Fin buzz system and method for assisting in unlocking a missile fin lock mechanism

摘要

By removing the aerodynamic fin forces from the fin lock mechanism, achieved by actuating the fin control system to apply a controlled force that counters the aerodynamic forces acting on the control fins, the system can reduce the transmission of aerodynamic forces onto the fin lock mechanism, which makes the fin lock mechanism easier to unlock with less force. Accordingly, a method for unlocking a fin lock mechanism that releasably holds one or more missile control fins in a locked position, where the control fins are prevented from rotating, includes the steps of (i) applying an alternating positive and negative rotational force to a control fin; (ii) monitoring the position of the control fin during the applying step; and (iii) while the position of the control fin does not exceed a predetermined value, repeating the applying step for a predetermined number of times or for a predetermined period.

主权项

1. A method for unlocking a fin lock mechanism that releasably holds one or more missile control fins in a locked position where the control fins are prevented from rotating, the method comprising the steps of:
initiating application of a force to rotate a missile control fin to a desired orientation; detecting the failure of the control fin to rotate to the desired orientation; following foregoing initiating and detecting steps, applying an alternating positive and negative rotational force to the control fin; monitoring the position of the control fin during the applying step; and until the position of the control fin exceeds a predetermined value, repeating the applying step a predetermined number of times or for a predetermined period.