Structural and functional characteristics of the lifting mechanism in universal rocket transportation launching device

The focus on the research of structural parameters and determination of functional characteristics of the rocket lifting mechanism--the important subsystem of universal rocket transportation launching device is made in the paper. The latter device is intended for the transportation of rocket-type targets and their effective launching during field training process of anti-aircraft missile system crews. The device is developed by integrating transportation subsystem in the form of single axle (light weight) trailer and launching subsystem--a six bar hydraulically actuated linkage. The launching device able to ensure necessary launching angles (in the range 30°-70°), fast transition from the transportation to the launching mode and together meeting constraints set by motion stability requirements at transportation mode was developed. By performing structural analysis a set of links' geometrical parameters enabling the launching angle range and having minimized vertical dimensions at transportation mode were selected. By kinematical analysis of the linkage, input parameters of actuating hydraulic cylinder ensuring constant velocity and smooth motion of the rocket guides were determined. The performed field tests of air target launching proved efficient operation of the developed rocket transportation launching device.