Application of an Inertial Reticle System to an Objective Personal Weapon.
Abstract
The Inertial Reticle System (IRS) is a novel fire control system that improves the accuracy of direct-fire weapons by stabilizing the aim point rather than the weapon. Miniature inertial sensors measure weapon motion and drive an electronically generated reticle in opposition so that it appears to remain fixed relative to the target. The system senses when the actual aim point will cross the inertial reticle and then fires the weapon. The U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL) has equipped small-caliber weapons such as an M16 and a sniper rifle with the IRS. An IRS on a pistol-sized Objective Personal Weapon (OPW) would help achieve the OPW accuracy goals by reducing weapon pointing error. In addition, by enabling a shooter to preselect an aim point and maintain it despite weapon motion, the IRS would reduce collateral damage and aid in immediate incapacitation. An OPW, equipped with inertial sensors and a video sight, might function much like the current IRS. The target could be viewed on a weapon or helmet-mounted display. Miniaturization of components is the greatest technical barrier to fitting the IRS on an OPW. However, progress in electronics and work in micromachines make application of the IRS to an OPW feasible.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA304367
Entities
People
- Mark Kregel
- Raymond Von Wahlde
- Tim Brosseau
- Tom Haug
Organizations
- United States Army Research Laboratory