Projectile Launch Detector Sliding Mast Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underwater projectile launch detection systems disrupt the operation of torpedoes and fail to safely determine the speed of projectiles for recovery, as they require propulsion system initiation and do not provide real-time speed assessment for operator safety.
Innovation Solution
A projectile launch detector with a sliding and pivoting mast mechanism, equipped with elastic return elements and sensors, which detects configuration changes to initiate propulsion and assess speed, ensuring safe operation and recovery without disrupting the projectile's normal operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a projectile launch detector is installed on the torpedo, then launch detection capability is improved, but the torpedo's normal operation is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The detector employs a movable mast that can dynamically change its position between retracted and extended configurations. This dynamic structure allows the detector to adapt to different operational states of the torpedo, remaining retracted during normal operation to avoid disruption and extending during launch to perform detection, thereby resolving the contradiction between detection capability and operational ease
Solution Approach 2:
The detector is divided into separate functional components: a body, a movable mast, and a blade. This segmentation allows the mast to independently move and pivot without affecting the entire torpedo structure, enabling launch detection while maintaining normal torpedo operation during non-detection phases
2Measurement precision
If the mast is extended to detect launch, then detection accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detector utilizes the torpedo's own motion and water flow during launch to automatically extend the mast and activate detection. The kinetic energy from the launching process itself serves to deploy the detector, eliminating the need for separate complex actuation mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining detection accuracy
3Reliability
If the detector components are added to the projectile, then detection functionality is improved, but the projectile weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detector is designed as a separable component that can be removed or deactivated after the launch detection function is fulfilled. This extraction approach allows the detector to be present during launch for accurate detection while minimizing its impact on the projectile's weight during the majority of its operational lifecycle
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
Enables reliable detection of projectile launch and speed assessment, allowing safe operation and recovery by minimizing disruption to the torpedo's propulsion system and ensuring operator safety through accurate speed determination.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastic return element, to return the mast to the deployed configuration relative to the body; the first elastic return element is a compression spring
Implementation Method 2
a second elastic return element, to return the mast to the first angular position relative to the body; the second elastic return element is a torsion spring
Data Source
AI summary
A projectile launch detector, including a body, a mast and a blade rigidly connected to the mast; the mast being capable of sliding between a retracted configuration and a deployed configuration, and capable of pivoting between a first and a second angular position. The detector may further includes a first elastic return element to return the mast to the deployed configuration relative to the body; and a first associated sensor; and a second elastic return element to return the mast to the first angular position relative to the body; and a second associated sensor.