Abstract: The invention relates to a method of delaying a mechanism in a firearm and a delay unit for a projectile comprising i) a first and a second pressure chamber (3a, 3b) arranged to receive combustion gases in a firearm via at least one inlet (1a, 1b) arranged to each of said first and second pressure chambers (3a, 3b) following firing of a projectile ii) at least one outlet for transferring the combustion gases (4a, 4b), arranged to each of said first and second pressure chambers (3a, 3b), to a piston chamber in which a displaceable piston (6) is arranged dividing the piston chamber into a compartment (5b) having a volume V1 upstream the piston (6) and a compartment (5a) having a volume V2 downstream the piston (6), wherein said at least one outlet (4a, 4b) from the first and second pressure chambers (3a, 3b) are arranged to transfer said combustion gases to said compartments (5a, b) of said piston chamber to provide an overall pressure difference between compartments (5a) and (5b) pressing the piston (6) at an

Abstract: Provided is a rocket for artificial rainfall using an ejection hygroscopic flare, the rocket including: a rocket body configured to descend with a parachute after flight by thrust, and having a hygroscopic flare discharge outlet; a communication module installed in the rocket body, and configured to transmit and receive a launch command and an ejection command with a ground station; an ejection hygroscopic flare installed in the rocket body and filled with cloud seeds and a burning material therein; and a hygroscopic flare ejection device configured to separate and eject the ejection hygroscopic flare from an inside of the rocket body to an outside thereof.

Abstract: A method of producing a concussion device including providing a structure including a cavity, the cavity having a top opening; providing a first energetic charge disposed in a bottom portion of the cavity; providing an elongated member having a length, a width, and a thickness, with the length being greater than both the width and the thickness of the elongated member, the elongated member removably secured to the structure within the cavity and at least partially overlying the first energetic charge.

Abstract: A cracker including a central body, and a pair of opposing pull-formations frangibly connected to opposite ends of the central body. A window is disposed within the central body and is adapted for viewing contents of the cracker prior to opening or fracture of the cracker. A window frame and the central body are constructed to sufficiently resist deformation or failure such that longitudinal opening force applied to the cracker results in the separation of a pull-formation prior to deformation or destruction of the central body.

Abstract: New forms of suppressive gunfire decoys are provided. In some aspects, a pin-pull device may be used to program and adjust several settings of the decoy devices, activating such devices immediately before deployment. In some aspects, the pin-pull device may serve as a remote control unit. In a preferred method of deployment, the devices are thrown to a location different from that occupied by the user(s), simulating another source of gunfire, distracting and misleading an enemy, and providing the effects of suppressive fire. In some embodiments, a networked computer system(s) may be used as a remote control unit, and the decoy device may include cameras and other sensors for tactical surveillance. In still other aspects, the gunfire decoy device may be capable of locomotion, and may be self-relocating in response to certain commands, or in reaction to stimuli, to confuse the enemy regarding sources of gunfire and troop locations.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a pattern-character firework carrier (101), a pattern-character display method, and a pattern-character firework setting-off step. The pattern-character firework carrier (101) is provided with a lifting-off device (201) which is provided with a lifting-off gunpowder bin (1) with lifting-off gunpowder (6) packaged inside, and a pattern-character display control device (301) which is provided with a lattice gunpowder packaging body (2) provided with a firework launching unit (4) and a simultaneous ignition bin (3). The pattern-character display method comprises steps of designing a pattern, converting the pattern into a color lattice graphic (12), arranging fireworks according to the graphic, loading the fireworks, and the like.

Abstract: The invention relates to a smoke payload apparatus, particularly a smoke payload ejection apparatus housed within a common carrier payload delivery shell, with a frangible safety link. There is provided a smoke screen munition comprising a shearable tail unit, a main body which comprises a payload cavity for receiving a smoke payload apparatus, a fuze, an ogive element located between said main body and the fuze, and an explosive train operably connected to said fuze, wherein the smoke payload apparatus comprises a plurality of unconfined portions of a smoke generating energetic material, wherein said portions burn on at least two surfaces.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic device including a combustion chamber including a wall, the combustion chamber containing combustible powder; an ignition source adapted to ignite said combustible powder within said combustion chamber; wherein the wall of the combustion chamber is adapted to burst at a predetermined pressure caused by combustion of the combustible powder; wherein the combustion chamber is disposed within a launch structure beneath a projectile and wherein a preselected amount of free space volume is disposed between said combustion chamber and said projectile.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic launcher that comprises at least one pyrotechnic launching tube (1), at least one frame which comprises cover (2), and in which said pyrotechnic launching tube (1) is prepared for housing inside it at least one pyrotechnic device (8); in which said pyrotechnic launching tube (1) comprises at least two openings located at its top and bottom ends that enable the introduction and deployment of the pyrotechnic device (8), both through its top opening and its bottom opening, in which at least one locking element (3) holds said pyrotechnic device (8); and in which the internal face of said pyrotechnic launching tube (1) comprises some interlocking means (17a) which enable locking said pyrotechnic device (8) in a direct manner or by means of an intermediate element, through some locking means (17b, 17b?) pertaining to said pyrotechnic device (8).

Abstract: The invention relates to a fireworks bomb structure and manufacturing method thereof comprising a cover combining with an upper shell and an lower shell to form a filing chamber for accommodating effect fire powder, a sealing body combining with a base and the lower shell to form a propulsive chamber for accommodating launch powder which is interconnected to the filing chamber, and a long internal fuse with powder at both ends respectively extending to the filing chamber and propulsive chamber; thus the present invention provides a modular combination for easily filling the launch powder and effect fire powder respectively into the chambers by reversing a mold, achieving effects of timed detonation, manufacturing convenient and target accuracy.

Abstract: An electric match assembly for initiating a pyrotechnic device, the electric match assembly comprising an element for connection to a leader carrying the signal; a first electric match component for connection to the lift charge of the pyrotechnic device, the first electric match component connected to the element such that when the element is connected to the leader and the first electric match component is connected to the lift charge, the signal in the leader is applied to the lift charge; a second electric match component for connection to the time fuse connected to the burst charge of the pyrotechnic device, the second electric match component connected to the element such that when the element is connected to the leader and the second electric match component is connected to the time fuse, the signal in the leader is applied to the time fuse of the burst charge.

Abstract: An activation unit (1, 10) for munitions-free decoys, active masses or active bodies (3) is characterized by an ejector tube (2) and a high-powered heater element (4) arranged around the ejector tube (2, 12), wherein the heater element is made up of at least one heating wire (6), provided with electrical current by a regulator unit. Each heating wire (6) is enclosed in a sleeve (7) and embedded in at least one heat-loss minimizing material. The active body (3) passing through the activation unit (1,10) directly or indirectly contacts with the individual elements (4) of the activation unit (1, 10). Thermal energy is transmitted to the active body (3) from the heating wires (6), which ignites at the touching or contact point.

Abstract: An improved, multiple-use fireworks launcher (10) is provided for the launching of fireworks such as an artillery shell (40) having a lower lift charge (42) and an upper effect charge (44). The launcher (10) includes a base (12), with an upstanding, open-top launch tube (14) operably coupled with the base (12). A reinforcing section (16) is positioned about the lower end of launch tube (14), and preferably comprises a tubular sleeve (36) tightly secured to the outer surface (32) of launch tube (14). The combined thickness of the tube (14) and section (16) are sufficient to prevent catastrophic failure of the launcher (10) in the event a shell (40) is improperly placed within the tube (14) in an inverted condition with the lift charge (42) thereof positioned over the effect charge (44).

Abstract: A pyrotechnic launcher that comprises at least one pyrotechnic launching tube (1), at least one frame which comprises cover (2), and in which said pyrotechnic launching tube (1) is prepared for housing inside it at least one pyrotechnic device (8); in which said pyrotechnic launching tube (1) comprises at least two openings located at its top and bottom ends that enable the introduction and deployment of the pyrotechnic device (8), both through its top opening and its bottom opening, in which at least one locking element (3) holds said pyrotechnic device (8); and in which the internal face of said pyrotechnic launching tube (1) comprises some interlocking means (17a) which enable locking said pyrotechnic device (8) in a direct manner or by means of an intermediate element, through some locking means (17b, 17b?) pertaining to said pyrotechnic device (8).

Abstract: A pyrotechnic device including a combustion chamber including a wall, the combustion chamber containing combustible powder; an ignition source adapted to ignite said combustible powder within said combustion chamber; wherein the wall of the combustion chamber is adapted to burst at a predetermined pressure caused by combustion of the combustible powder; wherein the combustion chamber is disposed within a launch structure beneath a projectile and wherein a preselected amount of free space volume is disposed between said combustion chamber and said projectile.

Abstract: A remote pyrotechnic ignition system includes a power supply for producing an electrical current in a transmitting induction coil to induce an electrical current in a receiving induction coil for igniting a pyrotechnic device. Thus, a wireless ignition communication section allows pyrotechnic mortars to be reused and substantially reduces set-up time by eliminating the wiring of fireworks normally required for a pyrotechnic production. Optionally, a capacitor is charged by the power source via a charging circuit and discharged via a firing circuit to produce the electric current in the transmitting coil in a pulse. The capacitor provides a two-stage firing safety feature. An electronic control device such as a circuit board may be mounted on the pyrotechnic device for controlling ignition of the pyrotechnic device and is especially useful in controlling ignition sequencing and overall ignition timing of a lift charge and burst charge of the pyrotechnic device.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for controlling the launch and burst of pyrotechnic projectiles in a pyrotechnic, or “fireworks”, display.

Abstract: The invention relates to a safety device (1) for a block of explosive material, forming a missile decoy, that is introduced into an explosive material container (2) with a sabot (4) and an ignition transmission charge (5). The safety device (1) is characterized by a prestressed tube sensor/slide (6) that is connected between the sabot (4), the ignition transmission charge (5) and the explosive material container (2) such that it can release or re-close an ignition channel (13) disposed between the ignition transmission charge (5) and the explosive material.

Abstract: Some embodiments pertain to a projectile that includes a propellant and a casing that encloses the propellant such that the casing acts as a reaction chamber during flight of the projectile. The casing includes a plurality of flechettes. When the projectile strikes (or is near) a target, a large internal sheer pressure forms within the casing. This sheer pressure causes the flechettes to sheer apart at the thinnest sections of the casing. Once the thin sections of the casing are sheered apart, the flechettes will be unconstrained such that the flechettes take individual flight paths.

Abstract: An improved, multiple-use fireworks launcher (10) is provided for the launching of fireworks such as an artillery shell (40) having a lower lift charge (42) and an upper effect charge (44). The launcher (10) includes a base (12), with an upstanding, open-top launch tube (14) operably coupled with the base (12). A reinforcing section (16) is positioned about the lower end of launch tube (14), and preferably comprises a tubular sleeve (36) tightly secured to the outer surface (32) of launch tube (14). The combined thickness of the tube (14) and section (16) are sufficient to prevent catastrophic failure of the launcher (10) in the event a shell (40) is improperly placed within the tube (14) in an inverted condition with the lift charge (42) thereof positioned over the effect charge (44).

Abstract: An electric match assembly for initiating a pyrotechnic device, the electric match assembly comprising an element for connection to a leader carrying the signal; a first electric match component for connection to the lift charge of the pyrotechnic device, the first electric match component connected to the element such that when the element is connected to the leader and the first electric match component is connected to the lift charge, the signal in the leader is applied to the lift charge; a second electric match component for connection to the time fuse connected to the burst charge of the pyrotechnic device, the second electric match component connected to the element such that when the element is connected to the leader and the second electric match component is connected to the time fuse, the signal in the leader is applied to the time fuse of the burst charge.

Abstract: A combined firework is disclosed. In the combined firework, several tubular holes whose central longitudinal axes are parallel to each other are uniformly distributed in a body, the tubular holes have openings upward and bottom ends closed. The closed end of the bottom of each tubular hole is provided with two small through holes penetrating through the bottom of the body and respectively provided with an inward fuse and an outward fuse in series connection. The body, the tubular holes and the small through holes thereof are an integrally molded structure. On the bottom in the tubular hole propellant powder is provided and connected with the outward fuse and the inward fuse. On the propellant powder an inner cylinder or effect powder is provided.

Abstract: Apparatuses, vehicles, and methods to reduce loads applied to a store when the store is launched from the vehicle are disclosed. A particular apparatus includes a launch chamber and a flap. The launch chamber has a first portion configured to receive a store. A second portion is configured to be positioned over an opening in a hull of a vehicle. The chamber has a forward end and an aft end. The flap is positioned a distance from the aft end of the launch chamber. The flap has a first end rotatably mounted proximate to the first portion of the launch chamber and has a second end extending toward the second portion of the launch chamber. The flap is configured to rotate about the first end when the store impacts the flap due to the forces applied to the store by the fluid when the store is launched.

Abstract: The present invention relates to decoys for heat-seeking missiles and methods of producing and using the same. The decoys are designed to be kinematic or pseudo-kinematic, producing one or more infra-red radiation emitting clouds that give the appearance of a moving infra-red target in the airspace in which the decoy has been released.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic ignitor. The ignitor includes a break charge and a voltage storage component in communication with the break charge, wherein the voltage stored in the voltage storage component is for firing the break charge when the voltage is communicated to the break charge. The ignitor further includes a processor in communication with the voltage storage component, wherein the processor is configured to delay transmission of the voltage stored in the voltage storage component for a predetermined time.

Abstract: An electrical power disruption device including a projectile configured to be propelled upwardly from a hand-held launcher and receiving a plurality of electrically conductive streamers.

Abstract: Electric match assembly for initiating a pyrotechnic device in response to a signal, the assembly comprising a first element for connection to a leader carrying the signal; a first electric match component for connection to the lift charge of the pyrotechnic device, the first electric match component being connected to the first element such that when the first element is connected to the leader and the first electric match component is connected to the lift charge, the signal is applied to the lift charge; a second electric match component for connection to the time fuse connected to the burst charge of the pyrotechnic device, the second electric match component being connected to the first element such that when the first element is connected to the leader and the second electric match component is connected to the time fuse, the signal is applied to the time fuse of the burst charge.

Abstract: A pyrotechnically powered actuator having a bellows that provides a force and stroke upon initiation is disclosed. The actuator includes a housing body with a first end and a second end. The bellows is coupled to the first end of the housing body. A cover is coupled to the second end of the housing body. An initiator is located within the housing body and includes a pyrotechnic material and a bridge element. The housing body, the bellows, and the cover define a hermetically sealed chamber. The bellows is compact, lightweight, and can withstand internal and external pressure at least as high as 3,000 psi. An exemplary embodiment includes a housing body that provides a compartment for adding supplemental pyrotechnic material. Further exemplary embodiments of the actuator include a chip initiator that requires less than 1 amp to function in less than 10 milliseconds.

Abstract: The present invention relates to decoys for heat-seeking missiles and methods of producing and using the same. The decoys are designed to be kinematic or pseudo-kinematic, producing one or more infra-red radiation emitting clouds that give the appearance of a moving infra-red target in the airspace in which the decoy has been released.

Abstract: A dispenser for a platform, configured to be mounted to the platform and connected to power- and control-systems of the platform. The dispenser includes a magazine for a plurality of pyrotechnic countermeasure cartridges. The magazine is configured for removable fixation to the dispenser by one single fixing bolt in a central location thereof for securing the magazine to the dispenser in an operative mode. A first lock associated with the dispenser and a second lock associated with the magazine are configured to arrest the fixing bolt in interlocking engagement with the first lock and preventing the fixing bolt from coming loose due to environmental influence.

Abstract: A method of disrupting electrical power transmission including the steps of launching a projectile from a hand-held launcher, ejecting a plurality of electrically conductive members from the projectile, and bridging electrical contacts of power transmission equipment.

Abstract: A method for launching counter-measures from a launch opening of a dispenser mounted on an aeroplane. The counter-measures are launched in a direction obliquely forwards and downwards relative to the aeroplane. In order to facilitate launching of counter-measures, a low dynamic pressure is created permanently across the launch opening of the dispenser by a fixed element acting on the air stream. An arrangement for storing and launching counter-measures including an elongate body provided with at least one launch opening used for storing the counter-measures in compartments. The arrangement is designed to be mounted on an aeroplane with the longitudinal direction of the elongate body essentially coinciding with the flight direction of the aeroplane. The counter-measures are connected to a firing control unit for feeding firing signals to the counter-measures. The arrangement is designed to be mounted under the aeroplane.

Abstract: Stores launch tubes and vehicles equipped with stores launch tubes are disclosed. According to a particular illustrative example, a stores launch tube includes a tube member and a flexible seal. The flexible seal couples an exterior of the tube member to a hull. The flexible seal acts as a pressure barrier against an ambient environment.

Abstract: A dispenser system provides a means to automatically deploy systems using a controlled dispense approach capable of providing desired operational flexibility. Components such as unattended ground sensors (UGS) are deployed according to a method which includes incorporating the components into an elongated ejection system to form a payload assembly, the ejection system including axially-displaced ejector bays each for holding respective components. Each ejector bay retains the respective components until a respective ejection event upon which the ejector bay ejects the components in a radial direction. The payload assembly includes a stabilizer such as a drogue parachute that substantially prevents the payload assembly from rotating about its elongated axis. A timing sequence for the ejection events is programmed into the ejection system to achieve a desired coverage pattern of the components after deployment.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for controlling the launch and burst of pyrotechnic projectiles in a pyrotechnic, or “fireworks”, display.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for deterring birds from flying into airspace above airport runways. The system features at least one mortar for firing a pyrotechnic device to produce a light and sound display for the purpose of disturbing, frightening, and harassing birds so as to deter them from flying into airspace above and in the vicinity of an airport runway. The mortars of the system can be installed on a mounting platform capable of being securely connected to the ground or a ground surface substrate or to a vehicle. Fixed position, movable and portable embodiments of the system may be created and used. The light and sound display produced by the exploding pyrotechnic devices can be varied to prevent the birds from becoming desensitized to the sounds and visual effects of the system. The system may also include deterrent chemicals.

Abstract: A pyrotechnically powered actuator having a bellows that provides a force and stroke upon initiation is disclosed. The actuator includes a housing body with a first end and a second end. The bellows is coupled to the first end of the housing body. A cover is coupled to the second end of the housing body. An initiator is located within the housing body and includes a pyrotechnic material and a bridge element. The housing body, the bellows, and the cover define a hermetically sealed chamber. The bellows is compact, lightweight, and can withstand internal and external pressure at least as high as 3,000 psi. An exemplary embodiment includes a housing body that provides a compartment for adding supplemental pyrotechnic material. Further exemplary embodiments of the actuator include a chip initiator that requires less than 1 amp to function in less than 10 milliseconds.

Abstract: An apparatus that provides shock absorption and ejection for a payload that is to be deployed from a launch capsule is disclosed. The payload ejection mechanism comprises a movable housing that houses a resilient member and a shock-damping system. The rapid acceleration of the capsule upon launch causes the movable housing to move, which compresses the resilient member, thereby storing energy. Movement of the housing also provides shock damping behavior. A locking mechanism maintains the compression of the resilient member until the capsule opens to deploy the payload. As the capsule opens, a restraint decouples from the locking mechanism and permits the resilient member to expand. Expansion of the resilient member causes the movable housing to move, thereby propelling the payload away from the capsule.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for controlling the launch and burst of pyrotechnic projectiles in a pyrotechnic, or “fireworks”, display.

Abstract: An exemplary stores launch tube includes an outer tube and an inner tube. The inner tube is disposed interior the outer tube and is configured to reduce load as a store exits therefrom. The inner tube may be made of a flexible material. At least one load-reducing device may be disposed between the inner tube and the outer tube. The inner tube may be received within a canister that has an outer casing that is attachable to the outer tube. Alternately, the inner tube may be attached directly to the outer tube. The inner tube may include more than one tube section. If desired, filler material, such as foam, may be disposed between the inner tube and the outer tube. The outer tube may have a substantially circular cross-section, or an oval cross-section, or any cross-section as desired to accommodate structural considerations.

Abstract: Pyrotechnic systems and associated methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, a pyrotechnic system includes a combustible material in a housing having a first and second portion. The first portion of the housing can have an inlet for receiving combustion products and the second portion can have an outlet to propagate combustion between the second portion of the housing and the combustible material. The system can further include a combustible carrier material movable from the first portion of the housing to the second portion of the housing. The combustible carrier material can be ignited in a first portion of the housing and capable of sustaining combustion while being moved to the second portion of the housing. Additional embodiments can include a seal positioned to block a migration of combustion products between the first and second portions of the housing when the combustible carrier material is in the first portion of the housing.

Abstract: Molten droplets of a metal fuel, such as aluminum, are dispersed into air or water for a reaction releasing energy for military or other purposes. In one warhead embodiment, a cylinder of solid metal is disposed within a ceramic heat insulator; heaters of thermite-like material are embedded in the metal; and an explosive dispersing charge is disposed around or at one end of the cylinder. On activation, the heaters are ignited to melt the metal, and the charge then detonated to disperse droplets of the molten metal. In a related embodiment, the metal and heaters are within a containment having an atomizing nozzle at one end and, oppositely of the metal from the nozzle, a piston and gas generator. When the metal is melted, the gas generator is activated to expel molten metal droplets from the nozzle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to decoys for heat-seeking missiles and methods of producing and using the same. The decoys are designed to be kinematic or pseudo-kinematic, producing one or more infra-red radiation emitting clouds that give the appearance of a moving infra-red target in the airspace in which the decoy has been released.

Abstract: A multiple stage pyrotechnic shell apparatus is disclosed. The invention has enhanced efficiency to increase lift and reduce the risk of one or more of the charges from exploding near the ground. The enhanced efficiency is obtained through the novel use of shaped breaks that conform to the shape of the inner surface of the shell's launch tube, and in particular through the use of cylindrically shaped breaks in round launch tubes. In addition, the present invention further enhances efficiency by configuring the breaks such that all the breaks weigh the same or the upper breaks weigh more than the lower breaks in the launch tube.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for controlling the launch and burst of pyrotechnic projectiles in a pyrotechnic, or “fireworks”, display.

Abstract: Apparatus within a warhead for expelling a payload from the rear of the warhead after a tail assembly has been removed. A separate thrust chamber within the warhead has an apertured thrust tube at one end which extends into the thrust chamber and a pusher plate at the other end for propelling the payload. The thrust chamber includes a propellant which, when ignited generates high pressure gas causing a rocket effect out the thrust tube to move the pusher plate and associated payload. The pusher plate may be disconnected from the thrust chamber to slow the expulsion process.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic display device configured to ignite solid pyrotechnic compositions or aerial shells within a launch tube prior to propelling them on a desired arc. A smokeless pyrotechnic propelling charge is disposed within the launch tube below the solid pyrotechnic compositions, and separated therefrom. An ignition source is disposed in operative relationship to the pyrotechnic compositions or aerial shells, which are ignited prior to ignition of the smokeless pyrotechnic propelling charge.

Abstract: A smoke shell (10) which includes a shell casing (12), an ogive (14) fixed to the shell casing (12) and a base (22) releasably connected to the shell casing (12). The ogive (14) has a time fuse (18) operatively connected to an ejection charge (20). A number of smoke pots (26) are provided in the shell casing (12) adjoining each other and the base (22) and an ejection plate (28). An ignitor charge (30) is mounted to the ejection plate (28) in the proximity of the ejection charge (20).

Abstract: A projectile carrying sub-munitions which may exhibit orientational sensitivity utilizes a resilient member to prevent individual grenades from rotating out of the desired orientation. As a skilled artisan would readily understand, the sub-munitions is one type of rotationally sensitive device. Other types of rotationally sensitive devices include but are not limited to grenades, grenade fuses and sub-munition fuses. In the described embodiments, artillery shells carrying grenades packed in circular arrays around a central longitudinal axis may exhibit orientational sensitivity with some types of slide fuses, such that an optimal orientation is that the slide fuse faces outwardly along a radial line from the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for controlling the launch and burst of pyrotechnic projectiles in a pyrotechnic, or “fireworks”, display.