Abstract:
Embodiments of the invention described herein thus provide systems and methods for arresting aircraft. In specific embodiments, the systems and methods can be useful in arresting light aircraft because they typically do not have the weight to penetrate available EMAS systems. The system is generally provided as a structure having a suspended layer of energy absorbing material. A lower portion of the system can have a lower strength, used as a method to suspend an upper, stronger/more highly energy absorbent portion of the system.
Abstract:
A safety apparatus for use in stopping vehicles which depart from the side of a track 10, comprises a pool 14 of liquid 24 which extends along and to the side of the track 10. The pool 14 is shaped to become deeper with increasing distance from the track up to a predetermined maximum depth. A crash barrier stops any vehicle which fails to be arrested by the liquid 24. The pool 14 can be filled and emptied using a pump 34. A layer of gravel 36 in the pool can be substituted as the vehicle arrest medium by pumping the pool 14 empty. Different depth of liquid 24 can be selected, using the pump 34. The liquid 24 is preferred to be water, which can be found from rainwater runoff from the track 10. Such runoff can be pumped away. The invention can be used on both sides of a track 10. The invention is focussed on vehicle racing tracks, but is also applicable to highways and aircraft runways.
Abstract:
Embodiments of the present invention relate to composite materials for use as a vehicle arresting system (also referred to as an Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS). Specific embodiments may use modified polymeric foams composites. The polymeric foams may include additives, coatings, combinations of both, or other features than render them useful for an EMAS. The polymeric foams may also have one or more modified surfaces that provide a protective crust. For example, the one or more surface may be modified by application of heat in order to help close the polymeric foam cells and/or to create an encapsulative surface. These features can provide enhanced weather resistance, fire resistance, moisture absorption, jet blast resistance, improve their energy absorbing properties, or other desired features.
Abstract:
Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for vehicle arresting systems made from low-density particles and appropriate binders. The systems are designed to provide a barrier or a bed that is placed at the end of a runway or at the edge of a highway that will predictably and reliably crush (or otherwise deform) under the pressure of vehicle wheels traveling off the end of the runway or the edge of the road.
Abstract:
Embodiments of the present invention provide cellular phosphate bodies formed using specialized steps to ensure a specific strength range, and specifically a compressive strength less than 100 pounds per square inch. Further embodiments relate to uses for various phosphate ceramics as vehicle arresting systems.
Abstract:
A vehicle energy harvesting roadway is provided. The vehicle energy harvesting roadway includes a deformable driving surface that is longitudinally flexible and transversely stiff. The deformable driving surface is disposed between a passing vehicle and one or more transducers or one or more compressible hoses.
Abstract:
Materials and structures for absorbing energy. The materials and structures are well suited for arresting aircraft and other vehicles, although their purposes need not be so limited. Also detailed are packaging and other solutions for maintaining system integrity, especially (but not exclusively) when foam glass or other aggregate is employed and stabilizing the location of the aggregate is desired.
Abstract:
Embodiments of the present invention provide a core of individual components (10) having properties such that a system assembled from the components absorbs the kinetic energy of a moving vehicle. The components (10) may be interlocking components. The components may be manufactured of ceramic or polymeric composite or other materials that are strong enough to absorb the vehicle's energy and help stop the vehicle safely by the system's ability to crush or deform upon impact, and not so strong that it causes the vehicle to crumple against the barrier. In one particular embodiment, the components may be modified packing elements that are traditionally used in gas to liquid columns.