Fin Retention Mechanism with Integrated Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional projectile fin retention and release mechanisms rely on pyrotechnic or explosive methods and motors, which are complex and require separate actuators, whereas a more efficient and simplified mechanism is needed for effective fin deployment and control.
Innovation Solution
A fin retention and release mechanism featuring an elongated body with pivotally mounted fins, an actuator, and a fin retention member with a torsion spring, allowing fins to transition from a stowed to a deployed position through selective actuation without external motors or pyrotechnic means, utilizing passive mechanical retention and controlled surface actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pyrotechnic or explosive release mechanisms are used to retain and release fins, then reliable retention and release is achieved, but device complexity increases and separate actuators are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fin actuation function and fin retention/release function into a single integrated mechanism. The actuator that moves the fin from stowed to deployed position also automatically releases the retention member through mechanical coupling, eliminating the need for separate pyrotechnic or explosive release mechanisms while maintaining reliable retention and release
2Ease of operation
If separate actuators and release mechanisms are used for fin deployment, then controlled fin actuation is achieved, but device complexity and component quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is designed to perform multiple functions: it actuates the fin from stowed to deployed position and simultaneously releases the retention member. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate actuators and release mechanisms, reducing component quantity while maintaining controlled fin actuation
Solution Approach 2:
The retention member is mechanically coupled to the actuator such that the actuator's motion automatically triggers retention member release. This merging of functions allows a single actuator to control both fin deployment and retention release, simplifying the overall system
3Ease of repair
If manual reset capability is added to the fin retention mechanism, then ease of maintenance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention member includes a reset groove that receives a reset tool, enabling manual resetting of the mechanism. This self-service feature allows operators to reset the retention mechanism without requiring complex automated reset systems or specialized equipment, maintaining simplicity while improving ease of repair
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 reliable and efficient fin deployment and control with reduced complexity, eliminating the need for separate release mechanisms, while providing adequate retention margin against environmental loads and allowing for easy manual reset.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (23) arranged between the fin retention member and the body and configured to bias the fin retention member toward the locked position. The spring element may comprise a torsion spring orientated about the shaft portion.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved fin retention and release mechanism (15) comprising an elongated body (16), at least one fin (18a) mounted to the body and capable of moving from a stowed position (30) to a deployed position (32), an actuator (20a) connected to the fin and arranged to rotate the fin about a first axis (33), a fin retention member (19a) connected to the body and configured and arranged to rotate about a second axis (34) from a locked position (36) to a release position (38), the fin and the fin retention member configured and arranged such that the fin is held in the stowed position by the fin retention member when being in the locked position and the fin is not held in the stowed position by the fin retention member when being in the release position, and wherein actuation of the fin about the first axis by the actuator rotates the fin about the first axis in a first direction (39) and correspondingly rotates the fin retention member about the second axis in a second direction (40) opposite to the first direction and from the locked position to the release position.