초록 ▼

A comparative dual-control strategy actuates forward and aft control devices simultaneously to significantly improve a missile's maneuverability/dynamic capability. A substantial, and measurable, operational effect of the inventive control strategy is a dramatic improvement in a missile's divert cap

A comparative dual-control strategy actuates forward and aft control devices simultaneously to significantly improve a missile's maneuverability/dynamic capability. A substantial, and measurable, operational effect of the inventive control strategy is a dramatic improvement in a missile's divert capability. To effect a maneuver in accordance with the inventive strategy, a missile's aft fins are initially deflected to generate a force OPPOSITE that conventionally used (pushing the missile's tail in the direction of the commanded maneuver) which simultaneously actuating forward thrusters to also push the missile's nose in the direction of the commanded maneuver but at a faster rate than the tail section. This causes the missile body to simultaneously rotate and translate in the direction of the commanded maneuver. Once a sufficient amount of aerodynamic force develops due to body rotation, the aft fins are deflected to generate a force that opposes the commanded maneuver to maintain a moment on the missile body and complete the commanded maneuver. An important benefit of cooperative dual-control strategy is that the missile begins to translate in the direction of the commanded maneuver immediately (conventional isolated aft control schemes do not accomplish this) and at a faster rate than is possible with either isolated forward control devices or an intuitive dual-control approach.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [15.]15. A method of maneuvering a vehicle, moving in a fluid medium, toward a direction of a commanded maneuver, said vehicle having:(i) a forward portion and a forward control device, and(ii) an aft portion and an aft control device, said method comprising:actuating said for

[ What is claimed is:] [15.]15. A method of maneuvering a vehicle, moving in a fluid medium, toward a direction of a commanded maneuver, said vehicle having:(i) a forward portion and a forward control device, and(ii) an aft portion and an aft control device, said method comprising:actuating said forward control device to generate a forward control force, acting on said forward portion, said forward control force having a component acting in a direction that is substantially the same as the direction of the commanded maneuver; andactuating said aft control device to generate a first aft control force, acting upon said aft portion, said first aft control force having a component acting in a direction that is substantially the same as the direction of the commanded maneuver;wherein said forward control force is generated for a first period of time, wherein said first aft control force is generated for a second period of time, and wherein a major portion of said second period of time overlaps a major portion of said first period of time. .Iaddend..Iadd.