Lightweight blast resistant container

Abstract

This invention is a novel lightweight blast resistant container. It consists of containers made of a blast resistant fiber reinforced polymer resin matrix composite. The invention employs a novel construction configuration whereby the container is created by the appropriate nesting of composite parts to create a cube, box or multi-faceted geometry. As a result of the nesting, the box like geometry exhibits characteristics that cause the geometry to behave more like a sphere than a box when subjected to internal blast pressures. Such an approach provides an optimized minimum weight solution by fully utilizing the entire material volume, whereby ultimate tensile strength can be simultaneously developed everywhere in the container.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] The invention relates to a lightweight multi-sides container capable of resisting an explosive detonation dut to bombs or other explosive devices without rupture. The invention applies to any situation where an explosive device is detonated in a container. The invention is particularly applicable to cargo containers, such as Unit Load Devices used on aircraft, or shipping containers used on ships or trucks. [0002] One possible scenario for terrorist activity is to place explosive devices in cargo or luggage. Even a small explosive device is adequate to destroy an aircraft. Current practice on wide body aircraft is to put all cargo and luggage into containers called Unit Load Devices (ULD's). Current ULD's are constructed of lightweight aluminum, which provides no protection against explosives. Although some ULD's have been proposed which offer increased blast protection, all proposals to date are too heavy. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention is a blast resistant container made of a special composite material that can withstand explosive blasts without collapsing or causing harm to people or property. The composite material is reinforced with fiber and resin, which exhibits high strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion and chemical agents. The container can be used for various applications such as detonating explosives safely, protecting against accidental blasts, and shipping and storing explosive materials. The construction method involves forming three nested parts and using a fiber reinforced resin composite material that reduces high stresses at the corners of a rigid box. The container can also have a non-circular doorway opening and a guillotine or sliding door for added safety during transit."

Problems solved by technology

Current ULD's are constructed of lightweight aluminum, which provides no protection against explosives.

Although some ULD's have been proposed which offer increased blast protection, all proposals to date are too heavy.

Similarly other containers such as those used on seagoing ships are vulnerable to explosive detonations.

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