Electrofluidic Malfunction System for Maneuverable Measurement Body
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing maneuverable measuring bodies face challenges in reliably resetting rudders to a central zero position during malfunctions, particularly due to the complexity of electromechanical malfunction systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an electrofluidic malfunction system using pressure cylinders with a common pressure vessel and electromagnetic shut-off valve, which automatically extends pistons to reset rudders to their central zero position, combined with additional malfunction systems for enhanced reliability and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an electromechanical malfunction system is used to reset rudders to central zero position, then the rudders can be reset during malfunction, but the system design becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electromechanical malfunction system with a purely mechanical spring-loaded rotary lever system. The springs are pre-loaded to provide the necessary torque to rotate rudders to their central zero position, eliminating the need for electromagnetic actuators and complex control electronics while maintaining reliable automatic reset functionality during malfunctions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs compressed air stored in a pressure vessel as the energy source for the malfunction system. An electromagnetic switch controls the release of compressed air to rotate the rotary disk, which in turn actuates the spring-loaded levers to reset all rudders simultaneously. This pneumatic approach provides high force with simple mechanical components
2Reliability
If multiple malfunction systems are implemented for enhanced safety, then the safety reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the malfunction protection into two independent, functionally separated systems: a first malfunction system for resetting rudders to central zero position, and a second malfunction system for stabilizing the measuring body. This segmentation allows each system to be optimized for its specific function with simple, reliable components while providing comprehensive safety coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a staged malfunction response where the first malfunction system (rudder reset) acts as the primary cushioning measure to immediately stabilize control surfaces. The second malfunction system (measuring body stabilization) serves as a backup cushioning measure if the first system is insufficient, providing layered protection without requiring a single overly complex system
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
This solution allows for quick and reliable stabilization of the measuring body by resetting rudders and wings to neutral positions, minimizing disruptive maneuvering movements and ensuring safe recovery in case of malfunctions, with a simpler and more fault-resistant design compared to traditional electromechanical systems.
Implementation Method 1
a common pressure vessel (10) that is connected to the pressure cylinders (11) via fluid lines and has an electromagnetic shut-off valve (12) that opens automatically when the malfunction module (08) is activated, all pistons (13) being immediately ejected by pressurizing the piston heads (14) with the compressed air
Implementation Method 2
The first malfunction system (09) is designed to be electrofluidic and consists of a simple pressure cylinder (11) on each rudder
Implementation Method 3
a common pressure vessel (10) that is connected to the pressure cylinders (11) via fluid lines and has an electromagnetic shut-off valve (12) that opens automatically when the malfunction module (08) is activated
Implementation Method 4
each piston (13) having a piston head (14) and a piston rod (15) fastened thereto with a guide element (16) that can be retracted into a receiving element (18), each receiving element (18) being fixedly arranged on the respective rudder (04, 05, 06) around its axis of rotation (17) and having a contour that guides it into its central zero position (19)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A known malfunction module has an individual electromechanical malfunction system. In a measurement body (01) according to the invention, an electrofluidically operating first malfunction system (09) is provided, by means of which, in the event of a malfunction, all rudders (04, 05, 06) are moved suddenly into their zero position and are fixed there. To this end, all rudders (04, 05, 06) are connected to pressure cylinders (11), which are automatically fluidically pressurised by a central pressure vessel (10) in the event of a malfunction, in particular a power cut. A piston rod (15) is ejected suddenly and drives with a guide element (16) into a receiving element (18) on the rudders (04, 05, 06) and in so doing moves said rudders back into their zero position and locks them there. The airfoils (03) are optionally pivoted towards the measurement body (01) via a second malfunction system (24). Further optional malfunction systems (28, 29) provide a failsafe option and self-inflating air cushions (30). The measurement body (01) can fly independently or be towed; it can be used in the air or water. In particular, it is used to explore scientific measurement data in inaccessible areas.