Composite Patents (Class 102/517)
  • Publication number: 20140173959
    Abstract: A projectile is presented including a casing, a propellant, and a primer configured to ignite the propellant. The projectile also includes an electronic beacon incorporated within the casing of the projectile, the electronic beacon configured to emit at least one signal to be received by at least one electronic device located within a pre-established vicinity of the projectile. The electronic device provides a notification indicating proximity of the projectile. The electronic beacon may be a radio transceiver operating at, at least one of a plurality of frequencies. The electronic device may be a mobile device. The notification is a visual notification or an audible notification or a combination thereof. The notification may indicate a safe condition or a danger condition based on an identifier of the electronic beacon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2012
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventors: Theodosios Kountotsis, Agjah Libohova
  • Patent number: 8746145
    Abstract: A munition is described including a reactive fragment having an energetic material dispersed in a metallic binder material. A method is also described including forming a energetic material; combining the energetic material with a metallic binder material to form a mixture; and shaping the mixture to form a reactive fragment. The munition may be in the form of a warhead, and the reactive fragment may be contained within a casing of the warhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: George D. Hugus, Edward W. Sheridan, George W. Brooks
  • Patent number: 8746146
    Abstract: A bullet or slug for hunting a game animal is fitted with a capsule that contains an effective quantity of a blood trail enhancer. The latter is composed of fish oil and apple cider vinegar together with effective amounts of natural anti-coagulant agents, such as ginger, onion, and garlic. The fish oil and apple cider vinegar also serve as anti-coagulants. These agents including also are effective in promoting healing of a non-fatal wound in a game animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: Gayle Wiegand
  • Publication number: 20140130698
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a composite material for the production of ecological ammunition characterized in that it comprises a) a metal matrix formed by a zinc and bismuth alloy, zinc and aluminum alloy, tin and bismuth alloy or zinc and tin alloy and a metal selected from aluminum, bismuth and the combination thereof and b) reinforcing metal particles distributed therein selected from wolframium, ferro-wolframium, ferro-wolframium carbides, wolframium carbides, wolframium oxides and ferro-wolframium oxides, subjected to oxidation before being added to the metal matrix.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: REAL FEDERACION ESPANOLA DE CAZA
    Inventors: Javier Francisco Perez Trujillo, Pilar Maria Hierro De Bengoa, Isabel Maria Lasanta Carrasco, Marta Tejero Garcia, Aito Rey Bonet, Gabriel Angel Fernandez Diaz-Carralero
  • Patent number: 8707868
    Abstract: A projectile instrument is provided for penetrating a target, the penetrator element being disposable in a projectile. The instrument includes a substantially cylindrical core, first and second plates and first and second devices. The core has first and second ends and a radially extending surface. The first plate supports the first end; the second plate supports the second end. The first device radially constrains the surface, whereas the second device axially constrains the first and second ends respectively disposed between their corresponding plates. Preferably, the core is either a ceramic or else is composed of reactive materials. In one embodiment, the first plate and the first device combine as a closed sleeve; the second plate is a lid removably secured to the first plate; and the second device is a helical spring disposed between the first end and the first plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Nicholas V. Nechitailo
  • Patent number: 8689696
    Abstract: A projectile includes: (a) a cured, toughened polymer resin; and (b) a particulate filler distributed through the resin, the filler having a density greater than a density of the resin, wherein the projectile has average density less than the density of lead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Caneel Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Jonathan Seeman, Dewey Privette
  • Patent number: 8671841
    Abstract: The invention relates to a ballistic ammunition or projectile that is non-lethal or has controlled effects, of small or medium caliber. An internal structure is provided, made of a low-density cellular material with an elongation at break of less than 10%. An external casing encases the structure. The casing is made of a low hardness material with an elongation at break in excess of 100%. The casing is attached to the structure. The projectile may contain at least one cavity containing a different material from that of the structure and may also contain a payload.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Securinov SA
    Inventors: Cyrille Raquin, Richard Guillot
  • Publication number: 20140060375
    Abstract: A weapon and weapon system, and methods of manufacturing and operating the same. In one embodiment, the weapon includes a warhead having an outer casing that forms an internal chamber and a dart within the internal chamber. The dart includes a main body formed with a non-explosive material and is configured to exit the internal chamber via an opening therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2004
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Steven D. Roemerman, Joseph Edward Tepera
  • Patent number: 8646389
    Abstract: A jacketed bullet comprising a dense core of a first material substantially surrounded by and bonded to a jacket of a second material, wherein the thickness of the jacket varies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Olin Corporation
    Inventor: Kyle A. Masinelli
  • Patent number: 8640589
    Abstract: A method of modifying a projectile includes removing material from an aft end of the projectile, and coupling a device to the aft end. The method may be used to convert a spin-stabilized projectile into a fin stabilized projectile, by modifying the aft end of a spin-stabilized projectile to accept a fin kit. The modifying may involve removing material with lathe, and may include forming external threads on the aft end that may engage corresponding internal threads on the device, to effect the coupling of the device to the aft end. The modification method allows versatility in employing projectiles, including existing stocks of projectiles. In particular the method allows spin-stabilized projectiles to be converted to more accurate fin-stabilized projectiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Richard Dryer, Chris E. Geswender
  • Patent number: 8640622
    Abstract: A projectile assembly 10 includes an individual projectile 20 and a composite projectile 30. The individual projectile 20 has a communicating portion 22. The composite projectile 30 includes at least one flechette 32. Prior to the projection of the projectile assembly 10, the composite projectile 30 is located adjacent to the communicating portion 22 of the individual projectile 20. The individual projectile 20 and the composite projectile 30 are structured and disposed for separating from one another after the initial projection of the projectile assembly 10.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Donald B. Eckstein
  • Patent number: 8640623
    Abstract: A multiple-purpose projectile assembly includes an anti-personnel projectile, an armor-penetrating projectile, a propellant, a base bleed gas, and a primer. The anti-personnel projectile includes a cavity having a scored surface and is made out of a soft metal. The armor-penetrating projectile is made from a hard metal and is housed partially within the cavity of the anti-personnel projectile prior to firing from a weapon. The propellant and the primer are both housed within the cavity. The firing of the projectile assembly causes the armor-penetrating projectile to drive into the primer, thereby detonating the primer, causing the detonation of the propellant, thereby increasing the pressure of the cavity and causing the two projectiles to separate after the projectile assembly leaves the bore of the weapon. The burning of the propellant releases a base bleed gas that reduces the drag experienced by the anti-personnel projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Donald B. Eckstein
  • Patent number: 8640624
    Abstract: A kinetic energy penetrator with a longitudinal axis may include a forward segment having a lateral surface, a rear surface, and at least one air bleed channel extending from the lateral surface to the rear surface. A second segment may be disposed aft of and torsionally engaged with the forward segment. The second segment may include a front surface adjacent the rear surface of the forward segment. The forward and second segments may each be asymmetric about the longitudinal axis of the penetrator. When the penetrator is in flight, bleed air through the bleed channels may impinge on the front surface of the second segment. The second segment may separate from the front segment. Kinetic energies of each of the forward and second segments may be less than about 75 joules upon impact with a ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Ahmed Hassan, Marco Duca, Mohan Palathingal, Daniel Vo, Anthony Vella
  • Publication number: 20140026780
    Abstract: A projectile instrument is provided for penetrating a target, the penetrator element being disposable in a projectile. The instrument includes a substantially cylindrical core, first and second plates and first and second devices. The core has first and second ends and a radially extending surface. The first plate supports the first end; the second plate supports the second end. The first device radially constrains the surface, whereas the second device axially constrains the first and second ends respectively disposed between their corresponding plates. Preferably, the core is either a ceramic or else is composed of reactive materials. In one embodiment, the first plate and the first device combine as a closed sleeve; the second plate is a lid removably secured to the first plate; and the second device is a helical spring disposed between the first end and the first plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2009
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Inventor: Nicholas V. Nechitailo
  • Publication number: 20140013990
    Abstract: A frangible projectile with a specific gravity similar to a lead projectile. The projectile comprises 34-94%, by weight, binder. The binder comprises poly ether block amide resin. The projectile further comprises 6-66%, by weight, ballast. The ballast comprises at least one member selected from a group consisting of tungsten, tungsten carbide, molybdenum, tantalum, ferro-tungsten, copper, bismuth, iron, steel, brass, aluminium bronze, beryllium copper, tin, aluminium, titanium, zinc, nickel silver alloy, cupronickel and nickel. The projectile can be prepared with a particularly preferred specific gravity of 5-14 and more preferably 11-11.5.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventor: John D. LeaSure
  • Patent number: 8607707
    Abstract: The invention relates to an identifiable bullet and methods for making an identifiable bullet. In one embodiment, the bullet has a generally circumferential body that tapers from a rearward end toward a forward end. A generally circumferential bore extends from an orifice on the forward end into the body at least part of the way between the forward end and the rearward end. The end of the bore opposite the orifice includes a polymeric material support surface. A polymeric material is placed between the polymeric material support surface and the forward end. The polymeric material may include a user identifiable marker for allowing a user to identify the bullet when viewing the forward end. Alternatively, the polymeric material may cover a user identifiable marker and seal the user identifiable marker in the bore. A user may identify the bullet by viewing the marker from the forward end of the bullet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventors: Harry Arnon, Josef Arnon, Neil Murray
  • Patent number: 8596199
    Abstract: A bearing system for a spin-stabilized projectile including bearing configurations that permit selective relative rotation between a spindle and a body portion and which facilitate automatic centering of the spindle. Each bearing configuration includes a conical bearing surface rotatable with respect to a corresponding conical body surface. One bearing configuration is in a forward portion of the body portion and selectively engages a first body surface upon the projectile experiencing set-back forces to direct forces away from bearing elements, and another bearing configuration is in a rearward portion of the body portion and engages a second body surface upon the projectile experiencing set-forward forces to direct forces away from the bearing elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Simmonds Precision Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Edwy Buttolph, John Christiana
  • Patent number: 8590453
    Abstract: A projectile for launch from an apparatus is disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the projectile includes a body; a boom having a first end extendable from the body; and an armature coupled to the first end of the boom, wherein the armature is configured to be moveable along and launchable from the apparatus and the armature is configured to be separable from the first end of the extended boom after launch from the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: James M. Bender
  • Patent number: 8578856
    Abstract: The decomposition of a projectile in a target body, particularly a hunting projectile in wild animals after penetration therein, determines the energy output of the projectile and thereby the effect of the shot. For projectiles with double cores, the properties of the ingredients used in the cores decisively affect the decomposition and particularly the deformation behavior of the cores. According to the invention, a partial decomposition projectile comprising two cores is provided with one solid core (3) made of a material suited to said projectile and the other core (4;22) is divided up into two areas (4a,4b;22a;22b), whereby one area (4a;22a) is made of ball-shaped elements made of a metal material granulate (5;23) and the second area (4b;22b) is made of a metal or ceramic powder and the ball-shaped elements or granulates (5;23) are pressed to become free of shrink holes, in order to improve decomposition behavior control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Ruag Ammotec GmbH
    Inventors: Heinz Riess, Erich Muskat
  • Patent number: 8573128
    Abstract: A penetrator comprising a layered composite of at least one high density metal and at least one reactive metal material such as a reactive metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Materials & Electrochemical Research Corp.
    Inventors: Roger S. Storm, Vladimir Shapovalov, James C. Withers, Raouf Loutfy
  • Publication number: 20130263754
    Abstract: An ammunition round and method of hunting is provided that allows a hunter of the Muslim faith to hunt with a firearm and ensure the flesh of the hunted animal is halal. The ammunition rounds include a shotgun pellet, shotgun slug, handgun round, and rifle round having sharpened edges designed into their body structure to induce a cutting or slicing operation upon impact with a game animal. The shotgun pellets comprise raised cutting surfaces or a defined bi-pyramidal shape having cutting edges and intersection thereon. The shotgun slug, handgun round, and rifle round of the present invention comprise leading ends having cutting surfaces forming sharpened edges. These cutting surfaces include a plurality of sharpened extension members extending from the round leading end, or different surface geometries to create a cutting interface upon contact with a target animal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventor: Richard Neme
  • Publication number: 20130255527
    Abstract: A projectile (100) is provided for operating at least in a launch phase and in a post-launch phase. The projectile includes a projectile body (10), a projectile head (50), and a support structure (80). The projectile head is non-rigidly mounted to the projectile body via a joint structure (70). The support structure is configured for selectively supporting the projectile head with respect to the projectile body in a load bearing relationship independently of the joint structure during at least a portion of the launch phase, and for selectively terminating the support during at least a portion of the post-launch phase. A method for operating a projectile and a method for retrofitting a projectile are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2011
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: ISRAEL AEROSPACE INDUSTRIES LTD.
    Inventors: Benjamin Levy, Abraham Hayat
  • Patent number: 8522687
    Abstract: A kinetic energy penetrator includes an elongated main body, a conical tip joined to the main body at the front end thereof, and fins located at the tail end of the main body. The tip is made of a hardmetal material which comprises hard particles including a first material and a binder matrix including a second, different material. A volume of the second material is from 3% to 40% of total volume of the hardmetal material. The hard particles include carbides, nitrides, carbonitrides, or borides, or combinations thereof. The binder matrix includes Re, a Ni-base superalloy, Ni, Co, W, Ta, or Mo, or combinations thereof. The main body is made of a high density metal or alloy (Density>16.0 g/cc), such as pure W, W—Re alloy, W—Mo alloy, W—Mo—Re alloy, W—Ni alloy, W—Co alloy, W—Ni—Fe alloy, W—Ni—Co—Fe alloy, depleted U.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Shaiw-Rong Scott Liu
  • Publication number: 20130206029
    Abstract: A projectile for launch from an apparatus is disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the projectile includes a body; a boom having a first end extendable from the body; and an armature coupled to the first end of the boom, wherein the armature is configured to be moveable along and launchable from the apparatus and the armature is configured to be separable from the first end of the extended boom after launch from the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: U.S. Government as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: James M. Bender
  • Patent number: 8507049
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the coating of a surface of a ceramic basic body with a titanium compound, comprising the steps of (i) providing a preformed ceramic material; (ii) at least one step of surface activation of said ceramic material using a plasma for plasma-chemical surface preparation wherein the plasma comprises high-energy ions; (iii) at least one step of applying a titanium compound bonding layer to said ceramic material by plasma-supported coating wherein the plasma-supported coating is performed in pulsed and/or non-pulsed fashion; (iv) at least one step of applying a functional titanium compound layer by pulsed plasma-supported coating. The invention also relates to novel compositions as well as uses of the novel compositions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Ceramoss GmbH
    Inventor: Sorin Lenz
  • Publication number: 20130199397
    Abstract: A penetrator comprising a layered composite of at least one high density metal and at least one reactive material such as a reactive metal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Inventors: Roger S. STORM, Vladimir Shapovalov, James C. Withers, Raouf Loutfy, Joel House
  • Patent number: 8499694
    Abstract: A flechette has a forward body (20) containing its center of gravity which is connected to a tail section (24). The tail section has a pair of fins (24A, 24B) each having a preselected longitudinal angle and radial angle. When the two fins are viewed from the aft of the flechette, the pair of fins demonstrate a S-shaped orientation. The size, shape and orientation of the pair of fins provide aerodynamic stability to the flechette while allowing the flechette to be stacked with like-shaped flechettes. The two-piece assembly of the flechette easily accommodates the use of different density materials for the respective pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: David A. Bittle, Robert V. Weber, Julian L. Cothran
  • Patent number: 8468947
    Abstract: In making frangible objects, including lead-free bullets and other projectiles, powdered metal primary and powdered ceramic secondary phases are mixed and densified at an elevated temperature such that the ceramic phase forms a brittle network. Any combination of metal and ceramic phases may be used to achieve desired chemical and physical properties. Any appropriate mixing, forming, and/or thermal processing methods and equipment may be used. Degrees of frangibility, strength, and toughness can be adjusted to suit a given application by precursor selection, degree of mixing, relative amounts of metal and ceramic phases, forming method, and thermal and mechanical processing parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Ervin Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark C. Hash, Trent Pearson
  • Patent number: 8434410
    Abstract: A round of ammunition for an assault rifle or the like includes a cartridge and a bullet or projectile. The cartridge includes a rear portion and a forward portion with a reduced diameter while the rear portion is dimensioned to fit into the breach of a rifle and defines a hollow chamber or interior volume for a mass of gun powder and primer. The forward portion of the cartridge joins a bullet. The bullet includes a bullet shaped rounded lead tip and an aerodynamically shaped forward portion including a tapered shell and a solid cylindrically shaped lead middle portion. The forward portion also includes an axial steel rod between the tip and the middle portion. The bullet also includes a rear portion including a tapered shell surrounding a second hollow chamber with a small opening in the distal part of the bullet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventor: Salem A. S. AlSalem
  • Publication number: 20130092041
    Abstract: Ammunition which includes a bullet having an effective caliber that is larger than its nominal caliber, comprised of a bullet body with a longitudinal cavity in the forward end, and one or more bores extending from the cavity to bore openings on the exterior of the bullet. In use, target media is gathered in the cavity and ejected under force through the bore openings, increasing the damage done by the bullet. Optional embodiments include filled, irritant payload, and jacketed embodiments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventor: Lueder Seecamp
  • Patent number: 8418624
    Abstract: An invention in which a projectile device is deployed from a compressed air firing system that, upon impact of the projectile device into a target, the projectile device embeds itself in the intended target's outer surface or material. In one application, a GPS receiver and transmitter provided within the projectile device relays position data to a receiving apparatus that is monitored by a stationary or mobile conveyance. In another application, the projectile device, may include remotely operable explosives which are preferably triggered once the target is an area where the explosives can be detonated with minimal collateral damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventors: Jason Thomas McGarraugh, Barron Christopher Miller
  • Publication number: 20130087063
    Abstract: A liquid-filled bullet has a bullet cap and a bullet base with a cavity therebetween, the cavity containing a liquid. The bullet base has a chamfer and an extension above the chamfer where the base mates with the bullet cap. The bullet cap is deformed and the cavity content released inside a target by pressure of the chamfered portion of the bullet base deforming the bullet cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventor: Theodore John HALTER
  • Patent number: 8402897
    Abstract: Projectiles with sealed propellant are described herein. In one embodiment of the invention, a projectile includes a chamber having a propellant charger, an exit from the chamber for release of propellant gases into a barrel when the propellant is ignited to fire the projectile, and a seal to block the exit which is opened by ignition of the propellant within the chamber but is resistant to ignition of other propellant in the barrel, where the seal is carried from the barrel by the projectile after the ignition. Other methods and apparatuses are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Metal Storm Limited
    Inventors: James Michael O'Dwyer, Sean Patrick O'Dwyer
  • Patent number: 8397641
    Abstract: A projectile is provided comprising a body with a channel that contains a non-Newtonian fluid. In various embodiments a plunger is located in the channel, wherein the plunger transmits a force to the non-Newtonian fluid upon interacting with a target, causing the non-Newtonian fluid to exert a pressure in the channel, and wherein the viscosity of the non-Newtonian fluid changes upon interacting with the target. By way of non-limiting example, the non-Newtonian fluid of embodiments of the present invention can comprise a shear-thickening fluid that increases its viscosity with at least the rate of shear upon interacting with the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Jason Stewart Jackson
  • Publication number: 20130055916
    Abstract: This disclosure provides for payload delivery systems and cartridges and methods that incorporate the payload delivery systems. The payload delivery system can comprise a stabilizer having a longitudinally cut side wall defining a series of vanes that are folded forward in the pre-launched configuration. Other aspects combine a payload cup nested within the forward folding stabilizer. Still other aspects integrate the payload portion and the stabilizer portion into a single piece that constitutes a stabilized payload cup. The disclosed cartridges can be used to deliver payloads such as solid projectiles, shot of all sizes, powders, gels, liquids, and other payloads to exploit their specific function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventor: James Y. Menefee, III
  • Patent number: 8375861
    Abstract: Some embodiments pertain to a projectile that includes a frame and a first gimbal that is rotatably supported by the frame. The projectile further includes a second gimbal that is rotatably supported by the first gimbal. A sensor is supported by the second gimbal such that an adjustment mechanism is able to maneuver the first and second gimbals to adjust the position of the sensor. The projectile further includes a stop that is attached to the frame. The stop may be a cup that surrounds a bottom portion of the sensor. The cup provides a barrier to prevent the adjustment mechanism from maneuvering the sensor outside a designated area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Erik T. Dale, Ryan A. Egbert
  • Patent number: 8375860
    Abstract: A flechette has a forward section or body (12) containing its center of gravity. A quill (10) is connected to the forward section and is integrally connected to a pair of fins (15A, 15B) each having a longitudinal angle and a radial angle. When the two fins are viewed from the aft of the flechette, the pair of fins demonstrate an S-shaped orientation. The size, shape and orientation of the fins provide aerodynamic stability to the flechette while allowing the flechette to be stacked with like-shaped flechettes in rows and columns or in a radial, circular arrangement. When stacked in rows and columns or in a circular arrangement, each flechette has its nose oriented in the same forward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: David A. Bittle, Robert V. Weber, Julian L. Cothran
  • Publication number: 20130036933
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for packing fin-stabilized penetrators (8) in a carrier shell (1), which penetrators (8) comprise a front penetrator part (10) and a rear fin part (9, 9?) comprising fin sides (14, 14?), so that the empty space between the penetrators (8) and problems with the penetrators upon the release of the penetrators (8) from the carrier shell (1) are minimized, wherein the penetrators (8) are packed in groups (7) and are joined together to form larger packing units (6), in which each group (7) is arranged with a centrally located penetrator (8) flanked by at least three outer penetrators (8), which outer penetrators (8) are arranged so that their front penetrator parts (10) lie side to side against the fin sides (14, 14?) of the centrally located penetrator (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: BAE Sytems Bofors AB
    Inventor: Christer Thuman
  • Patent number: 8365672
    Abstract: This invention describes a frangible bullet made from particles of a copper-based metal powder with the aid of an organic lubricant, which have been pressed so that the pressed particles have a density of more than 6.9 g/cm3, where the composition has been treated with thermal oxidation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Aleaciones de Metales Sinterizados, S.A.
    Inventors: Jose Antonio Calero Martinez, Joan Morato Ribas, Luis Allut Grillot
  • Patent number: 8359979
    Abstract: A projectile formed from dissimilar materials. The projectile includes a metallurgical interlayer that joins the dissimilar materials together. The metallurgical interlayer also matches the shock impedance of the two materials to prevent delamination during launch and during impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: B6 Sigma, Inc.
    Inventors: Vivek R. Dave, Mark J. Cola, Daniel A. Hartman, C. Robert Kline, Jr., Joel W. House, Geremy Jason Kleiser
  • Publication number: 20130014668
    Abstract: A bullet or a cartridge containing a bullet having an elongated body with a forward end and an opposed rear end. The body has an intermediate cylindrical portion between the rear and forward ends, and the front end of the body defines a cavity. A resilient nose element is received in the cavity. The nose element may be an elastomer, and may be a cylindrical body. The cavity may be a cylindrical bore, and the nose element may be closely encompassed within the bore. The forward end of the nose element may be flat, and may be flush with the forward end of the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventor: David E. Emary
  • Patent number: 8347788
    Abstract: A frangible projectile with a specific gravity similar to a lead projectile. The projectile comprises 34-94%, by weight, binder. The binder comprises poly ether block amide resin. The projectile further comprises 6-66%, by weight, ballast. The ballast comprises at least one member selected from a group consisting of tungsten, tungsten carbide, molybdenum, tantalum, ferro-tungsten, copper, bismuth, iron, steel, brass, aluminum bronze, beryllium copper, tin, aluminum, titanium, zinc, nickel silver alloy, cupronickel and nickel. The projectile can be prepared with a particularly preferred specific gravity of 5-14 and more preferably 11-11.5.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: John D. LeaSure
  • Patent number: 8342097
    Abstract: A launcher system includes a launcher having a barrel adapted to receive a projectile with a charge of propellant and a magazine adapted to hold additional projectiles, with each projectile including a piston shiftably mounted for movement relative to a main body. When propellant in the projectile is ignited, either mechanically or electrically, the propellant forces the piston from a retracted position during a period of initial thrust and then the propellant exits through at least one vent hole to provide an additional thrust for the projectile upon the piston moving to a fully extended position and safely discharge pressure from within the projectile. The projectile may be fired at lethal or non-lethal velocities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Widder, Christopher A. Perhala
  • Patent number: 8336458
    Abstract: A projectile in which the metallic base body itself is used as a ground wire and only the signal line is passed through the inside of the base body so that it is insulated by a suitable bore of the base body. The signal line is insulated from the ground wire by a coating of an electrically insulating material applied to the base body, before the signal line is introduced into the bore. The two ends of the signal line are provided with connecting contacts, which preferably can be screwed at least partially into the base body and are mounted in such a way that they are insulated from the base body. To allow contacting of the ground wire, which is formed by the base body itself, the front end and the rear end of the base body are provided with coating-free blind bores.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Baumann, Torsten Niemeyer, Juergen Pellnath
  • Patent number: 8316770
    Abstract: A munition round includes a cartridge case; a canister disposed at a forward end of the cartridge case, the canister including a piston movable in the canister; a plurality of high-density spheroids having a diameter in a range of about 0.25 inches to about 0.5 inches; a rear container disposed in the canister adjacent the piston, and fully loaded with the high-density spheroids; a front container disposed in the canister and partially loaded with the high-density spheroids, a remaining volume of the front container occupied by a spacer disc disposed atop the high-density spheroids; and a cap that closes a forward end of the canister.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Patrick Fisher, Meghan Abraham, Bhuvanesh Thoguluva, Keith Martin, Robin Zeto
  • Patent number: 8312815
    Abstract: A lead-free, frangible bullet is provided. The lead-free, frangible bullet is manufactured without sintering or external heating of the bullet. The bullet is prepared by blending a lead-free copper powder mixture and cold compacting the powder in a die to form a bullet. The copper powder can be atomized copper powder, electrolytic copper powder, or a combination of atomized and electrolytic copper powder. The atomized copper powder can be water atomized, air atomized, and combination of water and air atomized. Preferably, the frangible bullet has a fragmentation less than 5 grains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: United States Metal Powders Incorporated
    Inventors: Jessu Joys, Barry Anshutz, K. Clive Ramsey
  • Patent number: 8307768
    Abstract: A bullet for a firearm includes a rear unit that comprises substantially a solid structure. Additionally, the bullet includes a front unit separate and discrete from the rear unit. The front unit defines a cavity and at least a portion of the rear unit is secured in the cavity of the front unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph Cziglenyi
  • Publication number: 20120279413
    Abstract: A flechette has a forward body (20) containing its center of gravity which is connected to a tail section (24). The tail section has a pair of fins (24A, 24B) each having a preselected longitudinal angle and radial angle. When the two fins are viewed from the aft of the flechette, the pair of fins demonstrate a S-shaped orientation. The size, shape and orientation of the pair of fins provide aerodynamic stability to the flechette while allowing the flechette to be stacked with like-shaped flechettes. The two-piece assembly of the flechette easily accommodates the use of different density materials for the respective pieces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Applicant: United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: David A. Bittle, Robert V. Weber
  • Publication number: 20120272855
    Abstract: An improved projectile having a penetrator and a body is disclosed. The penetrator is secured to the body. Upon impacting a target, the penetrator travels into the body and deforms the body. The body optionally has one or more portions, such as slots in the body, to promote deformation of the body upon the penetrator impacting the target. The body optionally has a bore extending at least partially therethrough that permits attachment of the penetrator at a second end of the body opposite the first end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Inventor: Peter Rebar
  • Publication number: 20120266773
    Abstract: A multiple-purpose projectile assembly includes an anti-personnel projectile, an armor-penetrating projectile, a propellant, a base bleed gas, and a primer. The anti-personnel projectile includes a cavity having a scored surface and is made out of a soft metal. The armor-penetrating projectile is made from a hard metal and is housed partially within the cavity of the anti-personnel projectile prior to firing from a weapon. The propellant and the primer are both housed within the cavity. The firing of the projectile assembly causes the armor-penetrating projectile to drive into the primer, thereby detonating the primer, causing the detonation of the propellant, thereby increasing the pressure of the cavity and causing the two projectiles to separate after the projectile assembly leaves the bore of the weapon. The burning of the propellant releases a base bleed gas that reduces the drag experienced by the anti-personnel projectile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Inventor: Donald B. Eckstein