 can be filled with only one training round, which does not have a feature of length adjustment. However, with the feature of length adjustment more than one training round can be stacked one over the other inside the barrel. The compressed configuration allows for multiple rounds to be positioned within the barrel simultaneously. This setup facilitates consecutive firing simulations without the need to empty the barrel after each round is fired during a simulation. Consequently, troops can conduct continuous training exercises, enhancing proficiency and readiness.
In some embodiments, the adjuster 220 includes a spring arrangement to control a movement between the top end 200 and the bottom end 210. For example, the spring arrangement may function as a shock absorber to minimize sudden movements during compression and expansion, ensuring smoother and controlled movement between the top end and the bottom end. Moreover, when the adjuster 220 disengages or decompresses, the spring mechanism may de-actuate the adjuster 220 to bring back the adjuster to a pre-compression state.
Referring to
Specifically, the first tube 410 is associated with the top end 200 of the training round 120, while the second tube 420 is linked to the bottom end 210. This arrangement signifies the initial phase where the adjuster 220 remains uncompressed, allowing the tubes to exist independently without telescopic movement or alignment.
The non-compressed state of the hydraulic system 400-1 denotes that the second tube 420 is not moved or inserted inside the first tube 410. As a result, there is no induced telescopic movement between the first tube 410 and the second tube 420.
In some embodiments, the adjuster 220 includes a locking mechanism to secure a length adjustment of the training round when fielded. For example, the locking mechanism could be a latch, pin, or a clamping system designed to secure adjusted positions of the second tube with respect to the first tube or with other components within the adjuster 220.
In some embodiments, the adjuster 220 includes 200 a mechanism to adjust the length of the training round variably and in accordance with simulation parameters. The mechanism allows for dynamic and variable adjustments to the length of the training round and enables operators to modify the size of the training round 120, extending or retracting it as necessary during training simulations.
Referring to
The hydraulic system 400-2 responds to external forces by inducing the telescopic movement between the first tube 410 and the second tube 420. The telescopic movement alters an overall length of the training round, adjusting the training round to a shorter configuration due to the compression. In some embodiments, the hydraulic system 400-2 includes a regulator to control the transmission of the fluid for selective adjustment of the length of the training round.
Referring to
The design of the top housing 510, serves as a housing unit capable of receiving and enclosing a segment of the bottom housing 520. This integration is made possible through the telescopic assembly 500, representing the collective arrangement formed by a section of the bottom housing 520 telescoping into the space provided within the top housing 510.
Upon engagement of the training round inside the barrel 300, a downward force acts upon the top housing 510 of the training round. The force is primarily attributed to the weight of the top housing 510 of the projectile shell 230, which, when inserted into the firing instrument 110, exerts a gravitational force downwards. As a consequence, a portion of the bottom housing 520 smoothly slides or fits into the hollow space of the top housing 510, forming a telescopic configuration as shown in
In some embodiments, the telescopic assembly 500 includes a combination of a pneumatic system and multiple mechanical linkages. The pneumatic system may include components such as air chambers, valves, and pneumatic actuators, while the mechanical linkages include gears, levers, or cams working in conjunction with the pneumatic system. For example, when the training round is inserted into the firing instrument 110, a pneumatic actuator is triggered, initiating the telescopic movement. The pneumatic system pressurizes, and the stored air pressure forces a piston or rod connected to mechanical linkages to move, initiating the telescopic action. In some embodiments, the telescopic assembly includes a mechanism to control the telescopic movement between the top end and the bottom end for adjusting the length of the training round at a predetermined level.
The telescopic assembly 500 adjusts the overall length or configuration of the training round and also allows controlled adjustments and variations in the length of the training round.
Specific details are given in the above description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it is understood that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, circuits may be shown in block diagrams in order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail. In other instances, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques may be shown without unnecessary detail in order to avoid obscuring the embodiments.
Implementation of the techniques, blocks, steps and means described above may be done in various ways. For example, these techniques, blocks, steps and means may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof. For a hardware implementation, the processing units may be implemented within one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), processors, controllers, micro-controllers, microprocessors, other electronic units designed to perform the functions described above, and/or a combination thereof.
Also, it is noted that the embodiments may be described as a process which is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a swim diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a depiction may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed, but could have additional steps not included in the figure. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination corresponds to a return of the function to the calling function or the main function.
Furthermore, embodiments may be implemented by hardware, software, scripting languages, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, and/or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, firmware, middleware, scripting language, and/or microcode, the program code or code segments to perform the necessary tasks may be stored in a machine readable medium such as a storage medium. A code segment or machine-executable instruction may represent a procedure, a function, a subprogram, a program, a routine, a subroutine, a module, a software package, a script, a class, or any combination of instructions, data structures, and/or program statements. A code segment may be coupled to another code segment or a hardware circuit by passing and/or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, and/or memory contents. Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc. may be passed, forwarded, or transmitted via any suitable means including memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc.
For a firmware and/or software implementation, the methodologies may be implemented with modules (e.g., procedures, functions, and so on) that perform the functions described herein. Any machine-readable medium tangibly embodying instructions may be used in implementing the methodologies described herein. For example, software codes may be stored in a memory. Memory may be implemented within the processor or external to the processor. As used herein the term “memory” refers to any type of long term, short term, volatile, nonvolatile, or other storage medium and is not to be limited to any particular type of memory or number of memories, or type of media upon which memory is stored.
Moreover, as disclosed herein, the term “storage medium” may represent one or more memories for storing data, including read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory, magnetic disk storage mediums, optical storage mediums, flash memory devices and/or other machine readable mediums for storing information. The term “machine-readable medium” includes, but is not limited to portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and/or various other storage mediums capable of storing that contain or carry instruction(s) and/or data.
While the principles of the disclosure have been described above in connection with specific apparatuses and methods, it is to be clearly understood that this description is made only by way of example and not as limitation on the scope of the disclosure.
This application is a non-provisional of and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/386,872, filed Dec. 9, 2022, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
Number | Date | Country | |
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63386872 | Dec 2022 | US |