Submarine Hatch Cover Segmentation for DSRV Docking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Submarines with additional manholes in the tower area face interference between small-distant fairing and hatch covers, preventing complete 90° opening, especially when the DSRV is docked, due to standardized docking flange and bell-shaped structure sizes.
Innovation Solution
The submarine design features a subdivided fairing cover that can be moved relative to the hatch cover, allowing for complete 90° opening by telescoping, pivoting, or sliding sections, ensuring the covers do not interfere and can be folded to save space during docking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the fairing cover and hatch cover are positioned close together to achieve a flush outer skin, then the outer skin appearance is improved, but the covers cannot be fully opened due to interference between them
Solution Approach 1:
The fairing cover is divided into multiple sections that can move relative to each other. This segmentation allows the fairing cover to be compact when closed (maintaining flush outer skin) and to expand or fold open when needed (allowing hatch cover to open fully without interference).
Solution Approach 2:
The fairing cover transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one with movable sections. The sections can pivot or telescope relative to each other, enabling the cover to adapt its configuration between closed (flush) and open (non-interfering) states.
2Reliability
If the hatch cover and fairing cover are made large to ensure proper sealing and docking, then the sealing capability is improved, but the space required for opening the covers increases
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the large fairing cover into smaller movable sections allows it to occupy less space during operation. The sections can be folded or telescoped into a compact configuration that fits within the available space around the docking bell, while still providing adequate coverage when closed.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable sections of the fairing cover can be nested or folded into each other during operation, similar to a telescopic structure. This nesting capability allows the large cover to be stored in a compact form factor when open, reducing the volume occupied during hatch cover operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the docking flange and bell-shaped structure are standardized to ensure compatibility, then the adaptability is improved, but the space consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized docking structure is combined with a segmented fairing cover that can be positioned close to the hatch cover when closed (maintaining flush appearance) and moved away or folded when open (reducing interference). This segmentation allows the system to accommodate standardized docking requirements while minimizing space consumption during operation.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
The submarine has a pressure body with a shaft (3), sealed from external pressures by a swing hatch lid (6) on the hull (11), and a cover over it in at least two parts (12a,12b) which move against each other on parallel axes. The shaft cover gives access to a docked deep submergence rescue vehicle (DSRV) through a bell-shaped body (8).