Missile fin locking and unlocking mechanism including a mechanical force amplifier
US6352217B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 25, 2000 |
| Grant date | Mar 5, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 25, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF42B10/64
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A locking and unlocking mechanism for moveable control fins extending from the surface of a missile. The locking mechanism includes a pin extending thru the outer surface of the missile into an opening provided in the movable fin. A link is pivotally connected between each of the pins and a slide member disposed internally of the missile and carried by a guide. The links are in a close to dead center position when the pins are extended into the openings in each of the fins. A striker assembly is disposed within the slide member and includes a rod carrying a hammer which is spring loaded spaced from the slide member when the pins are in their extend position. Upon a command signal from a controller, preparatory to missile launch, a restraining device holding the striker is removed and the spring propels the striker into engagement with a force sufficient to move the links past their dead center position upon which additional springs which are loaded around each of the pins are activated to positively move the slide and retract the pins from the openings in the fins.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.