Motor-Actuated Weapon Cradle Retaining Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual operation of tension belts in existing weapon storage devices for submarines is time-consuming and requires significant physical effort, especially during loading of torpedo tubes, and adapting to different weapon types is labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A motor-actuated tensioning element with a locking mechanism that allows for quick and effortless operation, enabling the device to be controlled remotely and simplifying the adaptation to various weapon sizes and types by using a motor to release and clamp retaining brackets on a weapon trough.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation of tensioning straps is used, then the device structure remains simple, but the operation time increases and physical effort is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation of tensioning straps with an automated mechanical system consisting of a spindle drive, release mechanism, and motor. This substitution eliminates the need for manual cranking while maintaining the mechanical function of securing and releasing weapons, thereby reducing operation effort without excessive complexity increase
Solution Approach 2:
The weapon cradle system incorporates an integrated automated release mechanism that can be triggered remotely or automatically. The spindle drive and release mechanism work together to self-actuate the tensioning straps without requiring direct manual intervention at the weapon cradle location, enabling effortless operation
2Productivity
If manual cranking is used to release tensioning straps, then the device structure remains simple, but the loading time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the slow manual cranking process with a motor-driven spindle mechanism that rapidly winds and unwinds the tensioning straps. This mechanical substitution dramatically increases the speed of weapon release and loading operations while confining the complexity to a compact drive unit
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning straps are pre-configured on the weapon cradle with the spindle drive mechanism already in place. The automated release system is pre-positioned and ready for immediate activation, eliminating the need for manual setup or adjustment during critical loading operations, thus increasing productivity
3Adaptability or versatility
If tensioning straps are coupled to a spindle drive for manual operation, then the straps can be released, but adjusting them for different weapon types requires considerable effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic adjustment system where the tensioning straps are coupled to a motorized spindle that can be remotely controlled or automatically actuated. This allows the strap tension and position to be dynamically adjusted for different weapon types without manual effort, as the motor can quickly reposition the straps to accommodate various weapon dimensions and configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The automated spindle drive and release mechanism serves multiple functions: it secures tensioning straps during storage, releases them during loading, and adjusts their position for different weapon types. This multi-functional system eliminates the need for separate adjustment mechanisms, providing versatility across different weapon types while maintaining ease of operation through automation
Data Source
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AI summary
A device for storing weapons in a submarine comprises a weapon cradle (2) for accommodating at least one weapon (4) and at least one retaining bracket (10) attached to the weapon cradle (2) and engaging over the weapon (4) in the storage position. The device also comprises at least one clamping element (8) for clamping the retaining bracket (10) onto the weapon (4). This clamping element (8) is designed to be motor-actuated.