With Means To Eject An Object From A Casing Patents (Class 102/357)
  • Patent number: 5076171
    Abstract: A bomblet carrier projectile for delivering training bomblets to a target area. A plurality of training bomblets are supported in layers within the projectile body, with each training bomblet having a housing made of at least one of paper and plastic. A plurality of supporting elements are disposed within the projectile body and stackable in the axial direction of the projectile body for supporting the training bomblet housings in the layers. A detonator is arranged in a frontal region of the projectile body. A gas passage channel is formed along the longitudinal axis of the projectile body. An ejector unit is disposed behind the detonator and includes an ejection charge for emitting ignition gases when ignited by the detonator that are passed through the gas passage channel for igniting the training bomblets and an ejection plate for ejecting the training bomblets from the projectile body, over a target area, in response to pressure generated by the ignition gases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbH
    Inventors: Ernst-Wilhelm Altenau, Siegmar Fischer, Margret Palten
  • Patent number: 5074218
    Abstract: A grenade with dual fuses for simulating small arms fire comprises: a hollow cylindrical housing including a first threaded end and a second open end; a main filler charge being located within the housing proper; means for covering the end of the main filler charge which is adjacent the housing open end; means being compressively connected to the housing open end for securing the main filler charge within the housing; a main igniting fuse being fitted onto the housing threaded end; a cup shaped member being located inside the housing in between the main igniting fuse and the main filter charge; a propelling charge being located in between the cup shaped member, the housing threaded end, and the main igniting fuse; a first straight fuse being responsive to the main igniting fuse and being located in between the main igniting fuse and the main filler charge; a second L-shaped fuse being responsive to the main igniting fuse and being located in between the main igniting fuse, the propelling charge, and the cup s
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Inventor: Joseph Castro
  • Patent number: 5074214
    Abstract: Method for air dispersion of filamentary type organic material from an initial compressed form comprising a component of a propellant and/or air-activated shell-like structure.An invention comprised of a plurality of compressed filamentary organic materials, a vehicle for storing and dispersing said materials and a method for effecting air dispersion of such materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Assignee: Hercules Incorporated
    Inventor: Fevzi Zeren
  • Patent number: 5060574
    Abstract: A projectile base plug with enhanced separation capability has a body which fits into an end of a spinning projectile casing and drag-producing vanes being spaced apart about the circumference of the object and pivotally mounted thereto for movement between stowed and deployed positions. Upon ejection of the base plug from the projectile casing, the vanes are released from stowed positions within the aerodynamic outline of the base plug where they have no substantial effect on the flight of the projectile, to deployed positions by centrifugal force generated by the spinning body where they project into the air stream and produce drag on the ejected base plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Assignee: Honeywell Inc.
    Inventors: John P. Glish, Bernard F. Bickman
  • Patent number: 5044281
    Abstract: A flare (1) for submarine use. The flare (1) is caused to be deployed from a submarine location where it will rise to the surface of the water because of its buoyant casing. A hydrostatic valve means (147) is provided within the casing and it opens when the flare is at or near the surface of the water to render said flare ready to project a flare composition (5) into the air. The hydrostatic valve means (147) is held inoperative by a latch mechanism (51) which is tripped as the flare is deployed from a firing tube at the submarine location. The flare composition (5) cannot be projected into the air until the flare (1) is within a range of vertical attitude determined by inclination means (13). The flare composition (5) cannot be projected into the air until the nose is above water. The flare (1) thus has a sensor (23) at its forward nose to determine that the nose is above the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Assignee: The Commonwealth of Australia
    Inventors: Peter Ramsay, Brian W. Whiffen, Gerald M. Bushnell, Victor Nanut, Robert C. Czigledy, Robert J. Swinton, Maxwell J. Coxhead, Timothy R. Clarke
  • Patent number: 5042389
    Abstract: A large-caliber carrier projectile for transporting a payload, with the projectile including an ejection charge and an ejector plate for ejecting the payload from the carrier projectile over a target area. To overcome the problem of the ejector plate colliding with individual bomblets of the payload, and thus causing considerable interference with proper functioning or premature detonations in the air, the ejector plate is an eccentric center of gravity. Alternatively, the ejector plate may be segmented and composed of at least two separable parts which are separated by the action of centrifugal force after ejection from the carrier projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1991
    Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbH
    Inventors: Udo Sabranski, Wolfgang Hoffmann, Siegmar Fischer, Gunter Sikorski, Ulrich Theis, Joachim Fiebrich, Lutz Borngen, Ulf Hahn
  • Patent number: 5040465
    Abstract: The invention relates to a projectile for launching and dispersing electromagnetic decoys. The projectile essentially comprises a sleeve which co-operates with a sleeve cap to form a case open at one end. The sleeve contains a decoy carrying piston and is detachably closed by a closure member. The decoy carrying piston comprises shells in the form of cylindrical sectors which keep the decoys arranged in a multi-cell cylinder as long as the piston head is not outside the sleeve. Special shaping of the shells and radical springs produce simultaneous dispersion of all the shells when the projectile operates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1977
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Inventor: Louis Maury
  • Patent number: 5033385
    Abstract: Method for air dispersion of filamentary type organic material from an initial compressed form comprising a component of a propellant and/or air-activated shell-like structure.An invention comprised of a plurality of compressed filamentary organic materials, a vehicle for storing and dispersing said materials and a method for effecting air dispersion of such materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Assignee: Hercules Incorporated
    Inventor: Fevzil Zeren
  • Patent number: 5033388
    Abstract: In projectile bases (20) for carrier projectiles which are equipped with a cavity (26) on the side facing away from the projectile tail for, for example, a parachute, it may happen that the base plate (23) is axially bent through during firing. This causes the base body (22) to be radially constricted and contact is lost between the rotating band (27) disposed on the body (22) and the gun tube, frequently resulting in a gas breakthrough. To avoid the above-mentioned radial constriction in the region of the rotating band, the projectile base (20) is provided with a base plate (23) which is curved toward the tail of the projectile. The curved configuration of the base plate (23) makes it possible to produce radial widening in the rear projectile base region during firing so as to ensure gas tightness and spin transmission from the rotating band (27) even at high gas pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbH
    Inventors: Achim Sippel, Heinz-Josef Kruse, Klaus D. Karius, Michael Primus
  • Patent number: 5033390
    Abstract: A gas generator which may be used for ejecting submunitions. The gas generator comprises a diffuser chamber which is flanked by differently sized combustion chambers whereby three different ejection velocities may be achieved by firing only one of the combustion chambers or by firing both of them together. The generated gas is exited from the gas generator at the same central location, i.e., the centrally located diffuser chamber, to control submunition yaw and loading locations. The provision of combustion chambers at opposite ends of the diffuser chamber permits minimization of gas generator diameter, and a tie member in the diffuser chamber permits a non-complicated and inexpensive structure which is rugged and reliable. The gas generator may have other applications such as for inflating airbags for automobiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Assignee: Morton International, Inc.
    Inventors: Roy T. Minert, Larry K. Hansen, George F. Kirchoff, Donald R. Lauritzen
  • Patent number: 5020437
    Abstract: A plurality of separate projectiles is held together in a multiple shell or cluster shell, in the form of a stack. At least two parallel springy flat bands (7) extend lengthwise around the stack. The flat bands (7) are looped around the front end and the free band ends engage the rare end of the stack with hooks (9). A tensioning element engages and holds the hooks (9) and thus the bands (7) tightly to the stack. After the shell is fired the tensioning element is served, e.g. by a cutter (19) so that the flat bands (7) spring or flare open to release and distribute the separate projectiles. The release means is equipped to either cause release immediately after the shell has left the firing tube (4) or with a delay. A front end plate (16) and a rear end plate (17) may be arranged at the ends of the stack. Intermediate plates (26) may be arranged between adjacent projectiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1991
    Assignee: Messerschmitt-Boelkow-Blohm GmbH
    Inventors: Ulrich Rieger, Dieter Kalus
  • Patent number: 5005483
    Abstract: Disclosed are a method for the ejection of sub-munitions from a projectile with null or low inherent rolling speed as well as a projectile fitted out with means enabling this method to be applied. The front part of the projectile is separated from the rear part by the shifting of a piston in a tube under the action of a pyrotechnical charge. The combination, at this piston and this tube, of grooves, working together with indentations or with a rotating band, creates a rolling motion that is sufficient to communicate an ejection speed, perpendicular to the axis of the projectile, to the sub-munitions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1991
    Assignee: Thomson-Brandt Armements
    Inventor: Jean Deffayet
  • Patent number: 4991513
    Abstract: The invention is a carrier projectile 10 having a safety venting system wh prevents expulsion of the projectile cargo during accidental or inadvertent initiation of the expulsion charge 21. The venting system comprises a collar which closes vent holes when the projectile is fired. The normal activation sequence of the carrier projectile is firing to a predetermined range or time, activation of the expulsion charge thereby bursting open the carrier shell, and dispensing of the cargo. The venting system incorporated into the present invention precludes bursting of the carrier shell, even if the activation of the expulsion charge occurs, unless the vents have been closed by the actual firing of the projectile. The venting system provides a safety feature in the event that the projectile is subjected to fire or other thermal stress and in the event of a hot gun misfire the collar is operated by either angular acceleration or longitudinal acceleration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1991
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: James Malamas, Harvey M. Day
  • Patent number: 4922826
    Abstract: An active component of submunition for utilization from a carrier against different target objects, especially against semi-hard and hard or heavily armored target objects; as well as warheads for this purpose and flechettes which are preferably deployed over the targets through the intermediary of such warheads. The active component incorporates at least one warhead having flechettes, which is equipped with a propellant or propulsion mechanism for the acceleration of the warhead in the direction of effect for the flechettes, and with an ejector piston for additional acceleration of the flechettes through the ejection from the precedingly accelerated warhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 8, 1990
    Assignee: Diehl GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Jurgen-Michael Busch, Georg Stammel, Siegfried Rhau, Bernd Gundel, Karl Rudolf
  • Patent number: 4920887
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system for the holding of multiple warheads, placed in a missile rotating on its longitudinal axis and dropped in trajectory through an end of the missile. Each stage of the warhead includes at least two distinct parts which have to be separated laterally at the moment of dropping, the missile including a casing inside which the warhead is placed. For each stage, mechanisms to fix the parts at the said stage are arranged so that each stage forms a compact unit so as not to cause major radial stresses against the casing due to the centrifugal force created by the rotating missile. The fixing mechanisms are retractable at the moment when the parts are dropped, by means of inertia blocks that are subjected to the centrifugal force. The invention can be applied to sub-munitions and mortar shells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1990
    Assignee: Thomson-Brandt Armements
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Frehaut, Eric Magnaudet, Jean-Pierre Pineau
  • Patent number: 4917015
    Abstract: A fireworks rocket launch pad (10) for holding and aiming a rocket (12) as it is being launched. The rocket launch pad (10) comprises a rocket receiving member (30) which slidably receives and aims the rocket (12). The receiving member (30) is mounted on a base (16) which engages a supporting surface such as the ground, driveway or the like. The receiving member (30) and the base (16) can be adjusted for selecting the angle "A" at which the rocket is launched.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1990
    Inventor: Charles S. Lowery
  • Patent number: 4884508
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a spin-stabilized carrier projectile having a projectile base which is connected with a projectile body for carrying sub-ammunition projectiles, and a driving band arrangement connected respectively about the projectile base and about the projectile body for engaging the rifling of the gun barrel to impart spin respectively to the projectile base and the projectile body. The driving band arrangement includes a first partial driving band connected coaxially about the projectile base and a second partial driving band connected coaxially about the projectile body. This driving band arrangement reduces the spin forces transferred by the joint between the projectile base and the projectile body, thereby reducing the required joint strength. This in turn reduces the required ejection charge used to separate the projectile body and projectile base for release of sub-ammunition bodies contained in the carrier projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1989
    Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbH
    Inventors: Heinz-Josef Kruse, Klaus D. Karius, Achim Sippel
  • Patent number: 4854241
    Abstract: A spin stabilized carrier projectile comprising: a projectile body having a rear end; at least one submunition projectile disposed in, and ejectable from, the projectile body; and a projectile bottom disposed at, and ejectable from, the rear end of the projectile body, the projectile bottom having a side surface facing the submunition projectile and containing a recess, and a folded, expandable deceleration element for reducing the velocity and spin of the projectile bottom upon ejection from the projectile body, the deceleration element including a sheet of material fastened in the recess for producing air resistance, and the deceleration element being deployable from a folded condition to an expanded condition with the aid of rotation of the projectile bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1989
    Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbH
    Inventors: Reinhard Synofzik, Rolf Hellwig, Klaus D. Karius
  • Patent number: 4833961
    Abstract: For dispersing of rioters, an ammunition is used which includes a plurality of pieces of ice, which preferably, have a spherical shape and are fired at rioters by a firing equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1989
    Inventor: Ari Adini
  • Patent number: 4815390
    Abstract: A mortar carrier projectile that is characterized for its having a front body with a front head carrying a fuze, and a cylindrical rear body carrying the charge; a rear body of approximately a tapered head shape; a stabilizing tail joined to the rear body, and linking means between the front body and the rear body which fracture by shearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1989
    Assignee: Esperanza y Cia, S.A.
    Inventor: Jose G. Garcia
  • Patent number: 4796536
    Abstract: A system for chaff deployment which includes a compartmentalized platelet with the bottom of the compartments formed by preformed releasable tang springs and the top of the compartment by a releasable door. The door is released to open the chamber and the tang springs are thereafter released to eject and deploy the chaff contained in the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Acurex Corporation
    Inventors: Edward K. Yu, David W. Rogers
  • Patent number: 4793260
    Abstract: A spin-stabilized projectile includes a casing, a plurality of bomblets accommodated in the casing, filler pieces inserted between the casing and the bomblets, and a device for ejecting the bomblets by explosive force from the projectile at a predetermined point along a trajectory thereof. The filler pieces are of steel or tungsten and are distributed in the casing such that the projectile flies stably up to the point of ejection of the bomblets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1988
    Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbH
    Inventors: Heinz J. Kruse, Karin Fey, Klaus D. Karius, Harmut Schilling
  • Patent number: 4791870
    Abstract: A pyrotechnic assembly has an outer container for a plurality of pyrotechnic elements, each of which has a propellant charge, to propel the element out of the container, and a pyrotechnic charge, for example for producing a radiation-blocking screen. The container may be used as a fixed launcher for the elements or may itself be a projectile or missile from which the elements are ejected in flight. A plurality of different pyrotechnic charges may be included in the element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1988
    Assignee: Haley & Weller Limited
    Inventor: Geoffrey M. Simpson
  • Patent number: 4777882
    Abstract: A projectile forming the head of a carrier has a defined balllistic trajectory and contains sub-munitions ejected, at a given moment in the trajectory of the projectile, in a controlled direction. In the projectile, the sub-munitions are arranged so as to have a single direction, namely with the head of the sub-munition facing the front of the projectile, in one or more rows. In each row, the shells of the sub-munitions are tangential to one another and their fin systems ar placed in one another in a self-locking way. The projectile further comprises securing means among the sub-munitions and between these interstitial spaces are further filled with a powdery material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1988
    Assignee: Thomson-Brandt Armements
    Inventor: Gerard Dieval
  • Patent number: 4771696
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a large caliber, thinwall, cargo carrying, spin stabilized projectile of a type in which cargo is keyed to a projectile base member in order to preclude relative rotation between cargo and projectile during in-bore travel. In particular, the disclosure is directed toward an improved base closure method for the projectile including a method for transmitting in-bore torque through a base closure joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1988
    Inventor: John Smolnik
  • Patent number: 4770101
    Abstract: A sub-munition warhead contains several flechettes arranged in a circumferential pattern. A canister with a length less than that of the flechettes surrounds the rear ends of the flechettes. A frangible fairing extends from the canister to a small diameter nose cone. An indexer adjacent the nose cone and a sabot for each flechette retain the flechettes in position on a piston joining the canister and the nose cone. The warhead is normally launched with a rocket motor. It is spun so that on burnout, the warhead is travelling at high speed and spinning. On burnout, a fuze is ignited and the piston is propelled down the canister. This drives the flechettes forwardly, rupturing the fairing and allowing the flechettes to separate for independent flight to a target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1988
    Assignee: The Minister of National Defence of Her Majesty's Canadian Government
    Inventors: William J. Robertson, Maurice A. Laviolette
  • Patent number: 4750425
    Abstract: It is important with a sabot projectile to reliably fasten the projectile core or body in the sabot tail. This should be achieved without the need for circumferential grooves in the projectile core or body for fastening such projectile core or body in the sabot tail. Furthermore, the projectile core or body should be fastened in the sabot tail without the aid of the sabot jacket. This is achieved in that an attachment or fastening sleeve of the sabot tail extends to the substantially conical-shaped tip of the projectile core or body and bears against this substantially conical-shaped tip in order to prevent the projectile core or body from falling out of the sabot tail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1988
    Assignee: Werkzeugmaschinenfabrik Oerlikon-Buhrle AG
    Inventors: Hanspeter Sigg, Harald Katzmann
  • Patent number: 4736686
    Abstract: A missile having a kinetic energy warhead is disclosed comprising a two-tiered cutter element (12) of fragmenting material and a forward cutter ring (16). The arrangement is designed so that the forward cutter ring (16) penetrates the target outer skin while the two-tiered cutter element fragments and passes through the perforation made by the forward cutter ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1988
    Assignee: British Aerospace PLC
    Inventor: Ernest C. Martin
  • Patent number: 4726297
    Abstract: A projectile has a housing with a forward end a rearward portion. A pusher disc in the rear portion of the housing supports columns of submunitions which are urged forwardly by a forward force exerting compression spring toward bell means mounted in the forward end of the housing. A plurality of rods each have a shear portion adjacent their lower ends and a forward end connected to the bell and a lower end fixed connected to the rear end of the projectile. The forward force exerting spring urges submunitions forwardly against a front plate which is prevented from forward movement by engagement with the bell. Explosive means shear the rods and separate the forward portion of the housing from the tail portion and outward force exerting springs shift the forwardmost submunition outwardly after separation of the forward housing portion from the tail portion so that the forward force exerting spring moves the remaining submunitions forwardly for subsequent discharge from the projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1988
    Inventors: Leoncio M. Bueno, Rafael G. Perez
  • Patent number: 4719856
    Abstract: The pyrotechnic device comprises a projectile, a ground mounted device or a floating device whose casing contains a charge of titanium or other suitable combustible metal-containing material, charcoal, or other reducing agent and gunpowder such that, following ignition, infra-red emitting particles are emitted to form an infra-red radiating screen. The carbon reduces oxidation of the combustible material prior to emission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1988
    Assignee: Pains-Wessex Limited
    Inventor: Nigel F. Joslin
  • Patent number: 4719857
    Abstract: The pyrotechnic device comprises a projectile, a ground mounted device or a floating device whose casing contains a charge of particulate material, for example a combustible silicon-containing material in particular mixed with titanium or other suitable combustible metal-containing material and gunpowder such that, following ignition, infra-red emitting particles are emitted for forming an infra-red radiating screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1988
    Assignee: Pains-Wessex Limited
    Inventor: David J. Spring
  • Patent number: 4712482
    Abstract: A projectile with active components or energy-producing bodies which possesses a cylindrical sheathing wall, and which are maintained axially stacked between a projectile base and a projectile head or tip, and wherein there is provided an ejecting arrangement on the projectile for the ejection of the active components. The sheathing or wall structure of each active component is provided with at least two axially-parallel, through-extending bores, in which tie bolts are extended through the aligned bores of the sheathing wall structures of the active components, which tie bolts are fastened at one end thereof to the projectile base and at the other end thereof to the projectile head, wherein each tie bolt possess rupturing or breaking points in the region of the projectile base, in the region of the abutting location between two active components, and in the region of the projectile head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1987
    Assignee: Diehl GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Erich Bock, Gerald Rieger
  • Patent number: 4651648
    Abstract: A pyrotechnic, aircraft carried bomb such as a smoke bomb, illumination b, flare bomb and the like. The bomb comprises detachable delay and nose sections and two main body sections separable from each other and each holding a pyrotechnic charge. The tail section houses a braking parachute which is deployed by the action of a time fuze upon release from the carrier aircraft. The tail and nose sections further house each a main parachute associated each with one of the main body sections. After a certain delay the deployed braking parachute starts an ignition train which causes ejection of the tail and front sections, deployment of the main parachutes, separation of the two main body sections from each other and ignition of the pyrotechnic charges therein. The two main body sections parachute down and reach the ground in soft landing with the pyrotechnic charges burning during the descent and, if desired, they may be arranged to continue to burn for a while after landing, e.g. in case of a smoke bomb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1987
    Assignee: The State of Israel, Ministry of Defence, Israel Military Industries
    Inventor: Ely Alon
  • Patent number: 4646644
    Abstract: A pneumatic time delay valve primarily adapted for use in the ejection system of electronic or optical countermeasure devices and the like wherein an explosive squib is employed to create a momentary charge of high pressure gas used to depress the firing pin on the device to activate the device and also to push the device out of an ejection tube. The invention comprises means for splitting the pressurized gas into a first conduit communicating with the firing pin and a second conduit communicating with the device to apply the ejection pressure thereon and a time delay valve disposed within the second conduit for delaying the application of the gas to the device. During the time delay period, a piston is forced down a cylindrical bore forcing metering fluid through an orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1987
    Assignee: Sanders Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin R. Richmond, Mark A. Hayner
  • Patent number: 4624186
    Abstract: An infrared radiation-emitting projectile includes a casing and a contact head attached thereto, the casing containing an igniter-destructor capsule centrally positioned therein which contains an igniter-destructor charge, a layer of combustible flakes between the igniter-destructor capsule and the side wall of the casing, and an ignition-expediting material such as red phosphorus between the igniter-destructor capsule and the side wall of the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1986
    Assignee: Buck Chemisch-Technische Werke GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Axel Widera, Alois Schiessl, Walter Hanser, Peter Rayer, Klaus Hieke
  • Patent number: 4621579
    Abstract: Device for producing a series of consecutive decoy clouds, in particular infrared decoy clouds which move progressively away from the actual target, in which several projectiles (A, B, C, D, E, F, G) are arranged within a thin walled discharge tube (1), each projectile is practically of identical construction and has a separate ignition disintegrator unit (10) for disintegrating it and for igniting and scattering the combustible charge (18) to form a decoy cloud, a separate ejection chamber (27) provided with a propellant charge cartridge (28) is provided on each projectile, each propellant charge cartridge (28) can be ignited via a separate electrically actuated ignition lead (5) by means of a command controlled ignition distributor unit (69) and each projectile has a separate percussion fuse (47) for the ignition disintegrator unit (10) which can be actuated by releasing its safety device (360 mechanically, its safety device (36) only being released after ignition of the propellant charge cartridge (28) wit
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1986
    Assignee: Buck Chemisch-Technische Werke GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Wolfgang Badura, Gerhard Grau, Axel Widera, Kurt Adamek
  • Patent number: 4586439
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cartridge (1) for launching decoy material, for example chaff. The cartridge (1) contains several cassettes (11, 12, 13, 14), each cassette containing several payloads (15) with chaff or other passive and active decoys. An electronic ignition signal device (5) ensures that the payloads (15) and the cassettes (11, 12, 13, 14) may be launched in an arbitrary sequence. By means of the invention a compact cartridge is obtained which may contain a great number of payloads (10) and which has a high reliability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1984
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1986
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventor: Josef B. V. Wrana
  • Patent number: 4554871
    Abstract: A missile such as a projectile (11) carries at least two submunitions (13, 14) each of which has an active guidance capability. Each submunition (13, 14) has a forward end (21) which is slanted, creating an asymmetric shape for the submunition (13, 14). When the projectile (11) reaches a predetermined point in its trajectory, the submunitions (13, 14) are dispensed in a manner which causes the submunitions (13, 14) to acquire different flight paths. The guidance system on each submunition (13, 14) relies on the asymmetrical shape of the submunition (13, 14) to cause the submunition (13, 14) to precess about its center axis, thus creating an appropriate search pattern, such as a rosette search pattern. The asymmetric shape of the submunitions (13, 14) can also be used to control the flight path of the submunition (13, 14) after a suitable target has been acquired by the submunition's guidance system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1985
    Assignee: Allied Corporation
    Inventor: Richard G. Nixon
  • Patent number: 4549489
    Abstract: A cartridge for launching electromagnetic decoys with multiple charges comprises an elongated tube having an open upper end and a closed lower end, in which a plurality of flat holders, containing electromagnetic decoys are stacked over the length of the tube. At least one of the upper and lower surfaces of each flat holder is a conical surface in the shape of a flattened cone and each flat holder is provided in its lower part with a pyrotechnic charge able to project it upwards and to disperse the decoys. Each charge is connected to an adjacent charge by a pyrotechnic retarder and the upper most charge of the stack is provided with at least one pyrotechnic initiator, such that the arrangement formed by the initiator, the chargers and the retarders forms a continuous pyrotechnic chain, in order to allow, after detonation of the initiator, the successive ejection of the flat holders in a predetermined timed sequence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1985
    Assignee: Societe E. Lacroix - Tous Artifices
    Inventors: Alain Billard, Hubert Calmettes, Andre Santalucia
  • Patent number: 4505202
    Abstract: A projectile for dispersing a riot control agent material into the atmosphere at a target. The projectile is designed to open in flight and scatter a number of independent dispersal charges over a limited target area, and comprises a sabot in the form of a number of segments which are locked together prior to launching, which contains the dispersal charges and a delayed opening means which initiates opening in flight, thereby releasing the charges along approximately the same trajectory as the former projectile. In a preferred embodiment the sabot is cylindrical, in two segments hinged together at their rear end, locked together by either a collar or a pin and socket arrangement, and containing a number of cylindrical charges in line, with an axial channel. The projectile is fired from a gun, and firing initiates a pyrotechnic delay which activates an explosive or pyrotechnic charge in the channel and between the charges to open the sabot and activate and disperse the charges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1980
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1985
    Assignee: The Secretary of State for Defence in Her Britannic Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
    Inventors: John Fidler, John M. Green
  • Patent number: 4498392
    Abstract: An infrared decoy member is provided with a pyrotechnic chain for ejection and ignition incorporated in a unit. The ejection charge is mounted to slide in a cavity which allows the ejection of the unit as well as of adjacent infrared charges. A slide, which can be released when an acceleration threshold is crossed and on condition of ejection could ensure the transmission of fire to a transverse channel leading to useful charges. A second fire-transmitting chain which is independent, makes it possible to excite previously a similar decoy member located below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1982
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1985
    Assignee: Etienne LaCroix - Tous Artifices
    Inventors: Alain A. Billard, Hubert C. Calmettes, Roland C. Encoyand
  • Patent number: 4495868
    Abstract: There is disclosed a firecracker assembly comprising a casing member; and a firecracker member in the casing member. The firecracker member including a first powder portion and a first fuse attached thereto extending through the firecracker member and a second powder portion and a second fuse attached to said firecracker member, wherein the firecracker member is propelled out of the casing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 29, 1985
    Inventor: Johnnie V. Matthews
  • Patent number: 4438675
    Abstract: A cabling arrangement for secondary ammunition arranged in the form of at least two ammunition elements in series in a cylindrical casing of a distribution system and being ejectable therefrom. The cabling arrangement serves for supply of electrical energy and/or information to the secondary ammunition and includes a continuous electrical conductor system extending substantially in the longitudinal direction of the casing. The conductor system is provided with terminals correlated with the individual ammunition elements, the terminals establishing defined separating zones between the conductor system and the individual ammunition elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1981
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1984
    Assignee: Dynamit Nobel Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Klaus H. Fischer, Heinz Kroschel
  • Patent number: 4418624
    Abstract: An aerodynamic braking arrangement for projectile components which are to be salvaged, such as detonators, consisting of a drag parachute having a high air-resistance index and of cables which connect the projectile components with the parachute. The drag chute is formed as a brake basket which consists of two cup-shaped tops at the ends thereof constituted of metal or plastic material, which are separated from each other along the axial direction of the projectile through the intermediary of at least one space formed of metal or plastic material, wherein the cables are fastened to one of the tops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1981
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1983
    Assignee: Diehl GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Rauschert Willi, Bock Erich, Rieger Gerald
  • Patent number: 4391197
    Abstract: A smoke cartridge for producing instantaneous smoke, particularly for screening a vehicle. A casing, preferably made of aluminum, has a first elongated compartment in which a plurality of annular smoke elements are stacked one above the other with a common central opening passing through all of them. A second compartment adjacent the first compartment has a discharge composition therein and a mechanism for igniting the same. When ignited, the discharge composition causes a jet of flames to pass through the central opening between the smoke elements, igniting the latter. A further compartment contains a further discharge composition, preferably ignited after a delay, for propelling the entire casing after the smoke elements have been discharged therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1980
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1983
    Assignee: A/S Raufoss Ammunisjonsfabrikker
    Inventors: Kjell O. Jacobsen, Gudmund Engen
  • Patent number: 4374494
    Abstract: Electro-magnetic decoy-launcher ammunition has an external housing, which houses an impeller in its lower section and encloses a charge of electro-magnetic decoy material which can be ejected by a thrust device when the impeller is excited. The charge remains in its tubular transfer container, and the thrust device is mounted within the transfer container and comprises a semi-rigid disc actuated by a piston, fitted with a peripheral projection, which defines with the disc an annular housing for a split ring for taking up play and a felt washer ensuring that the device is fireproof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1980
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1983
    Assignee: Societe E. Lacroix-Tous Artifices
    Inventor: Louis Maury
  • Patent number: 4333402
    Abstract: A projectile (1) containing particles of interference material is fired pneumatically from a launching tube (2). Compressed air, which is supplied to the launching tube and acts on the rear face of the projectile during firing, is conducted both to a loading chamber (19) wherein the air pressure is maintained even after the projectile has left the firing tube, and also via the loading chamber to an expansion chamber (20) in which, after a specific time-lag corresponding with a certain launch height on the trajectory of the projectile, an over-pressure builds up which causes the expansion of the chamber to be initiated with simultaneous expulsion of the interference material from the projectile. The compressed air may also be conducted to the chamber (10) in the projectile wherein the interference material is accommodated, tightly packed, in order to enhance the dispersion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1979
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1982
    Inventors: Sven Landstrom, Kaj Lundahl
  • Patent number: 4307665
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to countermeasure systems, particularly to systems for providing a protective cover against homing and/or fire control devices operating upon infrared, sonar, or microwave reflected energy or for confusing search and tracking devices, and more particularly to decoy rounds and their method of fabrication. The decoy rounds include at least one load of energy generating material, means for propelling the load, a burst charge for shattering the load, the burst charge being constructed so as to cause a line type explosion, and means for igniting the burst charge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1967
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1981
    Assignee: General Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth A. Block, William M. Carter, George H. Schillreff
  • Patent number: 4294172
    Abstract: A projectile which includes a detonator recoverable to provide function control. A projectile upper portion fitted on a projectile shell carries the detonator. An aerodynamic brake arrangement is located within the projectile shell. A ram supported in the projectile shell has an ejector charge arranged adjacent thereto at the side opposite the projectile upper portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1979
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1981
    Assignee: Diehl GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Willi Rauschert, Gerald Rieger, Erich Bock, Alfred Eckel
  • Patent number: H959
    Abstract: A projectile and sub-projectile assembly including a centering tube positable within a chamber of the projectile to retain the sub-projectile positioned in the projectile. An expandable locking ring is positionable within the projectile through an opening in the rear of the projectile and engageable with a groove. A tube flange cooperates with the tube and the locking ring to maintain the locking ring within the groove and to fix the tube in a centered position substantially coaxial with the projectile. An expulsion piston arrangement is provided including sub-projectile engagement surfaces and sealing elements to seal the chamber from an expulsion charge chamber having an expulsion charge. Upon ignition of the expulsion charge, hot gases act on the piston which acts on the sub-projectile to disengage a base plug from the projectile to allow expulsion of the sub-projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: John E. Heckman, Joseph P. Van Dorn