Monolithic Valve Assembly for Torpedo Battery Activation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing activation and operation mode systems for electrochemical batteries in marine craft, such as torpedoes, are complex, delicate, and prone to failure due to their numerous components, which can compromise the operation of the battery and the craft.
Innovation Solution
A simplified, compact, and robust activation and operation mode system for electrochemical batteries in marine craft, comprising a monolithic assembly with a hydraulic circuit, valve units, flow rate regulators, and a phase separator, designed to manage seawater intake and gas discharge efficiently, while being resistant to external pressure changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex activation and operation mode system with multiple mechanical and electromechanical components is used, then the battery can be activated and operated, but the system becomes structurally delicate and prone to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (valves, pumps, connectors, control mechanisms) into a single integrated monolithic assembly. This assembly includes the hydraulic circuit, seawater intake valve, outlet valve, phase separator, and flow rate regulator all formed as one unified structure, eliminating the need for numerous separate mechanical parts that would require assembly and multiple connection points, thereby reducing failure points and structural delicacy
Solution Approach 2:
The monolithic assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a valve for controlling fluid flow, a pump for circulating electrolyte, a phase separator for dividing gas and liquid phases, and a flow rate regulator. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full operational capability
2Ease of operation
If multiple components are used to manage hydraulic circuits and fluid flow, then the battery operation can be controlled, but the system becomes mechanically complex and difficult to synchronize
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the hydraulic circuit management functions into a single monolithic assembly that integrates the seawater intake valve, outlet valve, phase separator, and flow rate regulator. This unified structure eliminates the need for multiple separate mechanical components that would require complex synchronization, making the system easier to operate while reducing mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The monolithic assembly is designed to automatically perform its functions without requiring complex external control mechanisms. The integrated structure allows the system to self-regulate fluid flow and phase separation through its inherent design, reducing the need for additional control components and synchronization 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 system provides a reliable and efficient operation of electrochemical batteries by reducing the complexity and increasing the robustness of the components, thereby minimizing the risk of failure and ensuring consistent propulsion performance.
Implementation Method 1
a pump for circulation of the fluid in the hydraulic circuit
Implementation Method 2
electrochemical cells, which are arranged inside a chamber made in the body of the torpedo and contain an anhydrous electrolyte
Implementation Method 3
a phase separator housed inside the chamber and designed to separate, in use, the gaseous component from the liquid component of the fluid leaving the chamber
Data Source
AI summary
An activation and operation mode system for an electrochemical battery for the propulsion of marine craft, in particular for torpedoes; the system being equipped with an inlet valve for the inflow of water from the outside environment, a flow rate regulator of the flow input through the inlet valve, an outlet valve for the outflow of the liquids and gases produced by the chemical reaction, and a mode valve movable from a discharge position, in which the fluid produced by the chemical reaction is conveyed to the outlet valve, and a recirculation position, in which said fluid is made to recirculate through the electrochemical cells of the battery; the inlet valve, the outlet valve, the flow rate regulator and the mode valve being grouped in a single external body so as to define a compact monolithic assembly.