There are few applications that have been widely in use in the defence industry.
Gun barrel alignment
There are a number of methods used to check the straightness of small and large gun barrels. An optical system designed and manufactured by Taylor Hobson provides a simple but accurate solution to the difficulties associated with checking the straightness of tank and gun barrels.
Due to gravitational forces, gun barrels have a natural tendency to droop; in addition, a certain amount of ‘bend’ is present, caused during the machining and manufacturing processes. To ensure a true trajectory of the shell when the gun is fired, manufacturers must measure and record the ‘droop’ and ‘bend’ for which compensation can be made.
Torpedo tube alignment
An easy-to-operate method of checking the straightness and diameter of torpedo tubes to within an accuracy of 0.05 mm (0.002 in). This method also eliminates the use of long, cumbersome plug gauges and the need to dry dock the vessel whilst the checks are carried out.
Periscope alignment
Periscopes are the eyes of a submarine. A periscope that is operating in misaligned bearings needs more power in the motors to overcome this resistance.
The resultant power surge results in a higher noise level being generated which can be easily detected by enemy search craft.
Aircraft weapons alignment
The effectiveness of the navigational/ attack system of fighter aircraft depends on the accurate alignment of all systems to the aircraft’s longitudinal fuselage datum (LFD).
Checks need to be made after a front windscreen change or removal of the nose cone or following any disturbance to the pilot’s display unit, a platform navigation system, or radar.
To know more, please check Taylor Hobson.
