Design and Optimization of the Training Device for the Employment of Hydraulic Rescue Tools in Traffic Accidents

Abstract

This paper is concerned with the design and structural optimization of a training device for operators of a hydraulic rescue tool employed during traffic accidents, in conjunction with the improvement of the technical procedures used in such situations. Changes in the design process and subsequent production in the motor industry frequently result in an increased impact resistance of the used structural components. This applies, also, to extrication works and frequently used technical equipment. This paper presents its findings on the design process for the prototype of a training device designed for the extrication cutting drill with the assistance of a hydraulic rescue tool. The primary part of the research was dedicated to structural optimization; therefore, parameter dimensioning of the training device’s prototype was implemented. The device’s mechanical resistance, sturdiness, and stability during the implementation of hydraulic tools were also taken into account. A secondary part of this research comprised experimental results aimed at assessing the time needed to cut through the structural parts of a vehicle—pillars “A” and “B”—while using a hydraulic rescue tool. The structural design of the pillars of selected mid-range vehicles, according to their year of manufacture, was employed. The experiment showed that the newer the vehicle, the higher the cutting resistance of the pillars (predominantly “B”-type pillars). The results revealed that the cutting-work drill contributes to the reduction in the actual cutting time. Furthermore, the identification of the optimal place for cutting and the cutting angle led to more efficient extrication processes that can be applied during rescue works resulting from traffic accidents.