Continuous Launcher with Segmented Piston and Diaphragm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing continuous launchers require frequent disassembly and re-loading, which is time-consuming, costly, and poses safety risks due to the need for high-pressure components and low-temperature environments, especially during ice erosion tests.
Innovation Solution
A detachable continuous launcher design featuring a movable piston and a high-pressure connector with a diaphragm that generates air compression force for launching objects, along with a piston supply and loading unit for continuous operation, allowing for the sequential replacement of launch components using a robot arm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a traditional launcher design is used with high-pressure units and diaphragms, then launching capability is achieved, but frequent disassembly and re-loading is required which reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The launcher is divided into separable modules: a reusable main body and detachable launch units. Each launch unit contains a piston, diaphragm, and launch tube assembly that can be quickly replaced without disassembling the entire system. This modular segmentation enables continuous operation by allowing rapid exchange of consumable components.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple launch units are prepared in advance and stored in a magazine or supply position. When one launch unit is depleted, a pre-prepared unit is already available for immediate installation, eliminating downtime between launching sequences. The piston and diaphragm components are pre-assembled in the launch units before detachment.
2Power
If high-pressure components are used for launching, then launching power is sufficient, but operator safety risks increase due to high-pressure and low-temperature environments
Solution Approach 1:
The hazardous high-pressure generation components (high-pressure gas cylinder, pressure regulation mechanisms) are separated from the launch units and retained in the main launcher body. The detachable launch units contain only the piston, diaphragm, and launch tube, which operate at lower pressures. This extraction of dangerous elements from the replaceable portions eliminates operator exposure risks during unit replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The diaphragm acts as an intermediary that isolates the high-pressure gas from the launch unit components. High-pressure gas remains confined to the main body and only transfers pressure through the diaphragm to the piston in the launch unit. This mediation allows high launching power while keeping the replaceable units and operator areas at safer pressure levels.
3Ease of manufacture
If manual re-loading of pistons and diaphragms is performed, then component replacement is possible, but operator fatigue and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The launch units are designed as self-contained assemblies where the piston, diaphragm, and launch tube form an integrated unit that can be installed as a single component. This self-service design eliminates the need for operators to manually assemble multiple small parts (piston, diaphragm, seals) under high-pressure conditions. The entire assembly is pre-configured and requires only simple attachment to the main body.
4Productivity
If the entire launcher is disassembled for re-loading, then complete component replacement is possible, but device complexity increases and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The launcher is segmented into a permanent main body and disposable/replaceable launch units. The main body contains the high-pressure system, control mechanisms, and structural framework that remain assembled. Only the launch units (containing piston, diaphragm, and launch tube) are segmented for detachment and replacement, significantly reducing the scope of disassembly required compared to complete system teardown.
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
Enables continuous and efficient launching of solid or liquid objects with improved accuracy and reduced costs by minimizing the need for high-pressure component replacement and reducing operator fatigue and safety risks.
Implementation Method 1
launching a launch object using air compression force, generated by the piston moving from the first hollow portion to the second hollow portion
Implementation Method 2
a diaphragm disposed to block between the second hollow portion and the launch hollow portion for generating the air compression force, and exploded when the air compression force reaches preset pressure
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a continuous launcher including a pressing tube having a first hollow portion therein, a launch unit having a second hollow portion therein, disposed at a front side of the pressing tube in a spaced manner, and launching a launch object using air compression force, a piston supply unit provided at a rear side surface of the pressing tube, including a plurality of pistons therein, and supplying the pistons one by one, a piston loading unit connected to a rear end of the pressing tube, and moving the piston to a load position, and an operating fluid supply unit supplying an operating fluid to press forward the piston, wherein the launch unit includes a launch tube having a launch hollow portion with the launch object therein, and a diaphragm.