Miniature Actuator Controls for 40mm Guided and Surveillance Projectiles

The objective of this project is to design and develop an innovative miniature actuation system for use in a 40mm guided, extended flight, surveillance projectile. Included in the design will be a miniature control and actuation system, an on-board surveillance system, and an on-board autopilot system to control the projectile autonomously. All components will be tested to withstand gun launch parameters of 4,000 psi, and 22,000 gs. This effort will utilize economical and innovative approaches to achieve the proper control authority including but not limited to, collapsible air foils, miniaturized actuated control surfaces, and folding props coupled to a miniature brushless motor. There is a need for a rapidly deployable, extended range, surveillance projectile for use on the battlefield to allow the war-fighter to locate and engage targets at extended ranges in potentially dangerous environments. Furthermore, the rapid deployment and ease of use will make it a candidate in any scenario where aerial surveillance is needed such as law enforcement, wilderness rescue operations, or natural disaster response. This solution will provide a portable, low cost alternative to full scale aerial reconnaissance vehicles.