Torpedo Tube Clamping Structure With Spring-Return Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weapon launcher tube holding systems, such as those for torpedoes, often experience handling errors leading to defective or false blocking of the weapon, which can result in serious consequences for the weapon and operators.
Innovation Solution
A structure for a weapon-launching tube incorporating a clamp mechanism with elastic biasing means, specifically a helical spring, to ensure the gripper mechanism automatically returns to the closed position, preventing false unlocking and enhancing secure retention of the weapon.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional holding system with actuating means is used to block the weapon in the tube, then the weapon can be secured in position, but handling errors may occur leading to defective or false blocking
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses elastic biasing means that automatically return the gripper mechanism to the closed blocking position without requiring continuous operator intervention. The elastic means self-correct any accidental openings, making the system self-regulating and resistant to handling errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic biasing means continuously applies a pre-set blocking force to counteract any accidental opening forces. This preliminary anti-action ensures that even if the actuating means accidentally releases the weapon, the elastic means immediately restores the blocking position, preventing false unlocking.
2Ease of operation
If the gripper mechanism is made manually operable for simplicity, then ease of operation is improved, but the risk of handling errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic biasing means automatically maintains the blocking force without requiring continuous manual adjustment. The system self-corrects any deviations from the proper blocking position, ensuring consistent reliability while maintaining manual operability for intentional release.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the force parameter by introducing elastic biasing that continuously applies a predetermined blocking force. This physical parameter change ensures consistent blocking pressure regardless of operator variability, improving reliability while preserving manual control capability.
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 elastic biasing mechanism ensures consistent and reliable blocking of the weapon in the tube, reducing the likelihood of handling errors and ensuring safe operation during carrier movements and firing.
Implementation Method 1
the elastic means comprise a helical spring placed at the rear of the cylinder to push the latter
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a weapon tube and particularly a torpedo tube structure comprising a system (3) for holding the weapon in a storage position in the tube, comprising a clamping mechanism (4) which is connected to the structure and can be moved by actuating means (5) between a closed position for locking an interface part of the weapon in order to lock said weapon in position in the structure and an open position for releasing said interface part and therefore the weapon, said structure being characterised in that it comprises elastic means (13) for soliciting the clamping mechanism (4) in the closed position.