Dynamic Decoupling Fixture

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) will develop a Dynamic Decoupling Fixture (DDF) that maintains the M1A2 Abrams Tank’s Gunner Primary Sight (GPS) boresighting accuracy during normal vehicle operations and then decouples to reduce accelerations during ballistic impacts. The DDF consists of a sub-micron accuracy kinematic coupling paired with a detent system that keeps the GPS boresighted during normal vehicle operations. During a ballistic impact the GPS de-couples from the kinematic fixture briefly, allowing a spring-damper assembly to dissipate the impact energy which would otherwise damage carefully calibrated optics. After it absorbs the energy, the fixture returns to its pre-impact state with micro-radian accuracy, allowing rapid return to firing readiness. During the Phase 1 program, PSI will design a spring-damper system that attenuates the loading from ballistic impacts to below 200g over 0.5ms half-sine. The GPS will be located in all six degrees-of-freedom with a highly-repeatable kinematic mount that provides main gun boresighting retention within 50 microradians. During the Phase II program PSI will manufacture the isolator designed in Phase I and subject two prototypes to in-house impact testing. Once those test results have been incorporated, the isolator will be installed into an Abrams turret and subjected to a live-fire test.