Abstract: A blind-mating rocket launcher connector and protection system having a connector, a floating connector member, a cam, a connector cover, and a linkage between the cam and connector cover whereby the connector may mate with a second connector when the cam is displaced despite misalignments between the first and second connector. For the preferred embodiment, the floating connector member has multiple degrees of freedom with a reduced diameter portion and a lengthwise key whereby the connector is capable of mating with an aerodynamic hood of a rocket. The preferred embodiment biases and closes the connector cover upon the connector prior to a plume of the rocket passes the connector whereby exposure of the connector to the deleterious effects of the plume are minimized.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
April 28, 2011
Date of Patent:
January 15, 2013
Assignee:
Arnold Defense and Electronics, LLC
Inventors:
Matthew R. Montgomery, M. Keith Stephens, W. Noel McCormick, Paul D. Stevenson