EP3899409B1 - Device and method for launching an underwater projectile from a watercraft - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a launching device for launching an underwater running body from a platform, in particular from a watercraft, and a method using such a launching device.

It is known to launch a large rocket vertically upwards from a submarine. For example, by means of compressed air, the missile is ejected from the submarine's ramp while the submarine is underwater and near the water's surface. After the ejected rocket leaves the water, one of the rocket's engines is fired.

Vertical launch pads for rockets are known from underwater vehicles and also from surface ships. In some applications, the missile is loaded into the launcher in a canister and ejected from the canister vertically or at an angle, leaving the canister in the launch pad.

US 5,837,919 A discloses a launcher having means for directing and concentrically distributing and scattering exhaust gases produced by internal combustion of an object, such as an object. B. a missile generated, which can be operationally shot down from there.

EP 2 003 417 A1 discloses a structure for supporting missile pods of a vertical missile launcher.

US 4,173,919A discloses a system using a rocket chamber design shaped to reduce and control combustion therein.

EP 2 107 331 A1 discloses an apparatus for launching a torpedo.

The object of the invention is to provide a starting device with the features of the preamble of claim 1 and a method with the features of the preamble of claim 15, in which the starting device enables the underwater running body to be started under water and which is simpler in construction than known starting devices .

This object is achieved by a starting device having the features specified in claim 1 and a method having the features specified in claim 15 . Advantageous developments result from the dependent claims, the following description and the drawings.

The starting device according to the invention is able to start an underwater running body from a watercraft or from another platform under water. The underwater running body to be launched includes an engine. This engine can be activated and ejects a propellant when activated.

• eine Rampe und
• eine Treibmittel-Umlenkeinheit.

The starting device according to the solution includes

• a ramp and
• a propellant deflection unit.

The ramp extends along a longitudinal axis of the ramp and is able to enclose and hold the underwater running body under water. The launcher is capable of activating the engine of the submersible while the submersible is enclosed and supported underwater by the ramp. After the underwater running body is launched, the ramp steers the launched underwater running body on a first part of its trajectory depending on the orientation of the ramp's longitudinal axis.

The propellant deflection unit directs ejected propellant in an outlet direction. This outlet direction of the propellant points perpendicularly or obliquely from the platform away, on which the starting device is mounted and from which the underwater running body is started.

An underwater running body within the meaning of the invention is an unmanned underwater vehicle which converts fuel into propellant, e.g. burns it, ejects the propellant produced and is moved through the water by the ejection of the propellant. It is possible that the underwater running body has an additional drive means. The underwater running body can operate autonomously or be remotely controlled, for example via a wire.

According to the solution, the starting device is able to start an underwater running body with an engine. An underwater running body with an engine which ejects a propellant can in many cases achieve greater acceleration and reach a target under water more quickly than an underwater running body which is solely driven by at least one propeller. This is important in some applications, for example when the submersible is intended to neutralize an attacking torpedo before it reaches the platform, such as a surface vessel, or other target.

The launch of the underwater running body using the launch device according to the solution does not depend at all or at least to a lesser extent than known launch devices on the water depth of the launch device at the moment of launch.

The starting device according to the solution is able to pick up and start the underwater running body, while the ramp of the starting device and the underwater running body are below the water surface. The target for the underwater barrel can also be located completely or at least partially below the water surface. It is possible to configure the underwater barrel for use exclusively under water. In this case, the movement of the underwater carriage can be controlled more easily than if the underwater carriage were to fly both through the water and through the air. In particular, the underwater carriage is prevented from changing its trajectory quickly and in a manner that is difficult or impossible to control, which can happen when the underwater carriage penetrates the water surface from the water or from the air.

The starting device according to the solution is able to activate the engine of the underwater running body while the underwater running body is still in the ramp and the ramp encloses and holds the underwater running body. The ramp guides the launched underwater running body on a first part of the trajectory until the underwater running body has reached a certain speed and thus kinetic energy and the risk is reduced that water currents etc. will throw the underwater running body off the path. These water currents can occur, for example, due to the movement of a platform, which carries the starting device according to the solution, through the water. The thruster is filled with a propellant and upon activation ejects generated propellant. The underwater running body is pushed out of the ramp by the ejection of the propellant. The thruster ejects the submersible from the ramp without the need for compressed air or a piston or other ejection mechanism to eject the submersible. Such a mechanism requires space and electrical and/or hydraulic and/or mechanical energy. Both are usually only available to a limited extent on board a platform, particularly if the platform is an underwater vehicle. In addition, an ejection mechanism often requires regular servicing and/or maintenance and there is a risk that this ejection mechanism will fail. A pneumatic circuit for a pneumatically operated ejection mechanism has the further disadvantage that gas bubbles can escape from a leak and rise to the water surface, which in many cases is undesirable. The invention thus leads to a starting device with a simpler mechanical structure and reduces the risk of gas bubbles escaping even before the start.

Because less space is required and no additional ejector mechanism needs to be fitted, the launcher is easier to mount onboard an existing platform. The starting device, together with the or each underwater running body, can often be accommodated in already existing torpedo tubes of a surface water vehicle or underwater vehicle that are arranged under water.

An underwater barrel body is often delivered in a canister. The canister together with the underwater running body is inserted into the ramp. When the engine is activated and ejects propellant, the underwater barrel exits the canister, which remains in the ramp. It is possible, but not necessary thanks to the invention, for an ejection mechanism to open or pierce the canister in order to eject the underwater barrel body.

When the thruster is activated, the underwater carriage in the ramp ejects propellant in an ejection direction that is usually parallel to the ramp's longitudinal axis and opposite to the direction in which the underwater carriage exits the ramp (actio equals reactio ). As a result, the underwater running body is displaced in a starting direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the ramp and is then ejected from the ramp. The launching direction of the submersible body is typically away from the platform, and therefore the ejection direction of the propellant is towards the platform. Particularly in the case of a watercraft as the platform, it is undesirable for the ejected propellant to reach the interior of the watercraft or to heat the ramp or a hull of the watercraft too much. The propellant deflection unit prevents this undesired event.

A hazard for a crew member of the platform, which includes the launch device with the ramp, and for the platform itself must not occur even if the underwater running body does not leave the ramp after the engine is activated due to a fault, but e.g. B. is stuck in the ramp or is otherwise held or if a flap of the ramp is not open. In this case, the underwater running body ejects propellant in the ramp until the The engine has run out of fuel. Therefore, a significantly larger amount of propellant is expelled in the ramp than in a clean launch. Thanks to the propellant diverter, despite this error, the ejected propellant is moved away from the platform, namely in the outlet direction that the propellant diverter determines. This feature prevents the dangerous and therefore undesirable event of the ejected propellant heating the ramp to the point of exploding or igniting propellant or a warhead of the underwater vehicle, or damaging the heated ramp or a vehicle hull.

It is possible, but not necessary thanks to the propellant deflection unit, for the launch device to have a mechanism that shuts down the engine or deactivates a warhead if the underwater running body does not leave the ramp after the engine has been activated due to a fault.

• Die Auslassrichtung des Treibmittels ist parallel zur Rampen-Längsachse und damit parallel zur Ausstoßrichtung des Unterwasser-Laufkörpers.
• Das von der Treibmittel-Umlenkeinheit umgelenkte Treibmittel tritt aus der Treibmittel-Umlenkeinheit mit einem Abstand, beispielsweise mit einem seitlichen oder vertikalen Versatz, zur Rampen-Längsachse aus.

In one embodiment of the invention, the propellant deflection unit is designed and arranged to bring about the following:

• The outlet direction of the propellant is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the ramp and thus parallel to the ejection direction of the underwater running element.
• The propellant deflected by the propellant deflection unit exits the propellant deflection unit at a distance, for example with a lateral or vertical offset, from the longitudinal axis of the ramp.

In this embodiment, the propellant is ejected in the same direction as the underwater barrel body, but with a lateral offset and not from the ramp but from the propellant deflection unit. When the underwater running body is started under water, an impulse is exerted on the surrounding water in only one direction, namely on the one hand by the underwater running body and on the other hand by the ejected propellant. This means that turbulence and/or gas bubbles do not occur in two places far apart from each other in the water, which can be discovered and provide information about the issuing platform.

In addition, this configuration enables a particularly compact and space-saving design. The entire starting device extends essentially along the longitudinal axis of the ramp and has only relatively small dimensions perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the ramp. This is particularly important when the launcher is mounted onboard a submersible.

In an alternative embodiment, the outlet direction of the propellant encloses an acute angle with the longitudinal axis of the ramp. An acute or obtuse angle preferably occurs between the outlet direction and the ejection direction of the underwater running body. The propellant deflection unit deflects the propellant through an obtuse angle. The deflection angle is preferably greater than 60°, particularly preferably greater than 120°.

In the obtuse turning angle design, the distance between the launched underwater vehicle and the propellant which has left the propellant turning unit increases during movement of the underwater vehicle. As a result, an interaction between the propellant which has left the propellant deflection unit and the underwater running body is avoided with greater certainty. This interaction is undesirable in some situations, for example because the movement control of the underwater running body can be made more difficult or an active or passive sonar system of the underwater running body can deliver incorrect results.

In one embodiment, the starting device includes, in addition to the first ramp, a second ramp which extends along a second longitudinal axis of the ramp and is at a distance from the first longitudinal axis of the ramp. The two longitudinal axes of the ramp can be arranged parallel to one another or at an angle lock in. The second ramp is capable of enclosing, supporting and directing a second underwater carriage underwater.

Thanks to the second ramp, the launcher is able to launch two underwater running bodies simultaneously or one after the other without having to be reloaded onto a ramp in between.

• Ein Treibmittel, das vom ersten Unterwasser-Laufkörper in der ersten Rampe ausgestoßen wird, wird in die zugeordnete Treibmittel-Umlenkeinheit geleitet.
• Ein Treibmittel, das vom zweiten Unterwasser-Laufkörper in der zweiten Rampe ausgestoßen wird, wird in dieselbe zugeordnete Treibmittel-Umlenkeinheit geleitet.

It is possible that the starting device includes a further propellant deflection unit. Each ramp is assigned its own propellant deflection unit. In a preferred embodiment, on the other hand, the same propellant deflection unit is assigned to both the first ramp and the second ramp. The starting device is designed and arranged to effect the following:

• A propellant ejected from the first underwater barrel in the first ramp is directed into the associated propellant diverter unit.
• Propellant ejected from the second undersea barrel in the second ramp is directed into the same associated propellant diverter.

In this embodiment, the same propellant deflection unit is used for at least two different ramps. This embodiment saves space compared to an embodiment in which each ramp is assigned its own propellant deflection unit.

It is possible for a first group with at least two ramps to be assigned a first propellant deflection unit and for a second group with at least one further ramp to be assigned a second propellant deflection unit.

The starting device preferably includes a locking device which is assigned to the first ramp. It is possible that a further locking device of the same type is assigned to the second ramp. The or each locking device can be switched into a locking state and into a release state, preferably independently of any other locking device.

The associated locking device in the locked state prevents the locked underwater running body in the ramp from moving relative to the ramp, in particular from tilting or slipping out of the ramp. The detent in the released state allows the underwater carriage to exit the ramp.

In a preferred embodiment, as long as the locking device is in the locking state, the starting device not only prevents or blocks movement of the underwater running body, but also activation of the engine. As a result, the engine can only be activated when the locking device has been transferred to the release state.

In the locked state, the locking device prevents the underwater running body from performing an undesired movement relative to the ramp before the engine is activated. Such undesired movement could damage the underwater carriage and/or the ramp or result in the underwater carriage not being able to leave the ramp. According to the preferred embodiment, the engine can only be activated and the underwater running body can only leave the ramp when the locking device is in the released state. Thanks to this configuration, the undesired event that the drive mechanism of the underwater running body is activated, although the locking device is still in the locking state, is prevented. This undesired event can result in the underwater drive body being stuck in the ramp with the engine activated, for example because ejected propellant prevents the locking device from being placed in the release state.

In a further development of this refinement, the starting device includes a position sensor. This position sensor can positively detect the event that the locking device is in the release state. "Detect positive" means that the position sensor generates a signal when it detects the event. The starting device is able to activate the engine after the position sensor has detected that the locking device is in the unlocked state. Thus, the engine is activated in response to the event that the locking device is in the release state. Activation of the first thruster may also be inhibited until the position sensor detects this event.

This refinement with the position sensor makes it possible to meet a legal requirement, namely that an engine may only be activated when a specific safety-related event has been physically discovered. According to this embodiment, the event that the position sensor discovers that the locking device is in the release state and has generated a corresponding signal is used as the safety-relevant event. This refinement thus shows a way of meeting a legal requirement for activating an engine.

The position sensor then preferably sends a corresponding signal when it has discovered the release state. The engine can only be activated if the release signal is present. In this way, if the position sensor or a control unit of the starting device fails or the signal transmission is interrupted, a safe state is ensured, namely that the engine is not activated.

According to the invention, water can penetrate into the first ramp and/or into the second ramp, and this is desirable. A ramp flap preferably then closes the ramp from surrounding water when the ramp flap is in a closed state. In an open condition, the ramp hatch allows water to enter the ramp. The launcher is able to open the ramp flap and thereby allow water to flow into the ramp. The launcher opens the ramp door before the launcher activates the underwater vehicle's engine. Thus, the submersible body is surrounded by water in the ramp when its engine is fired. This makes it easier to control the trajectory of the underwater carriage compared to one Configuration in which the launched underwater running body suddenly hits water.

Experience has shown that the starting device starts the underwater barrel under water. Depending on the design of the starting device and the current operating situation, the outlet opening of the propellant deflection unit can be located above or below the water surface. The ejected and deflected propellant can thus be ejected above or below the water surface.

In one embodiment, a deflection unit flap separates the propellant deflection unit from the surrounding fluid, in the case of an ejection of propellant below the water surface from the surrounding water, as long as the deflection unit flap is closed. In one embodiment, an actuator is able to open this deflection unit flap. In a preferred embodiment, on the other hand, ejected and deflected propellant is able to open the deflection unit flap or cause it to burst. This preferred embodiment saves an actuator for the deflection unit flap.

In one embodiment, the deflected propellant is only able to open the deflection unit flap when the pressure exerted by the propellant on the flap exceeds a predetermined limit. This barrier can be dimensioned in such a way that the flap remains closed in the event of a faultless launch of the underwater vehicle and the pressure of the propellant contributes in addition to the recoil to ejecting the underwater vehicle. Only if the submersible body does not leave the ramp due to a fault does the pressure of the ejected propellant open the flap.

In the closed state, the deflection unit flap prevents the surrounding fluid, in particular water, from penetrating into the propellant deflection unit. Furthermore, when the platform is a watercraft, it allows the diverter unit flap to have a streamlined shape when closed of the watercraft contributes. This reduces the risk of water turbulence occurring at an outlet opening of the propellant deflection unit.

If the ejected propellant is capable of opening the diverter door, it is not necessary to open the diverter door by means of an actuator. Such an actuator may be defective. In addition, in some applications it may take too much time to open the diverter unit flap using an actuator. Opening with the help of the propellant works quickly and without an actuator.

In one application, the starting device according to the solution is mounted on board a watercraft. The propellant deflection unit is preferably mounted on board this watercraft in such a way that the following is effected in a standard floating position of the watercraft: the entire trajectory or at least the last stretch of the trajectory of propellant, which is directed into the propellant deflection unit and through the propellant - Deflection unit is moved is horizontal or ascending.

This refinement prevents the undesirable occurrence of gases remaining in the propellant deflection unit and only gradually escaping while the watercraft is in motion. The watercraft would then leave a trail of bubbles behind it, which is often undesirable, especially for an underwater vehicle. Rather, thanks to the design, all of the gases exit in a single gush.

In one embodiment, the starting device includes a ramp actuator. This ramp actuator is able to pivot the ramp. In particular, this makes it possible to change the ejection direction in which the underwater running body is ejected from the ramp. In one embodiment, a pivoting of the ramp has the effect that the outlet direction in which propellant is discharged from the propellant deflection unit is also changed.

The ramp actuator is capable of pivoting the ramp and thereby changing the orientation of the ramp's longitudinal axis relative to the platform. This allows the underwater running body to be launched in a desired one of several possible directions. In the case of a watercraft as the platform, the underwater ramp is allowed to be in a hydrodynamically favorable position relative to the direction of travel of the watercraft before the underwater vehicle is launched in the ramp. The ramp therefore causes relatively little water resistance while the watercraft is moving. When the underwater vehicle is to be launched, the ramp actuator pivots the ramp relative to the vehicle hull to a desired position for launch. For example, the ramp actuator pivots the first ramp(s) from a cruise position to a launch position before the engine is activated.

The starting device according to the solution is a component of a platform, in particular a watercraft, or can be mounted on board a platform at least temporarily. Thanks in particular to the propellant deflection unit, it is often possible with little effort to retrofit a starting device according to the solution on board a platform or to supplement an existing starting device and thereby increase operational reliability.

In one embodiment, this watercraft includes a weapon tube, for example a torpedo tube or a tube to eject mines or containers or underwater swimming aids. The entire starting device or at least the ramp with the underwater barrel body and the optional locking device is arranged in this weapon barrel. It is possible that an adapter is inserted into the inside of the gun barrel in order to bridge the distance between the larger inside diameter of the gun barrel and the smaller outside diameter of the ramp. It is even possible that two ramps of a starting device according to the solution are inserted into the interior of the same weapon barrel with the aid of an adapter. It is also possible to mount the starting device on an outer hull of the watercraft so that the launching device is permanently surrounded by water and can be quickly prepared for launching an underwater running body.

The launcher platform may be a manned or unmanned surface vehicle or underwater vehicle. This watercraft can have its own drive or be designed without its own drive. The platform can also be stationary on the water, for example on board an oil rig or a buoy, or mounted on land and there on a shore, for example to protect a harbor from attack.

• Fig. 1 in einer Seitenansicht eine lösungsgemäße Startvorrichtung mit zwei Rampen für zwei Unterwasser-Raketen, wobei das Raketen-Triebwerk einer Unterwasser-Rakete gerade gezündet worden ist und die andere Unterwasser Rakete noch arretiert ist;
• Fig. 2 eine beispielhafte Arretier-Vorrichtung für eine Unterwasser-Rakete in drei aufeinanderfolgenden Zuständen;
• Fig. 3 in einer Draufsicht eine Abwandlung der Startvorrichtung von Fig. 1;
• Fig. 4 in einer Seitenansicht eine weitere Abwandlung der Startvorrichtung von Fig. 1.

The starting device according to the invention is explained in more detail below with reference to an exemplary embodiment illustrated in the drawings. Here show:

• 1 in a side view a solution-based launch device with two ramps for two underwater rockets, the rocket engine of an underwater rocket has just been ignited and the other underwater rocket is still locked;
• 2 an exemplary locking device for an underwater missile in three consecutive states;
• 3 in a plan view a modification of the starting device from 1 ;
• 4 in a side view a further modification of the starting device from 1 .

In the exemplary embodiment, the invention is used in a starting device which is arranged on board an underwater vehicle, for example on board a manned submarine. The underwater vehicle has a vehicle hull Fh, for example a pressure hull or an outer hull. The starting device according to the solution is embedded flush in this vehicle shell Fh. The starting device according to the solution is preferably arranged completely outside the pressure hull, ie between the pressure hull and the outer shell, and is exposed to the pressure of the surrounding water during a diving trip.

The invention can be used on board a surface vehicle as well. In this application, the starting device is mounted on an area of the vehicle hull Fh of the surface water vehicle, which area remains permanently below the water surface during use. The underwater missile remains under water throughout the journey.

The launch device is capable of launching at least one underwater rocket, in the exemplary embodiment several underwater rockets, below the water surface WO. An underwater rocket is understood to mean a running body that is designed for use under water and has a rocket engine, i.e. a drive that can be activated and, after activation, converts a fuel into a propellant, e.g. burns the propellant produced ejects and thereby moves the barrel body in the opposite direction to the ejection direction of the propellant. In the exemplary embodiment, the underwater missile remains below the water surface WO throughout the entire operation and can withstand the water pressure down to a predetermined maximum water depth. The underwater missile may have a cruise engine plus a launch engine used only to launch the underwater missile, or a single engine for the entire trip. In the following, the term "rocket engine" is used for that engine which causes the underwater rocket to be launched from the ramp. As a rule, an underwater missile accelerates faster in the water than a torpedo, which is propelled by at least one propeller.

Each underwater missile also includes a sonar system, which operates actively and/or passively, and a warhead with an explosive charge and is designed to use the sonar system to locate another underwater vehicle, to drive towards it and, by detonating the explosive charge, to locate it Destroy underwater carriage before the underwater carriage reaches the watercraft with the launcher or another watercraft.

In 1 the starting device of an embodiment according to the solution is shown in a side view. The starting device comprises two ramps 3.1, 3.2 arranged one above the other, each in the form of a cylindrical tube and each extending along a longitudinal axis La.1 or La.2 of the ramp. The two parallel longitudinal axes La.1, La.2 of the two ramps 3.1, 3.2 lie in the plane of the drawing 1 . It is possible that further ramps of the starting device are arranged in front of or behind the ramps 3.1, 3.2. The direction of travel of the watercraft is perpendicular or oblique to the plane of the drawing 1 .

Each ramp 3.1, 3.2 is capable of receiving a canister 2.1, 2.2 with an underwater rocket 1.1, 1.2. It is possible for an adapter to be arranged inside a ramp 3.1, 3.2, so that the same ramp 3.1, 3.2 can successively accommodate objects with different diameters. It is also possible that an adapter is arranged in the interior of a canister 2.1, 2.2, so that several examples of identical canisters 2.1, 2.2 can be used for underwater rockets with different diameters.

In one embodiment, each ramp 3.1, 3.2 has a muzzle flap 6.1, 6.2, which is opened before the underwater rocket 1.1, 1.2 is launched. At the latest when an underwater rocket 1.1, 1.2 is launched, the ramp 3.1, 3.2 is filled with water, so that there is no pressure difference between the ramp 3.1, 3.2 and the surrounding water. The casing of the underwater rocket 1.1, 1.2 is able to withstand the surrounding water pressure. Instead of a muzzle flap 6.1, 6.2, a membrane can also be provided at the outer end of a ramp 3.1, 3.2, which is pierced by the head of the underwater rocket 1.1, 1.2 when it is launched.

In one embodiment, the ramps 3.1, 3.2 are movably attached to the outer hull of the submarine. Before the underwater rockets 1.1, 1.2 are launched, the ramps 3.1, 3.2 are in a hydrodynamically favorable position in which they cause as little water resistance as possible. Before an underwater missile 1.1, 1.2 is launched, a ramp actuator (not shown) pivots the ramps 3.1, 3.2 into one desired direction towards the target. It is also possible that the ramps 3.1, 3.2 are permanently mounted on the outer shell, for example perpendicularly or at an angle to the direction of travel. In another embodiment, each ramp 3.1, 3.2 is embedded in a torpedo tube of the submarine.

Each underwater rocket 1.1, 1.2 includes a rocket engine and several stabilizing fins. The rocket engine is able to eject a propellant, which moves the underwater rocket 1.1, 1.2 through the water when used underwater. The stabilizing fins stabilize the movement of the underwater missile 1.1, 1.2 through the water.

An underwater rocket 1.1, 1.2 is transported to the watercraft in a round-cylindrical canister 2.1, 2.2. The canister 2.1, 2.2 with the underwater rocket 1.1, 1.2 is inserted into a ramp 3.1, 3.2 and remains ready for use in this ramp 3.1, 3.2 while the watercraft with the starting device according to the solution performs a specified task. Each canister 2.1, 2.2 has a front membrane 7.1, 7.2 and a rear membrane 8.1, 8.2. The terms "front" and "rear" refer to the direction of travel of the underwater missile 1.1, 1.2 out of the canister 2.1, 2.2. The canister 2.1, 2.2 surrounds the underwater missile 1.1, 1.2 in a watertight and airtight manner. The space in the canister 2.1, 2.2 around the underwater missile 1.1, 1.2 is filled with a fluid, preferably an inert fluid. A sealing plug 13 at the rear of the rocket engine of the underwater rocket 1.1 prevents fluid from entering the interior of the engine before the engine is activated. The canister 2.1, 2.2 need not necessarily be able to withstand the pressure of the surrounding water or the pressure of the ejected propellant Tr.1. Rather, before the underwater rocket 1.1, 1.2 is launched, depending on the embodiment, the ramp 3.1, 3.2 and/or the shell of the underwater rocket 1.1, 1.2 absorbs this water pressure.

It is possible that a drainage channel is let into the interior of the canister 2.1, 2.2, which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the ramp La.1, La.2 and ejects Directs propellant, exhaust gases and fluid and facilitates their outflow from the canister 2.1, 2.2. The drainage channel also makes it easier to fill the canister 2.1, 2.2 with a fluid.

2 shows an example of a locking device that holds the underwater rocket 1.1 in the canister 2.1 and prevents the underwater rocket 1.1 from moving relative to the canister 2.1 while the watercraft is in motion and before launch, and therefore possibly from tilting. Two claws 9.1 and 9.2 engage in corresponding recesses on the rear of the underwater rocket 1.1 from two sides. The claw 9.1 is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation D.1, the claw 9.2 about an axis of rotation D.2. The axes of rotation D.1 and D.2 are perpendicular to the plane of the drawing 2 and are preferably supported on the wall of the canister 2.1. These two claws 9.1, 9.2 are connected to a ram 10 via an articulated connection 11. The ram 10 can be linearly displaced along the longitudinal axis La.1 of the ramp. The tappet 10 is surrounded by a chamber Km.1 which is filled with a fluid which is under overpressure. A closing unit 12 closes this chamber Km.1. It is possible that three or four claws from three or four sides engage in corresponding recesses of the underwater missile 1.1, which is shown in the cross-sectional view in 2 is indicated on the right.

In order to release the locking of the underwater rocket 1.1 in the canister 2.1, the plunger 10 is pulled backwards, i.e. away from the canister 2.1 with the underwater rocket 1.1 (in 2 To the right). This also pulls the capping unit 12 backwards and the pressurized fluid exits the chamber Km.1, moving the ram 10 backwards and holding it in the retracted position. The conical shape of the closure unit 12 reinforces the linear movement of the ram 10 away from the canister 2.1. The linear movement of the ram 10 causes the articulation 11 to change from a T-shape to a Y-shape. The two points at which the connection 11 is connected to the two claws 9.1 and 9.2 are moved towards one another. This in turn causes the two claws 9.1 and 9.2 about the two axes of rotation D.1 and D.2 - or all four claws to the respective Axis of rotation - be turned around and release the underwater missile 1.1 in the canister 2.1. The linear movement of the ram 10 away from the underwater missile 1.1 also causes the rear membrane 8.1 of the canister 2.1 to be pierced.

In accordance with the requirements of STANAG 4368, the ignition of the engine Tw.1 of the underwater rocket 1.1 is blocked as long as the locking device with the claws 9.1, 9.2 keeps the underwater rocket 1.1 in the canister 2.1. A position sensor 16, for example a contact switch, generates a signal when the connection 11 hits the position sensor 16 while moving away from the canister 2.1. This event means that the locking device (claws 9.1, 9.2, plunger 10, connection 11) is in the release position. As soon as the event is positively discovered that the claws 9.1, 9.2 are in a release position, the blocking of the ignition of the engine Tw.1 is lifted and the engine of the underwater missile 1.1 can be ignited and thus activated. The canister 2.1 is electrically connected to a trigger device (not shown) outside the ramp 3.1, which fires the engine Tw.1. The sealing plug 13 at the rear of the engine Tw.1 of the underwater rocket 1.1 is ejected from the canister 2.1 through the open rear membrane 8.1.

In 1 a situation is shown in which the engine Tw.1 of the first underwater rocket 1.1 is ignited and the propellant Tr.1 ejects. The underwater rocket 1.1 leaves the canister 2.1 in an ejection direction AR, and the first canister 2.1 remains in the ramp 3.1. The second underwater rocket 1.2 is still locked in the second canister 2.2.

The propellant Tr.1 ejected from the underwater rocket 1.1 and the exhaust gases ejected penetrate the rear membrane 8.1 and reach a chamber Km, which is located behind the two ramps 3.1 and 3.2, cf. 1 . If the starting device has a further pair of ramps arranged one above the other, a corresponding chamber is preferably also arranged behind these further ramps.

The chamber Km is surrounded by a wall 4 which can withstand the heat and the mechanical impulse of the expelled propellant Tr.1. In particular, the wall 4 contributes to the fact that no propellant Tr.1 can get into the interior of the watercraft. Further propellant Tr.1 is ejected through the membrane 8.1, and the rear membrane 8.2 of the second canister 2.2 is closed and can also withstand the propellant Tr.1. Therefore, the ejected propellant Tr.1 can only escape from the chamber Km through a channel Ka. This channel Ka extends along a longitudinal axis La.K and is surrounded by a wall 5, which can also withstand the heat and the mechanical impulse of the propellant Tr.1. The longitudinal axis La.K of the channel Ka is preferably not arranged horizontally, but slightly upwards, which is shown in 1 is implied. Therefore, the wall 4 around the chamber K and the wall 5 around the channel Ka direct the ejected propellant Tr.1 to an outlet A, which is embedded flush in the vehicle shell Fh. This outlet A is closed by a flap 14 or membrane. The diverted propellant Tr.1 opens this flap 14 or membrane. An actuator for the flap 14 is therefore not required. In one embodiment, the outlet A is closed by a closure flap with a predetermined breaking point. The ejection of the propellant Tr.1 from the channel Ka causes this closure flap to break at the predetermined breaking point, the fragments are ejected and then the outlet A is opened.

In one embodiment, the ejected propellant Tm.1 opens the flap 14 in any case. In an alternative embodiment, the ejected propellant Tm.1 only opens the flap 14 when the pressure exerted by the propellant Tm.1 from the inside on the flap 14 exercises is above a predetermined limit. As long as the flap 14 is still closed, the pressure of the ejected propellant Tm.1 contributes to ejecting the underwater missile 1.1. At the same time, the desired safety effect is ensured, especially when the underwater missile 1.1 does not leave the ramp 3.1.

The propellant Tr.1 together with the fluid from the canister 2.1, exhaust gases and evaporated water is ejected outwards through the opened outlet A in an outlet direction AR.T. The desired effect that the propellant Tr.1 is ejected to the outside also occurs when the underwater rocket 1.1 is jammed in the canister 2.1 or in the ramp 3.1 and therefore does not leave the ramp 3.1. In this case, all the propellant Tr.1 of the underwater rocket 1.1 is discharged to the outside through the chamber Km, the channel Ka and the outlet A, without entering the interior of the watercraft.

Viewed in the direction in which the propellant Tr.1 is pushed through the channel Ka, the channel Ka rises slightly. Because of this, and because the propellant Tr.1 is lighter than water, all the propellant Tr.1 ejected into the chamber Km and entering the passage Ka exits the passage Ka quickly. No exhausted gas accumulates in the channel Ka. This prevents the watercraft from leaving a trail of bubbles due to propellant or exhaust gases gradually leaking from the channel Ka. This effect is particularly undesirable when the watercraft is an underwater vehicle on a diving trip.

In the example of 1 the chamber Km with the wall 4 and the channel Ka with the wall 5 and the outlet A are assigned to two adjacent ramps 3.1 and 3.2 and belong to a propellant deflection unit. Thus, one deflection device for the propellant is assigned to two adjacent ramps. This configuration makes it possible to save space, because fewer chambers and channels are required than the starting device comprises ramps. An alternative configuration is also possible, in which each ramp is assigned its own propellant deflection unit. The design with its own propellant deflection unit eliminates the need for the rear membrane 8.1, 8.2 of a canister 2.1, 2.2 to be able to withstand the ejected propellant of another underwater rocket.

In one embodiment, the channel Ka extends parallel to the longitudinal axis La.1, La.2 of a ramp 3.1, 3.2. The propellant Tr.1 is ejected parallel to the travel of the underwater rocket 1.1 and with a lateral offset. The propellant deflection unit thus deflects the propellant Tr.1 by 180°.

In 3 and 4 two alternative configurations are shown. The second ramp 3.2, the second canister 2.2 and the second underwater rocket 1.2 are in 3 and 4 Not shown. 3 shows an alternative embodiment in a plan view from above, 4 in a side view a further alternative embodiment. The watercraft is traveling in a direction FR (in 3 in the drawing plane and from bottom to top, in 4 perpendicular or oblique to the plane of the drawing). The longitudinal axis La.1 of the ramp 1.1 and the longitudinal axis La.K of the channel Ka also lie in the planes of the drawing 3 and 4 . In the 3 and 4 Situations shown are produced at least when starting the underwater running body 1.1. It is possible that a ramp actuator (not shown) has previously pivoted the ramp 1.1 into the firing position shown.

in the in 3 In the example shown, an angle of α=40° occurs between the longitudinal axis La.1 of the ramp 3.1 and the longitudinal axis La.K of the channel Ka. The longitudinal axis La.K of the channel Ka is perpendicular to the direction of travel FR, the longitudinal axis La.1 of the ramp 3.1 at an angle to the direction of travel FR. The ejection direction AR of the underwater rocket 1.1 thus points obliquely forward. The propellant deflection unit directs in the example of 3 the ejected propellant Tr.1 by 180° - α = 140° by. Of course, other deflection angles are also possible. The deflection angle is preferably between 90° and 180° (inclusive).

As in the side view of 4 can be seen, shows in this example the ejection direction AR of the underwater rocket 1.1 obliquely downwards and is perpendicular or oblique to the travel direction FR of the watercraft. The longitudinal axis La.K of the channel Ka and thus the outlet direction AR.T of the propellant Tr.1 points obliquely upwards. This prevents propellant Tr.1 in the channel Ka accumulates and bubbles emerge, leaving the craft in a trail of bubbles. Reference sign 1.1 first underwater barrel body in the form of an underwater rocket, includes the engine Tw.1, is included in the first canister 2.1 1.2 second underwater barrel body in the form of an underwater rocket is added to the second canister 2.2 2.1 first canister in which the first underwater rocket 1.1 is stored 2.2 second canister in which the second underwater missile 1.2 is stored 3.1 first ramp in which the first canister 2.1 is stored with the first underwater rocket 1.1 and which leads the first underwater rocket 1.1 at the start 3.2 second ramp, in which the second canister 2.2 is stored with the second underwater rocket 1.2 and which guides the second underwater rocket 1.2 at the start 4 Wall of the common chamber Km behind the two ramps 3.1 and 3.2 5 Wall of a canal Ka leading outwards from the chamber Km 6.1 Muzzle flap or membrane in front of the first ramp 3.1 is opened or pierced when the underwater rocket 1.1 is launched 6.2 Muzzle flap or membrane in front of the second ramp 3.2 is opened or pierced when the underwater rocket 1.2 is launched 7.1, 7.2 front membrane of the canister 2.1, 2.2 is pierced when the underwater missile 1.1, 1.2 is launched 8.1, 8.2 rear membrane of the canister 2.1, 2.2, adjoins the chamber Ka 9.1, 9.2 Claws, which hold the underwater rocket 1.1 in the canister 2.1, are rotatable about the axes of rotation D.1 and D.2 and are connected to the connection 11 in an articulated manner 10 The plunger, which can move linearly and is connected to the claws 9.1, 9.2 via the articulated connection 11, is surrounded by the closing unit 12 and penetrates the rear membrane 8.1 11 articulated connection between the claws 9.1, 9.2 and the ram 10, converts a linear movement of the plunger 10 into a rotary movement of the two claws 9.1, 9.2 12 Locking unit for chamber Km.1 of the locking device, fixed to the pusher 10, has a conical front part 13 Sealing plug at the rear end of the engine Tw.1 of the underwater rocket 1.1 is ejected through the rear membrane 8.1 and out of the canister 2.1 after the engine Tw.1 has been ignited 14 Flap, which closes outlet A of channel Ka, is opened by ejected propellant Tr.1 or by an actuator 16 Position sensor in the form of a contact switch, detects the event that the locking device is in the release position A Outlet of the duct Ka, embedded in the vehicle shell Fh, closed by the flap 14 AR Ejection direction in which the underwater missile 1.1 is ejected from the first ramp 3.1 ART Outlet direction in which the propellant Tr.1 is discharged from the channel Ka through the outlet A D.1, D.2 Axis of rotation about which the claw 9.1, 9.2 can be rotated fh Vehicle hull of the watercraft, in which the starting device with the ramps 2.1, 2.2 is embedded ca Channel leading to the outside of the chamber Km, surrounded by the wall 5 and closed by the flap 14 km common chamber behind the two ramps 3.1 and 3.2, receives ejected propellant Tr.1, surrounded by the wall 4 and connected to the channel Ka Km.1 Chamber of the locking device surrounds the plunger 10, closed by the closing unit 12 la 1 Longitudinal axis of the first ramp 3.1 coincides with the longitudinal axis of the first canister 2.1 La.2 Longitudinal axis of the second ramp 3.2 coincides with the longitudinal axis of the second canister 2.2 La.K Longitudinal axis of the canal Ka Tr.1 Propellant, which is ejected from the engine Tw.1 of the first underwater rocket 1.1 at the start Tw.1 Engine of the first underwater rocket 1.1 emits the propellant Tr.1 WHERE water surface

Claims (15)

1. A launching device for launching a first underwater running body (1.1) from a platform, in particular from a watercraft,

   wherein the first underwater running body (1.1) comprises a first propulsion unit (Tw.1), which is designed to emit a propellant (Tr.1),

   wherein the launching device comprises a first ramp (3.1), which extends along a first longitudinal ramp axis (La.1),

   wherein the first ramp (3.1) is designed (1.1)

   - to enclose and hold the first underwater running body (1.1) under water and

   - to guide it during its launch, dependent on the orientation of the first longitudinal ramp axis (La.1),

   wherein

   the launching device comprises a propellant deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka),

   wherein the launching device is designed to activate the propulsion unit (Tw.1), or to allow its activation, while the first underwater running body (1.1) is enclosed and held in the first ramp (3.1) under water,

   wherein the first ramp (3.1) is designed to direct propellant (Tr.1) emitted by the first propulsion unit (Tw.1) to the propulsion deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka), and

   wherein the propulsion deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka) is designed to divert emitted propellant (Tr.1) into an outlet direction (AR.T), which is directed perpendicularly or obliquely away from the platform; and

   the launching device is designed in such a way that water can penetrate into the or each ramp (3.1, 3.2);

   characterized in that

   the launching device comprises a first ramp flap (6.1), which in a closed state closes the first ramp (3.1) with respect to surrounding water,

   wherein the launching device is designed to open the first ramp flap (6.1) and thereby allow water to flow into the first ramp (3.1)

   before the launching device activates the propulsion unit (Tw.1) of the first underwater running body (1.1).
2. The launching device as claimed in claim 1,
   characterized in that
   the propellant deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka) is arranged in such a way that

   - the outlet direction (AR.T) of the propellant (Tr.1) is parallel to the first longitudinal ramp axis (La.1) and

   - the deflected propellant (Tr.1) leaves the propellant deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka) at a distance from the first longitudinal ramp axis (La.1).
3. The launching device as claimed in one of the preceding claims,
   characterized in that

   the propellant deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka) is arranged in such a way that

   the outlet direction (AR.T) of the propellant (Tr.1) forms an acute angle (α) with the first longitudinal ramp axis (La.1) and

   the propellant deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka) deflects emitted propellant (Tr.1) by an obtuse angle (180° - α).
4. The launching device as claimed in one of the preceding claims,
   characterized in that

   the launching device comprises a second ramp (3.2),

   wherein the second ramp (3.2) is designed to enclose, hold and guide a second underwater running body (1.2) under water.
5. The launching device as claimed in claim 4,
   characterized in that

   the launching device is designed in such a way that

   both the first ramp (3.1) and the second ramp (3.2) direct a propellant (Tr.1), which is emitted by the respective underwater running body (1.1, 1.2), into the propellant deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka).
6. The launching device as claimed in one of the preceding claims,
   characterized in that

   the launching device comprises a locking device (9.1, 9.2, 10, 11, 12), which can be transferred from a locking state into a release state,

   wherein the locking device (9.1, 9.2, 10, 11, 12) in the locking state prevents a movement of the first underwater running body (1.1) in the first ramp (3.1) in relation to the first ramp (3.1),

   wherein the locking device (9.1, 9.2, 10, 11, 12) in the release state allows the first underwater running body (1.1) to leave the first ramp (3.1) and

   wherein the launching device is designed to prevent the activation of the first propulsion unit (Tw.1) as long as the locking device (9.1, 9.2, 10, 11, 12) is in the locking state.

   particularly wherein

   the launching device comprises a position sensor (16),

   which is designed to detect the event that the locking device (9.1, 9.2, 10, 11, 12) is in the release state,

   wherein the launching device is designed to activate the first propulsion unit (Tw.1), or allow its activation, as a reaction to the detection that the locking device (9.1, 9.2, 10, 11, 12) is in the release state.
7. The launching device as claimed in one of the preceding claims,
   characterized in that

   a deflection unit flap (14) separates the propellant deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka) from the surrounding fluid,

   wherein the deflection unit flap (14) is mounted in such a way that emitted propellant (Tr.1) is able to open the deflection unit flap (14) or make it burst.
8. The launching device as claimed in claim 7,
   characterized in that

   the deflection unit flap (14) is designed in such a way

   that the emitted propellant (Tr.1) only opens the deflection unit flap (14) or makes it burst

   whenever the pressure exerted on the deflection unit flap (14) exceeds a predetermined limit.
9. The launching device as claimed in one of the preceding claims,
   characterized in that

   the launching device is arranged on board a watercraft and

   in a standard floating position of the watercraft, the propellant deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka) is arranged in such a way

   that the entire path of movement, or at least the last section (Ka) of the path of movement, of emitted propellant (Tr.1) in the propellant deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka) is horizontal or ascending.
10. The launching device as claimed in one of the preceding claims,
    characterized in that

    the launching device has a ramp actuating element,

    which is designed to pivot the first ramp (3.1).
11. A watercraft with a launching device as claimed in one of the preceding claims.
12. The watercraft as claimed in claim 11,
    characterized in that

    the watercraft comprises at least one weapon tube,

    wherein the launching device is fitted or can be fitted in the weapon tube.
13. The watercraft as claimed in claim 11 or claim 12,
    characterized in that

    the watercraft is an underwater vehicle with a pressure hull,

    wherein the pressure hull encloses an interior region in a pressuretight manner and

    wherein the launching device is arranged outside the interior region.
14. The watercraft as claimed in one of claims 11 to 13,
    characterized in that

    the watercraft is a surface vessel,

    wherein the launching device is arranged in such a way that, in the normal floating position of the surface vessel, it is located below the surface of the water (WO).
15. A method for launching a first underwater running body (1.1) from a platform, in particular from a watercraft,

    wherein the first underwater running body (1.1) comprises a propulsion unit (Tw.1),

    wherein a launching device with a first ramp (3.1), which extends along a first longitudinal ramp axis (La.1), is used for launching, and

    wherein the method comprises the steps that

    - the first ramp (3.1) encloses and holds the first underwater running body (1.1) under water,

    - the propulsion unit (Tw.1) is activated,

    - the activated propulsion unit (Tw.1) emits a propellant (Tr.1) and

    - the first ramp (3.1) guides the first underwater running body (1.1) during its launch, dependent on the orientation of the first longitudinal ramp axis (La.1),

    wherein

    the launching device comprises a propellant deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka),

    wherein the step of activating the propulsion unit (Tw.1) is carried out while the first underwater running body (1.1) is enclosed in the first ramp (3.1) and held by it under water, and

    wherein the method comprises the further steps that

    - the first ramp (3.1) directs propellant (Tr.1) emitted by the propulsion unit (Tw.1) to the propellant deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka) and

    - the propellant deflection unit (4, 5, Km, Ka) diverts emitted propellant (Tr.1) into an outlet direction (AR.T), which is directed perpendicularly or obliquely away from the platform

    - the launching device is closed with respect to surrounding water by a first ramp flap (6.1);

    - wherein the first ramp flap (6.1) is opened to allow water to flow into the first ramp (3.1) before the launching device activates the propulsion unit (Tw.1) of the first underwater running body (1.1).

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