Laminated Foam Charge Mount for Fast, Consistent Breaching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securely and efficiently positioning explosive charges on structures for breaching are time-consuming and require improvements in terms of speed, reliability, and minimal impact on the energy release of the charge.
Innovation Solution
A mounting device comprising a laminated foam structure with two layers of foam materials, where one layer is more deformable and conformable to the target surface, reducing the stand-off distance and enhancing the energy shock or jet produced by the explosive charge, while the denser layer provides structural integrity without attenuating the shock wave.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a mounting device is used to position explosive charges, then the time required to mount the explosive charge is reduced, but the reliability of positioning and consistency of stand-off distance may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device is pre-configured with the explosive charge and detonation cord in a factory-assembled unit, eliminating the need for on-site assembly. This preliminary preparation reduces mounting time while maintaining positioning reliability through precision manufacturing of the pre-assembled components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs foam materials with specifically controlled density parameters (e.g., 30-60 kg/m³ for the first foam, 80-120 kg/m³ for the second foam) to achieve optimal balance between conformability to target surfaces and structural integrity. This parameter optimization ensures both quick deployment and consistent stand-off distance.
2Strength
If a denser foam material is used to provide structural integrity, then the structural strength of the mounting device is improved, but the energy transfer and shock wave transmission may be attenuated
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device uses a laminated composite structure with two distinct foam materials of different densities. The less dense first foam (30-60 kg/m³) optimizes energy transmission and conformability, while the denser second foam (80-120 kg/m³) provides structural integrity and rigidity. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by combining materials with complementary properties.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the mounting device use foam materials with locally optimized densities - the first foam layer contacts the target surface and prioritizes energy transmission, while the second foam layer provides structural support. This local differentiation of material properties allows simultaneous optimization of both energy transfer and structural strength.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a less deformable foam material is used, then the structural stability of the mounting device is improved, but the conformability to target surface and reduction of stand-off distance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The laminated foam structure combines a softer, more deformable first foam material with a stiffer, less deformable second foam material. The first foam conforms to irregular target surfaces to achieve consistent stand-off distance, while the second foam maintains structural stability during handling and deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting device is segmented into multiple functional layers with different mechanical properties. The first foam layer handles the conformability function by deforming to match target geometry, while the second foam layer handles the structural stability function. This segmentation allows each layer to optimize its specific function without compromising the other.
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 solution significantly reduces the time required to mount the explosive charge, improves the reliability of breaching by ensuring consistent stand-off distance and energy transfer, and maintains the structural integrity of the mounting device without impeding the explosive's energy release.
Implementation Method 1
the first foam material is more deformable than the second foam material such that the first layer comprising a first foam material is conformable to a target surface
Implementation Method 2
enhancing the energy shock or jet produced by the explosive charge
Implementation Method 3
the detonation of the explosive charge(s) and breaching of the structure is effective
Implementation Method 4
the denser layer provides structural integrity without attenuating the shock wave
Data Source
AI summary
Examples relate to a mounting device for an explosive charge, comprising a first layer comprising a first foam material, and a second layer comprising a second foam material. The first layer comprises a first surface for facing a target and a second surface adjoining the second layer. The second layer comprises a recess for receiving at least one of the explosive charges.


