The ballistics processor of a multiple processor airborne tactical system

Abstract

This thesis developed the ballistics processor of a multiple processor airborne tactical system. The multiple processor system consisted of three INTEL-8080 microcomputers: the executive processor, the navigational processor and the ballistics processor. The ballistics processor utilized a general second order Runge-Kutta method of integration of the equations of motion of unguided air-to-surface weapons. The ballistics processor computed sufficiently accurate and timely solutions to enable the executive processor to extrapolate an accurate release point for the weapon. The algorithm permitted complete flexibility in release conditions and allowed a complete arsenal of air-to-surface weapons currently carried on the A7-E aircraft. The cost of the ballistics processor using current "off the shelf" components is $1635 and the entire tactical system was estimated to cost $3891.