Sonobuoy launcher system

Abstract

Abstract A pneumatic restraint and ejection system for a multiple sonobuoy launcheraving a single plenum communicating through separate clack valves to the inboard ends of a plurality of launcher tubes and through separate girdle valves to inflatable girdles about the launch tubes. After sonobuoys are inserted into the launch tubes, the plenum is charged with compressed air with the clack and girdle valves positioned to impart an ejection force on the backs and a longitudinal restraining force on sides of the sonobuoys. A sonobuoy is ejected by actuating the girdle valve to shut off the plenum air to the girdle and to exhaust the air in the girdle. As the sonobuoy leaves its launch tube, the air behind the sonobuoy expands causing a sudden differential pressure between the plenum and the tube to cause the clack valve to close and prevent loss of plenum pressure through the empty launch tube. In one embodiment, the launch tube includes a solonoid actuated latch at the discharge end which secures the sonobuoy therein. Actuation of the solonoid simultaneously releases the latch and operates the girdle valve. In another embodiment, three sonobuoys are loaded in tandem within a single launch tube. Three pressure chambers and girdles are separately actuated by solonoid-actuated girdle valves for sequential ejection of the sonobuoys.

Inventors

• 👤 Leo Dragonuk

Bibliographic Details