Spherical Countermeasure Orb with Radial Sensor Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current countermeasure systems against torpedoes are outdated and ineffective against fast-moving, sophisticated underwater threats due to limitations in deployment speed, coverage, and potential damage to marine life and infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A ballistically delivered anti-torpedo countermeasure system that deploys neutrally buoyant, orb-shaped devices equipped with line deployment mechanisms, sensors, and countermeasures, creating a spherical volume to detect and disrupt incoming threats using sensors, jamming signals, and explosives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If large nets are deployed to counter torpedoes, then coverage area is improved, but deployment speed deteriorates and damage to marine life increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the countermeasure system into multiple independent line units radiating from a central orb. Each line can be deployed independently and carries its own sensor array and explosive charges, allowing rapid deployment while achieving comprehensive coverage through the radial configuration of multiple segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from two-dimensional net deployment to three-dimensional spherical coverage by radiating lines in multiple directions from a central orb. This dimensional change enables rapid deployment of extensive coverage volume without the mechanical constraints of traditional net spreading mechanisms.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If active sonar is used to detect threats, then detection capability is improved, but detectability by enemy torpedoes worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor arrays on the lines employ periodic sonar pinging to detect threats. By using intermittent rather than continuous active sonar, the system maintains detection capability while reducing the time window for enemy detection and engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The distributed sensor arrays on multiple lines act as intermediaries for threat detection, allowing the system to monitor the environment through passive listening and periodic active pinging without requiring a centralized active sonar source that would be easily detected by enemy torpedoes.
3Strength
If explosive charges are deployed close to threaten torpedo, then destruction effectiveness is improved, but risk to friendly vessels worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The explosive charges are distributed locally along multiple radial lines at specific distances from the central orb. This localized distribution allows the system to concentrate destructive effect on threats entering the protected sphere while maintaining safe distances from friendly vessels through precise placement and controlled detonation timing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs preliminary detection by sensor arrays on the lines to identify approaching threats before they reach the explosive charges. This early detection enables preemptive detonation of charges to destroy threats at a distance, reducing the risk to friendly vessels while maintaining destruction effectiveness.
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 counters fast-moving torpedoes by rapidly deploying a field of lines with sensors and countermeasures, enhancing detection and disruption capabilities while minimizing damage to friendly vessels and marine life.
Implementation Method 1
one or more neutrally buoyant, generally spherical communications and control orb-shaped devices
Implementation Method 2
miniature propulsion devices, such as microrockets or engine/screw propulsion devices, each such device towing a respective line
Data Source
AI summary
A method for countering an oncoming threat is disclosed. A location in front of the threat is selected, and a generally spherical volume is defined by a plurality of lines deployed from a centrally located communications unit. Sensors associated with the lines are connected to the communications unit and sense presence of the oncoming threat, whereupon countermeasures are activated responsive to the sensed oncoming threat.