Emergency Closure Opening Using Pneumatic Gasket Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing emergency opening systems for manholes, doors, and hatches in heavy, reinforced structures such as armored vehicles and buildings are inadequate, as standard solutions fail to generate sufficient force for quick evacuation in emergency situations, and installation of actuators is often hindered by space constraints.
Innovation Solution
The development of a system utilizing a pneumatic gasket actuator with a flexible material and shape memory alloys, which can be installed in constrained spaces and generates high forces for emergency opening, including the use of pyrotechnic gas generators and electronic control systems for activation, allowing for efficient opening of robustly constructed entry and exit points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If standard emergency opening actuators are used in heavy reinforced structures, then the device complexity is reduced, but the force generated is insufficient for quick evacuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a pneumatic actuator system that generates high force through compressed air or gas. The pneumatic mechanism converts pneumatic energy into mechanical motion to forcefully open reinforced doors and hatches, providing sufficient opening force for heavy structures without requiring overly complex mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes shape memory alloys that change their physical properties (shape, stiffness) in response to temperature or other parameter changes. This allows the actuator to generate high force through material property transformation rather than complex mechanical multiplication, simplifying the overall device while maintaining high opening capability.
2Volume of moving object
If traditional actuators are installed in constrained spaces, then the device complexity is minimized, but the installation space requirements are not met
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a telescopic actuator design where components are nested within each other during storage, allowing the actuator to occupy minimal space when not in use. The telescopic mechanism extends only when activation is required, enabling installation in constrained spaces such as door edges or frame recesses without requiring large permanent installation volumes.
3Speed
If high force is generated for emergency opening, then the speed of opening is improved, but the risk to occupants from the actuator operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates cushioning elements and controlled force release mechanisms that prepare for and manage the high-force opening action. The system controls the deployment and force application to prevent sudden, uncontrolled movements that could harm occupants, while still achieving rapid opening through the cushioned force application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses intermediary elements such as flexible seals, cushioning materials, or controlled force transmission components between the actuator and the door/hatch structure. These intermediaries mediate the force transmission to reduce direct impact on occupants while maintaining the high force needed for rapid opening of reinforced structures.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid and safe emergency opening of reinforced doors and hatches, even in heavy structures, with reduced risk to occupants and improved safety, while allowing for installation in spaces where traditional actuators cannot be used due to size constraints.
Implementation Method 1
pyrotechnic gas generators
Implementation Method 2
shape memory alloys
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated system for releasing trapped persons in a vehicle (PARIS) includes a central management unit (CPU) to which sensors (D1, D2, . . . Dn), an input-output socket (S) for connecting a service computer and control switches or buttons, and at least the following are connected at an output of the central management unit: an automatic seatbelt cutting system (SBC), a system for automatically opening door locks and bolts and locking them in the open position (LOB), and a system for automatically swinging doors and locking them in the open position (DOB).