Abstract: Pyrotechnic actuator cover/fin release system designed for high G forces of gun-launched-systems. As safety feature, system allows the pyrotechnic actuator to be installed as one of the last steps of the final testing sequence and removed safely on disassembly. A first cam action develops initial ejection. Subsequently firing the pyrotechnic pushes both the fins and the covers outward via a second cam surface. The release system both holds covers securely latched until commanded to release and then unlatches covers prior to pushing them open. The cover eject sequence results in the flight forward edge of cover being kicked into air stream. Thereafter the cover is lifted and rotates about its aft release hinge until, at about 30 degrees of rotation, the hinge disengages. The fins then are driven into the fully deployed state by a spring and piston/wedge mechanism on the actuator shaft.

Abstract: An integrated system for missile steering, which uses both jet reaction control (JRC) and aerofin control systems, is provided with a variable coupling mechanism for adjusting the relative responsiveness of the two systems in accordance with the pressurization state of the JRC system pressure chamber. In one embodiment, the pivoting action of a joystick which actuates the gas flow control pintles of the JRC system is permitted only under sufficient pressurization of the pressure chamber. In a second embodiment, the extent to which the pintles protrude from their controllable housings is adjusted according to the pressure in the pressure chamber. In this manner, when JRC is undesirable or is unavailable, the missile aerofins are permitted their full range of motion without being constrained by the pintles.

Abstract: Pairs of aerofins used for stabilization and control of missile flight are deployed through shared longitudinal slots provided in the missile body. Before launch, the pairs of aerofins, each pair comprised of a canard and a deflector, are retained in a folded position by a releasable latch mechanism within the missile body. The deflectors are mounted in a laterally displaced position from the longitudinal slots and are constrained from sliding into alignment with the slots by the presence of the folded canards. When the canards are released by the latch mechanism and permitted to extend outward to their deployed positions, the deflectors are able to laterally shift, effectively displacing the canards in the alignment position and subsequently deploying. The latch mechanism is designed to simultaneously release all the canards following missile launch, with biasing torsional springs operating to urge the canards outward through the associated slots to the extended position upon release.