Stand Alone Sensor for Air Bag and Restraint System Activation in an Underbody Blast Event
Abstract
Lack of a reliable blast sensor prevents timely activation of military vehicle occupant safety systems during underbody blasts. Automotive sensors are not suitable. Blast accelerations are larger and occur within shorter time spans. Underbody blasts require a sensor act within 0.5 milliseconds. A Magnetogasdynamics (MGD) sensor was demonstrated to act within 200 microseconds during a 10# TNT equivalent blast. Threshold requirements apply an internally powered sensor to armored personnel carrier type vehicles for timely device activation. The objective requirement uses kinetic energy contained in the blast to activate safety systems. The sensor has unlimited dynamic range, temperature insensitivity, and is survivable within an explosive fireball. Designed as a MGD Tesla rectangular linear motor generator channel with permanent magnets it collects electrons via a blast induced magnetic Alfven Power Wave. The very small sensor demonstrated harvest potential of 3 Kilowatts and a potentially several Ergs into a matched load. A modification to the sensor connects the ends of the magnets back on each other acting as a combination generator and transformer increasing the voltage and harvest potential to several tens of Kilowatts and Ergs. Harvested power will directly activate occupant safety system s gas generators and explosive actuators.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 07, 2014
- Accession Number
- ADA601200
Entities
People
- Ronald G. Lundgren