With Means To Eject Flare From Casing Patents (Class 102/342)
  • Patent number: 11536545
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a coupling and power transmission system for an electric igniter, in particular for single-shot type fireworks (10), the system comprising a casing (11), in which the pyrotechnic components are housed, said casing having a first side that is open and a second side with a shaped connector (12), said shaped connector (12) comprising a channel (15) for connecting to said pyrotechnic components and adapted to removably receive an electric igniter (16), said electric igniter (16) being rigidly coupled to a printed circuit (18) on a PCB support (17), the printed circuit comprising two concentric tracks which are short-circuited via a connection track on a break-away tab (19) of the PCB support (17), whereby removal of the tab (19) eliminates the short-circuit, said shaped connector (12) being couplable, in a removable manner and with freedom of rotation with respect to an axis, to a docking base (13), said docking base (13) comprising the electronic components for transmission of an e
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2022
    Assignee: Monetti S.R.L.
    Inventors: Luigi Leone Paolo Monetti, Andrea Lenzi
  • Patent number: 10962337
    Abstract: A delayed chaff cartridge for use as a decoy for RF radars may include a hollow longitudinal cartridge; one or more hollow capsules; and a propelling element configured to dispatch the capsule out from the hollow cartridge, wherein each hollow capsule includes: two longitudinal parts connected at second end via a pivot, and wherein, at least one of the two longitudinal parts is truncated at a first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: IMI SYSTEMS LTD.
    Inventors: Eran Leibushor, Roman Sondik, Yaniv-Haim Gur
  • Patent number: 10902747
    Abstract: A system is provided for marketing bedding. The system includes a plurality of air velocity displays each having a body defining a chamber and an opening that is in communication with the chamber, an air flow generator positioned within the chamber, and a sample material that covers the opening such that air flow created by the air flow generator passes through the sample material. The system includes plurality of selection modules. The selection modules each having a user interface that is in communication with one of the air velocity displays such that engaging a feature of one of the user interfaces will cause one of the air flow generators to move from an off position to an on position to create airflow. Methods of use are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: Bedgear, LLC
    Inventor: Eugene Alletto, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10030953
    Abstract: The invention relates to an illumination munition, particularly an illumination payload ejection device housed within a common carrier payload delivery shell, with a frangible safety link. There is provided an illumination munition comprising a shearable tail unit, a main body which comprises a payload cavity for receiving an illumination payload apparatus, a fuze, an ogive element located between said main body and the fuze, and an explosive train operably connected to said fuze, wherein the illumination payload apparatus comprises an illumination composition, a drogue parachute and a main parachute, wherein the main parachute is tethered by a payload tether to the payload apparatus, such that after deployment of said main parachute said payload apparatus descends under the control of said main parachute.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: BAE SYSTEMS plc
    Inventor: Daniel Alexander Adams
  • Patent number: 10001351
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device forming an infrared decoy comprising a pyrotechnic priming part (150), a composition (121) suited to emitting radiation in the infrared domain, and a protective casing (130) for protecting the composition (121) and formed of a plastic sleeve, characterized in that at least one out of a body (150) of the initiation pyrotechnic part and/or of a plug (140) that blanks off the sleeve (130) has an annular groove (152, 142) that opens onto its external periphery and communicates with at least one longitudinal duct (154, 156; 144, 146) which opens onto an end of the body (150) or of the plug (140) in order to accept a polymerizable adhesive tape that bonds the body (150) and/or the plug (140) to the sleeve (130).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2018
    Assignee: ETIENNE LACROIX TOUS ARTIFICES S.A.
    Inventors: Thierry Secco, Cyril Leoquet, Marc Pignol
  • Patent number: 9518791
    Abstract: In a breech loading firearm, an extractor arm is slidingly arranged within a cavity beneath the barrel. The extractor arm has a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, the extractor arm is constrained from rotating, and in the extended position, the extractor arm has at least one degree of rotational freedom in the cavity without bending. The intermediate portion of the extractor arm is thicker than the distal end such that the second thickness fits within the cavity when the extractor arm is in its retracted position. The reduced thickness at the distal end provides a space between the extractor arm and a wall of the cavity when the extractor arm is in its extended position to provide for the rotation of the extractor arm within the cavity in its extended position. The proximal end of the extractor arm has an angled face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: Heizer Defense, LLC
    Inventors: Charles K. Heizer, Thomas C. Heizer, Hedy H. Gahn
  • Patent number: 9222762
    Abstract: The present invention relates to decoys for heat-seeking missiles and methods of producing and using the same. The decoys axe designed to be kinematic or pseudo-kinematic, producing one or more infra-red radiation emitting clouds that give the appearance of a moving infra-red target in the airspace in which the decoy has been released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: ALLOY SURFACES COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: David Dillard, Jason A. Fischer, Rajesh D. Shah, John J. Scanlon, Eric M. Smith, Truong Quang Dinh, David L. Machamer
  • Patent number: 8770109
    Abstract: A flare ignition system for an ejectable flare (10), for protecting moving and/or stationary objects from heat-seeking threats, is disclosed, wherein the flare ignition system is characterized by a heat transfer occurring within a type of tube or tube nozzle (1) provided with one or more heating elements. The flare ignition system is integrated in an ejector system (2), which additionally comprises an accelerator unit (3) surrounding the tube nozzle (1) and a heat insulation (4) bound between the two.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventor: Sven Guth
  • Patent number: 8720340
    Abstract: The rocket launcher includes a launching tube that extends vertically from a flat base. The launching tube is of an undefined length and includes an opening adjacent to the bottom distal end where the flat base attaches. The flat opening includes a hinged door that opens to enable insertion of a rocket or firework therein. The door includes a plurality of small holes thereon so as to enable air to pass there through along with a fuse if applicable. A handle is also attached to and extends from the exterior surface of the launching tube, and enables the rocket launcher to be carried between uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: Henry Edward Kendrix
  • Patent number: 8714089
    Abstract: An activation unit for explosive masses or explosive bodies includes an ejector tube and high-performance heating elements mounted around the ejector tube, each made of at least one heating wire supplied with electrical power by a control unit. Each heating wire is enclosed in a casing and embedded in a material minimizing heat loss. When the explosive body is passed through the activation unit, the jacket surface of the explosive body contacts the individual elements of the activation unit in a direct or non-contact manner. Thermal energy is transferred to the explosive body by means of the heating wires, and the body ignites at the contact points. A further activation unit includes heating elements in the ejector tube, at least partially fed longitudinally through the ejector tube, made of heating wire clad with CrNi steel and contact plates soldered thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Nenand Prelic, Oliver Frank, Heribert Eglauer, Florian Huber
  • Patent number: 8695504
    Abstract: An activation unit (1, 10) for munitions-free decoys, active masses or active bodies (3) is characterized by an ejector tube (2) and a high-powered heater element (4) arranged around the ejector tube (2, 12), wherein the heater element is made up of at least one heating wire (6), provided with electrical current by a regulator unit. Each heating wire (6) is enclosed in a sleeve (7) and embedded in at least one heat-loss minimizing material. The active body (3) passing through the activation unit (1,10) directly or indirectly contacts with the individual elements (4) of the activation unit (1, 10). Thermal energy is transmitted to the active body (3) from the heating wires (6), which ignites at the touching or contact point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Sven Guth, Heribert Eglauer, Frank Oliver, Florian Huber, Nenad Prelic
  • Patent number: 8677904
    Abstract: A tricolor signal flare projectile configured for use with a “high-low” projectile launching system such as the U.S. Army's M-433. The projectile includes a body having a cylindrical side wall and an aft closure. The body's forward portion is open, which provides access to a hollow interior. A delay assembly is installed in the aft closure. The delay assembly includes a delay column. A signal igniter is located just forward of the delay column in the hollow interior of the body. The hollow interior also includes separate volumes of red, white, and blue illuminant. An ogive closes over the top of the hollow interior of the body, thereby encapsulating the other components. When the projectile is fired from a launcher the propellant gases burning with the launcher ignite the delay column. The delay column burns while the projectile travels along its trajectory. After the passage of a desired time interval, the delay column ignites the signal igniter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventors: Matthew D. Rexford, David R. Grymonpre, James P. Muncie, Dale P. Krejcar, Jr., Gilbert D. Rykard, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8516963
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for controlling the launch and burst of pyrotechnic projectiles in a pyrotechnic, or “fireworks”, display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: MagicFire, Inc.
    Inventors: George Bossarte, Paul R. McKinley
  • Patent number: 8485098
    Abstract: The invention relates to a safety device (1) for a block of explosive material, forming a missile decoy, that is introduced into an explosive material container (2) with a sabot (4) and an ignition transmission charge (5). The safety device (1) is characterized by a prestressed tube sensor/slide (6) that is connected between the sabot (4), the ignition transmission charge (5) and the explosive material container (2) such that it can release or re-close an ignition channel (13) disposed between the ignition transmission charge (5) and the explosive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventor: Rainer Gaisbauer
  • Patent number: 8297165
    Abstract: Apparatuses, vehicles, and methods to reduce loads applied to a store when the store is launched from the vehicle are disclosed. A particular apparatus includes a launch chamber and a flap. The launch chamber has a first portion configured to receive a store. A second portion is configured to be positioned over an opening in a hull of a vehicle. The chamber has a forward end and an aft end. The flap is positioned a distance from the aft end of the launch chamber. The flap has a first end rotatably mounted proximate to the first portion of the launch chamber and has a second end extending toward the second portion of the launch chamber. The flap is configured to rotate about the first end when the store impacts the flap due to the forces applied to the store by the fluid when the store is launched.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Matt H. Travis
  • Patent number: 8286556
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an integral-type combined firework, in which several tubular holes whose central longitudinal axes are parallel to each other are uniformly distributed on a body, the tubular holes have openings upward and bottom ends closed, the closed end of the bottom of each tubular hole is provided with one small through hole that penetrates through the bottom of the body and is provided with a spreading fuse, the body, the tubular holes and the small through holes thereof are an integrally molded structure; the bottom in each tubular holes is provided with propellant powder and connected with the spreading fuse, the propellant powder is provided with an inner cylinder or an effect powder on it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventors: Ziyou Zhong, Yongzhang Liu, Weimin Zhong, Liang Zhong, Binbo Gong
  • Patent number: 8276518
    Abstract: The present invention relates to decoys for heat-seeking missiles and methods of producing and using the same. The decoys are designed to be kinematic or pseudo-kinematic, producing one or more infra-red radiation emitting clouds that give the appearance of a moving infra-red target in the airspace in which the decoy has been released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Alloy Surfaces Company, Inc.
    Inventors: David Dillard, Jason A. Fischer, Rajesh D. Shah, John J. Scanlon, Eric M. Smith, Truong Quang Dinh, David L. Machamer
  • Publication number: 20120137915
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for controlling the launch and burst of pyrotechnic projectiles in a pyrotechnic, or “fireworks”, display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventors: George Bossarte, Paul R. McKinley
  • Patent number: 8151707
    Abstract: A pyrotechnic ignitor. The ignitor includes a break charge and a voltage storage component in communication with the break charge, wherein the voltage stored in the voltage storage component is for firing the break charge when the voltage is communicated to the break charge. The ignitor further includes a processor in communication with the voltage storage component, wherein the processor is configured to delay transmission of the voltage stored in the voltage storage component for a predetermined time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Pyrotechnics Management, Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan P. Lasut
  • Patent number: 8079307
    Abstract: Electric match assembly for initiating a pyrotechnic device in response to a signal, the assembly comprising a first element for connection to a leader carrying the signal; a first electric match component for connection to the lift charge of the pyrotechnic device, the first electric match component being connected to the first element such that when the first element is connected to the leader and the first electric match component is connected to the lift charge, the signal is applied to the lift charge; a second electric match component for connection to the time fuse connected to the burst charge of the pyrotechnic device, the second electric match component being connected to the first element such that when the first element is connected to the leader and the second electric match component is connected to the time fuse, the signal is applied to the time fuse of the burst charge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventors: Paul McKinley, Phillip Martinez
  • Publication number: 20110283912
    Abstract: The present invention relates to decoys for heat-seeking missiles and methods of producing and using the same. The decoys are designed to be kinematic or pseudo-kinematic, producing one or more infra-red radiation emitting clouds that give the appearance of a moving infra-red target in the airspace in which the decoy has been released.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: ALLOY SURFACES COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: David P. Dillard, Jason A. Fischer, Rajesh D. Shah, John J. Scanlon, Eric M. Smith, Truong Quang Dinh, David L. Machamer
  • Patent number: 7992496
    Abstract: The present invention relates to decoys for heat-seeking missiles and methods of producing and using the same. The decoys are designed to be kinematic or pseudo-kinematic, producing one or more infra-red radiation emitting clouds that give the appearance of a moving infra-red target in the airspace in which the decoy has been released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Alloy Surfaces Company, Inc.
    Inventors: David P. Dillard, Jason A. Fischer, Rajesh D. Shah, John J. Scanlon, Eric M. Smith, Truong Quang Dinh, David L. Machamer
  • Patent number: 7987788
    Abstract: A dispenser for a platform, configured to be mounted to the platform and connected to power- and control-systems of the platform. The dispenser includes a magazine for a plurality of pyrotechnic countermeasure cartridges. The magazine is configured for removable fixation to the dispenser by one single fixing bolt in a central location thereof for securing the magazine to the dispenser in an operative mode. A first lock associated with the dispenser and a second lock associated with the magazine are configured to arrest the fixing bolt in interlocking engagement with the first lock and preventing the fixing bolt from coming loose due to environmental influence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: SAAB AB
    Inventor: Björn Zachrisson
  • Publication number: 20110146520
    Abstract: A flare ignition system for an ejectable flare (10), for protecting moving and/or stationary objects from heat-seeking threats, is disclosed, wherein the flare ignition system is characterized by a heat transfer occurring within a type of tube or tube nozzle (1) provided with one or more heating elements. The flare ignition system is integrated in an ejector system (2), which additionally comprises an accelerator unit (3) surrounding the tube nozzle (1) and a heat insulation (4) bound between the two.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: RHEINMETALL WAFFE MUNITION GMBH
    Inventor: Sven GUTH
  • Patent number: 7905169
    Abstract: Stores launch tubes and vehicles equipped with stores launch tubes are disclosed. According to a particular illustrative example, a stores launch tube includes a tube member and a flexible seal. The flexible seal couples an exterior of the tube member to a hull. The flexible seal acts as a pressure barrier against an ambient environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Matt H. Travis
  • Patent number: 7793591
    Abstract: A modified projectile round which is configured to function with a propellant cartridge such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,004,074. The projectile assembly uses a High-Low gas pressure cartridge to launch the projectile. When the high pressure cartridge is ignited, hot propellant gases rupture a burst cup and shoot propellant gases toward the aft end of the projectile. The hot propellant gases impinge against a delay carrier located in the aft end of the projectile. The contents of the delay carrier are thereby ignited. The delay carrier includes one or more delay columns ultimately terminating in an igniter charge. The delay columns burn as the projectile is in flight. A specified amount of time later, the igniter charge ignites an ignitable payload—such as a marker flare candle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Martin Electronics
    Inventor: Bruce G. Van Stratum
  • Publication number: 20100083859
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for controlling the launch and burst of pyrotechnic projectiles in a pyrotechnic, or “fireworks”, display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventors: George Bossarte, Paul R. McKinley
  • Patent number: 7681501
    Abstract: The invention discloses a container and support stand for conventional road flares, thereby allowing said stand to support flares during use. The device consists of multiple round flare holders or tubes, which are snapped around a central core holder. The core holder will accommodate four (4) to six (6) flares dependent upon the model. Each flare tube has a waterproof cap. To use, a person would select one or more flare tubes from the central core, remove each cap, and slide out the flare. A locking system to prevent the flare from falling all of the way back into the tube is then activated, along with a spring-levered two-foot support stand. The stand is then deployed with the flare ignited and dropped into the tube. When finished, the spent flare can be discarded, a new one placed in the holder, the cap replaced, and the holder snapped back into the central core holder, thus making the device ready for the next use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventor: Andy L. Wishert
  • Patent number: 7617777
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for controlling the launch and burst of pyrotechnic projectiles in a pyrotechnic, or “fireworks”, display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: MagicFire, Inc.
    Inventors: George Bossarte, Glenn W. Dillon, Paul R. McKinley, Wayne C. Haase, Larry G. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7597038
    Abstract: An exemplary stores launch tube includes an outer tube and an inner tube. The inner tube is disposed interior the outer tube and is configured to reduce load as a store exits therefrom. The inner tube may be made of a flexible material. At least one load-reducing device may be disposed between the inner tube and the outer tube. The inner tube may be received within a canister that has an outer casing that is attachable to the outer tube. Alternately, the inner tube may be attached directly to the outer tube. The inner tube may include more than one tube section. If desired, filler material, such as foam, may be disposed between the inner tube and the outer tube. The outer tube may have a substantially circular cross-section, or an oval cross-section, or any cross-section as desired to accommodate structural considerations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Matt H. Travis
  • Publication number: 20090223402
    Abstract: Pyrotechnic systems and associated methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, a pyrotechnic system includes a combustible material in a housing having a first and second portion. The first portion of the housing can have an inlet for receiving combustion products and the second portion can have an outlet to propagate combustion between the second portion of the housing and the combustible material. The system can further include a combustible carrier material movable from the first portion of the housing to the second portion of the housing. The combustible carrier material can be ignited in a first portion of the housing and capable of sustaining combustion while being moved to the second portion of the housing. Additional embodiments can include a seal positioned to block a migration of combustion products between the first and second portions of the housing when the combustible carrier material is in the first portion of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventors: Neal W. Brune, Andrew R. Dawson, George H. Wessels, Kevin M. Ford
  • Patent number: 7562627
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a pyrotechnic system, system-compatible pyrotechnic objects, and a firing method tailored to the system. The system comprises a starting device having multiple receptacles, having a connection channel between each of the receptacles. The receptacles are filled with the pyrotechnic objects, the first receptacle is provided with an additional ignition device, and the pyrotechnic object located therein is ignited. An igniter externally positioned on the pyrotechnic object conducts the ignition energy into the interior and simultaneously via the connection channel into the neighboring receptacle. A pyrotechnic object located therein is ignited. The igniter externally positioned on the pyrotechnic object partially causes a time delay. The delay time may be set by twisting the pyrotechnic object in relation to the connection channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventor: Andreas Voigt
  • Publication number: 20090151590
    Abstract: A projectile with several flare bodies, which are eccentrically housed in the body of the projectile and are ignited by at least one delay element for each flare body. The expulsion gases are conveyed from the ogive of the projectile to the delay elements through filler elements that form a channel in the center of the projectile for the expulsion gases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventors: Ole Dau, Alfons Sackarndt, Uwe Naderhoff, Michael Schwenzer, Ralf Aumund-Kopp, Manfred Thape, Sebastian Munzner, Martin Rybol
  • Patent number: 7441503
    Abstract: An expendable infra-red radiating means having a rupturable container 1 housing a plurality of decoy plates (11) and an ignition means (17) for igniting the decoy plates (11). Each of the decoy plates (11) comprises a composition of a metal and an oxidant capable of an exothermic combustion reaction upon ignition which produces negligible quantities of radiation in the visible or ultra-violet regions and which results, after the combustion reaction is completed, in the decoy plates (11) containing hot metal emitting infra-red radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: The Secretary of State for Defence in Her Brittanic Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
    Inventor: James D. Callaway
  • Patent number: 7421950
    Abstract: The present invention relates to decoys for heat-seeking missiles and methods of producing and using the same. The decoys are designed to be kinematic or pseudo-kinematic, producing one or more infra-red radiation emitting clouds that give the appearance of a moving infra-red target in the airspace in which the decoy has been released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Alloy Surfaces Company, Inc.
    Inventors: David P. Dillard, Jason A. Fischer, Rajesh D. Shah, John J. Scanlon, Eric M. Smith
  • Patent number: 7373886
    Abstract: A method and an arrangement for discharging countermeasures from a carrier craft in the form of an aircraft or equivalent. The countermeasures are intended to be spread initially in the form of unit packs that, after they have left the carrier craft, are to screen the same from missiles approaching is guided by built-in sensors, or other threats. It is especially characteristic of the invention that the unit countermeasure packs are spread from the carrier transversely to the lying direction of the carrier craft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: SAAB AB
    Inventors: Christer Zätterqvist, Johan Friede
  • Patent number: 7363861
    Abstract: Pyrotechnic systems and associated methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, a pyrotechnic system includes a combustible material in a housing having a first and second portion. The first portion of the housing can have an inlet for receiving combustion products and the second portion can have an outlet to propagate combustion between the second portion of the housing and the combustible material. The system can further include a combustible carrier material movable from the first portion of the housing to the second portion of the housing. The combustible carrier material can be ignited in a first portion of the housing and capable of sustaining combustion while being moved to the second portion of the housing. Additional embodiments can include a seal positioned to block a migration of combustion products between the first and second portions of the housing when the combustible carrier material is in the first portion of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Armtec Defense Products Co.
    Inventors: Neal W. Brune, Andrew R. Dawson, George H. Wessels, Kevin M. Ford
  • Publication number: 20070240350
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a distress flare launcher that can manually or automatically fire pyrotechnic signal flares when a mariner is in distress. During an emergency, the device may be activated automatically by hydrostatic release when the device is inverted or falls into the water, activating a mercury switch with a timing mechanism to fire flares to signal for help.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Publication date: October 18, 2007
    Applicant: THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: George A. Borlase
  • Patent number: 7194959
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for controlling the launch and burst of pyrotechnic projectiles in a pyrotechnic, or “fireworks”, display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: MagicFire, Inc.
    Inventors: George Bossarte, Glenn W. Dillon, Paul R. McKinley, Wayne C. Haase, Larry G. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7104199
    Abstract: A pyrotechnic display device configured to ignite solid pyrotechnic compositions or aerial shells within a launch tube prior to propelling them on a desired arc. A smokeless pyrotechnic propelling charge is disposed within the launch tube below the solid pyrotechnic compositions, and separated therefrom. An ignition source is disposed in operative relationship to the pyrotechnic compositions or aerial shells, which are ignited prior to ignition of the smokeless pyrotechnic propelling charge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventors: Ronald R. Walker, Russell R. Nickel
  • Patent number: 6889611
    Abstract: A smoke shell (10) which includes a shell casing (12), an ogive (14) fixed to the shell casing (12) and a base (22) releasably connected to the shell casing (12). The ogive (14) has a time fuse (18) operatively connected to an ejection charge (20). A number of smoke pots (26) are provided in the shell casing (12) adjoining each other and the base (22) and an ejection plate (28). An ignitor charge (30) is mounted to the ejection plate (28) in the proximity of the ejection charge (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Diehl Munitionssysteme GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Werner Scherer, Josef Schneider, Gerald Rieger
  • Patent number: 6857369
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for controlling the launch and burst of pyrotechnic projectiles in a pyrotechnic, or “fireworks”, display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Magic Fire, Inc.
    Inventors: George Bossarto, Glenn W. Dillon, Paul R. McKinley, Wayne C. Haase, Larry G. Nelson
  • Patent number: 6782826
    Abstract: A method of decoying an incoming missile from a target. The method comprises deploying an array of barrels each containing multiple projectiles, determining a position and orientation for a decoy image of the target in relation to the incoming missile, and firing multiple projectiles substantially simultaneously from respective barrels of the array to create the image. Each projectile contains image forming matter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Metal Storm Limited
    Inventor: James Michael O'Dwyer
  • Patent number: 6666351
    Abstract: A dispenser structure for chaff countermeasures includes at least one chaff dispenser having a dispenser tube with a tube sidewall, a dispensing opening, and a female thread structure in an inner surface of the tube sidewall, and a male worm gear engaged to the female thread structure of the dispenser tube. A drive structure has a motor mount upon which the worm gear is rotatably supported, with the motor mount being mechanically reacted to prevent the motor mount from turning, and a drive motor affixed to the motor mount and having a motor output connected to the worm gear to controllably turn the worm gear. Chaff countermeasures are disposed within the dispenser tube between the worm gear and the dispensing opening, so that they may be pushed out the dispensing opening as the motor turns the worm gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Andrew D. Hartz, Charles M. Poi, Jr., Robert A. Bailey
  • Patent number: 6659012
    Abstract: An ejection device for ejecting a plurality of submunitions (24a-d) having an adapter (10) including a control unit (12, 13, 14a-c, 15a-b, 16) and adapted for releasable fastening in an ejection barrel (2) of a discharger (1), and a submunitions cluster (20) including the submunitions and adapted for releasable connection, both mechanical and electrical, with the adapter. In the assembled condition of the device, the submunitions cluster is connected with the adapter, permitting submunitions to be ejected from the submunitions cluster. The control unit of the adapter controls the device to eject submunitions in one or more of a variety of ejection modes, such as sequentially one by one or at least in part simultaneously. The period between ejection of two consecutive submunitions may be adjustable. The ejection device may be integrated into a discharging unit including at least one discharger (1), such as a conventional discharging unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Buck Neue Technologien GmbH
    Inventors: Josef Grassl, Ralf Heiduczek, Fritz Greindl, Martin Fegg
  • Patent number: 6612242
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cartridge for smoke generation for the protection of combat vehicles, wherein the shell has the form of an integral two-chamber double can (2) including a partition wall shared by both chambers (10), the wall thickness of the partition wall (10) being greater than the wall thickness of the double can outer wall (22), and the front end of the double can (2) being closed gas-tight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Buck Neue Technologien GmbH
    Inventors: Karl Raupp, Werner Brand, Hansjörg Lang, Wolfgang Kukla
  • Patent number: 6502343
    Abstract: An emergency rescue device is provided which includes a plurality of launching tubes, a plurality of upper and lower fixing pieces, a plurality of upper and lower connecting moving pieces, a plurality of groups of tenons and spring units, a lighting device, a plurality of supporting poles, a plurality of upper and lower uniting pieces, a plurality of upper and lower spring holder portions, an outer cylinder and a lid, etc. A flare used in the emergency rescue device comprises a far upper end loaded with signal powders; a second section loaded with pushing powders, below which lighting powders are loaded and are partially exposed to outside the circumference of the flare body; and a far lower end with a tail wing. The emergency rescue device of the present invention allows the flare to be fired immediately and consecutively at the sky for SOS signaling, enabling an immediate rescue for victims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Inventor: Joung Young Cheng
  • Patent number: 6490977
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for controlling the launch and burst of pyrotechnic projectiles in a pyrotechnic, or “fireworks”, display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: MagicFire, Inc.
    Inventors: George Bossarte, Glenn W. Dillon, Paul R. McKinley, Wayne C. Haase, Larry G. Nelson
  • Patent number: 6393990
    Abstract: This invention relates to a firing launching system and method which comprises a base having a plurality of apertures. The plurality of apertures receive a plurality of mortars which, in turn, receive a plurality of Pyrotechnic projectiles which may be situated in the plurality of mortars, respectively. The Pyrotechnic projectiles may then be ignited and launched to provide a fireworks display. The base may be a one-piece molded solid construction and provided with the plurality of apertures such that at least two-thirds of each of the plurality of mortars is encased to provide support to a wall of the mortar. The base may be provided with a plurality of apertures having a common diameter for receiving a common size mortar or receiving one of a plurality of sleeves, each having the same outer diameter, but a varying inner diameter to permit the sleeve to receive a different sized mortars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas J. Fagan
  • Patent number: 6393989
    Abstract: In a towed body with infrared flares located at its rear, the flares are in an ejection unit and are pulled out of the towed body via a tow cable as they ignite, preventing the towed body from being destroyed by missiles when it is used during target simulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: Dornier GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Weimer