Rocket Hatch Radial Seal and Quick-Release Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rocket segment hatches are inefficient in utilizing available space due to the need for pressure chambers, which limits the installation of sensitive experiments and is time-consuming and error-prone to close, posing safety risks during flight.
Innovation Solution
A hatch with a radial seal and a quick-release closure mechanism that allows for pressure-tight sealing without screws, enabling efficient use of space and reducing the number of steps and potential errors in the closure process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pressure chamber is used to house pressure-sensitive experiments, then atmospheric pressure is maintained for sensitive specimens, but the available installation space is significantly reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the pressure-tight sealing function from a separate pressure chamber and integrates it directly into the hatch structure through a radial seal. This eliminates the need for a dedicated pressure chamber while maintaining atmospheric pressure for sensitive experiments, thereby freeing up installation space within the fuselage segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The hatch and pressure-tight sealing functions are merged into a single integrated structure. The radial seal is built into the hatch, combining the closure function with the pressure containment function, eliminating the need for a separate pressure chamber and optimizing space utilization.
2Reliability
If traditional screwed closure is used for the hatch, then secure attachment is achieved, but the closure process is time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical screwed closure system with a latch-based locking mechanism. This substitution maintains secure attachment of the hatch while dramatically reducing the time and complexity of the closure process, eliminating the need for multiple screws and tightening operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention discards the complex screwed closure system in favor of a simpler latch mechanism that can be quickly engaged and locked. The latch mechanism provides sufficient securing force while enabling rapid closure and opening operations, reducing both time and potential for human error.
3Strength
If multiple screws are used to attach the hatch, then secure fastening is achieved, but the number of steps and potential errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the fastening function from multiple individual screws and consolidates it into a single latch mechanism. This reduction in component count maintains adequate fastening strength while significantly simplifying the closure system and reducing the potential for assembly errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the primary fastening force, engages positive locking to secure the hatch, and indicates when the hatch is properly closed. This multi-functionality replaces what previously required multiple separate screw fasteners and locking mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
A hatch (10) for a rocket segment (500), comprising a base body (12), a baffle (14) connected to the base body (12) for closing a rocket segment opening (502), and a radial seal (30) for pressure-tight sealing between the base body (12) and the rocket segment opening (502). Furthermore, a frame (100), a rocket segment (500), and a method for using a rocket segment (500).