Mobile laser cutting system for complex rescue operations

Abstract

When a serious motor vehicle accident happens, persons with severe injuries may be trapped inside damaged vehicles. In these cases, it is necessary to rescue the injured persons as fast as possible to increase their chance to survive. Nevertheless, secondary injuries due to the rescue procedures must be avoided. In this scenario, structural parts typically have to be cut to create rescue openings. Therefore, several high-tech rescue systems are available, most common hydraulic apparatus. Alternatively, reciprocating saws, angle grinders or plasma cutters are used, depending on the specific on-scene conditions. Lately, there has been tremendous progress regarding the developments on vehicle safety. One example is the integration of super high-strength steels and carbon fiber reinforced plastics, concurrently meeting the requirements of weight reduction. As a result, mechanical rescue systems like hydraulic shears reach their performance limits. The main goal of this work is the development of a mobile laser cutting device for rescue operations. The focus is put on high flexibility concerning the processing of high-strength materials and multilayer structures. Moreover, robustness, easy handling and system weight shall be optimized, as rescuers often work under harsh conditions concerning temperature, humidity, dirt and stress. Crucial aspect of laser rescuing is safety which must be guaranteed for all persons involved at any time. Here, results of laser cutting experiments, using materials and structures relevant for rescue situations, are presented.