Forward Folding Stabilizer Vanes for Payload Launch
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for cost-effective and versatile cartridge components and systems that can handle complex payloads such as powders, liquids, and gels without requiring expensive specialty tooling, and can be adapted for various applications, including shotshells and other complex payloads like chemical, pyrotechnic, and non-lethal projectiles.
Innovation Solution
The development of a payload delivery system featuring a cup-shaped stabilizer with forward folding vanes, which provides stability and drag during flight, can be used as a standalone component or attached to a payload cup, allowing for the efficient launch of diverse payloads by imparting a sabot effect and separating cleanly from the payload after launch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional cartridge components are used for complex payloads, then payload delivery function is achieved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizer is divided into multiple vanes that can be folded forward during launch and deployed backward during flight. This segmentation allows the single component to perform multiple functions: containing the payload during launch and providing aerodynamic stability during flight, thereby reducing the need for additional specialized components and tooling.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizer component is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as a payload container during launch, provides structural support, and transforms into an aerodynamic stabilizer during flight. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each function, reducing both manufacturing cost and device complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If specialty tooling is used for complex payload components, then manufacturing precision is improved, but capital cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizer's geometric parameters are designed to automatically transform from a compact launch configuration to an extended flight configuration. By changing the effective surface area and orientation of the vanes through folding mechanics rather than requiring precision-machined specialized components, the system achieves the necessary aerodynamic properties using standard manufacturing processes.
3Reliability
If forward folding vanes are used in stabilizer, then stability and drag are improved during flight, but device complexity increases in pre-launched configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizer transitions from a static, simple cylindrical structure during launch to a dynamic, extended vane structure during flight. The forward-folded vanes are held in a compact position during launch but are designed to deploy backward during flight, automatically providing aerodynamic stability and drag without requiring complex control mechanisms or additional components.
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 enables the efficient and cost-effective launch of complex payloads by providing stability and drag, reducing the need for complex and expensive tooling, and allowing for the use of relatively low-cost materials, while ensuring accurate and consistent delivery of projectiles.
Implementation Method 1
the cup-shaped stabilizer can be used for its stabilizing function... or simply 'stabilizer'... which assists in stabilizing the payload during flight... imparting high stability and drag
Implementation Method 2
the cup-shaped stabilizer... when it is attached to another component... assists in stabilizing the payload during flight to any extent desired
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure provides for payload delivery systems and cartridges and methods that incorporate the payload delivery systems. The payload delivery system can comprise a stabilizer having a longitudinally cut side wall defining a series of vanes that are folded forward in the pre-launched configuration. Cartridges that include the payload delivery system are disclosed, which can be used to deliver payloads such as solid projectiles, shot of all sizes, powders, gels, liquids, and other payloads to exploit their specific function.