Submarine Lifting Apparatus with Shared Guide for Independent Device Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lifting apparatuses for submarines are limited in integrating multiple atmospheric interface devices of reduced size for independent operation, requiring cumbersome dedicated systems that are difficult to integrate and increase overall dimensions and weight.
Innovation Solution
A lifting apparatus with a single guide element interposed between two movable mounting units, each equipped with independent actuators, allowing for simultaneous or sequential lifting of multiple devices, reducing the overall size and weight by utilizing a shared supporting member and guides integrated within the conning tower.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple atmospheric interface devices are lifted using dedicated lifting apparatuses, then each device can operate independently, but the overall size and weight of the system increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple lifting functions into a single shared lifting apparatus. The guide structure supports multiple movable mounting units that can independently position and lift different atmospheric interface devices, eliminating the need for separate dedicated lifting systems for each device while maintaining independent operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting apparatus is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple types of atmospheric interface devices simultaneously. The guide and movable mounting unit configuration allows the same apparatus to service sensors, antennas, periscopes, and other interface devices, making the system multi-functional rather than dedicated to a single device type.
2Weight of stationary object
If multiple atmospheric interface devices are integrated on a single lifting apparatus, then size and weight are reduced, but the devices cannot operate independently
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting apparatus is segmented into multiple independent movable mounting units, each capable of autonomous positioning and operation. Each mounting unit can independently carry and position atmospheric interface devices along the guide structure, enabling devices to operate independently even when shared infrastructure is used.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic movable mounting units that can independently travel along the guide structure and position devices at different locations and times. This dynamic capability allows multiple devices to be serviced independently by the same lifting apparatus, with each device being able to reach its optimal operating position autonomously.
3Reliability
If dedicated lifting apparatuses are used for each sensor or antenna, then independent operation is ensured, but the system becomes complex and difficult to integrate
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple dedicated lifting functions are merged into a single integrated guide structure with multiple movable mounting units. This consolidation reduces the total number of separate lifting apparatuses needed while maintaining the independent operation capability through the modular mounting unit design.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting apparatus is designed as a universal platform that can handle multiple device types through standardized movable mounting units. This universality simplifies integration compared to dedicated apparatuses for each device type, as the same infrastructure serves multiple functions with consistent operational protocols.
4Volume of stationary object
If the lifting apparatus is reduced in size for better integration, then space is saved, but the capability to lift multiple devices independently is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The movable mounting units are designed to nest within or along the guide structure, allowing compact storage when not in use. The units can be positioned along the length of the guide, utilizing vertical and horizontal space efficiently, thereby reducing the overall volume footprint while maintaining the capability to service multiple devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the vertical dimension of the guide structure to accommodate multiple movable mounting units at different heights. This vertical arrangement allows multiple devices to be lifted and positioned independently within a compact horizontal footprint, effectively trading vertical space for reduced overall volume.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
A lifting apparatus for devices (3) used for detection, observation, air intake or communication on a submarine comprises a first movable mounting unit (4) and a second movable mounting unit (5) equipped at the top of them with at least one detection or communication device (3) and at least one actuator (9) associated with the first movable mounting unit (4) and/or with the second movable mounting unit (5) to move them along a main direction of movement (B). The apparatus further comprises a supporting member (10) extending along the main direction (B) and interposed between the first movable mounting unit (4) and the second movable mounting unit (5) and also having a pair of guides (11, 12), each extending along the main direction (B) and slidably coupled to a respective movable mounting unit (4, 5) to guide its movement along the selfsame main direction (B).