Armature Design Recommendations Based on Action Parameters

Force resolution over a C-armature reveals a large Lorentz force that acts to push the armature into rails. Large contact forces lead to a multitude of problems and efficiency losses. This article introduces a set of new parameters called action parameters (APs): armature action and action constant. These parameters optimize armature–rail (A/R) contact force to desired levels and improve muzzle velocity and launcher efficiency. The kinetic energy increases by 7.56 times for the case considered in this article. However, issues regarding loss of compliance and contact force fluctuations arising from optimizing C-armature unveil the need to develop a new armature design. It is recommended that the new armature should have a monolithic design, mechanical load carrying capacity, compliance, and a short current path. Such a hybrid armature design is proposed, and the design process is described.