Segmented Hydrodynamic Mast Columns for Radar Discretion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current underwater vehicle masts with cylindrical structures cause significant radar equivalent signature, water spray, and wake signatures, compromising mission discretion due to their design.
Innovation Solution
The use of hydrodynamically tapered mast columns spaced apart and connected by a transverse bar, with radar-transparent materials and cone-shaped aerial means to minimize hydrodynamic interference and radar signatures, along with rotating parts for 360° visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If cylindrical masts with large section are used, then structural strength is improved, but radar signature and wake signature increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mast is divided into multiple thin columns (typically three) spaced apart from each other, rather than using a single solid cylindrical structure. This segmentation reduces the radar cross-section and minimizes wake signature while maintaining structural integrity through the spaced arrangement and inter-column bracing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a two-dimensional solid cylinder to a three-dimensional spaced columnar structure. By distributing the mast function across multiple columns in space rather than concentrating it in a single solid form, the design achieves reduced hydrodynamic and radar signatures while preserving structural strength.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mast crosses the diopter when hoisted, then periscopic immersion capability is improved, but water spray and wake are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The mast structure is segmented into multiple thin columns that can be hoisted independently or together. This segmentation allows the mast to cross the diopter (water surface) with minimal displacement, reducing water spray and wake generation while maintaining the ability to achieve periscopic immersion depth.
Solution Approach 2:
The mast columns are positioned and dimensioned to have different local characteristics - thin sections where they cross the diopter to minimize spray, and adequate spacing to allow water flow through the structure. This local optimization reduces harmful hydrodynamic effects while maintaining overall functionality.
3Measurement precision
If aerial means are mounted on mast, then sensor capability is improved, but indiscretion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The aerial means (sensors, antennas, etc.) are distributed among multiple spaced columns rather than concentrated on a single solid mast. This segmentation reduces the radar cross-section and visual signature while maintaining sensor capability, as the sensors can be positioned on different columns or on a platform connecting them.
Solution Approach 2:
The mast structure uses thin-walled columns that minimize radar reflection and visual detection. These thin structures support aerial means while presenting a minimal profile to radar and optical detection systems, thereby maintaining sensor capability without increasing indiscretion.
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 design enhances mast discretion by reducing water spray and wake, while maintaining radar transparency and improving hydrodynamic performance, especially during periscopic immersion.
Implementation Method 1
hydrodynamically profiled mast columns which can be hoisted independently of one another
Implementation Method 2
made of a material transparent to radar waves to improve the discretion of the mast
Data Source
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AI summary
This underwater vessel of the type comprising at least one hoistable mast (10), in the vicinity of the upper end of which there are arranged means forming antennas (11) equipped with sensors connected to the rest of the underwater vessel, is characterized in that the hoistable mast (10) comprises, at least at its portion intended to pass through the dioptre when the mast is hoisted, at least two profiled mast columns in the form of a slender hydrodynamic profile (12, 13) that are spaced apart from one another.