Modeling and Simulation of Elevation Dynamics of Main Battle Tank Weapon System with Linear Graph Method

Abstract

The use of main battle tanks in armies goes back many years. The most crucial component is undoubtedly the weapon system. In this study, it is aimed to model the elevation dynamics of the weapon system that provides the movement of the weapon system in the vertical axis. The elevation dynamics consists of three parts: an electric motor, a driver, and a barrel. Both parts are expected to have similar vibration characteristics. The linear graph method was preferred as the modeling method. First of all, the system components and types were determined, and the linear graph, normal tree, and tree links of the system were drawn. Then the state variables, primary and secondary variables, as well as the number of branches, nodes, and sources, were determined, respectively. Elemental, continuity, and compatibility equations were written using the obtained graphs. By organizing these equations, state equations were obtained in standard form and matrix form. With the simulation studies carried out in MATLAB/Simulink, the displacement, velocity, and acceleration responses of the breech and muzzle sections were obtained. It is seen that obtained angular displacement, velocity, and acceleration results for both breech and muzzle sections are almost the same. As a result, the breech and muzzle sections have similar vibration motions and have proven to be able to work in harmony. This result shows that the barrel can be designed from two parts without additional stress and tension, which makes it difficult to focus on the target. By forming the barrel in two parts, the risk of damage can be minimized by better distributing the stress and tension occurring in the barrel during firing.