Quick-Release Bow Clamp for Leak-Safe UUV Nose Cone Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Assembling Unmanned Undersea Vehicles (UUVs) in sub-sections poses challenges due to component size and weight, requiring secure and reliable connections at depth without risk of separation or leakage.
Innovation Solution
A bow clamp system that engages the nose cone assembly with a UUV module, utilizing a quick release clamp with a safety latch and intermittent flange pattern for secure attachment, constructed from lightweight corrosion-resistant materials like titanium, to ensure connection stability at depths up to 1000 feet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional tools and apparatus are used to assemble UUV sub-sections, then alignment and fit can be ensured, but the process becomes complicated due to component size and weight
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is divided into multiple functional segments: jaw members for gripping, a hinge mechanism for opening/closing, and a ratchet system for securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall assembly process
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp transitions from a static connection to a dynamic assembly process. The hinge mechanism enables the clamp to open and close around components, while the ratchet system provides progressive engagement, allowing assembly without complex alignment tools
2Reliability
If secure connections are made at depth, then separation risk is prevented, but the connection mechanism must withstand high pressure and force
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw members feature curved gripping surfaces that conform to the cylindrical shapes of UUV components. This curvature distributes contact forces evenly around the component, preventing stress concentration and enhancing the clamp's ability to withstand deep-sea pressure while maintaining secure connection
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet mechanism incorporates a safety latch that prevents accidental release before depth is reached. This pre-engineered safety feature ensures the connection remains secure under high pressure without requiring additional strengthening
3Weight of moving object
If lightweight materials are used for the clamp, then overall UUV weight is reduced, but corrosion resistance may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is constructed from titanium, a composite material that combines low density (lightweight) with exceptional corrosion resistance. This single material solution simultaneously addresses both requirements without needing additional protective coatings or sacrificial anodes
Data Source
AI summary
A quick release bow clamp comprising a hinged circular body having a vehicle mating flange and a nose cone mating flange configured to selectively attach to an access plate on the bow of an underwater vehicle and a nose cone for the same, respectively. The flanges of the bow clamp and the corresponding flanges of the access plate and nose cone may include an intermittent pattern of open and solid portions for weight reduction. The bow clamp may also include a quick release clamp having an adjustable draw latch configured to attach to a clip on the body of the bow clamp and a safety latch configured to prevent the draw latch from inadvertently disengaging with the clip.