Dynamic ignition and ignition delay multi-mode fuse system

A method for classifying a target hardness and selection of an operational mode of a warhead for a warhead combating a target, said target hardness is determined from an electrical output signal generated by at least one target sensor in response to the rate of deceleration and the operational mode is settable by an operator, the method comprising:

• measuring a rise time of the electrical output signal,
• selecting a first mode of operation of the warhead if the rise time is below a rise time threshold,
• selecting a second mode of operation of the warhead if the rise time is above a rise time threshold and the warhead is set for the second mode of operation, and
• selecting a third mode of operation of the warhead if the rise time is above a rise time threshold and the warhead is set for the third mode of operation.

A multi-mode fuse system for use in a warhead for combating a target, said multi-mode fuse system comprising:

• at least one target sensor adapted to generate an electrical output signal in response to a rate of deceleration of the warhead and to provide electrical charge and electrical energy upon pressure from impact or from deceleration;
• a signal processing block electrically connected to the at least one target sensor and including a system for receiving and evaluating the electrical signal;
• a logic block comprising information regarding a decided operational mode;
• an I/O block configured to be set by an operator of the warhead, wherein the I/O block is adapted to provide an electrical signal to the logic block;
• wherein said multi-mode fuse system is adapted to discriminate a hardness of the target based upon the electrical output signal of said at least one target sensor and to select a mode of operation depending upon the target discrimination, wherein the multi-mode fuse system is adapted to discriminate at least one type of target depending upon said electrical output signal of said at least one target sensor, and wherein the multi-mode fuse system selects one of at least three modes of operation of the warhead.