Umbilical Retrieval with Electromagnetic Release for Launch Vehicles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing umbilical cable retrieval systems for space launch vehicles are complex, expensive, and prone to failure when power is not supplied during launch, risking damage to the rocket due to unretrieved cables, and require motor or hydraulic mechanisms that complicate the structure.

Innovation Solution

An electrical umbilical system using an electromagnet to fix and separate the umbilical unit from a connection module on a launch vehicle, employing an electromagnetic method for stable retrieval operations through magnetized coupling and cutting mechanisms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a cable retrieval apparatus powered by motor or hydraulic device is used, then the umbilical cable can be retrieved from the rocket, but the structure becomes complex and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecable retrieval reliabilityVSAvoidcable retrieval apparatus structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the motor or hydraulic-powered cable retrieval apparatus with a gravity-based retrieval system. The umbilical cable is equipped with a weight that automatically pulls the cable away from the rocket after launch through gravitational force, eliminating the need for complex powered retrieval mechanisms while maintaining reliable cable separation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If electric force is used to operate the cable retrieval apparatus, then the umbilical cable can be separated and retrieved, but the system requires proper power supply which may not be available during launch

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecable separation reliabilityVSAvoidpower supply dependency

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service cable retrieval system that does not depend on external power supply. The gravity-based mechanism using a weight attached to the umbilical cable automatically separates and retrieves the cable after launch without requiring any power input, ensuring reliable operation even when power is not supplied during launch.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If a complex electrical cable retrieval apparatus is used, then the cable can be retrieved, but the cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecable retrieval functionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a simple, low-cost gravity-based cable retrieval mechanism instead of expensive motorized or hydraulic systems. The weight-based system uses basic mechanical components that are inexpensive to manufacture, significantly reducing the cost while maintaining the essential cable separation function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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

Ensures stable and safe retrieval of umbilical units by minimizing structural complexity, reducing weight, and preventing cable collisions, while maintaining electrical connections and tension, even in abnormal conditions.

Implementation Method 1

an electrical umbilical system using an electromagnet for a space launch vehicle... applying an electromagnetic method to fix an umbilical unit to a connection module... whether the connection module and the supply module are coupled to each other is determined depending on whether at least any one of the connection module and the supply module is magnetized by electricity

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetism: Electromagnet

Implementation Method 2

separate the umbilical unit from the connection module in response to a launch operation of the launch vehicle unit... whether the connection module and the supply module are coupled to each other is determined depending on whether at least any one of the connection module and the supply module is magnetized by electricity

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field control: Electromagnet

Data Source

PatentUS12358653B2Electrical umbilical system for space launch vehicle, using electromagnet

Publication Date: 2025.07.15 INNOSPACE CO LTD

AI summary

An electrical umbilical system for a space launch vehicle, using an electromagnet includes a connection module which is provided to a launch vehicle unit flyable by means of thrust; and an umbilical unit which is provided to a tower unit supporting the launch vehicle unit so as to stand upright, and which is capable of being electrically connected to the connection module. The umbilical unit includes a supply module which is capable of electrically connected to the connection module; a connection drive module which is coupled to the tower unit and connects the supply module to the connection module; a weight body which is coupled to the tower unit so as to be vertically movable; a drive line which connects the supply module and the weight body; and a guide roller which is rotatably coupled to the tower unit and supports the drive line.