2. Mechanics of Machine Demining

A description of the basic physical–mechanical soil characteristics, soil categorization, soil digging resistance and soil trafficability is provided in this chapter. The theory of mechanical demining calculation is shown, based on soil treatment with flail and tiller to a certain soil depth and density for neutralization of mines. Demining machines neutralize buried mines by their destruction to bits or their activation. Moreover, mechanical demining theory is explained on basis of rollers. Emphasis of flail mechanics is given through flail parameters, hammer striking force, hammer force impulse, power requested for machine operation and total required demining machine strength. Flail design is derived, with flail geometry to optimal shapes of a striking hammer, then flail parameters for striking hammers, helixes and flails with relevant values. In addition, described are the means of testing flail durability against mine explosions. While analyzing demining rollers, AT mine destruction reliability is derived together with analysis of factor influence on activation of buried mines.