Firecracker Patents (Class 102/361)
  • Patent number: 11885602
    Abstract: Disclosed is a kind of combination fireworks, in which a plurality of paper tubes form a tube row, and the plurality of tube rows are stacked and assembled for forming, wherein each tube row is provided with a bottom cardboard, two sides of the bottom cardboard are correspondingly provided with notch positioning holes, and the bottom cardboard beside the notch positioning holes forms the protruding cardboard beside the holes; the cardboard beside the holes is folded and stuck on both sides of the paper tube, and both ends of the paper tube are respectively embedded in corresponding notch positioning holes. The structure of spaced tube rows is adopted, so that the radial size error of the tube body of the paper tube is not accumulated in the tube rows, thus allowing the tube body to accurately reach a predetermined work position, and improving the accuracy and reliability of subsequent processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Inventor: Li Xinghua
  • Patent number: 11391554
    Abstract: A firecracker package includes a packaging box body, a packaging component, and a buffering material. The packaging component is provided in the packaging box body and is used for firecracker packaging, and the buffering material is provided between the packaging box body and the packaging component and is used for absorbing the impact and preventing explosion. The firecrackers have a good impact absorption and explosion-proof effect during transportation or consumption, which avoids the explosion caused by extrusion, and improves the safety performance. Moreover, the sealing effect is promoted, the waterproof and moisture resistance performance is stronger, the expiry date is prolonged, and the environmental pollution is avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Inventor: Jianshan Du
  • Patent number: 10393483
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a combined fireworks with launching pits and multi-channel fireproof structures comprising a body, several tubular cavities are uniformly arranged on the body with the upper ports thereof are open and the lower ports thereof are closed, inner cylinders of fireworks and propellants are arranged inside the tubular cavity, the bottom of each tubular cavity is provided with annular grooves and launching pits. The bottom surface of the body is provided with several fireproof bosses, the position of each fireproof boss corresponds to each tubular cavity in the body respectively, and recessed countersinks are arranged on the fireproof bosses, the priming holes are arranged within the recessed countersinks, one end opening of the priming hole is located on the bottom surface of the launching pit, and the other end opening of the priming hole is located in the recessed countersinks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Inventor: Shanhe Lu
  • Patent number: 9400159
    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: August 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2016
    Assignee: MagicFire, Inc.
    Inventors: George Bossarte, Paul R. McKinley
  • Patent number: 9388589
    Abstract: A work platform system for implementation in relation to a structure, as well as subsystems and components thereof and methods of implementation and use relating thereto, are disclosed herein. In at least one embodiment, the work platform system includes a first pair of flexible elements and a second pair of flexible elements, where a respective first end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a first support component and a respective second end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a second support component. The work platform system can further include a plurality of panel structures supported upon the flexible elements, a suspension component, and a clamp structure coupled to at least one of the first pair of flexible elements and the second pair of flexible elements. The work platform system can include one or more support extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Safway Services, LLC
    Inventors: Mathieu Grumberg, Roy Scrafford, Frederick W. Meade
  • 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: 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.
  • Publication number: 20130125773
    Abstract: A multiple output and effect grenade is provided, in which an exothermic delay column is utilized to initiate a series of primers via the application of heat to the strike faces thereof, thereby providing a reliable and relatively safe grenade to ship and store. In particular, a multiple output and effect grenade comprised of an exothermic delay column disposed within a central cavity, operable to initiate a series of primers disposed in primer cavities located within the main body of the grenade. The primer cavities may be arranged in a symmetrical or asymmetrical configuration, so as to produce a firing signature resembling an automatic weapon or random gunfire, respectively. In addition, effect charges, such as illuminants, sound agents, chemical irritants, etc., may be disposed within the primer cavities, as desired by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2013
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Michael BRUNN
  • Patent number: 8365665
    Abstract: A fireworks igniter system and method for safely igniting fuse-type fireworks including a handheld igniter module and a remote control module. An igniter head at the proximal end of the igniter module includes a heater element and fuse clamp slide which receives and biasingly molds the fuse against the heater element. A microprocessor in the igniter module includes an infrared receiver and an igniter module actuator. The remote control module includes an infrared emitter and a remote control module actuator, the infrared emitter emitting a coded IR signal in response to activation of the actuator. The IR signal is sensed by the infrared receiver to activate the igniter module actuator and deliver electric current to the heater element sufficient to ignite the fuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventors: Andrew Risner, Lisa M. Fitzgerald
  • Patent number: 8161883
    Abstract: A safer flash-bang grenade that yields the state of the art sound intensity, plus a brighter, more intense flash of the order of 13.5 million candela—which effect is due to a combination of a particularly efficacious pyrotechnic formulation and a particular reaction chamber design that momentarily retains or holds-back the reaction escape until the desired intensity is reached. The particular pyrotechnic formulation is based upon a strontium nitrate oxidizer in conjunction with an aluminum powder metallic fuel and a sulfur non-metallic fuel. The particular reaction chamber design includes a relatively rigid, non-fragmenting charge holder, with a slip-fit thin aluminum sleeve internal thereof and a shrink fit or other sealed sleeve external thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Nicole D. Harasts, William Chung-Leung Chow, Mark Motyka, Steve Kotefski, Lidija Kotevska
  • Patent number: 8118157
    Abstract: A firework launching platform apparatus includes a panel that has a top side, a bottom side and a peripheral edge. The panel has a plurality of apertures therein extending into the top side and outwardly of the bottom side. The apertures receive a body of a firework to support the firework in an upright manner. The apertures include primary apertures and secondary apertures. Each of the primary apertures is positioned adjacent to the peripheral edge of the panel. A plurality of channels is positioned in the bottom side of the panel. The channels each extend through the peripheral edge and into one of the primary apertures. Each of the primary apertures is linked by at least one of the channels to the peripheral edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Attilio M. Piccolin
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7798066
    Abstract: One aspect of the invention provides a firing apparatus that provides an arcuate visual effect. The firing apparatus includes a motor, an enclosure housing the motor and an arm connected to a shaft of the motor for moving a pyrotechnic device such as a gerb. Another aspect of the invention provides a pyrotechnic system that includes a firing apparatus including a reciprocal motor, a firing arm having a first end connected to a shaft of the reciprocal motor and a second end adapted to emit an arcuate pyrotechnic effect, a control unit in communication with the firing apparatus for controlling operation of the reciprocal motor and an ignition unit in communication with the firing apparatus for initiating the pyrotechnic effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Strictly FX
    Inventors: Reid Nofsinger, Mark J. Grega
  • 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: 7509910
    Abstract: One aspect of the invention provides a firing apparatus that provides an arcuate visual effect. The firing apparatus includes a motor, an enclosure housing the motor and an arm connected to a shaft of the motor for moving a pyrotechnic device such as a gerb. Another aspect of the invention provides a pyrotechnic system that includes a firing apparatus including a reciprocal motor, a firing arm having a first end connected to a shaft of the reciprocal motor and a second end adapted to emit an arcuate pyrotechnic effect, a control unit in communication with the firing apparatus for controlling operation of the reciprocal motor and an ignition unit in communication with the firing apparatus for initiating the pyrotechnic effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Strictly FX
    Inventors: Reid Nofsinger, Mark J. Grega
  • Patent number: 7493859
    Abstract: A method for achieving zero, or near zero, latency timed pyrotechnic events by utilizing distributed processing is presented. A list of timed events may be used to synchronize a pyrotechnic firing sequence with music or other external events. This list is distributed over a series of embedded microprocessors. Each microprocessor is then synchronized to a master controller clock, and enabled such that each processor may then fire independently as required by the master list. This distributed process removes the split-second timing requirement from the main controller enabling the achievement of zero latency and providing significantly more timing events to be processed simultaneously while alleviating problems such as wireless radio interference delays. Each module is capable of forwarding information to other modules, which may be a position that prevents wireless communication directly with the master controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Inventor: David Wayne Russell
  • Publication number: 20080115685
    Abstract: Decorative garland string firework devices and methods for making same are provided. A garland string firework device can comprise an internal firework device and an outer decorative garland disposed around the internal firework device. The internal firework device can be an elongated firework string comprising combustible material. The outer garland can be an exterior firework generally disposed around at least a portion of the elongated firework string. The exterior firework can comprise combustible material. The exterior firework can have an elongated configuration and a compressed configuration. In the elongated configuration, the exterior firework can have a first length, and in the compressed configuration, the exterior firework can have a second length. The outer garland can comprise multiple component sheets attached at multiple locations to form a decorative appearance. Compression of the outer garland enables packaging and storage without damaging the garland string firework device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2007
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Inventor: RICHARD WONG
  • Patent number: 7278355
    Abstract: A multiple stage pyrotechnic shell apparatus is disclosed. The invention has enhanced efficiency to increase lift and reduce the risk of one or more of the charges from exploding near the ground. The enhanced efficiency is obtained through the novel use of shaped breaks that conform to the shape of the inner surface of the shell's launch tube, and in particular through the use of cylindrically shaped breaks in round launch tubes. In addition, the present invention further enhances efficiency by configuring the breaks such that all the breaks weigh the same or the upper breaks weigh more than the lower breaks in the launch tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: American Promotional Events, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Yu
  • Patent number: 7140301
    Abstract: A temporary airborne image is formed by the steps of arranging a plurality of projectiles in each of one or more barrel assemblies wherein the projectiles include image forming matter; firing a predetermined number of the plurality of projectiles from selected barrel assemblies; and deploying the image forming matter to form a temporary airborne image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Metal Storm Limited
    Inventor: James Michael O'Dwyer
  • Patent number: 6899033
    Abstract: A firecracker packaging is provided which enables both carrying a single ignition detonation of a large number of firecrackers in an attractive package resembling a giant firecracker. At least one and preferably a plurality of spiral-wound strings of firecrackers having interconnected fuses are stacked together in a substantially cylindrical stack, covered by wrapping, and a handle extends from one end of the wrapping. The handle is preferably a length of line. Binding is positioned between the strings and the wrapping to retain the cylindrical configuration of the strings. Connecting fuses between adjacent strings permit ignition of the woven individual firecracker fuses in one string to lead to ignition of the woven individual firecracker fuses of the adjacent string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Jake's Fireworks, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael S. Marietta
  • Patent number: 6840177
    Abstract: A fireworks device, including a number of light effect devices as a replacement for traditional pyrotechnic stars. Each light effect device includes electrical/electronic light sources, preferably high-intensity light-emitting diodes, an energy-storage device and a control device. The light effect device for use in such a fireworks device can be used together with a fireworks system, a fireworks rocket and a ground firework in which the firework device is included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Jakob Hatteland Kjemi AS
    Inventor: Jakob Hatteland
  • Publication number: 20040211334
    Abstract: A firecracker packaging is provided which enables both carrying a single ignition detonation of a large number of firecrackers in an attractive package resembling a giant firecracker. At least one and preferably a plurality of spiral-wound strings of firecrackers having interconnected fuses are stacked together in a substantially cylindrical stack, covered by wrapping, and a handle extends from one end of the wrapping. The handle is preferably a length of line. Binding is positioned between the strings and the wrapping to retain the cylindrical configuration of the strings. Connecting fuses between adjacent strings permit ignition of the woven individual firecracker fuses in one string to lead to ignition of the woven individual firecracker fuses of the adjacent string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Michael S. Marietta
  • 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: 6779459
    Abstract: Pyrotechnic fireworks launch apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a base to which is affixed a male-configured launching cylinder adapted to accept thereover, in combination, an internally cylindrical, female-configured projectile, wherein the projectile has a proximal and a distal end thereof. The projectile houses a fused pyrotechnic display charge proximate its distal end and also houses a fused launching charge encased therein and partitioned from the display charge. On insertion of the launching cylinder into the proximal end of the projectile, thereby mounting the projectile upon the launching cylinder, the encased launching charge and the launching cylinder are in abutting relationship. Upon ignition of the fused launch charge, the projectile is launched vertically from the launching cylinder. The external configuration of the projectile may have any number of shapes. In a preferred configuration, it is shaped as a rocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Hunter Pacific Limited
    Inventor: John A. Werner
  • Publication number: 20040045471
    Abstract: The Fire Cup takes an ordinary fire cracker and really allows you to see the blast. The Fire Cup is safe enough for even your children to use under adult supervision. The Fire Cup and some basic fire crackers is all you will need to but, for you and your family to enjoy hours of entertainment. The Fire Cup is so well made it can be used over and over again. So pick one up today and experience the blast of the one and the only “FIRE CUP”.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Joseph Patrick Lucero, Kelly Jane Lucero, Joseph Patrick Lucero, Brandon Scott Lucero
  • Patent number: 6530327
    Abstract: A pyrotechnic device and method for making the same is disclosed which includes a pyrotechnic composition comprising a fuel, an oxidizing agent, and at least one of a metal salt and metal powder; wherein the pyrotechnic composition further comprises a cylinder with an internal surface area positioned within an outer cylindrical surface area; and, wherein prime is proximately disposed at least at one end of the internal surface area of said cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: DMD Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Michael A. Hiskey, Darren L. Naud
  • Patent number: 6508178
    Abstract: The product includes a self-propelled aerial pyrotechnic device and an upright launch tube for the device. The device is closely confined within the launch tube so as to be maintained in an essentially truly vertical orientation in preparation for launch. The device itself comprises a body containing pyrotechnic display material and an engine that serves to propel the body when ignited. A stabilizing base, preferably integrally molded from synthetic resinous material, is attached to the lower end of the body and is in the nature of a framework having a plurality of symmetrically disposed, long legs interconnected at various locations by strut structure. The engine is received within a socket at the upper end of the stabilizing base and is adhered to interior surfaces of the legs to provide a secure connection between the body and the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventor: Gregory P. Shelton
  • Patent number: 6457415
    Abstract: A launching device for launching multiple aerial fireworks in succession from the launching device has a tubular member having a wall defining an internal perimeter sized and shaped to receive conventional aerial fireworks shells. A unitary base is mountable to the tubular member to thereby support the tubular member in an upright use position on a support surface. The base includes a lower portion of appropriate size and shape to support the tubular member in a stable upright position; and a protrusion extends from the lower portion. The protrusion has an outer perimeter corresponding in size and shape to the inner perimeter of the tubular member to thereby permit snug insertion of the protrusion into the tubular member to secure it to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: American Promotional Events, Inc.
    Inventor: Yu Peter Sung Yan
  • Patent number: 6412418
    Abstract: The product includes an upright launch tube adapted to be self-supporting on a horizontal surface and a self-propelled aerial pyrotechnic device adapted to be received within a fairly closely confined relationship within the tube in preparation for launch. In its preferred form, the tube is slightly taller than the aerial device so that the aerial device is fully received within and surrounded by the side wall of the tube in the launch mode, except for a long fuse leading to the engine of the device and hanging out over the open upper edge of the tube. Except for a tapered nose cone, the device is substantially the same cross-sectional width along its entire length, including the lower regions thereof which are occupied by a plurality of stabilizing legs that support the device in an upright condition within the tube and balance the device during flight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Inventor: Gregory P. Shelton
  • 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: 6324981
    Abstract: The invention concerns a pyrotechnic projectile comprising a body containing a bursting charge (4) and a combustible charge (5) which is ignited and dispersed by the bursting charge (4), characterized in that the combustible charge (5) is formed by a metallic powder combustible with oxygen, arranged in the busting charge (4) according to a pattern corresponding of the flare pattern to be obtained in the sky. The metallic powder can be titanium, aluminum or magnesium powder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Etienne Lacroix Tous Artifices S.A.
    Inventors: Jean Pierre Siegler, Badava Camara
  • Patent number: 6289815
    Abstract: A device for dispersing birds in airport areas, including a self-propelled projectile with a delayed firing element (15, 18, 27, 29) and a sound-effect charge (9) designed to scare birds away and housed in said projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Etienne Lacroix Tous Artifices S.A.
    Inventors: Raymond Tougeron, Daniel Casenave
  • Patent number: 6286429
    Abstract: A longitudinal launcher tube made substantially of polyurethane resin or plastic having a rear end closed by a transverse rear wall and an open front end. The invention allows a projectile to be housed in the tube and adapted to slide longitudinally inside it towards the front, to be expelled from it via the front end tube, means for defining with the tube and projectile a rear gas expansion chamber immediately to the rear of the projectile, and an impulse cartridge adapted on command to develop gas pressure in the rear chamber to cause the expulsion of the projectile via the front end of the tube. The apparatus is a pyrotechnic device for rigidly supporting fireworks such as mortar-type, rocket-type, projectile-type, and other pyrotechnic devices so that the launcher device is reusable, whereby the launcher substantially retains its integrity after each launch to minimize harm caused to persons and the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventors: John Marietta, Tom Crablen
  • Patent number: 6283033
    Abstract: A multiple effect pyrotechnic shell (20), having a lift chamber (22), primary break (24), secondary break (26), and a tertiary break (28) has a desired weight distribution to inhibit tumbling. The secondary break weight is less than the primary break weight, and the tertiary break weight is less than both the primary and secondary break weights. Thus, the center of gravity of the shell (20) is positioned below a midpoint of the shell height. A first timing fuse (46) extends from a lift charge (30) into a primary break charge (50A) of the primary break (24), and a primary internal timing fuse (64) extends from the primary break (24) to the secondary break (26). Further, a secondary internal timing fuse (70) extends from the secondary break (26) to the tertiary break (28). Fuse fragments (52) are preferably disbursed within the break hulls (48) to provide filler and add an additional effect to each break (24-28).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Jake's Fireworks
    Inventors: Francis Wu, Michael Marietta
  • Patent number: 6244185
    Abstract: A skyrocket is provided which provides a first fireworks effect prior to launch as well as a second effect after launching. The skyrocket includes a body which houses or is coupled to a rocket motor, a first effect and a second effect. A transparent or translucent nose cone is placed on the top end of the body which provides both the ability to view one of the effects placed therein but also maintains the aerodynamic properties of the skyrocket. The first effect may be a strobing effecting which during burning provides a pulsating intensity of light visible through the nose cone prior to lift-off of the skyrocket, and the second effect may be a bursting charge which explodes after the rocket is in flight. An ignition fuse leads to the first effect and a second fuse leads to the rocket motor so that by lighting the first fuse, no further fuses need be lit and a delay is provided before the rocket motor ignites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: Po Sing Fireworks Ltd.
    Inventor: Dennis K. Yip
  • Patent number: 6155173
    Abstract: A retainer for model rocket motors having a flange (10) with a concavity (18). Several supports (12) extend perpendicular from the flange (10) and extend to the rocket frame (20). Mounts (14), parallel to the flange (10), abut each of the supports (12). Each mount (14) contains a longitudinal through-hole (16) as a means for attachment to the rocket frame (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Michael F. Bellino
  • Patent number: 5979329
    Abstract: A launcher for launching aerial firework shells into the air includes a base and an upright tubular member. The tubular member is constructed of a plastic that resists damage from the explosive force of the fireworks and allows substantial reuse of the launcher for multiple shells. The tubular member is seated in an indentation in the base that snugly receives the sides of the tubular member. The tubular member is preferably secured to the base by stainless steel staples to allow for use of the launcher in a damp environment and over multiple years.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: WINCO Fireworks, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Collar
  • Patent number: 5979328
    Abstract: An apparatus for the deployment of a visible plume to alert other motorists that a proximate motor vehicle has been involved in a collision is described as having a tube which is open at one end disposed at the top and closed at a distal end. The distal end houses an activation device that is used to detonate an explosive charge in response to the detection of an output signal. The output signal is generated by a sensor subsequent to the motor vehicle experiencing an impact of sufficient magnitude. Both the sensor and the output signal are compatible with current technologies used to detect impacts which result in the deployment of air bags, and accordingly the device may rely upon these systems as may already be installed in the motor vehicle. The explosive charge expels a signaling media above the motor vehicle in a plume above the motor vehicle to visually alert other motorists that a collision has occurred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Harry Rudolph Rodrigues
  • Patent number: 5917142
    Abstract: A fusee cap includes a fusee cap body having a scratch surface for frictional engagement with the head of a fusee to cause fusee ignition and a spark deflector shield projecting from the fusee cap body to deflect sparks produced during ignition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Inventor: Calvin B. Chang
  • Patent number: 5841061
    Abstract: An aerial fireworks display device includes a plastic bottle for holding a quantity of combustible liquid, such as diesel fuel, and a one piece plastic lid structure which is threadable onto the bottle and has an open-topped depending well portion in which a quantity of flash powder may be placed. After the flash powder has been placed in the lid well portion a fuse-containing plug structure is snap-fitted into the top end of the lid well. The diesel fuel is poured into the bottle and the lid is screwed onto the bottle so that the flash powder-containing well extends into the bottle interior, and a portion of the fuse extends outwardly through the upper end of the plug structure. The assembled device may then be inverted and placed in a mortar tube for launching.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventors: Robert L. Westfall, Robert D. McMurray
  • Patent number: 5739462
    Abstract: A pyrotechnic device includes a launcher for launching and igniting a plurality of pyrotechnic stars for creating an aerial fireworks display. The launcher comprises a launching tube having an igniter that ignites the pyrotechnic stars as they are being expelled from the launching tube under the force of pressurized air. The igniter may comprise a section of the launching tube having a locally reduced diameter so that the pyrotechnic star frictionally engages it during launch, causing a striker composition on the interior of the launching tube to ignite a prime composition on the exterior surface of the pyrotechnic star. Alternatively, the igniter may comprise a flame within the launching tube to ignite the prime composition on the star. Various feeding mechanisms are provided to rapidly feed a large number of pyrotechnic stars for launching from the launching tube. The launcher utilizes pressurized air to launch the pyrotechnic stars and, thus, minimizes adverse environmental impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: The Walt Disney Company
    Inventors: Kyle W. Poor, John W. Sogge
  • Patent number: 5691500
    Abstract: A remotely-actuated fireworks launcher apparatus includes a housing assembly, a signal receiver housed within the housing assembly, an ignition servo electrically connected to the signal receiver and housed with the housing assembly, and a servo-actuated ignition switch operated by the ignition servo. The servo-actuated ignition switch is in an ignition circuit which also includes an electric igniter assembly, and a power supply. A fireworks receiver assembly is attached to the electric igniter assembly. The fireworks receiver assembly receives a fireworks device that is ignited by the electric igniter assembly. A manually operated ignition signal transmitter is actuated to transmit signals for activation of the signal receiver. The servo-actuated ignition switch includes a first switching element operated by the ignition servo and a second switching element selectively connected to or disconnected from the first switching element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Inventor: Massimiliano Mancini
  • Patent number: 5627338
    Abstract: A system and method for launching projectiles, such as fireworks projectiles, which explode in the air into a pyrotechnic display. The projectile includes a shell constructed from a binding agent and an explosive additive which explodes the shell into small particles. The explosive additive, which may be nitrocellulose, causes the exploded particles to be rapidly burned and consumed to form lightweight, inert flakes that fall harmlessly to the ground. The projectile is aimed and launched by a launcher to rapidly expel the projectile from a launching tube. Once in the air at a predetermined location in the sky, a fuse inside the projectile operates to detonate the projectile into its intended pyrotechnic display. The fuse is extremely accurate and enables detonation of the projectile at precise altitudes. An electronic control system controls launching and detonation of the projectiles in a precise and repeatable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Assignee: The Walt Disney Company
    Inventors: Kyle W. Poor, B. Thomas Craven, Bernard M. Durgin
  • Patent number: 5610364
    Abstract: A decoy flare is disclosed which includes illuminant disposed within a housing. A shroud is slidably attached to the housing for deployment from a retracted position to an extended position. A plug is attached to the aft end of the shroud and is configured with a radially beveled, nozzle-contacting surface. The plug is positioned and configured to sealingly engage the nozzle when the shroud is in the retracted position and to disengage the nozzle upon deployment of the shroud to the extended position. The plug is configured with a plume-contacting surface positioned at an angle to the path of the plume when the shroud is in the extended position for enhancing the cross-sectional area of the plume of the flare.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Assignee: Thiokol Corporation
    Inventors: David W. Endicott, Jr., Ross W. Guymon, James R. Kaminska
  • 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: 5526750
    Abstract: A system and method for launching projectiles, such as fireworks projectiles, which explode in the air into a pyrotechnic display. The projectile includes a shell constructed from a binding agent and an explosive additive which explodes the shell into small particles. The explosive additive, which may be nitrocellulose, causes the exploded particles to be rapidly burned and consumed to form lightweight, inert flakes that fall harmlessly to the ground. The projectile is aimed and launched by a launcher to rapidly expel the projectile from a launching tube. Once in the air at a predetermined location in the sky, a fuse inside the projectile operates to detonate the projectile into its intended pyrotechnic display. The fuse is extremely accurate and enables detonation of the projectile at precise altitudes. An electronic control system controls launching and detonation of the projectiles in a precise and repeatable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1996
    Assignee: The Walt Disney Company
    Inventors: Kyle W. Poor, B. Thomas Craven, Bernard M. Durgin
  • Patent number: 5429053
    Abstract: A pyrotechnic fan rack for mounting a plurality of individual fireworks pieces in a fanned array. The rack has an elongated body with an arcuate top profile and a flat base. Mounting ears are formed on the base to secure the rack to a surface. A series of sockets are formed through the top wall of the body along the horizontal length of the body. Each socket is formed in the body with its axis in preselected fixed angle relative to the axis of adjacent sockets. Tubes containing fireworks pieces are mounted in the sockets and extend out of the holes with their discharge ends in a desired angular relationship to adjacent firework pieces. A fuse groove seating an ignitable instantaneous fuse is formed along a horizontal length of the body connecting each of the sockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1995
    Inventor: Ronald R. Walker
  • Patent number: 5423265
    Abstract: A ribbon cartridge comprises generally a tubular casing, a base seat submerged in the bottom portion and a plurality of rolled stripped color ribbons and color patterns thereof filled in the casing. A detonator cup filled with a predetermined amount of gun powder is in the core of the base seat. The disclosure is characterized in providing combined effects of explosion and dispersing out of the color ribbons and color pattern when it is triggered in a toy gun, for creating greater intersting and joyous air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Inventor: Kun-Meng Wang
  • Patent number: 5400712
    Abstract: Infrared decoy flare having box fins which deploy upon firing of the flare from an aircraft to stabilize flare trajectory and flight path, and an aerodynamic nose to also enhance flight stability, as well as plume formation and subsequent decoying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Herbage, William H. Heinsohn
  • Patent number: RE38592
    Abstract: A multiple effect pyrotechnic shell (20), having a lift chamber (22), primary break (24), secondary break (26), and a tertiary break (28) has a desired weight distribution to inhibit tumbling. The secondary break weight is less than the primary break weight, and the tertiary break weight is less than both the primary and secondary break weights. Thus, the center of gravity of the shell (20) is positioned below a midpoint of the shell height. A first timing fuse (46) extends from a lift charge (30) into a primary break charge (50A) of the primary break (24), and a primary internal timing fuse (64) extends from the primary break (24) to the secondary break (26). Further, a secondary internal timing fuse (70) extends from the secondary break (26) to the tertiary break (28). Fuse fragments (52) are preferably disbursed within the break hulls (48) to provide filler and add an additional effect to each break (24-28).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Jake's Fireworks, Inc.
    Inventors: Francis Wu, Michael Marietta