Ammunition and explosives – Igniting devices and systems – Arming devices
Reexamination Certificate
2002-09-27
2003-05-27
Carone, Michael J. (Department: 3641)
Ammunition and explosives
Igniting devices and systems
Arming devices
C102S221000, C102S222000, C102S232000, C102S235000, C102S237000, C102S238000, C102S244000, C102S247000, C102S248000, C102S251000, C102S254000, C102S255000, C102S256000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06568329
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
The invention relates in general to safe and arm devices and in particular to MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) safe and arm devices.
A persistent goal in safe and arm devices for munitions is to reduce their volume, cost and weight. Reduced volume and weight provides increased space for warheads (enhanced lethality) and also reduces the soldier's load. The reduction in cost increases overall system affordability. The present invention exploits the advanced manufacturing techniques and materials of MEMS technology to miniaturize fuze safety and arming functions.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,321,654; 6,167,809; and 5,705,767 disclose devices related to the instant invention and are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
The present invention is an inertially operated MEMS mechanical safety and arming device for munitions. Compared to prior art safe and arm devices, the instant invention achieves as much as a 75% reduction in volume and a 50% reduction in cost. The MEMS-based safe and arm device is fabricated using lithographic techniques known in the microelectronics industry. The features of the MEMS safe and arm device combine both “sense” and “actuate” functions in a single, inertially actuated “mechanical logic” chip that mechanically arms the fuze by moving a microscale initiator in-line with other fire train components. In addition, by shrinking the mechanical safe and arm components and associated firetrain, the invention achieves an environmental advantage by eliminating up to 90% of the lead used in prior art devices.
The invention will be better understood, and further objects, features, and advantages thereof will become more apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
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Blackner H. A.
Carone Michael J.
Moran John F.
The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of
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