EP0463974B1 - Safety and arming-means in an ammunition - Google Patents

Safety and arming-means in an ammunition Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0463974B1
EP0463974B1 EP19910401772 EP91401772A EP0463974B1 EP 0463974 B1 EP0463974 B1 EP 0463974B1 EP 19910401772 EP19910401772 EP 19910401772 EP 91401772 A EP91401772 A EP 91401772A EP 0463974 B1 EP0463974 B1 EP 0463974B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
movement
helical
safety
firing
phase
Prior art date
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EP19910401772
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0463974A1 (en
Inventor
Michel Beglarian
Jean-Claude Depeigne
Michel Vincent
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Direction General pour lArmement DGA
Etat Francais
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Direction General pour lArmement DGA
Etat Francais
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    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42C—AMMUNITION FUZES; ARMING OR SAFETY MEANS THEREFOR
    • F42C15/00—Arming-means in fuzes; Safety means for preventing premature detonation of fuzes or charges
    • F42C15/34—Arming-means in fuzes; Safety means for preventing premature detonation of fuzes or charges wherein the safety or arming action is effected by a blocking-member in the pyrotechnic or explosive train between primer and main charge
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42C—AMMUNITION FUZES; ARMING OR SAFETY MEANS THEREFOR
    • F42C15/00—Arming-means in fuzes; Safety means for preventing premature detonation of fuzes or charges
    • F42C15/18—Arming-means in fuzes; Safety means for preventing premature detonation of fuzes or charges wherein a carrier for an element of the pyrotechnic or explosive train is moved
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42C—AMMUNITION FUZES; ARMING OR SAFETY MEANS THEREFOR
    • F42C15/00—Arming-means in fuzes; Safety means for preventing premature detonation of fuzes or charges
    • F42C15/18—Arming-means in fuzes; Safety means for preventing premature detonation of fuzes or charges wherein a carrier for an element of the pyrotechnic or explosive train is moved
    • F42C15/188—Arming-means in fuzes; Safety means for preventing premature detonation of fuzes or charges wherein a carrier for an element of the pyrotechnic or explosive train is moved using a rotatable carrier

Definitions

  • the technical sector of the present invention is that of the safety and arming devices of a pyrotechnic chain placed between an initiation composition and a composition for initiating the explosive charge of a munition.
  • a pyrotechnic flap (disc for example) which, by rotation, passes from a safety position to an armed position.
  • Various security systems ensure the release of the flap under the intended firing or lighting conditions.
  • patent FR-A-2 463 386 describes a safety device timed by a spiral spring. However, this device is applied to a revolving projectile and the bolt describes an arc to go from the safety position to the armed position.
  • the patent FR-A-2 344 809 describes a rocket whose safety flap consists of a movable shaft first in rotation then in translation to pass from the safety position to the armed position, the display of the armed position being provided by an intermediate piece.
  • Patent FR 2 296 834 which forms the basis of the preamble of independent claim 1, describes a double-charge pyrotechnic device comprising a sequential safety device inserted between the initiation charge and the main charge.
  • This sequential security comprises in particular an arming rod which can be maneuvered by rotation and / or by translation, from outside the projectile allowing the passage of this rod from a safety position to an armed position.
  • this patent does not describe the different types of possible combinations of these two models of displacement by rotation and translation.
  • the seat of the excitation (operation) comes essentially from the armament security device (DSA) which contains primary explosives.
  • DSA armament security device
  • the mechanical stresses undergone by the ammunition or the weapon, upon impact from the sea are significant.
  • the characteristics of the stresses undergone depend on several factors: drop altitude, speed of impact on the sea, state of the sea, impact incidence, etc.
  • the ammunition or the underwater weapon is designed to operate at a determined immersion. Premature operation at impact shows a lack of reliability and an absence of system security and engages the security of the launcher aircraft, at low drop altitudes, which is often the case.
  • the aim of the present invention is to reduce the harmful effects of these constraints and to improve the safety and reliability of operation of the DSA, by avoiding untimely operations due to accidental events, but also premature operation due to a transient alignment of the pyrotechnic chain during significant mechanical stresses, on the impact on the sea of underwater weapons and ammunition dropped from an aircraft.
  • the subject of the invention is therefore a security and arming device for ammunition, capable of ensuring the alignment of the pyrotechnic chain and being able to occupy two different positions, a first in which the firing of the ammunition is prohibited and a second in which the ignition is transmitted, this device consisting of a chain interrupting means comprising a passage made along a diameter perpendicular to the directions of the stresses undergone by the ammunition during the operational phases, and integrating or not a composition relay, device characterized in that it is actuated along a helical angle path a to bring the passage from the first so-called safety position in which it is located in a plane substantially orthogonal to the alignment axis of the chain pyrotechnic, in the second so-called arming position where it is aligned with the axis of the chain.
  • the helical movement can be the combination of a translational movement and a rotational movement ⁇ of approximately 90 °.
  • the helical movement of the means can be carried out in three successive phases, a first phase A or during which a translation movement and a slight rotation of between 0 and 15% of the angle ⁇ are above all ensured, then in a phase B of significant rotation of between approximately 15 and 85% of the angle ⁇ , and finally in a phase C especially a translational movement and a slight rotation to the armed position.
  • the means may consist of a shaft placed perpendicular to the axis of the pyrotechnic chain, the helical movement being obtained using a pin assembly of helical guide / groove.
  • the helical groove can be made on the shaft according to the profile shown in FIG. 3.
  • the interruption means can be provided with means for displaying the two safety and arming positions.
  • the helical movement can be controlled by a motor system of the rack and pinion type actuating the interruption means.
  • the helical movement can be controlled by hydrostatic pressure acting on the interrupting means.
  • the helical movement can be controlled by borrowing gas taken from the propellant of the ammunition acting on the interrupting means.
  • An advantage of the present invention lies in the fact that the pinching, punching, rubbing phenomena of initiating explosives which are sensitive to them are eliminated, since the active materials are placed in a position of least stress.
  • the device provides a delay, or mechanical inertia, additional to the alignment of the priming chain which is not detrimental to the system, absorbs the stresses and mechanical stresses along a preferential axis (perpendicular to the direction of movement). ammunition). This is then always in contact with any smooth walls, during the maximum stress phase.
  • Another advantage lies in the fact that the combined translation and especially rotation movement (1/4 of a turn) makes it possible to visualize in a precise and unambiguous way the armed position of the DSA from a mark engraved at the end of the means of interruption, either directly if the end of the axis is visible, or by returning the position of this reference using an optical fiber for example, and not on an additional separate part.
  • the pyrotechnic chain partially represented in FIG. 1 comprises an electric or percussion initiator 1, a relay composition 2 carried by a shaft 3 in a passage 2a, and a main detonator relay 4 which is adjacent to a conventional explosive composition not shown.
  • the assembly is integrated in an ammunition 5 partially shown and must be aligned in the armed position on the axis 6 of the pyrotechnic chain.
  • the shaft 3 slides in a housing 7 of the ammunition according to a helical movement detailed in FIG. 3 as a result of a force applied according to arrow X on one of its ends.
  • a guide pin 8 is fixed in the housing 7 and is engaged in a groove 9 formed on the shaft 3.
  • a display means 3a for the position of the shaft 3 is provided at the end; this means can be a groove made at the end of the axis along a diameter. The meaning is chosen by convention.
  • the shaft 3 rotates around its axis of rotation 10 by an angle ⁇ , of the order of 90 °, and undergoes a translation (d) to bring the passage 2a or the composition 2 into alignment with the initiator 1 and relay 4.
  • the shaft is locked in this position.
  • the tree can be returned to the safety position, either automatically or manually.
  • Figure 1 focusing in particular on the concept of the shutter axis type pyrotechnic device with a helical ramp and control of the flap position directly at the end of the axis, does not reveal the other characteristics of the DSA such as the devices for returning the pyrotechnic flap and blocking the flap in the safety position ( unarmed).
  • FIG. 2A a section has been shown showing a percussive primer 11 associated with a relay 12.
  • FIG. 2B shows a relay tablet consisting of a capsule 13 containing a priming explosive 14. The initiator is stationary and is located designated by the reference 1 in Figure 1.
  • FIG. 3 shows an example of a groove for a projectile of the submarine munition type. According to the invention, this groove provides a combined translation-rotation movement while allowing progressive movement.
  • FIG. 3 represents an example of a development of the helical ramp, that is to say the variation of the angle of rotation ⁇ as a function of x as a function of the displacement D. The respective extreme values are 90 ° and 15 mm, but they can be obviously modified by those skilled in the art.
  • the curve has a first portion having a radius of curvature R1 of the order of 10 mm, followed by a second portion having a radius of curvature R2 of the order of 8 mm.
  • the curve changes direction according to a radius R3 of the order of 8 mm followed by a final portion of radius R4 of about 10 mm.
  • the movement of the shaft 3 is therefore done according to 3 phases of rotation A, B and C whose respective final values are 12, 78 and 90 ° and corresponding to the translations also respective of 5, 10 and 15 mm.
  • the movement of the pyrotechnic flap, shown according to the development of the helical ramp, must not have a radius of "slight curvature” in order to avoid any blockage of the pyrotechnic flap (movement of the guide pin in the groove) from which value of the helical ramp which meets all of these criteria.
  • helical ramp makes it possible to bring almost in contact (a few 1/10 of a mm possible), without risk of mechanical stresses, two pyrotechnic elements ensuring the correct operation of the pyrotechnic chain at the detonic level.
  • FIG 4 there is shown an example of drive means of the shaft 3 which consists of a rack 20 integral with said shaft and a pinion 21.
  • the shaft is held in the safety position by the device locking 24 (shear pin for example).
  • This pinion is rotated by the reduction motor 22 via the axis 23.
  • this motor is conventionally controlled during the flight sequence.
  • the DSA Unpowered, the reduction motor is free.
  • the DSA is in the safety position by the action of a return device (spring for example).
  • the return device is then compressed by the pyrotechnic component.
  • FIG. 5 shows another example of drive means operating by the action of hydrostatic pressure.
  • the shaft 3 is provided at one end with a piston 25 provided with a seal 26 and sliding in a chamber 27. The latter communicates with the outside through the holes 28 made in the cover 29 secured to the body of the ammunition.
  • the return device makes it possible to control the instant of alignment of the shaft as a function of the desired depth.
  • a safety pin housed in the hole 30 provided with a flame, can be placed on the flap for the storage, transport and implementation configurations, until the ammunition is released.
  • FIG 6 there is shown an example of means drive shaft 3 applicable to aerial and possibly submarine munitions.
  • One end of the shaft 3 is provided with a piston 31 fitted with a seal 32 sliding in a chamber 33.
  • the chamber is closed by a cover 34 which leaves the piston facing a circuit for taking samples of combustion gases.
  • the pyrotechnic shutter In the safety position, the pyrotechnic shutter is held in the "unarmed" position by the locking device 36 not shown.
  • the pressure of the gases taken from the propellant or from any other sub-assembly of the ammunition, for example gas generator or pressurized tank, etc., is brought by the conduit 35 into the chamber 33, the borrowing of gas taking place according to a determined sequence.
  • the gas pressure exerted on the piston 31 of the pyrotechnic shutter allows the alignment of the pyrotechnic chain, the blocking device 36 of the shutter then being lifted, erased or sheared according to the blocking principle used.
  • the return device allows the flap to return to the safety position in the event of degraded situations in flight.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Portable Nailing Machines And Staplers (AREA)
  • Refuge Islands, Traffic Blockers, Or Guard Fence (AREA)

Description

Le secteur technique de la présente invention est celui des dispositifs de sécurité et d'armement d'une chaîne pyrotechnique placés entre une composition d'initiation et une composition d'amorçage de la charge explosive d'une munition.The technical sector of the present invention is that of the safety and arming devices of a pyrotechnic chain placed between an initiation composition and a composition for initiating the explosive charge of a munition.

De nombreux dispositifs de sécurité ont été proposés pour assurer cette fonction. En règle générale, on utilise un volet pyrotechnique (disque par exemple) qui par rotation passe d'une position de sécurité à une position armée. Divers systèmes de sécurité assurent la libération du volet dans les conditions de tir ou d'allumage prévues.Many security devices have been proposed to provide this function. As a general rule, a pyrotechnic flap (disc for example) is used which, by rotation, passes from a safety position to an armed position. Various security systems ensure the release of the flap under the intended firing or lighting conditions.

Ainsi, le brevet FR-A-2 463 386 décrit un dispositif de sécurité temporisé par un ressort spiral. Toutefois, ce dispositif est appliqué à un projectile giratoire et le verrou décrit un arc de cercle pour passer de la position de sécurité à la position armée.Thus, patent FR-A-2 463 386 describes a safety device timed by a spiral spring. However, this device is applied to a revolving projectile and the bolt describes an arc to go from the safety position to the armed position.

Le brevet FR-A-2 344 809 décrit une fusée dont le volet de sécurité est constitué d'un arbre mobile d'abord en rotation puis en translation pour passer de la position de sécurité à la position armée, la visualisation de la position armée étant assurée par une pièce intermédiaire.The patent FR-A-2 344 809 describes a rocket whose safety flap consists of a movable shaft first in rotation then in translation to pass from the safety position to the armed position, the display of the armed position being provided by an intermediate piece.

Le brevet FR 2 296 834 qui forme la base du préambule de la revendication indépendante 1, décrit un dispositif pyrotechnique à double charge comportant une sécurité séquentielle intercalée entre la charge d'initiation et la charge principale. Cette sécurité séquentielle comporte notamment une tige d'armement manoeuvrable par rotation et/ou par translation, depuis l'extérieur du projectile permettant le passage de cette tige d'une position de sécurité à une position armée. Toutefois, ce brevet ne décrit pas les différents types de combinaisons possibles de ces deux modèles de déplacement par rotation et translation.Patent FR 2 296 834, which forms the basis of the preamble of independent claim 1, describes a double-charge pyrotechnic device comprising a sequential safety device inserted between the initiation charge and the main charge. This sequential security comprises in particular an arming rod which can be maneuvered by rotation and / or by translation, from outside the projectile allowing the passage of this rod from a safety position to an armed position. However, this patent does not describe the different types of possible combinations of these two models of displacement by rotation and translation.

Les sollicitations mécaniques importantes que subissent les armes et munitions, lors de la mise à feu des propulseurs ou lors de l'impact sur la mer pour les armes et munitions sous-marines larguées d'aéronefs, sont susceptibles d'entraîner un fonctionnement accidentel et intempestif de l'arme ou de la munition.The significant mechanical stresses on weapons and ammunition, when firing propellants or when impacting on the sea for underwater weapons and ammunition dropped from aircraft, are likely to cause accidental operation and untimely weapon or ammunition.

Le siège de l'excitation (fonctionnement) provient essentiellement du dispositif de sécurité d'armement (DSA) qui comporte des explosifs primaires.The seat of the excitation (operation) comes essentially from the armament security device (DSA) which contains primary explosives.

Dans le cas d'une munition sous-marine larguée d'aéronef, les contraintes mécaniques subies par la munition ou l'arme, à l'impact de la mer, sont importantes. Les caractéristiques des contraintes subies dépendent de plusieurs facteurs : altitude de largage, vitesse d'impact sur la mer, état de la mer, incidence d'impact,....Par définition, la munition ou l'arme sous-marine est conçue pour fonctionner à une immersion déterminée. Un fonctionnement prématuré à l'impact montre un manque de fiabilité et une absence de sécurité du système et engage la sécurité de l'aéronef lanceur, lors d'altitudes de largage faibles, ce qui est souvent le cas.In the case of a submarine munition dropped from an aircraft, the mechanical stresses undergone by the ammunition or the weapon, upon impact from the sea, are significant. The characteristics of the stresses undergone depend on several factors: drop altitude, speed of impact on the sea, state of the sea, impact incidence, etc. By definition, the ammunition or the underwater weapon is designed to operate at a determined immersion. Premature operation at impact shows a lack of reliability and an absence of system security and engages the security of the launcher aircraft, at low drop altitudes, which is often the case.

Le but de la présente invention est de réduire les effets néfastes de ces contraintes et d'améliorer la sécurité et la fiabilité de fonctionnement du DSA, en évitant les fonctionnements intempestifs dus aux événements accidentels, mais aussi un fonctionnement prématuré dû à un alignement transitoire de la chaîne pyrotechnique lors des contraintes mécaniques importantes, à l'impact sur la mer des armes et munitions sous-marines larguées d'un aéronef.The aim of the present invention is to reduce the harmful effects of these constraints and to improve the safety and reliability of operation of the DSA, by avoiding untimely operations due to accidental events, but also premature operation due to a transient alignment of the pyrotechnic chain during significant mechanical stresses, on the impact on the sea of underwater weapons and ammunition dropped from an aircraft.

L'invention a donc pour objet un dispositif de sécurité et d'armement pour munitions, apte à assurer l'alignement de la chaîne pyrotechnique et pouvant occuper deux positions différentes, une première dans laquelle la mise à feu de la munition est interdite et une seconde dans laquelle la mise à feu est transmise, ce dispositif étant constitué d'un moyen d'interruption de chaîne comportant un passage pratiqué suivant un diamètre perpendiculaire aux directions des contraintes subies par la munition lors des phases opérationnelles, et intégrant ou non une composition relais, dispositif caractérisé en ce qu'il est actionné suivant une trajectoire hélicoïdale d'angle a pour amener le passage de la première position dite de sécurité dans laquelle il est situé dans un plan sensiblement orthogonal à l'axe d'alignement de la chaîne pyrotechnique, dans la seconde position dite d'armement où il est aligné sur l'axe de la chaîne.The subject of the invention is therefore a security and arming device for ammunition, capable of ensuring the alignment of the pyrotechnic chain and being able to occupy two different positions, a first in which the firing of the ammunition is prohibited and a second in which the ignition is transmitted, this device consisting of a chain interrupting means comprising a passage made along a diameter perpendicular to the directions of the stresses undergone by the ammunition during the operational phases, and integrating or not a composition relay, device characterized in that it is actuated along a helical angle path a to bring the passage from the first so-called safety position in which it is located in a plane substantially orthogonal to the alignment axis of the chain pyrotechnic, in the second so-called arming position where it is aligned with the axis of the chain.

Le mouvement hélicoïdale peut être la combinaison d'un mouvement de translation et d'un mouvement de rotation α de 90° environ.The helical movement can be the combination of a translational movement and a rotational movement α of approximately 90 °.

Le mouvement hélicoïdale du moyen peut être réalisé en trois phases successives, une première phase A ou cours de laquelle on assure surtout un mouvement de translation et une faible rotation comprise entre 0 et 15% de l'angle α, puis dans une phase B de rotation importante comprise entre environ 15 et 85% de l'angle α, et enfin dans une phase C surtout un mouvement de translation et une faible rotation jusqu'à la position armée.The helical movement of the means can be carried out in three successive phases, a first phase A or during which a translation movement and a slight rotation of between 0 and 15% of the angle α are above all ensured, then in a phase B of significant rotation of between approximately 15 and 85% of the angle α, and finally in a phase C especially a translational movement and a slight rotation to the armed position.

Le moyen peut être constitué par un arbre placé perpendiculairement à l'axe de la chaîne pyrotechnique, le mouvement hélicoïdal étant obtenu à l'aide d'un ensemble pion de guidage/rainure hélicoïdale.The means may consist of a shaft placed perpendicular to the axis of the pyrotechnic chain, the helical movement being obtained using a pin assembly of helical guide / groove.

La rainure hélicoïdale peut être pratiquée sur l'arbre suivant le profil représenté sur la figure 3.The helical groove can be made on the shaft according to the profile shown in FIG. 3.

Le moyen d'interruption peut être muni de moyens de visualisation des deux positions de sécurité et d'armement.The interruption means can be provided with means for displaying the two safety and arming positions.

Le mouvement hélicoïdal peut être commandé par un système moteur de type pignon-crémaillère actionnant le moyen d'interruption.The helical movement can be controlled by a motor system of the rack and pinion type actuating the interruption means.

Le mouvement hélicoïdal peut être commandé par pression hydrostatique agissant sur le moyen d'interruption.The helical movement can be controlled by hydrostatic pressure acting on the interrupting means.

Le mouvement hélicoïdal peut être commandé par emprunt de gaz prélevé au niveau du propulseur de la munition agissant sur le moyen d'interruption.The helical movement can be controlled by borrowing gas taken from the propellant of the ammunition acting on the interrupting means.

Un avantage de la présente invention réside dans le fait qu'on élimine les phénomènes de pincement, de poinçonnement, de frottement des explosifs d'amorçage qui sont sensibles à ceux-ci, puisque les matières actives sont placées dans une position de moindre contrainte.An advantage of the present invention lies in the fact that the pinching, punching, rubbing phenomena of initiating explosives which are sensitive to them are eliminated, since the active materials are placed in a position of least stress.

Un autre avantage réside dans le fait que le dispositif apporte un retard, ou inertie mécanique, supplémentaire à l'alignement de la chaîne d'amorçage non préjudiciable au système, absorbe les sollicitations et contraintes mécaniques suivant un axe préférentiel (perpendiculaire au sens du déplacement de la munition).
Celle-ci est alors toujours au contact éventuel de parois lisses, pendant la phase de sollicitation maximale.Another advantage lies in the fact that the device provides a delay, or mechanical inertia, additional to the alignment of the priming chain which is not detrimental to the system, absorbs the stresses and mechanical stresses along a preferential axis (perpendicular to the direction of movement). ammunition).
This is then always in contact with any smooth walls, during the maximum stress phase.

Un autre avantage réside dans le fait que le mouvement combiné translation et surtout rotation (1/4 de tour), permet de visualiser d'une façon précise et sans ambiguité la position armée du DSA à partir d'un repère gravé en bout du moyen d'interruption, soit directement si le bout d'axe est visible, soit par renvoi de la position de ce repère à l'aide d'une fibre optique par exemple, et non pas sur une pièce distincte supplémentaire.Another advantage lies in the fact that the combined translation and especially rotation movement (1/4 of a turn) makes it possible to visualize in a precise and unambiguous way the armed position of the DSA from a mark engraved at the end of the means of interruption, either directly if the end of the axis is visible, or by returning the position of this reference using an optical fiber for example, and not on an additional separate part.

Il faut noter que ce contrôle est plus aisé et précis sur un volet pyrotechnique du type "axe" que sur un volet pyrotechnique du type "disque".It should be noted that this control is easier and more precise on a pyrotechnic component of the "axis" type than on a pyrotechnic component of the "disc" type.

La connaissance de cette information (armée ou non armée) est d'une importance primordiale quelle que soit la configuration de l'arme ou de la munition.Knowledge of this information (armed or unarmed) is of paramount importance regardless of the configuration of the weapon or ammunition.

D'autres avantages de la présente invention seront mieux compris à la lecture du complément de description qui va suivre d'un mode de réalisation donné à titre d'exemple en relation avec un dessin sur lequel :

  • la figure 1 est une coupe partielle de la chaîne pyrotechnique ,
  • la figure 2 est une coupe AA de la figure 1 montrant deux types d'application,
  • la figure 3 illustre la combinaison des mouvements de translation et de rotation selon l'invention,
  • les figures 4 à 6 représentent trois exemples d'illustration de systèmes moteur de l'arbre.
Other advantages of the present invention will be better understood on reading the additional description which follows of an embodiment given by way of example in relation to a drawing in which:
  • FIG. 1 is a partial section of the pyrotechnic chain,
  • FIG. 2 is a section AA of FIG. 1 showing two types of application,
  • FIG. 3 illustrates the combination of the translational and rotational movements according to the invention,
  • Figures 4 to 6 show three examples of illustration of motor systems of the shaft.

La chaîne pyrotechnique partiellement représentée sur la figure 1 comprend un initiateur 1 électrique ou par percussion, une composition relais 2 portée par un arbre 3 dans un passage 2a, et un relais principal 4 de détonateur qui est adjacent à une composition explosive classique non représentée. L'ensemble est intégré dans une munition 5 partiellement représentée et doit être aligné en position armée sur l'axe 6 de la chaîne pyrotechnique. L'arbre 3 coulisse dans un logement 7 de la munition suivant un mouvement hélicoïdal détaillé sur la figure 3 par suite d'un effort appliqué suivant la flèche X sur une de ses extrémité. A cette fin, un pion de guidage 8 est fixé dans le logement 7 et est engagé dans une rainure 9 pratiquée sur l'arbre 3. Un moyen de visualisation 3a de la position de l'arbre 3 est prévu à l'extrémité ; ce moyen peut être une rainure pratiquée en bout d'axe suivant un diamètre. Le sens est choisi par convention.The pyrotechnic chain partially represented in FIG. 1 comprises an electric or percussion initiator 1, a relay composition 2 carried by a shaft 3 in a passage 2a, and a main detonator relay 4 which is adjacent to a conventional explosive composition not shown. The assembly is integrated in an ammunition 5 partially shown and must be aligned in the armed position on the axis 6 of the pyrotechnic chain. The shaft 3 slides in a housing 7 of the ammunition according to a helical movement detailed in FIG. 3 as a result of a force applied according to arrow X on one of its ends. To this end, a guide pin 8 is fixed in the housing 7 and is engaged in a groove 9 formed on the shaft 3. A display means 3a for the position of the shaft 3 is provided at the end; this means can be a groove made at the end of the axis along a diameter. The meaning is chosen by convention.

L'arbre 3 tourne autour de son axe de rotation 10 d'un angle α, de l'ordre de 90°, et subit une translation (d) pour amener le passage 2a ou la composition 2 en alignement avec l'initiateur 1 et le relais 4. L'arbre est verrouillé dans cette position. Toutefois, après un comportement anormal en phase vol ou larguée de la munition, l'arbre peut être ramené en position de sécurité, soit de manière automatique, soit manuellement.The shaft 3 rotates around its axis of rotation 10 by an angle α, of the order of 90 °, and undergoes a translation (d) to bring the passage 2a or the composition 2 into alignment with the initiator 1 and relay 4. The shaft is locked in this position. However, after abnormal behavior in the flight or dropped phase of the ammunition, the tree can be returned to the safety position, either automatically or manually.

La figure 1, portant notamment sur le concept du volet pyrotechnique du type axe avec une rampe hélicoïdale et le contrôle de la position du volet directement en bout d'axe, ne fait pas apparaître les autres caractéristiques du DSA tels que les dispositifs de rappel du volet pyrotechnique et de blocage du volet en position sécurité (non armé).Figure 1, focusing in particular on the concept of the shutter axis type pyrotechnic device with a helical ramp and control of the flap position directly at the end of the axis, does not reveal the other characteristics of the DSA such as the devices for returning the pyrotechnic flap and blocking the flap in the safety position ( unarmed).

Ces dispositifs, non représentés, sont de conception simple et peuvent être multiples :

  • ressorts à boudin, à lame, pour le dispositif de rappel, en se limitant aux dispositifs très simples,
  • masselotte à inertie, butée effaçable, goupille et flamme de sécurité mobile, éventuellement goupille à cisailler dans certains cas pour le dispositif de blocage.
These devices, not shown, are simple in design and can be multiple:
  • coil, leaf springs for the return device, being limited to very simple devices,
  • inertia counterweight, erasable stop, movable safety pin and flame, possibly shear pin in certain cases for the locking device.

Le positionnement de ces dispositifs est signalé sur les figures.The positioning of these devices is indicated in the figures.

Sur la figure 2A, on a représenté une coupe montrant une amorce percutante 11 associée à un relais 12. La figure 2B montre un comprimé relais constitué d'une capsule 13 renfermant un explosif d'amorçage 14. L'initiateur est immobile et se trouve désigné par le repère 1 à la figure 1.In FIG. 2A, a section has been shown showing a percussive primer 11 associated with a relay 12. FIG. 2B shows a relay tablet consisting of a capsule 13 containing a priming explosive 14. The initiator is stationary and is located designated by the reference 1 in Figure 1.

Sur la figure 3, on a représenté un exemple de rainure pour un projectile du type munition sous-marine. Selon l'invention, cette rainure assure un mouvement combiné translation-rotation tout en permettant un mouvement progressif. La figure 3, représente un exemple de développé de la rampe hélicoïdale, soit la variation de l'angle de rotation α en fonction x en fonction du déplacement D. Les valeurs extrèmes respectives sont de 90° et de 15 mm, mais elles peuvent être modifiées de manière évidente par l'homme de l'art. Dans la première moitié du développé, la courbe présente une première portion ayant un rayon de courbure R₁ de l'ordre 10 mm, suivi d'une seconde portion ayant rayon de courbure R₂ de l'ordre de 8 mm. A mi-course de l'arbre 3, la courbe change de sens selon un rayon R₃ de l'ordre de 8 mm suivi d'une portion finale de rayon R₄ d'environ 10 mm. Le mouvement de l'arbre 3 se fait donc suivant 3 phases de rotation A, B et C dont les valeurs finales respectives sont de 12, 78 et 90° et correspondant aux translations également respectives de 5, 10 et 15 mm.FIG. 3 shows an example of a groove for a projectile of the submarine munition type. According to the invention, this groove provides a combined translation-rotation movement while allowing progressive movement. FIG. 3 represents an example of a development of the helical ramp, that is to say the variation of the angle of rotation α as a function of x as a function of the displacement D. The respective extreme values are 90 ° and 15 mm, but they can be obviously modified by those skilled in the art. In the first half of the bench press, the curve has a first portion having a radius of curvature R₁ of the order of 10 mm, followed by a second portion having a radius of curvature R₂ of the order of 8 mm. Halfway through the shaft 3, the curve changes direction according to a radius R₃ of the order of 8 mm followed by a final portion of radius R₄ of about 10 mm. The movement of the shaft 3 is therefore done according to 3 phases of rotation A, B and C whose respective final values are 12, 78 and 90 ° and corresponding to the translations also respective of 5, 10 and 15 mm.

Le déplacement de l'arbre 3 s'effectue en trois phases :

  • une phase A où l'arbre présente en début de la phase d'alignement (sollicitations maximales), un mouvement de translation prédominant afin de placer l'explosif-relais suivant des axes de moindres contraintes mécaniques,
  • une phase B où on assure un alignement en rotation prédominant, combiné à un alignement en translation à l'issue de l'impact sur la mer ou après, en phase immersion. L'angle d'alignement en rotation peut être tout autre; mais, il est voisin de 90° en général.
  • une phase C où on obtient en fin de phase d'alignement un mouvement de translation prédominant afin de réduire l'inertie mécanique de l'équipage mobile (volet équipé de joints d'étanchéité, frottement du pion de guidage dans la rainure et ressort de rappel) et parfaire l'alignement de la chaîne pyrotechnique (pression d'alignement de faible niveau). L'angle d'alignement en rotation peut être tout autre; mais, il est voisin de 90° en général.
The displacement of the shaft 3 takes place in three phases:
  • a phase A where the shaft exhibits, at the start of the alignment phase (maximum stresses), a predominant translational movement in order to place the explosive-relay along axes of less mechanical stress,
  • a phase B in which a predominant alignment in rotation is ensured, combined with an alignment in translation at the end of the impact on the sea or after, in the immersion phase. The rotational alignment angle can be quite different; but, it is close to 90 ° in general.
  • a phase C where a predominant translational movement is obtained at the end of the alignment phase in order to reduce the mechanical inertia of the moving assembly (shutter fitted with seals, friction of the guide pin in the groove and spring of reminder) and perfect the alignment of the pyrotechnic chain (low level alignment pressure). The rotational alignment angle can be quite different; but, it is close to 90 ° in general.

Le mouvement du volet pyrotechnique, représenté suivant le développé de la rampe hélicoïdale, ne doit pas présenter de rayon de "faible courbure" afin d'éviter tout blocage du volet pyrotechnique (mouvement du pion de guidage dans la rainure) d'où l'intérêt de la rampe hélicoïdale qui répond à l'ensemble de ces critères.The movement of the pyrotechnic flap, shown according to the development of the helical ramp, must not have a radius of "slight curvature" in order to avoid any blockage of the pyrotechnic flap (movement of the guide pin in the groove) from which value of the helical ramp which meets all of these criteria.

Un intérêt de la rampe hélicoïdale est de permettre d'amener quasiment en contact (quelques 1/10 de mm possible), sans risque de sollicitations mécaniques, deux éléments pyrotechniques assurant le fonctionnement correct de la chaîne pyrotechnique au plan détonique.One advantage of the helical ramp is that it makes it possible to bring almost in contact (a few 1/10 of a mm possible), without risk of mechanical stresses, two pyrotechnic elements ensuring the correct operation of the pyrotechnic chain at the detonic level.

On peut également faire varier le pas de la rampe et adapter ainsi la forme générale de la cinématique du mobile, aux spécifications du DSA et aux conditions d'emploi opérationel. Les impératifs et critères peuvent être les mêmes que ceux ci-dessus pour des volets pyrotechniques entraînés par un moteur électrique, se déplaçant par emprunt de gaz ou par tout autre dispositif. Les avantages présentés par la rampe de forme hélicoïdale sont conservés. Le pas de la rampe est alors adapté en fonction des spécifications du DSA et du niveau du phénomêne physique permettant l'alignement de la chaîne pyrotechnique.It is also possible to vary the pitch of the ramp and thus adapt the general shape of the kinematics of the mobile, to the specifications of the DSA and to the conditions of operational use. The requirements and criteria may be the same as above for pyrotechnic shutters driven by an electric motor, moving by borrowing gas or by any other device. The advantages presented by the helical ramp are preserved. The ramp pitch is then adapted according to the specifications of the DSA and the level of the physical phenomenon allowing the alignment of the pyrotechnic chain.

Sur la figure 4, on a représenté un exemple de moyens d'entraînement de l'arbre 3 qui est constitué d'une crémaillère 20 solidaire dudit arbre et d'un pignon 21. L'arbre est maintenu en position de sécurité par le dispositif de blocage 24 (goupille cisaillable par exemple). Ce pignon est entraîné en rotation par le moteur réducteur 22 par l'intermédiaire de l'axe 23. Bien entendu, ce moteur est commandé classiquement pendant la séquence de vol.In Figure 4, there is shown an example of drive means of the shaft 3 which consists of a rack 20 integral with said shaft and a pinion 21. The shaft is held in the safety position by the device locking 24 (shear pin for example). This pinion is rotated by the reduction motor 22 via the axis 23. Of course, this motor is conventionally controlled during the flight sequence.

Non alimenté, le moteur réducteur est libre. Le DSA est en position sécurité par l'action d'un dispositif de rappel (ressort par exemple).Unpowered, the reduction motor is free. The DSA is in the safety position by the action of a return device (spring for example).

L'alimentation électrique du moteur réducteur, générée par la munition suivant un séquentiel déterminé, conditionne l'alignement pyrotechnique, le dispositif de blocage étant rompu. Le dispositif de rappel est alors comprimé par le volet pyrotechnique.The electrical supply of the reduction motor, generated by the ammunition according to a determined sequential, conditions the pyrotechnic alignment, the blocking device being broken. The return device is then compressed by the pyrotechnic component.

En situation dégradée, une coupure d'alimentation ou une fin d'autonomie de la source d'énergie (le moteur étant alors libre) provoque le passage de la position "armée" à la position "non armée" du volet par action du dispositif de rappel.In a degraded situation, a power cut or end of autonomy of the energy source (the motor then being free) causes the passage from the "armed" position to the "unarmed" position of the shutter by action of the device. reminder.

Sur la figure 5, on a représenté un autre exemple de moyens d'entraînement fonctionnant par l'action de la pression hydrostatique. Pour cela, l'arbre 3 est muni à une extrémité d'un piston 25 muni d'un joint d'étanchéité 26 et coulissant dans une chambre 27. Celle-ci communique avec l'extérieur par les trous 28 pratiqués dans le couvercle 29 solidaire du corps de la munition.FIG. 5 shows another example of drive means operating by the action of hydrostatic pressure. For this, the shaft 3 is provided at one end with a piston 25 provided with a seal 26 and sliding in a chamber 27. The latter communicates with the outside through the holes 28 made in the cover 29 secured to the body of the ammunition.

A l'impact sur l'eau, l'arbre (ou le volet pyrotechnique) reste dans sa position "sécurité" grâce à un dispositif de rappel non représenté (ressort par exemple). La pression hydrostatique croissante, exercée sur le piston 25 du volet, conditionne l'alignement du volet pyrotechnique.On impact on water, the tree (or the pyrotechnic flap) remains in its "safety" position thanks to a not shown return device (spring for example). The increasing hydrostatic pressure, exerted on the piston 25 of the shutter, conditions the alignment of the pyrotechnic shutter.

Le dispositif de rappel permet de maîtriser l'instant d'alignement de l'arbre en fonction de la profondeur désirée.The return device makes it possible to control the instant of alignment of the shaft as a function of the desired depth.

Pour ce dispositif, une goupille de sécurité, logée dans le trou 30 munie d'une flamme, peut être placée sur le volet pour les configurations stockage, transport, mise en oeuvre, jusqu'au largage de la munition.For this device, a safety pin, housed in the hole 30 provided with a flame, can be placed on the flap for the storage, transport and implementation configurations, until the ammunition is released.

Sur la figure 6, on a représenté un exemple de moyen d'entraînement de l'arbre 3 applicable à des munitions aériennes et éventuellement sous-marines. Une extrémité de l'arbre 3 est munie d'un piston 31 équipé d'un joint d'étanchéité 32 coulissant dans une chambre 33. La chambre est fermée par un couvercle 34 qui laisse le piston en regard d'un circuit de prélèvement des gaz de combustion.In Figure 6, there is shown an example of means drive shaft 3 applicable to aerial and possibly submarine munitions. One end of the shaft 3 is provided with a piston 31 fitted with a seal 32 sliding in a chamber 33. The chamber is closed by a cover 34 which leaves the piston facing a circuit for taking samples of combustion gases.

En position sécurité, le volet pyrotechnique est maintenu en position "non armée" par le dispositif de blocage 36 non représenté.In the safety position, the pyrotechnic shutter is held in the "unarmed" position by the locking device 36 not shown.

La pression des gaz prélevés du propulseur ou de tous autres sous-ensembles de la munition, par exemple générateur de gaz ou réservoir sous pression..., est amenée par le conduit 35 dans la chambre 33, l'emprunt de gaz s'effectuant suivant un séquentiel déterminé.The pressure of the gases taken from the propellant or from any other sub-assembly of the ammunition, for example gas generator or pressurized tank, etc., is brought by the conduit 35 into the chamber 33, the borrowing of gas taking place according to a determined sequence.

La pression de gaz exercée sur le piston 31 du volet pyrotechnique permet l'alignement de la chaîne pyrotechnique, le dispositif de blocage 36 du volet étant alors levé, effacé ou cisaillé suivant le principe de blocage utilisé.The gas pressure exerted on the piston 31 of the pyrotechnic shutter allows the alignment of the pyrotechnic chain, the blocking device 36 of the shutter then being lifted, erased or sheared according to the blocking principle used.

Le dispositif de rappel permet un retour du volet en position sécurité en cas de situations dégradées en vol.The return device allows the flap to return to the safety position in the event of degraded situations in flight.

Le concept élaboré suivant une rainure (rampe) de forme hélicoïdale (mouvement combiné et progressif de translation - rotation) convient particulièrement à ce type de munition et permet seul de réduire, voire éliminer, les effets néfastes de ces contraintes. Ce concept est applicable à des versions électriques du DSA, le circuit électrique n'étant pas modifié.The concept developed according to a groove (ramp) of helical shape (combined and progressive movement of translation - rotation) is particularly suitable for this type of ammunition and alone makes it possible to reduce, even eliminate, the harmful effects of these constraints. This concept is applicable to electrical versions of the DSA, the electrical circuit not being modified.

Claims (9)

  1. A safety and arming device for missiles, capable of ensuring the alignment of the firing train and able to assume two different positions, a first position in which the firing of the missile is prevented and a second position in which the firing is transmitted, the device being constituted by a means (3) of interrupting the train having a passage (2a) contrived along a diameter perpendicular to the directions of the stresses to which the missile is subjected during the operational phases, and optionally integrating a relay composition (2), the device being characterised in that it is actuated along a helical trajectory of angle α in order to move the passage (2a) from the first position, known as the safety position, in which it is located in a plane substantially orthogonal to the axis of alignment (6) of the firing train, into the second position, known as the arming position, in which it is aligned on the axis of the train (6).
  2. A device according to claim 1, characterised in that the helical movement is a combination of a translational movement and a rotational movement α of approximately 90°.
  3. A device according to claim 2, characterised in that the helical movement of the means is implemented in three successive phases, a first phase A during which a translational movement, in particular, and a small rotation of between approximately 0 and 15% of the angle α is ensured, then, in a phase B, a significant rotational movement of between approximately 15 and 85% inclusive of the angle α, and finally, in a phase C, a translational movement, in particular, and a small rotation as far as the armed position.
  4. A device according to claim 3, characterised in that the means is constituted by a shaft (3) placed perpendicular to the axis (6) of the firing train, the helical movement being obtained with the aid of a guide lug/helical groove (8, 9) assembly.
  5. A device according to claim 4, characterised in that the helical groove (9) is contrived on the shaft (3) along the contour represented in figure 3.
  6. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the means of interruption is provided with means of displaying both the safety and the arming positions.
  7. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the helical movement is controlled by a motor system of the rack and pinion type (21, 20) actuating the means of interruption (3).
  8. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the helical movement is controlled by hydrostatic pressure acting on the means of interruption (3).
  9. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the helical movement is controlled by gas drawn from the level of the propulsion unit of the missile acting on the means of interruption (3).
EP19910401772 1990-06-28 1991-06-27 Safety and arming-means in an ammunition Expired - Lifetime EP0463974B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9008148 1990-06-28
FR9008148A FR2664040B1 (en) 1990-06-28 1990-06-28 SECURITY AND ARMING DEVICE FOR MILITARY LOADS.

Publications (2)

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EP0463974A1 EP0463974A1 (en) 1992-01-02
EP0463974B1 true EP0463974B1 (en) 1995-01-25

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EP19910401772 Expired - Lifetime EP0463974B1 (en) 1990-06-28 1991-06-27 Safety and arming-means in an ammunition

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EP (1) EP0463974B1 (en)
DE (1) DE69106950T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2069240T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2664040B1 (en)

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6431071B1 (en) * 2000-09-18 2002-08-13 Trw Inc. Mems arm fire and safe and arm devices
US7387156B2 (en) 2005-11-14 2008-06-17 Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. Perforating safety system
FR2991447B1 (en) * 2012-05-30 2017-04-07 Mbda France SECURE ARMING SYSTEM FOR EXPLOSIVE LOAD

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB100046A (en) * 1914-04-29 1917-01-04 John Bonner Semple Improvements in Projectiles.
US2520949A (en) * 1946-07-13 1950-09-05 Leo T Meister Fuse for bombs
US2994272A (en) * 1956-03-23 1961-08-01 Henry D Saunderson Water discrimination fuze ball-bearing screw type
FR1216747A (en) * 1959-02-14 1960-04-27 Borletti Spa Time and percussion fuze for anti-aircraft, naval and land fire
US3906861A (en) * 1974-01-21 1975-09-23 Us Navy Fuze sterilization system
FR2296834A1 (en) * 1974-12-31 1976-07-30 Poudres & Explosifs Ste Nale Double-charge pyrotechnic device - has safety device actuated from outside shutting off passage from priming charge
FR2344809A1 (en) * 1976-03-17 1977-10-14 Luchaire Sa Electrically fired safety missile fuse - has percussion charge carrier rotated into armed position and indicator projecting at rear

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE69106950T2 (en) 1995-05-24
DE69106950D1 (en) 1995-03-09
FR2664040A1 (en) 1992-01-03
ES2069240T3 (en) 1995-05-01
EP0463974A1 (en) 1992-01-02
FR2664040B1 (en) 1994-07-22

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