Articulation mechanism and elastomeric nozzle for thrust-vectored control of an undersea vehicle
US7465201B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 6, 2005 |
| Grant date | Dec 16, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 8, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63H25/46
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The mechanism of the present invention maneuvers a vehicle by deflecting the flow from a propulsor of the vehicle. The mechanism has an elastomeric nozzle that encases the flow and is deflected via an articulation device mountable inside the vehicle. The nozzle is shaped and supported by spiral-wound composite to maintain a circular cross-section through a range of motion. An end of the nozzle is attached to the shroud of the propulsor and another end is supported by a ring with support struts radiating from a hub. The hub is supported by a shaft attached to a gimbal. The gimbal is constrained in movement by an outer race and an anti-rotation stud in a radial slot in a ball of the gimbal. A linkage as part of an articulation device controls rotation of the gimbal to direct movement of the shaft and enclosed nozzle thereby deflecting flow of the propulsor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.