Abstract
Today, canines are still used effectively in
acceleration detection situation. However, this method is becoming
impractical in modern age and a new automated replacement to the
canine is required. This paper reports the design of an innovative
accelerant detector. Designing an accelerant detector is a long
process as is any design process; therefore, a solution to the need for
a mobile, effective accelerant detector is hereby presented. The
device is simple and efficient to ensure that any accelerant detection
can be conducted quickly and easily. The design utilizes Ultra Violet
(UV) light to detect the accelerant. When the UV light shines on an
accelerant, the hydrocarbons in the accelerant emit florescence. The
advantages of using the UV light to detect accelerant are also
outlined in this paper. The mobility of the device is achieved by
using a Direct Current (DC) motor to run tank tracks. Tank tracks
were chosen as to ensure that the device will be mobile in the rough
terrain of a fire site. The materials selected for the various parts are
also presented. A Solid Works Simulation was also conducted on the
stresses in the shafts and the results are presented. This design is an
innovative solution which offers a user friendly interface. The design
is also environmentally friendly, ecologically sound and safe to use.