Temperature responsive safety devices for munitions
US7549375B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 7, 2003 |
| Grant date | Jun 23, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 7, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF42B39/14
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention comprises devices for mitigating the explosive reaction of a munition when it is subject to an external thermal hazard threat. The devices are based on the use of shape memory alloys. In one arrangement there is device which consists of a connector that is at least in part formed from a shape memory alloy, which typically undergoes large dimensional changes when heated or cooled through a particular transition temperature range. The connector in this invention is designed to form a locking engagement, between two components of a munitions casing at one temperature, but when subjected to external heating through the transition temperature range will deform to allow the connector to disengage and thus release the two joined components, allowing any build up of pressure to be released quickly. Advantageously if the co-operative parts of the connector and components are threaded portions, then the locking engagement will be capable of being dismantled during normal servicing of the munition. The co-operative parts of the connector may be integral with the components to be connected. In another arrangement the device is an annulus and is located around a munitions casing s…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.