Author_Institution :
Rankin Group, Tustin, CA, USA
Abstract :
To meet the size/performance and cost-driven goals required for more advanced projectile and mortar applications, IEC focused its efforts on function consolidation, electronic signal protection, ultra-deep sensor integration, and processing stability. IEC´s development has been in the utilization of silicon-based micro-machine technology for the inertial sensor, high levels of processor integration, and hardware function consolidation, making the guidance package inherently immune to the vibration and high G shock effects of the launch. In addition, the size and power are sufficiently reduced to fit the constraints of the fuse well. While a GPS “only”-based guidance system seemed an ideal solution for the lowest cost implementation of smart weapon guidance, the potential for signal jamming meant that a GPS “only” solution would not be able to guide the projectile to the target. To resolve this limitation, an anti-jam (AJ) capability had to be incorporated into the GPS receiver, and a miniature on-board inertial measurement unit (IMU) had to be part of the system. Initial laboratory tests have proven that the GPS/inertial guidance system, enhanced with a robust, low-cost AJ subsystem, performs consistently well under simulated battlefield conditions
Keywords :
Global Positioning System; economics; electronic countermeasures; inertial navigation; jamming; missile guidance; projectiles; GPS guidance; GPS/inertial guidance; IEC; anti-jam capability; cost; electronic signal protection; high G shock effects; inertial sensor; miniature on-board inertial measurement unit; projectile accuracy; signal jamming; Electric shock; Electronics packaging; Global Positioning System; Hardware; IEC; Mortar; Projectiles; Protection; Signal processing; Stability;