Rocket Delay Tool for Adjustable Timing and Reusability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rocket systems, particularly those used by hobbyists, face challenges with complex mechanisms and limited manipulability of propellant grains and delay elements, requiring specialized tools and procedures, and often necessitate pre-certified modifications which restrict user flexibility and reusability.
Innovation Solution
The development of delay modifiable rocket systems and tools that allow users to alter the timing of the delay from either the ejection or propellant side, using a universal tool for both single-use and reloadable systems, enabling modification of the ejection charge size and access to the delay mechanism without requiring pre-certified components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pre-certified components and procedures are used, then safety and reliability are ensured, but user flexibility and ease of operation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables users to perform their own delay modifications without requiring external certification or specialized tools. The delay element can be adjusted by the user directly through the motor casing opening, allowing self-service modification while maintaining safety through controlled access to the delay mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor casing opening acts as an intermediary access point that allows users to modify delay elements without directly exposing them to hazardous components. This controlled access mechanism enables safe user interaction with pyrotechnic elements without requiring pre-certified procedures.
2Reliability
If specialized tools and procedures are required, then manufacturing precision and reliability are maintained, but device complexity and ease of manufacture increase
Solution Approach 1:
The delay modification capability is extracted from the motor assembly process and made accessible through the motor casing opening. Users can access and modify delay elements without requiring specialized tools, as the opening provides direct access to the delay mechanism already integrated into the motor structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor casing opening serves multiple functions: it allows access for delay modification, maintains structural integrity of the motor, and enables reuse of the motor with different delay elements. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized tools while maintaining manufacturing precision.
3Reliability
If delay elements are fixed and non-modifiable, then system reliability is ensured, but adaptability and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The delay element is designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. Users can modify the delay timing by accessing the delay element through the motor casing opening and adjusting its configuration or length, allowing the system to adapt to different flight requirements while maintaining reliability through controlled access.
Solution Approach 2:
The delay element can be segmented or divided into adjustable portions. Users can modify the effective length or configuration of the delay element through the motor casing opening, enabling flexible delay timing adjustment while maintaining system stability through controlled access to the segmented components.
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
This solution simplifies the manipulation of delay elements, allowing users to customize delay times and ejection charge sizes, enhancing the usability and reusability of rocket motors while adhering to consumer rocketry regulations, and providing a versatile tool for both single-use and reloadable systems.
Implementation Method 1
a delay element (26) having a propellant end and an ejection end, the delay element adapted to be burned from the propellant end toward the ejection end
Implementation Method 2
an ejection charge (28) disposed in the ejection well (21b) of the bulkhead (21), the ejection charge adapted to be burned from the ejection end toward the delay element (26)
Data Source
AI summary
Delay tools, systems and methods for achieving a selection of alternative delay times, a tool of which including a body, a drill bit operable relative to the body and a knob operably connected to the drill bit, and operably disposed relative to the body for engagement of the body with a rocket motor bulkhead and the drill both relative to a delay to provide for achieving a selection of alternative delay times.