Abstract: An electromagnetic projectile launching system utilizes two cylindrical rail configurations. In one configuration, multiple conductive armatures are electromagnetically accelerated along rails which are located on the inner surface of a cylindrical barrel. The second configuration utilizes armatures located between concentric cylindrical rails. Rifling provides for spin stabilization of the projectile.

Abstract: An electromagnetic projectile launcher includes a combination plasma/conductor armature structure which serves to conduct current between a pair of generally parallel conductor rails and to propel a projectile along the rails. A plasma at each end of the conductive element of the armature serves to conduct current between the conductive element and the adjacent conductor rail. A method of launching a projectile in an electromagnetic projectile launcher is provided in which a sliding conductive element conducts current between a pair of generally parallel launching rails until a selected velocity is achieved. At that time, plasmas are generated at each end of the conductive element. These plasmas serve to transfer current between the conductive element and the launcher rails for the remainder of the launch.

Abstract: An electromagnetic projectile launching system is provided with a rail configuration in the breech area which increases the electromagnetic field to increase armature acceleration and initiate sliding current transfer at a lower current. Two configurations are disclosed. The first comprises multiple rails disposed parallel to the launcher barrel rails in tne breech region and connected in series such that current in the multiple rails flows in the same direction as current in the closest barrel rail. Connecting shunts are disposed in equal numbers on opposite sides of the barrel rails to balance electromagnetic forces. The second configuration comprises nonparallel barrel rails containing a bend in the breech region.

Abstract: An electromagnetic projectile launching system is provided with an automatic plasma armature formation device. An arc created when a conductive armature breaks contact with a pair of conductive rails is commutated through an aperture in one of the rails to a second pair of conductive rails where the arc is used as a plasma driving armature to propel a projectile.

Abstract: The electromagnetic pump comprises specially shaped magnetic pole extensions disposed around the duct along the line of flow of the fluid. The pole extensions increase the magnetic field along the axial center line of the duct, thereby increasing the mid-duct fluid body forces which in turn increase mid-duct velocity. The pole extensions decrease both viscous drag along the electrode walls and turbulent mixing in the exit regions of the duct. Both of these reductions increase pump efficiency. Moreover, the nearly uniformed velocity profile obtained with these pole extensions reduces current leakage in the end regions of the electrodes.

Abstract: A high-current electrical machine, comprises a stationary and a moving member and at least one current collector brush disposed between the members and in frictional contact with one member; where the brush comprises a plurality of flexurally independent, metal fibers, and where a non-oxidizing gaseous medium containing water vapor, contacts the interface of frictional contact of the brush to provide a lubricating effect.