Abstract: An armature for use in electromagnetic projectile launchers is provided with a plurality of modular conductive fiber bundles which are arranged in a rectangular array and attached to an insulating armature support structure. The conductive fibers extend across the launcher bore and are sized to provide an interference fit between a pair of generally parallel conductive launcher rails. Each fiber bundle includes a rectangular central sheath and a pair of peripheral rectangular sheets positioned on opposite sides of the central sheath. The axis of each peripheral sheet is positioned at an angle with respect to the axis of the central sheath.

Abstract: An axial-type homopolar motor having high density, high current fiber brush ollectors affording efficient, low contact resistance and low operating temperatures. The collectors include a ring of concentric rows of brushes in equally spaced beveled holes soldered in place using a fixture for heating the ring to just below the solder melting point and a soldering iron for the local application of additional heat at each brush. Prior to soldering, an oxide film is formed on the surfaces of the brushes and ring, and the bevels are burnished to form a "wetting" surface. Flux applied with the solder at each bevel removes to an effective soldering depth the oxide film on the brushes and the holes.

Abstract: An armature for conducting very large DC current between a pair of electrically conductive rails while being driven along the rails under the influence of electromagnetic forces generated by the application of the current includes a plurality of spiraled conductive fibers. These fibers pass through a sleeve and are compacted to a maximum packing density within the sleeve to form a single solidified connection. The brush assembly formed by the sleeve and fibers is mounted on an insulating support structure which is sized to slide between the rails of the electromagnetic launcher.