how torpedo curved path works

[Marco1971]

Hi guys,

Don't know if this is the right place to post, but wonder about the following:

Torpedo's launched follow a curved path the first part to get into the right calculated direction. How does that work technically? does the torpedo have a timer attached to its rudder or so? it leaves the tube.. then its path curves.. then it straigthens to head for the target...
I really wonder how it was done technically. it has to be quite precise...

Greets / Marco

[Sledgehammer427]

As far as I know the Target Data Computer loads settings into the torpedo, namely depth, (Which I think Is run by a pressure sensor, like a barometer) speed (on some steam powered torps, regulated probably by a valve setting) and the gyro angle, basically the torpedo leaves the tube, has a straight run of...lets say 50 meters, then the setting for the gyro pops in and turns the torpedo. I'm sure it is like a one time use servo

I wish I could be of more help but I'm sure soemone will come along who has a lot of knowledge on the subject :up:

[Marco1971]

Sledgehammer, your explanation makes it more clear already. Especially your remark that the torp first follows a straight path for 50 meters or so, and then starts the curving manouevre for an exact amount of time, before its rudder switches back to neutral for the remaining distance to target. It would be interesting to examine the interior of a torp of that time to see how it's engineered. Thanks for your explanation :salute:

[Fish40]

Lots of technical info here: http://search.yahoo.com/r/_ylt=A0oG7hER.KtOuywAYwlXNyoA;_ylu=X3oDMTE0Y2lpMGU 3BHNlYwNzcgRwb3MDOARjb2xvA2FjMgR2dGlkA1FJMDA3XzE4M w--/SIG=11t0e51pk/EXP=1319921809/**http%3a//www.hnsa.org/doc/torpedo/index.htm

[Sledgehammer427]

It would be interesting to examine the interior of a torp of that time to see how it's engineered. Thanks for your explanation :salute:

Depending on how soon you would like the information, I need to make a run to Groton, Connecticut, which is about 45 minutes away, and I can get you and everyone else pictures of some of the inner workings of torpedoes around the WWI, WWII timeframe. I'm a little overdue for a visit.

[Marco1971]

That's amazing Sledgehammer, but isn't that too much effort? I like this information just for personal interests, so no hurry at all is necessary. Sure i'd love to see pics as you mentioned. Wish i had such a museum nearby. We do have a navy museum with torps on display, but not the interior.
Anyway, if you ever visit that museum i'd be happy if you could make some pics, but don't do that especially for me :DL

[Marco1971]

Fish... interesting stuff you got me there. Thanks a lot!