Horizontal Linear-Actuator Press for Stable Explosive Neutralization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing press systems for neutralizing explosive devices are bulky, obstructive, and unstable, making them difficult to transport and operate remotely, and dynamic methods can inadvertently ignite explosive fillers.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, remotely operable press device with a horizontal actuator and guide rails, featuring a linear actuator and positioning actuators to stabilize and position the explosive device, using quasistatic methods to apply high forces slowly and safely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a traditional press system is used to neutralize explosive devices, then high force can be applied to compromise structural integrity, but the system becomes bulky, heavy, and unstable requiring outriggers and support platforms
Solution Approach 1:
The press system is divided into separate functional modules: a lightweight aluminum alloy frame, a modular actuator assembly, and a target platform. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for weight reduction while maintaining structural integrity and force output capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is constructed using composite materials including aluminum alloy with reinforced joints, combining lightweight properties with sufficient strength to support high force application during explosive device neutralization operations.
2Force
If a traditional press system is used, then high force can be applied to neutralize the device, but the frame obstructs vision and access from robots used to place the explosive device
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator assembly is repositioned to operate in a different spatial dimension relative to the target platform, allowing robotic manipulation from above while the pressing action occurs horizontally. This dimensional separation eliminates obstruction of robotic access and vision.
3Productivity
If dynamic methods are used to neutralize IEDs, then rapid neutralization is achieved, but shock, friction, and compressive heating can cause explosive filler to ignite
Solution Approach 1:
The press system applies force in controlled periodic cycles rather than continuous dynamic impact. The actuator can be programmed to apply pressure in staged increments with controlled pauses, allowing heat dissipation between cycles while progressively compromising the explosive device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system controls the rate of force application and temperature parameters to remain below ignition thresholds for the explosive filler. By adjusting the speed and duration of pressing cycles, the system achieves neutralization through controlled quasistatic compression rather than dynamic impact.
4Reliability
If a remote access tool with jaws is used to pinch the explosive device, then the operator can be located at a safe distance, but excessive compressive stress and frictional heating can cause explosive filler to ignite
Solution Approach 1:
A specialized tool mounted on the target platform serves as an intermediary between the remote actuator and the explosive device. This tool distributes the applied force over a larger area and controls the compression rate to prevent excessive stress concentration and frictional heating while maintaining operator safety through remote operation.
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 provides stable, safe, and efficient neutralization of explosive devices by minimizing shock and friction, allowing remote operation and easy transport, reducing the risk of ignition.
Implementation Method 1
Press systems provide quasistatic tools for neutralizing explosive devices. Press systems operate using actuators that output high forces... to slowly cut through a bomb casing
Implementation Method 2
A press device includes a frame having a target base disposed over an upper portion thereof, a back support extending vertically from the frame adjacent to the target base, and a linear actuator mounted to the frame and positioned to actuate along a translation axis substantially parallel to the target base and toward the back support
Data Source
AI summary
A press device may include a frame comprising a target base disposed over an upper portion thereof, a back support extending vertically from the frame adjacent to the target base, and a linear actuator mounted to the frame and positioned to actuate along a translation axis substantially parallel to the target base and toward the back support. The press device may also include a fracturing tool coupled to first linear actuator to actuate along the translation axis over the target base, and a positioning actuator coupled to the frame to actuate along the target base in a direction substantially perpendicular to the translation axis.