Dual-Direction Latch Snap-Hook for UUV Launching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for launching or recovering an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) are hazardous due to the need for manual attachment and detachment while leaning over a vessel, especially in rough seas, posing risks to both the user and the UUV.
Innovation Solution
A snap-hook device with a dual-direction latch mechanism, featuring internal springs and a spring guard, that securely attaches and releases objects by overcoming specific spring forces, allowing for safe and controlled engagement and disengagement without manual leaning over the vessel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual hooking or releasing of UUV is performed, then the UUV can be attached or detached from the vessel, but the user safety deteriorates due to the need to lean over the side of the vessel in rough seas
Solution Approach 1:
The snap-hook device is designed to automatically engage and disengage without requiring manual intervention. The dual-direction latch mechanism with asymmetric spring forces allows the hook to self-latch when closed and self-release when the release tab is actuated, eliminating the need for users to manually hook or release the UUV while leaning over the vessel side.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring guard component acts as an intermediary protective element that shields the internal springs from contact with external objects. This prevents accidental activation of the release mechanism and ensures that only intentional actuation of the release tab will disengage the latch, thereby maintaining operational safety.
2Device complexity
If a simple latch mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of secure attachment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a first spring for engagement, a second spring for disengagement, a spring guard for protection, and a release tab for actuation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function reliably while maintaining overall system manageability and controlled complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual-direction latch employs asymmetric spring forces where the first spring force for engagement differs from the second spring force for disengagement. This asymmetry ensures that the latch securely locks in the closed position requiring significant force to open accidentally, while allowing controlled release through the release tab mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If internal springs are exposed for latch operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the risk of accidental contact with objects deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The spring guard serves as an intermediary protective barrier between the internal springs and external objects. It allows the latch mechanism to operate smoothly by providing a controlled interface for actuation while preventing direct contact between springs and external objects that could cause accidental activation or damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring guard functions as a protective shell or enclosure that contains the internal springs while allowing necessary movement for latch operation. This flexible protective structure shields the springs from external contact without restricting the mechanical function of the latch mechanism.
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 safe and efficient attachment and detachment of UUVs, reducing the risk of accidents by allowing for remote operation and improved handling in challenging sea conditions, facilitating both launching and recovering UUVs with reduced manual effort and increased safety.
Implementation Method 1
The dual-direction latch is configured to move into the throat by overcoming a first spring force and further configured to move out of the throat by overcoming a second spring force
Implementation Method 2
The lever-return spring is disposed between the lever and the bridge so as to bias the lever and the bridge against each other. The latch spring is disposed between the bridge and the hook so as to bias the bridge against the latch stop
Data Source
AI summary
A snap-hook, including a hook and a dual-direction latch pivotally attached to the hook by a latch pin. The dual-direction latch blocks an opening to the hook's throat when held in a neutral position by a latch spring having a first spring force and a lever-return spring having a second spring force. The dual-direction latch is configured to move into the throat by overcoming the first spring force and to move out of the throat by overcoming the second spring force. The dual-direction latch comprises a spring guard attached to the dual-direction latch so as to shield the lever-return spring from coming into contact with one or both of an object disposed within a throat of the hook and an inner edge of the hook throat.