Abstract: Projectiles are provided having a shell and; one or more actuators for providing thrust disposed inside of a wall of the shell; one or more ring portions forming at least a portion of the shell, the one or more ring portions having one or more actuators formed therein for providing thrust and/or one or more actuator stacks for providing thrust, the one or more actuator stacks each having two or more individual actuators for providing thrust.

Abstract: A mating and connection system for securing adjacent stages of a launch vehicle. The system includes a locking flange connected to each of a first vehicle stage and a second vehicle stage. A compression ring is positioned internal to the first and second vehicle stages. The compression ring is shaped to compress together the locking flanges of the first and second stages upon engagement with the locking flanges. A locking jack is capable of being activated from an exterior of the first and second stages and operates to selectively move the compression ring into and out of engagement with the locking flanges.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device for separating a propulsion system from a missile, the device including a locking unit configured to fix a propulsion system to a missile, a string disposed to cross a rear portion of the propulsion system to be broken by heat of the propulsion system, and an unlocking unit configured to unlock the missile by the broken string, whereby the number of additional components of an unlocking system can be reduced as many as possible so as to simplify the configuration of the apparatus, resulting in guaranteeing an enhanced performance of the missile, an easy assembly of the missile, and a reduction of a fabricating cost.

Abstract: An active vortex control system (AVOCS) includes a set of primary injectors that inject gas into a cavity to generate a vortex in front of and possibly around components inside the cavity. The vortex interferes with an external flow field in an opening to the cavity to protect the components from the external environment. Sets of secondary injectors may inject gas at a reduced mass flow into the cavity to compensate for energy losses to maintain the coherence of the vortex. The AVOCS is well suited for use in windowless endo- and exo-atmospheric interceptors to protect the electro-optical imagers and optical components from Earth atmosphere.

Abstract: The invention comprises devices for mitigating the explosive reaction of a munition when it is subject to an external thermal hazard threat. The devices are based on the use of shape memory alloys. In one arrangement there is device which consists of a connector that is at least in part formed from a shape memory alloy, which typically undergoes large dimensional changes when heated or cooled through a particular transition temperature range. The connector in this invention is designed to form a locking engagement, between two components of a munitions casing at one temperature, but when subjected to external heating through the transition temperature range will deform to allow the connector to disengage and thus release the two joined components, allowing any build up of pressure to be released quickly. Advantageously if the co-operative parts of the connector and components are threaded portions, then the locking engagement will be capable of being dismantled during normal servicing of the munition.

Abstract: A multi-stage vehicle separation system and method that facilitates an active separation on the booster by igniting a small quantity of propellant in the dead volume between the second stage rocket motor nozzle and the booster dome. In the most general embodiment, the invention includes a nozzle; a first fuel propellant disposed within the nozzle; a thermal barrier separating the first and second fuel propellant, an environmental seal protecting the second fuel propellant and an arrangement for activating the first fuel propellant. The nozzle is disposed in an upper stage of a two-stage vehicle. An arrangement such as a V-Band clamp is included for retaining the lower stage of the two-stage vehicle. Electronic commands release the lower stage and activate the first propellant in a timely manner to effectively separate the lower stage from the upper stage. The embedded propellant is activated with an arm fire device.

Abstract: A non-electrical intermetallic thermal sensor with trigger temperatures in a range of 360° F. to about 430° F., comprising, a hermetically sealed housing including at least one layer of electronegative metal disposed in the housing, wherein the electronegative metal comprises tin (Sn), and at least one layer of active lithium/magnesium alloy disposed in the housing, wherein each layer(s) of active lithium/magnesium alloy is disposed in abutting interface with each layer(s) of electronegative metal. The intermetallic thermal sensors of the present invention further include at least one diffusion barrier means for inhibiting the diffusion of the active lithium/magnesium alloy layer into the electronegative layer.

Abstract: A multi-stage missile with plural stages adapted to be physically coupled to and decoupled from adjacent stages and a processor disposed on a single stage for controlling each stage thereof. In the illustrative embodiment, the processor includes a field programmable gate array. In the illustrative embodiment, the processor is disposed on stage 4 of a four-stage missile and performs guidance and navigation functions for each stage and control functions for stages 2, 3 and 4. In a specific embodiment, a serial bus interface is included for coupling the processor to electronic circuitry on each of the stages of the missile. In the best mode, the interface is an IEEE 1394b interface with a physical layer interface and a link layer interface.

Abstract: In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, an aircraft having a scramjet engine is provided. The scramjet engine includes a flowpath which varies in three dimensions. In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, a method for launching an aircraft having a scramjet engine with a nozzle section and a solid rocket booster positioned within the nozzle section is provided. The method includes the steps of igniting the solid rocket booster to accelerate the aircraft to a speed at which the scramjet engine can operate, clearing the nozzle section by ejecting the solid rocket booster from the nozzle section upon exhaustion of the solid rocket booster; and injecting fuel into a flow of air passing through the scramjet engine and igniting the fuel and the air to provide thrust to the aircraft.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for a multiple part missile according to various aspects of the present invention may operate in conjunction with a first missile part having a first groove formed in a surface of the first missile part and a second missile part having a second groove. A snap ring may be configured to engage the first groove and the second groove.

Abstract: System for launching a missile from a launch region within the atmosphere of a planet, the missile being located within a flying vehicle before launching the missile, the system including a missile support coupled with the missile, and a foldable control-surface mechanism coupled with the missile support, the foldable control-surface mechanism being in a folded position before ejecting the missile support and the missile from the flying vehicle, the foldable control-surface mechanism moving from a folded position to an operational position after ejecting the missile support and the missile from the flying vehicle, wherein the foldable control-surface mechanism maneuvers the missile and the missile support to a predetermined orientation suitable for launching the missile, wherein the missile support is decoupled from the missile when the missile and the missile support are at the predetermined orientation, and wherein the missile is launched after reaching the predetermined orientation.

Abstract: A missile includes a payload assembly that has a pair of nosecones. The nosecones may be optimized for different environments and/or phases of flight, for example, having different shapes, different shell materials, different types of seals, and/or different separation mechanisms. The first (outer) nosecone may have a more streamlined shape, be made of more thermally-protective material, and may meet less stringent sealing requirements, than the second (inner) nosecone. Separation of the outer nosecone from the payload assembly may cause backward movement of a center of pressure of the payload assembly, bringing the center of pressure of the assembly closer to a center of gravity of the assembly. This may make the payload assembly easier to maneuver, for example, reducing or eliminating the need for intervention by an attitude control system, to maintain the payload assembly on a desired course.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a method and an arrangement for preventing explosives such as rocket engines from exploding while subjected to an external fire in an ammunition bunker. The basic principle underlying the invention is that the casing surrounding the explosive includes a number of parts which are held together by mounting components made from a shape memory alloy, the properties of which are selected in such a manner that these mounting components no longer hold the various parts of the casing together if the surrounding temperature rises to approach the ignition temperature of the explosive in the rocket engine.

Abstract: The center of pressure of a projectile is caused to move upon the occurrence of an event that changes the static margin, such as the jettisoning of a body previously attached to the projectile, as noted above. In particular embodiments, this is achieved by a flare disposed toward the rear of the projectile. The flare has petals that deploy from a first, stowed position to a second, deployed position upon the occurrence of said event. In the stowed position, the petals are aligned with the air stream, in order to minimize drag. In the deployed position, the petals project into the air stream in such a way as to move the lift center rearward. A slide ring within the flare has sufficient inertia that it shifts aft in response to an acceleration that occurs when the attached body and the projectile are separated from one another. The slide ring is linked to the petals in such a way that the petals are deployed by the displacement of the slide ring.

Abstract: A release mechanism between a projectile and a rocket motor in a missile. The projectile releases from the rocket motor during flight of the missile when the rocket motor burns out and aerodynamic retardation commences. The front end of the rocket motor comprises a forward closure, a lock retainer received and movable within the forward closure, at least one lock, at least one spring that biases the lock against the lock retainer in a direction opposite the to the direction of motion of the missile. The rear end of the projectile has a central boss surrounded by the forward closure of the rocket motor, wherein the boss comprises recesses or a circumferential groove in which the at least one lock lies and keeps the forward closure and the boss axially together.

Abstract: The two-payload decoy device has a square outer case, containing a manifold/delay body assembly, a round payload assembly, and a square payload assembly. The square outer case is closed with an end cap. The manifold/delay body assembly is attached to the round payload assembly, which rests against the square payload assembly. Firing a standard impulse cartridge ignites a booster pellet and delay element in the manifold/delay body assembly. Gases flow through openings in the manifold/delay body assembly and down the corner cavities between the round payload assembly and the square case, pushing the square piston against the square payload, which separates the end cap from the case and ejects the square payload. The delay element burns for a specific time, and then ignites a round payload expulsion charge, which creates gases that push the round piston against the round payload, which dislodges a retaining ring, and ejects the round payload.

Abstract: The center of pressure of a projectile is caused to move upon the occurrence of an event that changes the static margin, such as the jettisoning of a body previously attached to the projectile, as noted above. In particular embodiments, this is achieved by a flare disposed toward the rear of the projectile. The flare has petals that deploy from a first, stowed position to a second, deployed position upon the occurrence of said event. In the stowed position, the petals are aligned with the air stream, in order to minimize drag. In the deployed position, the petals project into the air stream in such a way as to move the lift center rearward. A slide ring within the flare has sufficient inertia that it shifts aft in response to an acceleration that occurs when the attached body and the projectile are separated from one another. The slide ring is linked to the petals in such a way that the petals are deployed by the displacement of the slide ring.

Abstract: A separating connector assembly system for a two-stage reusable launch vehicle. The system includes a plurality of separating connector assemblies each having a gas pressurizable first chamber within a first stage of the launch vehicle and a second chamber within a second stage of the launch vehicle. The system further includes a bolt and nut assembly including a bolt and a pressure-expandable nut, with the bolt projecting from the second chamber into the first chamber and engaged under atmospheric pressure with the nut which is disposed in the first chamber. Pressurized gas is made available from a single manifold in communication with each first chamber such that pressurized gas is simultaneously delivered to all first chambers for substantially simultaneously expanding all pressure-expandable nuts and releasing all respective bolts from these nuts for subsequent disconnected separation of the two stages.

Abstract: The center of pressure of a projectile is caused to move upon the occurrence of an event that changes the static margin, such as the jettisoning of a body previously attached to the projectile, as noted above. In particular embodiments, this is achieved by a flare disposed toward the rear of the projectile. The flare has petals that deploy from a first, stowed position to a second, deployed position upon the occurrence of the event. In the stowed position, the petals are aligned with the air stream, in order to minimize drag. In the deployed position, the petals project into the air stream in such a way as to move the lift center rearward. A slide ring within the flare has sufficient inertia that it shifts aft in response to an acceleration that occurs when the attached body and the projectile are separated from one another. The slide ring is linked to the petals in such a way that the petals are deployed by the displacement of the slide ring.

Abstract: A penetrator arrow projectile for launching by use of a launcher projectile which comprises a propellant charge and which may be separated from the arrow projectile in the trajectory. A “base-bleed” charge (2) is situated rearwardmost on the arrow projectile (1), in order to be ignited by means of an igniter device (3) in connection with the separation from the launcher projectile, which may comprise a forward igniter device for igniting the “base-bleed” charge (2). The launcher projectile may also comprise a mechanism for retaining the arrow projectile (1) on the forward end and for releasing the arrow projectile in the trajectory.

Abstract: A hold-down and release apparatus for a flight termination system having a terminal portion for holding-down and releasing a structural object which has an arrangement for attaching to the flight termination system. The hold-down and release apparatus includes several movable clamping segments provided on the terminal portion of the flight termination system that are engageable in a complimentary fashion with the attachment arrangement on the structural object for releasably attaching the structural object to the flight termination system. The hold-down and release apparatus also includes springs for biasing the movable clamping segments means in a disengaging direction that causes the clamping segments to disengage from the attachment arrangement on the structural object to release the structural object from the flight termination system.

Abstract: A translation and locking mechanism for a projectile that is lying in a standby position within a rocket motor in a missile, wherein the projectile is translated with respect to the rocket motor by means of a pyrotechnic charge before the rocket motor is ignited. The rear end of the projectile includes at least one radially spring biased lock and the front part of the rocket motor includes an internal circumferential groove that the at least one lock snaps into when the at least one lock is translated to the groove.

Abstract: A modular missile assembly includes a pair of modules which are separately transported and handled until just prior to firing, when they are coupled together. A forward payload-carrying module includes a forward canister which encloses a missile payload section, for example, consisting of a penetrator rod, fins, and ancillary sub-assemblies. An aft booster module includes a missile propulsion section, encased in an aft canister. Prior to firing, suitable forward and aft modules are selected, are individually loaded into a launch tube, and are coupled together. In this coupling the missile payload section and the missile propulsion section are coupled together to form a missile, and the forward and aft canisters are likewise coupled together to form a combined canister assembly. Division of the missile into separate payload and booster modules facilitates handling as compared to unitary missiles. The modular design also allows increased flexibility.

Abstract: The invention is a separation system for releasably securing first and second structural members together along mating edges thereof. For example, the segments of a launch vehicle faring used to protect the payload until orbit is reached. In detail, the invention includes a plurality of latches with each latch including a male portion mounted in proximity the edge of the first structural member and a female portion mounted on the second structural member in proximity to the edge thereof. A locking device is mounted on the second structural member in proximity to the edge thereof, movable from a locked position securing the male portion to the female portion to a second position unlocking the male portion from the female portion. An actuation device is provided for sequentially moving the locking device of each latch from the first position to the second position, unlocking the male portions from the female portions of the plurality of latches.

Abstract: A device for releasably connecting a first part and a second part of a spacecraft. A clamp is operable to releasably connect the first part and the second part of the spacecraft and to store a prestress strain energy releaseable upon separation of the first part and second part of the spacecraft. The clamp includes a first end and a second end. At least one energy storing system is operable to convert at least a portion of the prestress on the clamp to rotational energy upon opening of the clamp and separation of the first part and the second part of the spacecraft. The energy storing system includes a first fitting part that includes a threaded section, a second fitting part that includes a threaded section, and a connecting device that includes a threaded section complementary to and operable to engage the threaded section of the first fitting part and the second fitting part. The connecting device is operable to link the first end and the second end of the clamp.

Abstract: In detail, the system includes at least one first pulley mounted on the first structural member and at least one-second pulley mounted on the second structural member. A cable is attached by one end to the first structural member and wound about the first and second pulleys and is attached by its second end to the second structural member. Preferably there are two or more first and second pulleys with the cable alternately wound between said first and second pulleys with one end of cable attached to the first structural member and the opposite end attached to the second structural member. Thus the cable holds the first and second structural members together. A system to sever the cable is included, which upon actuation will sever the cable allowing the two structural members to separate.

Abstract: A tension-relieving apparatus for reducing a level of tension in a structure. The tension-relieving apparatus includes a housing, a piston, a spacer member and a heat source. The housing has a wall member that defines a piston cavity. A rod aperture is formed in a first end of the wall member. The piston assembly has a rod and a piston. The rod extends through the rod aperture. The piston is disposed in the piston cavity and is coupled to an end of the rod. The spacer member is disposed in the piston cavity and is coupled to the piston assembly. The spacer member is transformable between a first condition and a second condition, with the first condition maintaining the piston at a first distance from the first end of the housing.

Abstract: An ordnance venting system has an ordnance device having a casing with a vent opening, a dome plug fitted into the formed vent opening and an adapter fitted over the dome plug on the outside of the casing. The adapter connects sufficiently to the casing to retain the dome plug against the formed vent opening for given pressures. The adapter melts at high temperatures and releases the dome plug to reduce the danger of explosion from heat induced over-pressurization.

Abstract: A container subject to damage through inadvertent overheating and pressure build up such as a rocket casing containing a propellant which can be subjected to damage or inadvertent firing when the ignition temperature is achieved inadvertently includes a thermally actuated release mechanism. The rocket casing includes two sections which are mechanically latched. A thermally responsive material such as Nitinol is provided in a shape such that upon being subjected to a predetermined transition temperature lower than the ignition temperature of the rocket propellant, it changes shape so as to mechanically unlatch the rocket casing sections.

Abstract: A frangible access panel separation system for separating an access panel from a host structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system includes first and second doublers for initially interconnecting the first and second sections, an expandable explosive system contained in a cavity defined by the first and second doublers and first and second sections, and first and second staggered grooves positioned on the first and second doublers, the first and second doublers severable along break planes defined by the first and second staggered grooves to facilitate a substantially collision-free separation and ejection of the first section relative to the second section, and a detonator member for initiating detonation thereof.

Abstract: An aerospace vehicle for delivering a payload into space includes a first stage and a second stage with a plurality of separation assemblies coupling the first stage to the second stage. At least one container charged with pressurized gas in fluid communication with the separation assemblies provides pressurized gas to the separation assemblies to cause separation of the first stage and the second stage.

Abstract: A device for retaining an object and then releasing that object upon actuation, the device utilizing an actuator that resists less force than that exerted by said object, and is adapted for use with a V-band clamp.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of steering a vehicle, as well as to said vehicle allowing the method to be implemented.The method of steering such a vehicle including a propulsion system (2) and a jettisonable nose cone (8) containing a payload is noteworthy, according to the invention, in that, during the trajectory of said vehicle, the propulsion thrust of said vehicle (1) is temporarily interrupted in order to allow said jettisonable nose cone (8) to be ejected.

Abstract: The invention is a system for retaining a detachable capsule to a spacecraft, with the capsule having a heat shield with a peripheral edge. In detail; the system includes a plurality of detachable retention systems with each retention system including a first strut having first and second ends, with the first end rotatably attached to the spacecraft and said second end terminating in a clamp adapted to mate with a portion of the peripheral edge of the heat shield. A spring biases the first strut away from the capsule's heat shield peripheral edge. A second strut is pivotally attached by its first end to the spacecraft and the second end is attached by an explosively actuated fastener assembly mounted on the first strut at a point between the first and second ends thereof.

Abstract: System for attaching and separating satellites which comprises an open ring or metal band (1) which has a channel formed in its inner perimeter, in which jaws are integrated in a discontinuous way, which can slide in the said channel, two end pieces (5) fixed to the ends of the said ring, a tensioning bolt (4) which joins the two end parts, and three supports for retaining the ring (1) which are fixed to the structure of the launcher (3) of a satellite (2). The invention can be applied to artificial satellites of any weight and size.

Abstract: The disclosed launch systems are formed from mass producible elements that integrate propulsion, pneumatics and structural systems. In one embodiment, a launch system (10) includes multiple stages (12-16) where each stage includes a number of generally wedge-shaped segments (54). Alternating segments (54) form liquid fuel and oxidizer tanks. Each fuel and oxidizer tank pair is associated with a thruster (70). The resulting plurality of thrusters (70) are disposed about a common aerospike thrust structure (30-34). The segments (54) are connected to an internal, hollow structural spine (26) that can also interface with an internal umbilical tower (46). The segments (54) together with their associated thrusters and related components can be mass produced, thereby increasing competition among suppliers, reducing design costs and timeframes.

Abstract: A weapon transport device transports along a path toward a target in hostile territory, (1) a target-intended weapon and (2) biological, chemical and/or radioactive agents for attacking the occupants of such territory should they execute countermeasures against the weapon transport device. Separation of the biological, chemical and/or radioactive agents is initiated or, where appropriate, inhibited, by signals from either the guidance system of the transport device or from on-board Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers when the transport device strays by more than a predetermined distance from the path, the sensor is blinded, or the transport device passes beyond a predetermined point while en route to the target.

Abstract: This invention concerns a missile launching system, and particularly a missile launching and orientation system. It can be used to modernize missiles with an inclined launch at an angle by transforming them into missiles controlled for circular defense, avoids ejection of the passive mass within the launching area. In order to do this, the launching system comprises launching means, aerodynamic control surfaces with drive and means of orientation including at least one gas generator and nozzles connected to it. Orientation means are located in an annular body rigidly connected to the rear part of the missile body. The outside surface of the annular body is cone-shaped and is covered with a thermal insulating material forming a gas pipe, the profile of which is a continuation of the profile of the nozzle of the missile cruise engine.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is for imparting, in a continuous sequence, a predetermined rotational movement to a warhead releasably housed in a protective canister and ejected out in ballistic ejection trajectories from the canister. The canister is spun to the desired rotational speed by flow of combustion gases through gas outlet nozzles discharging in the outer periphery of the canister and supplied from a central combustion chamber in which a propellant powder charge is combusted. The combustion gases are then led from the combustion chamber, in the final phase of the propellant charge combustion, through gas outlets facing towards the warhead and initially covered by the propellant charge and exposed as a result of the combustion, for ejecting the warhead out of the canister.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for separating a warhead to be delivered to a target from a carrier missile flying at high speed in a first aerodynamic trajectory include a rocket motor attached to the warhead in the carrier missile and an ejection tube positioned obliquely in the carrier missile rearwardly and upwardly with respect to a longitudinal axis of the carrier missile from which the warhead is ejected by the rocket motor into a second aerodynamic trajectory having a substantially higher maximum flight altitude then the first trajectory. The warhead is separated from the rocket motor after ejection by aerodynamic forces created from the angle of the ejection of the warhead from the carrier missile and the relative flight velocities of the warhead and the carrier missile. The aerodynamic forces act on a connection between the rocket motor and the warhead, whereby the motor and warhead upon the burnout of the motor follow separate forward trajectories upon separation.

Abstract: A system and method for shattering a launch vehicle into relatively small pieces are described. The launch vehicle includes at least one solid fuel rocket motor having a propellant disposed about a combustion chamber within a rocket motor case. Each rocket motor also includes at least one motor igniter to ignite the propellant and at least one explosive charge adjacent the rocket motor case. A firing unit is capable of generating a motor ignition signal and a charge explosion signal. A first propagator carries the motor ignition signal to the motor igniter so the signal arrives after a propagation time T.sub.ignition and causes ignition of the previously unignited rocket motor. A second propagator carries the charge explosion signal to the explosive charge so the signal arrives after a propagation time T.sub.explosion and causes an explosion against the rocket motor case. The time T.sub.explosion is greater than the time T.sub.ignition by a pressurization time T.sub.

Abstract: An integral missile antenna-fuselage assembly (50) is provided for integration into an armament missile (12) which carries primary missile loads, houses internal electronic assemblies, provides mounting surface zones for external sensor antennas (71) , and protects sensitive antenna components from supersonic aerodynamic heating. Each end of the fuselage assembly (50) is formed from a fastener ring (52,54) having a circumferential recess (84,86) which receives a filament wound main structure (60) to form the missile fuselage tube. Preferably, a titanium liner (58) is first joined to each fastener ring with a step-lap joint (94,96) along which it is adhesively bonded. The liner (58) and adjacent fastener ring portions (52,57) provide a mandrel on which a graphite/Bismaleimide (BMI) resin pre-preg is filament wound and co-cured to form the integral fuselage (60).

Abstract: An intermetallic thermal sensor comprised of a hermetically sealed housing containing alternating layers of electronegative and active metals or their alloys in intimate contact. The layers may be wafer or washer-shaped. If washer-shaped, the holes in the wafers are aligned with each other to create a well within the housing and any extension thereof. A tubular-shaped liner extends into the well and may contain an energetic composition such as BKNO.sub.3. In one embodiment a thermite charge in the sensor can be ignited for venting applications. The active metal and electronegative metal and their alloys are selected so that when the melting point of one or both metals, alloys, or metal and alloy pairs has reached its or their melting point in response to external heat within a design range of the sensor, a vigorous exothermic reaction occurs to initiate a gas-producing reaction in the well or to ignite the thermite for operation of a cook-off mitigation system.

Abstract: Daughter missiles 11 are catapulted forward from a mother missile 10 when a rocket motor 12 of the mother no longer accelerates the missiles. A catapult force generated at a piston head 43 by the pressure of gas from the rocket motor on rearward facing surfaces 26 of the daughters is large enough to shear pins 34 holding the daughters to the mother, but only when the forces of reaction of the daughters 11 on the piston 43, due to acceleration, have fallen off. Preferably the daughters are thrown outwardly at release, most preferably by axial spinning of the structure of the mother to which they are mounted.

Abstract: The joint construction comprises a coupling ring slidably received in a motor tube connected to the front end of the military rocket motor. The coupling ring is formed with longitudinal slots alternating with flexible fingers having locking projections engageable with a locking channel and an adjacent locking flange within the tube. An adapter ring is connected to the warhead by first screw threads and is adapted to be connected to the coupling ring by second screw threads including external threads on the adapter ring and internal threads in the coupling ring. The adapter ring has a reduced tapered end portion for receiving a wedging tapered expansion ring made of a eutectic metal alloy having a low melting point. As the second screw threads are engaged, the expansion ring flexes the fingers outwardly by a wedging action and causes the projections to interlock with the channel and the flange.

Abstract: A missile includes, as viewed successively in flight direction, a booster, a folded drag chute in a parachute housing, a cruise engine and a warhead. The booster is detachable from the drag chute before the opening of the drag chute and the drag chute is detachable from the cruise engine upon the activation of said cruise engine. The drag chute is accommodated in a parachute housing that is closed toward the booster and is open toward the cruise engine to which the booster is connected via a positive locking releasable due to axial tensile force. A separating charge for detaching the booster from the parachute housing is arranged between the booster and the base of the parachute housing at the booster side. The booster is connected to the parachute housing via a mechanical parachute release mechanism for releasing the drag chute from the parachute housing with a delay in comparison to the ignition of the separating charge.

Abstract: An acoustic decoy round ejected by a launcher for flight above water from a ea-going vessel, impacts at the water surface to cause separation of a payload from a forward section of the round that is also separated from a flotation anchor tethered to the payload and fins which stabilized launched flight of the round prior to impact. The separated payload submerges from the flotation anchor at the water surface location to a tethered depth within the water from which a decoy signal is emitted.

Abstract: An arrangement for attaching, quickly disconnecting and jettisoning a rocket booster from a core space vehicle. The arrangement includes a housing connected to the booster and having a drive means slidably positioned therewithin and selectively locked to a bearing block connected to the space vehicle core by a lockable collet clutch means. The collet clutch means is unlocked by the drive means in response to a selective pressure to disconnect the booster from the space vehicle core and continued movement of the drive means within the housing forces the drive means into a high force contact with the bearing block, causing a rebound which jettisons the housing and connected booster from the core of the space vehicle.

Abstract: A locking device for a band or the like comprising a housing having one end fastened to a first portion of the band. The housing extends in the direction of the prevailing tensile force and is formed with a guide for guiding a link means. This comprises a fastening element fastened at its first end to the second portion of the band and at its second end journally connected to a second link at a distance from its first end. The second link is, at its first end, journaled around an axis provided in the housing transverse to the longitudinal direction of the housing. The locking device also comprises a third link journaled at the first end of the housing and a dowel element which, l via the third link, is able to prevent the second link from being turned around the axis to a position where it is released from the axis so that the locking device is opened.

Abstract: A submunition unit for a spin stabilized carrier projectile (1), with the submunition unit including an antenna disposed at the nose of its casing (7), and with the antenna (5) being covered by a protective cover (6). The casing (7) and the protective cover (6) are provided with respective axially overlapping collars (8, 9) which are each provided with respective opposed circumferential grooves (14, 15) to form an annular recess to accommodate an elastic securing ring (16). The securing ring, which is normally positioned within the innermost of the circumferential grooves, expands under the influence of centrifugal forces to connect the casing and protective cover together in a form-locking manner.