Semi-Autonomous Cutting Device for Firefighting Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for creating access openings in structures during emergencies, such as firefighting, are hazardous and time-consuming due to the difficulty in precisely cutting through materials while navigating heat, smoke, and limited range of motion with hand-held saws.
Innovation Solution
A semi-autonomous cutting device attached to a high-reaching extendible turret, equipped with a saw assembly and motor assembly that can rotate about multiple axes, controlled by a system using sensors to position and maneuver the saw for precise cutting, allowing for remote operation and enhanced safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If hand-held saws are used to cut access openings in structures, then cutting capability is provided, but operator safety deteriorates due to exposure to heat, smoke, and flame
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a robotic arm as an intermediary device between the operator and the cutting task. The robotic arm is equipped with a saw blade and can be controlled remotely or autonomously to cut through structures, thereby eliminating direct operator exposure to hazardous conditions while maintaining cutting capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of hand-held saw operation with an automated robotic system. The robotic arm incorporates motors, sensors, and control systems to perform cutting operations automatically, substituting human physical operation with mechanical automation
2Productivity
If hand-held saws are used with limited range of motion on ladders, then cutting can be performed, but time consumption increases due to repeated repositioning
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm is designed with multiple degrees of freedom and dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing it to adapt its position and orientation continuously during cutting operations. This eliminates the need for repeated repositioning of ladders and improves cutting efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system integrates multiple functions including positioning, cutting, and navigation within a single platform. The robotic arm can reach various positions and angles without requiring external support structures like ladders, reducing time loss
3Manufacturing precision
If a single firefighter operates hand-held saws, then equipment portability is maintained, but cutting precision deteriorates due to difficulty in precise cutting while wearing firefighting gear
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system incorporates sensors and autonomous navigation capabilities that allow it to self-position and self-adjust during cutting operations. The system can detect the structure geometry and automatically adjust its cutting path, eliminating the need for manual precision control by firefighters
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system uses sensors to continuously monitor its position, the structure being cut, and cutting progress. This feedback is processed by control algorithms that adjust the cutting parameters in real-time, ensuring high precision without requiring manual intervention
Data Source
AI summary
A cutting device is configured to attach to a boom arm and includes a saw assembly with a cutting portion configured to cut into a target surface. The cutting device also includes a motor assembly coupled to the saw assembly. The motor assembly has at least two motors configured to rotate the saw assembly about two different axes. The cutting device further comprises a control system operatively coupled to the motor assembly. The control system has at least two sensors coupled to the saw assembly and the control system is configured to position the saw assembly to cut a target surface based on feedback from the at least sensors.