Self-Locking Folding Fin Key-Slot Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding fin systems are complex and expensive to produce, not scalable, and not adaptable for use with multiple missiles, which limits their application and increases manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A self-locking folding fin system featuring a key-and-slot mechanism with an elastic element, where the upper fin part is rotatably mounted on the fin root, allowing for secure locking in the unfolded position using a compression spring and leg springs, enabling easy adaptation and scalability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If known folding fin systems are used, then the fin can be folded for launch, but the systems are extremely complex and expensive to produce
Solution Approach 1:
The folding fin system is divided into discrete modular components: fin root, upper fin part, axis, elastic rotary elements, and key-slot elements. Each component is independently manufacturable and can be assembled through standardized interfaces, reducing overall system complexity and manufacturing cost while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs self-locking key-slot elements that automatically engage when the fin reaches its deployed position, and self-releasing mechanisms that utilize aerodynamic forces and elastic element tension to unlock the fin for folding. This eliminates the need for complex control systems, motors, or sensors, significantly reducing manufacturing cost and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If known folding fin systems are used, then the fin can be folded for launch, but the systems are not scalable or adaptable for multiple missiles
Solution Approach 1:
The fin root, upper fin part, and mounting elements are designed as universal components that can be adapted to different missile diameters and configurations. The standardized key-slot interface and modular construction allow the same basic design to be scaled for various missile sizes without requiring complete redesign, enhancing versatility while maintaining simplicity.
3Reliability
If the upper fin part is rotatably mounted on the fin root, then the fin can move between folded and unfolded positions, but the fin may fold inadvertently without proper locking
Solution Approach 1:
The key-slot elements automatically lock when the fin reaches its deployed position through the natural rotation movement, and automatically release when aerodynamic forces and elastic element tension create the proper conditions. This self-activating locking and releasing mechanism ensures reliable operation without adding complex control systems, sensors, or actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic rotary elements are pre-tensioned to store potential energy that automatically engages the key-slot locking mechanism when the fin reaches the deployed position. This preliminary energy storage ensures positive locking occurs reliably at the correct moment without requiring additional control inputs.
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 is robust, reliable, cost-effective, and easily adaptable for various missiles, ensuring continuous fin effect without unintended folding, while being simpler to manufacture and assemble, and not engaging with the missile casing for easy assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a movement of the upper fin part relative to the fin root, in particular a rotation about the axis, which releases the lock. To this end, there is present at least one elastic element, in particular a compression spring, which is borne on the axis and which acts on at least one of the first axial mount element and the second axial mount element in such a way that the key is inserted into the slot
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of elastic rotary elements, in particular leg springs, whose spring force acts on the upper fin part in such a way as to urge the upper fin part into the unfolded position
Implementation Method 3
The key-and-slot system is released by a relative movement between upper fin part and fin root, in particular by a rotation about the axis, which releases the lock
Data Source
AI summary
A folding fin system includes a fin root and an upper fin part that is rotatably borne on the fin root. The upper fin part may be moved relative to the fin root between an unfolded and a folded position, and wherein the upper fin part and the fin root may be locked relative to one another using a slot-and-key system when the upper fin part is in the unfolded position.