EVALUATION OF WEAPON DYNAMICS AND WEAPON MOUNT DYNAMIC RESPONSE

Abstract

Evaluating the dynamic response of weapon systems is challenging. Measurements, typically estimated using accelerometers or laser-based sensors, require adequate full-scale and dynamic ranges to avoid errors. Weapon firings involve short-duration shock loads, where displacements and velocities, rather than accelerations, are of primary interest. Numerical integration of acceleration data can be inaccurate due to signal frequency response, integration strategy, and initial conditions. Placement constraints, such as thermal issues or cabling inaccessibility, further complicate sensor use, often requiring multiple accelerometers. To address these challenges, Flamengro has developed a Computer Vision (CV) algorithm to track full-field displacements using image markers. The algorithm determines marker positions and calculates displacements, while velocities and accelerations are obtained via numerical differentiation, eliminating integration risks and sensor placement limitations.