With Support Means Patents (Class 102/358)
  • Publication number: 20140338553
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a gas generator (10) comprising a body (12) delimiting at least one part of a combustion chamber (20), said part housing a primary pyrotechnic charge (16) adapted to generate gases in the combustion chamber (20) when said charge is initiated in combustion, and a slide valve (60) located outside said body (12) and defining with the latter a second chamber (66) housing a secondary pyrotechnic charge (74) whereof the self-ignition temperature is less than that of the primary pyrotechnic charge (16). A gas flow channel (50) for flowing gas out of the combustion chamber (20) is formed in the body (12). According to the invention, the slide valve (60) blocks this channel when it is in a first position, and under the effect of gases released by said secondary pyrotechnic charge (74), the slide valve is adapted to move to a second position wherein the channel (50) is no longer sealed off, allowing the gases contained in the combustion chamber (20) to flow outwards to the exterior.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Inventor: Jean-Marc Besson
  • Patent number: 8807037
    Abstract: An improved, multiple-use fireworks launcher (10) is provided for the launching of fireworks such as an artillery shell (40) having a lower lift charge (42) and an upper effect charge (44). The launcher (10) includes a base (12), with an upstanding, open-top launch tube (14) operably coupled with the base (12). A reinforcing section (16) is positioned about the lower end of launch tube (14), and preferably comprises a tubular sleeve (36) tightly secured to the outer surface (32) of launch tube (14). The combined thickness of the tube (14) and section (16) are sufficient to prevent catastrophic failure of the launcher (10) in the event a shell (40) is improperly placed within the tube (14) in an inverted condition with the lift charge (42) thereof positioned over the effect charge (44).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Jake's Fireworks Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Marietta
  • Publication number: 20140007787
    Abstract: A pyrotechnic launcher that comprises at least one pyrotechnic launching tube (1), at least one frame which comprises cover (2), and in which said pyrotechnic launching tube (1) is prepared for housing inside it at least one pyrotechnic device (8); in which said pyrotechnic launching tube (1) comprises at least two openings located at its top and bottom ends that enable the introduction and deployment of the pyrotechnic device (8), both through its top opening and its bottom opening, in which at least one locking element (3) holds said pyrotechnic device (8); and in which the internal face of said pyrotechnic launching tube (1) comprises some interlocking means (17a) which enable locking said pyrotechnic device (8) in a direct manner or by means of an intermediate element, through some locking means (17b, 17b?) pertaining to said pyrotechnic device (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Applicant: PIROTECNIA CABALLER, S.A.
    Inventor: Vicente Caballer Barat
  • Patent number: 8375858
    Abstract: A fireworks launching stand comprises a post, a cap attached to a top of the post, and at least one horizontal arm attached to the cap. The horizontal arm can be tilted. Fireworks tubes suitable for use with rockets and/or Roman candles are attached to the horizontal arm. The use of the stand reduces the risk of injury to the user due to improper handling of lit fireworks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Alfonza Steadman, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8365667
    Abstract: An improved, multiple-use fireworks launcher (10) is provided for the launching of fireworks such as an artillery shell (40) having a lower lift charge (42) and an upper effect charge (44). The launcher (10) includes a base (12), with an upstanding, open-top launch tube (14) operably coupled with the base (12). A reinforcing section (16) is positioned about the lower end of launch tube (14), and preferably comprises a tubular sleeve (36) tightly secured to the outer surface (32) of launch tube (14). The combined thickness of the tube (14) and section (16) are sufficient to prevent catastrophic failure of the launcher (10) in the event a shell (40) is improperly placed within the tube (14) in an inverted condition with the lift charge (42) thereof positioned over the effect charge (44).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Jake's Fireworks Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Marietta
  • Patent number: 8322285
    Abstract: A combined firework is disclosed. In the combined firework, several tubular holes whose central longitudinal axes are parallel to each other are uniformly distributed in 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 two small through holes penetrating through the bottom of the body and respectively provided with an inward fuse and an outward fuse in series connection. The body, the tubular holes and the small through holes thereof are an integrally molded structure. On the bottom in the tubular hole propellant powder is provided and connected with the outward fuse and the inward fuse. On the propellant powder an inner cylinder or effect powder is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventors: Ziyou Zhong, Yongzhang Liu, Weimin Zhong, Liang Zhong, Binbo Gong
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20120227610
    Abstract: A retainer for a firework that can be used indoors which can also be placed on the neck of a bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventor: Norbert Reichart
  • Publication number: 20110017087
    Abstract: A combined firework is disclosed in the invention. In the combined firework, several tubular holes whose central axes are parallel to each other are uniformly distributed in 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 two small through holes penetrating through the bottom of the body and respectively provided with an inward fuse and an outward fuse in series connection, the body, the tubular holes and the small through holes thereof are an integral structure moulded in one time; on the bottom in the tubular hole propellant powder is provided and connected with the outward fuse and the inward fuse, on the propellant powder an inner cylinder or effect powder is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventors: Ziyou ZHONG, Yongzhang LIU, Weimin ZHONG, Liang ZHONG, Binbo GONG
  • Publication number: 20110017088
    Abstract: A fireworks launching stand comprises a post, a cap attached to a top of the post, and at least one horizontal arm attached to the cap. The horizontal arm can be tilted. Fireworks tubes suitable for use with rockets and/or Roman candles are attached to the horizontal arm. The use of the stand reduces the risk of injury to the user due to improper handling of lit fireworks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Alfonza Steadman, SR.
  • Patent number: 7717041
    Abstract: A simple device for generating pyrotechnic effects, in which an enveloping body (11) is formed from a plurality of interconnected plate-like layers between which the pyrotechnic charges (10) as well as the igniter means (12) are embedded. A configuration of the igniter means (12) as heating resistors, in particular as heating resistors whose conductors run in a meandering path. Such igniter means (12) are particularly suitable for use in the formation of a plate-like enveloping body consisting of a plurality of layers. By virtue of this enveloping body, the device assumes a shape comparable to that of a credit card or bank card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Chemring Defence Germany GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Garms, Oliver Schultz, Arthur Detlef Zahn
  • Patent number: 7681502
    Abstract: A styling pyrotechnic device comprising multiple, two preferred, bearing members with each disposed with multiple locating holes to receive insertion of multiple pyrotechnic tubes; each pyrotechnic tube being erected at a certain inclination; multiple locating holes on each bearing member being arranged in a circle; each circle having its circumference same as or different from that of another circle for multiple pyrotechnic tubes to be erected at different inclinations to produce various styling effects when fired into the skies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Inventor: Chao-Chen Huang
  • Patent number: 7669742
    Abstract: A tactical device holster (TDH) system is described that is a complete carry and deployment solution allowing for split-second deployment of hand-held non-lethal/lethal deployable devices (HNLDD) by tactical personnel. The TDH system allows tactical personnel to deploy HNLDDs without having to disarm because deployment requires only a single hand, and the TDH system indexes the HNLDD in the proper position for deployment. The TDH system allows the HNLDD to go from secure carry to deployment in under one second while not impeding the deadly force option during deployment. The TDH system keeps the fuze lever of the HNLDD fixed in a pre-specified position. The HNLDD is not altered for use with the TDH system and allows quick insertion of the HNLDD. The TDH system supports numerous HNLDDs and tactical pyrotechnic and incendiary devices, and can be fixed to various tactical clothing, vests, holsters, equipment, and vehicle components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Derek Rush
  • Patent number: 7597047
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a system for simulating an actual explosion of an explosive device includes one or more firing devices and a control module. A firing device comprises a pyrotechnic device operable to direct a pyrotechnic explosion in a predetermined direction to simulate the actual explosion of the explosive device. The control module receives a trigger signal from a trigger device, which is operable to send the trigger signal in response to a trigger event. The control module detonates the firing devices in response to the trigger signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignees: Raytheon Company, Pacific Coast Systems LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Doyle, Diana P. Schaeffer
  • Publication number: 20090199735
    Abstract: A fastener device of the present invention is made for connecting pyrotechnic elements such as lances, gerbs and sparklers to a frame. This novelty fastener is comprised with a spring portion which allows the bending of the pyrotechnic element to lay against the surface of the frame. The fastener makes it possible to mount pyrotechnic material in a remote location, attach the ignition fuse but use less space on the truck in transportation and cause less damage to the pyrotechnic elements during the process. Another embodiment of the fastener is used in a novelty greeting card device for the enjoyment of the general public. A suggested embodiment of the novelty fastener is combined with pyrotechnic material to form a novelty sparkler device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Yuval Haim Dagan
  • Patent number: 7451701
    Abstract: A system for the securing of road flares in order to maintain continuous burning of the flares and not allow them to roll away. The system includes first and second holding means aligned either in the same plane, or offset from each other. The first holding means holds a flare by a first end of the flare. The second holding means is connected to the first holding means in either the same plane or else at a distance from the first holding means. The second holding means holds a second flare by the second end of the flare. Once the first flare has burned the entire length of the flare, it ignites the second end of the second flare so that the second flare is ignited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Inventor: Thomas L. Garner
  • Patent number: 7410135
    Abstract: By providing a hand holdable, reusable, holding system which enables users to insert any small diameter, shaft supporting pyrotechnic device, such as a sparkler, into an aperture and be assured that the shaft of the pyrotechnic device is securely locked to the holding system for protecting the individual from harm, an easily constructed, easily used holding system is attained which is capable of enabling any elongated, small diameter wire or shaft to be quickly inserted into the holding system and securely lockingly engaged therewith. In this way, the pyrotechnic material which is adhered to the upper portion of the elongated shaft or wire is easily held by the user in a safe and effective manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Inventors: Mark Dibble, Robert Budnik, Eric Wider
  • Publication number: 20080006168
    Abstract: A firework launching-stand includes a mainframe comprised of a bottom for the stand to be put on the surface of an object, and a flaring surface extending from the bottom for multiple firework tubes to be secured and rest thereon so that when all the firework tubes are launched into the skies at a certain inclination, they show off different patterns of flame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2007
    Publication date: January 10, 2008
    Inventor: Chao-Chen Huang
  • Publication number: 20080000377
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a system for simulating an actual explosion of an explosive device includes one or more firing devices and a control module. A firing device comprises a pyrotechnic device operable to direct a pyrotechnic explosion in a predetermined direction to simulate the actual explosion of the explosive device. The control module receives a trigger signal from a trigger device, which is operable to send the trigger signal in response to a trigger event. The control module detonates the firing devices in response to the trigger signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Publication date: January 3, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas Doyle, Diana P. Schaeffer
  • Patent number: 7314005
    Abstract: An ignition system for 1.4 g or consumer fireworks includes a base to which the fireworks are secured to prevent tipping thereof during shooting. The base is secured to the ground or other surface for stability. Preferably, the base is part of a container which encloses the fireworks in a pre-mounted fashion to protect the fireworks from the elements. Electrical matches or E-matches are used to ignite the fireworks and are controlled by an electrical control at a safe distance from the fireworks during the firing thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Pyro Master, L.L.C.
    Inventor: James G. Deye
  • Patent number: 7287474
    Abstract: A reusable pyrotechnics support device for securely holding consumer ground-based fireworks (for example, fountains, mortars, multiple aerials, and the like) in a vertical and upright position, using a sufficiently wide base that is resistant to tipping over. In certain configurations, the apparatus is a molded plastic element formed in a generally round shape with an outer annular section and a series of resilient flexible cantilever tines extending radially inward toward a central aperture serving as a primary insertion point for the pyrotechnics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Spitdog Resources, LLC
    Inventor: James Whitley
  • Publication number: 20070199469
    Abstract: An apparatus for production of pyrotechnic effects, having a plurality of pyrotechnic charges and initiation means which are accommodated in common casing bodies (22). According to the invention, the casing bodies (22) together with the pyrotechnic charges and initiation means are associated with a common mount (20), the mount having initiation conductors which lead to each initiation means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2007
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventor: Arthur D. Zahn
  • Patent number: 7261037
    Abstract: The pyrotechnic animal dispersal device includes an aerodynamic stabilizer for attachment to a pyrotechnic rocket cartridge and a connector sleeve for joining an explosive cartridge to the rocket cartridge. The connector sleeve has an annular disc disposed therein so that slow burning fuel from the rocket cartridge can pass through the disc and detonate the explosive cartridge when the rocket cartridge nears the end of its flight, thereby extending the range of the explosive cartridge. The cartridges are of the pyrotechnic variety launched from a handheld launcher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Inventor: J. Barthell Joseph, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7237488
    Abstract: A bottle rocket launcher comprises a long hollow tube barrel having an tube-axial sealing valve that has a rotary cylindrical or spherical valve member where the valve is attached at the breech end of the launcher barrel. The rocket launcher can be angled up to a near vertical position with support legs. In use, a bottle rocket can be partially inserted into the valve passageway that is held open. The flammable rocket fuse is lit and the bottle rocket is dynamically inserted by hand contact with the rocket stick into the barrel inside chamber body to a position that is beyond the valve member. The valve is rotated into a valve-closed position while the rocket fuse is burning. When the bottle rocket powder is ignited by the burning fuse, the burning exhaust gases thrusts the bottle rocket along the inside of the barrel tube and propels it into the sky in the direction that the launcher barrel is pointed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventors: Cameron Michael Duescher, Kent Wayne Duescher
  • Patent number: 7096790
    Abstract: A fireworks stand for elevating fixed-position fireworks, especially cone type fountains, having a body with an inner cavity for storing the fireworks and an upper platform for supporting the fireworks during discharge. The platform is nested into an upper end of the body and receives an upper keeper that is sized and shaped to fit inside of the nested platform in order to secure the fireworks. The cavity has a lower keeper and base structure that is removed to provide access to a plurality of inserts, which house the fireworks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Shiu Fung Fireworks Co. LTD
    Inventor: Ng Wing Wah
  • Patent number: 7086530
    Abstract: A holder for fireworks includes a body having first and second portions that are movable with respect to each other between clamped and unclamped positions. A retaining device is used to hold the portions in the clamped position against a firework. The holder may be collapsed to a flat configuration for storage and shipping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventors: James E. Price, Richard D. Spree
  • Patent number: 7083414
    Abstract: An explosion simulation device comprising an elongated body formed with a hollow chamber, the body being formed with end apertures at opposite ends thereof and a plurality of radially-directed side apertures along an axial length thereof, the end apertures and side apertures being in fluid communication with the hollow chamber, a pyrotechnic substance disposed in the hollow chamber, and a detonator disposed in the body for detonating the pyrotechnic substance, wherein the end apertures and side apertures are arranged with respect to one another such that forces of post-combustion gases, formed as a product of detonation of the pyrotechnic substance and which are vented through the end apertures and side apertures, are directed in directions that tend to cancel movement of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventor: Arie Sansolo
  • Patent number: 7007584
    Abstract: Based on pyrotechnic launch tubes (1) with a cylindrical body which houses in their interior both the pyrotechnic objects or materials (3) and the lifting powder (5), the system consists in providing each cylinder (1), on its lower base, with a series of tabs (6), determining a radially deformable neck, wherein said tabs (6) are finished in barbs (7) for engagement by pressure in a securing piece (11–11?), fastenable to the frame of the tubes or incorporated by way of a single piece in the actual frame, provided with an external and rigid neck with a gradation (14) for the engagement of the barbs (7) and provided with an axial and cylindrical core (10) which, perforating the bottom of the cylinder (1), is of a size to house in its interior the igniter (12) with its corresponding cable (13), which is thereby perfectly protected from possible environmental humidity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Pirotecnia Caballer, S.A.
    Inventor: Vicente Caballer Barat
  • Patent number: 6851371
    Abstract: A launching device for launching multiple firework shells skyward th a base having foldable wings hinged to a central body. The foldable wings fold downward and reduce the size of the base for the purpose of providing a low-profile profile shipping configuration. The base has a connector, such as an engagement cylinder, that matingly engages an elongated or tubular member that is sized and shaped to receive aerial fireworks. The engagement cylinder provides either a male or female engagement with the tubular member. An adapter is provided to adjust the diameter of the connector to fit tubes of different diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Shiu Fung Fireworks, Inc.
    Inventor: Ng Wing Wah
  • Patent number: 6799516
    Abstract: A reusable aluminum fire cup having a dome-shaped cap and including an ordinary fire cracker placed in a copper tube, then placed in a container with small amount of water, and then ignited, the fire cracker's blast and the pressure from the water will propel the fire cup high into the air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Inventors: Joseph Patrick Lucero, Sr., Kelly Jane Lucero, Joseph Patrick Lucero, Jr., Brandon Scott Lucero
  • Patent number: 6672217
    Abstract: A holding device for a pyrotechnic, incendiary device. More particularly, a holding device for a thermite or thermate based destructive device or enhanced incendiary grenade. The device assembly allows for firm attachment of pyrotechnic, incendiary devices, particularly enhanced incendiary grenades, to targets having various surface shapes and orientations, or formed of various materials. The holding device is inexpensive and easily reproducible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Gene V. Tracy, Eugene Song
  • Publication number: 20030230211
    Abstract: A single break shell has an elongated body provided with a convexly rounded upper end, a convexly rounded bottom end, and a midportion disposed between the two rounded ends. In a preferred embodiment, the shell is ellipsoidal in shape with the opposite ends having radius of curvature that are identical to one another. Other embodiments include variations on the basic elongated, rounded configuration. The shell is useful in both a self-propelled aerial pyrotechnic device in which the engine travels along with the shell, and an explosive lift charge type device in which the lift charge propels only the shell out of the launch tube after detaching from the lift charge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventor: Gregory P. Shelton
  • Patent number: 6606950
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for positioning a shaped charge for destroying land mines and unexploded ordnance utilizes one or more pins secured to a shaped charge. In one embodiment, an outer body made of molded rubber has one or more flanges with holes for receiving the pins. By manipulating the legs of the pins, the shaped charge is positioned in proximity to the “target.” The tips of the pins may be forced into the surface surrounding the target, or by bending the legs of the pins to rest on the surrounding surface. A detonator, such as a blasting cap, may be secured to the shaped charge through an opening in the outer body, or through a clip attached to the shaped charge. The opening in the outer body is deformabale to accommodate various diameter detonators. The clip has a flange that the detonator is seated against to at ensure proper placement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Inventor: Charles Ray Putman
  • Patent number: 6561102
    Abstract: A floatable firework device includes a hollow base for fitting an explosive therein, a waterproof fuse, and a tubular buoyancy member sleeved fixedly around an upper portion of the base. The base has a center of gravity at a lower end portion thereof. As such, the firework device can float on a water surface, with a flame-spraying upper end slit in the base being disposed above the water surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Inventor: Chieh-Yih Wang
  • Patent number: 5996502
    Abstract: An aerodynamically stable, kinematic flare having an enhanced plume signature is disclosed. The flare includes a housing with a flare illuminant disposed within the housing. A primary nozzle is configured in the aft wall of the housing. Four secondary nozzles are configured in the aft end of the side wall of the housing and are positioned aft of the center of gravity of the flare. At least two of the secondary nozzles comprise off-center nozzles having a longitudinal axis which does not extend through the longitudinal axis of the flare. A shroud is attached to the housing and deploys to an extended position upon combustion of the illuminant. The shroud is configured with holes which correspond in size and position to each of the secondary nozzles when the shroud is in its extended position. The primary and secondary nozzles are sized and positioned to spin stabilize the flare during combustion of the illuminant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Cordant Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Endicott, Jr., Ross W. Guymon, Ralph S. Tappan, II
  • Patent number: 5750915
    Abstract: A launch vehicle pedestal and an umbilical mast in which the pedestal includes a launch mount pedestal and four pedestal adapters. The launch mount pedestal includes a launch vehicle support base having an exhaust opening. Four legs extend downwardly from the support base and pedestal connecting means are secured to lower ends of each of the legs. The four pedestal adapters serve to secure the legs to existing launch vehicle support posts, the pedestal adapters each having adapter connecting means complementarily engageable with the pedestal connecting means. The umbilical mast comprises a plurality of round cylindrical segments connected by means of connectors at their ends. The connectors comprise radially extending flanges with circumferential holes in them. The mast further includes an access door and at least one opening in at least one of the segments for electrical cables and an air conditioning duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Ernest R. Bedegrew, Robert J. MacDonald, Louis E. Rustenburg, Russell E. Godfrey, Daniel H. Hada, Raymond L. Fredrickson, Larry V. Digdigan, David A. Niemann, Russell K. Chun
  • Patent number: 5654522
    Abstract: An aerodynamically stable, kinematic flare having an enhanced plume signature is disclosed. The flare includes a housing with a flare illuminant disposed within the housing. A primary nozzle is configured in the aft wall of the housing. Four secondary nozzles are configured in the aft end of the side wall of the housing and are positioned aft of the center of gravity of the flare. At least two of the secondary nozzles comprise off-center nozzles having a longitudinal axis which does not extend through the longitudinal axis of the flare. A shroud is attached to the housing and deploys to an extended position upon combustion of the illuminant. The shroud is configured with holes which correspond in size and position to each of the secondary nozzles when the shroud is in its extended position. The primary and secondary nozzles are sized and positioned to spin stabilize the flare during combustion of the illuminant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Assignee: Thiokol Corporation
    Inventors: David W. Endicott, Jr., Ross W. Guymon, Ralph S. Tappan, II
  • Patent number: 5567907
    Abstract: A fireworks support apparatus broadly includes a fireworks support assembly and a positioning assembly. The support assembly includes a launching member, support structure, and at least one elastomeric band. The launching member, configured for receiving at least one elongated pyrotechnic device, presents a closed lower end and an open upper end, and includes a retaining collar, retaining nut, and a friction band. The support structure presents a support face, having positioning slots for positioning the elastomeric bands, and an opening defined therein for receiving the open upper end of the launching member. The support structure is secured to the launching member by receiving the open upper end of the launching member through the opening, the support structure being retained between the retaining collar and retaining nut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventor: Thomas C. Westfall
  • Patent number: 5526751
    Abstract: A flare including a body, an ignitable projectile in the body, an igniter for initiating ignition of the ignitable projectile and initiating propulsion of the projectile out one end of the body, a cap removably coupled to the other end of the body and an ignition member in the body and the cap which can be pulled to ignite the igniter composition. The flare also includes a safety shield at least partially receiving the body and the cap and being releasably retained against substantial axial movement relative to the body in a retracted position to inhibit removal of the cap from the body and being responsive to a force to move relative to the body and cap to an extended position. Confronting surfaces of the shield and cap are configured to provide a passage for water to escape from a region between the shield and the body. The end of the shield adjacent the body is configured to provide a plurality of resilient fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1996
    Assignee: Skyblazer, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Spivey, William F. Brice, William J. Dee
  • Patent number: 4771695
    Abstract: A holder for fireworks comprising a pair of rigid uprights of sheet material and a number of rigid plates or shelves of sheet material extending between the uprights. Slots in the respective components provide for assembly into a self-supporting fireworks holder by the relative telescoping of the uprights through the slots. Legs of sheet construction are also telescoped through slots in the upright and interlock with slits in the baseplate to rigidify the structure. Holes in some of the plates hold the fireworks in position for firing. The baseplate is substantially free of holes to serve as a shield to prevent inadvertent ignition of materials proximal to the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1988
    Inventor: Richard C. Simpson
  • Patent number: 4724768
    Abstract: A line throwing rocket arrangement is disclosed which is normally stored in a generally rectangular case. The set includes at least one rocket provided with a guide sleeve generally integral with the body of the rocket but disposed exteriorly thereof. During the launching, the sleeve slides over a straight guide rod. The storage case is provided with suitable means for securement of the guide rod to the box at different angles so that different ranges can be covered by the rocket in rescue or the like operations can be covered. The advance in the art is primarily in the simplified arrangement which facilitates the operation and reduces the manufacturing costs of the set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1988
    Inventors: Wilfred R. Robinson, Robert E. Lichtenberger
  • Patent number: 4721042
    Abstract: A missile includes an annular flare element 18 which is housed between the outer skin of the missile and the propulsion nozzle 14. The flare element allows the propulsion efflux to be as fully expanded as possible while still providing a large area of flare.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1988
    Assignee: British Aerospace PLC
    Inventor: Richard P. Moate
  • Patent number: 4697518
    Abstract: A pyrotechnic device having a maximum explosive effect with a minimum quantity of explosive composition. The device is in the form of a polyurethane plastic foam body molded about a firecracker tube. The firecracker tube contains a small explosive composition charge therein and into which a fuse extends. The tube is sealed at each end by packing means. A polyurethane sealant coating is provided over the tube to seal any openings in the tube and any openings in any interface between the tube, the packing means and the fuse. The sealant serves as a good engaging surface to which the body portion of plastic foam will adhere when molded. When completed, the plastic foam body has a predetermined shape, such as cylindrical, generally spherical, or multifaceted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1987
    Assignee: Phantom Firework Manufacturing Company Limited
    Inventors: Nam S. Lau, Yick J. Lau