Deployable Bridge Single Actuator Launch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing deployable bridge systems require complex and heavy mechanisms with multiple actuators, which complicate the launching process, affect vehicle stability, and limit the versatility of military vehicles due to high mass and center of gravity issues.
Innovation Solution
A mobile bridge system utilizing a single actuator mechanism, where a bridge is stored on a trailer or vehicle and deployed using a single linear actuator, such as a long powered leadscrew, allowing for efficient and stable launch and recovery with minimal vehicle modification, and enabling the system to negotiate narrow routes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple actuators are used to deploy the bridge, then the bridge can be deployed, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple actuator functions into a single actuator that performs both the tipping motion and the deployment motion. The single actuator is connected to the bridge assembly through a linkage mechanism that converts the linear actuator motion into the required rotational movements, eliminating the need for separate tipping and deployment actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuator serves multiple functions: it tips the bridge assembly from the stowed position to the deployment position, and then deploys the bridge spans. This multi-functional actuator design reduces the overall number of components and simplifies the control system while maintaining full deployment capability.
2Ease of operation
If the bridge is stowed above the vehicle, then the bridge is accessible, but the vehicle stability deteriorates due to increased center of gravity height
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the bridge stowage from a vertical arrangement (above the vehicle) to a horizontal arrangement (at the rear of the vehicle). The bridge assembly is mounted on a trailer chassis behind the vehicle, allowing it to be positioned low to the ground while remaining accessible through the rear-launch mechanism.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the bridge is stowed lower to the side of the vehicle, then vehicle stability is maintained, but the vehicle width increases making it unable to negotiate narrow routes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the bridge assembly in the longitudinal dimension (at the rear of the vehicle on a trailer) rather than in the lateral dimension (at the side of the vehicle). This rear-mounted configuration keeps the vehicle width narrow for negotiating tight routes while maintaining stability through proper weight distribution on the trailer axles.
4Force
If a long support foot is used to balance the bridge mass, then the see-saw moment is balanced, but the support foot length increases making the mechanism heavier and less compact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a linkage mechanism as an intermediary between the single actuator and the bridge assembly. This linkage system includes connecting rods and pivot points that transmit and amplify the actuator force, allowing the balanced see-saw moment to be achieved without requiring an excessively long support foot structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mechanical advantage parameters of the linkage system to optimize the force transmission. By adjusting the linkage geometry and pivot point positions, the system achieves adequate moment balance with a compact support foot length, resolving the contradiction between moment balance and structural compactness.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The single actuator mechanism simplifies the bridge launching process, reduces the weight and complexity of the system, maintains vehicle stability, and allows for the use of a lighter vehicle and trailer, ensuring effective bridge deployment and recovery while maintaining vehicle versatility.
Implementation Method 1
A single actuator mechanism, such as a long powered leadscrew, is used to deploy and recover the bridge. The leadscrew converts linear actuator motion into rotational movement of the bridge assembly, providing mechanical advantage to lift and position the heavy bridge structure with a single actuator.
Data Source
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AI summary
A deployable bridge carried on or by a vehicle, the bridge being movable from a stowed position to a deployed position, in which a bridge launch mechanism is provided and has only a single actuator.