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<p>A study of the PHALANX CLOSE-IN WEAPON SYSTEM's (CIWS) Mkl49 round and the M6lAl Gatling gun focused on modeling the various design factors that influence projectile trajectory and accuracy. The PHALANX currently experiences random and variable dispersion values which can diminish the PHALANX' ability to destroy incoming targets. The focus of the analysis was on determining and understanding the dynamical modes of oscillation and forced response dynamics. A model of the PHALANX' M6lAl Gatling gun was developed in great detail and its normal modes of vibration and natural frequencies were computed. Because dynamic response is comprised of modal responses, it is critical that the modes of the gun are understood. Various. excitation forces were applied, simulating a range of firing bursts, and displacements of the firing barrel were recorded in all translational directions. Animation of the normal modes of vibration indicate that PHALANX' six-barrel system plays a significant role in the lower order normal modes, and possibly the most significant contribution to dispersion. Also, results of the dynamic response reveal barrel tip displacements, that are consistent with well documented dispersion values. The FEM provides a timely method to evaluate proposed design modifications and subsequent analysis. This model will be valuable as part of the Optimized Barrel Design project currently underway.
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<br>Subjects: Finite element method and theory; Mechanical vibration; Phalanx CIWS; Normal modes; Dispersion; Forced response; Frequency response; Transient response</div>
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MacNeil, Donald P.</div>
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