Explosive Focusing via Segmented Hollows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing counter-explosion technologies often produce fragments that are not fast enough, directional enough, or have sufficient kinetic energy to effectively interact with incoming threats.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a rigid outer shell, an explosive filling with inwardly extending hollows, and a gap between the explosive filling and the rigid outer shell, which controls the formation of a HEAT jet to dictate the size, speed, and scatter pattern of fragments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If conventional counter-explosions are used, then the device structure is simple, but the fragments are not fast enough and lack sufficient kinetic energy
Solution Approach 1:
The explosive charge is segmented into multiple hollows extending from the surface toward the center, each hollow acting as an independent shaped charge unit. This segmentation allows multiple directed fragments to be produced from a single detonation, increasing fragment speed and directionality without requiring multiple separate explosive devices
Solution Approach 2:
The hollows are strategically positioned and dimensioned to create localized high-speed jet formation at specific locations within the explosive charge. By concentrating the explosive energy into these defined hollow structures, the system achieves high fragment velocity in predetermined directions while maintaining overall device simplicity
2Shape
If conventional counter-explosions are used, then the device is easy to manufacture, but the fragments are not directional enough
Solution Approach 1:
The explosive charge is divided into multiple hollows extending from the surface toward the center, each hollow acting as an independent shaped charge unit. This segmentation allows multiple directed fragments to be produced from a single detonation, increasing fragment speed and directionality without requiring multiple separate explosive devices
Solution Approach 2:
The hollows are pre-formed within the explosive charge during manufacturing, establishing the fragment directionality before the device is deployed. This preliminary structuring of the explosive geometry ensures that when detonated, fragments will naturally emerge in the desired directions without requiring complex external guidance mechanisms
3Power
If conventional counter-explosions are used, then the device structure is simple, but the kinetic energy is insufficient to interact with incoming threats
Solution Approach 1:
The hollows are designed with specific dimensional parameters (depth, radius, taper angle) that optimize the conversion of explosive chemical energy into kinetic energy of fragments. By carefully controlling these geometric parameters, the system maximizes fragment velocity and kinetic energy output while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure
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
The device produces focused explosions with high-speed fragments that can be directed in multiple predetermined directions from a single detonation point, providing enhanced effectiveness against incoming threats.
Implementation Method 1
The jet then dictates the size, speed and scatter pattern, including trajectory, of the fragments formed when the HEAT jet formed reaches the rigid outer cover
Implementation Method 2
a planned design of the explosive device may control the parameters of the explosion and direct a desired directional yield
Data Source
AI summary
Device for producing focused explosions, comprises a rigid outer shell, an explosive filling, the explosive filling comprising a plurality of inwardly extending hollows; and a gap defined between the explosive filling and the rigid outer shell.