Igniting Devices And Systems Patents (Class 102/200)
  • Patent number: 11635283
    Abstract: Provided is a method of operating a blasting system. A blasting device is synchronized with a detonator. A unit group including a plurality of the detonators is set. A first detonator is set from among the plurality of detonators of the unit group. A wireless network based on the first detonator is set. The blasting device performs communications with the plurality of detonators of the unit group via the first detonator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Assignee: HANWHA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yong Seok Kuk, Tae Seob Shin
  • Patent number: 11543224
    Abstract: An explosive detonating system comprises connectable components to connect/disconnect a pathway that ignites an explosion. A firing actuator activates primers. An adapter connects the firing actuator to shock tube and channels the ignition force from the primers into the shock tube. A cap box houses blasting caps coupled to the end of the shock tube. A priming well is coupled to the cap box/blasting caps and detonating cord. When the firing actuator is initiated, the percussion caps ignite, sending an explosive jet of gas into the shock tube, which ignites an explosive liner. An explosive wave travels through the shock tube and activates the blasting caps, which activate the detonating cord in the priming well. The explosive is placed in a location to provide a desired explosive effect. For example, the system may be employed as a system to breach into structures, remove obstacles and/or barriers, or other applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: River Front Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Miles Brown, Toby Justin Harvey, Donald Ray Brown, Thomas Jeffrey Harvey
  • Patent number: 11359900
    Abstract: A detonator includes a control circuit and a charging circuit. The control circuit receives a first signal transmitted using a voltage applied to a cable by a blasting device and transmits a second signal to the blasting device using a current flowing to the cable. The charging circuit performs a charging operation by receiving the voltage through the cable. The charging circuit stops the charging operation while the control circuit transmits the second signal to the blasting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Assignee: HANWHA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Se Ho Kim, Jeong Ho Choi
  • Patent number: 11248895
    Abstract: A wireless initiation device comprises a power source, a processing module, a first housing and an initiation unit. The processing module processes wireless electromagnetic communications signals received by an electromagnetic receiver system associated with the processing module. The wireless electromagnetic communications signals includes a wireless electromagnetic communications signal representative of a FIRE command. The processing module is configured to generate an initiation signal upon receipt of the FIRE command. At least one of the power source and the processing module is disposed in the first housing, and the first housing has a first connector. The initiation unit has a second housing within which is disposed an initiation module that is configured to discharge initiation energy sufficient to initiate an explosive charge associated with the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: Orica International Pte Ltd
    Inventors: Byron Wicks, Dirk Hummel, Thomas Boos
  • Patent number: 11041464
    Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods for enhancing solid propellant performance include seeding combusting energetic material, including solid propellant, with microwave energy at a controlled power and duration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: James B. Michael, Travis R. Sippel
  • Patent number: 11025075
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and articles for a portable power case are disclosed. The portable power case is comprised of at least one battery and at least one PCB. The portable power case has at least two access ports, at least two leads, or at least one access port and at least one lead and at least one USB port. The portable power case is operable to supply power to an amplifier, a radio, a wearable battery, a mobile phone, and a tablet. The portable power case is operable to be charged using solar panels, vehicle batteries, AC adapters, non-rechargeable batteries, and generators. The portable power case provides for modularity that allows the user to disassemble and selectively remove the batteries installed within the portable power case housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: LAT ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Laura Thiel, Giancarlo Urzi, Carlos Cid
  • Patent number: 10969206
    Abstract: A weapon system effectively, efficiently and safely transmits high energy radio frequency energy into the confines of the breech environment to initiate propelling charges. Legacy components are leveraged, along with advanced manufacturing techniques, to create antenna structures which transmit the radio frequency energy throughout the breech to initiate radio frequency-based primers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Assignee: U.S. Government as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Gregory Burke, Viral Panchal, James Zunino, Stephen Bartolucci, Daniel Schmidt, Giuseppe Di Benedetto
  • Patent number: 10940814
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dispenser module for converting preexisting analog systems into a customizable digital system. According to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a user can utilize preexisting analog equipment to operate and control a dispenser module. A squib is electrically connected to a logic circuit such that the normal “firing” of the original payload at that location will cause a change in the state of the electrical circuit. Because there are multiple payload allocations within one module, this allows electrical communication with individual/select payload devices by an operator. Payloads in the module can be quickly swapped in and out without making any changes to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Marshall Andrew Mullins, Charles Robert Upton, Mark Alan Anderson, Timothy Bradley, Eric Alan Hillenbrand
  • Patent number: 10641572
    Abstract: The systems and methods for microwave ignition of energetic material housed within a gun (e.g., primers and/or propellants) allow for the use of insensitive energetic materials and/or insensitive gas-generating materials in place of sensitive energetic materials relied upon by mechanical ignition systems. In some embodiments, the use of insensitive energetic materials and/or insensitive gas-generating materials increase the safety and reliability of guns that would otherwise need to depend on sensitive energetic material required by mechanical or laser ignition mechanisms. Additionally, in some embodiments, the systems and methods provide greater versatility with respect to the variety of energetic materials that may be employed within guns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: Triad National Security, LLC
    Inventors: William Lee Perry, Amanda Lynn Duque
  • Patent number: 10597987
    Abstract: A technique facilitates formation of perforations into a formation surrounding a borehole in a manner which enhances fluid flow along the perforations. The technique comprises providing a plurality of perforating charges which may be detonated in the borehole to create perforations. The detonation is used to initiate a time delay device for controlling a subsequent detonation of a corresponding charge. The corresponding charge is used to create a pressure underbalance in the borehole. This relatively lower pressure in the borehole is selectively established to create a reverse flow through the perforations which cleans the perforations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jose Escudero, Steven W. Henderson, Byron Enrique Rosario Ruiz, Carlos Baumann
  • Patent number: 10518907
    Abstract: One aspect of the present disclosure involves a networked initiation system having one or more non-energetic hold-down and release mechanisms (“HDRMs”), a control unit and an interface bus connected between all of the HDRMs and the control unit. Other aspects of the present disclosure involve networked initiation systems having one or more of each of non-energetic HDRMs, energetic HDRMs and other (generic) energetic devices. The systems also include a control unit and an interface bus connected between all of the HDRMs and/or energetic devices and the control unit. The system may be used on a spacecraft for holding various elements in place on the spacecraft during launch, and then activating the HDRMs and/or energetic devices at selected points in time after launch to release the elements for movement, e.g., into orbit or beyond.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: ENSIGN-BICKFORD AEROSPACE & DEFENSE COMPANY
    Inventors: David Novotney, Geoff Kaczynski, Craig Boucher
  • Patent number: 10505786
    Abstract: A method for locating a possible root cause of system discrepancy in a process control system uses a system model including software representations of process control endpoint devices interconnected via a communication network using a number of links, where each link is provided for communication in relation to a process control function between two endpoint devices and includes a set of communication network elements and a reference to a set of communication parameters of the process control function. In the method an indication that at least one communication parameter deviates from a communication requirement is obtained, a link where reference is made to the communication parameter identified, communication network elements contributing to the functioning of the link identified and at least one of the communication network elements indicated as a possible cause of the deviation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Assignee: ABB Schweiz AG
    Inventors: Dirk Schulz, Stefan Bollmeyer
  • Patent number: 10429162
    Abstract: Systems, methods, blasting machines and wireless bridge units are presented for wireless blasting for safe firing of detonators under control of a remote wireless master controller in which the blasting machine is connected by cabling to the wireless bridge unit and power to a firing circuit of the blasting machine is remotely controlled via the bridge unit. The bridge unit selectively provides first and second firing messages to the blasting machine contingent upon acknowledgment of safe receipt of the first firing message by the blasting machine, and the blasting machine fires the connected detonators only if the first and second firing messages are correctly received from the bridge unit. A wireless slave blasting machine is disclosed, including a wireless transceiver for communicating with a remote wireless master controller, which fires the connected detonators only if first and second firing messages are wirelessly received from the master controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Assignee: Austin Star Detonator Company
    Inventors: Bryan E. Papillon, Larry S. Howe, Thomas Allen Hoopes, Gimtong Teowee
  • Patent number: 10345084
    Abstract: An initiator assembly that includes an exploding foil initiator, an input charge and a detonation detection switch. The exploding foil initiator has a base, a pair of bridge lands, a bridge element, and a plurality of non-metallic material layers. The bridge lands are coupled to the base. The bridge element is disposed between the bridge lands. The non-metallic material layers form a flyer layer and a barrel. The flyer layer is disposed over the bridge element. The barrel defines a barrel aperture and is disposed over the flyer layer such that the barrel aperture is disposed in-line with the bridge element. The input charge is formed of a secondary explosive, the input charge being disposed in-line with the barrel aperture. The detonation detection switch is mounted to the exploding foil initiator within an area defined by an outer perimeter of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: Reynolds Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Nance, John P. Segal, Richard K. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 10107607
    Abstract: An ignition system for energetics including artillery charges includes a radio frequency transmitter and a radio frequency igniter. The radio frequency ignitor receives and converts radio frequency energy into heat or electrical energy for the purpose of igniting energetics, such as propellants or pyrotechnics. The radio frequency igniter may be applied to the exterior of the energetic container or may be integral to the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Gregory C. Burke, John Hirlinger, Thomas DeVoe, Christopher Csernica, Viral Panchal
  • Patent number: 10066917
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a lifting plug having improved insensitive performance for a high explosive projectile, in which the lifting plug ensures long-term storage such as a prevention of maximum moisture absorption during storage of high explosives and has improved airtightness by attaching an auxiliary bolt and an O-ring in addition to a lock bolt to a window of the lifting plug. Furthermore, the lifting plug prevents rupturing or cracking of the lifting plug by changing a material and thickness of the lifting plug and is provided with a vent formed by an ignition of explosives igniting at lower temperature compared with a main charge and a supplementary charge, thereby improving a safety of the long-term storage, as well as improving insensitivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignees: SOOA Corporation
    Inventors: Yea Min Youn, Seon Tae Jung
  • Patent number: 10066920
    Abstract: An expendable remote initiator receiver for initiating at least one shock tube connectable to an explosive charge. The receiver includes a shock tube interface that directly interfaces with a shock tube connected to an explosive charge, a spark initiator that initiates a spark at the shock tube interface to initiate the shock tube, a multifunctional shock tube interface adaptor mounted and connected to the shock tube interface, wherein the multifunctional shock tube interface connects the ground of a printed circuit assembly (PCA) to the shock tube needle to allow a spark to occur upon initiation by the spark initiator and also holds the PCA securely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: MAS ZENGRANGE (NZ) Limited
    Inventors: Tony Humphries, Adam Holdaway, Mark Cooling, Andre Lubbock, Murray King, Aaron Cho, David Hamilton
  • Patent number: 10041778
    Abstract: An electronic detonator (1) designed to be connected by two conducting wires (a, b) to an associated control system (20), the conducting wires (a, b) including a charged plastic material and exhibiting a first resistance. The electronic detonator (1) includes supervision elements (11) and resistive elements (12) disposed between the two conducting wires (a, b), the resistive element (12) exhibiting a second resistance, the second value of resistance being determined by the supervision elements (11) in such a way that the sum of the values of the first resistance and of the second resistance is a predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: DAVEY BICKFORD
    Inventors: Franck Guyon, Michel Boulmeau
  • Patent number: 9967095
    Abstract: A method of communicating with a detonator assembly wherein an encryption key associated with the detonator assembly is stored in the detonator assembly and a message, intended for the detonator assembly, is encrypted at the control location using the encryption key whereupon the encrypted message is transmitted to each of a plurality of detonator assemblies and each received message is decrypted and validated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: DETNET SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD
    Inventors: Craig Charles Schlenter, Jonathan Gounden
  • Patent number: 9933327
    Abstract: A method for detecting leakage at a fluid connection for a gas turbine fuel supply system is disclosed herein. The method includes closing a flow control valve at an upstream end of the fuel supply system and pressurizing the fuel supply system with a compressed medium via a compressed medium supply to a target pressure. The target pressure is less than a pressure threshold of a check valve that is disposed downstream from the compressed medium supply and upstream from a corresponding combustor of the gas turbine. The method further includes pointing a receiver portion of an ultrasonic detection device proximate to at least one tube fitting of the fuel supply system located between the flow control valve and a combustor which is fluidly coupled to the fuel supply system. Detection of an increase in sound level and/or the sound of popping at the tube fitting is indicative of a leak at the tube fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Bouria Faqihi, Abdul Khaliq, James Frederik den Outer, Thomas Earnest Moldenhauer, Michael Lynch, Richard Preston Epley, Steven Castellaw, Sheng Jia Zheng
  • Patent number: 9915513
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes an electronic ignition circuit (“EIC”) for controlling at least one detonator. The EIC may include a protection circuit, an input circuit coupled to the protection circuit, a logical circuit electrically coupled to the input circuit, and an ignition circuit electrically coupled to the logical circuit. The protection circuit may include at least one of a fuse, a circuit breaker and an automatic switch. The logical circuit may include an answer back circuit, and a switching circuit adapted to switch to the next detonator or igniter. The ignition circuit may include a capacitor charging circuit, a capacitor discharge circuit to discharge a firing capacitor through a fuse head, and a shot detection circuit adapted to measure a voltage across the firing capacitor before discharging through the fuse head and to measure a voltage after discharging through the fuse head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Assignee: DynaEnergetics GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Andreas Robert Zemla, Sascha Thieltges, Frank Graziola
  • Patent number: 9816790
    Abstract: Embodiments of an initiator support assembly that includes an initiator housing including an initiator cavity system are generally described herein. In some embodiments, a bridge substrate is positioned within the initiator cavity. The bridge substrate includes a substrate base including a uniform first planar surface and an opposed second surface. The bridge substrate further includes a first bridge contact extending over the substrate base. The first bridge contact is substantially flush with the first planar surface. A second bridge contact extends over the substrate base. The second bridge contact is substantially flush with the first planar surface. The first and second bridge contacts and the uniform first planar surface form a continuous planar mounting surface. An explosive charge, positioned within the initiator cavity, includes a charge mounting surface that is continuously coupled in surface-to-surface contact across the continuous planar mounting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Bradley Biggs, Timothy B. Bonbrake, George Darryl Budy, Christopher Schott
  • Patent number: 9709373
    Abstract: A wireless detonator is provided with: a detonation part; a control part for igniting the detonation part, the control part being connected to the detonation part; a tube for accommodating the detonation part and the control part; and a detonation-side antenna used by the control part for wireless communication and capable of being used for sending and receiving without separately having a transmission-only antenna and a reception-only antenna; the detonation-side antenna being a soft magnetic body coil antenna, and the control part receiving, via the detonation-side antenna, a transmission signal at an operating frequency of 100-500 KHz.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: NOF Corporation
    Inventors: Satoshi Hikone, Yoji Tasaki
  • Patent number: 9711024
    Abstract: A method of controlling the operation of a blasting system which includes the steps of monitoring for the occurrence of electromagnetic interference (EMI) within a defined zone and initiating an alarm upon detection of such interference wherein the initiation of the alarm can automatically inhibit or suspend the operation of the blasting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: DETNET SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD
    Inventor: Michiel Jacobus Kruger
  • Patent number: 9612093
    Abstract: This invention is a unique arrangement of shaped charge devices in an array to produce a patterned or arranged explosive pattern in a target area. The Axilinear design, in a plural array configuration, solves the limitations of a smooth walled circular linear liner by having opposing corrugations or flutes that have sufficient curvature to converge the liner material so as to obtain ductile Munroe jetting, longer jets, and higher velocities. The individual shaped explosive devices have a liner that produces a single combination jet consisting of a forward rod portion and rearward flattened spade shaped portion, this jet has a velocity gradient form tip to tail. This Axilinear device will produce a combination jet, consisting of a rod forward portion, followed by and connected to a planar symmetric wide spade shaped rear portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: Innovative Defense, LLC
    Inventors: Nicholas Collier, David Shawn Flatt
  • Patent number: 9518809
    Abstract: The present invention describes an electronic fuze operable to complement a mechanical point impact fuze. The electronic fuze includes a voltage generator circuit, micro-controller, a piezo-electric sensor, a firing circuit and a safety lockout circuit. When a projectile strikes a target at an optimum angle, the mechanical point impact fuze is activated; when the strike angle is oblique, the mechanical point impact fuze may be ineffective but the piezo-electric sensor is operable to trigger the firing circuit. The safety lockout circuit ensures the firing circuit is operative only after a predetermined delay time when an n-channel FET is turned OFF. The micro-controller also generates a TIME-OUT signal, which provides for self-destruction of a projectile that has failed to explode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: Advanced Material Engineering Pte Ltd
    Inventors: Cheng Hok Aw, Juan Kiat Jeremy Quek, Yong Lim Thomas Ang, Siwei Huang, Soo Chew Sie
  • Patent number: 9488451
    Abstract: Embodiments of an initiator support assembly that includes an initiator housing including an initiator cavity system are generally described herein. In some embodiments, a bridge substrate is positioned within the initiator cavity. The bridge substrate includes a substrate base including a uniform first planar surface and an opposed second surface. The bridge substrate further includes a first bridge contact extending over the substrate base. The first bridge contact is substantially flush with the first planar surface. A second bridge contact extends over the substrate base. The second bridge contact is substantially flush with the first planar surface. The first and second bridge contacts and the uniform first planar surface form a continuous planar mounting surface. An explosive charge, positioned within the initiator cavity, includes a charge mounting surface that is continuously coupled in surface-to-surface contact across the continuous planar mounting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Bradley Biggs, Timothy B. Bonbrake, George Darryl Budy, Christopher Schott
  • Patent number: 9354029
    Abstract: The detonation of one or more explosive charges and propellant charges by a detonator in response to a fire control signal from a command and control system comprised of a command center and instrumentation center with a communications link therebetween. The fire control signal is selectively provided to the detonator from the instrumentation center if plural detonation control switches at the command center are in a fire authorization status, and instruments, and one or more interlocks, if included, are in a ready for firing status. The instrumentation and command centers are desirably mobile, such as being respective vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Los Alamos National Security, LLC
    Inventors: Jonathan L. Mace, Gerald J. Seitz, John A. Echave, Pierre-Yves Le Bas
  • Patent number: 9296241
    Abstract: A method of forming a very small, i.e. microliter, finely detailed explosive train for the ignition of energetic munitions—which train is formed by ink jetting picoliter volume droplets of an explosive ink onto the substrate; which explosive ink is a pure liquid that will not clog the ink jet printer. The explosive ink being a solution composed of a secondary organic explosive solute, a polymeric binder solute, and a polar aprotic organic solvent. Where the ink jet printer is a commercial piezoelectric type, drop-on-demand, ink jet printer capable of precisely delivering the subject picoliter volume droplets. And, which printer is capable of heating said substrate to an elevated temperature to more rapidly evaporate the solvent, leaving the desired, finely detailed, efficacious, crystalline explosive train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Andrew C. Ihnen, Woo Young Lee, Brian Fuchs, Anne Marie Petrock, Daniel Stec, III
  • Patent number: 9097503
    Abstract: A munition according to a preferred embodiment can include a detonator system having a detonator that is selectively coupled to a microwave source that functions to selectively prime, activate, initiate, and/or sensitize an insensitive explosive material for detonation. The preferred detonator can include an explosive cavity having a barrier within which an insensitive explosive material is disposed and a waveguide coupled to the explosive cavity. The preferred system can further include a microwave source coupled to the waveguide such that microwaves enter the explosive cavity and impinge on the insensitive explosive material to sensitize the explosive material for detonation. In use the preferred embodiments permit the deployment and use of munitions that are maintained in an insensitive state until the actual time of use, thereby substantially preventing unauthorized or unintended detonation thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: LOS ALAMOS NATIONAL SECURITY, LLC
    Inventor: William Leroy Perry, III
  • Patent number: 9091518
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are significant improvements in security and safety of blasting apparatuses intended for use in mining operations. These include the development of an apparatus and method for blasting that involves activation or deactivation of the blasting apparatus in accordance with pre-determined parameters. For example, these parameters may include one or more of: a location of the blast site, a time for the blasting event, a number of previous blasts, a number of previous blasts within a given time period, and identification of detonator identification codes. The activation or deactivation may involve cross-communication between components of the blasting apparatus and/or associated detonators. Such cross-communication may involve electronic or wireless communication means, including for example the use of cell phone technology, or the internet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: ORICA EXPLOSIVES TECHNOLOGY PTY LTD
    Inventors: Charles Michael Lownds, Ronald F. Stewart, Howard A. Bampfield
  • Patent number: 9028769
    Abstract: The oxygen generation system includes a chemical oxygen generator that creates oxygen through an exothermic chemical reaction that creates sufficient heat to pose a serious risk to a user. The oxygen generation system therefore includes a containment layer to permit safer administration of oxygen from a chemical oxygen generator by shielding a user from and/or dissipating the heat generated by the chemical generator. The oxygen generation system may be handheld and portable for use in extreme, remote, and/or hostile conditions, locations, environments, and situations with a simple activation method easily operated under stress without any preparation or maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Pacific Precision Products Mfg.
    Inventors: Francois Vigier, Ahmad Marshall, Gerald White, Tae Kim, Francisco Castro, Emmanuel Angelo Fantuzzi
  • Publication number: 20150107476
    Abstract: A non-electric detonator connected to similar detonators with capsule 2 with having charge 8 and delay train 9. A tube 3 for transmitting a shock wave having an internal surface with a predetermined amount of a propagating explosive has one end mounted within capsule 2 adjacent to delay train 9. A seal 12 formed by collapsing a portion of tube 3 at a distance from its end prevents a shock wave accidentally created at capsule 2 from propagating to the rest of tube 3. Yet, the propagation of the wave is not prevented when it comes from the other end of tube 3. The distance from end 13a where seal 12 is formed needs to be selected for a predetermined explosive amount not sufficient to propagate the wave from capsule 2 but enough to propagate it when the wave comes from the other end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: Famesa Explosives S.A.C
    Inventors: Pio Francisco Perez Cordova, Jose William Palomind Cahuana
  • Patent number: 8978557
    Abstract: A ring-shaped or plate-like element, in particular for a metal-sealing material-feedthrough, for example for devices which are subjected to high pressures, such as igniters for airbags or belt tensioning devices, includes a feedthrough opening, whereby the feedthrough opening is located substantially in the center of the ring-shaped or plate-like element and whereby the ring-shaped or plate-like element has a thickness. The ring-shaped or plate-like element has a relief region in the area of the feedthrough opening. Further, the ring-shaped or plate-like element in the relief region has at least one thickness which is reduced by the height of the relief region and which is selected so that the feedthrough opening can be punched out of the ring-shaped or plate like element having the reducing thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Schott AG
    Inventors: Helmut Hartl, Thomas Pfeiffer
  • Patent number: 8922973
    Abstract: Detonators are described herein. In a general embodiment, the detonator includes a nonlinear transmission line that has a variable capacitance. Capacitance of the nonlinear transmission line is a function of voltage on the nonlinear transmission line. The nonlinear transmission line receives a voltage pulse from a voltage source and compresses the voltage pulse to generate a trigger signal. Compressing the voltage pulse includes increasing amplitude of the voltage pulse and decreasing length of the voltage pulse in time. An igniter receives the trigger signal and detonates an explosive responsive to receipt of the trigger signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventor: Juan M. Elizondo-Decanini
  • Patent number: 8919253
    Abstract: A perforating system that transfers a detonation wave between adjacent perforating guns by converting shockwave energy to electrical energy. An explosive is provided on an end of a detonating cord that is coupled to shaped charges, so that a detonation wave traveling in the detonation cord will initiate detonation in the shaped charges and then in the high explosive. The explosive is disposed adjacent a pair of members that are energized so that a magnetic field is formed between the members. When the explosive detonates, the resulting shock wave pushes one of the members into the space between the members to compress the magnetic field. Compressing the magnetic field produces an electrical potential usable to initiate a detonation wave in another detonating cord for perpetuating the detonation wave along the perforating system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Tim W. Sampson, William Harvey
  • Patent number: 8915188
    Abstract: A detonator includes a flying plate propelled by a squib stage including at least one first pyrotechnic composition and/or one first explosive, the plate being propelled onto a relay stage including at least one secondary explosive, wherein the detonator is provided with thermal insulation surrounding the squib stage for delaying the temperature rise thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Nexter Munitions
    Inventors: Hervé Le Breton, Nathalie Raffin-Barril, Didier Cazajous
  • Patent number: 8916809
    Abstract: A method is provided for optically providing at least one of power and data to a projectile from an external optical source. The method including: outputting an optical signal from an external optical source into an interior of the projectile; receiving the optical signal in the interior of projectile and at least one of converting the optical signal to electrical energy and storing data provided in the optical signal. The electrical energy can be provided to the one or more electronic components and/or energy storage medium disposed on the interior of the projectile. The data provided in the optical signal can be provided to a data storage medium disposed on the interior of the projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Omnitek Partners LLC
    Inventors: Jahangir S. Rastegar, Thomas Spinelli
  • Publication number: 20140345488
    Abstract: A wad or basewad for ammunition includes an ignition chamber. The ignition chamber can be integrally formed with the payload wad, basewad, or battery cup or can be attached to the payload wad, basewad, or battery cup. The ignition chamber communicates with a primer of the ammunition to receive and contain the primer blast for at least an initial period of time. This facilitates faster initial ignition of the propellant of the ammunition, and consequently allows higher performance levels to be achieved. Other advantages regarding other applications of this invention include cleaner burning loads, greater economy, and lower perceived recoil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2014
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventors: David K. Schluckebier, Kevin R. Cross, Ricky J. Buckmaster, Spencer D. Wildman
  • Patent number: 8841567
    Abstract: An inertial igniter including: a body having a base; a striker release element rotatably disposed on the body, the striker release element having a first surface; a first biasing element for biasing the striker release element away from the base; a striker mass rotatably disposed on the base along a second axis, the striker mass having a second surface corresponding to the first surface of the striker release element, the first surface obstructing rotation of the striker mass; and a second biasing element for biasing the striker mass such that the second surface is biased towards the first surface; wherein when the body experiences an acceleration profile of a predetermined magnitude and duration, the striker release element rotates towards the base to release an engagement between the first and second surfaces and allow the striker mass to rotate under a biasing force of the second biasing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Omnitek Partners LLC
    Inventors: Jacques Fischer, Jahangir S Rastegar
  • Patent number: 8839720
    Abstract: Blasting apparatuses are disclosed that include enhanced security features, including biometric analysis of specific biological features of a candidate blast operator, thereby to generate a biometric signature. Other corresponding methods relate to cross-referencing of biometric signatures between components of the blasting system. Additional security features of the blasting apparatuses, and corresponding methods of blasting employing the blasting apparatuses, are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Orica Explosives Technology Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Ronald F. Stewart
  • Publication number: 20140227548
    Abstract: There are disclosed energetic nanoparticle compositions and materials containing silicon and other energetic elements, and methods of manufacturing the same, including reacting silicon nanoparticles and unsaturated alkene or alkyne to form covalently bonded surface coatings passivated against surface oxidation, for combination with a fuel, explosive or oxidizer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventor: James J. Myrick
  • Publication number: 20140182472
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for measuring a muzzle velocity of a fired bullet so that the bullet may explode at an accurate location. The muzzle velocity measuring apparatus includes a detector configured to comprise a pair of cores encircled by probe wound coils and installed in two separate positions in an adapter, and to output a muzzle velocity signal based on eddy current signals which are generated by the probe wound coils when a bullet fired from a bullet chamber passes through the adapter, a muzzle velocity calculator configured to calculate a flight speed of the fired bullet based on the muzzle velocity signal; and a transmitter configured to transmit the calculated flight speed to the bullet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: HANWHA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kyu-Chae JUNG, De-Rac SON, Jun-Goo SHIN, Sung-Min LEE, Jung-Yun KIM
  • Patent number: 8765429
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for treating biomass that may include introducing a biomass to a chamber; exposing the biomass in the chamber to a shock event to produce a shocked biomass; and transferring the shocked biomass from the chamber. In some aspects, the method may include pretreating the biomass with a chemical before introducing the biomass to the chamber and/or after transferring shocked biomass from the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: The Texas A & M University System
    Inventors: Mark T. Holtzapple, Maxine Jones Madison, Rocio Sierra Ramirez, Mark A Deimund, Matthew Falls, John J. Dunkleman
  • Publication number: 20140109787
    Abstract: The subject-matter of the invention is a detonator comprising a flying plate propelled by a squib stage comprising at least one first pyrotechnic composition and/or one first explosive, said plate being propelled onto a relay stage comprising at least one secondary explosive, wherein said detonator is provided with thermal insulation means surrounding the squib stage for delaying the temperature rise thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: NEXTER MUNITIONS
    Inventors: Hervé LE BRETON, Nathalie RAFFIN-BARRIL, Didier CAZAJOUS
  • Patent number: 8661978
    Abstract: A detonator system is provided for use with explosives that utilizes two subsystems. A first subsystem functions as a non-explosives based detonator, which does not contain any explosives. The second subsystem is an initiating subsystem, which includes an initiating pellet. To set off an explosive event, the non-energetics based detonator is coupled to the initiating subsystem and the non-energetics based detonator is commanded to provide a suitable signal to the initiating subsystem that is sufficient to function the initiating pellet. Further, the initiating subsystem can be integrated directly into an associated explosive such as a booster that has been configured to receive the initiator subsystem without changing the hazard class of the booster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Roger F. Backhus, Richard W. Givens, Jerome A. Klein, Ronald L. Loeser, Jason E. Paugh, Walter G. VanCleave, III, Isaac Thomas Zimmer
  • Patent number: 8646387
    Abstract: A connector (30) which connects a detonator to a two-wire harness (14) from a control unit (12) and which includes a timer which, after a timing interval, enables the connection of a following detonator in a sequence to the harness (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Detnet South Africa (Pty) Ltd
    Inventor: Craig Charles Schlenter
  • Patent number: 8640619
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to use of a polyamide thermal plastic as a potting compound for potting electronic components (ex.—printed circuit boards) of an electronics assembly which is implemented in a munition. Use of the polyamide thermal plastic as a potting compound allows for a gun-hardened electronics assembly. Use of the polyamide thermal plastic as a potting compound also allows for reworkability. For example, during early testing phases of the electronics assembly, the potting material of the present disclosure may be removable (ex.—such as via a hot solvent bath) from the electronics assembly so that the electronics components may be: examined to determine the cause(s) for low yield during testing; and/or fixed, rather than having to rebuild the entire electronics assembly, thereby promoting lower costs of producing the electronics assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark T. Dimke, Marty B. McGregor, Alan P. Boone
  • Patent number: 8631743
    Abstract: A priming device for a projectile incorporating a safety and arming device as well as an electrically initiated detonator that is activated by an electronic firing module, wherein the priming device incorporates a second detonator integral with a rotor or flap of the safety and arming device, the second detonator being activated by a mobile firing pin, such firing pin being arranged opposite a first detonator so as to be projected by the gases resulting from the ignition of the latter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Nexter Munitions
    Inventors: Pierre Pavec, Renaud Lafont
  • Patent number: 8621998
    Abstract: A remote initiator breaching system for initiating breaching charges over a short range requiring no physical link between the breacher and the demolition charge. The remote initiator breaching system has at least one transmitter, at least one receiver, at least one shock tube connectable to a breaching charge and a power source for each of the transmitter and receiver. The transmitter is able to generate and transmit a coded signal. The transmitter has an input for inputting operational commands into the transmitter for generating the coded signal, The transmitter has a plurality of channels representing different frequency bands, and multiple addresses for each channel such that transmission of the coded signal from the transmitter to the receiver is possible per individual addresses or all addresses simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Mas Zengrange (NZ) Limited
    Inventors: Roger Neil Ballantine, Tony Humphries, Deon Grobler, Drago Lavrencic, David Hamilton