Abstract: An expolosively-activated mechanism for releasing a breathing mask from a protective helmet to permit the user to breathe the ambient atmosphere independently of the mask utilizes coacting mechanisms in the form of a bayonet and a bayonet receiver and an explosive charge mounted in the bayonet receiver for explosively separating the bayonet receiver and permitting the bayonet to drop from the helmet upon the occurrence of a predetermined event. The bayonet receiver includes components defining a bayonet-receiving channel which is held in assembled relationship by a plurality of shanked fasteners and a cutting blade interposed between the explosive charge and the shanked fasteners. The cutting blade is adapted to receive the explosive force generated by the explosive charge and sever every shanked fastener of the bayonet receiver upon receipt of the explosive force.

Abstract: Apparatus for separating a breathing mask from a helmet automatically upon the occurrence of a predetermined event, the mask having a bayonet connection to a bayonet receiver carried by the helmet. A piston and an explosive cartridge are arranged in an actuator body associated with the bayonet receiver. Upon the occurrence of the predetermined event, as sensed by an activating circuit associated with the receiver, the explosive cartridge generates a shock wave driving the piston against the bayonet in generally right angular relation to the bayonet, thereby forcibly separating the bayonet from the receiver.