Rocket Pipeline Separation Clamp for Instant Stage Disconnect
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current liquid-propellant rocket systems face challenges in reliably and quickly separating pressure pipelines of different diameters during stage separation, leading to potential launch failures due to incomplete or slow separation of propellant supply and blow-down pipelines.
Innovation Solution
A pipeline separation device comprising a first and second flange pipeline, a clamping unit, a push-and-pull unit, and an actuation unit, where the flange pipelines dock and the clamping unit limits the connection, and the actuation unit, including an actuation cylinder and piston, generates airflow to push the clamping unit away from the docking surface for rapid separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current electrical interfaces are used for separation, then instant plug performance can be achieved, but reliable separation of pressure pipelines has not been effectively solved
Solution Approach 1:
The pipeline separation device is divided into multiple functional segments: a clamping unit for securing the docking end surfaces, a push-and-pull unit for actuating separation, and an actuation unit for triggering the sequence. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to achieve reliable pipeline separation that electrical interfaces alone cannot provide.
2Speed
If traditional connection methods are used, then connection reliability is achieved, but separation speed is insufficient for instantaneous separation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static traditional connection to a dynamic system where the clamping unit can be actively released. The push-and-pull unit provides controlled motion to push the pipelines apart upon actuation, enabling instantaneous separation while maintaining reliable connection during operation through the clamping mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation unit utilizes pneumatic or hydraulic principles to generate the force needed for rapid separation. By introducing pressurized gas or liquid, the system achieves quick and reliable separation of the pipelines, overcoming the speed limitations of traditional mechanical release mechanisms while maintaining connection integrity during operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pressure pipelines of different diameters are connected, then functional requirements are met, but gas tightness and separation reliability become more difficult to ensure
Solution Approach 1:
The docking end surfaces are designed with localized adaptive features that accommodate different pipeline diameters. The clamping unit applies force at specific contact points optimized for each diameter configuration, ensuring gas tightness through localized sealing regions while maintaining the ability to connect pipelines of varying sizes.
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
Ensures reliable and quick separation of pipelines, enhancing the reliability of rocket launches by preventing medium leakage and facilitating instantaneous separation of rocket stages.
Implementation Method 1
the actuation cylinder being provided with a cavity for accessing or generating air flow on an opposite side of the piston; and when the cavity of the actuation cylinder, which is located on the opposite side of the piston, accesses or generates air flow, the piston and the actuation segment are pushed to move
Data Source
AI summary
A pipeline separation device for liquid-propellant rocket comprising a first flange pipeline, a second flange pipeline, a clamping unit, a push-and-pull unit and an actuation unit. The first flange pipeline and the second flange pipeline dock along a first direction, a docking end surface docking with each other is limited by the clamping unit, and end surfaces opposite to each other after docking of the first flange pipeline and the second flange pipeline are respectively used for connecting with different medium pipelines; the actuation unit is used for pushing the push-and-pull unit so that the clamping unit relieves limit on the docking end surface. Being provided with a clamping unit and an actuation unit, the pipeline separation device for liquid-propellant rocket is capable of quickly pushing the clamping unit out when the actuation unit works, thereby relieving the limit on the first flange pipeline and the second flange pipeline.