Gimbal Coupling for Towed Antenna Alignment and Signal Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for towed antennas and watercraft, such as submarines, face challenges in achieving a secure and stable plug connection that can withstand vehicle movements without causing signal interference, particularly due to the need for precise axial alignment and the inability to quickly release the connector connection.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with a cardanic suspension arrangement that allows independent centering of the first plug element relative to the second, enabling compensation for angle and position errors, combined with a carriage arrangement that applies a prestressing force to maintain contact during vehicle movements, ensuring reliable electrical and optical signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If precise axial alignment of plug elements is required during coupling, then connection stability is improved, but coupling difficulty and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the alignment parameter from requiring precise axial alignment to allowing angular misalignment through the gimbal suspension arrangement. The first plug element can angularly move relative to the second plug element, transforming the coupling requirement from precise linear alignment to simpler positioning while maintaining connection stability through the gimbal's angle compensation capability.
2Reliability
If rigid connection between plug elements is used, then signal transmission stability is improved, but adaptability to vehicle movements decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adaptability through the gimbal suspension arrangement, which allows the first plug element to angularly move and compensate for vehicle movements. This dynamic mechanism maintains signal transmission stability by actively tracking and compensating for angular deviations caused by vehicle motion, rather than using a rigid fixed connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The gimbal suspension arrangement acts as an intermediary between the plug elements and the vehicle structure. It mediates the transmission of forces and movements, allowing the plug connection to remain stable while isolating it from the full impact of vehicle movements through angular compensation.
3Strength
If screw connections or bayonet locks are used for connector elements, then connection strength is improved, but ease of release decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection system into a permanent strong connection (gimbal suspension arrangement providing mechanical support and angle compensation) and a detachable plug connection (first and second plug elements). This segmentation allows the permanent structure to provide strength while the modular plug elements enable quick release without requiring complex screw or bayonet mechanisms.
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 solution provides a secure and trouble-free coupling process that maintains reliable signal transmission even under strong alternating loads, preventing sluggishness and ensuring the plug connection remains stable and secure during vehicle movements.
Implementation Method 1
the first connector element is advantageously decoupled from the rest of the actuating device by the gimbal suspension arrangement, at least with regard to some degrees of freedom. This allows the first connector element to center itself independently with respect to the second connector element during the coupling process
Implementation Method 2
spring means are held under pretension between the first carriage element and the second carriage element
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a coupling device for a releasable plug-in connection between a trailing aerial and a watercraft, with a first plug-in element and a second plug-in element for coupling trailing aerials and watercraft, and an actuating device in order to act upon the one plug-in element in the direction of the other plug-in element in each case.