MEMS-Based Sensor System for Gun Tubes

The targeting accuracy of mortar rounds is critically dependent on obtaining accurate gun barrel azimuth and elevation data to feed to the fire control system. Current barrel attitude determination is not sufficiently accurate and requires manual readouts. Creare proposes to build a sensor for the determination of azimuth and elevation using novel MEMS rate gyros and inclinometers. These highly accurate sensing elements will meet or exceed required accuracy of 1 to 3 mils. The sensor will be packaged in a rugged enclosure that will fit directly onto the barrel and only needs a few minutes of sensor data integration before azimuth accuracy is achieved. We have also developed instrumentation and methods to provide high rate data even after a mortar round has been fired and the barrel may have moved either from the blast or from repositioning. During Phase I, Creare developed modeling capabilities and performed key tests to prove the feasibility of our design. During Phase II, we plan to develop, build, test, and deliver complete field-ready prototypes.