Sonar Buoy Launch Container With Segmented Pneumatic Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sonar buoy launch containers with pneumatic systems are complex and expensive, making them difficult to inspect and potentially unreliable, especially when loading and sequentially launching Class G buoys, which have a shorter length than Class A buoys.
Innovation Solution
A container design featuring a spring closing device with watertight sealing and a diaphragm closing device for automatic airflow diversion, allowing simple, reliable, and cost-effective manufacturing, enabling sequential ejection of Class G buoys by partitioning the cylindrical casing into two portions with embedded pneumatic ducts and breakable pins for buoy retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rotary disc mechanism with multiple components is used for airflow diversion, then sequential ejection of multiple buoys is achieved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The single complex rotary disc mechanism is segmented into two independent valve devices: a first valve device with a movable plate and seal for controlling the first buoy, and a second valve device with a diaphragm and shutter for controlling the second buoy. Each valve device independently controls airflow to its respective buoy chamber, eliminating the complexity of a multi-component rotary mechanism while maintaining sequential ejection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes the complex rotary disc mechanism, plunger, rotary spring, and multiple lid components from the system. Instead, it implements simple valve devices with movable plates and seals that can be easily manufactured and inspected, directly resolving the technical contradiction by eliminating the problematic complex components while preserving the essential sequential control function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex rotary disc mechanism is used for airflow diversion, then sequential ejection of multiple buoys is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex rotary disc mechanism is segmented into two independent, simple valve devices that can be manufactured separately and assembled easily. Each valve device uses basic components like movable plates, seals, and springs that are inexpensive to produce, significantly reducing manufacturing costs compared to a complex rotary mechanism with multiple precision components.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve devices are designed to be simple and potentially disposable, using basic polymer or metal components that are inexpensive to manufacture. The movable plates and seals can be easily replaced or the entire valve device can be discarded after use, eliminating the need for expensive, complex rotary mechanisms that require precise manufacturing and maintenance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a complex rotary disc mechanism is used for airflow diversion, then sequential ejection of multiple buoys is achieved, but inspection difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex rotary disc mechanism is segmented into two independent, simple valve devices with straightforward internal structures. Each valve device has a movable plate or diaphragm with a seal that can be easily accessed and inspected through the container walls, eliminating the inspection difficulties associated with a complex rotary mechanism containing multiple hidden components like rotary springs and plunger assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes the complex rotary disc mechanism, plunger, rotary spring, and multiple lid components that are difficult to inspect. Instead, it implements simple valve devices with movable plates and seals that have minimal internal components, making them trivial to inspect visually or with basic tools, directly resolving the inspection difficulty issue.
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
The solution simplifies the operation and reduces costs by providing a reliable and cost-effective method for the sequential launching of Class G sonar buoys, enhancing the reliability and ease of inspection of the pneumatic system.
Implementation Method 1
a spring closing device provided with watertight sealing means so as to allow or cut off the communication between the pneumatic connection and the second portion of the casing
Implementation Method 2
a diaphragm closing device for cutting off or allowing the communication between the pneumatic system and the first portion of the casing
Implementation Method 3
the buoy is ejected under the command of the pilot and the on-board personnel by means of a pyrotechnic or pneumatic actuation
Data Source
AI summary
A container for housing and launching sonar buoys of class G (sonobuoy) including a casing partitioned into two portions and automatic and simplified valve means to sequentially eject the buoys from the container.