Retractable Hull Mounting Platform for Impact-Protected Data Collection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underwater data collection systems on watercraft are prone to disruption or damage due to impact with submerged objects or external forces, lacking a robust mounting system that can accommodate such impacts.
Innovation Solution
A moveable mounting platform coupled to spring supports allows data detection and collection devices to be suspended within a protective cavity in the hull, enabling passive movement in response to external impacts, with a retractable design that deploys and protects the devices from damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If data collection devices are rigidly mounted to the hull, then structural stability is improved, but vulnerability to impact damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from a rigid static structure to a dynamic system with spring supports that allow controlled movement. The platform can move vertically and laterally on spring supports, enabling it to absorb impact forces dynamically while maintaining operational stability during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates spring supports that act as cushioning elements before impact occurs. These springs are pre-loaded and designed to compress upon impact, absorbing shock energy before it reaches the data collection devices, thereby protecting them from damage.
2Reliability
If data collection devices are mounted on the hull bottom, then data collection capability is improved, but exposure to external forces increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the data collection devices from the hull structure through an intermediate movable platform. This segmentation allows the devices to be positioned optimally for data collection while being isolated from direct exposure to external forces by the platform and spring support system.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable platform acts as an intermediary between the hull and the data collection devices. It provides a protected interface that allows the devices to function effectively while shielding them from direct impact with submerged objects and external forces.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a protective cavity is created in the hull, then device protection is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective cavity serves multiple functions: it protects devices from impact, provides a mounting structure for the platform, and acts as a shock-absorbing chamber. By combining these functions into a single structural element, the design avoids adding excessive complexity while achieving comprehensive protection.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If spring supports are used for the mounting platform, then impact resistance is improved, but mounting stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring supports are designed with specific stiffness parameters that allow them to be compliant under impact loads while maintaining adequate stiffness for stable mounting during normal operation. By carefully selecting spring constants and pre-load forces, the system achieves both impact resistance and mounting stability.
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 effectively protects data collection devices by allowing them to move freely in response to external forces, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring continuous operation.
Implementation Method 1
spring supports which allows said moveable mounting platform when deployed to move on said spring supports in any direction with respect to the hull in response to external impact or force
Implementation Method 2
spring supports which allows said moveable mounting platform when deployed to move on said spring supports
Data Source
AI summary
A watercraft mounting system that embodies a moving mounting platform and a protective hull cavity which provides protection, prevents damage and improves storage of data collection systems.