UUV Launcher Gravity Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current helicopter-based deployment systems for unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) are complex, prone to corrosion, expensive, and inefficient, making them unsuitable for reliable and cost-effective operation.
Innovation Solution
A UUV launcher system comprising a frame, canister coupler, UUV coupling device, arming pin engagement feature, and separation device, allowing for shipboard deployment and strategic release of UUVs into the water, with automatic arming of the warhead upon reaching a predetermined depth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If helicopter-based deployment systems are used for UUVs, then deployment capability is achieved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to corrosion and failure of gears, screws, switches, and electronic control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex mechanical components (gears, screws, switches) and electronic control systems from the deployment mechanism. The solution uses a simple gravity-based release system where a latch mechanism holds the UUV on the launcher rail, and a simple release trigger allows the UUV to slide down under gravity into the water, removing all complex mechanical transmission elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical deployment system with a gravity-based passive release mechanism. Instead of using motors, gears, and electronic controls to deploy the UUV, the system uses a simple latch-and-release mechanism that allows the UUV to be deployed by gravity when the latch is released, eliminating complex mechanical systems.
2Ease of manufacture
If helicopter-based deployment systems are used for UUVs, then deployment capability is achieved, but manufacturing cost and operating cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a simple, inexpensive launcher structure that can be easily manufactured and potentially discarded or replaced. The launcher consists of a basic rail structure with a simple latch mechanism, avoiding expensive materials and complex manufacturing processes. This disposable or easily replaceable approach reduces both manufacturing cost and the risk of costly failures.
3Reliability
If arming pin engagement feature is used to engage arming pin upon securing UUV to launcher, then safety is improved by preventing premature arming, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the arming pin engagement feature with the existing latch mechanism that secures the UUV to the launcher. The same mechanical structure that holds the UUV in place also engages the arming pin, eliminating the need for a separate arming mechanism. This merging of functions maintains safety while avoiding additional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism serves multiple functions: it secures the UUV to the launcher rail and simultaneously engages the arming pin to prevent premature arming. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate safety mechanisms, maintaining reliability while reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
An unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) shipboard launcher system, which comprises a deployment device and an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) launcher. The UUV launcher includes a frame, a canister coupler to facilitate coupling of a communication line canister of a UUV to the launcher, and a UUV coupling device supported about the frame to releasably secure the UUV to the launcher. The UUV launcher also includes an arming pin engagement feature supported about the frame, and operable to engage an arming pin of the UUV upon being secured to the launcher, as well as a separation device supported about the frame and adapted to force the UUV away from the UUV launcher upon release of the UUV by the UUV coupling device, which separation may function to remove the arming pin and arm the UUV.