Remote explosive separation tool
US12416478B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 31, 2024 |
| Grant date | Sep 16, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 31, 2044 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF42B33/06
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Exemplary embodiments of apparatus and methods for remotely and explosively cutting the casing of a UXO and separating the fuzing components from the main charge in the UXO. A remote explosive separation tool creates a Linear Explosively Formed Projectile (LEFP) charge to separate fuzing components from live explosive threats in UXO, for example only, a 155 mm artillery round. The tool functions by explosively deforming a copper liner into a linear projectile or penetrator which then impacts the UXO casing. The speed of impact enables the fuzing elements of the UXO to be removed from the main charge of the UXO either by directly cutting the fuze elements off or by imparting the fuze elements with enough momentum such that they break off. The process of dismembering the fuze elements occurs without detonating the main charge of the UXO. The tool may be remotely placed by an unmanned vehicle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.