Radio Wave Patents (Class 102/214)
  • Patent number: 11441883
    Abstract: A blasting system which includes control equipment and a plurality of detonators which are located in respective boreholes formed in rock, wherein signals from the detonators are magnetically transmitted wirelessly through the rock to the control equipment via different paths between successive detonators, and wherein a signal from the control equipment can be simultaneously transmitted to all of the detonators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: DETNET SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD
    Inventors: Daniel August Julien Louis Maurissens, Elmar Lennox Muller
  • Patent number: 11366272
    Abstract: A polarity switching hybrid interface is configured to couple both optical fibers and electrical conductors. The hybrid interface incorporates polarity switching circuitry such that the polarity of electrical contacts on a first side of the hybrid interface is opposite to the polarity of the electrical contacts on an opposite side of the hybrid interface. As such, the polarity of the electrical conductors coupled to each side of the hybrid interface need not be known. Each side of the hybrid interface is configured to interface with the same type of hybrid optical/electrical connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Assignee: CommScope Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Dwight A. Bretz, Robert Charles Flaig
  • Patent number: 11333475
    Abstract: A communication system includes a transmitter and a receiver connected through a cable. The transmitter transmits a first signal to the receiver using a voltage applied to the cable. A control circuit of the receiver receives the first signal and transmitting a second signal to the transmitter using a current flowing to the cable. A charging circuit of the receiver performs a charging operation by receiving the voltage through the cable and supplying a driving voltage to the control circuit. The control circuit includes a filter generating a second voltage by extracting a voltage within a reference range from a peak voltage of a first voltage and a voltage meter extracting the first signal by measuring the second voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: HANWHA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Se Ho Kim, Jeong Ho Choi
  • Patent number: 11300670
    Abstract: The system and method of weapon on-board range and velocity tracking using a synchronized clock and a pulse beacon on a fire control system, or the like, coupled with an on-board rear-facing detector and processor. A round or a UAS may use this system to accurately estimate range with respect to the fire control system, over time, and the round's or UAS's velocity at various times along its flight path. The system provides for smaller miss distances, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Choiniere, Jason H. Batchelder, Matthew F. Chrobak
  • Patent number: 10852433
    Abstract: Lidar uses light to sense the range to an object. It can be used as a sensor, e.g., for autonomous vehicle navigation, or to generate detailed maps of terrain. A lidar can also sense target speed, optical reflectivity, and spectroscopic signature. As lidars become more widespread, one lidar could interfere with another nearby lidar. Incoherent (time of flight (TOF)) lidars can also be spoofed or hacked. And both coherent and incoherent lidars can be jammed. Modulating the lidar source makes the lidar more resistant to interference, jamming and hacking. In a TOF lidar, each transmitted pulse is modulated in a prearranged or predetermined fashion. A processor in the receiver distinguishes true returns from actual returns based on the modulation or encoding of the transmitted pulses. If the modulation is present, the return signal considered genuine. If the modulation is not present, it is deemed fake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventor: Jerry C. Chen
  • Patent number: 10677909
    Abstract: There is disclosed a method for determining the impact point of a projectile fired at a target (15) tracked by use of a radar antenna (11) through a dedicated antenna beam, the method being characterized in that it comprises at least a step of measuring the range and bearing of the projectile based upon the use of said radar antenna (11) and said dedicated antenna beam, a step of Doppler filtering distinguishing the projectile measurements from the tracked target (15) and sea clutter measurements, and a step of determining the projectile trajectory (131) from a plurality of range and bearing measurements performed at successive instants of time (ti), and a step of determining the impact point of the determined projectile based upon the projectile trajectory (131). The current invention can be applied to splash spot location prediction and miss distance indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: THALES NEDERLAND B.V.
    Inventor: Marinus Josephus Servatius Van Ommeren
  • Patent number: 10637489
    Abstract: A circuit for detecting a signal disturbance comprising a high-pass filter, a comparator, an asynchronous counter, a synchronizer, and processing circuitry. The high-pass filter is configured to generate a filtered signal from a monitored signal. The comparator is configured to generate a compare result signal based on a comparison of the filtered signal and a threshold reference. The asynchronous counter is configured to generate a count value of threshold crossings based on the compare result signal. The synchronizer is configured to generate a synchronous output signal for storage at digital memory that is based on the count signal value. The processing circuitry is configured to determine that a disturbance has occurred at the monitored signal based on the synchronous output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventor: Witold Gora
  • Patent number: 10539403
    Abstract: A proximity sensor for a Laser Guided Bomb (LGB) is provided. A proximity sensor for a Laser Guided Bomb (LGB) includes: an electronics package unit (EPU) configured to be connected to a front end of a warhead; and at least one sensor separate from the EPU and configured to be connected to a forward adapter that is connected to the front end of the warhead. The at least one sensor is configured to obtain data that is used to determine a height above ground of the LGB. The EPU is configured to compare the determined height above ground to a predefined value. The EPU is configured to generate a detonation signal for the warhead based on the determined height above ground being equal to or less than the predefined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2020
    Assignee: KAMAN PRECISION PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Barry A. Maxwell
  • Patent number: 10386471
    Abstract: A method of estimating velocity from a return signal originating from a single linear frequency modulated (LFM) signal. The method includes the steps of receiving a return signal originating from a transmitted LFM signal. A first filter is applied to the return signal for generating a first response signal. A second filter is also applied to the return signal for generating a second response signal. An estimate of velocity of a potential target identified in the return signal is calculated according to the ratio of the second response signal to the first response signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jude C. Giampaolo, John A. MacLachlan
  • Patent number: 9846016
    Abstract: Methods, devices, and systems may protect a target from undesirable electromagnetic radiation by detecting electromagnetic radiation (including coherent radiation such as laser beams) aimed at a target from a source; calculating a first release position to disrupt the electromagnetic radiation thereby protecting the target; launching a projectile that may include a disruptive medium or a disruptive-medium precursor; directing the projectile to the first release position; and releasing the disruptive medium from the projectile at the first release position, such that the releasing of the disruptive medium forms a cloud of the disruptive medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2017
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Donald V. Drouin, Jr., Mark J. Clemen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9347752
    Abstract: According to the invention, the rear part of the connecting element (1), which part is intended to be connected to a body (4) made of composite material, comprises at least one abutment (13) of annular shape, centered with respect to a longitudinal axis (10) and intended to come into contact with the front edge (14) of said body (4), and a longitudinal rearward extension (15) which is defined from said abutment (13) onward and which comprises a contact face (16) and has a shape and diameter suited to said body (4) so that its contact face (16) can come laterally into contact with a peripheral surface (17) thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: MBDA France
    Inventors: Michel Blin, Germain Chevalier
  • Patent number: 8985000
    Abstract: Inductive or capacitive transmission of energy to a projectile is disclosed. A waveguide can be used to transmit the energy, the electric field being concentrated in the waveguide. The thus used energy transfer system includes at least one waveguide which is arranged or integrated in the region of the muzzle, for example between a muzzle brake and a gun barrel. A transmission coupler for transmission is fed by a signal generator. The projectile comprises at least one sensor which captures the signal and a store in the projectile is charged. Assemblies of the system are used for a V0 measurement as well as to program the projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Air Defence AG
    Inventor: Henry Roger Frick
  • Patent number: 8984999
    Abstract: A programmable ammunition which receives a program as well as energy transmission is provided. The ammunition also comprises an energy store, an electronic system and an ignition in addition to at least one sensor for capturing the signal emitted for the program, the signal having a frequency which is transmitted further to the electronic system. The ammunition is also combined with an energy transfer unit in such a manner that an additional signal having a frequency is guided to the energy unit by the same the sensor and/or an additional sensor and is charged. Programming and the energy transmission occurs when the projectile passes through a weapon barrel, a muzzle brake or similar which is operated as a waveguide below the threshold frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Air Defence AG
    Inventor: Henry Roger Frick
  • Patent number: 8943942
    Abstract: An anti-fratricide responsive ordnance system that uses the power of a friendly radio frequency signal to detect and identify a friendly force. Upon identification, an electronic safe and arm device disarms the munition when it enters a kill radius of the friendly force emitting the friendly radio signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Stephen F. Bartolucci
  • Patent number: 8939081
    Abstract: A weapon-locating ladar system estimates a backward trajectory of an airborne target by using flow field measurements to follow the wake turbulence trailing the airborne target from a position at which the target is detected backwards until the wake is no longer observable. The system may use the backward trajectory to estimate the point-of-origin of the target. The system may also use the flow field measurements along the backward trajectory to classify the target. Target classification may be used to refine the point-of-origin estimate, to influence counter-fire or to adapt the flow field measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Duane Donald Smith, Robert William Byren
  • Patent number: 8746119
    Abstract: An inductive or capacitative programming of a projectile is disclosed. A waveguide is used for the programming, the electromagnetic field being concentrated in the waveguide. The used programming unit includes at least one waveguide which is preferable located and/or integrated in the region of the muzzle, for example in front of the muzzle brake. A transmission coupler for the transmission is fed by a signal generator. The information relating to the projectile is modulated to the carrier frequency in the modulator. A reception coupler integrated on/in the projectile is electrically interconnected to a store or processor in the projectile. The reception coupler receives the modulated signal and transmits it to the processor which is where the eventual programming takes place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Air Defence AG
    Inventor: Henry Roger Frick
  • Patent number: 8125398
    Abstract: A multi-element anti-jamming (A/J) antenna array is disclosed. The multi-element anti-jamming (A/J) array may include a circularly-polarized edge slot antenna and a dielectric resonator antenna. The circularly-polarized edge slot antenna and the dielectric resonator antenna are configured for implementation within an artillery shell, munition, or the like. The circularly-polarized edge slot antenna may be a gun-hard, embedded GPS antenna having an on-axis phase center. Further, the circularly-polarized edge slot antenna may have a forward-looking radiation pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventor: Lee M. Paulsen
  • Patent number: 7810430
    Abstract: A wireless or partially wireless detonator assembly (10) and corresponding blasting apparatus, that may be “powered Up” by a remote source of power (13) that is entirely distinct from the energy used for general command signal communications (16). In one embodiment, the detonator assembly (10) may include an active power source (25) with sufficient power for communications, but insufficient power to cause intentional or inadvertent actuation of the detonator (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Orica Explosives Technology Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Sek Kwan Chan, Ronald F. Stewart, Howard A. Bampfield
  • Patent number: 7757607
    Abstract: A remote pyrotechnic ignition system includes a power supply for producing an electrical current in a transmitting induction coil to induce an electrical current in a receiving induction coil for igniting a pyrotechnic device. Thus, a wireless ignition communication section allows pyrotechnic mortars to be reused and substantially reduces set-up time by eliminating the wiring of fireworks normally required for a pyrotechnic production. Optionally, a capacitor is charged by the power source via a charging circuit and discharged via a firing circuit to produce the electric current in the transmitting coil in a pulse. The capacitor provides a two-stage firing safety feature. An electronic control device such as a circuit board may be mounted on the pyrotechnic device for controlling ignition of the pyrotechnic device and is especially useful in controlling ignition sequencing and overall ignition timing of a lift charge and burst charge of the pyrotechnic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventor: James G. Deye
  • Patent number: 7721648
    Abstract: A method of assembling an external telemetry unit for a projectile comprising the steps of providing a shell whose inside is formed to match the contour of the projectile body, encircling the front of the shell with a flexible battery and flexible electronic circuitry, and covering the flexible battery and flexible electronic circuitry with a plurality of contoured antennas. Also disclosed is a method of using an external telemetry unit comprising the steps of removing the fuze from a projectile having a projectile body and a fuze, sliding the unit over the front of the projectile body; reinstalling the fuze, firing the projectile, and observing the projectile data transmitted by the unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary
    Inventor: Kenneth R. McMullen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7581501
    Abstract: A fin-stabilized projectile suitable for launching from a shotgun or similar weapon. The projectile may penetrate easily breakable materials but will not penetrate tougher materials. The projectile may be shot through an easily breakable surface to gain entry to a target location, but further penetration is inhibited. The projectile is equipped with an on board sensor. The halves of the projectile casing form a dipole antenna for transmitting information gathered by the on board sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Donald M. Boone, Carl Gotzmer, Kenneth B. Johnson, Leonard D. Lipton, Michael R. Scherr
  • Patent number: 7498969
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a fuze application capable of GPS (Global Positioning System) and proximity radar functionality by co-locating a proximity radar antenna with a GPS DRA (Dielectric Resonator Antenna) fuze. The GPS DRA fuze has a HE11? mode structure resulting in an E-field null at the center. The monopole proximity radar antenna is mounted in the E-field null center and is thus electrically isolated from the GPS DRA fuze. The high dielectric constant permits the GPS DRA fuze to operate in the L1 frequency and the electrically shortened proximity radar antenna to resonate in the C-Band within a small form factor. The GPS DRA fuze maintains a forward-looking CP (circular polarization) pattern while proximity antenna maintains a desirable monopole pattern. Nesting allows mounting of both GPS and proximity radar antennas on the fuze nose while reducing the total space occupied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventors: Lee M. Paulsen, James B. West
  • Publication number: 20080307993
    Abstract: A wireless or partially wireless detonator assembly (10) and corresponding blasting apparatus, that may be “powered Up” by a remote source of power (13) that is entirely distinct from the energy used for general command signal communications (16). In one embodiment, the detonator assembly (10) may include an active power source (25) with sufficient power for communications, but insufficient power to cause intentional or inadvertent actuation of the detonator (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2005
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Applicant: Orica Explosives Technology Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Sek Kwan Chan, Ronald F. Stewart, Howard A. Bampfield
  • Patent number: 7453392
    Abstract: A radar processor for controlling detonation of a munition and operable to receive a detonation altitude from an external source is provided. The radar processor is configured to set a first range gate and a reference range gate based on the received detonation altitude, and cause a radar transmitter to operate in a continuous wave mode, for a predetermined period, upon receipt of radar return signals through the first range gate. The radar processor calculates a velocity of the munition from continuous wave return signals, and calculates a time delay for outputting a detonation signal based on the received detonation altitude, the calculated velocity, and a reference altitude of the munition, the altitude of the munition calculated based upon receipt of radar return signals through the reference range gate. The radar transmitter operates in a pulse mode while the munition is outside the reference range gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Steven H. Thomas, Timothy J. Reilly
  • Publication number: 20080202324
    Abstract: In one aspect, an artillery projectile apparatus is provided that includes a carrier projectile containing a payload, and a fuze disposed at an ogive of the projectile and which is configured to eject the payload when the fuze is detonated. The fuze includes a receiver configured to receive location information from a radionavigation source and a processor configured to acquire position data from the receiver. The processor is also configured to estimate a projectile flight path using the position data, to determine intercept parameters of the artillery projectile relative to an ejection plane of its payload cargo, and to adjust an ejection event initiation command time of the payload in accordance with the determined intercept parameters. In some configurations, the present invention dramatically decreases range errors typically associated with delivering artillery payloads to specific targets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventor: Michael F. Steele
  • Patent number: 7417582
    Abstract: A proximity fuze (proximity fuse) comprising an ultra wideband (UWB) radar transmitter, a UWB radar receiver, an antenna, a timing system, and a signal processor. One embodiment includes an antenna with an annular conical radiation pattern. In another embodiment, a trigger delay is produced that is related to target detection range. In a further embodiment, multiple range shells are utilized to further discriminate target characteristics including velocity. A method is disclosed that utilizes target range, velocity, signal amplitude, and radar signal phase to identify the target and trigger the detonation. A proximity fuze system having a long storage life is disclosed comprising a proximity fuze element powered by a turbine generator and internal gas source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Time Domain Corporation
    Inventors: Dennis L. Troutman, Herbert U. Fluhler, Larry W. Fullerton, Douglas D. Fitzpatrick, James Richards
  • Patent number: 7370583
    Abstract: A method for wirelessly transmitting data to a control unit, such as a blasting machine, selected from a plurality of control units from an operating device selected from a plurality of operating devices, and a system intended for the method. The control unit is connected to a plurality of detonators, which are controlled by the control unit via an electrical wire or a fuse. The operating device is associated with the appropriate control unit in a step in which address data and/or encryption data is exchanged between the units. Only one operating device can be associated with a pre-determined control unit at any given moment. The data transmitted in accordance with the method preferably comprises at least a fire command, which instructs the control unit to fire the detonators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Dyno Nobel Sweden AB
    Inventors: Anne-Marie Bokvist, legal representative, Elof Jönsson, Jan Westberg, Sune Hallin
  • Publication number: 20080098921
    Abstract: The invention provides a blasting system which includes a plurality of electronic detonators which are configured in a blast array which has at least one row and a plurality of detonators in the row, each detonator including a memory in which is stored at least a respective identity code which is dependent, at least, on the row on which the detonator is, and on the detonator's position in the row, a harness which interconnects the detonators, and at least one control unit, connected to the harness, which generates a signal to fire the detonators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventors: Albertus Abraham Labuschagne, Andre Louis Koekemoer, Craig Charles Schlenter
  • Patent number: 7352319
    Abstract: A method for controlling a detonation altitude of a radar equipped munition is described. The method includes calculating a velocity of the munition while the munition is at an altitude greater than the desired detonation altitude, determining when the munition is at a reference altitude, and calculating a time representing when the vehicle will reach the desired detonation altitude based on the calculated velocity and determined reference altitude. The method also includes generating a fusing signal to detonate the munition after the calculated time has passed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Steven H. Thomas, Timothy J. Reilly
  • Patent number: 7296520
    Abstract: An external telemetry unit for a projectile. The external telemetry unit comprises a shell adapted to be inserted between the front of the projectile body and the fuze, a flexible battery and flexible electronic circuitry encircling the front of the shell, and a plurality of contoured antennas covering the flexible battery and flexible electronic circuitry. The inside of the shell is formed to match the contour of the projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: United States of America as Represented by the Secretary
    Inventor: Kenneth R. McMullen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7225740
    Abstract: A plasma antenna generator includes an ionizable material, an explosive charge capable of projecting the ionizable material upon detonation, and a detonator coupled with the explosive charge. An electromagnetic pulse transmitting system includes an electromagnetic pulse generator and a plasma antenna generator capable of reradiating an electromagnetic pulse emitted from the electromagnetic pulse generator. A method includes providing an explosive device comprising an ionizable material, detonating the explosive device to propel the ionizable material, and ionizing the ionizable material to form at least one plasma trail. A sensing system includes an electromagnetic pulse generator, a plasma antenna generator capable of reradiating an electromagnetic pulse emitted from the electromagnetic pulse generator, and a sensing system capable of receiving and analyzing at least a portion of the electromagnetic pulse after being reflected from an interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: James R. Wood, Roger W. Melin, Mark K. Browder, Steve E. Calico
  • Patent number: 7098841
    Abstract: A unit is described that is configured to control detonation of a munition such that the munition is detonated at a desired altitude. The unit includes a radar transmitter, a radar receiver that includes a radar range gate, and a sequencer. The sequencer is configured to receive a detonation altitude and set the range gate based on the received detonation altitude. The unit is also configured to output a detonation signal when radar return pulses received by the receiver aligned with gate delay pulses from the range gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Hager, Glen Backes, Timothy J. Reilly
  • Patent number: 6919840
    Abstract: A proximity sensor for use with a guidance system of a smart bomb including a ranging radar proximity sensor configured for mounting on a smart bomb and a radome connected to the ranging radar proximity sensor. A laser radiation sensor system is attached to the proximity sensor, which is configured and arranged to detect laser radiation reflected from a target which passes through the radome and output the azimuth and elevation angles to the target to the guidance system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventors: William A. Friedrich, Lyle H. Johnson, Mark K. Conrad
  • Patent number: 6919846
    Abstract: A slot antenna for the fuse of artillery ammunition, is provided through a sandwich structure in which an axially divided resonator ring chamber axially enclosed between upper and lower metallic cover discs profiled to be stable in respect of shape, is provided with a dielectric ring disc which extends with a peripherally extending color radially opposite a central cylindrical reflector wall through an axial slot between the two hollow-cylindrical outside walls of the ring chamber to the outer surface of the fuse casing which is also peripherally slit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Diehl Munitionssysteme GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Volker Koch, Martin Hertel
  • Patent number: 6874402
    Abstract: A projectile, having a casing, a projectile base, which closes the casing off at the rear, a receiver coil for receiving electromagnetic signals, an energy source which is put into contact with the receiver coil, and a logic module. The casing is made from a plastic material, at least in the area of the rear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Oerlikon Contraves Pyrotec AG
    Inventor: Peter Ettmueller
  • Patent number: 6851369
    Abstract: Blasting apparatuses and methods control actuation of a plurality of detonators, and involve the use of one or more authorization keys each associated with a blasting machine. The authorization key(s) are transferable from the blasting machine(s) to a central command station, each authorization key storing a data package comprising a randomly generated access code generated by its corresponding blasting machine. Transfer of the one or more authorization keys to a central command station allows the data packages (and associated randomly generated access codes) to be transmitted by the central command station for receipt by the blasting machine(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Orica Explosives Technology PTY Ltd.
    Inventors: Dirk Hummel, Olaf Cramer
  • Patent number: 6843178
    Abstract: A plasma antenna generator includes an ionizable material, an explosive charge capable of projecting the ionizable material upon detonation, and a detonator coupled with the explosive charge. An electromagnetic pulse transmitting system includes an electromagnetic pulse generator and a plasma antenna generator capable of reradiating an electromagnetic pulse emitted from the electromagnetic pulse generator. A method includes providing an explosive device comprising an ionizable material, detonating the explosive device to propel the ionizable material, and ionizing the ionizable material to form at least one plasma trail. A sensing system includes an electromagnetic pulse generator, a plasma antenna generator capable of reradiating an electromagnetic pulse emitted from the electromagnetic pulse generator, and a sensing system capable of receiving and analyzing at least a portion of the electromagnetic pulse after being reflected from an interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: James R. Wood, Roger W. Melin, Mark K. Browder, Steve E. Calico
  • Patent number: 6834591
    Abstract: A proximity fuze for use in a tube launched projectile carrying a payload, comprising an oscillator for generating a radio frequency signal which has a varying frequency, a single antenna for transmitting the radio frequency signal and for receiving an echo of the radio frequency signal, a first signal processor for generating a range signal corresponding to the time delay between the transmission of the radio frequency signal and the receipt of the echo signal, second signal processor for comparing the range signal with a reference signal and depending on the result of the comparison generating an activation signal for activating the payload, wherein a directional coupler is used for coupling the radio frequency signal from the oscillator to the antenna and to the signal processor and for coupling the echo signal from the antenna to the signal processor, and wherein the second signal processor comprises a threshold detector, a peak detector and a comparator, the threshold detector being for allowing the comp
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: BAE Systems plc
    Inventors: John G. Rawcliffe, David E. Patrick, John Anderson
  • Patent number: 6817296
    Abstract: A fuzing system for non-spinning or substantially non-spinning weapons is implemented by means of wide angle optics providing at least forward-hemisphere coverage, an array of infrared detectors and a microprocessor for image and data processing, aim-point selection, directional-warhead aiming and skewed-cone fuzing. The skewed-cone fuzing has a generatrix which is the vector sum of missile velocity, warhead velocity and the negative of target velocity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: Hayden N. Ringer, Abraham Shrekenhamer
  • Patent number: 6707417
    Abstract: A radar system having a tactical mode and a calibration mode includes a transmitter section for providing high-power amplification of an RF pulsed waveform from an exciter during the tactical mode and the calibration mode. A circulator system has an input port connected to an output of the transmitter section and including first, second and third switchable junctions, and a high-power attenuator. The circulator system provides a transmit tactical mode signal path and a transmit calibration mode signal path of virtually identical electrical path lengths for a transmitter output signal, the tactical path passing through the first, second and third junctions in a first direction to an antenna I/O port, the calibration path passing through the first, second and third junctions in a second direction and through the high-power attenuator to an output port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Steven Edward Huettner, Steven Craig Rein, Douglas Richard Baker
  • Patent number: 6615734
    Abstract: A munition article is to be provided with an antenna which, by virtue of a characteristic which is uniform all around, permits interference-free reception of items of satellite navigation information, even if in the manner of an artillery projectile it is fired with spin along an elongate ballistic trajectory, so that a tail antenna with a spherical characteristic does not allow the expectation of good reception factors in relation to navigation satellites which are as high as possible above the horizon. Therefore the tip (10) of the fuse tip (11) of the projectile is equipped with a dipole satellite antenna which faces in the direction of flight. Connected to the dipole (13) which is arranged concentrically with respect to the longitudinal axis (14) of the projectile are symmetrically disposed conductor portions (15) which rest with a close fit in recesses (19) in the ballistic cap (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Diehl Munitionssysteme GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Volker Koch, Martin Hertel, Werner Wiesbeck, Eberhard Gschwendtner
  • Patent number: 6518912
    Abstract: A signal processing circuit is disclosed for providing fuze-on-jam capability in a target detecting device, while in the presence of continuous wave or continuous wave noise jammer signals. A target detection system will protect the target detecting device from noise jammers and continuous wave radars or continuous wave jammers by providing a circuit which samples the negative or positive bias produced by the noise modulated CW signal and produces either positive or negative polarity as seen by the antenna. If negative pulses are produced, they will actuate the target detecting gate and guard circuit and after the missile has passed the critical angle of the antenna the phase change will then produce firing in the normal manner. The sampled output is fed into the target detecting mixing circuit and no interference with normal operations of the target detecting device occurs while a fuze-on-jam or CW capability is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1966
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: John O. Dick, Erwin I. Abadie, Kenneth A. Lawlor
  • Patent number: 6480140
    Abstract: The present invention is to a method and system for providing protection from an EMS-targeted weapon by providing an appropriate spoofed EMS signal to cause an EMS-targeted weapon to determine an apparent object distance sufficiently close to the EMS-based targeting threat to nullify the weapon. In a first embodiment, the EMS-based targeting threat uses reflected EMS emissions, such as RADAR, to target the object the apparent object distance nullifies the weapon by falling within a weapon-safety lockout distance determined by a fire control system of the targeting threat. In another embodiment, the EMS-based targeting threat uses EMS signals from an external source, such as GPS, to target a position of the object and the apparent object distance nullifies the weapon by causing premature detonation at a safe standoff distance from said object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventor: Jonathan B. Rosefsky
  • Patent number: 6473041
    Abstract: A munition article (11) is to be provided with an antenna (18) which, by virtue of a characteristic which is uniform all around, permits interference-free reception of items of satellite navigation information, even if in the manner of an artillery projectile (12) it is fired with spin along an elongate ballistic trajectory, so that a tail antenna with a spherical characteristic does not allow the expectation of good reception factors in relation to navigation satellites which are as high as possible above the horizon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Diehl Munitionssysteme GmbH & Co. KG.
    Inventors: Volker Koch, Martin Hertel, Werner Wiesbeck, Eberhard Gschwendtner
  • Publication number: 20020144619
    Abstract: A proximity fuze for use in a tube launched projectile carrying a payload, comprising an oscillator for generating a radio frequency signal which has a varying frequency, a single antenna for transmitting the radio frequency signal and for receiving an echo of the radio frequency signal, a first signal processor for generating a range signal corresponding to the time delay between the transmission of the radio frequency signal and the receipt of the echo signal, second signal processor for comparing the range signal with a reference signal and depending on the result of the comparison generating an activation signal for activating the payload, wherein a directional coupler is used for coupling the radio frequency signal from the oscillator to the antenna and to the signal processor and for coupling the echo signal from the antenna to the signal processor, and wherein the second signal processor comprises a threshold detector, a peak detector and a comparator, the threshold detector being for allowing the comp
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventors: John G. Rawcliffe, David E. Patrick, John Anderson
  • Patent number: 6389974
    Abstract: A passive proximity fuze. The inventive fuze (10) is adapted to be mounted on a munition (11) and includes a receiver (16) adapted to lock on to a signal transmitted by a target transmitter (12). The receiver (16) detects a Doppler shift in the signal as the munition approaches the target. When a closest point of approach is reached the Doppler shift changes from increasing to decreasing. The inventive fuze (10) includes a mechanism for detecting this change in the Doppler shift and provides a detonation signal in response thereto. In the illustrative embodiment, the receiver (16) is an FM receiver. The mechanism for detecting a change in the Doppler shift may be implemented with discrete analog circuitry or digital circuitry. In an illustrative analog implementation, first and second resistive/capacitive networks (R1C1 and R2C2) are employed to compute a second derivative of the Doppler shift signal output by the receiver (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Carl G. Foster
  • Patent number: 6279478
    Abstract: A fuzing system for non-spinning or substantially non-spinning weapons is implemented by means of wide angle optics providing at least forward-hemisphere coverage, an array of infrared detectors and a microprocessor for image and data processing, aim-point selection, directional-warhead aiming and skewed-cone fuzing. The skewed-cone fuzing has a generatrix which is the vector sum of missile velocity, warhead velocity and the negative of target velocity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Inventors: Hayden N. Ringer, Abraham Shrekenhamer
  • Patent number: 6271464
    Abstract: A detector assembly which includes an electrically conductive, two-piece, molded plastic housing including a relatively rigid bulkhead portion having a groove and a second dome portion having a sidewall extending over an adjacent bulkhead portion. The dome portion has a plurality of relatively flexible tabs, a part of each tab extending into the groove and making mechanical contact with the bulkhead portion via the groove to provide a press fit therebetween. An electrically conductive barrel is disposed within the housing and is electrically connected via an electrically conductive o-ring to the bulkhead to form an electrically shielded chamber within the housing in conjunction with the bulkhead and the dome portions. Equipment to be shielded is disposed within the chamber and is secured to the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Robert J. Cunningham
  • Patent number: 6260483
    Abstract: In a radio remote blasting system, a radio receiver triggers a blocking oscillator which generates a high voltage output. A rectifier rectifies the high voltage output and charges a capacitor, which is coupled to a plasma arc generator to apply the capacitor voltage to the plasma arc generator and generate a high voltage arc in the arc generator. The end of a shock tube is received in a port in the arc generator and the arc produced in the arc generator will ignite explosive material in the shock tube. The resulting explosion will travel from the point of ignition to an explosive device which will then be detonated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Inventor: Richard N. Snyder
  • Patent number: 6198425
    Abstract: A target detection device of the electromagnetic transmitter-receiver reaction type comprising a radio frequency oscillator which is integral with its radiating system and detector. It incorporates a pulse modulator which drives the oscillator to periods of high power transmission and a signal processing system to reject unwanted data and to effect detonation of the warhead at the optimum point on its trajectory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1970
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: John J. Nastronero