Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
2~2~33
TRANSPORT UNIT FOR FLUID OR SOLID M~TERIAI,S
OR DEVICES, aND NEmOD
This invention concerns the means and method for
transporting fluid or solid materials such as fire-
5 Eighting materials or explosives, or devices such asbreaching lines, and particularly concerns the transport
of fluids such as chemical spill neutralizers, fire
extinguishing materials, or explosive materials as gases,
liquids, aqueous or organic solutions, suspensions,
10 slurries or the like, or the transport of breaching lines
for safety or construction equipment or the like to sites
which are either extremely hazardous, e.g., chemical
fires, or to sites which are substantially inaccessible
by conventional equipment such as ladders, rope, cable or
15 hoses which typically must be hand carried to the site.
Exemplary OI such difficult sites are buildings
or other areas where a fire or toxic chemical spill is in
dangerous proportions, and thus substantially
inaccessible. Such circumstances and the special
20 equipment used therefor are shown in U.s. Patents:
4,625,808; 4,219,084; 4,147,216; 2,857,005; and
4,124,077. In these prior art devices, a penetrating
nozzle is typically employed by forcing it against and
through a wall or, e.g., the skin of burning aircraft,
25 and fire extinguishing material then fed therethrough
from a canister or through a hose affixed to the nozzle.
In order to penetrate the wall or aircraft skin the
nozzle is physically carried to the site and forced
therethrough by an operator, either manually or by a boom
30 mounted on a truck. It is readily apparent that such
penetrating nozzle devices are undesirable from the
standpoint of requiring hands on operation at the site.
In another U.S~ the patent 4,696,347 the extinguishing
chemical is encapsulated in plastic missiles which are
35 propelled to the site by compressed gas. Such missiles
are of extremely limited utility, particularly from the
standpoint of not being able to penetrate a wall, window
2~L2~L~3
or the like, and also as being of limit~d fluid carrying
capacity. Other problems are a].so inherent in the
application of these priox concepts.
Particularly inaccessible sites are those where
S explosive materials or devices such as land mines or
other unexploded military hardware are present. For
these situations somewhat extreme and often uncertain
measures have previously been taken to explode such
hardware, including firing explosive shells into a mined
area usually in a less than coordinated manner or the use
; of rockets or catapult launched lines of explosives
across the area. These have proven to be ineffective,
inaccurate and unsafe.
Qbjects of the present invention therefore are
to provide a means and method for transporting large
quantities, practically unlimited amounts, of fire
; fighting or other chemicals or mechanical devices to
remote emergency sites which are essentially inaccessible
to humans due to the structure or location of the site or
the fire, or chemical or other hazards involved
therewith, and to provide such means and methods which
are safe and convenient to use.
Another object is to provide an accurate and
safe means and method for transporting explosive
materials to a hazardous location such as a mine field
wherein the transportation can be of explosive material
per se in the form of a cord-like explosive device, or of
a hose device through which liquid or slurry of explosive
materials may be fed after the hose has been propelled to
the desired location.
A further object is to provide a means and
method for the remote or stand-off delivery of gases,
chemicals, explosives, anchoring devices, retrievable
devices and equipment, safety devices, terrain breaching
devices, emergency supplies, or the like, wherein the
;~Q~ 3
-- 3 --
delivery power is derived from compressed, nonexplosive,
nonhazardous gas.
A further object is to provide the aforesaid
means as a semi of fully, self contained man portable
unit of lightweight construction and manually operable
from a shoulder-held or ground anchored position.
These and other objects :herainafter appearing
. have been attained in accordance with the present
invention as recited in broad and specific embodiments
~0 below, through the discovery which is defined in its
broad sense as a transport unit or launcher for gases,
fluids, solids, or mechanical devices or equipment,
comprising projectile launching means, projecting means
adaptad for positioniny in said launching means, line
means adapted for connection at a distal portion to said
projectile means and adapted for connection at a proximal
portion t~ said launching means, said launching means
having a compressed gas chamber adapted to provide
launching force to said projectile means upon actuation
of said launching means.
. In a more specific embodiment, the invention is
defined as a fluid or solid transport unit comprising
projectiIe launching means, projectile means adapted for
positioning in said launching means, hose or line means
connected at one end to said projectile means and adapted
for connection at its other end to a pressurized fluid
source, said launching means having a compressed gas
chamber adapted to provide launching force to said
projectile means upon actuation of said launching means A
In certain more specific and preferred
embodiments:
a) said launching means comprises tank means
providing said compressed gas chamber, and projectile
barrel means mounted on said tank means thereon in fluid
communication with the interior thereof;
.
2~ 4~33
- 4 -
b) a trailing portion of said line means
proximate its said other end is removably connected to
tether means contained within said tank means, and
braking means is provided within said tank means for
engaging said trailing portion for decelerating said hose
means proximate the limit of its extension;
c) said braking means comprises stationary
. guide means mounted in said tank means adjacent to and
substantially in aliynment with the bore of said barrel
- 10means, the said other end of said hose means being
substantially fixed in position within said tank means,
movable guide means mounted in said tank means in a
position non-aligned with said bore, motion resistance
means mounted in said tank means engaging said movable
15guide means and adapted to progressively increase the
resistance to motion thereof in proportion to the extent
of motion thereof toward alignment with said bore, said
hose means forcibly engaging said stationary and said
movable guide means during said deceleration and tending
20to move said guide means toward alignment with said bore;
d) said line means comprises explosive cord
means connected to said launching means through a
~ nonexplosive tether means of sufficient length to allow
;~ the proximal portion of said cord means to clear said
: 25barrel means a safe distance upon actuation of said
: launching means; and
e) said braking means comprises a fluid
actuated cylinder and piston, the proximal portion of
said line means being connected to one of said piston or
30cylinder, the other of said piston or cylinder being
af*ixed to said launching means, and valve means in said
cylinder to allow gas flow thereinto and therefrom at a
regulated rate to provide a desired decelerating force to
; said line means.
~0~ 3
- 5 -
The invention will be further understood from
the following drawings and description thereof wherein
certain dimensions of parts ars exaggerated for purposes
of clarity:
Fig. 1 is a longitudinal top, elevation view of
the present device;
Fig. 2 is a side, elevational view of the
present device;
Fig. 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view
taken along the line 3-3 of Fig. 2 in the direction of
the arrows;
Fig. 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of
a braking segment taken along line 4-4 of Fig. 3 in the
direction of the arrows;
Fig. 5 is an isometric view of a braking
segment;
Fig. 6 is an isometric view of a complete
braking means assembly showing its spatial relationship
to the launcher barrel;
Fig. 7 is a side view of the end cap and firing
mechanism mounted on the barrel end;
` Fig. 8 is an end view of the barrel with the cap
and lock means in place, and also showing the general
outline of the pressure tank;
Fig. 9 is a view of a tension spring variation
of the braking means;
Fig. 10 is a view of a compression spring
Yariation of the braking means;
Fig. 11 is a side elevational view of a hose
back-up preventing lock;
Fig. 12 is a side elevation of a manually
transportable and operable embodiment of the pxesent
transport unit;
Fig. 12A is an enlarged fragmentary sectional
view of the area bounded by circle 12A shown in Fig. 12;
- 6 - ~ 3
Fig. 12B is an enlarged fragmentary sectional
view of the area bounded by circle 12B shown in Fig. 12;
Fig. 12C is an enlarged fragmentary sectional
view of the area bounded by circle :l2C shown in Fig. 12;
5Fig. 13 is a longitudinal, partially cross-
sectional view of trolley line anchor embodiment of the
present projectile adapted for securing a line pulley
mechanism to the projectile landing site;
Fig. 13A is an enlarged fragmentary sectional
10view of the area bounded by the circle 13A shown in Fig.
13;
Fig. 14 is a front view of the projectile of
Fig. 13 with portions shown in cross-section for detail;
Fig. ~5 is a rear elevational view of the
15projectile of Fig. 13;
~ig. 16 is a plan view of the retainer plate and
pulley assembly;
Fig. 17 is a side or edge view of the assembly
of Fig. 16 with portions shown in cross-section;
20Fig. 18 is a partially cross-sectional view of a
disassembleable variation of the retainer plate and
:: pulley assembly;
: Fig. 19 is a side or edge view of the assembly
~ of ~ig. 18;
: 25Fig. 20:is an enlarged cross~sectional view of
the bleed valve, air brake of the unit of ~ig. 12;
: Fig. 21 is an end view of the barrel of the unit
o~ Fig. 12 showing the firing cap and retaining elements;
Fig. 22 is a side view of the firing end of the
30barrel, partially in section showing and exemplary
overcentering, safety retaining mechanism for the firing
cap;
Fig. 23 is a ~ross-sectional side view of an
embodiment of the present transport unit provided with a
35combination tether retracting device and line braking
: system;
201~2~83
-- 7
Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view taken along
line 2~-24 of Fig. 23 in the direction of the arrows and
showing the reel drum and hydraullc braking mechanism
; thereof, with the line near its full extension;
Fig. 25 is an end view of Fig. 24 taken in the
direction of the arrow; and
Fig. 26 is a variation of the embodiment of Fig.
13 provided with openable grappling prongs.
Referring to Figs. 1-11 of the drawings, the
transport device or launcher generally designated 10
consists of a projectile launching means comprised of a
pressure vessel or tank 12 of any desired shape such as
generally elliptical as shown, and a barrel 14 welded or
otherwise affixed to the tank wall such as by a threaded
connection or by a sealable, quick disconnect type
coupling, and opening into the tank. A projectile 16 is
constructed to slidably fit within the barrel and is
preferably, but not necessarily, provided with sealing
rings such as felt or leather rings 18 or the like which
seal against the barrel bore and substantially prevent
pressurized gas from by-passing the projectile during
launching. A distal portion o hose or other line 19 of
suitable composition and flexibility is designed to be
affixed to the projectile, and the line packed in any
convenient manner in the hollow trailing end 20 of the
projectile such that the hose will readily uncoil or
unravel and extend a~ the projectile is propelled from
the barrel and while in flight to the fire or other
emergency site.
A braking means is provided to forcibly engage
the line or at a proximal portion thereof as the line
nears the end of its full ext~nsion to decelerate the
projectile at a rate such that its momentum will not snap
the line or jerk it from its connections 22 or 24 to the
projectile or to the emergency fluid source,
respectively. The type of frictional braking means shown
- 8 - ~~ 3
in Figs. 1-6 generally as 26 around which the line is
looped is preferrad in that it provides deceleration and
then dead-stop of the line, without any retraction
thereof.
The pressure tank 12 and barrel 14 are designed
to hold pressures of up to several thousand psi, e.g.,
5,000 psi or more, however, for many, non-military uses,
the launcher typically need only be pressurized to about
20-40 psi to propel the projectile and the necessary
footage of line to the target site. In thîs regard it is
usually necessary to employ no more than about 400 f~et
of, e.g., 0.5 - 0.75 in. I.D. hose to reach most
emergency sites in safety though this patent includes
firing of such projectile means much further than that.
The pressurization of the tank through inlet 28 is
conveniently done with air, although nitrogen, carbon
dioxide, helium or the like may be used.
The end of the barrel is provided with a cap 30,
preferably provided with an annular elastomeric sealing
ring 32 or an equivalent seal, which cap is held securely
- in its sealing position preferably by fingers 3~
pivotally mounted on pins 35 press fitted into brackets
37, which brackets are welded to sleeve 39 affixed to the
end of the barral, e.g., by press-fit. In actuating or
firing the launcher, fingers 34 are rapidly and forcibly
pivoted out of the way of the cap as described in greater
detail below to exit the projectile. In a preferred
embodiment, suitable conduit means such as 36 forms a
fluid connecting between the tanX and pre-exit cell 38 of
the barrel such that the pressures on each end of the
projectile are equalized prior to firing. ~his allows
the projectile to be positioned well away from the. cap,
thereby reducing the possibility of the projectile
striking the cap on firing. Also, khe pressure in cell
38 will rapidly fling the unlocked cap downwardly and
away from the projectile trajectory by way of arms 40
ZCI~:4~3
g
pivotally connected to the cap by pin 42 and brackets 43
welded to the cap, and to the barrel by pin 44 and
bracket 45 welded to the barrel.
The present launching device and its operation
have been described above in general terms, and a more
detailed description of its components follows. The tank
12 is preferably comprised of steel press formed end
domes 46 and 48, and rolled, welded steel middle section
50. Bolt flanyes 52 are welded to the domes and flanges
54 are welded to the middle section. These flanges are
adapted to be secured together by bolts 56, pre~erably
with a thin, pressure sealing gasket 5~ therebetween to
form a gas tight pressure vessel. Either or both domes
may be hinged by any convenient type of hinge such as
shown at 60 to facilitate resetting or maintenance of the
braking device or other components, especially where the
launcher is of large and heavy construction. For this
purpose a handle such as 62 may be provided on either or
both of the domes to make it easier to rotate them to
their closed positions wherein the bolt holes in the
~; flanges are aligned.
The launcher 10 is preferably mounted on a
substantially horizontally rotatable platform 64 on the
flat bed of a truck or the like and typically, for
relatively contained chemical spills or fires, will be
about four feet long and about three ~eet in diameter
across the middle section, and, along with the barrel,
hose and braking means will weigh about 500 pounds.
Obviously, larger or smaller units can be employed for
special situations. The tank is preferably also provided
with pivotal mounts comprising brackets 66 on the
launcher pivotally connected to brackets 68 on the
platform 64. A ratchet turnbuckle 70 is pivotally
connected at one end to a bracket 72 on the platform and
at its other end to a bracket 74 on the tank such that
the elevation of the barrel can be adjusted with respect
2~2~
-- 10 --
to the target. A stop such as 75 may be provided to
limit the downward rotation of the launcher. It is noted
that it is not Applicants' intention here to specify or
limit in any way the type or complexity of the aiming and
firing control mechanism ~or the launcher, and the
rotatable platform 64 and turnbuckle 70 are only
representative of a rudimentary control mechanism which
may be employed. For example, any of the highly
sophisticated computer controlled, electronically
actuable hydraulic devices employed for aiming and firing
military weapons may be used to aim the launcher at the
emerqency slte, including laser guided aiming devices.
The braking means generally designated 26 in
Figs. 1-6 comprises base plate 76 and a plurality of
movable guides 78, 80, 82, 84, 86 mounted between the
base plate and a plurality o~ motion resisting, friction
elements 88, 90, 92, 94, 96 respectively. The guides are
preferably roller shaped but may be of other shapes
provided the surfaces thereof which contacts the hose are
smooth and non-ahrading thereto. In the embodiment
shown, one end of each guide roller rests on the base
plate 76 and the other end lies adjacent the inner or
underside 98 of a friction element. These elements
preferably have a channel shaped cross-section as shown
in Figs. 4 and 5, wherein, with respect to an exemplary
element 96 the roller 86 is slidably and rotatably
positioned between the flanges 100 and 102. These
elements are pivotally mounted at one end 104 by pin 106
secured in supports 108 and 110 welded or otherwise
affixed to base plate 76. A threaded stud 112 affixed to
base plate 76 extends through the other end 114 of the
element 96 and is provided with a wing-nut 116 and
compression spring 118 for adiusting the distance between
the element and base and thus the frictional resistance
to motion of roller ~6 toward end 114 of the element. In
this regard, with such a brake, the heavier the spring
~2~8~
:
118 and the closer the element end 114 is brought
initially to the base plate 76, the more frictional
resistance to motion of roller 86 there will be and the
more rapid will be the deceleration of the line. It is
noted that while the rollsr may initially rotate as
deceleration begins, it is quil:e likely that the
frictional forces against its ends will stop its rotation
and allow only linear translation thereof toward end 114
such that sliding of the line across the roller surface
~; 10 will occur. The actual braking forces on the trailing or
proximal portions of the line are complex and in addition
to the frictional resistance imparted by the elements
described above, will include certain mechanical
advantages and vectors developed by translation of the
rollers toward alignment.
Referring to Fig. 9, the braking means may
comprise one or more tension springs such as 120 mounted
in the tank, attached at one end 122 to the tank and
attached to or engaging the line at its other end 124.
The deceleration of the hose simply results from
resistance of the spring to extension as the line
attempts to straighten out. The strength and size of the
spring, the dimensions of the loop 126 of the line, and
the points of attachment of the spring can be adjusted to
give the desired deceleration.
Referring to Fig. 10, the braking means may
comprise a compression spring 128 compressible between
bracket 130 affixed to the interior of the tank, and
retainer 132 affixed by mechanical or adhesive attaching
means to the line as at 134. The line is looped at 136
in an equivalent manner and purpose as loop 126. Again,
the strength and size of the spring and the size and
location of the loop may be adjusted to provide the
proper deceleration.
, . - , ' ,'
i2~83
- 12 -
It is noted that the braking means o~ Figs. g
and 10 will tend to retract the projectile to a small
extent, however, various hose return prevention means are
known to the art and can be employed to prevent such
retraction. One such device is shown in Fig. 11 and
comprises arms 138 and 140 mounted for pivoting on pins
; 142 secured to a bracket 144 mounted within the tank.
Thase arms readily pivot outwardly and allow the line 19
to be yanked toward the target, but when spring or other
force tends to retract the line back toward the tank, the
arms pivot inwardly and clamp onto the line to stop its
retraction.
The projectile 16 may be widely varied in shape
but preferably is constructed or formed as a steel shell
generally designated 145 having a penetrating head
portion 146 and rearward cylindrical portion 148. A hose
or line connector plate 150 is welded into the shell and
communicates through aperture 151 wi~h a plenum 152
provided with a plurality of fluid outlet ports 153
spaced peripherally around the shell and of proper size
and number to provide adequate emergency fluid flow,
spray, jet, foam, or other pattern to the site. The line
19 is connected, at one end 22, e.g., by a conventional
pressure line, tapered threaded connector 15~ into
aperture 151, and at its other and 24 by equivalent means
to a source of emergency fluid such as employed for fire
fighting or for treating chemical spills. Any
appropriate valving means may be employed for
pressurizing the hose and emitting the emergency ~luid
through ports 153, preferably just as the projectile
reaches its target. The head portion 146 may be hollow
or weighted, depending on the type of obstruction th~
- projectile must penetrate, if any. Also, the projectile
may be provided with fins or the like in known manner to
impart rotation thereto or otherwise for stabilizing its
trajectory.
- ~3 ~ 83
Referring to the drawings, particularly to Figs.
7 and 8, the barrel cap 30 is locked by or released from
fingers 34 by means of ring 156 longitudinally slidable
on sleeve 39 and pivotally connected to the fingers by
links 158 and pins 159. Ring 156 operates to release the
; fingers as it is pulled (to the left in Fig. 7) by means
such as double acting air or hydraulic cylinders 160 or
equivalent solenoid devices mounted preferably on
opposite sides of the sleeve 39 or barrel. Likewise,
fluid pressure on the opposite side of the piston of
~ cylinder 160 forces the ring 156 to the right in Fig. 7
; and levers the fingers clockwise about their pivot pints
35 to force and lock the cap against the barrel end to
seal the same.
The signal or operation which actuates cylinders
160, or an equivalent power mechanism, to release the cap
and fire the projectile can derive from remote control,
manual activation, computer controlled means, or the
like. It is noted that when the fingers 34 are released,
the cap will fling outwardly and downwardly around pivot
pin 44 with substantial force and could possibly rebound
off the barrel or a stop such as 161 shown in Fig~ 2,
back into the projectile. In order to positively prevent
such from occurring a segment 162 shown in Fig. 7 is
provided on the arm 40, and a catch generally designated
164 is provided on the barrel or sleeve 39. This catch
comprises a latch member 166 pivotally mounted by pin
168, e.g., in a channel 170 welded to the barrel or
sleeve, and urged outwardly as shown by a spring 172
affixed in the channel. As shown by the dotted line
segment portion in Fig. 7, the end 174 of segment 162
will be thrown in an arc against member 166 and force it
to pivot inwardly against the spring 172 as the cap is
flung downwardly. End 174 will then become latched
behind the shoulder 176 of the latch member as spring 172
14 2(~ 4~33
instantly forces the member pivotally outwardly after end
174 passes beyond it.
The above defined launcher in more specific
terms and a preferred embodiment comprises a compressed
air mortar capable of propelling at 20 psi launch
pressure a 201b. steel projectile with line attached
through two "re-bar" reinforced block walls form a
distance of 100 ft. with extreme accuracy and a range of
between about 1,000 and 3,000 ft. This device, in
certain preferred embodiments, is comprised of the
following components and materials:
(1) A hydraulic tube steel barrel 4 to 5 ft. in
length and 8 to 10 inches I.D., using standard hydraulic
tubing for high performance with reliability over long
periods of time;
(2) An air accumulator or compressed air tank
of approximately 32 inches by 28 inches internal end cap
area, or larger. The overall wall length of the
accumulator from end cap to end cap is at least about 40
inches of high strength rolled steel, the wall and end
caps being approved for high pressure vessels. The end
cap seals are seated in grooves and are standard off-the
shelf items comprised of no" ring material of neoprene
rubber with an I.D. of 1/4 inch;
(3) The internal inertial breaking system is
comprised of cold rolled steel guides and rollers, thus
assuring malleability and ease of machine tooling. The
rollers positioned on opposite sides provide opposite
inertial loading. The entire breaking system mounts on a
single mounting bracket allowing for easy installation
and maintenance;
(4) The air compressor may be either gas or
electrically operated producing 17.5 CFM and having a 30
gal. compression tank rated at 250 PSl. An alternative
source of force to propel the projectile with enhanced
speed of firing and/or more silent operation is non-
21~2~83
- 15 -
toxic, non-polluting, pre-compressed dry nitrogen
available from standard industrial gas bottles;
(5) The pneumatic operated triggering device
located at the muzzle, for ease of operation can be
activated by the press of a button, thereby releasing the
compressed air in the barrel, causing an arterial
(vacuum) effect launching the projectile through the
barrel in such a fashion that it causes an initial
acceleration of the projectile in excess of about 125
mph/sec. Additional force created by the pressure from
the accumulation chamber behind the projectile in the
barrel provides containing momentum to accurately propel
the projectile and line in a relatively flat trajectory
to the point desired. This triggering device employs a
clapper type valve with a valve seal of multi-layered
neoprene rubber with high strength inner core of
reinforced fiberglass. This type of seal was chosen for
its ability to maintain memory, extreme high pressure,
and its unique capability to survive extreme changes in
temperatures; and
(6) A control panel houses all pneumatic and
electrical controls and is a steel plated, water-tight
cabinet with one way vent protection which allows
moisture and air to escape while still protecting the
control panel from outside contaminants. All electrical
connections are industrially hardened to assure
reliability and durability. Air gauges are oil-filled,
allowing for accuracy and durability and are resistant to
shock and vibration. The control panel has multiple
inputs and outputs for pressurizing the accumulation
chamber and/or barrel and/or ~or fluid pumping. The
electrical source for the control panel is both a 12 volt
subsystem generator and an auxiliary battery. All
switches are color coded plastic buttons and large
plastic tags are affixed to the control panels around
control switches for ease of identification. All
,
,
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- 16 -
pneumatic hoses are double reinforced hydraulic hoses
which meet or surpass all reguire operating pressure
ratinys.
The projectile i5 a container designed to carry
the line across the area it is desired to breech, clear,
or traverse, and is comprised of the following structure
and materials:
(1) A bullet shaped body made of steel, molded
fiberglass or injected plastic or composites which forms
a tight fit with the internal measurements of the barrel
of and is approximately 27 to 36 inches long;
(2) A hollow nose cone capable of being filled
with heavy material to add mass to the projectile if and
where needed; and
(3) A connector joining the line securely to
the inside of the nose of the projectile.
The hose is comprised of 6 to 14 mil. mylar
plastic, extruded or sealed in continuous rolls of
whatever length may be necessary not to exceed about
1,050 to about 3,050 ft. and is pre-packed in the
projectile for whatever distance of firing is desired as
set forth above.
The explosives which may be used are line
charges comprised of hoses or tubes filled with a liquid
binary slurry such as IRECO's DB~ 105p slurry which is
configured so that the two non-explosive components are
stored separately, and not mixed into an explosive
mixture until they are being pumped into the hose. Since
these explosives require a minimum 2 inches diameter mass
to critical explosive sensitivity, they can be pumped
through the launcher or externably thereof by means,
e.g., of a 1 inch line delivery hose from a point safely
away from the explosive line change to a point where the
critical mass 2 inch hose or tube begins. Pumping of
explosives of each 1,000 feet can be accomplished every 2
minutes. When a 2 inch (I.D.) hose or tube is filled
,. ~ ~, . . .
2~1L2~83
- 17 -
with the slurry explosive, its weight is approximately
2.5 lbs/t.
An alternative explosive line charge that may be
used is the plastic "DetasheetN variety produced in 1
inch diameters by DuPont and also pre packed in the
projectile for distances of up to 1~000 ft, or a foam
explosive dis through sprayer-soaker type hoses.
The explosive line charge is able to detonate
and/or deactivate normal anti-personnel mines of the pmn
and pmf ~arieties out to about 44 ft. from the point of
the line charge, for the entire length thereof.
A typical system for delivering the explosives
includes a "pumper mixer" unit connected to a storage
facility for both the liquid and the solid components of
the binary slurry and connected to the filing hose either
through the launcher directly, or separately from the
launcher as desired, and may be either internally
contained with the launcher or supplied by a trailer or
auxiliary vehicle. The Dupont C5 plastic "Detasheet"
produced in 1 inch diameters may be housed in the
projectile as it is quite insensitive unless
intentionally detonated or actually hit by, e.g., a 20
mm. shell or burned with an acetylene torch.
Typical hoses to be used for fire fighting,
e~g., are lN to 1 1/2" to 2" diameter, single jacket,
500PSI test, lightweight forestry type hose constructed
of abrasion resistant high strength synthetic yarn with a
designed liner that allows controlled seepage of fluid,
under pressure, to the surface of the jacket. This self
protecting feature shields the hose from the effects of
heat.
Another such fire hose is comprised of
cotton/polyester, single jacket, 450 PSI test. This hose
is a rugged forestry type 1" to 1 1/2" diameter with a
synthetic, ozone resistant, non-acid forming, extruded
rubber lining, of lightweight construction for use with
.::
Z~83
- 18 -
pumpers and tanks, furnished with clear mildew treatment
and will not tear under rough usage. This hose is
typically used to tether within the braking system.
Typical specifications for a Mylar hose useful
for transporting explosives is as ~ollows:
Dimensions: 1" ID, 2" ID ancl 3" ID;
Tube: Single ply DuPont mylzLr type UA";
Wall thickness: qO075 to .012 inches;
Reinforcement: None;
Cover: None;
Pressure: Maximum working: 150 PSI;
Temperature range: -70 to +150 degrees
fahrenheit;
Length: Up to 3000 feet;
This hose is useful in a system deployment
utilizing Ireco DBA 105P slurry explosive, and
of Mrel Lexfoam explosive.
The fire extinguishants which are used vary
according to the class of fire. For classes A, B, and C
fires NAF type is preferred. For the same classes and
for D type fires and for hazardous spills, a number of
compounds from I-TECH are employed. The NAF is a new
extinguishant in the vaporizing liquid class and is
described as a Composite Advanced Halon. NAF has a
varible specification due to the fact it can be altered
to suit particular operational conditions worldwide. The
material used in a tropical climate could differ from in
; a temperate zone and when used in a small hand operated
extinguisher it would differ from that used in total
flooding systems or for pumping such as with the present
device. The specifications for European manufacture are
gi~en below:
~ Appearance Water white liquid
; Specific Gravity 1.48 + 0.01
Boiling Point 14 Centigrade
Pressure at Bar ~ 20 Deg. Centigrade 15.5 psig
2~i12~83
-- 19 --
Solubility Water, max 0.1 weight %
at 26 Deg. Centigrade &
1 Bar. Soluble in
alcohols, Hydrocarbons,
ancl chlorinated
solvents.
Typical design and operating specifications for
the present transport unit for fire-fighting are as
follows:
Range 125 feet
Nozzle Diameter: 8"
Hose I.D. 5/8"
Propulsive Force: Compressed Air
Launch Pressure: 60 PSI
Brake: Inertial ~riction
Extinyuishant Volume: 2.0 cubic feet
Extinguishant Pressure: To 300 PSI
A manual mortar or manually transportable and
deployable transport unit embodiment is described below
and comprises a tactical hand-held, compressed air
operated line launcher which launches a projectile that
may or may not carry any form of line including a
Detcord, Deta Sheet or other form of explosive line
charge grappling hooks, pulley systems, hoses for
dispersing fire suppressants and other chemical agents,
and other items over substantial distances with great
accuracy. It has, preferably, an overall length of less
than ahout five and one-half feet, a barrel diameter of
approximately eight inches of fiberglass or molded
plastic composites or reinforced light metals, a total
width of less than about twenty-four inches, and weighs
less than about thirty pounds, not including the weight
of the explosive line charge. The launcher operatas on
stored compressed air or air compressed by a hand or foot
operated pump at relatively low pressures and medium
volumes depending upon the range and force desired.
'
,
2012~B3
- 20 -
By comparison, the device of Figs. 1 11
generally is used as a vehicle mounted, compressed air-
operated, 200 mm. launcher capable of launching heavy
lines and materials sufh as explosive line charges,
grappling hooks, pulley systems, hoses for dispersing
fire suppressants and other chemical agents, and other
items over substantial distances with great accuracy.
The manual mortar is provided with an openable
breech that is screwed or otherwise attached to the end
of the barrel so as to create an air tight seal when
closed. When opened, a projectile that will form a close
fit with the inside of the barrel can be inserted into
the réar portion thereof to a point not more than about
four feet from the front or muzzle end of the barrel.
The projectile typically includes a line to be fastened
to a tether line inside of the breach and connected to
with an inertial braking system to stop the projectile in
mid flight at exactly the point where it is desired to be
stopped and which may be attached either to a line,
pulley system or similar device inside the projectile, or
to a hose or line charge which may be folded or rolled
inside the diameter projectile.
The projectile may weigh an~where from 5 to 50
lbs. depending upon its construction and/or purpose, and
feeds the line it is carrying out of its trailing end as
it is propelled through the air. Generally, the
propelling pressures will vary from about 25 to about
5,000 psi. When the projectile reaches the end of the
line which is of preadjusted length, it will be stopped
by the inertial braking system in the launcher and stop
at a predetermined point in mid-air. At that point it
will either set off the line charge that it is pulling,
at whatever altitude may be desired, or it will fall to
the ground or through or against a wall as desired, with
whatever type of line it has been carrying. It may also
be used to launch smart projectiles. If a grappling type.
2i~ 83
- 21 -
hook type projectile is used it will hook into the ground
or wall and allow a heavy line charge or other device or
larger line to be pulled across the area or void
traversed by the projectile.
The muzzle or front end of the barrel is
provided with a firing or trigger cap which is activated
by pulling a firing pin or the like and which, until
fired maintains the desired air pressure in an
accumulator in the brsach and in the barrel both in front
of and behind the projectile. When the firing pin is
pulled the cap is blown by the compressed air in front of
the projectile off the barrel ahead of the projectile and
; releases the stored energy of the compressed air thus
carrying the projectil~ with the necessary force to
complete its mission. Projectiles with 8n diameters,
weighing up to 42 lbs. and carrying 200+ feet of hose
have been fired from a four foot barrel on the vehicle
mounted version at 40 psi for ranges of 200f feet with
great accuracy. This mortar may be carried loaded and
charged, or may be loaded and charged immediately before
firing.
- Referring to ~igs. 12 and 20-22, this manually
transportable and operable embodiment of the launcher is
shown and comprises, in a typical, exemplary embodiment,
a breech genexally designated 234, a barrel generally
designated 236, and a firing or end cap 238. The breech
comprises a gas pack cavity 240 and a gas accumulator
cavity 242. This breech is preferably of steel and
capable of;withstanding 4500 internal psi or greater.
The two cavities are adapted to be interconnected by
conduit means such as passage 24~ in which a gas pressure
regulator and shut-off valve generally designated 246 is
positio~ed. The barrel 236 is provided on its proximal
end 248 with an annular shoulder 250 on which is
rotatably mounted a threaded nut 252. An annular
threaded projection 254 on the breech front 256 matingly
2~ 33
- 22 -
receives nut 252. These threads may be of any pitch,
preferably of a quick disconnect type such a~ Haliburton
threads. An O-ring or equivalent type annular seal 258
is interposed between the proximal end of the barrsl and
an annular shoulder 260 on the breech front to provide a
gas-tight connecting seal between the barrel bore 262 and
the accumulator cavi~y 242 capable of sealing pressures
of 4500 psi or higher.
A gas pack or cylinder 264 is provided at its
discharge end 266 with suitable valving such as a spring
biased ball 268 and annular seal 270. End 266 is
threaded for screwing into the breech body adjacent
passage 244. The breech body is provided with an
actuator nib 268 positioned with in the passage 244 on
bracket 270 and adapted to depress ball 268 against
spring 272 to load chamber 242 upon the opening of valve
246. Pack 264 is provided with grip segments 274 for
facilitating the screw connecting and disconnecting of
the pack and breech.
Positioned on the launcher, preferably within
accumulator chamber 242 is a dashpot type braking means
generally designated 275 comprising a cylinder 276 having
- a bore 278, a piston 280, and a piston rod 282. The
piston is preferably provided with an O ring or
equivalent type seal 28~ Por preventing blow-by at the
cylinder wall 286, and the piston rod sealingly slides
through a similar seal 288 mounted in the apertured end
290 of the cylinder. The other end of the cylinder bore
is provided with an elastomeric seal 292 surrounding the
port 294 of a bleed passage or conduit 296 in which is
threadedly mounted a bleed control needle valve or
equivalent 298. A gas pressure relief port 300 is
provided through piston head 280. A gas pressurizing,
one-way valve 302 is provided on the cylinder and
comprises a gas inlet fitting 304 to which can be
attached an inlet tube 306 which may be connected into a
- 23 - 2~2~83
pressurized gas source external to the accumulation
chamber. Alternatively, the valve 302 may communicate
directly with the accumulation chamber for pressurizing
the cylinder. This valve is provided with a one-way
opening valve member such as metal spring leaf 308
af~ixed to the valve body by screw 310. The dotted lines
show the open, resiliently flexed position of spring leaf
308, when gas is flowing into the cylinder bore through
ports 312 and 314. The exposed end of the piston rod is
connected to the projectile line or a tether 316 attached
to the line.
In the operation of this braking means r bore 278
is pressurized a desired degree, e.g., 1000 psi.,
directly from the accumulator chamber and valve 298 is
adjusted to provide a desired bleed gas flow from said
bore through port 300 and conduit 296. It is noted that
for certain braking requirements, valve 298 would be
unnecessary since port 300 could provide the necessary
pressure drop across the piston. with port 300 isolated
by seal 292 from conduit 296, the brake is ready for use.
It is noted that the flow areas and conduit 296 can also
be selected to give the proper braking action.
Re~erring to Figs. 21 and 22, the firing cap 238
is dome shaped having an annular stop shoulder 318 for
abutting the end o~ barrel 236, and an inner sleeve
section 320 for tightly sealing against O-ring or other
equivalent seals provided suitable annular grooves in the
barrel bore end. It is noted that the sealing is
enhanced by slightly inwardly tapering toward the breech
end said segment and said bore end.
Cap 238 is provided with a retaining means of
any convenient construction, however, from the standpoint
of simplicity, ease of use, reliability and safety, the
retaining means shown in Figs. 21 and 22 is highly
pxeferred. This retainer comprises a plurality of strong
cables or stainless steel rods or the like 322, each
2~33
- 24 -
provided on one end with a loop 324, and linked on its
other end to a tensioning device, preferably an
overcentering latch generally designated 326 and
comprising in an illustrative embodiment a pair of spaced
supports 328, 330 welded or otherwise affixed to the
barrel and between which is a tensioning handle or lever
332 pivotally mounted on the supports by pin 334. Cable
322 is pivotally affixed to handle 332, by a link 336 or
other such means.
A pair of spaced projections 338 and 340 welded
or otherwise affixed to the cap slidably receive firing
pin 342 to which is attached a lanyard of cable or the
like 344. A tethering mechanism such as arm 40 shown in
Fig. 17, or a strong line such as 346 may be affixed as
shown to the cap and barrel for preventing loss of the
cap on firing.
In readying the launcher for firing in a typical
operation, air pack 264 pressured to about 4500 psi., is
screwed into place in chamber 240. A projectile 350
carryiny a packed line is inserted into the breech end of
the disassembled barrel, packed line affixed to the
breech. The firing cap 238 is set into the carrel end,
the loosened free ends of the cables 322 placed between
~ projections 338, 340 and firing pin 342 inserted through
: 25 the projections and loops 324 as shown in Fig. 21.
Levers 332 are then rotated downwardly to their
overcentered positions as shown in Fig. 22 and suitable
locking means such as pad locks 352 or equivalent safety
means inserted through aligned apertures in supports 328,
330 and lever 332. It is noted that the cap retaining
forces generated by levers 332 are quite high and
prevents premature, unintentional withdrawal of firing
pin 342. Valve 2~6 is then opened to bring the gas
pressure in accumulator chamber 242, in braking cylinder
- 35 276, and in the barrel forward of the projectile by way
of by-pass slot 354 in the barrel bore wall, to, e.g.,
2~L2fl~33
- 25 -
1000 psi as xegistered on a suitable pressure gauge 348
communicating with the accumulator chamber. The valve is
then shut off, the launcher aimed, and the lanyard 344
jerked ko extract the firing pin and release the cap and
projectile.
Referring to Figs. 13-19, trolley or pulley line
anchor type of projectile 180 is shown and is preferably
manufactured in three separate components, the tip 182,
the body 184, and the trolley line pack generally
designated 186, and is made preferably of steel and/or
fiberglass composite. The tip is replaceable or inter
changeable with other type tips by means of threaded stud
187 or equivalent means and the whole pro~ectile can be
salvaged, inspected and reused. It is typically made
with a 9 7/8 inch or 7 7/8 inch outside diameter and
lenyths of 22 or 25 inches. The body is machined or cast
with two l-inch wide by 1/16 inch deep grooves 188 around
the outside for leather or plastic or the like sliding
seals 190. The body inner wall l91 has two lengthwise
grooves 192, 194 into which the pedestal or pulley
retainer plate 196 of the trolley line pack is slidably
inserted. An annular yroove 198 is located in the body
inner wall at the back of the projectile for receiving a
retaining ring 200. ~his retaining ring and a plastic or
metal disc 202 holds the coiled or packed line in place
within the projectile for a sufficient distance from the
barrel to prevent entanglement thereof, particularly of
small line. Spaced apertures 204 r 206 through which the
half segments 208, 210 of the pulley line 211 loosely
feeds assists in preventing entanglement. The trolley
line pack is provided with a 2 1/2 inch diameter pulley
wheel 212 that is rotatably mounted on shaft 214 which
; may be press fitted in socket 216 in plate 196 which
divides the line 211 in halves. This dividing plate
allows for smooth and even release of the line when the
projectile is fired. Apertures 218 may be provided in
33
- 2~ -
plate 196 to allow it to be staked or tied any convenient
manner to the landing site.
This anchor projectile is designed to enable the
operator to attach heavy lines, to the tethered ends of
5the small line such that when the haavy line is pulled
through the pulley, heavy equipment can be transported to
the landing site.
Referring to Figs. 18 and 19, a variation of the
pulley arrangement is shown wherein the pulley wheel 212
10is mounted in a somewhat conventional type pulley body
220 such that it can be more conveniently disassembled
from the divider plate 222 which is basically the
equiYalént of plate 196. Upon removal and connected by
rope or cable or other means passed through aperture 218
15to a tree, rock or other terrestrial fixture. In this
embodiment bearing 220 is slidably fitted into cavity 224
in the projectile body 184, and is provided with a slot
226 slidably receiving the forward edge of plate 222. In
this manner since the plate is stabilized in grooves 192,
20194, the pulley is stabilized until plate 222 is removed.
The anchor type projectiles described above and
in Fig. 26 are designed to be loaded with enough
relatively light nylon or Kevlar line on each side of the
pulley retainer plate to reach across a mine field, for
25example, or to the exac.t distance desired by the party
clearing the area to be cleared. Each end of that line
is then attached to an anchor cable that is attached to
the braking system inside of the launcher so that at the
point where the projectile reaches the end of the line on
30both sides of the pulley, the projectile suspended
momentarily in mid-air, and then falls to the ground
exactly at the point predetermined by the operator firing
the projectile.
With reference to Fig. 26, as the anchor
35projectile leaves the barrel of the launcher, a plurality
of, spring loaded rods 228 preferably with barbs 320 at
2~
- 27 -
their ends spring out of grooves 232 cut into the outside
of the projectile casing. In their operative position
they form an angle a shown with the tail of the
projectile so that as the projectile hits the ground and
is pulled back slightly, one or more of the barbed rods
dig into the ground or become hung up on rocks or trees
in a fashion similar to an anchor on a ship or a
grappling hook, firmly securing the projectile at that
point so that the pulley system can then be utilized to
pull heavier line through the pulley, if desired or to
i~mediately transport equipment, explosive cord, or other
materials.
When using the pulley projectile for mine
clearing, while several different methods may be used,
one example is that the lines are fired across a field
and anchored. An extruded plastic explosive made in the
form of rods, strips, or rope such as "Detcord" can then
be pulled across the field to the projectile from a reel
that would be located separately from the truck carrying
the launcher until it is pulled close to the anchored
pro~ectile. Tension is maintained at all times on the
extruded explosive material being pulled across the ~ield
and on the pull line so as to keep both of them off of
the field to the greatest extent possible. After the
explosive material is pulled all the way across the
field, it and the pull line are staked down on the near
side to continue to keep tension on them and keep them
off the field until such time as they are ready to be
lowered into place for detonation. It is noted that the
rear of the anchored projectile will be several inches
above the ground when the line is under tension.
The same procedure is repeated at spaced points
along the entire length of the field. When all of the
cords have been put in place, they can be drawn tight and
lowered to a position approximately five inches above the
field where they would be staked and then joined together
- 28 -
by a detonating cord. When they are all tied together,
all of the explosives so laid across can be detonated at
a point about five inches above the ground setting off a
sufficient explosive force to detonate all of the mines
in the field~
Other uses for the same grappling hook-anchor
pulley system include: laying down defensive perimeters
around exposed military units; cutting lines through
concentena wire; clearing beaches ahead of landing craft;
getting rescue equipment to personnel stranded in
inaccessible area such as high rise buildings, cliff
faces, flooded streams, or the like; cutting power or
pipe lines or getting construction equipment across
impassible streams, rivers, gullies or canyons; and for
piercing building walls such that the hooks spring out
after passing therethrough and anchor the projectile
within the building such that hoses, equipment or the
like can be transported to the building.
The invention has been described in detail with
particular reference to preferred embodiments thereof,
but it will be understood that variations and
modifications will be effected within the spirit and
scope of the invention.
Referring to Figs. 23 and 24, a hydraulic
braking and tether retracting device generally designated
356 is shown to illustrate how a line packed projectile
can be attached to a permanent tether and loaded through
an attached barrel end. The device 356 is shown
installed in a launcher tank 12 such as shown in Fig. 1
and comprising a shell 358 having at least one sealed
chamber 360. This shell is welded or the like to
brackets 362, 364 welded to the tank wall. A shaft 366
is rotatably mounted through walls 368, 370, and 372 of
the shell and through end dome 46 of the launcher tank
12. A substantially flat paddle 374 is affixed in a slot
in the shaft by pins 376 or the like and is rotatable
- 29 ~ 2~8 3
with the shaft around chamber 360. A tether line 377 is
affixed to the shaft such that it is wound up thereon or
wound off as the shaft is rotated. Chamber 360 which is
of annular configuration such that as paddle 374 rotates
therearound the spacing of the edges of the paddle and
the walls of the chamber is maintained substantially
constant. The chamber is filled with any hydraulic
fluid such as automotive transmission fluid. Suitable
sealing means such as 0-ring seals 378 seal chamber 360
against fluid leakage and tank 12 against gas leakage.
The dimensions of this device, including the paddle
spacing can be varied as required to give the desired
braking effect. A removable cover plate 380 for chamber
360 secured by suitable bolts 361 or the like to walls
368l 370 and sealed by 363 provided access thereto for
paddle assembly and hydraulic fluid filling.
The exterior end 382 of shaft 366 can be affixed
to any suitable cranking means, manual or automatic for
; rewinding the tether line 362 thereon after attachment to
a repacked projectile line. In this manner, the repacked
projectile may be inserted into the barrel end and pushed
therein to a desired depth while the tether line is being
rewound on the shaft. In this manner, kinking or
tangling of the lines within the launcher are prevented.
Variations of such hydraulic braking device
include providing a fluid passage in shaft 366 such as
384 to which a fluid carrying line or tether 362 in the
forms of a strong, fluid carrying hose is connected for
receiving pressurized fluid such as fire extinguishant
from an external source connected to the exterior end of
the shaft and fluid passage by suitable coupling means.
In regard to other types of braking devices
which can be employed to give a desired deceleration
profile, included are the mechanical drum or disc typed
as employed on automobiles, or electrical type brakes as
used on auto towed trailers and the like. Such brakes
_ 30 _ ~ ~ 2~
can be manually or automatically controlled by electronic
sighting means which can visually determined when and
with what force the projectile should be decelerated.
The invention has been described in detail with
particular reference to preferred embodiments thereof,
but it will be understood that variations and
modifications will be effected within the spirit and
scope of the invention.
