Sonobuoy Dispenser System

DESCRIPTION

The SBDS is a lightweight sonobuoys dispenser particularly suited for helicopter installation and is composed by a dispenser unit (SBDU) in the form of a vertical type, carousel based capable of carrying three types of NATO Sonobuoys (size A, G, F) that can be released by gravity either from a SMS command or a dedicated Control Panel or by an operator manual actuation.
The carousel structure, in three different version, stores up to 6, 8 or 10 Buoys maximum, in any pre-determinated combination. The Buoys are retained vertically in the Carousel by a lacth linkage system on the bottom and by a retaining adjustable cap on the top.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

	Dimmension (mm)	Weight (Kg)
SDU/10	Ø 650 x 1300	< 30 KG.
CP	180 x 154 x 180	< 3 KG.

The carousel is rotated either CW or CCW by a dedicated mechanism as the selected Sonobuoy Launch Tube is positioned above a Launching Aperture. A manual rotating device is also provided to allow the carousel rotating in case of motor failure or electrical power missing.
Monitoring switches control the position of the carousel and identify the storing tube positioned over the dispensing hole. This aperture lines up with a dedicated hole in the HC Floor enabling the Sonobuoy to drop by gravity when the release is actuated.
The release device can be opened automatically by a SMS/CP command or manually by the Manual Release Pull Ring.

The SBDU is re-loadable in flight and rotates from one tube to the next one between adjacent buoys stations in a time not exceeding 2 seconds.
The CP, when available, displays the types of sonobuoys stored and sector engaged on the helicopter dispensing hole, operates the CW or CCW rotation command, releases the sonobuoys from the selected launch tube by means of a protected switch and displays the SBDS status (LCKD, FAIL, ON). For safety, a proper switch must enable the drive and Release commands.

A depot level STTE is provided for Maintenance and Troubleshooting Purpose.

Specification