High Speed Projectile Sensor: Design, Development and System Engineering

Chronography is a muzzle velocity and position sensor for a small metallic projectile (bullet) used for the military training purpose. We report on design, development, and performance testing of a conductor-insulator-conductor (CIC) sensory panel integrated with chronograph hardware and portable bullet speedometer. The established system is capable of dual recharging by alternating current mains as well as by battery support. The sensory mechanism is based on a short circuit voltage pulse developed while onset passage of the bullet from the screens. The pulse time is suitably registered, transferred, and communicated to a data storage unit interfaced to a multiport readout using the developed hardware. The whole sensor circuitry was, initially, simulated followed by optimization and final assembly of the hardware. Moreover, measured read out is taken onto a handheld speedometer with a capability to connect to personnel computer/laptop or cell phone using a state-of-the-art wireless fidelity communication interface. Three-dimensional printing technology was used to package the integrated sensor, after finalizing isometric engineering drawings. Details of fabrication, integration, and performance evaluation is demonstrated. System is real time, portable, power, and cost effective. Sensor is capable to measure the muzzle velocity ~1000 m/s more than 98% accuracy when compared with a standard doppler radar and an acoustic sensor. Details are presented.