Abstract: A ball latch mechanism including an annular cage concentrically located between a bearing member and a trigger. The cage includes a slot and a latch ball located in the slot in contacting relation with the trigger. The latch ball is radially movable between a first position in which the ball protrudes from the slot to interfere with movement of the bearing member and a second position wherein the ball is retracted into the trigger. Each slot is circumferentially elongated in relation to the ball such that, upon rotation of the trigger from a latch position to an unlatched position, the ball rolls circumferentially along the cylindrical surface within the slot. A biasing means may be used to urge the ball toward a preferred starting location.

Abstract: A release and arming mechanism for an ordnance device having an arming block, a pair of opposed jaws pivotally mounted to the arming block, and a solenoid that, when energized, holds the jaws in a closed position around an arming wire. A release lanyard connectable to the ordnance device is clipped to the jaws in such a manner as to hold the jaws in the closed position until such time as the ordnance device is launched. A spring may be placed between the jaws below their pivot points to force the jaws open upon disconnection of the release lanyard.

Abstract: A linear and rotary electromagnetic device particularly adapted as a linear and rotary stepper or stepper motor. A cylindrical movable member or armature is provided which is mounted for both axial movement and for angular movement about its axis. The armature member has teeth on its surface formed in both axial rows and in circumferential alignment or rows. Stator means having poles with windings associated with the poles is provided, the stator means having a central opening in which the movable armature member is mounted for axial and angular movement. By energizing certain angularly spaced windings, the movable armature member may be caused to rotate. By energizing axially spaced windings, the movable member of armature can be caused to move axially. Simultaneous angular and axial movement is achieved by energizing appropriate windings.

Abstract: Safety arming solenoid for use with missiles. Pivoted jaw means retain the end of an arming wire or cable that connects to the missile. A solenoid controls opening of the jaw means. The solenoid is a rotary type having a stem with an end part positionable angularly to restrain the jaws against opening or to release them. In a modified form, a second coil is provided whereby the solenoid armature has linear as well as angular motion for actuating the jaws in response to linear movement.