Abstract: Embodiments of a free-floating connector engagement and retention system are provided. In some embodiments, the system includes a slotted mounting surface, a connector carrier guide, and a connector carrier to receive a connector. The connector carrier may have two threaded holes therein. The connector carrier may be positioned between the connector carrier guide and the slotted mounting surface and may be retained by a set of threaded spring pins that pass through the threaded holes in the connector carrier. The ends of the threaded spring pins may be retained in the slots of the carrier guide and the necks of the threaded spring pins may be retained in slots of the slotted mounting surface. The connector and the connector carrier are free to move within the limits set by the slots of the slotted mounting surface and the slots of the carrier guide.

Abstract: An aircraft has a flight termination system that allows flight of an unmanned aircraft to be quickly and efficiently terminated. The flight termination system separates one of the control surfaces of the aircraft, such as a wing, from a fuselage of the aircraft, while one or more other control surfaces connected to the fuselage. The separation may be accomplished by firing one or more explosive bolts to release a clamp that connects the control surface to the fuselage. The separation causes an asymmetry in configuration that results in a rapid crash of the aircraft. The flight termination system causes termination to be effected in small flight footprint, without use of powerful explosives, and without a large cost in weight or volume. The flight termination system may be used in unpowered or powered aircraft.

Abstract: Embodiments of a free-floating connector engagement and retention system are provided. In some embodiments, the system includes a slotted mounting surface, a connector carrier guide, and a connector carrier to receive a connector. The connector carrier may have two threaded holes therein. The connector carrier may be positioned between the connector carrier guide and the slotted mounting surface and may be retained by a set of threaded spring pins that pass through the threaded holes in the connector carrier. The ends of the threaded spring pins may be retained in the slots of the carrier guide and the necks of the threaded spring pins may be retained in slots of the slotted mounting surface. The connector and the connector carrier are free to move within the limits set by the slots of the slotted mounting surface and the slots of the carrier guide.

Abstract: An aircraft has a flight termination system that allows flight of an unmanned aircraft to be quickly and efficiently terminated. The flight termination system separates one of the control surfaces of the aircraft, such as a wing, from a fuselage of the aircraft, while one or more other control surfaces connected to the fuselage. The separation may be accomplished by firing one or more explosive bolts to release a clamp that connects the control surface to the fuselage. The separation causes an asymmetry in configuration that results in a rapid crash of the aircraft. The flight termination system causes termination to be effected in small flight footprint, without use of powerful explosives, and without a large cost in weight or volume. The flight termination system may be used in unpowered or powered aircraft.