Cluster Type Patents (Class 102/393)
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Patent number: 5398615Abstract: A method of separating from one another subcombat units transported by a rotationally-stabilized carrier body to a predetermined target area. The method comprises the steps of:ejecting the subcombat units and a plurality of masses or bodies from the carrier body;utilizing rotational energy from the rotationally-stabilized carrier body to generate axially directed separation forces in the masses or bodies, the separation forces acting concentrically in relation to a common center axis of the carrier body; andseparating the subcombat units from one another so that they spread out and each cover a predetermined portion of a target area by utilizing the separation forces in the masses or bodies to cause the separation of the subcombat units after their ejection from the carrier body.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1993Date of Patent: March 21, 1995Assignee: Bofors ABInventors: Stig Johnsson, Lars Paulsson, Anders Holm, Sten Johansson
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Patent number: 5341743Abstract: A directed-effect submunition moves in a substantially vertical direction V with a displacement velocity v parallel to V and a rotation velocity r about an axis parallel to V. The submunition includes a shaped charge with axis D forming an acute angle t with axis V and a detection device with axis d forming an angle u with axis D, a target detecting device, and a triggering device. The submunition also includes a displacement velocity v determining device, and a calculation device for calculating as a function of v a value u.sub.i for angle u that minimizes deviation (e) between the position (M) of a target detected, and impact point (M') of the penetrator of the shaped charge if the latter were triggered upon detection, as well as a device for imparting the value u.sub.i to angle u.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 1993Date of Patent: August 30, 1994Assignee: Giat IndustriesInventor: Christophe Redaud
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Patent number: 5341343Abstract: An explosive actuated acoustic device emits sound to be used in torpedo countermeasures. Numbered devices are delivered over an extended area and sink through the water. The devices are actuated at different times as they sink, to provide sound masking over an extended period of time. The devices also include safety devices which prevent premature actuation from jarring or jolting and from impact with the water.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1993Date of Patent: August 23, 1994Assignee: Alliant Techsystems, Inc.Inventor: Robert L. Aske
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Patent number: 5315933Abstract: A method of separating a sub-combat unit from a protective canister. The method comprises the steps of discharging the sub-combat unit from the protective canister by causing a displacement of a driving sabot within the protective canister. The driving sabot is displaced by an elevated gas pressure generated by the combustion of a gas-generating pyrotechnical charge. The displacement of the sabot imparts a trajectory to the sub-combat unit. The displaceable driving sabot is prevented, by arrest means interconnected between the driving sabot and the canister, from accompanying the sub-combat unit in its new trajectory. A division of the protective canister into a plurality of parts is caused. The division ensures a change in at least one of the trajectory and the velocity of the parts of the canister.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1992Date of Patent: May 31, 1994Assignee: Bofors ABInventors: Lars Paulsson, Lennart Eriksson
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Patent number: 5313890Abstract: A fragmentation warhead device has a fabric liner woven from high-strength fibers located between the explosive charge and the fragments. The liner has a maximum diameter larger than that of the overall warhead, and is compressed to fit closely around the explosive charge prior to detonation by forming one or more longitudinal folds or pleats in the fabric. The fragments are retained against the outer surface of the sleeve prior to detonation by a suitable outer enclosure, and may be located between adjacent pleats in the fabric. On detonation, the sleeve expands to contain the gases produced by the explosion for an extended period of time.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1991Date of Patent: May 24, 1994Assignee: Hughes Missile Systems CompanyInventor: Jaime H. Cuadros
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Patent number: 5301614Abstract: Submunition is transported by a carrier to a target area and launched there, whereupon it covers a preset distance at a constant altitude at an angle to the flight axis of the carrier. The submunition has a target sensor and a payload, and is equipped with an altimeter as well as a circuit to evaluate the altimeter readings, and with at least one altitude/roll rudder controllable by this circuit.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1992Date of Patent: April 12, 1994Assignee: Messerschmitt-Boelkow-Blohm AGInventor: Ulrich Rieger
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Patent number: 5277115Abstract: A method is provided for retarding the movement of the flip-out target tracker during a final part of a flip-out without the contents or journalling of the target tracker being damaged. The flip-out target tracker is on a sub-combat unit which is transported by a carrier body to a predetermined target area in order to be activated at the target area during flip-out of the target tracker. The target tracker scans the target area during the braked fall of the sub-combat unit and identifies and combats targets by means of an integrated warhead. The retardation is effected with a flexible brake band. The brake band is initially folded and attached to the target tracker at a first anchorage point in the proximity of a portion of the target tracker which, during flip-out, moves the longest distance. The brake band is stretched past an elastically deformable damper body secured in a main portion of the sub-combat unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1992Date of Patent: January 11, 1994Assignee: Bofors ABInventor: Reijo Vesa
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Patent number: 5277116Abstract: A sub-combat unit is arranged to be separated from a flying body over a target area, and includes a warhead, a target detector and two diametrically disposed carrier surfaces, each connected to a carrier arm and pivotally disposed about its own shaft located in a plane which is normal to the line of symmetry of the warhead and pivotable from a collapsed position in which the carrier arms and carrier surfaces connect to the circumferencial surface of the sub-combat unit, and to a position opened at 90.degree. at which both of the carrier surfaces form a retarding area for the fall velocity of the sub-combat unit and to impart to the sub-combat unit a rotation for scanning the target area in a helical pattern during the fall of the sub-combat unit towards the target area.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1992Date of Patent: January 11, 1994Assignee: Bofors ABInventors: Jan Axinger, Peter Engman
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Patent number: 5251562Abstract: A device with a stabilizing ribbon fastened to the rear of the body of a bomblet includes a first loop of ribbon with a relatively long lengthwise dimension and a second loop of ribbon with a relatively short lengthwise dimension. The two loops are fastened to the same point on the rear of the body and are rotationally integral with each other. The device improves the deployment of the stabilizing ribbon and the aerodynamic stabilizing and braking of a bomblet.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1992Date of Patent: October 12, 1993Assignee: Giat IndustriesInventors: Patrice H. Chemiere, Jean-Paul A. Dupuy
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Patent number: 5233126Abstract: A deceleration device for a submunition unit ejectable from a spin stabilized carrier projectile includes a deployable deceleration element. The deceleration element is packaged in textile package including an essentially circular disc, at least three straps connected and arranged radially to the disc, with each strap having a free end and provided with a loop and a closing line received through the loops for pulling the loops together to close the package about the deceleration element. An activation line is connected to the closing line and held by the textile package for releasing the closing line for allowing the package to open for deployment of the deceleration element after the activation line is released from the package by being stretched in a controlled manner.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 1992Date of Patent: August 3, 1993Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbHInventors: Karl-Heinz Vogt, Heinz Olmscheid, Klaus-Dietmar Karius
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Patent number: 5189248Abstract: The invention concerns a perforating munition for targets possessing high mechanical strength. A perforating munition, released at very low altitude to prevent destruction by ground-air defense systems, possesses a braking system constituted by a parachute (24) to give the velocity vector of the munition a position that is as close as possible to the vertical, thus enabling an improvement in the effectiveness of the munition on impact. To improve the positioning of the velocity vector with respect to the vertical, the munition has a curvature correction device comprising a back projector (13) that is fixedly joined to the rear part (2) of the munition and is positioned in a ring-like way around a front part (1) of the munition, so as to reduce the curvature of the munition in order to increase the effectiveness of the munition.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 1991Date of Patent: February 23, 1993Assignee: Thomson-Brandt ArmementsInventors: Jean Deffayet, Alain Lepicard, Andre Winaver
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Patent number: 5160800Abstract: An improved store launching device is disclosed wherein the inside of a sdard sonobuoy launch container is modified to accept, and properly dispense, only one smaller and lighter store. A positioning ring is fitted securely onto the inner walls a preselected distance from the discharge end to provide a seat for a perforated obturator. A slotted pressure relief ring, with the edge adjacent the obturator having a biased cut of a predetermined angle therein, is placed adjacent the obturator and the discharge end of the container to surround the store.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 1991Date of Patent: November 3, 1992Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Bruce W. Travor, Frank P. Marshall, Timothy L. Kraynak
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Patent number: 5153371Abstract: A weapon arranged to travel in a given orientation when in flight, has a body and a ribbon. The body has a payload casing and a spindle rotatably mounted at the rear of the payload casing. The ribbon is formed into a flexible loop for trailing behind the body in flight. This ribbon is attached to the spindle. The ribbon has an impelling surface shaped to apply a torque to the spindle when in flight.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 1992Date of Patent: October 6, 1992Assignee: The United States of America as represented by The Secretary of the ArmyInventors: John C. Grau, William G. Kuhnle, Arthur J. Fiorellini
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Patent number: 5140909Abstract: A projectile with rear and front sections able to deliver payloads of submunitions contained inside the projectile after separation of the rear from the front section. The rear section is fitted with an assembly of thin blades. When both sections are assembled, the blades are partially in the rear section and partially in the front section, and when the two sections are separated, the blades spread out. The assembly is such that the length of blade that spreads out is greater than the length of blade that was in the front section before separation of the two section.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 1991Date of Patent: August 25, 1992Assignee: Thomson-Brandt ArmementsInventors: Jean-Pierre Pineau, Jean-Pierre Frehaut, Philippe Kerdraon
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Patent number: 5111748Abstract: Submunition which is deployable through the intermediary of an artillery projectile, and in which the submunition includes a releasing device for a braking parachute which is stowed in the tail end region of the submunition. The releasing device is activatable through the intermediary of a retarding element which, in turn, is releasable in dependence upon the exit of the submunition from the casing of the carrier projectile.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 1990Date of Patent: May 12, 1992Assignee: DIEHL GmbH & Co.Inventors: Gunther Thurner, Helmut Hammer
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Patent number: 5109774Abstract: Disclosed is a new type of penetrating projectile, the penetrating capacity of which is improved and more efficiently controlled, notably through a solution to the problems of obliquity. A projectile of this type has a front element forming the active part, fixedly joined to a tube. The tube has a closed end which contains a propellant charge for the propulsion of the element and an igniter for the charge, responding to the impact of the element on a target. In reaching the target, the projectile penetrates it slightly under the effect of the velocity and it is only at this instant, or slightly after it, that the penetration proper takes place. The penetration thus takes place without obliquity. This projectile can be used as an individual munition or sub-munition.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1991Date of Patent: May 5, 1992Assignee: Thomson-Brandt ArmementsInventor: Jean Deffayet
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Patent number: 5107767Abstract: A submunition dispensing system is disclosed which includes inflatable bladders expandable from collapsed to inflated conditions in response to fluid pressure. The bladders are mounted in cavities of a carrier frame underlying subpacks of submunitions. The bladders lie adjacent to the support and central structures of the frame defining the cavities. Each bladder can be configured to have either an unpleated or a pleated configuration in the collapsed condition. The bladder can also be configured for expansion to an overall constant diameter outer shape or to a generally conical outer shape in the inflated condition. Expansion to the conical shape imparts a velocity gradient to the subpack. The dispensing system also includes retaining assemblies for releasably retaining the subpacks in the cavities against the collapsed bladders and a gas generator disposed in a passage of the central structure of the carrier frame.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 1990Date of Patent: April 28, 1992Assignee: Olin CorporationInventors: Mark D. Schneider, Randy L. Hoskins, Lyle D. Galbraith, Gary L. Dusenberry
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Patent number: 5107768Abstract: The invention relates to a projectile having an interior space in which disposable payloads and/or electronic components are arranged, and which are of a type intended to have an extended lifetime. To protect the interior components from corrosion, the interior space is filled with a protective gas, for example, argon, nitrogen or hydrogen, or a mixture of these gases. The protective gas may be present in the interior space at a greater than atmospheric pressure of, for example, three bar.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 1990Date of Patent: April 28, 1992Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbHInventor: Rolf Langenohl
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Patent number: 5090326Abstract: A lightweight training bomblet provided with a housing made of cardboard or plastic. Such training bomblet should be easily assembled and be able to withstand the high acceleration forces generated during transport into a target area. To prevent undue deformations of the bomblet housings made, for example, of cardboard, during air transport and the resulting premature ignition during ejection from a carrier projectile, both cardboard or plastic housing covers are connected with one another by means of a pre-tensioned connecting arrangement and their abutment faces are pressed against the end faces of a tubular housing shell, with the abutment faces of the housing covers possibly additionally containing a holding and sealing arrangement which is pressed into or against the end faces of the housing shell.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1991Date of Patent: February 25, 1992Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbHInventors: Ernst-Wilhelm Altenau, Ulf Hahn, Siegmar Fischer, Margret Palten
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Patent number: 5088414Abstract: A subwarhead adapted for separation from a missile, for example a carrier shell or the like, over a target area comprises an active part, a target detector and an arrangement which imparts a rotation to the subwarhead for scanning of the target area in a helical pattern during the descent of the subwarhead towards the target area, the target detector being arranged displaceably in order to allow a free view at the side of the active part. Two diametrically situated aerofoils are pivotable, each on its own shaft situated in a plane which is at right angles to the axis of symmetry of the active part, from a folded position, in which the aerofoils connect with the outer surface of the subwarhead, to a position folded out by 90.degree., in which the two aerofoils form a braking area for controlling the rate of descent of the subwarhead.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1990Date of Patent: February 18, 1992Assignee: Aktiebolaget BoforsInventor: Reijo Vesa
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Patent number: 5078053Abstract: Disclosed is a system for securing sub-munitions on board a carrier. The system uses straps. Each strap is fixed by one end to a container wall by a tensioning means, and its other end is engaged in a cylindrical lock element mounted on another wall. The cylindrical lock element is connected to a resistant torque generator device which is itself connected to a torque limiting device which gets triggered at a determined threshold value, so as to release the cylindrical lock element in rotation in order to release the end of the strap. In these systems, the straps are released less suddenly than in the known systems, and they are released with perfect simultaneity. A development enables the sub-munitions to be ejected with controlled angles of incidence in relation to the trajectory of the carrier.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1990Date of Patent: January 7, 1992Assignee: Thomson-Brandt ArmementsInventor: Jean-Francois Denis
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Patent number: 5076171Abstract: A bomblet carrier projectile for delivering training bomblets to a target area. A plurality of training bomblets are supported in layers within the projectile body, with each training bomblet having a housing made of at least one of paper and plastic. A plurality of supporting elements are disposed within the projectile body and stackable in the axial direction of the projectile body for supporting the training bomblet housings in the layers. A detonator is arranged in a frontal region of the projectile body. A gas passage channel is formed along the longitudinal axis of the projectile body. An ejector unit is disposed behind the detonator and includes an ejection charge for emitting ignition gases when ignited by the detonator that are passed through the gas passage channel for igniting the training bomblets and an ejection plate for ejecting the training bomblets from the projectile body, over a target area, in response to pressure generated by the ignition gases.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1990Date of Patent: December 31, 1991Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbHInventors: Ernst-Wilhelm Altenau, Siegmar Fischer, Margret Palten
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Patent number: 5067410Abstract: A flexible wing which is connected to a submunition provides a substantia vertical descent and provides torque which power submunition electronics. The flexible wing is deployed in a low drag configuration to avoid collision with other submunitions. The flexible wing is canted to allow rotation of the wing.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1990Date of Patent: November 26, 1991Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: James F. Murnane, III, William G. Kuhnle
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Patent number: 5063849Abstract: A subwarhead which is adapted to be separated from a missile over a target area comprises an active part, a target detector and an aerofoil, the target detector and the aerofoil being pivotably mounted each on its own bearing shaft parallel with the line of symmetry of the active part in order to allow pivoting out of the target detector and of the aerofoil from a folded position to an unfolded position at the side of the active part in order to allow a controlled movement of scanning of the target area. Both the target detector and the aerofoil are provided with one or more displaceably arranged additional aerofoils for the purpose of increasing the braking area of the subwarhead in order to reduce the descent rate.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1990Date of Patent: November 12, 1991Assignee: Aktiebolaget BoforsInventor: Jan Axinger
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Patent number: 5060574Abstract: A projectile base plug with enhanced separation capability has a body which fits into an end of a spinning projectile casing and drag-producing vanes being spaced apart about the circumference of the object and pivotally mounted thereto for movement between stowed and deployed positions. Upon ejection of the base plug from the projectile casing, the vanes are released from stowed positions within the aerodynamic outline of the base plug where they have no substantial effect on the flight of the projectile, to deployed positions by centrifugal force generated by the spinning body where they project into the air stream and produce drag on the ejected base plug.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1990Date of Patent: October 29, 1991Assignee: Honeywell Inc.Inventors: John P. Glish, Bernard F. Bickman
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Patent number: 5054400Abstract: A projectile with rear and front sections able to deliver payloads of submunitions contained inside the projectile after separation of the rear from the front section. The rear section is fitted with an assembly of thin blades. When both sections are assembled, the blades are partially in the rear section and partially in the front section, and when the two sections are separated, the blades spread out. The assembly is such that the length of blade that spreads out is greater than the length of blade that was in the front section before separation of the two section.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1989Date of Patent: October 8, 1991Assignee: Thomson-Brandt & ArmementsInventors: Jean-Pierre Pineau, Jean-Pierre Frehaut, Philippe Kerdraon
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Patent number: 5048419Abstract: A fuze for an explosive projectile, particularly a submunition projectile (bomblet) which includes a first primary firing pin mounted in a housing for axial displacement in the longitudinal direction, and a detonation charge carried by a slide disposed in the housing, with the slide being mounted for displacement transverse to the longitudinal direction of said housing, and to its center longitudinal axis, between a safety position, wherein the detonation charge is not aligned with the firing pin, and an armed position, wherein the detonation charge is aligned with the firing pin. The slide is further provided with a self destruct arrangement, which includes an ignition element disposed adjacent an edge of the slide, to cause self destruction of at least said fuze after a given time delay following ignition of the ignition element.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1990Date of Patent: September 17, 1991Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbHInventor: Gerhard Skowasch
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Patent number: 5046424Abstract: A fuze for a bomblet projectile, with the fuze being of the type including a fuze housing, an axially displaceable firing pin mounted in the housing, a slide carrying a detonation charge mounted in the housing and displaceable transverse to the longitudinal direction of the housing between a safety position and an armed position, and spin braking fins pivotally mounted on the exterior of the fuze housing. To provide a further safety measure for the bomblet fuze and to ensure pendulum-free spin braking for safe detonation, the slide is provided with a safety pin and the fuze housing is provided with a corresponding opening such that the safety pin is in operative connection adjacent the opening with a spin braking fin if the latter is not deployed, and thus the slide can be arrested in its safety position.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1990Date of Patent: September 10, 1991Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbHInventors: Gerhard Skowasch, Wolfgang Hoffmann
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Patent number: 5033390Abstract: A gas generator which may be used for ejecting submunitions. The gas generator comprises a diffuser chamber which is flanked by differently sized combustion chambers whereby three different ejection velocities may be achieved by firing only one of the combustion chambers or by firing both of them together. The generated gas is exited from the gas generator at the same central location, i.e., the centrally located diffuser chamber, to control submunition yaw and loading locations. The provision of combustion chambers at opposite ends of the diffuser chamber permits minimization of gas generator diameter, and a tie member in the diffuser chamber permits a non-complicated and inexpensive structure which is rugged and reliable. The gas generator may have other applications such as for inflating airbags for automobiles.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 1989Date of Patent: July 23, 1991Assignee: Morton International, Inc.Inventors: Roy T. Minert, Larry K. Hansen, George F. Kirchoff, Donald R. Lauritzen
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Patent number: 5022325Abstract: A fuze for a bomblet projectile of the type including a primary firing pin mounted in a housing for axial displacement in the longitudinal direction and a detonation charge carried by a slide disposed in the housing for displacement in a direction transverse to said longitudinal direction of the housing, between a safety position, wherein the detonation charge is not aligned with the primary firing pin, and an armed position, wherein the detonation charge is aligned with primary firing pin. To further improve the firing and safety devices of such fuzes and permit safe pick-up of duds, a lateral recess is provided in a side surface of the slide in the form of a longitudinal groove so that the movement of the slide, if minimum centrifugal forces are no longer present, can be arrested in an intermediate position by renewed engagement of a spring tensioned safety pin in the recess.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1990Date of Patent: June 11, 1991Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbHInventors: Gerhard Skowasch, Udo Sabranski, Jurgen Funk, Siegfried Quick
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Patent number: 5016533Abstract: A bomblet projectile includes a projectile body, a fuse housing on the body at the rear end thereof; and an unwindable stabilization band for stabilizing the position of the projectile while dropping. The band forms, in the deployed state, a loop having leg portions terminating in fastening regions secured to the fuse housing and a dome portion flanked by the leg portions. The band has a length and different widths along the length. The band has its greatest width in the dome portion and its smallest width in the leg portions, externally of the fastening regions.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 1990Date of Patent: May 21, 1991Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbHInventor: Lutz Borngen
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Patent number: 5005481Abstract: A submunition dispensing system is disclosed which includes inflatable bladders expandable from collapsed to inflated conditions in response to fluid pressure. The bladders are mounted in cavities of a carrier frame underlying subpacks of submunitions. The bladders lie adjacent to the support and central structures of the frame defining the cavities. Each bladder can be configured to have either an unpleated or a pleated configuration in the collapsed condition. The bladder can also be configured for expansion to an overall constant diameter outer shape or to a generally conical outer shape in the inflated condition. Expansion to the conical shape imparts a velocity gradient to the subpack. The dispensing system also includes retaining assemblies for releasably retaining the subpacks in the cavities against the collapsed bladders and a gas generator disposed in a passage of the central structure of the carrier frame.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1989Date of Patent: April 9, 1991Assignee: Olin CorporationInventors: Mark D. Schneider, Randy L. Hoskins, Lyle D. Galbraith, Gary L. Dusenberry
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Patent number: 5001983Abstract: An article of submunition which is harnessed as a rotating load through the intermediary of a connecting device to the shroud lines of a parachute. The connecting device is designed as a torque or rotational moment-transmitting spreader arrangement for the radial spacing of the coupling of the shroud lines to a spin line carrying the load; whereby a coupling device is positioned between the connecting device and the spin line, in which the coupling device is constructed as a load-dependent slip coupling for the reduction of the torque which is transmitted from the spin line to the connecting device.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1990Date of Patent: March 26, 1991Assignee: Diehl GmbH & Co.Inventors: Gunther Thurner, Helmut Hammer
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Patent number: 4998480Abstract: Disclosed is a device for unlocking a system for fixing sub-munitions on board a carrier, namely any flying vehicle (such as a rocket, missile, stand-off missile etc.). Each sub-munition is held on the body of the carrier by a movable holding clamp fixed to the sub-munition locked by a rod against which there lies a roller fixed to the end of the movable holding clamp. A pneumatic system formed by a piston activates the rod comprising different parts with different widths and diameters so that its step part, on which the roller lies, is translated and leaves place for its central part, in such a way that the movable holding clamp can pivot around the shaft, thus releasing the sub-munition.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 1990Date of Patent: March 12, 1991Assignee: Thomson-Brandt ArmementsInventors: Jean F. Denis, Alain Lepicard, Henri Ropars
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Patent number: 4989517Abstract: The invention discloses an improved conventional munition employing a dual omblet configuration including dual shaped charges and a design which uses a Misznay-Schardin end plate with a shaped charge. Both bomblets are separately enclosed by fragmenting warheads that are positioned in tandem. the tandem bomblet design results in a nesting arrangement of the fragmenting warhead, or sub-munition, to produce maximum packaging efficiency. A forward sub-munition of a tandem bomblet will nest within a cavity of a shaped charge of an aft sub-munition.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 1982Date of Patent: February 5, 1991Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: Louis J. Adimari, Jerry Pentel
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Patent number: 4986188Abstract: Disclosed is a protective casing for ejectable munitions, having means enabling it to be broken through, this being a necessary operation for the sub-munitions to be ejected, in the next stage, without any difficulty of breaking through and ejection. The fracture lines are obtained by means of screens of high temperature resistant fibers arranged in a plane perpendicular to the internal and external surfaces of the casing. This casing is a part obtained, for example, by fusion and molding. The screen is integrated so that, during the casting of the metal, this metal links up all the fibers forming the screen together. The invention can be applied to protective casings, notably for rockets and munitions carriers.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 1989Date of Patent: January 22, 1991Assignee: Thomson-Brandt ArmementsInventors: Jean-Francois Denis, Rene Thouron
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Patent number: 4981079Abstract: The disclosed projectile has a tube forming a mortar, a munition contained in the tube, at least three deployable fins, solidly joined to the tube, and firing means triggering the ejection of the munition. During operation, when the projectile, released from an aircraft, lands on the ground for example, the fins form a pedestal in the mortar tube and, upon the command of the firing means, the munition is ejected to a certain distance from the tube.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 1989Date of Patent: January 1, 1991Assignee: Thomson-Brandt ArmementsInventor: Andre Winaver
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Patent number: 4960055Abstract: A projectile forms the head of a carrier having a defined ballistic trajectory and comprises sub-munitions that are ejected at a given moment on the trajectory of the projectile and are designed to reach an impact zone with a pre-defined shape. In the main projectile, the sub-munitions are arranged so that:firstly, they are ejected in a controlled direction,and secondly, at ejection, a cone of dispersion of projectiles with a pre-defined shape is obtained, the said shape being adapted to the shape of the target zone.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 1987Date of Patent: October 2, 1990Assignee: Thomson-Brandt ArmementsInventor: Gerard Dieval
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Patent number: 4920887Abstract: Disclosed is a system for the holding of multiple warheads, placed in a missile rotating on its longitudinal axis and dropped in trajectory through an end of the missile. Each stage of the warhead includes at least two distinct parts which have to be separated laterally at the moment of dropping, the missile including a casing inside which the warhead is placed. For each stage, mechanisms to fix the parts at the said stage are arranged so that each stage forms a compact unit so as not to cause major radial stresses against the casing due to the centrifugal force created by the rotating missile. The fixing mechanisms are retractable at the moment when the parts are dropped, by means of inertia blocks that are subjected to the centrifugal force. The invention can be applied to sub-munitions and mortar shells.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1988Date of Patent: May 1, 1990Assignee: Thomson-Brandt ArmementsInventors: Jean-Pierre Frehaut, Eric Magnaudet, Jean-Pierre Pineau
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Patent number: 4879941Abstract: Disclosed is a device designed to close a munitions compartment of a rocket and to be ejected just before the munitions so as to open the compartment. This device has a lid locked with a key and an inflatable balloon used to release the lid from the key and to dismantle the device without breaking it, by completely expelling the lid.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 1988Date of Patent: November 14, 1989Assignee: Thomson-Brandt ArmementsInventors: Thouron Repe, Denis J. Francois
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Patent number: 4869441Abstract: A flying body for subordinate-ammunition missile with extendable glide wings. The flying body or missile of the above-mentioned type has the wings pivotally retained in attachments which are arranged generally in parallel with the longitudinal axis of the missile on the casing of the fuselage of the missile, and which are equipped with longitudinal grooves each respectively stowing a retracted wing.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1988Date of Patent: September 26, 1989Assignee: Diehl GmbH & Co.Inventor: Raimar Steuer
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Patent number: 4848235Abstract: A rotating submunition member which, subsequent to ejection from a carrier, incorporates a target detection device projecting outwardly beyond the wall contour of the member in an operating position; and a fuze arrangement for a detonator which is disposed interiorly of the wall of the submunition. The submunition member is equipped with a securing or safe-and-arm device in which the detonator is located on a movable mounting or holder, which is displaceable through the intermediary of a spring-elastic power element from the SAFE position of the detonator into its ARMED position, when a flyweight has tensioned the power element and the target detection device is displaced into its operative position projecting beyond the wall contour of the submunition member.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 1988Date of Patent: July 18, 1989Assignee: Diehl GmbH & Co.Inventors: Gunter Postler, Lothar Anacker, Wilhelm Furst, Anton Brunner
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Patent number: 4844381Abstract: An airborne submunition member, having glide wing retainers which are displaced about the outside on the fuselage or body of the member, in which glide wings are extendable, and which are retracted into the glide wing retainers in the condition of transport. At least one of the glide wing retainers is supported on the body or fuselage of the members as to be rotatable about the longitudinal axis thereof, and wherein this glide wing retainer is turned towards one of the other glide wing retainers in the transport position.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1988Date of Patent: July 4, 1989Assignee: Diehl GmbH & Co.Inventors: Bernd Brieseck, Josef Nagler
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Patent number: 4833991Abstract: An article of submunition including a fuze or detonating device which can be armed in dependence upon environmental conditions, and wherein the fuze is electrically actuatable from an accumulator or energy storage. The submunition is provided with an in-line detonating medium for the attacking or combat charge of the submunition, whose detonating-energy storage can be connected to an energy source through the interposition of an interrupter across a securing device (safety) which is arranged in a carrier for the submunition. Only a single central securing or safe device is required for all articles of submunitions which are deployable by means of one carrier; in effect, for all fuzes or trigger devices, and this single, central securing device can be arranged within the carrier itself.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 1988Date of Patent: May 30, 1989Assignee: Diehl GmbH & Co.Inventor: Wilhelm Furst
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Patent number: 4815390Abstract: A mortar carrier projectile that is characterized for its having a front body with a front head carrying a fuze, and a cylindrical rear body carrying the charge; a rear body of approximately a tapered head shape; a stabilizing tail joined to the rear body, and linking means between the front body and the rear body which fracture by shearing.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1987Date of Patent: March 28, 1989Assignee: Esperanza y Cia, S.A.Inventor: Jose G. Garcia
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Patent number: 4811664Abstract: A slider type fuse for a cargo warhead grenade. The slider is slidable in a lane normal to the axis of the striker pin and carries additional to the detonator a pyrotechnic device comprising an igniter charge, a booster charge removed therefrom and located in close proximity to the detonator, a delay charge between the two and swingable striker means which become unlocked in the armed state and are adapted to strike the igniter charge in consequence of centrifugal forces that develop in the course of flight. The delay of the pyrotechnic device is designed to outlast the flight time of the grenade. Whenever the striker does not strike the detonator when the grenade hits the target, the detonator is initiated by the booster charge of the pyrotechnic device.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 1988Date of Patent: March 14, 1989Assignee: The State of Israel, Ministry of Defence, Israel Military IndustriesInventors: Amir Levy, Ilan Glickman, Haim Berezniak, Avraham Rosenberg
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Patent number: 4805532Abstract: A bomblet has a casing and a targeting device provided with a reflector swingably secured to the casing. The reflector has a position of rest in which it is situated within a cross-sectional outline of the casing and a working position in which it is in a deployed state externally of the casing. A first guide arm is articulated to the reflector to provide for a relative pivotal motion about a first pivotal axis, and to the casing to provide for a relative pivotal motion about a second pivotal axis. A second guide arm is articulated to the reflector to provide for a relative pivotal motion about a third pivotal axis, and to the casing to provide for a relative pivotal motion about a fourth pivotal axis. All the pivotal axes are parallel to and spaced from one another and are perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the bomblet. The guide arms guide the reflector in a swinging motion from the position of rest into the working position.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 1988Date of Patent: February 21, 1989Assignee: Rheinmetall GmbHInventors: Reinhard Synofzik, Manfred Busch
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Patent number: H685Abstract: This invention offers a simple, inexpensive solution to both the dispersion nd orientation problems, and can also be very effective for inducing scanning of the ground in flight of a munition, for target location. A munition, such as a cylindrical body, is provided with two curved, full-length wings or fins attached longitudinally along an upper half of the cylindrical body, both directed concavely against the air flow. (An example is shown in FIG. 1). As munitions so equipped with said wings are dropped and descend through the air of their own power, several effects are achieved. First, the munitions will land right side up. Secondly, dispersal of plurality released munitions will occur and not land lumped-up in a single group for instance. Slots and tabs can be cut in opposite corners of the wings to produce a pin-wheel effect which will improve ground coverage in scanning.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 1988Date of Patent: October 3, 1989Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: Donald N. Olson, Miles C. Miller
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Patent number: H697Abstract: A plurality of submunitions packed in a projectile deliver an incapacitat gas payload at far range from the projectile launch site only after the submunitions have been properly armed by mechanical removal of a blocker member from between an in-line firing pin and primer. A non-ground-impact type fuse detonates each submunition.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1989Date of Patent: November 7, 1989Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Terry E. Thomas, Sr.
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Patent number: H698Abstract: A plurality of submunitions packed in a projectile deliver an incapacitat gas payload at far range from the projectile launch site only after the submunitions have been properly ejected and after each submunition has been properly armed. A non-ground-impact type fuse detonates each submunition.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1989Date of Patent: November 7, 1989Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Terry E. Thomas, Sr.