Segmented projectile with de-spun joint

Abstract

A projectile which would ordinarily be a spinning artillery shell is segmented so that the forward segment can be deflected relative to the rear segment for aerodynamic directional corrections in flight. Fins provide the projectile spin and a motor in the rear segment rotates an angle drive means with a velocity equal and opposite to the rotation of the rear segment, so that the angle drive means can establish an angle which has a fixed orientation on an earth coordinate reference frame despite the spinning of one or both portions of the projectile. Ground or sea-based radio and radar communications or an on-board roll reference system continuously communicates with the projectile, informing it of its own rotation rate and providing command signals for the nose deflection needed to establish the proper real-time trajectory correction. The weight, weight distribution, and configuration of the aerodynamic surfaces of each of the segments are coordinated such that the net lift vector substantially aligns with the center of mass to minimize in-flight torque forces at the joint.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.