Predicting How to Hit a Moving Target.

  • Thread starter Unit978
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In summary, to calculate the necessary angle between the target and the turret to hit the target with a projectile, you will need to convert to polar coordinates and use the rate of change of θ as the turret tracks the target. This can be done by dividing the distance to the target by the linear velocity of the projectile and incorporating it into the angular equation using a derivative or integral. Alternatively, you can use the law of sines/cosines and work out the problem as a triangle. If further assistance is needed, it may be helpful to post the problem again and work it out with paper and pen.
  • #1
Unit978
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In a two dimensional ideal world without any external forces acting on an entity, if i were to have a turret that fires projectiles at a known velocity towards a moving target at a certain distance away at an angle with respect to the x-axis, what calculation would be needed to compute the angle necessary between the target and the turret to hit the target with the projectile.
 
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  • #2
Can you write down a formula for the distance to the target from the launcher's starting position as a function of time?
 
  • #3
Go polar?

Depending on what your velocity function looks like, you'll probably want to convert to polar coordinates, as it makes it easier to find the rate at which θ is changing as the turret tracks the target. r(t) and θ(t) Or just work it out as a triangle using law of sines/cosines. You'll need to divide r at time t by the linear velocity of the projectile, and figure that 'lead' into the angular equation. Might be a simple derivative or integral involved. Haven't thought it far enough through to say for sure.

If you're still stumped tonite, post up again and we can work it out on paper.
 

FAQ: Predicting How to Hit a Moving Target.

How do you predict where a moving target will be in the future?

To predict the future location of a moving target, you need to know the target's initial position, velocity, and acceleration. By using mathematical equations and principles, you can calculate the expected path of the target and determine where it will be at a given time.

What factors influence the accuracy of predicting a moving target?

The accuracy of predicting a moving target depends on several factors such as the target's speed, direction, and acceleration, as well as the accuracy of the initial data and the complexity of the target's motion. External factors such as wind and friction can also affect the accuracy of the prediction.

Can you predict the exact location of a moving target?

No, it is not possible to predict the exact location of a moving target due to the uncertainty principle in physics. The target's position and velocity cannot be determined simultaneously with 100% accuracy, so there will always be some level of uncertainty in the prediction.

How can you account for unexpected changes in a moving target's trajectory?

To account for unexpected changes in a moving target's trajectory, you can use advanced prediction algorithms that continuously update their calculations based on new data. This allows for more accurate predictions even in the face of unpredictable changes in the target's motion.

What are some real-life applications of predicting how to hit a moving target?

Predicting how to hit a moving target has various practical applications, such as in sports, military operations, and robotics. In sports, it can be used to predict the trajectory of a ball or a player's movement. In the military, it can aid in targeting and tracking moving objects. In robotics, it can help autonomous vehicles navigate and avoid obstacles.

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