Marine portable electromagnetic ejection throwing device
By using a portable electromagnetic catapult, which combines electromagnetic acceleration and automated aiming, the problems of distance, accuracy, safety and portability of traditional catapults are solved. It enables long-distance, high-precision launching and rapid deployment, adapts to complex sea conditions and simplifies the operation process.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511267590.9
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-09-05
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-11
AI Technical Summary
Traditional throwing methods have short delivery distances, poor accuracy, poor safety, weak environmental adaptability, insufficient system portability and rapid deployment capabilities, and are complex to operate and dependent on personnel experience.
It adopts a portable electromagnetic catapult launcher, including a catapult power module, a precision positioning module, a rope integration module, and a support and display control module. It uses electromagnetic force to achieve precise acceleration, and combines laser rangefinding and environmental sensors to automatically adjust the trajectory. It provides a modular design and an integrated human-machine interface.
It achieves long-distance, high-precision casting, eliminates safety hazards, adapts to complex sea conditions, simplifies operating procedures, and improves emergency response speed and portability.
Smart Images

Figure CN120922318A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of marine equipment technology, and in particular to a portable electromagnetic catapult launcher for marine use. Background Technology
[0002] Vessels navigating and operating at sea often face emergency rescue needs in adverse sea conditions, such as rescuing people who have fallen overboard, transporting supplies to distressed vessels, and establishing emergency communication links. Marine throwers are marine equipment used to establish emergency communication links during rescue operations. Their core function is to throw a towing rope toward a target when a vessel is in distress or requires emergency rescue, thereby establishing an initial life-saving or supply transport channel. They can be used for ship-to-ship rescue, ship-to-shore rescue, shore-to-ship rescue, and rescue of people who have fallen overboard.
[0003] Traditional launching methods, such as manual launching, gunpowder-assisted launching devices, or high-pressure pneumatic catapults, have many drawbacks. Manual launching has a short range, poor accuracy, and is greatly affected by the environment. Gunpowder-assisted launching methods pose safety hazards, are inconvenient to store, and may be subject to international maritime regulations. High-pressure pneumatic catapults are easily affected by ambient temperature, and the consistency of the initial launch velocity and energy is poor, resulting in unstable launching accuracy.
[0004] Electromagnetic catapult technology has advantages such as smooth acceleration, high controllability, and precise energy adjustment, and has been applied in fields such as aviation. However, there is currently no mature solution for applying it to portable marine launching equipment and solving a series of problems such as accurate positioning, environmental adaptability, system portability, and rapid deployment. To address this, we propose a portable marine electromagnetic catapult launcher. Through multi-module collaboration and intelligent control, it achieves a balance of safety, accuracy, portability, and environmental adaptability, significantly improving the response speed and operational efficiency of maritime emergency rescue. Summary of the Invention
[0005] This invention provides a portable electromagnetic catapult launcher for ships, which solves the problems of short delivery distance and poor accuracy of traditional launching methods, poor safety and usage limitations of traditional launchers, weak environmental adaptability of traditional launchers, insufficient portability and rapid deployment capability of traditional launcher systems, and complex operation and reliance on personnel experience of traditional launchers. It features long delivery distance, high accuracy, good safety, strong environmental adaptability, easy portability and rapid deployment.
[0006] The present invention provides the following solution to the above-mentioned technical problems: A portable electromagnetic catapult launcher for marine use, comprising a catapult power module, a precision positioning module, a rope integration module, and a support and control module. The catapult power module includes an energy storage unit, a pulse power converter, a catapult guide rail, and an armature. The precision positioning module includes an integrated aiming unit, an environmental sensor, and a main control computing unit. The rope integration module includes a launch body, a traction rope, and a buffer anchoring device. The support and control module includes a portable tripod, a human-machine interface, and a power management and control system.
[0007] The usage method includes the following steps:
[0008] S1, System Deployment and Initialization: Set up a portable tripod base at a suitable location on the deck to ensure its stability, install the system host on the base and lock it, connect the power supply, start the system, and perform a self-test, including the energy storage unit power, sensor status, and whether the communication of each module is normal.
[0009] S2, Target aiming and parameter input: Through the human-machine interface, the operator selects the target mode, and the main control computing unit synchronously receives real-time wind speed and wind direction data from the environmental sensors;
[0010] S3, ballistic calculation and automatic adjustment: The main control calculation unit calculates the optimal launch azimuth, pitch angle and required launch velocity in real time based on target distance, wind speed and wind direction data, combined with the built-in ballistic model and the current ship's rolling period (which can be obtained through the built-in IMU or manually input). Then, the control system automatically drives the pitch and azimuth adjustment mechanism to adjust the launch guide rail to the calculated theoretical optimal launch angle.
[0011] S4, Energy loading and launch preparation: The pulse power converter calculates and loads the required pulse current energy parameters based on the calculated initial velocity, and prepares to charge the energy storage unit. The operator loads the projectile with the traction rope into the catapult rail and connects it to the armature. The system displays "Ready".
[0012] S5, launch and eject at the opportune time. The operator observes the "launch window" prompt provided by the system interface (this prompt is predicted by the main control unit based on the ship's swaying period). When the ship is in a relatively stable state, the operator confirms and issues the launch command. The high-power pulse current of the energy storage unit is instantly released to the winding of the ejection rail, generating a strong traveling wave magnetic field, which drives the armature and the projectile connected to it to accelerate along the rail until it is launched at the predetermined initial velocity.
[0013] S6, Rope Throwing and Connection Establishment: The projectile flies towards the target location along a precisely calculated trajectory. During flight or after reaching the target, the projectile can release the traction rope via a mechanical structure (such as a grounding switch) or remote control command. After personnel in the target area pick up the rope, an initial connection can be established for subsequent rescue or transport operations.
[0014] S7, Recovery and Reloading: After the mission is completed, the tow rope and reusable projectile can be recovered, and the system can be quickly reloaded in preparation for the next launch.
[0015] Based on the above technical solution, the present invention can be further improved as follows.
[0016] Furthermore, the energy storage unit employs a high-energy-density lithium battery pack or supercapacitor pack to store the electrical energy required for catapult launch. A pulse power converter is connected to the energy storage unit to convert the stored DC power into a high-power pulse current with a specific frequency and amplitude. The catapult guide rail is made of a non-magnetic, high-strength material (such as reinforced composite material or aluminum alloy) and has embedded linear motor stator windings. The armature, as the mover of the linear motor, uses solid or molten armature material and can be accelerated by electromagnetic force within the guide rail. Based entirely on electrical energy, it completely eliminates the risks of explosion and fire associated with traditional gunpowder-assisted propulsion, as well as the special requirements for transportation and storage. It meets the most stringent ship safety and environmental protection regulations. Through precise modulation of the pulse current via electronic control, millisecond-level, stepless adjustment of the initial velocity of the catapult can be achieved, which is impossible with mechanical or gunpowder-based catapults. This lays a solid foundation for precise positioning. The non-magnetic guide rail reduces energy loss, making the system more efficient. The modular design makes the power system compact and easy to maintain.
[0017] Furthermore, the integrated aiming unit employs an integrated laser rangefinder and visible light indicator for initial aiming and ranging. The environmental sensors include a miniature weather station for real-time measurement of wind speed and direction. The main control computing unit (MCU) receives data from the aiming unit and environmental sensors, incorporates a ballistic calculation algorithm, and comprehensively calculates the initial launch velocity, launch angle, and optimal launch timing to compensate for the effects of ship sway and ambient wind. This transforms the traditional aiming process, which relies on operator experience and intuition, into an automated process driven by sensors and computer algorithms, greatly improving aiming accuracy and reliability, reducing human error, and proactively sensing and compensating for wind drift, the most significant environmental factor affecting accuracy. This allows the system to maintain high delivery accuracy even in complex and harsh sea conditions. The calculation results from the main control unit provide operators with a scientific basis for decision-making, reducing the high demands on operators' professional skills, shortening training time, and improving emergency response speed.
[0018] Furthermore, the launcher features a streamlined design with a hollow interior to accommodate the wound traction rope. Its tail is rigidly connected to the armature or integrated into the design. The traction rope is made of low-elongation, high-strength synthetic fiber rope, pre-wound and stored in the launcher. The buffer anchoring device is located at the system base or rope exit, providing a counterforce at the moment of launch and ensuring smooth rope exit. The streamlined design directly improves aerodynamic performance and increases the effective range. The high-strength, low-elongation rope ensures a strong and reliable initial connection, providing a solid foundation for subsequent rescue or transport operations.
[0019] Furthermore, the portable tripod provides a stable launch platform and integrates elevation and azimuth adjustment mechanisms. These mechanisms are electrically connected to the main control computing unit and can automatically adjust the firing angle. The human-machine interface (HMI) is a waterproof touchscreen used to display aiming information, environmental parameters, and system status, and allows the operator to input target coordinates and confirm launch commands. The power management and control system comprehensively manages the power distribution and timing control of the entire system. The portable design meets the core requirement of "portability," and the automatic aiming function eliminates the tedious steps of manual rough aiming and fine adjustment, greatly shortening launch preparation time—crucial in time-sensitive rescue scenarios. The highly integrated touchscreen interface makes the operation process clear and simple, and the information presented is readily available, significantly reducing operational difficulty and mental burden.
[0020] Furthermore, in step S2, the target mode includes a coordinate input mode and a visual aiming mode. The coordinate input mode directly inputs the GPS coordinates of the target point, while the visual aiming mode uses the visible light indicator of the integrated aiming unit to emit a laser spot to indicate the target point. The laser rangefinder simultaneously measures the target distance, providing two aiming schemes suitable for different scenarios. The coordinate mode is suitable for distant or invisible targets (such as behind a mountain) and, combined with GPS, enables beyond-line-of-sight delivery. The visual mode is intuitive and fast and is suitable for visible targets. These two modes greatly expand the application scenarios and flexibility of the system.
[0021] Furthermore, in step S2, the main control computing unit synchronously receives real-time wind speed and wind direction data from the environmental sensors.
[0022] Furthermore, in step S3, the main control computing unit (MCU) executes the built-in ballistic calculation algorithm, the basic principle of which is to calculate the basic angle of attack under windless conditions, calculate the wind deflection compensation, and calculate the ship motion compensation.
[0023] Furthermore, in step S5, after receiving the launch command, the main control computing unit (MCU) immediately triggers the pulse power converter. The converter releases the high-voltage electrical energy stored in the energy storage unit into the stator winding of the linear motor of the catapult guide rail at a speed of milliseconds and in the form of precisely controlled pulse current. The traveling wave magnetic field generated in the winding interacts with the armature to generate a huge Lorentz force, which pushes the armature and the projectile fixed to it to accelerate linearly along the guide rail. Finally, it is launched at the end of the guide rail with a predetermined initial velocity (V0_req). The buffer anchoring device provides a reaction force at the moment of launch and ensures that the rope is pulled out smoothly and without tangling.
[0024] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: This invention provides a portable electromagnetic catapult launcher for ships, which has the following advantages:
[0025] 1. This solution addresses the problems of short delivery distance and poor accuracy associated with traditional throwing methods. Manual throwing is limited by the operator's physical strength and skill level, resulting in limited delivery distance and unreliable accuracy. Gunpowder-assisted and high-pressure pneumatic methods are greatly affected by environmental factors (such as temperature and humidity), leading to unstable initial velocity and large dispersion of impact points. This solution adopts electromagnetic catapult technology, which can achieve millisecond-level stepless adjustment of initial velocity, ensuring stable launch speed. It integrates a precise positioning module, combined with laser ranging, environmental wind speed and direction sensing, and ship motion attitude estimation. The main control unit calculates the trajectory in real time and automatically adjusts the launch angle, significantly improving hit accuracy.
[0026] 2. This solution solves the problems of poor safety and usage restrictions of traditional throwing devices. Gunpowder-assisted methods pose safety hazards such as explosions and fires. Their transportation, storage and use are strictly restricted by international maritime regulations and are prohibited in certain areas. This solution is entirely based on electric power, with no risk of explosion or combustion. It eliminates the safety hazards caused by gunpowder-assisted propulsion sources. It uses lithium batteries or supercapacitors for energy storage, with no chemical leakage or pollution, and complies with international maritime environmental protection and safety standards.
[0027] 3. This solution addresses the problem of weak environmental adaptability of traditional launchers. Traditional methods are significantly affected by environmental factors such as wind, waves, and ship swaying, especially in severe sea conditions where accuracy further declines and it is difficult to establish an effective connection. This solution has automatic wind deflection compensation and ship swaying period prediction functions, which can maintain high delivery accuracy in complex sea conditions. The key structure uses high-strength non-magnetic materials, which are corrosion-resistant and interference-resistant, and are suitable for high humidity and high salt spray marine environments.
[0028] 4. This solution addresses the issues of insufficient portability and rapid deployment capabilities of traditional launcher systems. Existing equipment is often large and heavy, making it difficult to quickly transport, install, and operate in emergency situations, thus delaying rescue efforts. This solution adopts a modular design, combining a portable tripod with an integrated main unit, resulting in a compact and lightweight structure that is easy for a single person to carry and quickly install. The automatic leveling, automatic aiming, and one-click preparation process greatly shortens deployment and launch preparation time.
[0029] 5. This solution solves the problems of complex operation and reliance on operator experience in traditional projectile launchers. Traditional aiming and launching processes rely heavily on the operator's experience and judgment, resulting in high training costs and slow emergency response. This solution provides a graphical human-machine interface that supports both coordinate input and visual aiming modes, reducing reliance on operator experience. The control unit automatically completes trajectory calculation, timing judgment, and launch control. The operator only needs to confirm the launch command, significantly reducing human error.
[0030] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution of the present invention. In order to better understand the technical means of the present invention and to implement it according to the contents of the specification, the preferred embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Specific embodiments of the present invention are given in detail in the following embodiments and their accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description
[0031] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and, together with their description, serve to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation thereof. In the drawings:
[0032] Figure 1 A flowchart illustrating a method for a portable electromagnetic catapult launcher for ships, as provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation
[0033] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 1 The principles and features of the present invention are described below. The examples given are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The invention is described more specifically in the following paragraphs by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. The advantages and features of the invention will become clearer from the following description. It should be noted that the drawings are in a very simplified form and use non-precise proportions, and are only used to facilitate and clarify the illustration of the embodiments of the invention.
[0034] It should be noted that when a component is described as "fixed to" another component, it can be directly on the other component or may have a component in between. When a component is considered "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or may have a component in between. When a component is considered "set on" another component, it can be directly set on the other component or may have a component in between. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this document are for illustrative purposes only.
[0035] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used herein in the description of the invention is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, this invention provides a portable electromagnetic catapult launcher for ships, comprising a catapult power module, a precision positioning module, a rope integration module, and a support and control module. The catapult power module includes an energy storage unit, a pulse power converter, a catapult guide rail, and an armature; the precision positioning module includes an integrated aiming unit, an environmental sensor, and a main control computing unit; the rope integration module includes a launch body, a traction rope, and a buffer anchoring device; and the support and control module includes a portable tripod, a human-machine interface, and a power management and control system.
[0037] Preferably, the energy storage unit uses a high-energy-density lithium battery pack or supercapacitor pack to store the electrical energy required for catapult launch. A pulse power converter is connected to the energy storage unit to convert the stored DC power into a high-power pulse current with a specific frequency and amplitude. The catapult guide rail is made of a non-magnetic, high-strength material (such as reinforced composite materials or aluminum alloy), with a linear motor stator winding embedded inside. The armature, as the mover of the linear motor, uses a solid or molten armature material and can be accelerated by electromagnetic force within the guide rail. Based entirely on electrical energy, this completely eliminates the risks of explosion and fire associated with traditional gunpowder-assisted propulsion, as well as the special requirements for transportation and storage. It meets the most stringent ship safety and environmental regulations. Precise modulation of the pulse current through electronic control allows for millisecond-level, stepless adjustment of the initial velocity of the catapult, which is impossible with mechanical or gunpowder-based catapults. This lays a solid foundation for precise positioning. The non-magnetic guide rail reduces energy loss, making the system more efficient. The modular design makes the power system compact and easy to maintain.
[0038] Preferably, the integrated aiming unit uses an integrated laser rangefinder and visible light indicator for initial aiming and ranging. Environmental sensors include a miniature weather station for real-time measurement of wind speed and direction. The main control computing unit (MCU) receives data from the aiming unit and environmental sensors, and incorporates a ballistic calculation algorithm to comprehensively calculate the initial launch velocity, launch angle, and optimal launch timing to compensate for the effects of ship sway and ambient wind. This transforms the traditional aiming process, which relies on operator experience and intuition, into an automated process driven by sensors and computer algorithms, greatly improving aiming accuracy and reliability, reducing human error, and actively sensing and compensating for wind drift, the most significant environmental factor affecting accuracy. This allows the system to maintain high delivery accuracy even in complex and harsh sea conditions. The calculation results from the MCU provide operators with a scientific basis for decision-making, reducing the high requirements for operators' professional skills, shortening training time, and improving emergency response speed.
[0039] Preferably, the launcher has a streamlined design with a hollow interior to accommodate the wound traction rope. Its tail is rigidly connected to the armature or integrated into the design. The traction rope is made of low-elongation, high-strength synthetic fiber rope, pre-wound and stored in the launcher. A buffer anchoring device is located at the system base or rope exit, providing a counterforce at the moment of launch and ensuring smooth rope exit. The streamlined design directly improves aerodynamic performance and increases the effective range. The high-strength, low-elongation rope ensures a strong and reliable initial connection, providing a solid foundation for subsequent rescue or transport operations.
[0040] Preferably, the portable tripod provides a stable launch platform and integrates elevation and azimuth adjustment mechanisms. These mechanisms are electrically connected to the main control computing unit and can automatically adjust the firing angle. The human-machine interface (HMI) is a waterproof touchscreen used to display aiming information, environmental parameters, and system status, and allows the operator to input target coordinates and confirm launch commands. The power management and control system comprehensively manages the power distribution and timing control of the entire system. The portable design meets the core requirement of "portability." The automatic aiming function eliminates the tedious steps of manual coarse aiming and fine adjustment, greatly shortening the launch preparation time, which is crucial in time-sensitive rescue scenarios. The highly integrated touchscreen interface makes the operation process clear and simple, and the information is presented at a glance, greatly reducing the difficulty of operation and mental burden.
[0041] The specific working principle and usage method of this invention are as follows:
[0042] S1, System Deployment and Initialization: The operator selects a stable and well-lit work location on the deck, unfolds and secures the portable tripod base, installs the system host (integrated catapult power module, precision positioning module, etc.) on the base, and ensures that it is firmly connected to the pitch and azimuth adjustment mechanism on the base. Connect the power interface of the high energy density energy storage unit (lithium battery pack or supercapacitor pack), start the system, and the main control computing unit (MCU) will execute a self-test program to check the status of the pulse power converter, whether the communication of the environmental sensor (mini weather station) and the integrated aiming unit (laser rangefinder and visible light indicator) is normal, and verify the charge status of the energy storage unit. The system human-machine interface (HMI) will display "Self-test passed" or specific fault information.
[0043] S2, Target aiming and parameter input: The operator selects the target mode through the human-machine interface;
[0044] In coordinate input mode, the operator directly inputs the latitude and longitude coordinates of the target point;
[0045] In visual aiming mode, the operator controls the pointing of the system through a joystick or touch screen, while observing the real-time image transmitted back by the visible light indicator on the HMI, aligning the laser spot with the target, triggering the laser rangefinder, and obtaining accurate target distance data (D).
[0046] Meanwhile, the system's environmental sensors (mini weather stations) continuously measure and upload real-time environmental parameters, mainly including horizontal wind speed (Vw) and the angle between the wind direction and the horizontal plane (θw). The main control computing unit (MCU) synchronously collects these data to prepare for the next step of calculation.
[0047] S3, ballistic calculation and automatic adjustment: The main control calculation unit calculates the optimal launch azimuth, pitch angle and required launch velocity in real time based on target distance, wind speed and wind direction data, combined with the built-in ballistic model and the current ship's rolling period (which can be obtained through the built-in IMU or manually input). Then, the control system automatically drives the pitch and azimuth adjustment mechanism to adjust the launch guide rail to the calculated theoretical optimal launch angle.
[0048] The core of this step is that the main control computing unit (MCU) executes the built-in ballistic calculation algorithm, which is a computer program that integrates classical parabolic motion equations, wind deflection compensation models, and ship motion prediction models.
[0049] Its basic principle can be summarized as follows:
[0050] Calculate the basic launch angle under windless conditions: Based on the target distance (D), the preset initial velocity of the projectile (V0), and the acceleration due to gravity (g), use the projectile motion equation D = (V0 / V0) / g. 2The theoretical launch elevation angle (α) can be obtained by solving *sin(2α) / g.
[0051] Calculate wind deflection compensation: The algorithm decomposes the wind speed (Vw) into tailwind / headwind components and crosswind components. The tailwind / headwind components indirectly affect the range by influencing the flight time (T) of the projectile, while the crosswind component directly causes horizontal deflection. The algorithm estimates the deflection distance (Δd) caused by the crosswind based on the flight time T, and calculates the azimuth compensation (Δβ) required to compensate for the deflection.
[0052] Calculate ship motion compensation: The system estimates the ship's attitude (roll, pitch angles and rate of change) at the moment of launch in real time through the built-in inertial measurement unit (IMU) or manually input ship sway period. The algorithm predicts the possible changes in the aiming point caused by ship motion during the missile's flight time and further fine-tunes and compensates for pitch and azimuth angles.
[0053] Taking all the above factors into account, the MCU finally calculates the optimal launch pitch angle (α_final), launch azimuth angle (β_final), and required launch initial velocity (V0_req). Subsequently, the MCU sends a command to the pulse power converter to set the pulse current energy parameters required to generate V0_req, and controls the pitch and azimuth adjustment mechanism to automatically adjust the launch rail to the calculated (α_final) and (β_final) angles.
[0054] S4, Energy loading and launch preparation: The operator manually loads the rope integration module—a streamlined projectile with the traction rope already neatly wound inside—along the catapult rail until it is securely connected to the armature. The end of the traction rope is fixed to the system base by a buffer anchoring device. After the system checks the projectile's positioning signal, the HMI interface displays "Loading complete, ready," and the operator makes a final confirmation.
[0055] S5, launch or eject at the opportune moment. The operator watches the HMI interface, which will provide the best "launch window" prompt based on IMU data (such as a dynamic countdown bar). This window is a brief moment when the ship's rolling motion is relatively stable, as predicted by the MCU. Within the window period or based on their own judgment, the operator presses the "launch" button at the moment when the ship is at a relatively stable peak or trough.
[0056] After receiving the launch command, the main control computing unit (MCU) immediately triggers the pulse power converter. The converter releases the high-voltage electrical energy stored in the energy storage unit into the stator winding of the linear motor of the catapult guide rail at a speed of milliseconds and in the form of precisely controlled pulse current. The traveling wave magnetic field generated in the winding interacts with the armature to generate a huge Lorentz force, which pushes the armature and the projectile fixed to it to accelerate linearly along the guide rail. Finally, it is launched at the end of the guide rail with a predetermined initial velocity (V0_req). The buffer anchoring device provides a reaction force at the moment of launch and ensures that the rope is pulled out smoothly and without tangling.
[0057] S6, Rope Throwing and Connection Establishment: The projectile flies towards the target location along a precisely calculated trajectory. During flight or after reaching the target, the projectile can release the traction rope via a mechanical structure (such as a grounding switch) or remote control command. After personnel in the target area pick up the rope, an initial connection can be established for subsequent rescue or transport operations.
[0058] S7, Recovery and Reloading: After the projectile reaches the target area, its internal mechanism (such as a trigger switch) or remote control command releases the traction rope for personnel in the target area to retrieve. Once the initial connection is established, the projectile mission is completed. After the mission is completed, the traction rope and projectile can be recovered (if it is a reusable design), the system can be powered off, and it can be disassembled from the base, packed and stored for future use.
[0059] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Content not described in detail in this specification is prior art known to those skilled in the art.
[0060] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Those skilled in the art can readily implement the present invention based on the accompanying drawings and the above description. However, any modifications, alterations, or variations made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention, utilizing the disclosed technical content, are equivalent embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, any modifications, alterations, or variations made to the above embodiments based on the essential technology of the present invention are still within the protection scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A portable electromagnetic catapult launcher for marine use, comprising a catapult power module, a precision positioning module, a rope integration module, and a support and control module, characterized in that, The catapult power module includes an energy storage unit, a pulse power converter, a catapult rail, and an armature; the precision positioning module includes an integrated aiming unit, an environmental sensor, and a main control computing unit; the rope integration module includes a throwing body, a traction rope, and a buffer anchoring device; and the support and display control module includes a portable tripod, a human-machine interface, and a power management and control system. The usage method includes the following steps: S1, System Deployment and Initialization: Set up a portable tripod base to ensure its stability, install the system host on the base and lock it in place, connect the power supply, start the system, and perform a self-test; S2, Target aiming and parameter input: The operator selects the target mode through the human-machine interface; S3, ballistic calculation and automatic adjustment: The main control calculation unit calculates the optimal launch azimuth angle, pitch angle and required launch velocity in real time. Then, the control system automatically drives the pitch and azimuth adjustment mechanism to adjust the launch guide rail to the calculated theoretical optimal launch angle. S4, Energy loading and launch preparation: The pulse power converter calculates and loads the required pulse current energy parameters based on the calculated initial velocity, and prepares to charge the energy storage unit. The operator loads the projectile with the traction rope into the catapult rail and connects it to the armature. The system displays "Ready". S5, launch and eject at the opportune time. The operator observes the system interface to confirm and issue the launch command. The high-power pulse current of the energy storage unit is instantly released to the winding of the ejection rail, generating a strong traveling wave magnetic field, which drives the armature and the projectile connected to it to accelerate along the rail until it is launched at the predetermined initial velocity. S6, rope throwing and connection establishment: the thrown object flies towards the target location along a precisely calculated trajectory. After the personnel in the target area pick up the rope, an initial connection can be established to carry out subsequent rescue or transportation operations. S7, Recovery and Reloading: After the mission is completed, the tow rope and reusable projectile can be recovered, and the system can be quickly reloaded in preparation for the next launch.
2. The marine portable electromagnetic catapult launcher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy storage unit uses a high-energy-density lithium battery pack or supercapacitor pack to store the electrical energy required for the launch. The pulse power converter is connected to the energy storage unit to convert the stored DC power into a high-power pulse current with a specific frequency and amplitude. The launch guide rail is made of a non-magnetic high-strength material and has a linear motor stator winding embedded inside. The armature, as the mover of the linear motor, uses a solid or molten armature material and can be accelerated by electromagnetic force within the guide rail.
3. The marine portable electromagnetic catapult launcher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The integrated aiming unit uses an integrated laser rangefinder and a visible light indicator for initial aiming and ranging. The environmental sensor includes a miniature weather station for real-time measurement of wind speed and direction. The main control computing unit receives data from the aiming unit and the environmental sensor, and has a built-in ballistic calculation algorithm to comprehensively calculate the initial velocity, launch angle, and optimal launch timing to compensate for the effects of ship rolling and environmental wind.
4. The marine portable electromagnetic catapult launcher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The launcher has a streamlined design and a hollow interior to accommodate the wound traction rope. Its tail is rigidly connected to the armature or integrated into the design. The traction rope is made of low-elongation, high-strength synthetic fiber rope, which is pre-wound and stored in the launcher in an orderly manner. The buffer anchoring device is set at the system base or rope outlet to provide a counterforce at the moment of launch and ensure smooth rope exit.
5. The marine portable electromagnetic catapult launcher according to claim 1, characterized in that, The portable tripod provides a stable launch platform and integrates pitch and azimuth adjustment mechanisms. These mechanisms are electrically connected to the main control computing unit and can automatically adjust the firing angle. The human-machine interface is a waterproof touch screen used to display aiming information, environmental parameters, and system status, and allows the operator to input target coordinates and confirm launch commands. The power management and control system manages the power distribution and timing control of the entire system.
6. The marine portable electromagnetic catapult launcher according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S2, the target mode includes a coordinate input mode and a visual aiming mode. In the coordinate input mode, the GPS coordinates of the target point are directly input. In the visual aiming mode, the visible light indicator of the integrated aiming unit emits a laser spot to indicate the target point, and the laser rangefinder simultaneously measures the target distance.
7. A portable electromagnetic catapult launcher for marine use according to claim 6, characterized in that, In step S2, the main control computing unit synchronously receives real-time wind speed and wind direction data from the environmental sensors.
8. The marine portable electromagnetic catapult launcher according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S3, the main control computing unit executes the built-in ballistic calculation algorithm, the basic principle of which is to calculate the basic firing angle under windless conditions, calculate the wind deflection compensation amount, and calculate the ship motion compensation.
9. A portable electromagnetic catapult launcher for marine use according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S5, after receiving the launch command, the main control computing unit immediately triggers the pulse power converter. The converter releases the high-voltage electrical energy stored in the energy storage unit into the stator winding of the linear motor of the catapult guide rail at a speed of milliseconds and in the form of precisely controlled pulse current. The traveling wave magnetic field generated in the winding interacts with the armature to generate a huge Lorentz force, which pushes the armature and the projectile fixed to it to accelerate linearly along the guide rail. Finally, it is launched at the end of the guide rail with a predetermined initial velocity. The buffer anchoring device provides a reaction force at the moment of launch and ensures that the rope is pulled out smoothly and without tangling.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
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