Mines Patents (Class 102/401)
  • Patent number: 11892253
    Abstract: A safety device for a firearm and system associated therewith are herein disclosed. The safety system includes a communications module, an activation module, a power source, a chamber housing, a substance, and a detonator. The communications module is designed to communicate with a remote device. The activation module that is designed to communicate with the communications module. The power source powers the communications module and the activation module. The substance is contained within the chamber housing. The detonator is at least partially contained within the chamber housing. In use, the detonator operative to compel the substance out of the chamber housing and into a body portion of the firearm when activated by the activation module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Inventor: Aaron Tzamarot
  • Patent number: 11841215
    Abstract: Provided is a modular directional charge system that can be assembled in different configurations depending on the target. The system includes a removable energetic material, a molded plastic shell comprising a main body and a front cover, a removable fragmentation insert, a removable breaching insert, an initiator well insert, and initiator adapter nuts. The main body comprises an internal energetic material receiving compartment, a first and second tripod mount, a threaded adapter, and a pair of pin receivers, while the front cover comprises an internal removable insert compartment. The main body and front cover are held together with a multi-position adjustable toothed locking interface that adjustably permits the cover to intimately contact the energetic material when the internal removable insert compartment contains a fragmentation insert, a breaching insert, or no insert at all. A method of use is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2023
    Assignee: The United States of America, as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Lucas Allison, Michael H. Jones, Calvin Lawson, Lucius A. Taylor, IV
  • Patent number: 11307007
    Abstract: A digitally controlled hand-tossable explosive delivery receptacle comprises a ruggedized reusable compartment enclosing a digital circuit and a disposable cartridge holding one or more explosive chemical agents and a primer. The disposable cartridge is configured to be mounted to the ruggedized reusable cartridge, and a high-strength bulkhead incorporated into the reusable or disposable compartment that separates the digital circuit from the chemical agents. The reusable compartment is sufficiently ruggedized to withstand the ignition of the primer and the detonation of the chemical agents to be reused with one or more additional disposable cartridges. In one implementation, the delivery receptacle uses a commercial airbag initiator as the primer, which is arranged in relation to the one or more chemical agents so that when the initiator is activated, it generates a pressure wave that expels the one or more chemical agents from the grenade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2022
    Assignee: Liberty Dynamic, LLC
    Inventor: Marcus L. Caldwell
  • Patent number: 11118880
    Abstract: A fragmentation warhead for a missile includes a warhead casing, an active charge arranged within the warhead casing, and a fragmentation filling arranged within the warhead casing in front of the active charge of the fragmentation warhead in an effective direction of the fragmentation warhead. When the active charge is ignited, fragments are hurled out of the fragmentation filling in the effective direction within a first outlet opening angle. The fragmentation warhead includes a fragmentation damping charge, which is arranged within the warhead casing laterally to the effective direction on the fragmentation filling, to exert a lateral damping pressure on the fragmentation filling upon ignition. The fragmentation warhead includes a fragmentation damping filling, which is arranged within the warhead casing laterally to the effective direction on the fragmentation filling such that the metal powder is released laterally from the fragmentation filling when the active charge is ignited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: TDW Gesellschaft für Verteidigungstechnische Wirksysteme mbH
    Inventors: Werner Arnold, Christian Euba
  • Patent number: 11054230
    Abstract: An anti-personnel mine that is flexible for manipulation in the field to accommodate missions by changing the shape of the C-4. The mine includes M112 seated in and adhered to a flexible housing having a rear involute wall. The involute wall includes a set of projecting folded pair of inclined walls that are about equidistant between a pair of inclined end walls. The inclined walls partitions most, but not all of the thickness of the M112 into segments that are tapered and accommodate the inclined walls. A metal spine, which may be shaped, is adhered to the front surface of the M112. Fragmentation elements and a bottom side of an elastic membrane are adhered to the spine and the front surface of the M112.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Daniel Corey Pines, Alexander Sweeney, Taylor Young, Steven Dunham
  • Patent number: 10677569
    Abstract: An aspect includes an agent carrier and an agent disposed in an inner cavity of the agent carrier. The agent includes an expandable foaming material and electromechanical signal blocking particles embedded in the expandable foaming material. An aspect further includes a sensor and agent release mechanism configured to release the agent from the agent carrier based at least in part on a determination, via the sensor, that the agent carrier is within a predetermined distance via the sensor from a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Guillaume Hoareau, Johannes J. Liebenberg, John G. Musial, Todd R. Whitman
  • Patent number: 10408589
    Abstract: A method of permanently affixing tungsten cube fragments to the fragmentation warhead in a convex Claymore mine having a plastic case and a housing. Pieces of predetermined sized structural film adhesive are positioned at temperature 60° F.±5° F., then pressed into the plastic case while pouring tungsten cubes into the case. The cubes are arranged into desired patterns all at temperature 70° F.±2° F. An interface plate and 5 lbs of weight are then placed atop thereof and all are heated in an oven at temperature 205° F.±5° F. for four hours for full cure of a desired product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Yao Chen, John Osterndorf, Dennis Kong
  • Patent number: 9850165
    Abstract: A coated fiber comprising a fiber comprising polyester, and a coating on the fiber, said coating comprising a cross-linked silicone prepared by cross-linking on the fiber one or more silicon-containing compounds selected from an organosilane and organosilicone resin, wherein at least one of said silicon-containing compounds has at least three cross-linking groups is provided, together with a method of preparing such a fiber, a concrete composition comprising such coated fibers, and a method of preparing such a concrete composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: DOW CORNING INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED
    Inventors: Deepak Vijay Dandekar, Vivek Prabhakar Raje, Milind Vaidya
  • Patent number: 9500447
    Abstract: A multi-frequency projected energy gun system and method delivers energy to a target. The method includes generating simultaneously at least two signals from a source, amplifying the signals, combining the signals, and transmitting the signals into a medium or a vacuous space. The source includes one or more of a plurality of waveform generators configured to simultaneously generate at least two signals simultaneously. The signals are amplified by a power amplifier configured to amplify the power of the at least two signals. The signals are transmitted by one or more of a plurality of antennas configured to transmit the at least two signals simultaneously into a medium or a vacuous space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Thomas Calvin Cannon, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9341454
    Abstract: Directed fragmentation weapon including a housing having front, back, top edge, bottom edge and side edge walls defining a closed chamber therein. The front wall is formed as a pellet matrix construction including a plurality of compartments formed as recesses on the surface facing the inside of the chamber. The compartments are substantially similar in shape and size to each other and a plurality of pellets of fixed diameter within the matrix. Each compartment contains one pellet therein. Explosive material is placed into the chamber, which is sufficient to propel the pellets from the matrix, and a detonator arrangement for exploding the material. Depths of a part or all of the compartments measured perpendicularly to the front wall and from the inner surface of the front wall are defined by equation h=C×A??(I) wherein equation coefficient C is 0.1-3, and A is the pellet diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: OY FORCIT AB
    Inventors: Rolf Strandberg, Eugen Kidron
  • Patent number: 8689695
    Abstract: A propelled lance provides a wounding non-lethal anti-insurgent action when stepped on by piercing an enemy insurgent's foot with a lance penetrator. The lance penetrator lodges in the foot and further penetration is impeded by a stop plate. The lance penetrator may insert an RFID or other identifiable device or other payload into the insurgent. The lance penetrator provides anti-personnel, anti-vehicle and anti-robot action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventors: Robert Van Burdine, Dorothy Devine Burdine
  • Publication number: 20130206028
    Abstract: A propelled lance provides a wounding non-lethal anti-insurgent action when stepped on by piercing an enemy insurgent's foot with a lance penetrator. The lance penetrator lodges in the foot and further penetration is impeded by a stop plate. The lance penetrator may insert an RFID or other identifiable device or other payload into the insurgent. The lance penetrator provides anti-personnel, anti-vehicle and anti-robot action.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventors: Robert Van Burdine, Dorothy Devine Burdine
  • Publication number: 20130068122
    Abstract: The invention provides a system, device and method designed to detect, alert and identify unwanted entry into areas by intruders. The invention is also designed to prevent escape from secured facilities. If escape from such a secured facility is realized, the system will identify and mark the intruder or escapee for immediate or later capture by local and or federal law enforcement authorities. The system will accomplish this by mechanical, electronic and chemical means. The system is also designed to be a territory denial system. Although the system will accomplish its means by clandestine deployment, the unseen but known presence of the device will cause a profound psychological block to any would be intruder to a given area that it is deployed in. The devices are deployed below ground just below the surface as a non-lethal landmine and subterranean several feet below ground as an anti-tunneling device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventor: Lennie Mitchell
  • Publication number: 20130047879
    Abstract: The system includes one or more devices to deter pig-blood sensitive terrorists' and others from passing across borders and across perimeters. It also deters similar terrorist suicide bombers. Sources of deterrence include pig blood derivatives in paint, spray, and detonation distribution form. In addition there are sources of deterrence from ampoules containing pig blood derivatives positioned in public buildings and on public transportation vehicles accompanied by appropriate signage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventor: Franklin R. Lacy
  • Publication number: 20120048170
    Abstract: There is provided an underwater barricade apparatus. The apparatus includes a plurality of weights, a float, and a second fiber line. The weights are connected with a first fiber line. The float floats on the water surface or underwater according to how the weights are laid underwater. The second fiber line has one end thereof connected to the weights or the first fiber line, and the other end thereof wound and connected to the float.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: JUYEOP HAN
  • Patent number: 8010038
    Abstract: A method and system of disabling a remote improvised explosive device (IED) that is triggered by a cell phone. A portable wideband network system, installed in a vehicle, is used to determine operator frequency or frequencies active on a route along which the vehicle will travel. The vehicle includes a wideband transmitter for raising a radio frequency noise floor across all of the active cellular frequencies in a limited area surrounding the portable wideband network system during passage along the route. A notch filter is used by the system for filtering a particular frequency from the noise floor. The power level of the portable wideband network system is increased so that the strongest signal at the particular frequency in the limited area is provided by the portable system's base station. All mobile terminals in the limited area around the vehicle are connected to the portable system and the portable system prevents call completion of any of the connected mobile terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget L M Ericsson (publ)
    Inventors: Eric Lee Valentine, Walter Lee Davidson, Michael Coyne
  • Patent number: 7849799
    Abstract: The invention consists of initial part (2B), which at the lower side is made in pyramid form and is part of mine activating mechanism (1). At its screwing into mine body (3), ampoule (D2) containing the aggressive matter is broken by the sharp point, the matter spills and comes to initial part (2B) that gets immersed in it. The aggressive matter slowly corrodes the walls of initial part (2B) and, when it corrodes them through, it mixes with the initial explosive placed inside initial part (2B), soaks it and neutralizes it, in such a way the initial explosive looses its explosive properties, and the mine cannot be activated any more. Cylindrical housing (D) serves for placing ampoule (D2) and retaining the aggressive liquid after breaking ampoule (D2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventor: Boris Pervan
  • Publication number: 20100307365
    Abstract: A simulated land mine for use in a combat simulation or a simulated war game, comprising: a base frame with an opening facing upwards; an inner housing inserted into the base frame and including a first center hole formed vertically therethrough; a gas cylinder mounted in the first center hole and including a second center hole formed vertically therethrough, a gas chamber formed around the second center hole and a discharge aperture communicating the formers and being used for containing compressed gas; a valve mounted in the second center hole for sealing the discharge aperture; a receiving chamber formed at an upper part of the first center hole by the inner housing, the gas cylinder and the valve and being used to contain colored liquid or powder to be ejected; means for supporting the inner housing which enables the movement of the inner housing in relation to the base frame; and a means for actuating the valve to selectively open the discharge aperture to release the compressed gas from the gas chamber
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: Real Action Paintball Inc.
    Inventor: Khanh TRAN
  • Patent number: 7810421
    Abstract: A method of preventing initiation of an explosive device. The method comprises substantially encasing an explosive device with a conductive foam. The explosive device is configured to be initiated by an electromagnetic radiation signal, such as that emitted by a transmitter of a wireless door bell device. Deactivated explosive devices are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventors: Sarah B. Hiza, Daniel W. Doll, Jared K. Olson
  • Patent number: 7786417
    Abstract: An article for neutralizing an enemy weapon comprising an interceptor and a deployable net attached to the interceptor, said deployable net remaining attached to the interceptor upon deployment, is disclosed. A method of neutralizing an airborne enemy weapon comprising launching an interceptor, with a capture sock, towards the enemy weapon and deploying the capture sock just prior to the interceptor encountering the enemy weapon is also disclosed. The capture sock remains attached to the interceptor upon deployment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Dese Research, Inc.
    Inventor: Harold R. Sells, II
  • Publication number: 20090165664
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a simulated mine includes a multiple integrated laser engagement system (MILES) device and a pyrotechnic device disposed in a simulated mine housing that simulates the appearance of an actual mine. The multiple integrated laser engagement system device is operable to transmit a light signal representative of a blast from the actual mine. The pyrotechnic device is operable to detonate simultaneously with transmission of the light signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Applicant: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Giles D. Jones, Qingce Bian, Bradley Huang, Peter M. Wallrich, William W. Price, Christopher A. Tomlinson, Jeffrey Decker, Curtis T. Palmer
  • Patent number: 7543534
    Abstract: Described are flameless tracer munitions that are expelled from land mines or in hand thrown devices, which are used to mark an enemy person, vehicle body, or tires on the vehicle, with materials that emit infrared (IR) light, or heat emitting materials, or with a visible ink or a dye. The subjects are then identified and pursued because of the ink or seen with infrared reading or heat seeking devices. The devices are both long duration (several hours) and also have high light intensity tracing and marking. These munitions are non-impact and non-lethal; are non-toxic, and biodegradable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Leon R. Manole, Stewart Gilman, Kevin Stoddard, Ernest Logsdon, Mark Nicolich
  • Patent number: 7458321
    Abstract: A non-lethal anti-personnel land mine comprising a sealed container having a first chemical reactant contained therein, and a second container having a second chemical reactant contained therein, the container being positioned within the mine to assure that a stepping action on the mine will result in the opening of the container and the release of the contents thereof into contact with the second chemical reactant, whereby the contact results in a fast chemical reaction non-lethal to the person stepping on the mine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Israel Atomic Energy Commission
    Inventors: Aharon Bornstein, Uri Bach, Noam Shafir
  • Patent number: 7137340
    Abstract: The Mixed Mine Alternative (MMA) System is a military system designed for use in mechanized warfare. The MMA System has three components, MMA smart Antitank mines, MMA Antihandling Sensors linked to the MMA smart Antitank mines, and MMA Remote Control Units (RCU). The MMA smart Antitank (AT) mines contain a primary sensor system hardened against countermeasures and a kill mechanism similar to existing scatterable AT mines. The MMA AT mine is capable of transmit and receive communications with a Remote Control Unit and with the MMA Antihandling Sensors (AH). The communications capabilities and processors in the MMA AT and the MMA AH allow the system to establish MMA AT to MMA AH links after the mines have been scattered. MMA AT will be linked to MMA AH that are within their lethal radius. The MMA AT mine processors allow the mine primary antitank sensor to be on or off. The mine may receive and act on detonate instructions from the primary antitank sensor, from the antihandling sensors, or from the MMA RCU.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: BRTRC Technology Research Corporation
    Inventor: Peter J. Cahill
  • Patent number: 6988450
    Abstract: Anti-personnel tank fired ammunition designed for attacking personnel at various ranges includes a hollow base member adapted with an electric primer and a plastic or aluminum canister containing a payload at one end thereof. In operation, the hollow cartridge is loaded with a solid propellant. The electric primer which is centrally located in the solid propellant is fired and provides a flash together with the gasses needed to ignite the propellant. The burning propellant then provides the gasses needed to force the canister from the gun tube in which the ammunition is positioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Peter Georgantzis, Keith J. Martin, Andrew A. Molina, Andrew Gowarty, Anthony P. Farina, Henry E. Hudgins
  • Patent number: 6971314
    Abstract: Mines are fabricated in the form of munitions, specifically including cartridges for firearms and several types of grenade, including both hand grenades and rocket-propelled grenades, the cartridges containing either very high energy explosives or very high temperature burning materials, that upon ignition will at least destroy the firearm in which fired or may exert lethal force against the user, while such mines in the form of grenades will explode immediately upon being activated rather than exhibit the expected time delay, both types of mines being supplied surreptitiously to an enemy force for its unknowing use, thereby to direct the lethal effect of such munitions against those enemy forces rather than the friendly forces as the enemy forces would have intended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Inventor: Brian Maguire
  • Patent number: 6799517
    Abstract: The Mixed Mine Alternative (MMA) System is a military system designed for use in mechanized warfare. The MMA System has three components, MMA smart Antitank mines, MMA Antihandling Sensors linked to the MMA smart Antitank mines, and MMA Remote Control Units (RCU). The MMA smart Antitank (AT) mines contain a primary sensor system hardened against countermeasures and a kill mechanism similar to existing scatterable AT mines. The MMA AT mine is capable of transmit and receive communications with a Remote Control Unit and with the MMA Antihandling Sensors (AH). The communications capabilities and processors in the MMA AT and the MMA AH allow the system to establish MMA AT to MMA AH links after the mines have been scattered. MMA AT will be linked to MMA AH that are within their lethal radius. The MMA AT mine processors allow the mine primary antitank sensor to be on or off. The mine may receive and act on detonate instructions from the primary antitank sensor, from the antihandling sensors, or from the MMA RCU.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: BRTRC Technology Research Corporation
    Inventor: Peter J. Cahill
  • Patent number: 6779460
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a supply vessel for transporting a plurality of payload carrying containers having powered self-burying mechanism to enable the containers to bury themselves in the seabed when released from the vessel. Each container is connected to the vessel by an umbilical including a power supply from the vessel to the container for powering the self-burying mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Lawborough International Limited
    Inventor: Christopher Daniel Dowling Hickey
  • Patent number: 6688234
    Abstract: A paint ball land mine comprising multiple PVC parts detonates and marks simulated casualties. The mine may be easily field stripped by hand. The mine forcibly detonates in response to physical contact without unbalancing, so that tilting forces that otherwise misaim the mine are avoided. A rigid cylindrical two-part base threadably receives a removable top. A sealed interior for holding colored fluid is defined therebetween. A gas cartridge housed vertically interiorly of the base may be detonated when forced into contact with a puncture pin. An integral, upwardly projecting dome mounts a detonator assembly, comprising a tubular plunger that slidably contacts the cartridge when fired. Escaping gases pressurize the mine interior, forcing colored liquid upwardly and outwardly through multiple discharge passageways that are angled acutely to aim fluid away from the center. A removable safety pin, temporarily engaging the plunger, may be “pulled” to “set” the mine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Paintball Combat LLC
    Inventors: Eric D. Huber, Michael E. Huber
  • Patent number: 6640721
    Abstract: A non-lethal airbag munition which can be used alone or in combination with anti-tank landmines to prevent target pedestrians and vehicles from entering a specific area or following a particular route for a period of time is disclosed. The munition can inflict severe ankle and foot injuries to target pedestrians but discriminates based upon the weight of the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Andre L. Standback, Sean Stapf, Gary Prybyla
  • Patent number: 6553912
    Abstract: A war games land mine includes a fluid supply mechanism, a housing and a sealing device. The fluid supply mechanism is configured for containing and selectively releasing therefrom a pressurized fluid. The housing has an interior surface, a first orifice and a second orifice, the first orifice of the housing being fluidly coupled with the fluid supply mechanism. The sealing device is movably mounted within the housing, the sealing device having a first side and a second side. The first side and the interior surface of the housing define a first chamber therebetween, the first chamber being fluidly coupled with the first orifice. The second side and the interior surface defining a second chamber therebetween, the second chamber being fluidly coupled with the second orifice and configured for being substantially filled with a marking agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Blackpoint Engineering, LLC
    Inventor: Steven J. Wygant
  • Patent number: 6539871
    Abstract: A method for making a degradable practice mine including the steps of covering a flat work surface with a polyethylene sheet to serve as a release film, weighing out the materials in a ratio of 10 parts sand to 1 part polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), mixing 1 part PVA with 10 parts sand making a sand/PVA mixture, filling a mold with the sand/PVA mixture, consolidating the sand/PVA mixture to make a consolidated form in the shape of a mine, and heating the consolidated form to make a hardened mine form mimicking the shape and launching characteristics of a tactical mine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventors: Scott A. Englar, Richard W. Rentfrow, Wesley G. Marquette, Robert E. Long
  • Publication number: 20020178958
    Abstract: A method for making a degradable practice mine including the steps of covering a flat work surface with a polyethylene sheet to serve as a release film, weighing out the materials in a ratio of 10 parts sand to 1 part polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), mixing 1 part PVA with 10 parts sand making a sand/PVA mixture, filling a mold with the sand/PVA mixture, consolidating the sand/PVA mixture to make a consolidated form in the shape of a mine, and heating the consolidated form to make a hardened mine form mimicking the shape and launching characteristics of a tactical mine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Scott A. Englar, Richard W. Rentfrow, Wesley G. Marquette, Robert E. Long
  • Patent number: 6481327
    Abstract: A set of inert mines are loaded into a canister, where each of the inert mines includes a locating feature for a dispersion strap. A breech includes a reusable slider housing. A closure cap covers another end of the canister. An obturator is inserted into a breech end of the canister and connected as an interface between the canister and a breech. The dispersing strap is anchored to the breech where the dispersing strap is woven around the inert mines within the canister such that the strap traverses the locating feature of at least some of the inert mines so as to disperse the mines in a simulated mine dispersion pattern when the canister is fired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Klukas, Michael A. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20020166474
    Abstract: A war games land mine includes a fluid supply mechanism, a housing and a sealing device. The fluid supply mechanism is configured for containing and selectively releasing therefrom a pressurized fluid. The housing has an interior surface, a first orifice and a second orifice, the first orifice of the housing being fluidly coupled with the fluid supply mechanism. The sealing device is movably mounted within the housing, the sealing device having a first side and a second side. The first side and the interior surface of the housing define a first chamber therebetween, the first chamber being fluidly coupled with the first orifice. The second side and the interior surface defining a second chamber therebetween, the second chamber being fluidly coupled with the second orifice and configured for being substantially filled with a marking agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventor: Steven J. Wygant
  • Patent number: 6473025
    Abstract: A landmine detection system comprises a ground-penetrating radar for probing the surface of the ground for landmines and other anomalies. The radar is swept back and forth across a lane while a user proceeds forward. A navigation sensor and processor keep track of all the parts of the lane that have been probed. A user display presents a visual graphic that represents the lane and the parts of it that have been probed. The user is then able to swing the radar to areas that are indicated as having been skipped in previous passes, e.g., to get 100%. coverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Stolar Horizon
    Inventors: Gerald L. Stolarczyk, Larry G. Stolarczyk
  • Patent number: 6408763
    Abstract: An apparatus for land, sea, and air defense, including a cylinder setup opening into a cylinder mast formed by nested cylinders and equipped with a weapon container. The weapon container includes, depending on the intended use, various weapons that fire automatically as well as ammunition. A drill, with a power device, is connected to the opposite end of the cylinder setup and cylinder mast's weapon container for drilling a hole into the earth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Sea Valve Engineering Oy
    Inventors: Tero Hurtta, Juhani Niinivaara, Tarmo Niinivaara
  • Patent number: 6363854
    Abstract: A mine has the ability to change from an armed state to a safe state without touching of the mine. The mine includes a case and an explosive charge in the case. Also included is a detonator located adjacent to the explosive charge. The firing of the detonator can set off an explosive chain for exploding the explosive charge. A movable firing pin in the case can strike and fire the detonator in response to pressure directed toward the case. The mine also includes a blocking member adapted to move from a retracted position to a blocking position between the detonator and the firing pin in order to prevent firing of the detonator by the firing pin. Also included is a driver for moving the blocking member from the retracted position to the blocking position without manual touching of the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Inventor: Peter Schweitzer
  • Patent number: 6213021
    Abstract: A vehicle is towed underwater by an air traveling helicopter through a towing cable to induce powered rotation of impellers on the vehicle during its underwater travel at a preselected seawater depth. An electrical generator driven by such impeller supplies electrical energy conditioned to produce a sternwise extending signature simulating magnetic field which is effective to detonate a sea mine in the underwater vicinity toward which the underwater vehicle is being towed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: David M. Pickett
  • Patent number: 6014932
    Abstract: A land mine arming/disarming system is provided in which a satellite or other airborne vehicle may remotely arm and/or disarm land mines via signals transmitted through atmospheric free space. In such a manner, land mines are less of a health hazard when conflict situations are not present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: Technology Patents, LLC
    Inventor: Aris Mardirossian
  • Patent number: 5931410
    Abstract: A system for guiding the end phase of guided autonomous missiles consists of a marker unit having a sensor, a signature transmitter and a device for attachment to the target, as well as a cooperating direction finder in the guided missile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Assignee: Daimler-Benz Aerospace AG
    Inventors: Johannes Feierlein, Albrecht von Mueller
  • Patent number: 5877448
    Abstract: A reusable gas-powered war game land mine has at least one launch tube with ne or more projectile(s) loaded therein. A compressed gas reservoir and rupturing device are provided with the rupturing device being movable in relationship to the seal of the compressed gas reservoir. A triggering mechanism is coupled to the rupturing device to move the rupturing device so that it impacts the seal when the triggering mechanism is activated. The rupturing device can define a channel through which the compressed gas is directed to the breech end of the launch tube(s) when the seal is broken. As a result, the compressed gas enters the breech end of the launch tube(s) to propel the projectile(s) therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Robert Denton, Robert Woodall, Felipe Garcia
  • Patent number: 5801322
    Abstract: The invention relates to an exercise mine system for training in mine detection. The invention including a passive oscillating circuit tuned to a certain frequency. This circuit being designed to be detected by another active oscillating circuit carried by an individual or vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignee: Giat Industries
    Inventors: Loic Laine, Philippe Arnaud
  • Patent number: 5796030
    Abstract: A mine has a casing which encloses an explosive and a primary charge arranged in the center of the explosive near the bottom of the mine. A liner is connected over the explosive in order to delimit the explosive to generate the shape charge effect and a spacing member is arranged between the primary charge and the liner. The spacing member has an upper portion which defines an opening and a lower portion which faces the bottom of the mine. The lower portion of the spacing member is shaped substantially as a circumference of a frustrum of a cone, with a base facing towards the bottom of the mine. A triggering arrangement, having a fuze and a trigger is supported by a holder. The holder is located above the opening in the spacing member. The trigger extends from an upper side of the mine through the opening to act on the primary charge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Bofors AB
    Inventor: Goran Olofsson
  • Patent number: 5753851
    Abstract: The spinning mine has all of its projectiles concentrated in one small ar It is launched from a spring-loaded threaded screw launcher and acquires angular momentum as it ascends into the air from the launcher to a pre-determined detonation altitude. As the mine spins, the detector assembly on board detects the presence and location of potential targets and sends appropriate indicative signals to a microprocessor, also on board. The microprocessor determines therefrom the location of the largest target or the largest cluster of targets in the environment and triggers the detonation of the mine such that the projectiles are jettisoned in a conical pattern toward the largest target or the largest cluster of targets for a more efficient destruction of the targets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Debbee J. Jordan, Travis S. Taylor
  • Patent number: 5646364
    Abstract: An explosive device for attachment to a user engaged in underwater demolition operations is disclosed comprising, in combination, an explosive charge, a buoyant carrier for carrying the explosive charge, and a detonator for detonating the explosive charge. The buoyant carrier includes a variable ballast pouch containing lead shot which can be removed therefrom using a control valve, thereby permitting fine control of the overall weight of the explosive device. The buoyant carrier also includes a plurality of magnets and/or suction cups for permitting the explosive device to be attached to a swimmer's backpack or to either a target surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Assignee: Donald Lee Chastain
    Inventors: Kevin R. McClung, Donald Lee Chastain
  • Patent number: 5600086
    Abstract: A device for detecting a target and for detonating an explosive device includes a displaceable trigger wire attached to a movable or deformable trigger member, and a detection device for detecting movement or deformation of the trigger member. In the case of a movable trigger member, movement of the trigger wire causes movement of the trigger member, and the detection device generates a detonation signal in response to the movement to cause detonation of the explosive. In the case of a deformable trigger member, movement of the trigger wire causes deformation of the trigger member, and the detection device generates a detonation signal in response to the deformation that causes the explosive device to detonate. The detection device may be located in the explosive device, with the trigger wire extending out away from the explosive device. Alternately, the detection device may be located in a support member located apart from the explosive device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Assignee: Giat Industries
    Inventor: Georges Lemonnier
  • Patent number: 5474452
    Abstract: A system for simulating indirect weapon fire is disclosed which serves to greatly increase the realism and training value of tactical engagement simulation exercises when suitably interfaced with existing MILES-type detecting/indicating equipment. System simplicity, effectiveness, and security are achieved using a referee-operated, hand-held actuating device emitting at a first acoustic frequency to selectively transmit actuating signals to one or more pre-positioned explosion simulation devices, which then transmit multidirectional sound at a second acoustic frequency. MILES-equipped point targets located within the effective range of the multidirectional sound respond to the second frequency signal and determine the effectiveness of the simulated explosion using a pre-established hierarchy of hit/near miss/weapon-type criteria.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Carl J. Campagnuolo
  • Patent number: 5423266
    Abstract: This invention is a relatively simple and yet highly efficient disabling mine that is approximately the size of a tube of lip balm or a 20 gauge shotgun shell. A detonator and its associated detonator pin is adapted to fire a detonator cap in the end of a charge chamber. The charge chamber is filled with magnesium except for the area immediately adjacent the detonator cap which is gunpowder that is used as a magnesium igniter. When the mine of the present invention is ignited, it will burn fiercely at a temperature in excess of 3000 Fahrenheit for a period of 5 to 6 seconds which will disable personnel as well as vehicles and other enemy equipment coming in contact therewith. Because of the relatively small size of the mines of the present invention, at least 50 of the same can be carried by a single soldier in a bandolier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Inventor: Keith R. Adams
  • Patent number: H1390
    Abstract: A training device substantially identical in size and shape to the Claymore antipersonnel mine that cooperates with the existing MILES (Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement Set) system. The training device includes a directional acoustic signal that approximates the effectiveness range of the actual Claymore mine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Carl J. Campagnuolo, Donald Gross