Polytoroidal Tunneling Thruster for Specialized Navy Applications. A Development Study.
Abstract
Practical applications of vermiculating or worm-like motion were investigated. The bladder technology required in studying the practical applications was investigated by conducting an extensive industrial search which revealed that the required bladders have to be custom made. Based upon the vermiculating motion concept a scale model of a 24-inch diameter tunneling thruster was designed and built using bicycle inner tubes as braking toroids; the thrust and locomotion to the system was provided by four double-acting pneumatic cylinders. The thruster operated satisfactorily when tested inside a concrete pipe positioned vertically. A preliminary design of a tunneling thruster capable of operating in a 8-foot-diameter tunnel is given. Other potential applications of the concept are discussed. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1974
- Accession Number
- AD0774468
Entities
People
- D. Pal
- H. A. Gaberson
Organizations
- Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center