Rocket Nozzle Closure Locking Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nozzle opening mechanisms in rocket engines face issues with uncontrolled ejection of parts, which can cause damage, and reliance on overpressure for operation, which may be undesirable or impermissible in certain applications.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical actuating device for a nozzle closure body with a locking mechanism that can be moved between locked and released positions, allowing for secure closure and controlled opening of the nozzle without the need for explosives or complex electronics, featuring a locking device with elastic elements and a rocker arm for emergency operation, and a locking pin with a return spring for added safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a nozzle closure body is opened by overpressure or ignition capsule, then the nozzle can be opened automatically, but parts are ejected in an uncontrolled manner causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
A mechanical actuating device with a locking device serves as an intermediary between the closure body and the opening force. The locking device includes a locking element that engages with a guide element, and an actuator that controllably moves the locking element between locked and unlocked positions. This intermediary mechanism transforms uncontrolled overpressure-driven ejection into a controlled opening process, preventing harmful part ejection while maintaining reliable nozzle opening functionality.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a catching device is used to prevent part ejection, then parts are contained, but the device requires overpressure triggering which is undesirable in certain applications
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device employs dynamic elements including a movable locking element that can transition between locked and unlocked states, and an actuator that provides active control. This dynamic design replaces static overpressure-triggered catching devices with a mechanically controllable system that can be actuated by various means (manual, automated, or alternative actuation mechanisms), thereby containing parts while adapting to diverse application requirements beyond just overpressure scenarios.
3Reliability
If explosives or complex electronics are used for nozzle opening, then reliable actuation is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is designed with self-locking capability where the locking element automatically engages with the guide element when in the locked position, maintaining nozzle closure without continuous actuation force. The actuator simply needs to provide a small force to move the locking element between states, and the mechanical geometry of the locking device itself provides the primary locking function. This self-service mechanism achieves reliable actuation with minimal complex components, avoiding explosives and complex electronics while maintaining actuation reliability through simple mechanical means.
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 safe and controlled opening and closing of nozzles, preventing uncontrolled part ejection and allowing operation independent of overpressure, with a robust and flexible actuation system that can handle high thermal and mechanical loads.
Implementation Method 1
The locking device has a first elastic element, in particular a torsion spring, which exerts such a great force on the locking device that it is brought into an open position
Implementation Method 2
a second elastic element, in particular a leaf spring, which exerts a force on the rocker arm in order to bring the rocker arm into a position in which, in the closed position of the locking device, it closes the annular flange
Implementation Method 3
The locking pin can be held in a rest position by a return spring arranged in the nozzle closure body
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The device has rocker arm carriers (16), torsion springs (18), a rocker arm (20) and a plate spring (22) embracing an annular flange (24) of an aperture of a nozzle (10) in a closure position such that a nozzle closure body (12) closes the nozzle. A lockbolt (26) and a stop unit (28) are moved between a blockage position and a releasing position. The lockbolt and the stop unit block and release the carriers, the springs and the arm in the closure- and releasing positions, so that the nozzle closure body is removed from the nozzle. A rope or cable (30) moves the lockbolt and the stop unit.