Novel Actuation Technologies for Guided Precision Munitions

The primary objective of this project is to study the feasibility of a number of novel actuator technology concepts that are particularly suitable for gun-fired projectiles and mortars. These novel actuator concepts will require minimal electrical power for their operation; they are very lightweight and occupy small volume, while being capable of providing high control authority to the guidance and control system of the guided munitions. As a result, the guidance and control system of a projectile equipped with the proposed actuation devices should be capable of achieving significantly enhanced precision for both stationary and moving targets, thereby achieving significantly greater probability of hit. These actuation devices are capable of being integrated into the structure of the projectile, mostly as load bearing structural components, thereby occupying minimal and even no projectile volume. In addition, the actuation devices and their related components are better protected against high firing acceleration loads, vibration, impact loading, repeated loading and acceleration and deceleration cycles that can be experienced during transportation and loading operations. The actuation devices could be used on both subsonic and supersonic projectiles.