Explosive Gas Generator Torpedo Launch Tube
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torpedo launch devices face challenges with maintaining compressed air pressure and require routine maintenance, and are not suitable for launching torpedoes with back propellers due to direct contact with inflatable bags.
Innovation Solution
A launch device with a cylindrical launch tube and an expulsion assembly featuring an explosive-actuated bag and thrust disk system, which uses an explosive gas generator to inflate the bag, allowing for axial thrust without direct contact with the torpedo, and includes a lock mechanism and safety valves for controlled operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If compressed air is used to propel the torpedo, then the torpedo can be launched, but maintaining compressed air pressure and routine maintenance become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable explosive charges instead of reusable compressed air systems. Each launch consumes a new explosive charge that propels the torpedo, eliminating the need for maintaining compressed air reservoirs, pressure regulators, and pneumatic components. The explosive charge is a single-use element that is replaced after each launch.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical pneumatic system with a chemical propulsion system. Instead of using compressed air (mechanical energy storage), the system uses explosive charges (chemical energy conversion) to propel the torpedo. This substitution eliminates the mechanical components requiring maintenance while providing reliable propulsion.
2Force
If an inflatable bag is used to propel the torpedo, then thrust can be generated, but torpedoes with back propellers cannot be launched due to direct contact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the inflatable bag from the propulsion system entirely. Instead of using a bag that directly contacts the torpedo, the system uses explosive charges positioned at the rear of the launch tube that generate gas to propel the torpedo without physical contact. This extraction of the bag eliminates the direct contact problem while maintaining propulsion capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces hot gas as an intermediary between the explosive charge and the torpedo. The explosive generates high-pressure gas that acts as a mediator, transferring momentum to the torpedo without requiring direct solid contact. This gas intermediary allows torpedoes with delicate components like back propellers to be launched without damage.
3Device complexity
If explosive devices are used to generate gas for propulsion, then compressed air systems are eliminated, but the explosive system requires precise control and safety mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates preliminary safety measures in the design of the explosive charging system. The explosive charges are pre-positioned and pre-configured in the launch tube, with safety interlocks and controlled initiation sequences. This preliminary preparation ensures that the explosive system operates reliably and safely when activated, despite the inherent complexity of handling explosives.
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
Eliminates the need for compressed air, reduces maintenance requirements, and enables the launching of torpedoes with back propellers by utilizing an explosive gas generator for propulsion, ensuring reliable and efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
an explosive-actuated bag (7) interposed axially between base disk (5) and thrust disk (8). Bag (7) is fitted with and inflated by an explosive gas generator (10).
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A device for launching a torpedo (2), the device having a launch tube (3) for housing the torpedo (2); and a firing device (4) having an inflatable bag (7), and an explosive device (10) for producing a gas by which to inflate the bag (7) and generate thrust on, to launch, the torpedo (2).