Sonobuoy Carousel Retention Layout for High-Capacity Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sonobuoy containment and release devices are limited in capacity, prone to misalignments due to vibrations, and inefficient in releasing sonobuoys, especially when dealing with a large number of sonobuoys of varying sizes.
Innovation Solution
A carousel system with a lower and upper portion, each having multiple seats, equipped with switchable retaining elements and support systems that stabilize sonobuoys laterally and guide them for efficient release, allowing for a large number of sonobuoys of different sizes to be contained and released without increasing device size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single rotating drum with limited seats is used, then the device dimensions remain compact, but the sonobuoy containment capacity is extremely limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-level drum to a multi-level carousel structure with upper and lower decks, effectively utilizing vertical space to increase sonobuoy capacity without proportionally increasing the device's horizontal footprint or overall volume
Solution Approach 2:
The carousel is divided into multiple independent seats arranged in different levels (upper and lower decks), each capable of holding individual sonobuoys. This segmentation allows parallel containment of multiple sonobuoys in a compact configuration
2Reliability
If retaining members are made fixed to prevent misalignment, then sonobuoy stability improves, but the device cannot adapt to sonobuoys of different lengths
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining members are designed as movable elements that can dynamically adjust their position along the longitudinal axis of each seat. This dynamic capability allows the same retaining member to accommodate sonobuoys of varying lengths while maintaining stable retention through actuation mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining members serve multiple functions: they can be positioned to retain sonobuoys of different lengths, actuated to release sonobuoys on demand, and configured to prevent both longitudinal and lateral misalignments, making them a multi-functional component
3Productivity
If the carousel rotates in a single fixed direction, then the rotation mechanism is simple, but the release time for sonobuoys is considerably increased due to misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The carousel rotation system is made dynamic by enabling bidirectional rotation (clockwise and anticlockwise). The control system can select the optimal rotation direction based on the position and orientation of the sonobuoy relative to the expulsion opening, significantly reducing alignment time
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that detect the position and orientation of sonobuoys in each seat. This feedback information is used by the control system to determine the optimal rotation direction and timing for expediting sonobuoy release while preventing misalignment
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 system effectively retains sonobuoys during transport, prevents misalignments, and optimizes the release process by aligning sonobuoys with the shortest path to the expulsion opening, enhancing safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
each seat comprises a support system for supporting the sonobuoy from below
Implementation Method 2
each seat comprises a plurality of retaining elements, each of which switchable between a configuration of laterally retaining a respective sonobuoy
Implementation Method 3
The device comprises a carousel rotatable about a respective axis of longitudinal extension
Implementation Method 4
sonobuoys, which have a cylindrical shape with a circular cross section, are released by the device and made to pass under gravity through an expulsion opening
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
Device 1 for containing and releasing sonobuoys 10, comprising a carousel rotatable about a respective axis X of longitudinal extension and having a lower portion 4 and an upper portion 5, each of which endowed with a plurality of seats 3 for housing respective sonobuoys 10; each seat 3 comprising a support system 7 for supporting the sonobuoy 10 from below; characterised in that each seat 3 further comprises a plurality of retaining elements 15, each of which switchable between a configuration of laterally retaining a respective sonobuoy 10, wherein it defines in the seat 3 a housing volume 12 for the sonobuoy 10, and a configuration of access to the seat 3 in order to house the sonobuoy 10 in the seat 3.