Abstract: A pyrotechnic initiator with enclosed on-board control circuitry, and a mating connector therefor.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic initiator with an integral, unitary, overmolded insulating body that eliminates the need for separate components to form the body, and the method of molding same.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic fuel material for a booster in a pyrotechnic system having an adjacent igniter. In one embodiment, a powdered BaAl.sub.4 compound is used as the booster pyrotechnic fuel. In another embodiment, a powdered zirconium/nickel alloy is used as the booster pyrotechnic fuel. Both the powdered BaAl.sub.4 compound and the powdered zirconium/nickel alloy exhibit ignition sensitivity thresholds on the order of millijoules, thereby allowing for increased safety in manufacturing and handling over elemental powdered metal pyrotechnic fuels normally used for the entire pyrotechnic system.

Abstract: Disclosed is an improved method of drying a slurry of adhesive particles and counter-solvent such as a slurry of pyrotechnic particles and counter-solvent produced by the precipitation method, wherein the counter-solvent is evaporated from the slurry for a period of time under turbulence so as to prevent caking or aggregation of the particles.

Abstract: An improved arming and firing device especially suited for rocket motors. An explosive donor charge is packed against a bulkhead formed in the body of the device. Shock energy generated by the donor charge and transmitted through the unruptured bulkhead sets off a shock-responsive receptor charge, which in turn initiates a pyrotechnic or explosive rocket motor-actuating output charge. The bulkhead prevents blow-by or leakage of the rocket's combustion products. The donor charge is ignited by an electrically activated detonator. The detonator is carried by a moveable holder. The holder is moved against a return spring by electromechanical driving means. Arming the device is accomplished by moving the holder to position the detonator in firing train with the donor charge, thereby simultaneously bringing electrical contacts on the detonator into contact with electrical leads on a switch plate located adjacent the holder and thus closing the firing circuit.

Abstract: Novel structure within the squib provides an internal spark gap for discharge of radio-frequency as well as static electricity, and isolation of the spark gap from the pyrotechnic charge. The preferred structure is in the form of a cup mounted inside the squib case and containing the pyrotechnic material; the bottom of the cup is partly cut away to permit the igniting filament to contact the pyrotechnic material, while the remainder of the cup bottom is welded to a terminal lead. The top of the cup is flanged outward toward the inside of the case, forming an annular spark gap. This invention is particularly advantageous in a two-pin squib with an electrically floating case, but under certain circumstances is also beneficial in a single-pin or "coaxial" squib.