Abstract: A method of modifying a projectile includes removing material from an aft end of the projectile, and coupling a device to the aft end. The method may be used to convert a spin-stabilized projectile into a fin stabilized projectile, by modifying the aft end of a spin-stabilized projectile to accept a fin kit. The modifying may involve removing material with lathe, and may include forming external threads on the aft end that may engage corresponding internal threads on the device, to effect the coupling of the device to the aft end. The modification method allows versatility in employing projectiles, including existing stocks of projectiles. In particular the method allows spin-stabilized projectiles to be converted to more accurate fin-stabilized projectiles.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to use of a polyamide thermal plastic as a potting compound for potting electronic components (ex.—printed circuit boards) of an electronics assembly which is implemented in a munition. Use of the polyamide thermal plastic as a potting compound allows for a gun-hardened electronics assembly. Use of the polyamide thermal plastic as a potting compound also allows for reworkability. For example, during early testing phases of the electronics assembly, the potting material of the present disclosure may be removable (ex.—such as via a hot solvent bath) from the electronics assembly so that the electronics components may be: examined to determine the cause(s) for low yield during testing; and/or fixed, rather than having to rebuild the entire electronics assembly, thereby promoting lower costs of producing the electronics assembly.

Abstract: The invention relates to an identifiable bullet and methods for making an identifiable bullet. In one embodiment, the bullet has a generally circumferential body that tapers from a rearward end toward a forward end. A generally circumferential bore extends from an orifice on the forward end into the body at least part of the way between the forward end and the rearward end. The end of the bore opposite the orifice includes a polymeric material support surface. A polymeric material is placed between the polymeric material support surface and the forward end. The polymeric material may include a user identifiable marker for allowing a user to identify the bullet when viewing the forward end. Alternatively, the polymeric material may cover a user identifiable marker and seal the user identifiable marker in the bore. A user may identify the bullet by viewing the marker from the forward end of the bullet.

Abstract: A bearing system for a spin-stabilized projectile including bearing configurations that permit selective relative rotation between a spindle and a body portion and which facilitate automatic centering of the spindle. Each bearing configuration includes a conical bearing surface rotatable with respect to a corresponding conical body surface. One bearing configuration is in a forward portion of the body portion and selectively engages a first body surface upon the projectile experiencing set-back forces to direct forces away from bearing elements, and another bearing configuration is in a rearward portion of the body portion and engages a second body surface upon the projectile experiencing set-forward forces to direct forces away from the bearing elements.

Abstract: An arrangement for supporting a mortar shell into a breech-loading weapon barrel (2). The arrangement comprises a support piece (6) provided with an edge flange (7) and to be attached to the tail of the mortar shell (1), whereby the arrangement further comprises a connecting piece (8) between the support piece and the mortar shell tail, which connecting piece is arranged to be attached to the mortar shell and the support piece and thus to attach the support piece with a mechanical joint to the mortar shell tail. In connection with the connecting piece (8), there is a point which is arranged to yield in a firing situation and thus to allow the mortar shell (1) to be detached from the support piece (6); and a firing mechanism (17) for firing the actual primer (10) of the mortar shell. The mechanical joint between the connecting piece (8) and the support piece (6) has been formed by means of cotter attachment (14).

Abstract: A pyrotechnic actuator for an active bonnet is provided that includes, but is not limited to a cylinder, a piston which can be displaced in the cylinder under the influence of a propellant gas and a first gas generator for producing the propellant gas. The actuator includes, but is not limited to at least one further gas generator, which can be ignited independently of the first gas generator.

Abstract: A system and method for providing a munitions launching system with dynamic shock isolation in which a spring plate skirt having an integral spring arrangement is provided between a munitions frame and a munitions extension, the spring plate skirt defining an opening that provides for the uninterrupted flow of expelled rocket gases, as well as underside access to the munitions frame.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic training system includes a firing block assembly housed in a first container, a pressure-armed trigger module having two triggers housed in a second container, and a power pack/switch system that connects the firing block assembly and triggers. The first and second containers are remote from each other, and may be made from common objects that might be found in combat zones. Quick-release pins inserted through components of the firing block prevents their separation by exploding ordinance within the firing block, maintaining close electrical contacts within the firing block. The pressure-armed triggers employ a mechanical system that energizes an electrical circuit when pressure is released. Such triggers are arranged such that opening or moving the container triggers an explosion at the remote firing block assembly.

Abstract: A blast treatment method enables easy and safe blast treatment of ammunition having propellant provided with a warhead having a bursting charge and a propulsion unit having a propellant.

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for supporting a shell into the barrel of a breech-loading weapon. The arrangement comprises a support piece (6) that is provided with an edge flange (7) and is to be fastened to a tail of the shell. The support piece further comprises a firing mechanism for firing the actual primer of the shell. The arrangement further comprises a connecting means (8) between the support piece (6) and the shell tail (4), the connecting means being arranged to fasten to the shell and to the support piece (6) and thus to fasten the support piece with a mechanical connection to the shell tail (4). The connecting means (8) comprises at least one shank part (9) having a first end and a second end, the first end of the shank part being arranged to fasten to the connecting means (8) and the second end to the shell tail (4).

Abstract: A system for disabling or degrading electrically initiated explosive devices includes an apparatus for inducing waveforms of varying power and duration into the leads of a bridgewire based blasting cap, thus raising the resistance to render the blasting cap inoperable without requiring detonation, and for polling or confirming electrical performance and operational status of the blasting cap. An operational methodology for neutralizing an explosive device is included.

Abstract: In order to prevent slipping of the liner on an explosive charge in a missile, the invention provides that at least one flaring or cam is fixed in the liner which, when deformed inwards, can hook itself on the explosive charge.

Abstract: This invention provides impact detection and vehicle cooperation to achieve particular goals and determine particular threat levels. For example, an impact/penetration sensing device may be provided on a soldier's clothing such that when this clothing is impacted/penetrated (e.g., penetrated to a particular extent) a medical unit (e.g., a doctor or medical chopper) may be autonomously, and immediately, provided with the soldiers location (e.g., via a GPS device on the soldier) and status (e.g., right lung may be punctured by small-arms fire).

Abstract: The invention relates to a support member for supporting a shell into the barrel of a breech-loading weapon, and a method. The support member (6) comprises means for fastening a support element (8) to at least one fin (5) belonging to the tail end (4) of a shell (1). The means comprise at least one fastening piece (10), which comprises: at least one first fastening surface (14a), which may be arranged substantially parallel with a side of the fin (5), and which fastening piece (10) may be supported to the support element (8); at least one second fastening surface (14b), which second fastening surface (14b) is movably arranged so that the second fastening surface (14b) is movable in relation to the first fastening surface (14a) in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis (L) of the shell (1); and means for pressing the fastening surfaces (14a, 14b) against the sides of the fin (5) arranged between them so as to provide friction locking between the fastening piece (10) and the fin (5).

Abstract: A support member and method for supporting a shell into the barrel of a breech-loading weapon. The support member (6) comprises a support element (8) with an rim flange (7), end (16), and edge casing (12), and means for fastening the support element (8) to at least one fin (5) belonging to the tail end (4) of the shell (1). The means for fastening the support element (8) to the tail end (4) of the shell (1) comprise a retainer part (9) arranged to the edge casing (12) and arranged to circle the inner surface (10) of the edge casing essentially level with the plane of the rim flange (7).

Abstract: Some embodiments pertain to an example projectile that includes an enclosure and an umbilical interface that is exposed on the enclosure. The projectile further includes an umbilical interface cover attached to the enclosure such that the umbilical interface cover protects the umbilical interface. The umbilical interface cover includes a casing and a sensing system inside the casing. The sensing system monitors conditions that the projectile is exposed to until the umbilical interface cover is removed to expose the umbilical interface. The sensing system allows the umbilical interface cover to record data related to the conditions that the projectile is exposed to until the umbilical interface on the projectile is mated to a launcher's umbilical interface. The recorded data may provide valuable information in diagnosing why there was a projectile mission failure.

Abstract: The invention relates to so-called fuze damping in projectiles, in particular, those provided with a built-in firing delay. Thus, a projectile (1) is provided having a rear part (1a) and a fuze (2), wherein at least one damping element (7) is inserted between a fuze base (5) and the projectile (1) and/or between a fuze shoulder (6) and a possible threaded ring (4), or similar attachment element. The damping element (7) is in the form of a disc, ring or pot, and is composed of a material with a lower acoustic impedance than the material of the projectile (1).

Abstract: Flare munition for battlefield illumination is provided that includes: (a) at least one electrical flare body; (b) an electrical energy source connectable with the flare body; and (c) an electrical or electronic control device for connecting the electrical flare body with the source of energy during a specified time interval. The flare munition can be fired from a weapon or can be launched as a bomb and allows safe and simple subsequent recovery of the corresponding flare body because no pyrotechnic flare charge is used. Instead, an electrical flare body is used that emits light in the visible and/or infrared wavelength range depending on its intended purpose.

Abstract: A method for generating electrical power from an acceleration of an object is provided. The method including: vibrating a mass-spring unit upon an acceleration of an object; transmitting a force resulting from the acceleration from the mass-spring unit to the one or more piezoelectric elements; converting the vibration of the mass-spring unit to an electrical energy; and calculating at least one of the force and acceleration based on an output of the one or more piezoelectric elements.

Abstract: A projectile is guided by employing heat, generated from the aerodynamic heating of a surface of the projectile while the projectile is in flight, to vaporize a material stored within the projectile. The resulting gas is used to guide the projectile.

Abstract: A method for producing a missile nose cone is disclosed. The method consists of manufacturing a first missile nose cone from a first lot of polymeric material and determining a first rupture value. The method further consists of manufacturing a second missile nose cone from a second lot of polymeric material and determining a second rupture value of the second missile nose cone. Both first and second lots of material are mixed into a test batch with one another based on their associated rupture values. An evaluation missile nose cone is then manufactured from the test batch and a determination is made as to whether the evaluation missile nose cone has a desired rupture value. If a desired rupture value is not obtained, then the mixing and evaluation steps are repeated.

Abstract: A system and method of tracking an identifiable initiator comprising providing an initiator comprising: an initiator casing, an explosive composition confined within the initiator casing, and a firing signal receptor for receiving a firing signal and conveying said firing signal to initiate the explosive composition, wherein the initiator is provided with a first identification means disposed internally of the initiator casing and a second identification means disposed externally of the initiator casing, wherein the first and second identification means are identical and unique to the initiator; prior to dispatch of the initiator, recording and storing the unique identity of the initiator as retrievable data in a database; after dispatch of the initiator, reading the first and/or second identification means of the initiator to determine the unique identity of the initiator; retrieving data from the database; and matching the unique identity of the initiator to the retrieved data.

Abstract: This invention provides impact detection and vehicle cooperation to achieve particular goals and determine particular threat levels. For example, an impact/penetration sensing device may be provided on a soldier's clothing such that when this clothing is impacted/penetrated (e.g., penetrated to a particular extent) a medical unit (e.g., a doctor or medical chopper) may be autonomously, and immediately, provided with the soldiers location (e.g., via a GPS device on the soldier) and status (e.g., right lung may be punctured by small-arms fire).

Abstract: Embodiments of a missile, an airframe and a structure comprising piezoelectric fibers and a method for active structural response control are generally described herein. In some embodiments, a housing structure includes a composite material containing a plurality of piezoelectric fibers adapted to generate an electrical signal in response to a deformation in the structure and to deform the structure to provide low frequency stiffness and strength performance while attenuating high frequency vibrations.

Abstract: A projectile is provided for simulating multiple sequential ballistic impacts. The projectile has a plurality of relatively dense loading layers spaced along the firing direction of the projectile. Each pair of nearest-neighbor loading layers is separated by a less dense support element which maintains the spacing of the loading layers. The projectile may be suitable for simulating bird slurry impacts on stator vanes of an aero gas turbine engine.

Abstract: An improved method of preparing 2,4,6,8,10,12-hexanitro-2,4,6,8,10,12-hexaazaisowurtzitane (2,4,6,8,10,12-hexanitro-2,4,6,8,10,12-hexaazatetracyclo[5.5.0.05,9.03,11]dodecane) (HNIW) is disclosed. The compound is useful as a high energy, high density explosive or propellant oxidizer.

Abstract: There is provided an explosives initiator with one or more identification means, and a system and method for tracking identifiable initiators. In the preferred embodiment the identification means is an RFID. A first identification means is disposed internally of the initiator and a second identification means disposed externally of the initiator. Advantageously, if the second identification means is removed from the initiator, the initiator may still be identified by the internally disposed first identification means.

Abstract: The disclosed system, device and method for providing a multi-mode munition generally includes a modular projectile assembly having an aft module suitably configured for mechanical and electrical engagement with a forward module. The aft module generally provides a common assembly for engagement with a variety of forward modules as well as engagement with cartridge casings of various calibers. Disclosed features and specifications may be suitably controlled, adapted or otherwise optionally modified to improve optimization of artillery projectiles for a specific role. Exemplary embodiments of the present invention generally provide munition cartridges that may be augmented in the field with the utilization of specialized forward modules.

Abstract: An explosive device simulator system has a housing in the shape of an explosive device. The simulator includes a sound producing system inside the housing. A light producing system inside the housing receives an actuation signal from a trigger system. The trigger system may include a microcontroller, which can be used to include a delay between a trigger event and the actuation signal. The simulator may include a smoke producing system that includes a powder that is dispersed by a gas generator. The powder exits the housing through a number of vents. A cordite odor substance may be included in the powder to provide a realistic smell of an exploded device. A light producing system provides the flash of a real explosive device and is connected to the microcontroller.

Abstract: An explosive device simulator system has a housing in the shape of an explosive device. The simulator includes a sound producing system inside the housing. A light producing system inside the housing receives an actuation signal from a trigger system. The trigger system may include a microcontroller, which can be used to include a delay between a trigger event and the actuation signal. The simulator may include a smoke producing system that includes a powder that is dispersed by a gas generator. The powder exits the housing through a number of vents. A cordite odor substance may be included in the powder to provide a realistic smell of an exploded device. A light producing system provides the flash of a real explosive device and is connected to the microcontroller.

Abstract: An explosive device simulator system has a housing in the shape of an explosive device. The simulator includes a sound producing system inside the housing. A light producing system inside the housing receives an actuation signal from a trigger system. The trigger system may include a microcontroller, which can be used to include a delay between a trigger event and the actuation signal. The simulator may include a smoke producing system that includes a powder that is dispersed by a gas generator. The powder exits the housing through a number of vents. A cordite odor substance may be included in the powder to provide a realistic smell of an exploded device. A light producing system provides the flash of a real explosive device and is connected to the microcontroller.

Abstract: Systems and methods for chemoremediation or mechanical destruction of undetonated explosive materials. An explosive apparatus contains an explosive material in close proximity to a chemical reagent selected for its chemoremediative properties. A barrier is interposed between the explosive material and the chemical reagent to delay the chemoremediation of the explosive material. Alternatively a water expandable material may be incorporated into the explosive material, whereby upon exposure to moisture the water absorbing material will expand sufficiently to fragment the explosive material into initiation insensitive particles. Initiation insensitivity is achieved by incorporation of water, which acts as a desensitizing agent as well as fragmenting the explosive material into particles sufficiently small that they are below the critical diameter for explosive initiation.

Abstract: A method and system for destroying information stored on a data storage device located onboard a vehicle in order to prevent unfriendly forces from obtaining the information is described. The method and system are initiated when the operator of the vehicle activates a triggering mechanism. The information may be destroyed by physically damaging the data storage device on which the information is stored or by releasing a software virus into the device on which the sensitive information is stored. A software virus may also be transmitted to a computer of an unfriendly force attempting to access the sensitive information.

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for supporting a shell into the barrel of a breech-loading weapon. The arrangement comprises a support piece (6) that is provided with an edge flange (7) and is to be fastened to a tail of the shell. The support piece further comprises a firing mechanism for firing the actual primer of the shell. The arrangement further comprises a connecting means (8) between the support piece (6) and the shell tail (4), the connecting means being arranged to fasten to the shell and to the support piece (6) and thus to fasten the support piece with a mechanical connection to the shell tail (4). The connecting means (8) comprises at least one shank part (9) having a first end and a second end, the first end of the shank part being arranged to fasten to the connecting means (8) and the second end to the shell tail (4).

Abstract: The invention relates to a support member for supporting a shell into the barrel of a breech-loading weapon, and a method. The support member (6) comprises means for fastening a support element (8) to at least one fin (5) belonging to the tail end (4) of a shell (1). The means comprise at least one fastening piece (10), which comprises: at least one first fastening surface (14a), which may be arranged substantially parallel with a side of the fin (5), and which fastening piece (10) may be supported to the support element (8); at least one second fastening surface (14b), which second fastening surface (14b) is movably arranged so that the second fastening surface (14b) is movable in relation to the first fastening surface (14a) in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis (L) of the shell (1); and means for pressing the fastening surfaces (14a, 14b) against the sides of the fin (5) arranged between them so as to provide friction locking between the fastening piece (10) and the fin (5).

Abstract: A vibration controlled housing. The novel housing includes a housing structure and a mechanism for receiving a control signal and in accordance therewith electronically tuning a structural response of the structure. In an illustrative embodiment, the housing structure includes a composite material containing a plurality of piezoelectric fibers adapted to generate an electrical signal in response to a deformation in the structure and to deform the structure in response to an electrical signal applied thereto. A control circuit receives the sensed signal from the fibers and generates an excitation signal that is applied to the fibers to increase the stiffness or compliance of the fibers at predetermined frequencies. In an illustrative embodiment, the control signal is adapted to provide low frequency stiffness and strength performance while attenuating high frequency vibrations to protect electronics housed within the structure.

Abstract: A sympathetic detonation barrier for a munition includes a generally cylindrical polyethylene sleeve disposed over the munition. Preferably, the sleeve comprises HDPE. The sleeve may include vent openings in a side wall. In one embodiment, the sleeve extends from substantially a rear end of the munition to substantially a rear end of a fuze well of the munition.

Abstract: The following invention relates to a mount for holding a charge in a breech. The mount attaches, or is integral to, a charge and is provided with a dilation means which rests within a breech of a gun to prevent the charge from sliding back out of the breech when the gun is held at a high angle. The dilation means is fabricated from a material which, when the gun is fired, combusts to leave negligible debris in the breech.

Abstract: A method of assembling an external telemetry unit for a projectile comprising the steps of providing a shell whose inside is formed to match the contour of the projectile body, encircling the front of the shell with a flexible battery and flexible electronic circuitry, and covering the flexible battery and flexible electronic circuitry with a plurality of contoured antennas. Also disclosed is a method of using an external telemetry unit comprising the steps of removing the fuze from a projectile having a projectile body and a fuze, sliding the unit over the front of the projectile body; reinstalling the fuze, firing the projectile, and observing the projectile data transmitted by the unit.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method that can be used to scientifically fabricate pseudoscents of explosives, which, in their entirety, are comprised of non-energetic materials. It also discloses specific compositions of such pseudoscents, which can be used as energetically-inert-but-odoriferously-identical simulants for a range of explosives and are comprised of non-energetic components of the scent signature of an explosive and/or energetic scent components of the same headspace scent signature that have been rendered non-energetic. The scents achievable by the groups of formulations generated by this method encompass the different types of military and commercial explosives, and the components within the pseudoscents can be tuned to generate simulants representative of different qualities and quantities of such explosives.

Abstract: A selectable delay mechanism for a pyrotechnic munition having an indexing sleeve and a fuze core containing delay composition positioned within the indexing sleeve and a plurality of ports each located in the indexing sleeve and the fuze core wherein a port in the indexing sleeve is aligned with a port in the fuze core to vary the initiation of the delay composition.

Abstract: Various implementations are disclosed for self-contained, non-intrusive data collection in ammunition. In some implementations, a gun is loaded with a non-explosive, non-firing round of ammunition containing a data acquisition system. Such a data-collecting round of ammunition may be loaded into the gun according to the same procedures as live rounds of ammunition, and, in particular, may be loaded into a firing position immediately after a preceding live round has been fired. In this way, the data-collecting round of ammunition is able to experience temperature or other conditions that are experienced essentially identically by live rounds. After collecting related data while in the firing position, the data-collecting round may be removed from the gun, for analysis of the data for, for example, development of hot gun misfire safety procedures.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a device for determining the roll orientation of a body with respect to a local fixed coordinate system or a predetermined reference vector. The device uses a measurement of an external magnetic field, such as the Earth's magnetic field, to determine a roll orientation reference with respect to the field or an uncompensated roll orientation. The uncompensated roll orientation is then adjusted according to a bias angle, such as an angular difference between the external magnetic field and a local fixed coordinate system, to determine the roll orientation of the device with respect to the local fixed coordinate system or a compensated roll angle.

Abstract: A shock-triggered warhead fragment transmitter is described. The transmitter is designed to radiate a pulse upon either detonation of the warhead or impact of the fragment with the target. The pulse energy is obtained by shock de-poling of a ferroelectric material and is radiated using a dipole antenna. Detection of the radiated pulses may be used to confirm detonation of the warhead and determine the time and location of the detonation and facilitate battle damage assessment.

Abstract: The present invention provides for cutting operations using linear thermite charges; the charges cut one dimensional or two dimensional geometric shapes; the invention is useful for structure entry or demolition.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a simulated mine includes a multiple integrated laser engagement system (MILES) device and a pyrotechnic device disposed in a simulated mine housing that simulates the appearance of an actual mine. The multiple integrated laser engagement system device is operable to transmit a light signal representative of a blast from the actual mine. The pyrotechnic device is operable to detonate simultaneously with transmission of the light signal.

Abstract: A blasting method of blasting an explosive device at least containing an explosive and a chemical agent in a sealed pressure vessel that prevents soot generation during blasting and improves an efficiency of decomposing the chemical agent. First, a transported chemical bomb (explosive) 100 is placed and sealed in a blasting chamber (pressure vessel) 10. The blasting chamber 10 is then brought into a reduced-pressure or vacuum state by aspiration of the air therein by using a vacuum pump 13a and oxygen is supplied through an injection port 12 into the blasting chamber 10 to a pressure of 15 to 30% of atmospheric pressure. The chemical bomb 100 is then blasted, as it is ignited by an ignition device not shown in the Figure.

Abstract: A device for disrupting improvised explosive devices (IEDs) with a projectile, which serves to penetrate and/or destroy at least part of the IED. In addition, an accelerator is provided, which accelerates the projectile when the device is actuated and propels it through a barrel. The accelerator is a cartridge filled with propellant. The cartridge is stored in a magazine and contains an initiator for initiating the acceleration. A primer, which is located at the base of the cartridge, serves as the initiator. Initiation occurs when the primer is struck by a firing pin.

Abstract: A shock-triggered warhead fragment transmitter is described. The transmitter is designed to radiate a pulse upon either detonation of the warhead or impact of the fragment with the target. The pulse energy is obtained by shock de-poling of a ferroelectric material and is radiated using a dipole antenna. Detection of the radiated pulses may be used to confirm detonation of the warhead and determine the time and location of the detonation and facilitate battle damage assessment.

Abstract: An armor module and an explosive material therefore, which explosive material is normally retained at a less sensitive position, and upon demand it is modified into a more sensitive position, where its initiation ability is upgraded and wherein the modification is carried out by heating the explosive material.