Parachute Rocket Plug Connector Automation

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Solution Overview

Problem

The manual assembly of parachute rockets is hazardous and complex, lacking automation in connecting the parachute with the pyrotechnic effect set, which is typically done using hooks or self-destructing bolt connections.

Innovation Solution

A plug connection system with spring tongues is introduced, allowing for easy and secure mechanical connection between the parachute and the pyrotechnic effect set, featuring a disc with multiple spring tongues for reliable clamping and a cotter pin or bolt for automatic assembly, enabling the use of heat-resistant materials for the parachute and lines.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If manual assembly with hooks or self-destructing bolt connections is used, then connection reliability is achieved, but assembly complexity and hazard increase while automation is prevented

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly automationVSAvoidconnection mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection mechanism is segmented into two separate parts: a connector attached to the parachute and a counterpart attached to the effect set. This segmentation allows each part to be manufactured and prepared independently, enabling automated assembly processes while maintaining connection reliability through the designed interface between segments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The plug connection is designed to be self-latching or self-locking through spring elements that automatically engage when the connector and counterpart are joined. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual intervention or complex external locking systems, achieving both automation and simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If manual connection with hooks is used, then assembly simplicity is maintained, but safety hazards increase and long-term connection reliability is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidassembly safety hazards

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Spring elements act as intermediaries between the connector and counterpart, providing a controlled mechanical engagement that ensures reliable connection. These spring elements absorb misalignment tolerances and provide progressive engagement, eliminating the safety hazards associated with manual hook connection while ensuring long-term connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Strength

If self-destructing bolt connections are used, then connection strength is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidconnection mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The plug connection uses simple, inexpensive components such as spring elements and basic mechanical interfaces instead of complex self-destructing bolt mechanisms. The design accepts that the connection is intended for single-use applications, allowing simpler components to achieve sufficient strength without the complexity of controlled destruction mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

4Reliability

If multiple spring elements are used in the plug connection, then connection reliability is ensured, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple spring elements are merged into a single integrated component rather than being separate parts. This unified spring component can be manufactured as one piece using standard forming processes, maintaining connection reliability through multiple contact points while simplifying manufacturing and assembly operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 plug connection system automates the assembly process, ensuring a secure, long-term connection without manual intervention, using heat-resistant materials to withstand pyrotechnic effects, thus enhancing safety and reducing assembly complexity.

Implementation Method 1

with only elastic deformation of the spring tongues. The yielding of the spring tongues in the elastic area when they are plugged together and the spring tongues, which are now under tension, springing back independently due to the hooking exerts a retaining force on the cotter pin or bolt

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP1975544B1Parachute rocket, in particular parachute signal rocket and/or parachute illumination rocket and method for manufacturing the same

Publication Date: 2011.11.09 CHEMRING DEFENCE GERMANY

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Figure 4~5

AI summary

The parachute rocket has a pyrotechnic effect set (14), particularly a signal or an illuminant set. A plug connector (16) is provided for the connection of a parachute (18) with the pyrotechnic effect set. One part of the plug connector is arranged at the parachute and at the effect set in each case. An independent claim is also included for a method for manufacturing a parachute rocket, particularly a parachute signal flare.