Electromagnetic Umbilical Release for Stable Rocket Cable Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing umbilical cable retrieval systems for space launch vehicles are complex, expensive, and prone to damage the rocket due to unreliable retrieval when power is not supplied during launch, and they lack a stable method for both normal and abnormal retrieval operations.
Innovation Solution
An electrical umbilical system using an electromagnet that magnetically fixes and separates the umbilical unit from a connection module, incorporating a connection module, umbilical unit, weight body, drive line, and cable cutting mechanism to ensure stable retrieval operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mechanical umbilical systems are used, then structural strength and reliability are maintained, but system weight increases and moving parts require maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical umbilical systems with an electromagnetic system that uses magnetic fields to couple power and data between the launch vehicle and ground equipment. This substitution eliminates mechanical moving parts, reducing weight and maintenance requirements while maintaining reliable connectivity throughout the launch sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the mechanical transmission components from the umbilical system, retaining only the essential functional requirements for power and data transmission. By removing the mechanical coupling mechanism and replacing it with electromagnetic fields, the system achieves weight reduction while preserving reliability.
2Reliability
If mechanical umbilical systems with moving parts are used, then power and data transmission are reliable, but maintenance requirements increase and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes electromagnetic coupling for mechanical coupling, eliminating moving parts such as connectors, switches, and mechanical relays. This reduces device complexity by replacing complex mechanical assemblies with simpler electromagnetic fields that require no maintenance while maintaining reliable power and data transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential function of power and data transmission while removing the complex mechanical infrastructure. By using electromagnetic fields directly for coupling, the system eliminates intermediate mechanical components, reducing overall system complexity and maintenance burden.
3Weight of moving object
If electromagnetic coupling is used to reduce weight and maintenance, then system weight decreases and maintenance is eliminated, but electromagnetic interference may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potential harmful effect of electromagnetic fields into a beneficial coupling mechanism. By carefully designing the electromagnetic coupling system, the invention uses the same electromagnetic fields that could cause interference to instead enable reliable power and data transmission, while implementing shielding and filtering to mitigate any adverse effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces electromagnetic fields as an intermediary between the launch vehicle and ground equipment, replacing direct mechanical contact. This intermediary approach enables weight reduction and elimination of moving parts while managing electromagnetic interference through proper shielding, grounding, and signal filtering techniques.
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 system provides stable and reliable normal and abnormal retrieval operations, reduces complexity and cost, and prevents damage to the rocket by ensuring secure separation and retrieval of the umbilical cable.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnet disposed within the housing and configured to couple, via an electromagnetic field, the electrical power and data signals to or from the space launch vehicle
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrical umbilical system for a space launch vehicle, using an electromagnet comprises: a connection module which is provided to a launch vehicle unit flyable by means of thrust; and an umbilical unit which is provided to a tower unit supporting the launch vehicle unit so as to stand upright, and which may be electrically connected to the connection module. The umbilical unit comprises: a supply module which may be electrically connected to the connection module; a connection drive module which is coupled to the tower unit and connects the supply module to the connection module; a weight body which is coupled to the tower unit so as to be vertically movable; a drive line which connects the supply module and the weight body; and a guide roller which is rotatably coupled to the tower unit and supports the drive line.