Abstract: A bolt action firearm that cocks the firing pin upon closing the bolt and includes a cam pin with dual heads for a high velocity rimfire cartridge. In one embodiment, actuating the main spring while closing the bolt, instead of while opening the bolt, more uniformly distributes the physical energy required by the user over the bolt actuation cycle. The dual heads of the cam pin provide symmetric reactive forces with dual cam slots, thereby preventing the cam pin from skewing or canting within the cam slots. A safety system is provided for the trigger mechanism and a robust connecting systems for the stock.

Abstract: A firearm apparatus includes a gun housing which includes a barrel support channel between a front gun housing portion and an intermediate gun housing portion. A reciprocating barrel is housed inside the gun housing and includes a piston-sleeve-contained barrel portion slidingly received in a piston sleeve which is housed in the front gun housing portion and in front of the barrel support channel. Proximal portions of a barrel piston head, the piston-sleeve-contained barrel portion, and the piston sleeve form a pressure space into which a portion of high pressure combustion gasses from a fired cartridge enter. The high pressure gasses propel the barrel forward until the barrel piston head reaches the end of the piston sleeve. Then, a recoil spring returns the barrel to its original position. As the barrel moves back and forth, a fresh cartridge is automatically loaded from a magazine into a barrel chamber portion, the cartridge is fired, and the spent cartridge is automatically discharged.

Abstract: A floating barrel gun design, a design in which a propellant gas discharge is used to counterbalance the recoil force of the gun, has been improved to include a novel automatic mechanical mechanism which allows the floating or inner barrel to be held stationary within the gun while the gas is discharged and after the discharge is complete, the barrel is released to return to its pre-actuation position. The discharge of gas is also made safer by an automatic mechanical mechanism for venting the accumulated gas, and this mechanism is activated as the projectile leaves the gun. The mechanism requires that the gas be discharged into the interior of the gun and the recoil-countering gas streams be directed toward a rearward moving breech block.

Abstract: A low impulse firing attachment and companion ammunition for combination gas and recoil operated automatic weapons is comprised of a barrel insert and piston that provide the mechanism for containing the expanding propellant gases produced on firing. Such mechanism provides the required gas pressure at the gas port of the weapon to power the gas system. The barrel insert also allows the use of a sub-caliber piston for the propellant gases to act against. The gas pressure forces the barrel and piston apart, accelerating the recoiling mass rearward to provide recoil operation. The sub-caliber piston allows the use of the relatively high gas port pressure while limiting the peak force transmitted through the adapter. The blank and adapter provide the appropriate gas pressure at the gas port to power the gas system. The adapter also acts as a piston inside the barrel so that the gas pressure forces the barrel rearward, which provides the recoil operation.

Abstract: A variable flow-restricting and apportioning device for an aircraft ejector rack system having a pair of fluid-actuated thrusters includes a pair of rotatable feed conduits for supplying pressurized fluid to the thrusters. Each feed conduit has an exit flow passage at its exit end which is eccentric relative to the longitudinal axis about which the conduit is rotatable, and the exit end of each feed conduit slidably fits into a female receptacle in a receiver in fluid communication with one of the thrusters. Each receptacle includes a mating face therein which has a receiver port for supplying fluid to the respective thruster. The receiver port is eccentric relative to the rotational axis of the feed conduit. Rotating each feed conduit relative to the respective receiver causes varying degree of overlap between the eccentric exit flow passages and the eccentric receiver ports, thereby defining variable-size flow orifices at each receiver.

Abstract: In order to accommodate the ammunition (7) in an ammunition magazine (1) in a space- and mass-saving manner without an external drive, and to subsequently remove the ammunition quickly from the magazine, the individual ammunition bodies (7) are disposed, with the aid of holders (10), on the chain links (8, 9) of a rigid-backed chain (6) (ammunition chain) seated to be displaced in two rails (3, 4). In such an arrangement, the ammunition (7) can be removed quickly from the magazine (1) through the withdrawal of the chain (6) and the pivoting of the individual chain links (8, 9) toward the rear side (15) of the chain (6), and stowed again when the chain (6) is pushed back into the magazine frame.

Abstract: Suspension and Release Equipment (S&RE) capable of carrying and releasing various types of weapons including bombs and missiles without the need for reconfiguration. The rack assembly of the present invention includes a plurality of separate, yet linked hook assemblies. A multi-purpose hook is employed to engage either bombs or missiles by means of three separate toes. A center toe includes a protruding arm adaptable for engaging the hook-shaped portion of a forward bomb bail lug which can be located either fourteen or thirty inches from the aft lug. The multi-purpose hook further includes a pair of outer toes including slots for engaging the opposite side rails of a missile lug. Because the multi-purpose hook is equally adaptable for engaging bomb or missile lugs, the rack assembly can be employed to carry either type of weapon. An aft mounted missile hook is adaptable for engaging a missile rail lug, and a separate hook mounted on the rack is adaptable for engaging a bomb lug.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an integral hoist and weapon rack interface assembly adaptable for loading a weapon onto an aircraft. The assembly includes a hoist mechanism positioned at an aircraft weapon station and a separate rack attached to the hoist by straps is lowered into contact with the weapon. After the weapon is attached to the rack, the combination of weapon and rack are raised into engagement with a structural plate supporting the hoist mechanism. A plurality of uplock hooks mounted on the plate automatically engage swaybraces mounted on the rack to mechanically lock the rack to the hoist.

Abstract: A weapon station testing system for testing the mission readiness of an aircraft (10) having a plurality of weapon stations including a first weapon station (12a) and a second weapon station (12b) comprises a common electronics module (14) and a plurality of interchangeable mechanical fixtures (16a, 16b). A first interchangeable fixture (16a) is operative for interconnecting the common electronics module (14) with the first weapon station (12a). A second interchangeable fixture (16b) is operative for interconnecting the common electronics module (14) with the second weapon station (12b).

Abstract: A munition constituting a cartridge-launcher loader comprises a plurality of consumable modules each in the form of a flat strip of juxtaposed cartridges each comprising a payload of chaff, an ejector pyrotechnic charge, an electrical initiator, and a reusable support receiving the strips. The support has a system for immobilizing the strips and a handle for transporting and installing it. The strips are juxtaposed at their flat surface to perform a homogeneous block essentially constituting the body of the munition or a part thereof. The support includes a fixed plate carrying the strips and receiving the latter, when they are inserted, by virtue of them sliding in a general direction parallel to the plane of the plate.

Abstract: A disposable flare dispenser magazine for infrared decoy flares providing the ability to quick load a plurality of infrared decoy flares to a flight aircraft during combat rearming. The magazine, in conjunction with a cover, is incorporated as a packaging and shipping container for the resident infrared flares, as well as for loading the flares on an aircraft.

Abstract: The present invention falls within the sector of infrared or electrogmagnetic decoys for protecting light aircraft or helicopters. It relates more particularly to pyrotechnic cartridges and to ammuniton comprising racks receiving the cartridges. This invention makes it possible, for the same volume of ammunition, to have a larger number of shots and to carry out the loading of the ammunition simply and quickly. The cartridge (1), consists of a sole (2) fixed to a case (3), in which are accommodated a plurality of assemblies (11) comprising pyrotechnical ejection charges (6), pyromechanical assemblies (7), ignition charges (8), effective charges (9) and the caps (10). The case (3) is provided with a plurality of receptacles and comprises at its base either a blocking device (4) or a gasket which is seated in a groove (41).

Abstract: In the field of infrared or electromagnetic decoys for protecting light aircraft or helicopters, pyrotechnic cartridges and ammunition comprising racks receiving the cartridges are described. Thus it is possible for the same volume of ammunition to have a larger number of shots and to carry out the loading of the ammunition simply and quickly. The cartridge (1) consists of a sole (2) fixed to a case (3), in which are accommodated a plurality of assemblies (11) comprising pyrotechnical ejection charges (6), pyromechanical assemblies (7), ignition charges (8), effective charges (9) and the caps (10). The case (3) is provided with a plurality of receptacles and comprises at its base a blocking device (4). The assemblies (11) are independent and are arranged in parallel in the various receptacles of the case (3); the sole (2) is common to the various receptacles of the case (3) and is provided with electrical fuses.

Abstract: A defense system which provides turret-like platforms equipped with missiles at various points on an airplane or helicopter. The missiles are recoiless and may be either self-guided or aviator-guided. The number of missiles and type of launch (pylon or tube) provided are considered to be changeable according to the mission, but this invention only addresses the use of multiple rotatable platforms compatible with existing weaponry and technology.

Abstract: A ordnance ejector apparatus (10) for ejecting an ordnance from an aircraft includes a mechanical linkage comprising a forward bell crank (36) and a forward connecting link (46) and a rearward bell crank (50) and a rearward connecting link (60). A rail (24) releasably retains an ordnance (16) thereto and is pivotally connected at opposite ends (26, 28) to the forward connecting link (46) and the rearward connecting link (60). Two pyrotechnically operated pistons (78, 88) are disposed in end-to-end relation and act independently on the forward bell crank (36) and rearward bell crank (50). The rail (24) includes a plurality of ordnance retaining hooks (152) which are automatically actuated to release the ordnance (16) when the rail (24) is extended by the mechanical linkage. A mechanical hoist (108) is manually operated by a screw shaft (110) for manually extending the rail (24) to attach an ordnance (16) thereto.

Abstract: A ordnance ejector apparatus (10) for ejecting an ordnance from an aircraft includes a mechanical linkage comprising a forward bell crank (36) and a forward connecting link (46) and a rearward bell crank (50) and a rearward connecting link (60). A rail (24) releasably retains an ordnance (16) thereto and is pivotally connected at opposite ends (26, 28) to the forward connecting link (46) and the rearward connecting link (60). Two pyrotechnically operated pistons (78, 88) are disposed in end-to-end relation and act independently on the forward bell crank (36) and rearward bell crank (50). The rail (24) includes a plurality of ordnance retaining hooks (152) which are automatically actuated to release the ordnance (16) when the rail (24) is extended by the mechanical linkage. A mechanical hoist (108) is manually operated by a screw shaft (110) for manually extending the rail (24) to attach an ordnance (16) thereto.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for evaluating the operational status of a weapon interface system ("WIS") for coupling an aircraft controller to a plurality of weapon systems and a corresponding plurality of weapon ejectors. The WIS to be evaluated includes a weapon system interface unit ("WSIU"), a power switching unit ("PSU"), and a power distribution box ("PDB").

Abstract: Apparatus for stowing and deploying stores from air and marine craft (FIG. 2) in which the stores 28 are stowed on a modular stowage structure, such as pallets 32, with releasable locking devices 10 securing the pallets to the craft. Further releasable locking devices 29 and restraining means 30 are arranged to secure the stores to cradles 14 on respective associated pallets. The pallets and cradles are adapted to permit, upon release of the respective further releasable locking devices 29, movement by the effect of gravity of the stores to effect deployment of the stores. The stowage structure may be mounted on a ramp on the deck of the craft or the pitch of the vessel may be adjusted to effect deployment. The structure may be releasably slung beneath a sub-surface craft and provided with a fiberglass casing to make it floatable.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus which carries and selectively deploys aerial-drop units. The apparatus comprises a plurality of substantially parallel tubes, each tube being sized to hold a stack of units and is suspendible from an aircraft by a carrier. Associated with each of the tubes is a releasable unit support element which, upon release, allows a stack of units, as its support is removed, to drop by gravity from the tube.

Abstract: A method of providing rapid conversion of an internal weapon carriage to an external weapon carriage on an aircraft and returning the external carriage to an internal carriage. The method of conversion providing an aircraft with the option of carrying either weapons with large fixed fins or converting to newer type weapons having either smaller fins or fins that can be folded thereon.

Abstract: Device for ejecting a load slung under an aircraft, designed to impart to this load, at the moment of its release, kinematic values controlled as a function of the instantaneous flight parameters of the aircraft at this moment.A plurality of separate modules (1, 2A, 2B, 4, 10) makes it possible, on the one hand, to execute a longitudinal translational movement (d) of the load (3) to detach it from the members (5) attaching it to the aircraft and, on the other hand, to carry out an accurate adjustment of the angular ejection speed. One of the modules is an energy source (1), such as a bottle of compressed nitrogen. Two other modules are respectively a front fluid jack (2A) and a rear fluid jack (2B), both with a retractable telescopic piston which, when the pressurized gas is supplied to it by the source (1), exerts an ejection force on the load (3).The invention is used for the release of loads carried by aircraft.

Abstract: An automatic gas-operated forward recoiling combat shotgun has a reciprocally movable barrel which includes a bore and a revolving magazine which defines a circumaxially spaced series of firing chambers. In firing position, one of the firing chambers is coaxially aligned with and forms a rearward extension of the bore. A cam actuated indexing mechanism sequentially positions each of the firing chambers in firing position in response to reciprocal movement of the barrel. A manually reciprocally movable foregrip functions to cock the shotgun firing mechanism and also cooperates with the trigger mechanism to release the magazine when the forearm is operated while the trigger held in a firing position. A cocking trigger enables silent cocking or uncocking of the firing mechanism. The casing of each shell forms a seal between an associated firing chamber and the barrel when the weapon is fired.

Abstract: An aircraft autonomous, reconfigurable internal weapons bay for launching different types of weapons such as air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles with folding or fixed fins. The weapons bay is characterized by having internally folding doors which provide separate shallow compartments. The individual compartments are adaptable for carrying a multitude of different types and sizes of missiles internally or semi-submerged.

Abstract: A dispenser for launching radar deflecting elements from dispensing cassettes which are detachably supported in respective cells of the dispenser, each cassette supporting therein at least two cartridges containing the deflecting elements. Each cassette comprises guide means which cooperates with guide means in the cell in which it is inserted so as to correctly position the cassette therein, means cooperating with locking means in the cell to retain the cassette in such position, and means for electrically coupling firing pins of the cartridges to fire control means in the dispenser.

Abstract: An automatic hand firearm for ammunition with extremely high projectile momentum is designed as a recoil loader which has a mounted barrel, supported by a spring and brake system (6, 7) on the weapon housing, a breech block (9, 10), which can be rigidly locked with the barrel and which encompasses a breech block carrier (9), movably led in the weapon housing (2) and supported on a breech-closing spring, and also encompasses a plug (10) which is longitudinally adjustable in relation to the breech block carrier, which carries locking parts (14) which can be engaged or disengaged with locking parts (15) on the barrel (1), and having devices comprising cams (18) and follow-up parts (17) for engaging-and-disengaging locking parts (14, 15) with the counterrecoil and recoil motion of the breech and with which the device for disengaging the locking parts (14, 15), arranged on the barrel (1) and on the plug (10), with the recoil motion of the breech block, is arranged between breech block carrier (9) and plug (10).

Abstract: A store adapter attachable to an aircraft with minimum modifications for retaining and supporting the store proximate the bomb rack of the aircraft, and for releasing the store by actuation of the bomb rack mechanism which causes release of the store clear of the aircraft.

Abstract: A device for rapidly positioning and removing a loader in and from a carrying device on an aircraft, comprising a lever in the form of a horse shoe or stirrup having a cross leg between two side legs which support the loader and which are pivotably mounted to the carrying device at their ends opposite the cross leg, whereas this latter carries a single screw for fixing to the carrying device, actuation of this lever being facilitated by previously automatically latching the loader to the bottom of the carrying device.

Abstract: The invention is an aircraft stores extension and retraction system 10 for raising and lowering stores mounted to a stores support assembly 69 along a substantially vertical path 94' of a specified length. The system 10 comprises first and second translating links 40A and 40B, each having first 42A, 42B, second 44A, 44B, and third 46A, 46B pivot supports, forming the corners of a right triangle. The second pivot supports 44A, 44B, are pivotally attached to stores support assembly 69. At least one connecting link 50 is pivotally attached at its first and second ends to the third pivot supports 46A, 46B of the first and second translating links 40A, 40B, respectively. First and second positioning links 30A, 30B are provided, each having first ends 32A, 32B and second ends 35A, 35B.

Abstract: A store load and ejector device for carrying stores on the exterior of an aircraft or the like and for dispensing same at the option of a pilot comprising a cap plate for connecting with the aircraft, struts connected with the cap plate and carrying at their bottom ends support beams having ejector racks capable of selectively dispensing the stores and at least two cross braces connected to and between respective support beams forward and aft of the struts so as to maintain separation of the support beams and any stores thereon. The cross members and the struts have biconvex shape with leading and trailing edges sweeping at respective angles within the range of 20.degree.-50.degree. so as to present low radar reflection or radar cross section. The struts, support beams and cross braces have biconvex shape for reduced drag.

Abstract: The invention relates to a box distributor for sequentially discharging objects from aircraft and landcraft, particularly for sowing mines from helicopters. The distributor comprises a box-shaped framework with a plurality of vertical compartments closed at the base by shutters (1) tilting under control, the box-shaped framework being formed of a rigid box-shaped base (B), in which are housed the tilting bottom shutters (1) and their respective controls. Two sidewalls (P) are hinged on the two opposed longitudinal edges of the base, and a top wall (T) is releasably fixed at the top of the sidewalls of the box. For transport, the top wall is housed under the box-shaped base (B), while the sidewalls (P) are turned one over the other above the upper face of the base.

Abstract: A system and method which allows for the change of pitch angle of a store as required during the mission of an aircraft to minimize the frontal area of the store. By minimizing the drag of the store during the flight, the range of the weapon delivery system can be extended and aircraft handling qualities can be enhanced. The system includes sensing, processing, and positioning means that cooperate to adjust the store position relative to the aircraft.

Abstract: A recoil-operated gun wherein combustion gases are bled from the gun barrel gainst an end surface of a bolt-operating piston that is slidably disposed in a stationary cylinder carried by the gun receiver. A system of radial grooves and annular pockets is provided in the confronting surfaces of the piston and cylinder to store residue associated with the combustion gases, thereby preventing frictional build-ups and premature wear or jamming due to residue accumulations in the sliding interfaces.

Abstract: This invention relates to automatic guns having bolt carriers operated by coil movement of the gun barrel. High pressure gas is bled from the barrel into a gas tube that delivers both mechanical and fluid pressure forces to a piston impactor aligned with the bolt carrier. Special floating rings are arranged on the gas tube to provide controlled escape of high pressure gas from the tube. The floating rings are shiftable radially to compensate for manufacturing tolerance build-ups in the gun components. The invention reduces manufacturing costs and also increases field service capabilities.

Abstract: Automatic or semi-automatic sporting weapon of the type with gas tapping, characterized by the fact that it is fitted with a floating barrel.

Abstract: In an automatic shoulder arm designed as a gas operated weapon, especially an automatic rifle, the entire, fully operable weapon system, comprising the barrel, the bolt system, the gas operated action, the recoil spring arrangement, the cartridge feeding mechanism and a portion of the trigger mechanism, is slidably mounted in a receiver designed as a stock. During automatic fire, the weapon system is not returned to its initial position after every shot, but performs a recoil movement during a plurality of shots before it reaches a rear end position, which it maintains until the automatic fire is interrupted. The recoil movement can be utilized for controlling bursts of varying duration and cadence.

Abstract: A firearm, particularly a short firearm for firing caseless ammunition, comprises a housing having a sleeve fixed therein with first and second spring members which are biased against a projection on the gun barrel in order to hold it against axial displacement in each direction. The barrel includes a breech portion with a magazine chamber, and cartridges are moved out of the magazine chamber into a cartridge chamber by a gas piston which is displaceable in a lock member which, together with the gas piston, seals the space in the cartridge chamber behind the cartridge during firing. The lock member includes projections which are engaged behind recesses of the rear breech portion of the barrel.