Vehicle Stabilization via Groundwards Force Against Explosion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle protection systems fail to effectively mitigate the impact of explosions on vehicles, particularly in terms of preventing upward acceleration and subsequent injury to occupants, as they do not adequately address the mechanical deformation caused by explosions underneath or beside the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle equipped with a sensor array that detects mechanical deformation at different heights within the base, coupled with control circuitry that applies a groundwards force in response to the detected explosion, utilizing vehicle stabilizing devices such as rocket motors or ballistic devices to counteract the upward force generated by the explosion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If armour is added to protect occupants from shrapnel and blast, then occupant protection is improved, but vehicle weight and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor array detects explosion parameters (pressure, temperature, light, deformation) in advance, and the control circuitry calculates the required counter-force before the vehicle is actually propelled. This preliminary detection and calculation allows the stabilization system to be prepared and activated rapidly, improving response time without requiring permanent heavy stabilization structures to be always engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the vehicle by applying dynamic counter-forces through propulsion systems. Rather than using static armour alone, the system actively adjusts thrust parameters to compensate for explosion forces, allowing for lighter armour construction while maintaining protection levels.
2Strength
If heavier armour is used to resist explosion forces, then structural strength is improved, but the vehicle's mobility and speed deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces purely passive mechanical armour with an active stabilization system using sensors and control circuitry. The sensor array detects explosion parameters and the control system calculates required counter-forces, then propulsion systems apply compensating forces. This substitution allows for reduced armour mass while maintaining structural integrity during explosions, thereby preserving vehicle speed and mobility.
3Reliability
If passive armour is used to withstand explosion forces, then protection is improved, but the vehicle can still be rapidly accelerated into the air by large explosions, causing occupant injury
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs feedback control by continuously monitoring explosion parameters through the sensor array (pressure, temperature, light, deformation sensors) and using this information to dynamically adjust the counter-force applied by the propulsion system. The control circuitry calculates the exact force needed based on real-time sensor data, ensuring the vehicle remains stable during and after explosions, preventing upward acceleration that could injure occupants.
4Reliability
If a sensor array and control system are added to detect and respond to explosions, then vehicle stabilization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multi-functional sensors that can detect multiple explosion parameters (pressure, temperature, light, deformation) simultaneously, and the control circuitry performs multiple functions including force calculation, timing, and coordination of propulsion systems. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, managing system complexity while achieving comprehensive explosion response capability.
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 system effectively stabilizes the vehicle by applying a groundwards force that counteracts the upward motion caused by explosions, reducing the risk of injury to occupants and minimizing damage to the vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor array configured to detect an explosion by sensing, at different heights within a base of the vehicle, mechanical deformation of the base of the vehicle caused by the explosion
Implementation Method 2
control circuitry configured to respond to detection of the explosion by causing a groundwards force to be applied to the vehicle that depends upon inputs, characterising the explosion, provided by the sensor array
Data Source
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AI summary
A vehicle and a sensor for use in the vehicle is disclosed. The vehicle comprises: a sensor array configured to detect an explosion by sensing, at different heights within a base of the vehicle, mechanical deformation of the base of the vehicle caused by the explosion; and control circuitry configured to respond to detection of the explosion by causing a groundwards force to be applied to the vehicle that depends upon inputs, characterising the explosion, provided by the sensor array. The sensor comprises: at least one support; a first frangible electrical connection, for conveying an electrical signal, held by the at least one support at a first height and configured to enable a force to be detected via breakage of the first frangible electrical connection; and a second frangible electrical connection, for conveying an electrical signal, held by the at least one support at a second height different from the first height and configured to enable a force to be detected via breakage of the second frangible electrical connection.