A special challenge at DEMO-EWI
On Monday morning, DEMO-EWI received an email marked "High Importance" with the subject "HELP – Elephant with a branch in its trunk." In Amersfoort, a willow branch, 30 to 40 cm deep, was stuck in the trunk of an elephant. This was only the second case of its kind, and the veterinarian couldn't reach the branch with the available tools. Due to time pressure, DEMO TU Delft was approached for assistance. The situation had to be resolved by 11 AM, or it would require surgery.
The elephant's trunk had an opening of only 5 cm, and the first idea was to use a garden hose with a braided rope and slip knot to grab and pull out the branch. An alternative solution was proposed: a pliers with a double hinge, which was originally difficult to find. After some searching, the pliers were located, but they were 10 cm too short. Within no time, two pieces of steel, each 20 cm long, were welded onto the pliers, and the team set off for Amersfoort with the modified tool.
Once on site, the DEMO team handed the modified pliers to the veterinarian. After a few minutes, the elephant’s sedative had taken effect, and she remained calm enough to allow the pliers to be placed in her trunk. The willow branch was grabbed and pulled out in one go. Using a shorter pair of pliers, the 75 cm branch was completely removed from the trunk.
The outcome was a success: the elephant was helped, and the team of veterinarians, surgeons, and caretakers was thrilled. The pliers now remain with the veterinarian in case a similar situation arises again. Additionally, DEMO is allowed to choose a new flat pliers with a double hinge.
It was a fantastic collaboration in which DEMO fully utilized its creativity and technical skills to provide a unique solution.
