Quote:
Originally Posted by Claves_Mortis
(Post 1978733)
Now my problem is, the main thing of this technique (at least as far as I understand the American subs) does not work for them: I can't do all the calculations for "when enemy is at my 0 degree", enter them and then have the torpedo-course-calculating-thing calculate it to the position where I am aming at. Instead I have to make measurements of where the target is RIGHT NOW, enter them and then activate the position keeper on that ship to have them calculated at the actual positon of the target. I can not just turn around my periscope and have the computer calculated the torpedo solution, firing when the target get's into my "crosshair"; it is not a static solution which I enter at any point and which is just calculated for where I aim. The worst thing for me is to know when to switch on / off the position keeper as I do not need that for the German Uboot. Also, I do not have to tell the computer / position keeper my values right at time or something, I can calculate them end enter them anytime (before I want to shoot), still having a correct (because static, only dependent on where I aim my periscope) solution.
So, long story short: My problem is not to get data about the enemy (calculating his speed, AoB, distance, etc. is all fine for me), but how to feed the American submarines with these information. On German Uboote it's just "calculate, enter, aim, fire" with - at long as the target does not pass the point where you can shoot it - no requirement of how / how fast / when to do these steps.
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I don't really know how the German equiptment works, but will try to help you with the USN versions.
First, understand the TDC position keeper was in reality, always on. People have come up with different styles where it is turned off for particular purposes, but it is not necessary to do this. The PK's function is to update the firing solution to account for the target's and sub's movement. Otherwise, the solution would only be good for the moment it is calculated. With the PK activated, the solution will be good until either the target changes course or speed, or the deviation between the target's true course/speed and your estimated values becomes significant.
Here I will suggest 2 different ways for you to try the TDC:
1. Turn the PK ON at the outset. Enter data into the TDC as you observe it. I would suggest speed first, AoB next, then range and bearing. It is important to enter bearing last as it will usually change more quickly. You will want to do a succession of observations to obtain good data. If you compare the TDC generated ranges/bearings to your observations you can see how good your solution tracks. You can launch torpedos at any time you are in range and you consider the set-up advantagous. Note that you can maneuver your sub for tactical advantage at any time. (The PK makes this possible.)
2. Turn OFF the PK. Observe and plot the target's course as you do with the U-boats. Enter in the data for the target's positon "when enemy is at my 0 degree", but keep the PK OFF. When the target actually is crossing your bow, turn the PK ON. Then you can launch on the target. (Really, if you launch quickly, you don't even need the PK.) In this way, you have at least broadly, your U-boat equiptment. This might seem more familier to you. Note, you must maintain course until the target crosses your bow, and cannot launch before that point.
I think you would be better off to use the method in 1., but the method in 2. should work ok.
I couldn't get it to work. I forget the details.
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