US Government As Represented by the Secretary of the Army

T Gordon Brown

Thomas E Harkins

Lyle D Kayser

An active damping method and a self-contained active damping system that can be retrofitted to existing rockets are provided which for reducing the dispersion of rockets by using lateral thrusters to oppose any initial yawing motion. The self-contained system of the present invention can be installed in a cylindrical section of a rocket body by insertion between other flight body parts.

System and method for reducing dispersion of small rockets

A fold-out fin has a fin geometry defined by two cross-sectional cuts through the cylindrical projectile body, both cuts being parallel to the boattail surface. This geometry insures that the stowed fin assembly fits within the gun tube. This geometry also exhibits low drag and good aerodynamic behavior. Upon launch, the fins are deployed and then locked in the fully open position with a spring loaded pin.

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Abingdon, MD, United States of America

T Gordon Brown