Incendiary Patents (Class 102/364)
  • Publication number: 20110100245
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for incorporating nanophase elemental materials and metastable interstitial composite materials into projectiles, projectile fragments, ordnance casings, warheads and structural components. The projectile, fragments and casings include an elemental material capable of oxidizing. A coating material that is capable of preventing oxidation of the elemental material and an oxidizing agent may be present and be capable of reacting with the elemental material so that a self-propagating high temperature synthesis reaction from a stabilized solid material is yielded for the purpose of rendering terminal effects or thermal impact to a target at impact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2011
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: Newtec Services Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Williams, Michael Joseph Maston
  • Publication number: 20110100202
    Abstract: A system and method of detecting, processing, and selectively responding to radio frequency transmissions detected by at least one projectile deployed above a geographic area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventor: Jamie Bass
  • Publication number: 20110011295
    Abstract: A kinetic fireball incendiary munition is provided having an outer shell or bomb casing, one or more incendiary submunitions therein, and an igniter therefore. Each of the submunitions includes an incendiary portion, at least one rocket motor that propels the submunition inside of a target volume, and an oxidizer for the incendiary portion and rocket motor. The submunitions liberate sufficient heat to produce elevated temperatures inside of a target structure to thermalize the contents thereof without creating a substantial overpressure or explosive effect. The incendiary portion includes a solid propellant and, optionally, one or more energetic materials selected from the group consisting of phosphorous, boron, magnesium, aluminum, Fluorinertâ„¢-aluminum and BKNO3. The incendiary submunition may be in the shape of a ball or a circular disk with a rocket motor therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Applicant: EXQUADRUM, INC.
    Inventors: Robert L. Geisler, Kevin E. Mahaffy
  • Publication number: 20100307364
    Abstract: An arrow-type warhead (100,200,300,400,500,600,700) comprises an envelope (102,202), a filling (108), a hardened head section (104) to promote penetration of the target and a stabilizing mechanism (106,210,302,402,502,602) to stabilize the warhead in flight, hi some embodiments the filling (108) is pyrophoric and undergoes an exothermic reaction with the envelope upon impact. In other embodiments the filling is incendiary and undergoes reaction with the envelope upon impact in an oxygen rich-environment. In yet other embodiments, the filling is explosive. In all embodiments, the warhead may be equipped with a mini-rocket propulsion mechanism (802) for propelling the warhead to the target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Nahum Orlev, Amir Weitz
  • Patent number: 7845279
    Abstract: An armor module and an explosive material therefore, which explosive material is normally retained at a less sensitive position, and upon demand it is modified into a more sensitive position, where its initiation ability is upgraded and wherein the modification is carried out by heating the explosive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Rafael Armament Development Authority Ltd.
    Inventors: Benjamin Keren, Yael Cohen-Arazi, Samuel Friling, Erez Hanina
  • Publication number: 20100288151
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for incorporating nanophase elemental materials and metastable interstitial composite materials into projectiles, projectile fragments, ordnance casings, warheads and structural components. The projectile, fragments and casings include an elemental material capable of oxidizing. A coating material that is capable of preventing oxidation of the elemental material and an oxidizing agent may be present and be capable of reacting with the elemental material so that a self-propagating high temperature synthesis reaction from a stabilized solid material is yielded for the purpose of rendering terminal effects or thermal impact to a target at impact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Applicant: NEWTEC SERVICES GROUP
    Inventors: Keith Williams, Michael Joseph Maston
  • Publication number: 20100275803
    Abstract: A diversionary device has a housing having dimensions which are selected such that when the device is thrown or dropped, the device will come to rest only on one of its two primary sides. Each primary side has a circular dispersion port formed therethrough. The device includes means for blocking the first dispersion port if the device comes to rest on the first primary surface and for blocking the second dispersion port if the device comes to rest on the second primary surface. A firing mechanism is operable to discharge an ignitable composition out of a removable cartridge within the housing. The ignitable composition is discharged through the first dispersion port when the device rests on the second primary side and through the second dispersion port when the device rests on the first primary side. The composition then forms a cloud above the device and may be ignited.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2008
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Marcus L. Caldwell
  • Publication number: 20100263565
    Abstract: A method of making a projectile, and the resulting projectile, comprising providing a nose, providing a body, and incorporating within the body incendiary materials mixed into a metal binder, the metal binder comprising a metal or non-steel alloy of density greater than approximately 5 g/cm3 and a melting point of less than approximately 395 degrees C.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: George D. Hugus, IV, Edward W. Sheridan
  • Patent number: 7810421
    Abstract: A method of preventing initiation of an explosive device. The method comprises substantially encasing an explosive device with a conductive foam. The explosive device is configured to be initiated by an electromagnetic radiation signal, such as that emitted by a transmitter of a wireless door bell device. Deactivated explosive devices are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventors: Sarah B. Hiza, Daniel W. Doll, Jared K. Olson
  • Patent number: 7770521
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for incorporating nanophase elemental materials and metastable interstitial composite materials into projectiles, projectile fragments, ordnance casings, warheads and structural components. The projectile, fragments and casings include an elemental material capable of oxidizing. A coating material that is capable of preventing oxidation of the elemental material and an oxidizing agent may be present and be capable of reacting with the elemental material so that a self-propagating high temperature synthesis reaction from a stabilized solid material is yielded for the purpose of rendering terminal effects or thermal impact to a target at impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Newtec Services Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Williams, Michael Joseph Maston
  • Publication number: 20100093270
    Abstract: A system and method of detecting, processing, and selectively responding to radio frequency transmissions detected by at least one projectile deployed above a geographic area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: Jamie Bass
  • Publication number: 20100018428
    Abstract: A launchable unit including a warhead for generating non-nuclear electro magnetic pulses and a thermobaric warhead without dangerous fragments. The warheads in combination are arranged to operate in different modes dependent on target types and/or objectives with engagement controlled by the aiming and setting of the weapon by a gunner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: SAAB AB
    Inventor: Christer Regebro
  • Publication number: 20090308272
    Abstract: A lethality device includes a penetrator structure configured to penetrate a target and an incendiary material disposed near the penetrator structure. The incendiary material self-ignites and is injected into the target after penetration of the target. A projectile includes a penetrator structure configured to penetrate a target, an incendiary material disposed near the penetrator structure, and one or components other than the penetrator structure and the incendiary material disposed aft of the penetrator structure. Loads from the one or more components are transferred to the penetrator structure upon impact with the target. The incendiary material self-ignites and is injected into the target after penetration of the target. A method for defeating a target containing an ignitable material includes broaching or puncturing an outer skin of the target, self-igniting an incendiary material, injecting the ignited incendiary material into the target, and igniting a material disposed within the target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventors: Wayne K. Schroeder, Johnny E. Banks
  • Publication number: 20090301337
    Abstract: The current invention relates to the fields of ballistic and kinetic energy (KE) weapons. Specifically a novel apparatus and use of nanomaterials has been developed to make significant improvements over existing weapons. By incorporating nano-scale particles as a filler material for kinetic energy weapons several advancements are realized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: NovaCentrix Corporation
    Inventors: Dennis Eugene Wilson, Kurt A. Schroder, Darrin Lee Willauer, Stephan Bless, Rodney Thompson Russell
  • Publication number: 20090272288
    Abstract: An elongate, flexible, incendiary device for producing a nearly instantaneous source of flaming combustion along a linear pathway of indeterminate length. The incendiary device is provided in the form of a solid, continuous strand, such as, for example, a ribbon, tape, cord, filament, rope or tube. The device is comprised of means for rapid ignition along the longitudinal axis of the strand in co-linear arrangement with a solid or semi-solid combustible fuel composition. Upon ignition, the device produces flames from its exterior surface for a duration of time suitable for igniting nearby combustible matter. The incendiary device provides a nearly instantaneous line of fire for igniting prescribed fires, controlled burns, and backfires. A method for igniting vegetative matter over an area of land using one or more indeterminate lengths of a rapidly igniting linear incendiary strand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Reistroffer
  • Publication number: 20090266261
    Abstract: Disclosed is an incendiary compound comprising spherical zirconium, titanium, or hafnium powder having an average grain size of 50 to 250 ?m as well as a thermosetting or thermoplastic micronized organic binder which is added to the powder at a quantity of less than 1 percent by weight. The incendiary compound is fastened in the projectile or warhead by pressing and then thermally treating the same in order to activate crosslinking of the thermosetting binder or melt the thermoplastic binder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Gunther Diewald
  • Patent number: 7603951
    Abstract: A projectile having a reactive material disposed therein is provided. The projectile includes a housing which defines a cavity, the cavity being open at one end of thereof. A reactive material is disposed within the cavity. A tip is coupled with the housing and substantially encloses the opening of the cavity. The housing, the reactive material and the tip are cooperatively positioned and configured so as to define a void space between a surface of the tip and a surface of the reactive material. Upon impact with a target, the tip of the projectile is designed to become displaced within the cavity until it contacts the reactive material and transfers kinetic energy thereto, thereby causing ignition of the reactive material. The void space may be defined to provide a desired amount of time between initial impact of the projectile with a target and the subsequent ignition of the reactive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventors: Michael T. Rose, Daniel W. Doll, James R. Hodgson, Robert K. Goodell, Randall T. Busky, Edward J. Bray, II, Daniel B. Nielson
  • Patent number: 7571680
    Abstract: A fuel-storing ordnance canister for release from military aircraft that does not explode upon impact, its collapsible accordion-like structure instead forcefully dispersing atomized fuel in an upwardly direction in the impact zone after descent for dispersal in, around, and beyond the impact zone. When the fuel from multiple canisters is released into a drop zone and later ignited by a dropped or ground-based incendiary device, all life in the dispersal area is eliminated. Tail fins assure nose-down flight and provide handles for easy canister handling and loading onto airplanes. The configuration of a pop-open tail plug allows for its partial release upon canister collapse to create a spray nozzle that atomizes the fuel stored in the canister as it is being dispersed. The most preferred application is by the U.S. Military to eliminate terrorists hiding in caves, hidden ordnance, and other areas previously resistant to air-released ordnance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Inventor: Samuel Barran Tafoya
  • Patent number: 7568432
    Abstract: An agent defeat bomb including a payload with at least one metal-based high thermal component, effective for producing high temperature, and a plurality of oxidizer components, such that the high thermal component and oxidizer are progressively stacked through the length of the projectile and react within the body of the bomb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: James J. Baker, Carl Gotzmer, Robert Gill, Steven L. Kim, Matt Blachek
  • Patent number: 7543533
    Abstract: A reusable special effects audible and visual fireball generator device which comprises a cylindrical main housing having end caps mounted at each end. A gas container is positioned within the housing and a knife blade is mounted within the housing adjacent one end cap. A holder containing a predetermined amount of black sporting powder is secured within the housing adjacent the other end cap. When the black sporting powder is ignited, the gas container is forced against the knife blade, rupturing the tank. The released liquid gas mixes with air and the black sporting powder igniting the mixture and providing a fireball effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Inventor: Vincent Montefusco
  • Publication number: 20090139422
    Abstract: The invention relates to a destruction system for destroying a functional layer, which may receive data or perform other functions, such as optical functions, for example, and a related method. The reactants may be interspersed within the functional layer or may be provided in a separate layer adjacent to the functional layer. The reactants are structured to be ignited to destroy the functionality of the functional layer and the data. Ignition may be obtained through a flame or by suitable electrical current in certain embodiments of the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Jonathan Mohler
  • Patent number: 7487726
    Abstract: A fireball generator device comprising a steel cylindrical main housing having first and second threaded end caps. A shotgun shell is encased in a barrel member and locked in place with a screw-on housing. When the shell is fired, the gases expelled by the shell push a knife blade forward into a gas container positioned within the main housing. The moving knife blade ruptures the gas container and the gas therein escapes and the powder gas from the shotgun shell ignites the gas escaping from the container creating various visual effects, such as a fireball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Inventor: Vincent Montefusco
  • Patent number: 7451679
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for initiating and dispensing an incendiary comprises a feed mechanism (12) for advancing a line of series connected incendiaries to a dispensing location D; an injection device (14); and a cutter (16). The injection device (14) injects a substance such as glycol into the incendiary as it is moved toward, but prior to reaching, the dispensing location D. The glycol reacts exothermically with another substance such as potassium permanganate in the incendiary. The cutter (16) cuts the incendiary into which the glycol has been injected from the line of series connected incendiary. After the incendiary has been injected with the glycol and cut by the cutter (16) from the line, the feed mechanism (12) advances the incendiary to the dispensing location D where it is dispensed by the action of gravity from the apparatus (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Raindance Systems Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert Stevenson, Peter Hanbury
  • Publication number: 20080251170
    Abstract: A thermobaric self-sustaining reactive composition, method and device for defeating chemical or biological agents includes a first material including at least one of a Group IV or Group V metal; a second material reactive with the first material in an exothermic intermetallic reaction to generate heat sufficient to vaporize a third material; and the third material that when vaporized combusts with air producing an elevated temperature sufficient to destroy the chemical and biological agents. The device includes a container having a center core explosive driver with the self-sustaining reactive composition surrounding the center core explosive driver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventors: Peter D. Zavitsanos, Anthony J. Rozanski, Thomas Manion
  • Publication number: 20080229963
    Abstract: A reactive material that includes at least one of a fuel, an oxidizer, and a class 1.1 explosive and is formulated for use in a reactive material projectile. The reactive material is formulated to provide at least one of an overpressure of greater than approximately 9 pounds per square inch at a radial measurement of 12 inches from a point of impact on a target, a hole greater than approximately 2 square inches at an optimum penetration level in a target, and pressure, damage, and a flame when the reactive material bullet impacts a target. The fuel may be a metal, a fusible metal alloy, an organic fuel, or mixtures thereof. The oxidizer may be an inorganic oxidizer, sulfur, a fluoropolymer, or mixtures thereof. A reactive material projectile having the reactive material disposed therein is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: ALLIANT TECHSYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: Daniel B. Nielson, Benjamin N. Ashcroft, Daniel W. Doll
  • Patent number: 7377690
    Abstract: A non-electrical intermetallic thermal sensor with trigger temperatures in a range of 360° F. to about 430° F., comprising, a hermetically sealed housing including at least one layer of electronegative metal disposed in the housing, wherein the electronegative metal comprises tin (Sn), and at least one layer of active lithium/magnesium alloy disposed in the housing, wherein each layer(s) of active lithium/magnesium alloy is disposed in abutting interface with each layer(s) of electronegative metal. The intermetallic thermal sensors of the present invention further include at least one diffusion barrier means for inhibiting the diffusion of the active lithium/magnesium alloy layer into the electronegative layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Amos J. Diede
  • Patent number: 7278356
    Abstract: A kinetic fireball incendiary munition is provided having an outer shell or bomb casing, one or more incendiary submunitions therein, and an igniter therefore. Each of the submunitions includes an incendiary portion and at least one rocket motor that propels the submunition inside of a target volume. The submunitions liberate sufficient heat to produce elevated temperatures inside of a target structure, without creating a substantial overpressure or explosive effect. The incendiary portion includes a solid propellant and, optionally, one or more energetic materials selected from the group consisting of phosphorous, boron, magnesium, aluminum, Fluorinertâ„¢-aluminum and BKNO3. The incendiary submunition may be in the shape of a ball or a circular disk with a rocket motor therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Inventors: Robert L. Geisler, Kevin E. Mahaffy
  • Patent number: 6945175
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a kinetic energy penetrator warhead that may engage both surface and buried soft and hardened targets. The warhead contains a high-temperature incendiary (HTI) fill capable of destroying chemical and biological agents in such a manner to minimize dispersal of these agents. Bomblets are incorporated into the portion of the warhead that penetrates to the target and are ejected, with the HTI fill, from the warhead in order to provide holes in chemical or biological agent tanks to allow the fill to react with said agents. Finally, a guidance system is provided to direct the warhead to the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Carl Gotzmer, Joe Mayersak, Steven S. Kim
  • Patent number: 6895865
    Abstract: A sabot for a muzzleloading firearm has a cylindrical body aligned with a bore axis. The body has a sleeve portion extending in a first direction adapted to receive a bullet. A post extends from the body in a second direction opposite the first direction. The post may have a cross sectional profile that has articulated surfaces, and which may define channels along the post. A powder pellet defining a bore may be closely received on the post, with an interference fit retaining the pellet on the post. The sabot may be employed to extract a pellet from a storage container, by inserting the post in the pellet bore to extract the pellet from the container. The sabot may be part of an assembly including a bullet and a pellet, which may be loaded into the muzzle of a rifle as a single unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Hornady Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Ronald D. Bond
  • Patent number: 6877433
    Abstract: An incendiary 10 includes a plurality of containers 12 each containing a volume of a first substance such as potassium permanganate which, when mixed with a second substance such as glycol which is injected at a later time, reacts exothermically to generate a flame. Frangible couplings in the form of tabs 16 couple or connect adjacent containers 12 together. Thus the incendiary 10 is in the form of a flexible belt having a plurality of containers 12 which are mutually held together until separated by a dispensing/initiating machine. Each container 12 includes a flat surface 22 and a receptacle 18 having an opening 20 which opens onto the flat surface 22. A seal 24 extends across and closes the opening 20.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Raindance Systems Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert Andrew Stevenson
  • Patent number: 6808572
    Abstract: High temperature incendiary (HTI) devices and methods destroy biological and/or chemical agents. Preferably, such HTI devices include dual modal propellant compositions having low bum rate propellant particles dispersed in a matrix of a high burn rate propellant. Most preferably, the HTI device includes a casing which contains the dual modal propellant and a nozzle through which combustion gases generated by the ignited high burn rate propellant may be discharged thereby entraining ignited particles of the low burn rate propellant. In use, therefore, the high burn rate propellant will be ignited using a conventional igniter thereby generating combustion gases which are expelled through the nozzle of the HTI device. As the ignition face of the propellant composition regresses, the low burn rate particles will similarly become ignited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: Aerojet-General Corporation
    Inventor: Hermann L. Miskelly, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6789484
    Abstract: Projectiles or war-heads with an inner arrangement for the formation of bulging zones (4,4a) are proposed, comprised of an enclosed bulging medium (1) which is terminal-ballistically substantially ineffective and is radially enclosed by a penetration material (2) which is terminal-ballistically effective, with the bulging medium (1) having a lower density as compared with the enclosing penetration material (2). This leads to the effect that on impact or on penetrating a target plate (3) the bulging medium (1) remains behind relative to the encompassing terminal-ballistic effective body (2) and is laterally increasingly bulged by the bulging material (1) which continues to flow in from behind. As a result of the high pressures, a conical (crowned) pressure and bulging zone (4,4a) is formed dynamically, which zone radially widens or fragments the passing ambient effective material (5,5a).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: furturtec AG c/o Beeler + Beeler Treuhand AG
    Inventor: Gerd Kellner
  • Patent number: 6782827
    Abstract: High temperature incendiary (HTI) devices and methods destroy biological and/or chemical agents. Preferably, such HTI devices include dual modal propellant compositions having low burn rate propellant particles dispersed in a matrix of a high burn rate propellant. Most preferably, the HTI device includes a casing which contains the dual modal propellant and a nozzle through which combustion gases generated by the ignited high burn rate propellant may be discharged thereby entraining ignited particles of the low burn rate propellant. In use, therefore, the high burn rate propellant will be ignited using a conventional igniter thereby generating combustion gases which are expelled through the nozzle of the HTI device. As the ignition face of the propellant composition regresses, the low burn rate particles will similarly become ignited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Aerojet-General Corporation
    Inventor: Hermann L. Miskelly, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6772696
    Abstract: Projectiles or war-heads with an inner arrangement for the formation of bulging zones (4,4a) are proposed, comprised of an enclosed bulging medium (1) which is terminal-ballistically substantially ineffective and is radially enclosed by a penetration material (2) which is terminal-ballistically effective, with the bulging medium (1) having a lower density as compared with the enclosing penetration material (2). This leads to the effect that on impact or on penetrating a target plate (3) the bulging medium (1) remains behind relative to the encompassing terminal-ballistic effective body (2) and is laterally increasingly bulged by the bulging material (1) which continues to flow in from behind. As a result of the high pressures, a conical (crowned) pressure and bulging zone (4,4a) is formed dynamically, which zone radially widens or fragments the passing ambient effective material (5,5a).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: futurtec AG c/o Beeler + Beeler Treuhand AG
    Inventor: Gerd Kellner
  • Patent number: 6772695
    Abstract: Projectiles or war-heads with an inner arrangement for the formation of bulging zones (4,4a) are proposed, comprised of an enclosed bulging medium (1) which is terminal-effective ballistically substantially ineffective and is radially enclosed by a penetration material (2) which is terminal-ballistically effective, with the bulging medium (1) having a lower density as compared with the enclosing penetration material (2). This leads to the effect that on impact or on penetrating a target plate (3) the bulging medium (1) remains behind relative to the encompassing terminal-ballistic effective body (2) and is laterally increasingly bulged by the bulging material (1) which continues to flow in from behind. As a result of the high pressures, a conical (crowned) pressure and bulging zone (4,4a) is formed dynamically, which zone radially widens or fragments the passing ambient effective material (5,5a).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: futurtec AG c/o Beeler + Beeler Treuhand AG
    Inventor: Gerd Kellner
  • Patent number: 6766744
    Abstract: The various embodiments provide an incendiary device utilizing a multiple hollow core-burner technique that facilitates producing large diameter cuts through steel targets. To facilitate this result, the various embodiments incorporate a multiple-core burning design with multiple orifices at the base for directing multiple jets of molten reaction product at the target. The various embodiments further incorporate an optional holding device as a means for locking the device onto a target. Devices in accordance with the invention having a base diameter of 2.312″ have been shown to be capable of producing an approximately 2″ diameter hole through ¼ inch thick steel plate using a 275 g thermite charge within a container three-quarters the size of a standard AN-M14 Thermite Grenade package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Eugene Song, Gene V. Tracy
  • Publication number: 20040112241
    Abstract: A device for generating a liquid jet, the device comprising an enclosure containing a plurality of formers, each defining a cavity partially enclosed by the former, each of the formers supporting an explosive charge, and a filler material within the cavity, the filler material being a liquid, a gel or a non-metallic solid that will liquefy upon detonation of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2004
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventor: Sidney C Alford
  • Patent number: 6748868
    Abstract: High temperature incendiary (HTI) devices and methods destroy biological and/or chemical agents. Preferably, such HTI devices include dual modal propellant compositions having low burn rate propellant particles dispersed in a matrix of a high burn rate propellant. Most preferably, the HTI device includes a casing which contains the dual modal propellant and a nozzle through which combustion gases generated by the ignited high burn rate propellant may be discharged thereby entraining ignited particles of the low burn rate propellant. In use, therefore, the high burn rate propellant will be ignited using a conventional igniter thereby generating combustion gases which are expelled through the nozzle of the HTI device. As the ignition face of the propellant composition regresses, the low burn rate particles will similarly become ignited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Atlantic Research Corp.
    Inventor: Hermann L. Miskelly, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6698357
    Abstract: A gas-phase warhead for use against a hardened and deeply buried target containing a payload that is ignitable when combined with air. After the warhead is delivered near an air intake of a target, the payload is expelled from the casing of the warhead in a slow, controlled manner so as to allow the formed payload-and-air mixture to infiltrate the areas of the target. After a predetermined amount of time, the payload-and-air mixture is ignited and a detonation or a deflagration within the target occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: John W. Jones
  • Patent number: 6691622
    Abstract: A projectile for the destruction of unexploded ordnance comprising a projectile shell having a core region which contains a reactive composition comprised of a reactive metal and an oxidizer. The reactive metal is selected from the group consisting of titanium, aluminum, magnesium, lithium, beryllium, zirconium, thorium, uranium, hafnium, alloys thereof, hydrides thereof, and combinations thereof. The oxidizer is selected from the group consisting of lithium perchlorate, lithium chlorate, magnesium perchlorate, magnesium chlorate, ammonium perchlorate, ammonium chlorate, potassium perchlorate, potassium chlorate, oxides thereof, peroxides thereof, and combinations thereof. Also included are methods of destroying unexploded ordnance and disposable apparati for delivering a projectile to destroy unexploded ordnance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: General Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter D. Zavitsanos, Charles W. Files, Dmitri Bohn
  • Publication number: 20040016355
    Abstract: A gas-phase warhead for use against a hardened and deeply buried target containing a payload that is ignitable when combined with air. After the warhead is delivered near an air intake of a target, the payload is expelled from the casing of the warhead in a slow, controlled manner so as to allow the formed payload-and-air mixture to infiltrate the areas of the target. After a predetermined amount of time, the payload-and-air mixture is ignited and a detonation or a deflagration within the target occurs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: John W. Jones
  • Patent number: 6679176
    Abstract: A projectile for the destruction of unexploded ordnance comprising a dart shell having a core region which contains a reactive composition comprised of a reactive metal and an oxidizer. The reactive metal is selected from the group consisting of titanium, aluminum, magnesium, lithium, beryllium, zirconium, thorium, uranium, hafnium, alloys thereof, hydrides thereof, and combinations thereof. The oxidizer is selected from the group consisting of lithium perchlorate, magnesium perchlorate, ammonium perchlorate, potassium perchlorate, chlorates, peroxides, and combinations thereof. In an alternative embodiment, the reactive composition is located on the outside of a center penetrating rod. Also included is a disposable apparatus for delivering a projectile to destroy unexploded ordnance. The apparatus is comprised of a block having a top and a bottom, the block comprised of a material selected from the group consisting of wood and polymeric resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventors: Peter D. Zavitsanos, Michael C. Matthews, Charles W. Files, Arno Gatti, Dmitri Bohn
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6659013
    Abstract: Projectiles or war-heads with an inner arrangement for the formation of bulging zones (4,4a) are proposed, comprised of an enclosed bulging medium (1) which is terminal-ballistically substantially ineffective and is radially enclosed by a penetration material (2) which is terminal-ballistically effective, with the bulging medium (1) having a lower density as compared with the enclosing penetration material (2). This leads to the effect that on impact or on penetrating a target plate (3) the bulging medium (1) remains behind relative to the encompassing terminal-ballistic effective body (2) and is laterally increasingly bulged by the bulging material (1) which continues to flow in from behind. As a result of the high pressures, a conical (crowned) pressure and bulging zone (4,4a) is formed dynamically, which zone radially widens or fragments the passing ambient effective material (5,5a).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: futurec AG c/o Beeler + Beeler Treuhand AG
    Inventor: Gerd Kellner
  • Patent number: 6553912
    Abstract: A war games land mine includes a fluid supply mechanism, a housing and a sealing device. The fluid supply mechanism is configured for containing and selectively releasing therefrom a pressurized fluid. The housing has an interior surface, a first orifice and a second orifice, the first orifice of the housing being fluidly coupled with the fluid supply mechanism. The sealing device is movably mounted within the housing, the sealing device having a first side and a second side. The first side and the interior surface of the housing define a first chamber therebetween, the first chamber being fluidly coupled with the first orifice. The second side and the interior surface defining a second chamber therebetween, the second chamber being fluidly coupled with the second orifice and configured for being substantially filled with a marking agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Blackpoint Engineering, LLC
    Inventor: Steven J. Wygant
  • Patent number: 6546838
    Abstract: A projectile for the destruction of unexploded ordnance comprising a dart shell having a core region which contains a reactive composition comprised of a reactive metal and an oxidizer. The reactive metal is selected from the group consisting of titanium, aluminum, magnesium, lithium, beryllium, zirconium, thorium, uranium, hafnium, alloys thereof, hydrides thereof, and combinations thereof. The oxidizer is selected from the group consisting of lithium perchlorate, magnesium perchlorate, ammonium perchlorate, potassium perchlorate, chlorates, peroxides, and combinations thereof. In an alternative embodiment, the reactive composition is located on the outside of a center penetrating rod. Also included is a disposable apparatus for delivering a projectile to destroy unexploded ordnance. The apparatus is comprised of a block having a top and a bottom, the block comprised of a material selected from the group consisting of wood and polymeric resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventors: Peter D. Zavitsanos, Michael C. Matthews, Charles W. Files, Dmitri Bohn
  • Patent number: 6354220
    Abstract: An underwater explosive device, comprising a first container containing an explosive suitable for underwater use, and a second container surrounding the first container and containing oxygen gas under a pressure sufficient to enhance the underwater explosive reaction of the explosive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Atlantic Research Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth J Graham, Edna M. Williams
  • Patent number: 6293201
    Abstract: A warhead has polar imbiber masses containing a complexed energetic composition of a cyclodextrin nitrate, a nitrate ester plasticizer, bismuth subsalicylate and a stabilizer that is dispersed into a cloud prior to target impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: John P. Consaga
  • Patent number: 6283032
    Abstract: A smoke-generating projectile has a decomposable effective mass, the mass including a quick-burning deception component for generating spontaneous smoke, and a slow-burning concealment component for generating persistent smoke. The projectile includes an igniter, an ejection charge and/or ignition decomposition charge and at least one ignition delay device. The projectile is constructed so that the energy of decomposition of at least one of the effective mass components is constrained in a radial direction. The ejection charge and/or the ignition decomposition charge, as well as at least one ignition delay device, is installed in the effective mass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: Buck Neue Technologien GmbH
    Inventor: Norbert Wardecki
  • Patent number: 6209461
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a non-lethal projectile. The projectile (1) comprises a longitudinal body (5) having internally a longitudinal striker (55) suitable for perforating a container (47) of fluid under pressure in controlled manner, in particular by impact of the projectile (1) on a target. The striker (55) has an internal passage (59) opening to the outside of the body (5) via channels (60) made through a rigid wall (35) secured to the body (5) such that the outlet offered to the fluid under pressure remains disengaged even if the impact is accompanied by the deformation of the container (47). The fluid contained in the container (47) can thus escape and spread over the target even in such a case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Etienne Lacroix Tous Artifices S.A.
    Inventors: Régis Riffet, Walter Simonella, Guy Valembois