Abstract: A modular propellant charge for semi-fixed ammunition is disclosed. The propellant charge is disposed within an ammunition cartridge canister, and permits direct access to each charge increment. Further, the propellant charge comprises at least one charge increment comprising a rigid section of a cylindrical solid of rotation, and each charge increment has a length less than the central cavity of said ammunition canister.

Abstract: In an embodiment, there is disclosed a clamp having a frame and a latch member mounted within the housing so that the latch member is translatable along a displacement axis and rotatable about the displacement axis. A cam follower mounted to the frame engages a channel operatively associated with the latch member. An actuator mounted to the frame and operatively associated with the latch member translates the latch member along the displacement axis. The engagement of the cam follower and channel causes the latch member to be rotated about the displacement axis as the latch member is translated along the displacement axis.

Abstract: A clamp having a frame and a latch member mounted within the frame so that the latch member is translatable along a displacement axis and rotatable about the displacement axis. A guide pin mounted to the frame engages a channel operatively associated with the latch member. An actuator mounted to the frame and operatively associated with the latch member translates the latch member along the displacement axis. The engagement of the guide pin and channel causes the latch member to be rotated about the displacement axis as the latch member is translated along the displacement axis.

Abstract: An ignition tube for use with electrothermal chemical combustion ignition projectiles in guns, comprising a tube positionable in a combustion chamber for receiving plasma ignition from a plasma chamber. The tube is formed from high density polyethylene or other materials adapted to release plasma upon contact by plasma ignition electrical energy or pulses. The tube is specifically designed to provide an increasing exit area from the proximal end of the tube toward the distal so as to act upon the longitudinally attenuated plasma, thereby substantially decreasing the amplitude of any reflected shock in the plasma stream. The exit area comprises a plurality of radially extending orifices or holes that have a decreased angle of inclination to the longitudinal axis from proximal end to distal end, such that the orifices form a spiral pattern on the circumference of the tube. This pattern provides a uniform action of plasma on the propellant over the entire length of the ignition tube.