Automated Launch Mating System With Electrical Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing launch device mating systems are non-automated, requiring human operators, which reduces deployment speed and increases safety risks, and in-ground or silo launches can lead to political issues and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
An automated system that uses electrical connectors and a motorized umbilical assembly to automatically mate a launch device to a launch platform, eliminating the need for human operators and enabling above-ground launches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If non-automated mating systems with human operators are used, then operational flexibility and manual control are maintained, but deployment speed is reduced and safety issues increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mating system performs automatic alignment and connection of electrical connectors without human operators. The launch device autonomously mates with the launch platform through self-aligning mechanical features and automated electrical connector engagement, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining operational flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated systems. Electrical connectors are automatically engaged through motorized or spring-loaded mechanisms that substitute human hands and tools, thereby increasing deployment speed while maintaining the ability to perform complex mating operations
2Object-affected harmful factors
If in-ground or silo launches are used, then structural support and protection are provided, but political issues arise and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the launch device from traditional in-ground silo configurations and positions it on above-ground launch platforms. This extraction eliminates the political associations with silo-based systems while maintaining all necessary structural support and protection functions through surface-mounted platform designs
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from vertical underground launch configurations to horizontal or elevated surface-based launch platforms. This dimensional change allows the system to maintain structural integrity and protection while avoiding the political connotations associated with in-ground silos
3Quantity of substance
If missiles are stacked in stages on the launch platform, then launch capacity is increased, but cost and time requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The launch platform is designed with universal mating interfaces that can accommodate multiple launch device configurations. The automated electrical connector system and mechanical alignment features work consistently whether one or multiple devices are launched, eliminating the need for complex stacking mechanisms while maintaining launch capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the launch capability into independent, modular launch positions on the platform. Each position has its own automated mating system, allowing simultaneous or sequential launches without requiring complex inter-connected stacking mechanisms. This segmentation simplifies the overall system while maintaining high launch capacity
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, an automated system for mating a launch device to a launch platform may include a launch platform having a first electrical connector, and a interface member attached to the launch device. The interface member may include a second electrical connector configured to automatically couple to the first electrical connector of the launch platform.