Mechanical trigger for self destruction of fragile structure and closed vessel, and trigger method

Abstract

To provide a system and a structure which are useful in various applications such as waste reduction, supply chain completeness maintenance, recycle of a self-sinking buoy or waste and so on, can be physically self-destructed by a controlled triggerable method.SOLUTION: A device 100 includes a structure 102 comprising a prescribed breakable region, and a mechanical actuator 110 which is located in or in vicinity of the prescribed breakable region. The mechanical actuator 110 comprises an impact member coupled to a spring constituent, and a restraint member operatively coupled to the spring constituent. A trigger source 112 is operatively coupled to a power source 114. The trigger source 112 is so configured as to release or break the restraint member so that in response to reception of electric current from the power source 114, the spring constituent compulsorily moves the impact member so as to bring the same into contact with the prescribed breakable region, and can break the prescribed breakable region.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT) This invention is based upon work supported by DARPA under Contract No. DARPA-OOT-DUST-Float-Rsrc. The Government has certain rights in this invention.

[0002] FIELD OF THEINVENTION SUMMARY The present disclosure relates generally to mechanical triggers and triggering methods for self-destructing frangible structures and enclosures, and related systems. [Background technology]

[0003] Systems and structures that can physically self-destruct in a controlled, triggerable manner are useful in a variety of applications, such as waste reduction, maintaining supply chain integrity, scuttling buoys, and / or waste recycling. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Some embodiments relate to an apparatus comprising a structure comprising a predetermined breakable area and a mechanical actuator disposed at or proximate to the predetermined breakable area. The mechanical actuator comprises an impact member coupled to a spring arrangement and a restraining member operably coupled to the spring arrangement. The trigger source is operably coupled to a power source. The trigger source is configured in response to receiving an electric current from the power source to release or break the restraining member such that the spring arrangement can force the impact member to move into contact with the predetermined breakable area and break the predetermined breakable area.

[0005] Some embodiments are directed to an apparatus including a container with a predetermined breakable area. A mechanical actuator is disposed within the container and is located at or proximate to the predetermined breakable area. The mechanical actuator includes an impact member coupled to a spring arrangement and a restraining member operably coupled to the spring arrangement. A heat source is operably coupled to a power source and in thermal contact with the restraining member. The heat source is configured such that in response to receiving an electric current from the power source, the spring arrangement urges the impact member to move into contact with the predetermined breakable area, breaking the predetermined breakable area and thereby breaking the restraining member such that liquids, gases, or solids can be facilitated to enter or be expelled from the container.

[0006] Some embodiments are directed to an apparatus comprising a container configured to float in a liquid. The container comprises a first predefined breakable area at a first location of the container and a second predefined breakable area at a second location of the container spaced from the first location. A first mechanical actuator is disposed within the container and is located at or proximate to the first predefined breakable area. A second mechanical actuator is disposed within the container and is located at or proximate to the second predefined breakable area. Each of the first and second mechanical actuators comprises an impact member coupled to a spring arrangement, a restraining member operably coupled to the spring arrangement, and a trigger source configured to contact or advance into contact with the restraining member. A power supply arrangement is operably coupled to the trigger source of each of the first and second mechanical actuators. The trigger source of each of the first and second mechanical actuators is configured, in response to receiving an electric current from the power supply arrangement, to cause the spring arrangement to force the impact member into contact with the respective first and second predetermined breakable areas to break the respective first and second predetermined breakable areas, thereby releasing or breaking the restraining member to facilitate the evacuation of air from the container through one of the broken first and second predetermined breakable areas and the ingress of liquid into the container through the other of the broken first and second predetermined breakable areas. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] Throughout this specification, reference is made to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an apparatus comprising a structure including a predetermined frangible region, according to various embodiments. [Diagram 2] 1 illustrates a mechanical actuator assembly suitable for incorporation into any of the structures disclosed herein, according to various embodiments. [Diagram 3] 1 illustrates an apparatus comprising a structure including a number of pre-defined frangible regions and a corresponding number of mechanical actuator assemblies, according to various embodiments. [Figure 4A] 11 illustrates different configurations of the predetermined frangible region of the structures described herein, according to various embodiments. [Figure 4B] 11 illustrates different configurations of the predetermined frangible region of the structures described herein, according to various embodiments. [Figure 4C] 11 illustrates different configurations of the predetermined frangible region of the structures described herein, according to various embodiments. [Figure 4D] 11 illustrates different configurations of the predetermined frangible region of the structures described herein, according to various embodiments. [Figure 4E] 11 illustrates different configurations of the predetermined frangible region of the structures described herein, according to various embodiments. [Diagram 5] 1 illustrates an apparatus comprising a structure including a predetermined frangible region and a mechanical actuator assembly disposed at or proximate to the predetermined frangible region, according to various embodiments. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates an apparatus comprising a structure including first and second predetermined breakable areas and associated first and second mechanical actuator assemblies disposed at or proximate to the respective predetermined breakable areas, according to various embodiments. [Figure 7A] 1 illustrates a mechanical actuator assembly according to various embodiments. [Figure 7B] 1 illustrates a mechanical actuator assembly according to various embodiments. [Figure 7C] 1 illustrates a mechanical actuator assembly according to various embodiments. [Figure 7D] 1 illustrates a mechanical actuator assembly according to various embodiments. [Figure 7E] 1 illustrates a mechanical actuator assembly according to various embodiments. [Figure 7F] 1 illustrates a mechanical actuator assembly according to various embodiments. [Figure 7G] 1 illustrates a mechanical actuator assembly according to various embodiments. [Figure 7H]1 illustrates an apparatus for forming a container or vessel incorporating one, two, or three or more mechanical actuator assemblies, according to various embodiments. [Figure 7I] 1 illustrates an apparatus for forming a container or vessel incorporating one, two, or three or more mechanical actuator assemblies, according to various embodiments. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a mechanical actuator assembly according to various embodiments. [Figure 9A] 13A-13C illustrate various embodiments for wrapping a pre-looped string around a resistor heater of a mechanical actuator assembly. [Figure 9B] 13A-13C illustrate various embodiments for wrapping a pre-looped string around a resistor heater of a mechanical actuator assembly. [Figure 9C] 13A-13C illustrate various embodiments for wrapping a pre-looped string around a resistor heater of a mechanical actuator assembly.

[0008] The drawings are not necessarily to scale. Like numbers used in the drawings refer to like components. However, it will be understood that the use of a number to refer to a component in a given drawing is not intended to limit the component in another drawing labeled with the same number. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] The embodiments disclosed herein relate to an approach for breaking structures into smaller pieces in a controlled and triggerable manner. Fragile structures made of glass, especially when strengthened by, for example, chemical ion exchange or thermal quenching, can be structurally very strong and become increasingly difficult to break with increasing thickness. Many applications require the robustness or rigidity of, for example, thicker glass. As discussed below, devices capable of reliably and controllably fracturing fragile structures, especially thick fragile structures, include mechanical devices actuable by a trigger source operably coupled to a power source. The mechanical actuator assemblies disclosed herein can be physically small and lightweight, yet provide mechanical and operational robustness that avoids unintentional triggering.

[0010] Many enclosed systems, such as sensor buoys and air vessels, require controlled scuttling so that they are sunk after their useful life and removed from their normal operating environment. Many of these systems utilize wall structures made of rigid shells such as metal, glass, wood, cardboard, or plastic that must be breached to allow water or air to flow into or out of their enclosed chambers in order to sink the buoy or vessel. A significant challenge is to provide a mechanism for scuttling such vessels in a simple, low-cost, safe and reliable manner.

[0011] An embodiment of the present disclosure is directed to a mechanical actuator assembly configured to damage or destroy a weakened area of ​​a fragile or rigid structure. The mechanical actuator assembly may be configured to damage or destroy a weakened portion of a fragile container or a container configured to float. The mechanical actuator assembly may also be configured to damage or destroy a stand-alone fragile structure that is not configured to float. When actuated by a trigger source operably coupled to a power source, the mechanical actuator assembly forces an impact member to move into contact with the weakened portion of the structure, causing the weakened portion to break, break, or shatter. For example, a buoy or other floatable vessel may include a tempered glass window with a mechanical actuator assembly mounted thereon. When actuated, the mechanical actuator assembly breaks the tempered glass window into small pieces due to residual internal stresses induced by the tempering. The small glass remnants create an unobstructed opening in the wall of the buoy or vessel that allows for rapid submersion of the buoy or vessel.

[0012] In various embodiments, the mechanical actuator assembly can be configured to break a fragile structure (e.g., a sheet of fragile material) that is greater than about 0.5 mm thick. For example, the thickness of the fragile structure can range from about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm (e.g., about 0.5 mm, about 1 mm, about 2 mm), or even greater than 2 mm. In some embodiments, the fragile portion of the structure can be broken into multiple small pieces, e.g., pieces having length, width, and height dimensions greater than about 10 mm, greater than about 900 μm, less than about 500 μm, or even less than about 100 μm.

[0013] Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a mechanical actuator assembly configured to break a predetermined breakable area of ​​a structure to which the mechanical actuator assembly is attached. The mechanical actuator assembly includes a spring arrangement and an impact member coupled to the spring arrangement. The mechanical actuator assembly also includes a restraining member operably coupled to the spring arrangement. The trigger source is operably coupled to a power source. In some embodiments, the trigger source includes a heat source operably coupled to the power source and in thermal contact with the restraining member. In other embodiments, the trigger source includes an electromagnetic solenoid configured to actuate a component (e.g., a sharp object or a cutting member) that breaks the restraining member. In further embodiments, the trigger source includes an electrostatic device configured to apply a voltage to a sharp electrode to create a large electric field.

[0014] The trigger source is configured to release or break the restraining member in response to receiving an electric current from the power source such that the spring arrangement can force the impact member to move into contact with the predetermined breakable region and break the predetermined breakable region. The mechanical actuator assembly can be actuated in response to an activation signal generated locally (e.g., via a timer or sensor signal) or remotely (e.g., via a remotely generated RF signal). Breaking the predetermined breakable region of the structure by the mechanical actuator assembly can facilitate the ingress or ejection of liquids, gases, or solids into and / or out of the structure.

[0015] Some embodiments are directed to a mechanical actuator assembly that includes a spring steel member secured to a base. The spring steel member is cocked away from the base with a string having a portion wrapped around a heating element. When the heating element is electrically activated, the string breaks, releasing the mechanical energy of the spring steel member, which then presses an attached sharp point against a breakable component on the wall of a vessel, container, or other structure. The broken area allows water or air to enter or exit the vessel, container, or structure.

[0016] Another embodiment is directed to a mechanical actuator assembly that includes a torsion spring fixed to a base. The torsion spring is cocked toward the base with a string having a portion wrapped around a heating element. When the heating element is electrically activated, the string breaks, releasing the mechanical energy of the torsion spring, which then presses an attached sharp tip against a breakable component on the wall of a vessel, container, or other structure. The broken area allows water or air to enter or exit the vessel, container, or structure.

[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates an apparatus 100 including a structure 102 including a predetermined breakable region 104, according to various embodiments. The predetermined breakable region 104 defines a weakened portion or portions of the structure 102. In some implementations, the predetermined breakable region 104 defines only a portion, but not the entirety, of the structure 102. For example, the predetermined breakable region 104 can be realized as a weakened region (e.g., a window region) integrated into a rigid (e.g., non-weakened) wall of the structure 102. In other implementations, the predetermined breakable region 104 defines substantially all (e.g., >90%) or the entirety of the structure 102 (see, e.g., dashed line extending the predetermined breakable region 104 around the structure 102). For example, the structure 102 can be realized as a vessel or container defined or contained by a weak wall or walls and a cover structure (e.g., a glass vessel or buoy) configured to float (e.g., a so-called drifter).

[0018] The mechanical actuator assembly 101 is disposed within the structure 102. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the mechanical actuator assembly 101 includes a mechanical actuator 110, a trigger source 112, and a power source 114. The mechanical actuator 110 is disposed at or proximate to the predetermined breakable region 104 of the structure 102 and is operably coupled to the trigger source 112. The trigger source 112 is operably coupled to the power source 114 (e.g., a conventional battery or other power source as discussed below). In the case of a rechargeable battery, the structure 102 may include or support a solar cell or solar array configured to charge the rechargeable battery. In response to receiving a current from the power source 114, the trigger source actuates the mechanical actuator 110, which forces the predetermined breakable region 104 into contact and breaks.

[0019] 2 illustrates a mechanical actuator assembly 201 suitable for incorporation into any of the structures disclosed herein, according to various embodiments. The mechanical actuator assembly 201 includes a mechanical actuator 210 that may be disposed at or proximate to the predetermined breakable region 104 of the structure 102 shown in FIG. 1. The mechanical actuator 210 includes a spring arrangement 212 and an impact member 214 coupled or mounted to the spring arrangement 212. A restraining member 216 is operably coupled to the spring arrangement 212. The restraining member 216 is configured to maintain the spring arrangement 212 and the impact member 214 in a pre-actuation position prior to actuation of the mechanical actuator 210. The spring arrangement 212 comprises a spring element having sufficient spring force to maintain the impact member 214 in a pre-actuation position without releasing or breaking the restraining member 216.

[0020] The mechanical actuator assembly 201 also includes a trigger source 218 operably coupled to a power source 219. The trigger source 218 is configured to contact or move into contact with the restraining member 216. For example, the trigger source 218 can be a heat source (e.g., a resistor) in thermal contact (e.g., which can also include physical contact) with the restraining member 216. In another example, the trigger source 218 can be an electromagnetic solenoid or an electrostatic device configured to actuate a disconnect component that releases the restraining member 216.

[0021] In response to receiving an electrical current from the power source 219, the trigger source 218 releases or breaks the restraining member 216 such that the spring element of the spring arrangement 212 can force the impact member 214 to move into contact with the pre-defined breakable region 104 of the structure 102 and break the pre-defined breakable region 104. In some embodiments, the trigger source 218 is a heat source that breaks the restraining member. In other embodiments, the trigger source is an electromagnetic solenoid that mechanically releases the restraining member 216.

[0022] As discussed above, the predetermined frangible region 104 can define one or more weakened portions of a portion or the entire structure 102. For example, the predetermined frangible region 104 can include less than a majority (e.g., <50%, such as <40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, or 5%), more than a majority (e.g., >50%), nearly the entire (e.g., >80%, such as >85%, 90%, 95%, or 98%), or the entire (100%) of the structure 102. The spring element of the spring arrangement 212 has a spring force sufficient to cause the impact member 214 to frangible the predetermined frangible region in response to the release or breaking of the restraining member 216.

[0023] According to various embodiments, the spring arrangement 212 may include at least one of a torsion spring and a spring steel member. It is understood that other types of spring mechanisms and objects (e.g., leaf springs, cantilever springs, plastic plates) that may be configured to generate a spring force are contemplated. The impact member 214 includes a mechanical member configured to provide a large force or impact applied for a short period of time to the predetermined breakable area 104. According to various embodiments, the impact member 214 may include at least one of a metal or other rigid member with a sharp, tapered, reinforced, or hardened end (e.g., a screw, nail, pin, spike, punch, tack, peg, hammer-like member). According to various embodiments, the trigger source 218 may include at least one of an electrical resistance heater (e.g., a resistor such as a metal foil resistor or a carbon film resistor), an electric match, an arc writer, a plasma writer, and a semiconductor laser. According to various embodiments, the power source 219 can include at least one of a battery, a DC power source, an AC power source, a supercapacitor, and an electromagnetically coupled charge power source.

[0024] The mechanical actuator assembly 201 may include a trigger mechanism 220 comprising a trigger signal circuit 222 operably coupled to a power source 219. In some embodiments, the trigger mechanism 220 includes a receiver 226, such as an RF receiver (e.g., a satellite receiver) configured to receive a trigger signal generated from a remote signal source 230 (e.g., a communication satellite). The trigger signal circuit 222 may alternatively or additionally include a timer and / or one or more sensors configured to generate a trigger signal. For example, the trigger signal may be generated by the trigger signal circuit 222 in response to expiration of a predetermined period of time (e.g., days, weeks, months, years) or in response to a sensor signal generated by one or more on-board sensors (e.g., a signal generated by an on-board GPS sensor in response to detecting a position of the floating structure 102 outside a predefined geofence area).

[0025] In some implementations, the trigger signal circuit 222 may include a switch that can be remotely controlled, allowing the destruction of the structure 102 to be triggered from a location remote from the structure 102 (e.g., remote signal source 230). In such an embodiment, the wireless signal actuates the switch to connect the power source 219 to the trigger source 218. In some implementations, the switch includes a MOSFET transistor that can be turned on or off by applying a bias voltage to the gate of the transistor. In another implementation, the switch may be a silicon controlled rectifier that can be turned on by applying a small current to one of its terminals. In a further implementation, the switch may be a mechanical relay switch.

[0026] FIG. 3 illustrates an apparatus 300 including a structure 302 including a number of predetermined breakable regions and a corresponding number of mechanical actuator assemblies, according to various embodiments. In the representative example illustrated in FIG. 3, the structure 302 includes a first predetermined breakable region 304a located on a first surface 302a of the structure 302 and a second predetermined breakable region 304b located on a second surface 302b of the structure 302. Although shown as being disposed on opposing surfaces of the structure 302, the first and second predetermined breakable regions 304a, 304b can be disposed on the same surface or adjacent surfaces of the structure 302. Although FIG. 3 illustrates two different predetermined breakable regions 304a, 304b and two different mechanical actuator assemblies 301a, 301b, it is understood that the structure 302 can include any number of predetermined breakable regions and mechanical actuator assemblies. It is also understood that two or more different mechanical actuator assemblies may be positioned at or adjacent to the same predefined breakable area of ​​structure 302 (e.g., to provide redundancy for increased performance robustness).

[0027] If the structure 302 is configured as a vessel or container for floating, for example, the first predetermined breakable region 304a can be located above a predefined water line of the floatable structure 302 and the second predetermined breakable region 304b can be located below the predefined water line of the floatable structure 302. In such implementations, breaking of the first predetermined breakable region 304a provides for the evacuation of air, while breaking of the second predetermined breakable region 304b provides for the ingress of water or other liquid into the structure 302, causing the structure 302 to sink.

[0028] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the first and second mechanical actuator assemblies 301a, 301b are disposed within a structure 302. The first mechanical actuator assembly 301a includes a mechanical actuator 310a, a trigger source 312a, and a power source 318a. The second mechanical actuator assembly 301b includes a mechanical actuator 310b, a trigger source 312b, and a power source 318b. In some embodiments, the power sources 318a, 318b of the first and second mechanical actuator assemblies 301a, 301b are independent power sources (e.g., different batteries). In other embodiments, the power sources 318a, 318b of the first and second mechanical actuator assemblies 301a, 301b are implemented as a common (e.g., single) power supply component 318. In the case of a common or single power source, the trigger sources 312a and 312b can be connected in parallel. The leads of the trigger sources 312a and 312b can be crimped together onto a single header to facilitate simultaneous actuation, or electrical distribution can be implemented at the circuit board level with separate headers for each source (see PCBs 720, 720a in Figures 7A-7G). Alternatively, the trigger sources 312a and 312b can be connected in series, with a common current (instead of a voltage) actuating each trigger source 312a, 312b. The first and second mechanical actuator assemblies 301a, 301b are preferably constructed and function in the manner described with respect to Figures 1 and 2.

[0029] The structure 302 may also include an electronics / sensor package 330 that may operate independently of the first and second mechanical actuator assemblies 301a, 301b. The electronics / sensor package 330 may include a wide variety of electronic devices and / or sensors. For example, the electronics / sensor package 330 may include one or more of a sea surface temperature sensor (SST), a high resolution sea surface temperature sensor (HRSST), a barometric pressure sensor, a drogue presence sensor, a probe sensor, a conductivity / temperature data logger, a GPS sensor, a wireless RF transmitter or transceiver, a satellite communication transmitter or transceiver (e.g., an IRIDIUM satellite communication device for transmitting sensor data and other data), a salinity sensor, a fluorescence sensor, a dissolved oxygen sensor, a pCO2 sensor, and a low radar echo sensor to reduce the risk of collision or interference with a surface craft.

[0030] 4A-4E show different configurations of the predetermined frangible region of the structures described herein, according to various embodiments. FIG. 4A shows a portion of a structure 402a including a predetermined frangible region 404a that includes a void 403a (e.g., a window or cutout in a rigid wall of the structure) within the structure 402a. A sheet of frangible material 405a is disposed above and extends across the void 403a. The sheet of frangible material 405a includes a first surface 412a and an opposing second surface 410a. The sheet of frangible material 405a is held in place above the void 403a by a sealing tape 406a disposed between the perimeter of the first surface 412a of the sheet of frangible material 405a and the perimeter of the structure 402a that defines the area of ​​the void 403a.

[0031] 4B shows a portion of a structure 402b including a predetermined frangible area 404b that includes a void 403b within the structure 402b. A sheet of frangible material 405b is disposed above and extends across the void 403b. The sheet of frangible material 405b includes a first surface 412b and an opposing second surface 410b. The sheet of frangible material 405b is held in place above the void 403b by a sealing adhesive 408b disposed between the perimeter of the first surface 412b of the sheet of frangible material 405b and the perimeter of the structure 402b that defines the area of ​​the void 403b.

[0032] 4C shows a portion of a structure 402c including a predetermined breakable area 404c that includes a void 403c in the structure 402c. A sheet of frangible material 405c is disposed above and extends across the void 403c. The sheet of frangible material 405c includes a first surface 412c and an opposing second surface 410c. The sheet of frangible material 405c is held in place above the void 403c by a sealing adhesive 408c disposed between the perimeter of the first surface 412c of the sheet of frangible material 405c and the perimeter of the structure 402c that defines the area of ​​the void 403c. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4C, the sealing adhesive 408c is also disposed along the periphery of the sheet of frangible material 405c and along the periphery of the second surface 410c of the sheet of frangible material 405c adjacent the area of ​​the void 403c.

[0033] 4D shows a portion of a structure 402d including a predetermined frangible area 404d that includes a void 403d within the structure 402d. A sheet of frangible material 405d is disposed above and extends across the void 403d. The sheet of frangible material 405d includes a first surface 412d and an opposing second surface 410d. The sheet of frangible material 405d is held in place above the void 403d by a sealing tape 406d along a perimeter of the second surface 410d of the sheet of frangible material 405d adjacent the area of ​​the void 403d, along a peripheral edge of the sheet of frangible material 405d, and along a perimeter of the structure 402d adjacent the area of ​​the void 403d.

[0034] 4E shows a portion of a structure 402e including a predetermined frangible area 404e that includes a void 403e within the structure 402e. A sheet of frangible material 405e is disposed above and extends across the void 403e. The sheet of frangible material 405e includes a first surface 412e and an opposing second surface 410e. The sheet of frangible material 405e is held in place above the void 403e by a sealant adhesive 408e along a perimeter of the second surface 410e of the sheet of frangible material 405e adjacent the area of ​​the void 403e, along a peripheral edge of the sheet of frangible material 405e, and along a perimeter of the structure 402e adjacent the area of ​​the void 403e. A bead of sealant adhesive 408f may be disposed along the joint formed between the first surface 412e of the sheet of frangible material 405e and the inner periphery of the structure 402e adjacent the void 403e.

[0035] Various types of conventional and / or waterproof sealing tapes and / or sealant adhesives can be used according to any embodiment disclosed herein. Suitable sealing tapes and / or sealant adhesives include those containing polyurethane, silicone, MSP (modified silane polymer) and / or butyl rubber chemistries. Suitable sealing tapes include, for example, those containing highly concentrated rubber-based adhesives. Suitable sealing tapes include those commercially available from the following manufacturers: Gorilla®, T-Rex®, SolutioNerd®, Tape Ninja®, X-Treme Tape®, and Scotch®. Suitable sealing adhesives (e.g., flowable or sprayable sealants) include those containing liquid rubber (synthetic or natural) and / or any of the chemistries listed above. Suitable sealing adhesives include those commercially available from the following manufacturers: 3M™ Building or Marine Adhesive Sealant (e.g., Marine Adhesive Sealant 5200), Liquid Nails, Flex Seal, DAP, LR (Liquid Rubber), and LOCTITE.

[0036] In various implementations, at least the sheets of fragile material 405a-405e (and in some implementations, both the sheets of fragile material 405a-405e and the structures 402a-402e) may be made of a fragile or weak material, such as glass (e.g., standard or reinforced), ceramic, plastic, laminated filler (of wood, metal or gypsum), clay, porcelain, and / or metal. The glass sheets of fragile material 405a-405e and / or the structures 402a-402e may include one or more of cast glass, slump glass, unstrengthened glass, tempered glass, heat-strengthened glass, ion-exchanged glass, soda-lime glass, lead glass, borosilicate glass, aluminosilicate glass, alkali-aluminosilicate glass, silica glass, and sodium-rich glass. Although the structures 402a-402e may be complex and may include many different materials and shapes, the frangible material may be disposed in one or more predefined frangible regions 404a-404e, each of which may include a void 403a-403e within the structures 402a-402e.

[0037] FIG. 5 illustrates an apparatus 500 including a structure 502 including a predetermined breakable area 504 and a mechanical actuator assembly 501 disposed at or proximate to the predetermined breakable area 504, according to various embodiments. The exemplary structure 502 illustrated in FIG. 5 is configured as a container or vessel. The structure 502 includes vessel walls 503 and a cover plate 505. A void 507 is defined in the space between the vessel walls 503 and the cover plate 505. According to various embodiments, a liquid, gas, or solid can be disposed in the void 507 of the structure 502. The mechanical connection or bond between the cover plate 505 and the vessel walls 503 includes a sealing member or material, such as one or a combination of the sealing tapes and sealing adhesives described above. The mechanical connection or bond between the cover plate 505 and the vessel walls 503 is preferably a waterproof connection or bond. The structure 502 can also include an electronics / sensor package, such as the electronics / sensor package 330 illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0038] The mechanical actuator assembly 501 is disposed within the void 507 of the structure 502 and is mounted or supported to the vessel wall 503 at or adjacent to the predetermined breakable area 504. As previously mentioned, the predetermined breakable area 504 may define a portion, but not the entire vessel wall 503 at or adjacent to the location of the mechanical actuator assembly 501, according to some embodiments. For example, the vessel wall 503 may be formed from a rigid material such as metal (e.g., stainless steel), plastic glass, wood, or a laminate or composite material. The predetermined breakable area 504 may include a sheet of a frangible material according to any of the previously described embodiments. In other embodiments, the predetermined breakable area 504 may define a majority (e.g., >50%) or the entire vessel wall 503. In further embodiments, the predetermined breakable area 504 may define a majority or the entire vessel wall 503, and in addition, the entire or a portion of the cover plate 505. Although shown positioned along a side region of the vessel wall 503, the mechanical actuator assembly 501 may be positioned anywhere on the vessel wall 503 (e.g., near or at the bottom of the vessel wall 503). As previously mentioned, the mechanical actuator assembly 501 is configured, upon actuation, to force an impact member via a spring arrangement into contact with the predetermined breakable region 504, causing the predetermined breakable region 504 to break, thereby facilitating the ingress and / or egress of liquids, gases, or solids into and / or from the structure 502.

[0039] FIG. 6 illustrates an apparatus 600 including a structure 602 including first and second predefined breakable regions 604a, 604b and associated first and second mechanical actuator assemblies 601a, 601b disposed at or proximate to the respective predefined breakable regions 604a, 604b, according to various embodiments. The representative structure 602 illustrated in FIG. 6 is configured as an apparatus, container, or vessel configured to float. The structure 602 includes a vessel wall 603 and a cover plate 605. A void 607 is defined in the space between the vessel wall 603 and the cover plate 605. The structure 602 may be configured, for example, as a buoy or drifter of the type previously described. In some embodiments, the vessel wall 603 of the buoy 602 is made of a stainless steel body capped by a flat cover plate 605. The cover plate 605 may be formed, for example, from a metal such as stainless steel or a plastic. The structure 602 can also include an electronics / sensor package, such as the electronics / sensor package 330 shown in FIG.

[0040] The structure 602 includes one or more holes or openings at or near the bottom of the structure 602 covered by a frangible material to define a first predetermined breakable area 604a of the vessel wall 603, as described above. It is understood that the first predetermined breakable area 604a can be located at any location of the vessel wall 603 below the predetermined water line of the structure 602. The first mechanical actuator assembly 601a is disposed at or near the first predetermined breakable area 604a. The cover plate 605 includes one or more holes or openings covered by a frangible material to define a second predetermined breakable area 604b of the cover plate 605, as described above. The second predetermined breakable area 604b can be located at any location of the cover plate 605, and is shown positioned at a peripheral location of the cover plate 605 in FIG. 6 as a representative location. It is understood that the second predetermined breakable area 604a can be located anywhere on the cover plate 605 or vessel wall 603 above the predetermined waterline of the structure 602. The second mechanical actuator assembly 601b is disposed at or near the second predetermined breakable area 604b. The ballast 610, 612 can be mounted to the vessel wall 603 at or near the bottom of the vessel wall 603. The ballast 610, 612 is preferably located on the vessel wall 603 below the predetermined waterline of the structure 602 and arranged to distribute weight within the structure 602.

[0041] As mentioned above, the mechanical actuator assemblies 601a, 601b are each configured to, when actuated, force an impact member to move into contact with a respective predefined breakable region 604a, 604b via a spring arrangement to break the respective predefined breakable region 604a, 604b. Breaking of the first predefined breakable region 604a by the first mechanical actuator assembly 601a facilitates evacuation of air from the cover plate 605 of the structure 602, while breaking of the second predefined breakable region 604b by the second mechanical actuator assembly 601b facilitates ingress of liquid (e.g., sea water or lake water) into the void 607 of the structure 602, causing the structure 602 to sink.

[0042] In various embodiments, particularly those in which the structure 602 is exposed to marine or lake water, all or a portion of the exterior surface of the structure 602 may be coated with an anti-biofouling chemical. For example, the anti-biofouling chemical coating may have a thickness of about 1.5 to about 150 μm. A suitable anti-biofouling coating material is Silicone Slip Anti-Fouling Coating (product number SS-567) available from Silicone Solutions (Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio).

[0043] Working Example To confirm the effectiveness of the self-sinking buoy despite the presence of entrained air bubbles, experiments were conducted using a structure 602 of the type described with reference to Figure 6. In the experiments, the first predetermined breakable area 604a included an opening having a diameter of 0.5 inches and the second predetermined breakable area 604b included an opening having a diameter of 0.25 inches. After actuation of the first and second mechanical actuator assemblies 601a, 601b, the chamber 607 of the structure 602 quickly filled with water, causing the structure 602 to tip over in about 28 seconds and ultimately sink within about 30 seconds of initial water ingress.

[0044] 7A-7D illustrate a mechanical actuator assembly 701 according to various embodiments. The mechanical actuator assembly 701 may be incorporated into any of the structures disclosed herein. The mechanical actuator assembly 701 includes a mechanical actuator 710 comprising a frame 716 and a spring arrangement 712 mechanically connected or coupled to the frame 716. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7D, the frame 716 is an L-shaped metal bracket and the spring arrangement 712 includes a spring element in the form of an elongated spring steel member 713. A first end 713a of the spring steel member 713 is connected to a base 716a of the frame 716, such as by way of one or more nuts and bolts, or one or more rivets or welds.

[0045] The impact member 714 is connected or coupled to the spring steel member 713 at the second end 713b of the spring steel member 713. The impact member 714 is shown as a screw with a pointed tip passing through a hole in the spring steel member 713 and secured to the second end 713b of the spring steel member 713 via a nut. It is understood that the impact member 714 can be implemented using any of the mechanical members described above configured to provide a large force or impact applied for a short period of time to a predetermined breakable area of ​​the structure. In some embodiments, the spring steel member 713 can include a mass load 715 (e.g., a metal weight such as a large bolt and / or multiple washers) connected to or located in close proximity to the impact member 714. The mass load 715 helps to increase the impact force provided by the impact member 714.

[0046] The mechanical actuator 710 also includes a restraining member 730 operably coupled to the spring arrangement 712 and a backplate 716b extending at an angle (e.g., about 90 degrees) from a base 716a of the frame 716. As shown, the restraining member 730 maintains the spring steel member 713 in a cocked state via a tension force maintained between the backplate 716b and the second end 713b of the spring steel member 713. The restraining member 730 is shown as a continuous loop member (e.g., string) extending around opposing side edges of the backplate 716b of the frame 716 and a portion of the impact member 714 (e.g., also contacting an edge surface of the second end 713b of the spring steel member 713). A printed circuit board (PCB) 720 is shown mounted to the underside of the backplate 716b and includes a side notch 722 configured to receive the restraining member 730 as it extends around the side of the backplate 716b of the frame 716. As shown in FIG. 7B, the PCB 720 can be mounted to the underside 710b of the backplate 716b via an adhesive 725 (e.g., a dielectric adhesive tape) between the PCB 720 and the underside 710b of the backplate 716b. It is understood that the PCB 720 can be mounted to the underside 710b of the backplate 716b using any type of adhesive material or fastening construction.

[0047] The restraining member 730 is configured to maintain the second end 713b of the spring steel member 713 and the impact member 714 in a pre-actuation position without releasing or breaking the restraining member 730. More specifically, the spring steel member 713 has a spring force sufficient to maintain the impact member 714 in a pre-actuation position without releasing or breaking the restraining member 730. Furthermore, the spring force of the spring steel member 713 is sufficient to cause the impact member 714 to break a predetermined breakable region of the structure in response to the release or breaking of the restraining member 730.

[0048] The mechanical actuator assembly 701 includes a trigger source 724 operably coupled to a power source (not shown) via an electrical connector 726. The power source may include one or more of a battery, a DC power source, an AC power source, a supercapacitor, and an electromagnetically coupled charge power source. As best seen in FIG. 7C, the trigger source 724 and the electrical connector 726 are disposed on a PCB 720. According to some embodiments, the trigger source 724 includes an electrical resistance heater, such as a resistor. In other embodiments, the trigger source 724 may include an electric match, an arc writer, a plasma lighter, or a semiconductor laser. The restraining member 730 is in thermal contact with the trigger source 724. When actuated, heat generated by the trigger source 724 damages the restraining member 730, causing the restraining member 730 to release the spring 713 from the pre-actuated position.

[0049] According to embodiments using a resistor as the trigger source, the resistor preferably has a relatively low resistance (e.g., about 5 ohms to about 20 ohms) and is operated beyond its specified power rating to intentionally overheat (e.g., melt) the resistor. When the resistor is intentionally driven beyond its power rating, it generates enough heat to burn through or melt the restraining member 730.

[0050] According to an embodiment of the trigger source 724 using a resistor, a carbon film resistor or metal foil resistor having a resistance of about 5 ohms to about 25 ohms and a power rating of about ⅛ watt to about ¼ watt can be used. The power source coupled to the resistor via the electrical connector 726 can be a conventional (e.g., 9V alkaline or lithium ion) battery, although custom batteries can be used. For example, the power source can include a 9V alkaline battery, an 18650 battery, or a CR123A battery. As a further example, the power source can include an alkaline battery configured to provide a peak current of about 0.6A to about 3.5A. The resistor preferably has a resistance of about ⅛ to about V of the internal impedance of the power source. 2 / P, where V is the voltage of the power source and P is the minimum power required to break the restraining member 730. In various embodiments using a common 9V alkaline battery as the power source, the resistor can have a resistance in the range of about 5 ohms to about 20 ohms (e.g., about 10 ohms) for good impedance matching. Other choices or resistor values ​​may be more suitable for different types of power sources or different power delivery configurations.

[0051] As previously mentioned, the mechanical actuator assembly 701 can be configured as a compact device. According to some embodiments, the base 716a of the L-bracket frame 716 can have a length and width of about 1.5 inches, and the back plate 716b of the L-bracket frame 716 can have a length of about 1.6 inches and a width of about 1.5 inches. The spring steel member 713 can have a length of about 3.75 inches and a width of about 1.5 inches in a relaxed (uncocked) state. A hole having a diameter of about 0.177 inches (to accommodate the impact member 714, e.g., a #10×½ inch piercing sheet metal screw) can be provided about 0.25 inches from the second end 713b of the spring steel member 713 and centered between the two sides of the spring steel member 713. The spring steel member 713 can be rectangular in shape and formed using 1095 spring steel (e.g., 0.032 inches, hardness RC50). The PCB 720 may have a width of about 1.7 inches and a height of about 0.9 inches. The notch 722 may have a cut depth and height of about 0.10 inches, respectively. The resistor 724 may be a 10 ohm metal film 1 / 4 watt resistor or a 10 ohm carbon film 1 / 8 watt resistor. The restraining member 730 may be a braided nylon string (e.g., 131 lb, available from TWEvans Cordage as item 12-500 No-1). The power connector 726 may be an XH2 header.

[0052] 7E-7G show a mechanical actuator assembly 701a according to various embodiments. The mechanical actuator assembly 701a is structurally and functionally similar to the mechanical actuator assembly 701 shown in FIGS. 7A-7D. Thus, many of the features common to the two mechanical actuator assemblies 701, 701a are not shown in FIGS. 7E-7G for clarity. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7E-7G, an elongated spring steel member 713a has a tapered second end 713c to which an impact member 714 is attached. The tapered shape of the second end 713c provides a more compact design for a wide variety of structures (e.g., containers and vessels), especially those with curved walls. Also, a mass load 715a attached to the second end 713c comprises a stack of metal washers with a central cavity. An impact member 714 (e.g., a sheet metal drill screw) passes through a central cavity in the mass load 715a and through a hole disposed near the distal tip of the second end 713c. The impact member 714 and mass load 715a are secured to the second end 713c by a nut 714a.

[0053] In the embodiment shown in Figures 7E-7G, the PCB 720a is mounted to the underside of the backplate 716b. In this embodiment, the PCB 720a does not include the notch 722 (see Figures 7A-7C) and is coextensive with or has a width less than the width of the backplate 716b. As shown, the restraining member 730 (e.g., a string) extends around the backplate 716b and the PCB 720a. The restraining member 730 also extends under or around the mass load 715a (shown as a stack of washers) and the head side of the impact member 714. In this configuration, the restraining member 730 does not extend above the distal edge of the second and 713c as in the embodiment shown in Figures 7A-7C. The tying arrangement of the restraining member 730 shown in Figures 7A-7C eliminates the risk of premature failure of the restraining member 730 during operation.

[0054] Also shown in the embodiment of Figures 7E-7G and best seen in Figure 7G, the base 716a of the frame 716 is mounted to the plate 751 using fasteners 718a (e.g., <0.030 inch screw heads) having flat engagement surfaces that facilitate substantially recessing the mechanical actuator assembly 701a relative to the plate 751. The fasteners 718a can be flush head studs or pins (e.g., PEM® Fasteners available from Penn Engineering®). Recessing the mechanical actuator assembly 701a into the plate 751 advantageously prevents or significantly reduces tilting of the mechanical actuator assembly 701a when mounted to the plate 751 (e.g., a 1 mm thick base plate) and allows the use of a single layer of adhesive (e.g., 3M® VHP double-cited adhesive tape) to mount the plate 751 to the vessel structure (e.g., a vessel base surface as shown in Figure 7H). The embodiment shown in Figures 7E-7G provides ease of manufacturing by simplifying the process of placing the spring steel member 713a in the cocked (pre-actuated) state.

[0055] 7H and 7I show an apparatus 750 comprising a two-part structure 750a that together form a container or vessel of the type described above. Structure 750a includes a vessel 752 and a cover plate 754. For purposes of illustration, structure 750a is shown as being transparent or translucent. It is understood that structure 750a can be constructed from any structural material including, for example, metal, plastic, reinforced glass, ceramic, or any combination of these and other materials.

[0056] The container 752 shown in FIG. 7H includes a plate 753a attached to a base surface 752a of the container 752. The plate 753a supports at least one mechanical actuator assembly 701a-1 of the type previously described (e.g., shown as the illustrated embodiment in FIGS. 7E-7G for illustrative purposes). The plate 753a can be attached to the base surface 752a of the container 752 using an adhesive (e.g., 3M® VHP double-sided adhesive tape) or other attachment configuration. The mechanical actuator assembly 701a-1 and the plate 753a are positioned on the base surface 752a such that the impact member 714 of the mechanical actuator assembly 701a-1 is positioned against a predetermined breakable area 755 of the base surface 752a. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7H, the predetermined breakable region 75 is positioned over a void in the base surface 752a and includes an ion-exchange glass window mounted to the base surface 752a via a sealing construction such as any of those discussed herein (e.g., 3M® RP25 VHB Seal).

[0057] FIG. 7I illustrates a cover plate 754 of the two-part structure 750a shown in FIG. 7H, according to various embodiments. In this embodiment, the cover plate 754 includes a mechanical actuator assembly 701a-2 of the type described above secured to a plate 753b. For illustrative purposes, the cover plate 754 is shown upside down relative to its installed configuration to facilitate explanation of the mechanical actuator assembly 701a-2. The plate 753b can be attached to the cover plate 754 in the same manner as described above with reference to FIG. 7H and other figures. The mechanical actuator assembly 701a-2 and the plate 753b are positioned on the cover plate 754 such that the impact member 714 of the mechanical actuator assembly 701a-2 is positioned against a predetermined breakable area 759 of the cover plate 754. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7I, the predetermined breakable area 759 is positioned over a gap in the cover plate 754 and includes an ion-exchange glass window mounted to the cover plate 754 via a sealing arrangement such as any of those discussed herein (e.g., a 3M® RP25 VHB Seal).

[0058] FIG. 8 illustrates a mechanical actuator assembly 801 according to various embodiments. The mechanical actuator assembly 801 can be incorporated into any of the structures disclosed herein. The mechanical actuator assembly 801 includes a mechanical actuator 810 comprising a base 816 and a spring arrangement 812 mechanically connected or coupled to the base 816. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the spring arrangement 812 includes a torsion spring 813. The base 816 incorporates a machined groove 817 for securing a first leg (hidden from view) of the torsion spring 813. The first leg of the torsion spring 813 is press-fit into the groove 817. An optional adhesive can be included to enhance the attachment. The groove 817 also serves to precisely position the torsion spring 813 relative to a tie-down location on the base 816. The tie-down location includes a notch 822 on the base 816 base that accommodates a restraining member 830 (e.g., a string).

[0059] The mechanical actuator 810 includes an impact member 814 coupled to a torsion spring 813. A load mass 815 (e.g., a nut and bolt) can be attached to the tip of the second end of the torsion spring 813 to store mechanical energy. The nut and bolt arrangement holds the impact member 814 securely in place, which is shown as a lock washer with protruding serrated teeth 814a. The torsion spring 813 and load mass 815 are cocked backwards with a restraining member 830 (e.g., a string) looped around a trigger source 824 in the form of a resistor. The resistor 824 is designed to function as a heater such that when actuated by current from a power source (e.g., a battery, not shown) electrically coupled to electrical leads 826a, 826b, it heats up to a high temperature and breaks the restraining member 830. When the mechanical actuator 810 is electrically actuated, one or more serrated teeth 814a of the lock washer 814 strike a pre-defined breakable area of ​​the structure with an impact pressure that breaks the sheet of frangible material at the pre-defined breakable area (e.g., causes breaching of a vessel wall of the structure, causing the structure to sink). The mechanical actuator assembly 801 can have a compact configuration having approximately the same footprint as that of the exemplary mechanical actuator assembly 701 described above (e.g., approximately the same footprint, a somewhat smaller footprint (e.g., 5-15% smaller), or a somewhat larger footprint (e.g., 5-15% larger)).

[0060] The components of the mechanical actuator assembly of the present disclosure are carefully designed to ensure that the device operates reliably and as intended. The torque-to-volume ratio of the spring in the designed retracted (cocked) position of the impact member must be high enough to break the intended target (e.g., fragile sheet material) upon impact, yet low enough to hold the restraining member back without breaking. In general, the restraining member is relatively inelastic and strong under tension, but can be easily burned with heat, breaking instantly with heat rather than slowly stretching with a gradual decrease in Young's modulus. In some implementations, the restraining member can be relatively elastic. According to embodiments that include a resistor as a component of the trigger source, the resistor is preferably designed with a resistance value and power rating that generates high heat from a low-cost battery that lasts for a sufficient period of time to break the restraining member.

[0061] According to embodiments that include tying a restraining member around a resistor, such as the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, it is important that the resistor heater is not tied with more than one knot in the restraining member (e.g., string), since multiple knots may keep the string intact even if the wrapped portion of the string breaks due to activation of the heater. FIGS. 9A-9C show various embodiments for wrapping a pre-looped string around a resistor heater of a mechanical actuator assembly. These methods allow for a simple and low-cost method for incorporating a resistor heater into a restraining loop. FIG. 9A shows a pre-looped string 930a with a single knot 932a. FIG. 9B shows a method for wrapping a resistor heater 924b by inserting the looped string 930b into itself such that the knot 932b is positioned away from the resistor heater 924b. FIG. 9C illustrates a resistor heater 924c incorporated into a string restraint having a remaining loop 930c for tying down a spring member such that the knot 932c is positioned away from the resistor heater 924c.

[0062] Reference is now made to the accompanying set of drawings, which form a part of this disclosure, and at least one skilled in the art will appreciate that various adaptations and modifications of the embodiments described herein are within the scope of the present disclosure and do not depart therefrom. For example, aspects of the embodiments described herein can be combined with each other in various ways. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the claimed invention may be practiced other than as expressly described herein.

[0063] All references and publications cited herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety into this disclosure, except to the extent that they may directly contradict this disclosure. Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing characteristic sizes, quantities, and physical properties used in the specification and claims can be understood as being modified by the terms "exactly" or "about". Thus, unless otherwise indicated, the numerical parameters set forth in the foregoing specification and the appended claims are approximations that may vary depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by those skilled in the art utilizing the teachings disclosed herein, or approximations within typical ranges of experimental error, for example.

[0064] The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers subsumed within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5) and any range within that range. As used herein, the terms "up to" or "less than or equal to" modifying a number (e.g., "up to 50") include that number (e.g., 50), and the term "greater than or equal to" modifying a number (e.g., "greater than or equal to 5") includes that number (e.g., 5).

[0065] The terms "coupled" or "connected" refer to elements that are attached to each other either directly (in direct contact with each other) or indirectly (having one or more elements between the two elements to attach the two elements). Either term may be modified by "operatively" and "operably," which may be used interchangeably to describe that the coupling or connection is configured to enable the components to interact to perform at least some function (e.g., a wireless chip may be operably coupled to an antenna element to provide a radio frequency electrical signal for wireless communication).

[0066] Orientational terms such as "top," "bottom," "side," and "end" are used to describe the relative positions of components and are not meant to limit the orientation of the contemplated embodiments. For example, an embodiment described as having a "top" and a "bottom" also encompasses that embodiment rotated in various orientations unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0067] References to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "a particular embodiment," or "some embodiments" or the like mean that the particular feature, configuration, composition, or characteristic described in connection with this embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. Thus, the appearances of such phrases in various places throughout do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment of the disclosure. Furthermore, the particular features, configurations, compositions, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0068] The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the present disclosure that may provide certain benefits, under particular circumstances. However, other embodiments may be preferred, under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0069] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include embodiments having plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally employed in its sense including "and / or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0070] As used herein, the terms "have," "having," "include," "including," "comprise," "comprising," and the like are used in an open-ended sense and generally mean "including, but not limited to." "Consisting essentially of," "consisting of," and the like will be understood to be encompassed by "comprising," and the like. The term "and / or" means one or all of the listed elements or a combination of at least two of the listed elements.

[0071] The phrases "at least one," "comprising at least one of," and "one or more of," when used in a list, refer to any one of the items in the list, and any combination of two or more items in the list.

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus comprising: a structure including a predetermined frangible region; a mechanical actuator disposed at or proximate to the predetermined frangible area, a spring arrangement and an impact member coupled to the spring arrangement; a restraining member operably coupled to the spring arrangement; and a trigger source operably coupled to the power supply; The device, wherein the trigger source is configured, in response to receiving an electric current from the power source, to release or break the restraining member such that the spring arrangement can force the impact member to move into contact with the predetermined breakable area and break the predetermined breakable area.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the trigger source comprises a heat source operably coupled to a power source and in thermal contact with the restraining member.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the structure is frangible and configured to break in response to breaking of the predetermined frangible region.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the trigger source comprises at least one of an electrical resistance heater, an electrical match, an arc writer, a plasma writer, a semiconductor laser, an electromagnetic device, and an electrostatic device.

5. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the power source comprises at least one of a battery, a DC power source, an AC power source, a supercapacitor, and an inductively coupled charge power source.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the spring arrangement is a torsion spring.

7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the spring arrangement comprises a spring steel member.

8. The spring structure includes: maintaining the impact member in a pre-actuation position without releasing or breaking the restraining member; and 2. The apparatus of claim 1, including a spring element having a spring force sufficient to cause the impact member to break the predetermined breakable region in response to the release or breaking of the restraining member.

9. The trigger source is mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB); The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the PCB is affixed to a frame or base of the mechanical actuator.

10. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the trigger source comprises a resistor.

11. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the resistor has a resistance in the range of about one-eighth the internal impedance of the power source to about V / P, where V is the voltage of the power source and P is the minimum power required to break the restraining member.

12. The device of claim 1 , wherein the restraining member comprises a string.

13. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the mechanical actuator comprises a mass load connected to or located proximate to the impact member.

14. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the predetermined breakable area comprises a sheet of glass or a sheet of tempered glass.

15. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the sheet of glass or tempered glass has a thickness of up to about 2 mm.

16. the predetermined frangible area comprises a void within the structure; a sheet of glass or tempered glass is disposed above the cavity; 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein one or both of a sealant adhesive and a sealing tape are disposed in the predetermined breakable area and below and / or above a perimeter of the sheet of glass.

17. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the power source comprises an alkaline battery configured to provide a peak current of about 0.6 A to about 3.5 A.

18. 1. An apparatus comprising: a container including a predetermined frangible region; a mechanical actuator disposed within the container and located at or proximate to the predetermined breakable area, a spring arrangement and an impact member coupled to the spring arrangement; a restraining member operably coupled to the spring arrangement; and a heat source operably coupled to a power source and in thermal contact with the restraining member; The heat source is configured, in response to receiving an electric current from the power source, such that the spring arrangement forces the impact member into contact with the predetermined breakable area, breaking the predetermined breakable area and thereby breaking the restraining member to facilitate the entry or ejection of liquids, gases or solids into or from the container.

19. the predetermined frangible area comprises a void within the container; a sheet of glass or tempered glass is disposed above the cavity; 20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein one or both of a sealant adhesive and a sealing tape are disposed in the predetermined breakable area and below and / or above a perimeter of the sheet of glass or tempered glass.

20. the trigger source includes at least one of an electrical resistance heater, an electrical match, an arc writer, a plasma writer, and a semiconductor laser; 20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the power source comprises at least one of a battery, a DC power source, an AC power source, a supercapacitor, and an inductively coupled charge power source.

21. The apparatus of claim 18 , wherein the spring arrangement comprises a torsion spring or spring steel member.

22. The spring structure includes: maintaining the impact member in a pre-actuation position without breaking the restraining member; and 20. The apparatus of claim 18, including a spring element having a spring force sufficient to cause the impact member to break the predetermined breakable region in response to breaking of the restraining member.

23. 1. An apparatus comprising:

1. A container configured to float in a liquid, comprising: a first predetermined frangible area at a first location of the container; a second predetermined frangible area at a second location of the container spaced from the first location; a first mechanical actuator disposed within the container and located at or proximate to the first predetermined breakable area; a second mechanical actuator disposed within the container and located at or proximate to the second predetermined breakable area, Each of the first mechanical actuator and the second mechanical actuator comprises: a spring arrangement and an impact member coupled to the spring arrangement; a restraining member operably coupled to the spring arrangement; a trigger source configured to contact or move into contact with the restraining member; and a power supply arrangement operably coupled to the trigger source of each of the first mechanical actuator and the second mechanical actuator; the trigger source of each of the first mechanical actuator and the second mechanical actuator is configured in response to receiving an electric current from the power supply arrangement to cause the spring arrangement to force the impact member into contact with the respective first and second predetermined breakable areas to break the respective first and second predetermined breakable areas, thereby releasing or breaking the restraining member to facilitate evacuation of air from the container through one of the broken first and second predetermined breakable areas and to facilitate ingress of the liquid into the container through the other of the broken first and second predetermined breakable areas.

24. The power supply structure includes: a first power source operably coupled to the first mechanical actuator; a second power source operably coupled to the second mechanical actuator.

25. the container is configured to float in water; 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein actuation of the trigger source of each of the first mechanical actuator and the second mechanical actuator causes the container to sink.

26. one of the first and second positions of the container is above a predetermined water line of the container to facilitate evacuation of air from the container; 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the other of the first and second positions of the container is below the predetermined water line of the container to facilitate entry of the liquid into the container.

27. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein one of the first and second positions of the container is oriented above the predetermined water line of the container and comprises one or more ballasts configured to distribute weight within the apparatus to facilitate evacuation of air from the container during entry of liquid.

28. the container is configured to float in water; 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein all or a portion of an exterior surface of the container comprises an anti-biofouling chemical coating.

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