Abstract: An explosion-driven setting tool includes a setting mechanism (12) driven by a propellant (23), an ignition unit (18) for igniting the propellant (23), a receptacle (15) for receiving a propellant holder (20), a data communication interface (31) for receiving and transmitting data of the propellant holder (20), and a data processing unit (30) for receiving data transmitted by the data communication interface (31) and connected with a display (50) for displaying the propellant supply level (27) of the propellant (23) in the propellant holder having a housing (21) with an interior space (22) for receiving the propellant (23), and a data storage identification unit (40) in which the propellant supply level (27) is stored for being read-out.

Abstract: The invention provides rupturing devices for mitigating the explosive reaction of a casing (121), hollow tubular body or container, particularly a munition, when it is subject to an external thermal hazard threat. The devices are based on the use of shape memory alloys. The device comprises an element of shape memory alloy (123) which is joined together by a connector (122) to form an annulus, which may be located on an exterior surface of a munitions casing (121) or launch such that upon heating through its transition temperature range will cause the annulus to contract radially inwardly, thereby rupturing the munition (121), allowing any build up of pressure to be released quickly. Advantageously, the connector (122) is. reversible such that the device will be capable of being retro-fitted or removed during normal servicing of the munition (121).

Abstract: The invention relates to an unlocking device (10), especially for a vehicle protection device, comprising a locking bar (16) which in a locked position establishes a connection positive at least in portions between a first component (12) to be unlocked and a second component (14) and permits relative motion of the two components (12, 14) in an open position. The unlocking device (10) further comprises a pyrotechnical actuator (18) including a pyrotechnical element (20) having a propelling charge and a piston-cylinder unit (22) having a piston (24) and a cylinder (26), wherein motion of the piston (24) or the cylinder (26) can be generated due to activation of the propelling charge upon ignition thereof and wherein the piston-cylinder unit (22) is connected to the locking bar (16) without redirection so that upon motion of the piston (24) or the cylinder (26) the locking bar is movable from its locked position into its open position.

Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates a high strength, low weight, and low shock rocket body separating joint for the purpose of joining rocket bodies, and method of assembly thereof. The solution combines a radax joint, joined by fasteners, with a flattened bladder and inflation system coupled thereto. Upon activation of the inflation system, the bladder is pressurized and exerts a separating force between the members of the radax joint, overcoming the load carrying capability of the fasteners and breaking apart the radax joint.

Abstract: Temporary connection and pyrotechnic separation device with a longitudinal axis (X) comprising a pyrotechnic expansion tube (14) mounted in a space (11) formed in a connection zone between a first (2) and second assembly (4) to be separated, the second assembly (4) being formed of a stack of plies (12.1, 12.2) bonded together, the two assemblies (2, 4) being connected to each other by two metal parts (10.1, 10.2), said metal parts being fixed onto the first assembly and bonded onto the outer plies (12.1) of the second assembly (4), the bonding area between said outer ply (12.1) and the adjacent inner ply (12.2) is less than the bonding area between two inner plies (12.2) forming a fuse ply, such that, when the pyrotechnic expansion tube (14) is used, the outer ply (12.1) separates from the adjacent inner ply.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic drive unit includes a cylinder tube (12) having an axial end (28), a piston (14) guided in the cylinder tube (12), a pyrotechnic igniter (16) which is adjacent to the piston (14) and constitutes the pyrotechnic drive, and a plastic part (18). The plastic part (18) is injection-molded to the igniter (16) and to the axial end (28) of the cylinder tube (12) so that it fastens the igniter (16) to the cylinder tube (12) and tightly closes the axial end (28) of the cylinder tube (12), the plastic part (18) engaging the piston (14) in an initial position of the drive unit (10).

Abstract: A vehicle is provided having an active bonnet and a pyrotechnic actuator configured to lift the active bonnet a plurality of times without having to perform maintenance on the pyrotechnic actuator. The pyrotechnic actuator includes a cylinder having an inlet opening, a first chamber and a second chamber that are separated by a central region; a piston that is configured to be displaced through the central region of the cylinder between a first position in the first chamber and a second position in the second chamber; and a carrier having first and second gas generators each being coupled to the inlet opening. The first gas generator is configured to be ignited to lift the active bonnet a first time, and the second gas generator is configured to be ignited independently of the first gas generator to lift the active bonnet a second time.

Abstract: An ordnance firing system is disclosed that includes a reusable electronics module and an ordnance module, each enclosed in a separate, sealed housing. The electronics module housing encloses firing electronics for electrically triggering initiation of a detonator in the ordnance module. The electronics module detachably connects to the ordnance modules via a connector which extends away from the electronics module housing. The housing of the ordnance module is constructed to be blast-resistant to prevent detonation of the detonator from rendering the electronics module inoperable.

Abstract: A system for reducing the operational efficiency of a watercraft's propulsion system includes a self-propelled and variable-speed unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) that has at least one homing device adapted to direct the UUV towards an origin of a targeted watercraft's propulsion wake. At least one rod is coupled to a forward end of the UUV and extends forward therefrom at least when the UUV is in proximity to the origin of the targeted watercraft's propulsion wake. At this point, the UUV is directed and accelerated to drive the rod into the targeted watercraft's propulsor.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic actuator for an active bonnet is provided that includes, but is not limited to a cylinder, a piston which can be displaced in the cylinder under the influence of a propellant gas and a first gas generator for producing the propellant gas. The actuator includes, but is not limited to at least one further gas generator, which can be ignited independently of the first gas generator.

Abstract: An elastomeric charge holder includes one or more holes formed therein into which is disposed an explosive charge. The elastomeric charge holder further includes one or more metal wires also disposed within the elastomeric charge holder. The elastomeric charge holder may be over molded or over extruded over each of the one or more metal wires, thereby retaining each of the one or more wires in place during use of the elastomeric charge holder. The one or more wires are also a better match of thermal coefficients to a metal confinement tube that holds the elastomeric charge holder, which results in improved retention of the elastomeric charge holder in place, particularly during initiation of the explosive charge.

Abstract: A sound-suppressed, powder-actuated stud driver may include a single-use cartridge assembly and a reusable handle assembly. The cartridge assembly may include a housing with a through-bore. The through-bore may include a firing pin retainer with a firing pin therein, an ammunition cartridge case adjacent the firing pin retainer, a piston at least partially disposed in the ammunition cartridge case, and a stud. The handle assembly may include a housing with one open end and a bore extending inwardly from the open end. A handle assembly firing pin may extend axially into the bore from a closed end of the housing. A pair of blocking pins may be movable into and out of the bore, for ensuring proper loading of the cartridge assembly into the bore. A spring-loaded locking pin may lock the cartridge assembly in the bore.

Abstract: According to the invention, the device (1) comprises a bolt (6) including a locking member (9) which is mounted such that it can slide with respect to a first component (2) and can adopt a locked position in which the locking member (9) retains the second component (3) and an unlocked position in which the locking member (9) releases the second component (2), the transition from the locked position to the unlocked position taking place under the action of pyrotechnic means (5). In addition, a branch (4) that is at least partially deformable under the action of the pyrotechnic means (5) is arranged with respect to the holt (6) in such a way that the transition from the locked position to the unlocked position takes place by means of the deformation of said branch (4).

Abstract: An explosion-driven setting tool includes a setting mechanism (12) driven by a propellant (23), an ignition unit (18) for igniting the propellant (23), a receptacle (15) for receiving a propellant holder (20), a data communication interface (31) for receiving and transmitting data of the propellant holder (20), and a data processing unit (30) for receiving data transmitted by the data communication interface (31) and connected with a display (50) for displaying the propellant supply level (27) of the propellant (23) in the propellant holder having a housing (21) with an interior space (22) for receiving the propellant (23), and a data storage identification unit (40) in which the propellant supply level (27) is stored for being read-out.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic actuator for a power cutting tool is disclosed. The pyrotechnic actuator comprises a housing defining a cavity therein, a piston positioned at least partially within the cavity, and an insert-molded unitary assembly positioned within the cavity. The unitary assembly comprises a piston engagement member and a base. A sealed void is defined intermediate the piston engagement member and the base. The unitary assembly comprises a breakable member extending intermediate the piston engagement member and the base and a pyrotechnic initiator positioned at least partially within the base. The pyrotechnic initiator, upon application of a current pulse thereto, is configured to generate a pressurized gas in the sealed void that exerts a force on the piston engagement member and breaks the breakable member thereby causing the piston engagement member and the piston to move relative to the base and the housing.

Abstract: A method for generating a projectile using an explosive device that can generate a projectile from the opposite side of a wall from the side where the explosive device is detonated. The projectile can be generated without breaching the wall of the structure or container. The device can optionally open an aperture in a solid wall of a structure or a container and form a high-kinetic-energy projectile from the portion of the wall removed to create the aperture.

Abstract: A firearm based breeching tool uses the expansion gases of a blank high capacity firearm round to fire a piston at a breeching chisel, the chisel having a cutting head that is designed to breech a hardened obstacle. The invention is based on an assault rifle configuration that is modified to use the pump action of a shotgun to replenish a round of ammunition into the firing chamber and otherwise reset the device including the firing piston and the standard trigger mechanism.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for rapidly severing a decoy towline extending from an aircraft by a mechanical spring actuated cutting blade and a thermal fuse type of release mechanism eliminating a pyrotechnic actuation device. The cutting blade is biased toward cutting engagement with the towline by a preloaded coil compression spring retained in the loaded position by a length of a polymer cord. The polymer cord has a heater wire wrapped about a portion of the cord which is connected to a DC voltage supply. The heater wire melts the cords when electrically connected to the DC power supply which releases the restraint on the spring which then drives the cutting blade into severing engagement with the towline.

Abstract: Provided are a strap retention device that can improve the ability to reliably cut a strap, and an airbag device. A strap retention device includes an anchor having a retaining portion for retaining a first end of a strap, and a flat portion in contact with a back surface of the strap; a strap restraint member joined to the anchor for restraining movement of the strap in a width direction; a cutter for cutting the strap on the flat portion; a squib for applying a driving force to the cutter to move the cutter in a direction of the flat portion; and a housing accommodating the cutter and the squib and joined to the anchor.

Abstract: A modular explosive breaching and demolition system comprised of inert light weight plastic assemblies, field custom hand packed or pre-loaded, utilizing for example cast-cure or press loaded explosives. The assemblies can be snapped together to make different geometeric shapes or lines as may be desired, for demolition objectives.

Abstract: A firearm action assembly having an action mechanism with an improved charging handle. The charging handle uses a rod member to engage the action for “cocking” the action mechanism. At an open end of the rod member is a handle which is secured to the edge of the action in a dormant state. Releasing of the lock is through the use of either of two finger members which are swivelly secured to each other. Pulling on either of these finger members operates the other which moves the other finger member.

Abstract: A breaching apparatus includes an impactor element and a self-contained energy source. The self-contained energy source enables the impactor element to impact a first surface of a structure. The impactor element is configured to transmit a localized shock wave through the structure upon impact. The self-contained energy source is capable of accelerating the impactor element to a velocity sufficient to induce spalling at a second surface of the structure. Multiple breaching apparatuses can be supported by a frame to facilitate simultaneous or successive breaching of the structure. The breaching apparatus can be used in a method to breach a concrete structure.

Abstract: A charging handle for a firearm which can be used by either a right-handed or a left handed operator. The charging handle uses a rod member which engages the action of the firearm and is secured to the action via a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is release when the handle is pulled by either the left hand or the right hand of the operator by pressing a first pressure surface when the left hand is used, and by pressing a second pressure surface when the right hand is used by the operator. This pressure forces the locking mechanism to disengage from the action mechanism.

Abstract: According to the present disclosure, devices, systems, and methods are disclosed in which two substantially parallel flanges are provided with rupture areas, respectively, located in the same element of the elements to be connected. In the disclosed device, the rupture areas and the portions of the flanges outside the rupture area are arranged so as to prevent the connected elements from catching after the separation thereof, and to limit the vibrations induced in the element in said rupture areas.

Abstract: An improved tool for installing an explosively driven fastener as well as an improved explosively driven fastener for use therewith are disclosed. The fastener includes a nail having a head with an explosive load attached thereto in a plastic cap that includes a buffer. The tool has a plurality of concentric cylinders and springs including a muzzle for receiving the fastener head and explosive load. A spring actuated firing pin ignites the load causing it to explode and drive the nail out of the tool. The explosion also automatically resets the tool. The tool and the fastener provide many advantages over existing explosively driven fasteners and the tools used to install them.

Abstract: A laser weapon system includes a chamber configured to direct a post-detonation gas flow between a first mirror and a second mirror, and an ejectable ammunition cartridge containing a first gas and a second gas. The cartridge is fluidly connected to the chamber.

Abstract: A kit of modular explosive ordnance disposal components may include five components. The five components may be assembled in various configurations to fire solid slugs, water shots, or fin-stabilized projectiles. Each assembled configuration may include a first component having a generally cylindrical shape, a through-bore, a muzzle end, and a breech end. The muzzle end of the first component may include external threads. The breech end of the first component may include an internally-threaded portion for receiving a .50 caliber breech plug. A .50 caliber cartridge chamber may be formed adjacent the internally-threaded portion. A bore of about one inch in diameter may extend from the .50 caliber cartridge chamber to the muzzle end of the first component.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic actuator and a method of actuating the same are described. The actuator comprises a pressure chamber and a piston having such an outer diameter that it is snugly fitted into the pressure chamber. A gas generating ignition and output charge generates gas that pressurizes the pressure chamber and the piston when ignited. The piston is designed such that at least part of its outer diameter expands under the pressure in the pressure chamber such that at least a part of the external piston surface is forced into a press fit against the internal wall of the pressure chamber and therefore seals the pressure chamber. This prevents exhaust gas and flames from escaping from the device in an uncontrolled manner.

Abstract: An apparatus to remove, energetically, a ballistic tolerant window. The elements include a ballistic tolerant fillet, which extends from the periphery of the ballistic tolerant window. Proximate to a perimeter of the fillet is a plurality of apertures that match up with holes on a tubular frame. The frame and fillet are joined using fastening elements, which are fitted in the holes and apertures. The tubular frame is a polygonal tube having sides useful for mounting the frame to an airframe and for mounting an expanding energetic element with a detonating cord. The energetic element is mounted on the frame adjacent to the fastening elements. When the energetic element is detonated, the explosive force is sufficient to cause the window to separate, energetically, from the tubular frame.

Abstract: A solid-fuel pellet thrust and control actuation system (PT-CAS) provides command authority for maneuvering flight vehicles over subsonic and supersonic speeds and within the atmosphere and exo-atmosphere. The PT-CAS includes a chamber or solid-fuel pellets that are ignited to expel gas through a throat. The expelled gas is directed at supersonic vehicle speeds in atmosphere to a cavity between an aero control surface and the airframe to pressurize the cavity and deploy the surface or at subsonic speeds in atmosphere or any speed in exo-atmosphere allowed to flow out a through-hole in the surface where the throat and through-hole provide a virtual converging/diverging nozzle to produce a supersonic divert thrust. A pellet and control actuation system (P-CAS) without the through-hole provides command authority at supersonic speeds in atmosphere.

Abstract: Temporary connection and pyrotechnic separation device with a longitudinal axis (X) comprising a pyrotechnic expansion tube (14) mounted in a space (11) formed in a connection zone between a first (2) and second assembly (4) to be separated, the second assembly (4) being formed of a stack of plies (12.1, 12.2) bonded together, the two assemblies (2, 4) being connected to each other by two metal parts (10.1, 10.2), said metal parts being fixed onto the first assembly and bonded onto the outer plies (12.1) of the second assembly (4), the bonding area between said outer ply (12.1) and the adjacent inner ply (12.2) is less than the bonding area between two inner plies (12.2) forming a fuse ply, such that, when the pyrotechnic expansion tube (14) is used, the outer ply (12.1) separates from the adjacent inner ply.

Abstract: An axial loaded explosive bolt that can repeatedly be used for the purpose of remotely or automatically activating a timely separation of adjoining walls separated by a finite distance by the means of either an explosive charge or activation of a pressurized gas line. The fastener includes two bolts with internal bores that are attached by the means of a two-piece encapsulation connected by an inter-connecting clasp. The fastener assembly employs the use of either a combination of a thermal igniter and a pyrotechnic charge or a pressurized gas line attached to a solenoid valve and pressurized gas storage unit to supply a force sufficient to properly separate the said mechanical fastener assembly.

Abstract: A separation device for separating parts along a seam includes a frangible structure and a pressure tube assembly within the frangible structure. The pressure tube assembly includes a pressure tube which contains an explosive detonation assembly/cord that can be initiated to expand the pressure tube, and break the frangible structure with a shock force. The pressure tube assembly also includes a explosive manifold that is recessed in the frangible structure, not protruding from an outer surface of the frangible structure. The explosive manifold receives the ends of the pressure tube, and includes a detonator for detonating the explosive detonation assembly/cord. The explosive manifold has circular-cross-section fittings for accepting a circular ends of the pressure tube. By not having any part of the pressure tube assembly protrude from the frangible structure, improved performance may be achieved. Having circular fittings also improves the seal between the pressure tube and the explosive manifold.

Abstract: A linear charge system (100) for applying a destructive explosive charge to a barrier structure; said system comprising a charge carrier (101) and an explosive charge element (120) assembled within said charge carrier (101); said explosive charge element (120) adapted to effect a directed explosive charge for the penetration of a said barrier in which a tamping fluid forms at least a portion of a penetrating agent.

Abstract: A system and method for guiding a projectile is presented. A nozzle system includes a boom assembly body that can be attached to a rear end of a projectile. A gas tank in the boom assembly contains pressurized gas. Fins are attached to the boom assembly body to guide the projectile. A valve lets a pulse of gas out of the gas tank. A nozzle expels the pulse of gas to control an angle of attack and lift of the projectile to guide the projectile to a target.

Abstract: The invention relates to a charging handle assembly for a firearm. The assembly includes a handle mechanism having a pull rod to engage an action of a firearm, a handle and a stop surface. A latch mechanism is rotationally secured to the handle and is meant to be manually activated. When the latch mechanism is moved to an open position, a surface of the latch mechanism contacts the stop surface of the handle mechanism. A spring mechanism is used to maintain the latch mechanism in a closed position.

Abstract: A staged rocket apparatus includes first and second stages connected by a releasable connector. A plurality of pressurized gas struts are connected between the first and second stages and provide a separating force urging the first and second stages apart. The gas struts are held in a telescopingly collapsed first position by the releasable connector. The separating force is maintained at a minimum value so long as the releasable connector holds the struts in their first position. When the releasable connector is disconnected the separating force increases due to gas flow through a metering passage having a progressively increasing flow area from a high pressure chamber to a low pressure chamber.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method includes driving a piston by mechanically harnessing an explosion of energetic material contained in a cartridge. The method further includes releasing cleanser contained in the cartridge in response to the explosion of the energetic material.

Abstract: An ordnance firing system is disclosed that includes a reusable electronics module and an ordnance module, each enclosed in a separate, sealed housing. The electronics module housing encloses firing electronics for electrically triggering initiation of a detonator in the ordnance module. The electronics module detachably connects to the ordnance modules via a connector which extends away from the electronics module housing. The housing of the ordnance module is constructed to be blast-resistant to prevent detonation of the detonator from rendering the electronics module inoperable.

Abstract: A percussive rodent trap has an activation mechanism and a hammer for striking a percussive device when the activation mechanism is activated. A first safety moves the hammer mechanism to a cocked position and prevents it from being released from this cocked position. A second safety can be engaged after the first safety is engaged to prevent the activation mechanism from being activated when the first safety is removed. The second safety is easily removed after the trap is put in place without inadvertently activating the activation mechanism.

Abstract: A pyrotechnically powered actuator having a bellows that provides a force and stroke upon initiation is disclosed. The actuator includes a housing body with a first end and a second end. The bellows is coupled to the first end of the housing body. A cover is coupled to the second end of the housing body. An initiator is located within the housing body and includes a pyrotechnic material and a bridge element. The housing body, the bellows, and the cover define a hermetically sealed chamber. The bellows is compact, lightweight, and can withstand internal and external pressure at least as high as 3,000 psi. An exemplary embodiment includes a housing body that provides a compartment for adding supplemental pyrotechnic material. Further exemplary embodiments of the actuator include a chip initiator that requires less than 1 amp to function in less than 10 milliseconds.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device for separating a propulsion system from a missile, the device including a locking unit configured to fix a propulsion system to a missile, a string disposed to cross a rear portion of the propulsion system to be broken by heat of the propulsion system, and an unlocking unit configured to unlock the missile by the broken string, whereby the number of additional components of an unlocking system can be reduced as many as possible so as to simplify the configuration of the apparatus, resulting in guaranteeing an enhanced performance of the missile, an easy assembly of the missile, and a reduction of a fabricating cost.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for automatically and autonomously releasing a mechanical cable or rope connection between two elements, in a zone having explosive atmospheric conditions, comprising: a mechanical assembly in the form of an enclosure which can be traversed by a cable or rope and which contains at least one sectioner comprising a chisel associated with an anvil and means for moving the chisel with respect to the anvil in order to cut the cable or rope, means for positioning the cable or rope making it possible to pass the cable or rope between the anvil and the chisel, and means for measuring the tension of the cable or rope; the control means making it possible to automatically trigger the sectioner. The chisel and preferably the anvil are made of an anti-spark material, particularly of a beryllium-copper (Be—Cu) alloy.

Abstract: A system for defending a planet having a satellite against impact from an incoming body includes an explosive system and a propulsion system. The explosive system is adapted for deployment on the satellite and detonation thereon with sufficient explosive force to produce at least one ejectum to which is imparted a velocity increment sufficient for the ejectum to exceed the satellite's escape velocity and enter orbit about the planet. The propulsion system is adapted to be secured to at least one ejectum and impart a velocity increment to the ejectum sufficient to leave orbit about the planet and enter an orbit intercepting the incoming body. The system is used in a planetary defense method in which the explosive system is deployed at a deployment site on the satellite and detonated to produce at least one ejectum having a velocity that exceeds the escape velocity of the satellite.

Abstract: An actuator includes a piston having an actuating pin, a squib, and a cylinder case. The cylinder case has a peripheral wall part that covers the circumference of the piston and a ceiling wall part having a through hole which allows an actuating pin to protrude from the through hole. The actuator is configured to make the a piston move backward along with the actuating pin by ejecting a driving gas generated from the squib to a space between the ceiling wall part and the piston during actuation. A sealing ring which is relatively movable with respect to the actuating pin while maintaining the state of sealing up a gap between the actuating pin and the through hole, is provided at an inner face side of the ceiling wall part.

Abstract: A gas generator has an igniter and a compressed gas container which contains a first filling gas and has an outflow opening that is closed by a first bursting diaphragm. Upon activation of the gas generator the igniter produces a shock wave which runs at least in part through the compressed gas container before destroying the first bursting diaphragm. The compressed gas container is filled with a mixture of the first filling gas and at least one second substance having a molar mass higher than that of helium, the proportion of the second substance being between 1 and 13 mole percent of the total filling quantity or reaching, at maximum, the total mass of the first filling gas, and the first filling gas being helium, hydrogen, or a mixture of the two gases.

Abstract: A time limited restraint device. After a predetermined time, a cutter of the time limited restraint device cuts a restraint.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic egress system includes an air encapsulation member which at least partially surrounds a charge holder which contains an explosive cord.

Abstract: An impulse cartridge having multiple charges that are independently activatable. The impulse cartridge is further voltage polarity independent through the use of diodes. The polarity independence provides increased reliability.

Abstract: An ejectable device is provided having multiple ejection bays. The ejectable device includes an impulse cartridge having multiple charges that are independently activatable. The ejectable device further includes an orientation adapter that allows reliable connectivity between the impulse cartridge and a signal source.