Abstract: A two piece, two-stage, rechargeable, reusable, reduced-energy mechanically operating cartridge is provided for launching a bullet of various compositions from a dedicated or modified firearm. The cartridge unit is comprised of a primary case, a piston sleeve, a propellant unit, and a bullet choice of a solid light weight material for inanimate-target applications or a “marking” version for non-lethal live-target training applications. Cartridge includes a piston sleeve and a primary case coupled together via a channel and cog locking/traveling/unlocking system. The primary case includes a substantially non-deformable jacket defining a cavity to receive a propellant unit or propellant connection and provides the channels to receive piston sleeves cogs for a locking/traveling/unlocking feature. The piston sleeve includes a substantially non-deformable jacket defining a cavity to receive configured bullet.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for neutralizing explosives and electronics utilizing a high voltage electrical discharge.

Abstract: An explosive matrix assembly is provided in which a single detonating cord is configured into a first set of at least five parallel sets of paired portions lying in the same plane, with adjacent parallel pairs being spaced about two inches apart. The detonating cord is further configured so that there is a second set of at least five more parallel portions that are substantially orthogonal to the first set and that lie on top of the first set. Finally, the detonating cord is further configured so that there is a pair of portions that operably secure the matrix to an appropriate explosive initiator.

Abstract: A device for triggering mines by pressure, including a chassis and at least one wheel having a central hub and including: at least one assembly that is movable in translation along a radius of the wheel and comprises a weight block at its peripheral radial end, a device suitable for driving the at least one movable assembly, as the wheel rotates in a determined direction with respect to the chassis, in the direction of the hub over a limited sector of the wheel that is less than 2? radians; wherein the device suitable for driving the at least one movable assembly in the direction of the hub are fixed with respect to the chassis, or in that the assembly that is movable in translation comprises a support that is fixed with respect to the chassis.

Abstract: An airborne plow is provided for destroying unwanted vegetation and for clearing mines which includes an elongated arm. A mechanism on the elongated arm is for engaging with the unwanted vegetation. Another mechanism is for suspending the elongated arm from the underside of a helicopter or a slow flying object. The helicopter can maneuver the elongated arm, so that the engaging mechanism can plow the unwanted vegetation, opium plant and the unwanted mines.

Abstract: Systems are described herein for remotely aligning and placing disruptive devices at or near suspicious targets such as suspected improvised explosive devices (IEDs). In particular, tools connected to remotely controllable robots include disruptor guns for firing disruptive materials at the targets and disruptive devices filled with explosive materials, e.g., water, for controllably detonating or disrupting the detonation of the targets when placed in close proximity thereto.

Abstract: A roller system including a frame, a plurality of arm assemblies configured to apply a force to a surface, each arm assembly including an arm pivotably connected to the frame and a roller assembly pivotably connected to the arm and having a plurality of rollers configured to engage with the surface, and a pressure distribution system configured to adjust the force applied to the surface by at least one of the plurality of arm assemblies.

Abstract: A mobile remotely controlled robot includes a robot platform and a robot arm maneuverable with respect to the robot platform. A housing is configured to be removably mounted to the robot arm. A sleeve is translatable with respect to the housing for receiving a weapon therein. There is a gear rack on the sleeve and a pinion gear, rotatably disposed in the housing, is engaged with the gear rack. A braking subsystem resists rotation of the pinion gear when the gear rack translates upon firing of the weapon.

Abstract: An anti-mine dart includes a body containing an explosive payload and having a flyer-plate port. The dart is operable responsive to the payload being detonated to propel through the flyer-plate port a flyer plate having sufficient energy to detonate an explosive material surrounding the dart. The darts may include a plurality of explosive payloads, flyer-plate ports and flyer plates. The darts may be formed in a stack arrangement within a missile such that the flyer-plate port of each dart is not aligned with the flyer-plate ports of any of the adjacent darts in the stack arrangement. The darts may contain a simplified safe-and-arm mechanism or no safe-and-arm mechanism at all.

Abstract: The invention consists of initial part (2B), which at the lower side is made in pyramid form and is part of mine activating mechanism (1). At its screwing into mine body (3), ampoule (D2) containing the aggressive matter is broken by the sharp point, the matter spills and comes to initial part (2B) that gets immersed in it. The aggressive matter slowly corrodes the walls of initial part (2B) and, when it corrodes them through, it mixes with the initial explosive placed inside initial part (2B), soaks it and neutralizes it, in such a way the initial explosive looses its explosive properties, and the mine cannot be activated any more. Cylindrical housing (D) serves for placing ampoule (D2) and retaining the aggressive liquid after breaking ampoule (D2).

Abstract: An anti-mine dart includes a body containing an explosive payload and having a flyer-plate port. The dart is operable responsive to the payload being detonated to propel through the flyer-plate port a flyer plate having sufficient energy to detonate an explosive material surrounding the dart. The darts may include a plurality of explosive payloads, flyer-plate ports and flyer plates. The darts may be formed in a stack arrangement within a missile such that the flyer-plate port of each dart is not aligned with the flyer-plate ports of any of the adjacent darts in the stack arrangement. The darts may contain a simplified safe-and-arm mechanism or no safe-and-arm mechanism at all.

Abstract: Systems are described herein for remotely aligning and placing disruptive devices at or near suspicious targets such as suspected improvised explosive devices (IEDs). In particular, tools connected to remotely controllable robots include disruptor guns for firing disruptive materials at the targets and disruptive devices filled with explosive materials, e.g., water, for controllably detonating or disrupting the detonation of the targets when placed in close proximity thereto.

Abstract: The invention relates to a delivery device designed to carry Mineral Water Bottle (MWB) counter charges, by remote means, to a target Improvised Explosive Device (IED) during render-safe procedures. The delivery device is die-cut as a blank and folded into the desired form. The device includes at least one elongated tubular holding element for receiving a MWB counter charge with a lifting strap attached thereto that can easily be grasped by any remote means. The device is designed in such a way so as to provide automatic positioning of the MWB counter charges at the appropriate stand-off distance in relation to the IED. As well, the delivery device is fully collapsible so as to facilitate the storage and transportation of the device, and provides a quick and user-friendly system that facilitates the deployment of MWB counter charges.

Abstract: A method of preventing initiation of an explosive device. The method comprises substantially encasing an explosive device with a conductive foam. The explosive device is configured to be initiated by an electromagnetic radiation signal, such as that emitted by a transmitter of a wireless door bell device. Deactivated explosive devices are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for executing a method for neutralizing an explosive device disposed within a targeted area. In operation, an artificial lightning generator of the system generates one or more electric sparks. Additionally, a spinning breakout apparatus of the system spins a spark emission point in a predetermined pattern within the targeted area, and for neutralizing the explosive device, discharges the electric spark(s) into the targeted area via the spark emission point.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for neutralizing explosives and electronics utilizing a high voltage electrical discharge.

Abstract: A system for neutralizing a buried mine includes a laser that is configured to generate laser energy that communicates through the covering ground material and accesses the mine in a manner sufficient to neutralize the mine. Neutralization can occur by deflagration or detonation. The laser includes a solid-state lasing medium that is run substantially uncooled during the lasing run. Namely, the lasing medium is operated without cooling until the lasing medium reaches a temperature where thermal population in a lower laser level begins to significantly lower inversion density. Following completion of the lasing run, the lasing medium is cooled at a rate limited only by a thermal stress fracture level of the lasing medium. Operation of the laser in this manner permits the laser to deliver high-irradiance, high-repetition rate pulses according to a burst mode operation that successfully accomplishes neutralization in a desired time period.

Abstract: The machine for removing ferrous debris removes such debris from firing ranges where the removal of hard objects is desired to prevent ricochets during firing exercises, particularly on aircraft gunnery ranges. The machine includes a chassis towed behind a remotely controlled or automated vehicle, with a mechanism support frame pivotally mounted on the chassis. A series of magnetic operating arms is provided across the mechanism frame, with a chain drive conveyor cycling the operating arms as the machine is operated. The operating arms automatically release any gathered ferrous debris into a hopper as the arms reach the hopper during their cycle. A mechanism is provided to accommodate angular deflection of the operating arms relative to the hopper due to sloped terrain, and a further automated mechanism is provided to tilt and empty the hopper as required. No human operator is required in the immediate area of the machine.

Abstract: A method of destroying mines in a minefield buried under the surface includes deploying a munition including a plurality of kinetic energy rods each having a stabilizer into a position above the minefield and deploying the rods above the minefield to fall towards the minefield each aligned along a velocity vector to penetrate the surface and destroy the mines.

Abstract: A magnetic signature minesweeping device comprising a water driven turbine power generator and a superconducting material magnet, wherein the turbine power generator is arranged, in use, to supply a driving current for the superconducting material magnet when the minesweeping device is towed through the water. In a further embodiment, a control unit is arranged, in use, to control the magnetic output of the superconducting magnet and the power output of the turbine power generator. Furthermore, a method of minesweeping using the device and an array of the devices is disclosed.

Abstract: A method of destroying mines in a minefield buried under the surface includes deploying a munition including a plurality of kinetic energy rods each having a stabilizer into a position above the minefield and deploying the rods above the minefield to fall towards the minefield each aligned along a velocity vector to penetrate the surface and destroy the mines.

Abstract: Apparatus and accompanying methods for the detection and subsequent destruction or disablement of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) while maintaining a satisfactory level of human safety. Operationally, our inventive method and apparatus detects the IED using one or more methods including: detecting internal battery components; detecting magnetic signature(s) of the IED; detecting a characteristic energy spectrum of the IED; and/or detecting characteristic chemical signatures of the device(s). Once detected, the device may be further characterized and then subsequently deactivated and/or destroyed by a shaped pulse charge directed at the device or its power source (battery) from a safe distance.

Abstract: An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) defense system is described that forces premature detonation of IEDs by radiated sound energy signals. Embodiments of the invention provide for radiating sound energy signals from a stationary or mobile platform to a stationary or mobile area defining an “IED detonation zone.” IEDs within the IED detonation zone that are triggered by sound energy sources will receive the radiated sound energy signals, thereby forcing premature detonation of IEDs in the detonation zone.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for clearing land mines includes a mine detonator, a unmanned propulsion device and a rake member-electromagnet combination. The mine detonator includes a roller assembly, which is connected to and propelled by a prime mover of the unmanned propulsion unit. The mine detonator additionally may include a segmented column of weights that function to exert ground pressure to detonate hidden land mines. The rake member-electromagnet combination includes a rake member to turn up soil as the device advances in a minefield, and a magnetic member to pick up surface or sub-surface metal on the minefield.

Abstract: The present invention refers to an aerial-supported procedure for the detection of landmines, duds or similar explosive bodies using a fluorescence procedure, including aerial-supported geo-referencing of the detected locations by means of a digital terrain model.

Abstract: A magnetic signature minesweeping device (10) comprising a water driven turbine power generator (12) and a superconducting material magnet (14), wherein the turbine power generator is arranged, in use, to supply a driving current for the superconducting material magnet (14) when the minesweeping device is towed through the water. In a further embodiment a control unit (24) is arranged, in use, to control the magnetic output of the superconducting magnet (14) and the power output of the turbine power generator (12). Further more a method of minesweeping using the device (10), and an array of the devices (10) is disclosed.

Abstract: A system for detecting and identifying the presence of objects, substances, or other items of interest located above or beneath a surface includes at least one aerial platform capable of powered flight, and a base station including apparatus for launching, storing, and refueling the at least one aerial platform. The base station further includes apparatus for communicating with the aerial platform(s). A control station remote from the base station can be configured to communicating with the base station. A display can be associated with the base station and the control station to receive signals from the aerial platform and indicate the location and identity of the objects, substances, or other items detected by the aerial platforms.

Abstract: A landmine detection and neutralization apparatus and method is disclosed. The apparatus to determine the location of landmines, comprises at least two detection modules utilizing different infrared, sound, and/or optical detection and a remotely operated miniature airborne vehicle, that may carry the detection modules at an optimum altitude over a surface that may contain landmines. The neutralization device may be a microwave and/or infrared wave generator. The method for determining the location of landmines comprises using at least two different landmine detection techniques where the techniques are infrared, sound, and optical detection, operating the detection techniques in a close proximity to a surface that may contain landmines and maintaining this close proximity by operating a remotely operated miniature airborne vehicle. Neutralization may be achieved by directing microwaves or infrared waves at detected landmines.

Abstract: A two piece, two-stage, rechargeable, reusable, reduced-energy mechanically operating cartridge is provided for launching a bullet of various compositions from a dedicated or modified firearm. The cartridge unit is comprised of a primary case, a piston sleeve, a propellant unit, and a bullet choice of a solid light weight material for inanimate-target applications or a “marking” version for non-lethal live-target training applications. Cartridge includes a piston sleeve and a primary case coupled together via a channel and cog locking/traveling/unlocking system. The primary case includes a substantially non-deformable jacket defining a cavity to receive a propellant unit or propellant connection and provides the channels to receive piston sleeves cogs for a locking/traveling/unlocking feature. The piston sleeve includes a substantially non-deformable jacket defining a cavity to receive configured bullet.

Abstract: A method of deactivating land mines buried in ground comprises projecting high-pressure water jets into ground, cutting through ground with the high-pressure water jets, and making at least one cut through a land mine or cutting through at least one land mine that had been under the ground, the cutting of the land mine reducing the performance of the land mine. The method may reduce the performance of the land mine by rendering the land mine inactive to normal detonation procedures for the land mine. To reach as many surface areas on the buried landmines, it is preferable that at least two high-pressure water jets are spaced apart are used to cut through the ground. The method may be practiced with the high-pressure water jet being carried on a vehicle and cutting is done in a line that is formed at least in part by movement of the vehicle over the ground while the high-pressure water jet is cutting ground.

Abstract: A method of deactivating land mines buried in ground comprises projecting high-pressure water jets into ground, cutting through ground with the high-pressure water jets, and making at least one cut through a land mine or cutting through at least one land mine that had been under the ground, the cutting of the land mine reducing the performance of the land mine. The method may reduce the performance of the land mine by rendering the land mine inactive to normal detonation procedures for the land mine. To reach as many surface areas on the buried landmines, it is preferable that at least two high-pressure water jets are spaced apart are used to cut through the ground. The method may be practiced with the high-pressure water jet being carried on a vehicle and cutting is done in a line that is formed at least in part by movement of the vehicle over the ground while the high-pressure water jet is cutting ground.

Abstract: The machine for removing ferrous debris removes such debris from firing ranges where the removal of hard objects is desired to prevent ricochets during firing exercises, particularly on aircraft gunnery ranges. The machine includes a chassis towed behind a remotely controlled or automated vehicle, with a mechanism support frame pivotally mounted on the chassis. A series of magnetic operating arms is provided across the mechanism frame, with a chain drive conveyor cycling the operating arms as the machine is operated. The operating arms automatically release any gathered ferrous debris into a hopper as the arms reach the hopper during their cycle. A mechanism is provided to accommodate angular deflection of the operating arms relative to the hopper due to sloped terrain, and a further automated mechanism is provided to tilt and empty the hopper as required. No human operator is required in the immediate area of the machine.

Abstract: A precautionary measure against wireless phone-triggered Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) is described that forces premature detonation of the IED at a safe location, such as a position in advance of a convoy of vehicles or troops, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the IED. Embodiments of the invention provide for transmitting low power alerting signals (e.g., paging, ringing, message waiting, text messages) from a wireless terminal residing on a mobile platform that is operable to navigate a transportation path in advance of a prospective target, to mobile stations within close proximity of the platform defining an “IED detonation zone.” In such manner, mobile stations within the IED detonation zone that are IED triggering devices (as well as mobile stations that are not IED triggering devices) will receive the alerting signals, thereby forcing premature detonation of IEDs in the detonation zone.

Abstract: A precautionary measure against wireless phone-triggered Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDS) is described that forces premature detonation of the IED at a safe location, such as an unmanned checkpoint, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the IED. Embodiments of the invention provide for transmitting directionalized, low power alerting signals (e.g., paging, ringing, message waiting, text messages) from a stationary wireless terminal advantageously positioned a safe distance from a prospective target area, to mobile stations within a portion of a wireless service area defining an “IED detonation zone.” In such manner, mobile stations within the IED detonation zone that are IED triggering devices (as well as mobile stations that are not IED triggering devices) will receive the alerting signals, thereby forcing premature detonation of IEDs in the detonation zone.

Abstract: In a method for detection and neutralization of underwater objects which are present in a sea region, in particular mines, a two-dimensional or three-dimensional image of the seabed is created by means of an unmanned first underwater vehicle during a reconnaissance mission in a sea region section by means of optical and/or acoustic sensors, and this image is evaluated for the presence of underwater objects, after completion of the reconnaissance mission. At least one underwater object which is present is marked in the image, and the image which has been provided with the object marking is stored in an unmanned second underwater vehicle, which is equipped with the same sensors and additionally with a neutralization unit. During a neutralization mission by the second underwater vehicle in the same sea region section, image elements of the seabed are created continuously by means of the sensors and are compared with the stored image of the seabed.

Abstract: A method for neutralization of the explosive content of mines and UXO by essentially completely consuming the explosive by combustion or decomposition before any explosion occurs. A charge of a compound that reacts with an extremely high heat-release rate is ignited on or near the casing of the device to be neutralized. The intense exothermic reaction generates high temperature combustion products that will disrupt the casing, thus leading to combustion or decomposition of the explosive. The holes melted in the mine casing enable ignition of a large area of the explosive charge and provide easy access for atmospheric air to support active burnout of the explosive. The apparatus comprises the compound that reacts with a high heat release rate, an ignition source, and a container for the assembly.

Abstract: A payload is housed in a deliverable body of a device, such as in a projectile, and this device is delivered as close as possible to a target. At the landing point, a drive system of the body is activated to take the payload directly to the target. The target is described by target coordinates, for example, which are programmed into the device before it is launched. The device itself can be steered or unsteered. The drive system installed on the body or formed by the body is variable and should occupy a minimum of space.

Abstract: A mine clearing device comprises a substantially hollow body forming a cavity. An eccentric ballast is disposed within the cavity and is rotated by a motor powered by an internal power source, thereby imparting rotational motion to the device. A plurality of anti-axial projections of varying lengths and sizes are mounted on the outer surface of the body to interact with the terrain and, thus, impart unbiased motion to the body as it rotates and traverses a mine field. The outer surface of the body is made of blast resistant material. A shock absorbent material, disposed within the cavity, absorbs the explosive force of mines. Circuitry or a marker substance may be used to record or mark the path traveled by the device.

Abstract: A vibratory countermine system and method associated with a propulsion means. The system is comprised of a ground-contacting percussion system assembly that is mounted to the front of the propulsion means. Also, a vibratory subassembly is mounted inside the ground-contacting percussion assembly for inducing vibrations in the ground. The ground-contacting percussion system is in contact with the ground ahead of the propulsion means. It transmits the vibrations, associated forces, and pressure waves below or ahead of the countermine system through the ground, thereby inducing the detonation of land mines.

Abstract: Vehicle-mounted UWB systems and/or methods for detecting mines and other explosive devices are provided. In certain exemplary embodiments, a system for detecting non-buried mines and/or improvised explosive devices is provided. Distance measuring equipment may be configured to track movement of the system. Substantially forward-looking bistatic antenna transceivers may be capable of collecting range-magnitude radar data over two channels. A first transceiver may capture radar data for a first area, and a second transceiver may capture radar data for a second area. A processor may be configured to: derive range resolution data and cross-range resolution data from the range-magnitude radar data; focus the range resolution data and the cross-range resolution data, based at least on the distance data and an antenna beamwidth pattern associated with the antenna transceivers; and, “and” data for portions of the first area and the second area that overlap.

Abstract: A mine clearing device has an outer body forming a cavity capable of holding a pressurized substance, a conduit in the outer surface for expelling the pressurized substance from the body to thereby cause the device to rotate and traverse a mine field, and a plurality of anti-axial projections on the surface of the outer body that interact with the terrain to impart unbiased motion to the body as it rotates. A regulator controls the flow of the substance and a nozzle directs it as it exits the conduit. The outer body is made of blast resistant material. A shock absorbent material, disposed within the shell, absorbs the explosive force of mines. Circuitry or a marker substance may be used to record the position of the device.

Abstract: In a method for detection and neutralization of underwater objects which are present in a sea region, in particular mines, a two-dimensional or three-dimensional image of the seabed is created by means of an unmanned first underwater vehicle during a reconnaissance mission in a sea region section by means of optical and/or acoustic sensors, and this image is evaluated for the presence of underwater objects, after completion of the reconnaissance mission. At least one underwater object which is present is marked in the image, and the image which has been provided with the object marking is stored in an unmanned second underwater vehicle, which is equipped with the same sensors and additionally with a neutralization unit. During a neutralization mission by the second underwater vehicle in the same sea region section, image elements of the seabed are created continuously by means of the sensors and are compared with the stored image of the seabed.

Abstract: A mine avoidance and protection device has a frame adapted to be secured to a source of a load, such as the foot of a person. Attached to the frame are at least three support legs each extending from the frame. Each leg has a releasable joint between the leg and the frame. At least one detector is operable to provide a detection capability for each support leg, operable to detect a characteristic of a mine when at least a portion of the support leg is located proximate to the mine. An actuator operable to provide an actuation capability at the joint of each leg, to: constrain the joint to allow a load to be transmitted from the frame, through the joint and the support to the terrain. The actuator can also release the joint such that a load can not be transmitted from the frame through the joint. The joint between the plate and each leg may be a one degree-of-freedom prismatic joint or revolute joint.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for clearing land mines includes a mine detonator, a unmanned propulsion device and a rake member-electromagnet combination. The mine detonator includes a roller assembly, which is connected to and propelled by a prime mover of the unmanned propulsion unit. The mine detonator additionally may include a segmented column of weights that function to exert ground pressure to detonate hidden land mines. The rake member-electromagnet combination includes a rake member to turn up soil as the device advances in a minefield, and a magnetic member to pick up surface or sub-surface metal on the minefield.

Abstract: A payload is housed in a deliverable body of a device, such as in a projectile, and this device is delivered as close as possible to a target. At the landing point, a drive system of the body is activated to take the payload directly to the target. The target is described by target coordinates, for example, which are programmed into the device before it is launched. The device itself can be steered or unsteered. The drive system installed on the body or formed by the body is variable and should occupy a minimum of space.

Abstract: An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) defense system is described that forces premature detonation of IEDs by releasing chemical substances from a stationary or mobile platform within a stationary or mobile “IED detonation zone.” IEDs within the IED detonation zone that are triggered by chemical substances will receive the released chemical substances, thereby forcing premature detonation of IEDs in the detonation zone.

Abstract: An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) defense system is described that forces premature detonation of IEDs by radiated electromagnetic energy signals. Embodiments of the invention provide for radiating electromagnetic energy signals from a stationary or mobile platform to a stationary or mobile area defining an “IED detonation zone.” IEDs within the IED detonation zone that are triggered by electromagnetic energy sources will receive the radiated electromagnetic energy signals, thereby forcing premature detonation of IEDs in the detonation zone.

Abstract: An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) defense system is described that forces premature detonation of IEDs by radiated sound energy signals. Embodiments of the invention provide for radiating sound energy signals from a stationary or mobile platform to a stationary or mobile area defining an “IED detonation zone.” IEDs within the IED detonation zone that are triggered by sound energy sources will receive the radiated sound energy signals, thereby forcing premature detonation of IEDs in the detonation zone.

Abstract: An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) defense system is described that forces premature detonation of IEDs by creating kinetic energy vibrations from a stationary or mobile platform within a stationary or mobile “IED detonation zone.” IEDs within the IED detonation zone that are triggered by kinetic energy vibrations will receive the vibrations, thereby forcing premature detonation of IEDs in the detonation zone.

Abstract: An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) defense system is described that forces premature detonation of IEDs by radiated laser energy signals (i.e., laser beams). Embodiments of the invention provide for radiating laser beams from a stationary or mobile platform to a stationary or mobile area defining an “IED detonation zone.” IEDs within the IED detonation zone that are triggered by laser energy will receive the radiated laser beams, thereby forcing premature detonation of IEDs in the detonation zone.