Remote Explosive Separation Tool Using LEFP for UXO Fuze Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for safely separating fuzing components from UXO projectiles involve manual placement of penetrating charges, posing significant danger to humans due to the risk of explosion.
Innovation Solution
A remote explosive separation tool using a Linear Explosively Formed Projectile (LEFP) generated from a copper liner, which is launched at the UXO casing to separate fuzing components without detonating the main charge, utilizing an unmanned vehicle for safe and controlled deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual placement of penetrating charges is used, then the steel casing can be penetrated to separate fuzing components, but the risk of explosion and injury to humans increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (the penetrator tool with shaped charge) that performs the dangerous penetration function remotely, mediating between the operator and the UXO target. This intermediary carries the explosive charge and penetration capability while being positioned and operated at a safe distance, thus achieving separation effectiveness without exposing humans to explosion risk
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical placement of charges with a remotely operated system that uses shaped charge physics. Instead of manually positioning penetrating charges against the UXO, the system uses a controlled shaped charge mechanism that directs explosive energy through a liner to create a high-velocity jet for remote penetration, substituting dangerous manual mechanical operations with a more controlled physics-based approach
2Object-affected harmful factors
If remote explosive separation tool is used, then human safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex remote explosive separation tool into distinct functional modules: the housing structure, the shaped charge mechanism (including liner and explosive), the positioning system (stand-off distance control), and the unmanned vehicle interface. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system design and operation while maintaining safety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the housing and positioning system to serve multiple functions: the housing contains and protects the explosive mechanism, provides structural support, and interfaces with unmanned vehicles. The positioning system simultaneously controls stand-off distance, aims the penetrator, and ensures stable deployment. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, managing device complexity while achieving safety goals
3Strength
If linear concave copper liner is used to form LEFP, then penetration capability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies precise geometric parameters for the linear concave copper liner, including its elliptical cross-section dimensions and curvature profile. By carefully controlling these geometric parameters during manufacturing, the shaped charge produces a consistent high-velocity linear explosively formed projectile with optimal penetration capability. The parameter specifications guide manufacturing to achieve the required precision for effective penetration
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 tool effectively separates fuzing components from UXO projectiles at high speed, ensuring the main charge remains safe and preventing further hazards, demonstrated by successful tests on inert and live projectiles.
Implementation Method 1
A quantity of C-4 explosive may be packed in the housing
Implementation Method 2
A linear concave copper liner may be disposed in the housing adjacent to the quantity of C-4 explosive. The linear concave copper liner may face the open front of the housing and have an elliptical cross-section
Implementation Method 3
The LEFP may be directed at the UXO. Using the LEFP, the fuzing components may be separated from the main charge without setting off or detonating the main charge
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary embodiments of apparatus and methods for remotely and explosively cutting the casing of a UXO and separating the fuzing components from the main charge in the UXO. A remote explosive separation tool creates a Linear Explosively Formed Projectile (LEFP) charge to separate fuzing components from live explosive threats in UXO, for example only, a 155 mm artillery round. The tool functions by explosively deforming a copper liner into a linear projectile or penetrator which then impacts the UXO casing. The speed of impact enables the fuzing elements of the UXO to be removed from the main charge of the UXO either by directly cutting the fuze elements off or by imparting the fuze elements with enough momentum such that they break off. The process of dismembering the fuze elements occurs without detonating the main charge of the UXO. The tool may be remotely placed by an unmanned vehicle.