US20070214948A1 - Launch Apparatus - Google Patents
Launch Apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070214948A1 US20070214948A1 US11/579,488 US57948805A US2007214948A1 US 20070214948 A1 US20070214948 A1 US 20070214948A1 US 57948805 A US57948805 A US 57948805A US 2007214948 A1 US2007214948 A1 US 2007214948A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- plate
- launch
- flat element
- hollow seat
- mortar body
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B4/00—Fireworks, i.e. pyrotechnic devices for amusement, display, illumination or signal purposes
- F42B4/02—Fireworks, i.e. pyrotechnic devices for amusement, display, illumination or signal purposes in cartridge form, i.e. shell, propellant and primer
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41A—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS COMMON TO BOTH SMALLARMS AND ORDNANCE, e.g. CANNONS; MOUNTINGS FOR SMALLARMS OR ORDNANCE
- F41A19/00—Firing or trigger mechanisms; Cocking mechanisms
- F41A19/58—Electric firing mechanisms
- F41A19/59—Electromechanical firing mechanisms, i.e. the mechanical striker element being propelled or released by electric means
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41F—APPARATUS FOR LAUNCHING PROJECTILES OR MISSILES FROM BARRELS, e.g. CANNONS; LAUNCHERS FOR ROCKETS OR TORPEDOES; HARPOON GUNS
- F41F1/00—Launching apparatus for projecting projectiles or missiles from barrels, e.g. cannons; Harpoon guns
- F41F1/06—Mortars
Definitions
- the invention relates to a launch apparatus.
- a known launch device comprises one or more pipes or mortar tubes, inside which a respective projectile is placed to be launched.
- Each projectile consists of a shell that contains the material to be launched, of a charge of launch powders made up together with the shell in a wrapping that is normally of paper.
- the launch of a projectile occurs by igniting the charge of launch powders that explode and thus supply the propulsive force for the shell; ignition of the launch powders occurs by means of electric igniters actuated by a command.
- Each electric igniter comprises a tubular body at an end of which a head for ignition by incandescence is provided that is supplied with a pair of wires that extends inside and beyond the tubular body for a suitable length to reach a power plant provided with pairs of connecting terminals.
- the ignition head of the electric igniter is generally inserted directly into the charge of launch powders of a projectile during assembly of the latter or it is connected to a fuse that, in turn, is inserted into the charge of launch powders already during assembly of the projectile.
- the ignition head ignites, directly igniting in the first case the launch powders and in the second case the fuse, which in turn ignites the latter.
- Known launch devices generally comprise a great number of launch tubes that are combined together, whether they are used for example to remove birds from a zone in which they cannot be or to launch fireworks.
- An example of zones in which birds cannot be, are airports because, as is known, if birds are accidentally sucked up inside the engines of aircraft, especially when the latter are subjected to maximum stress during the take-off phase, the engines may suddenly lose power and the aeroplane may risk having to abort the task or even risk falling to the ground.
- the launch devices must be secure, both when they are used and when they are transported.
- the power plant is, in turn, connected to a control apparatus that is manoeuvrable by an operator, by operating which the launches of the projectiles of each launch apparatus are actuated.
- Actuation of the launch devices thus requires the drawing up and positioning of a large number of electric wires.
- a first drawback is that when the launch devices are numerous to cover a vast operating zone from which it is necessary to remove birds, the mass of electric wires to handle and to arrange for the connections between the igniters and the power plants becomes significant and requires, as already said, the intervention or more than one operator assigned to this work: this adversely affects the total costs of use of the known launch devices.
- Another drawback is that if the number of wires necessary for the connections between the electric igniters and the control panels is high, and if the distances to be covered are significant, the cost of the igniters and of the wires becomes noticeable.
- a further drawback is that known launch devices do not enable it to be ascertained with certainty whether the launch of a projectile occurred correctly without proceeding to a direct inspection of the launch device, with serious danger for those performing this operation if a projectile has remained inside a launch device although the launch command has been given.
- Another drawback is that by using known launch devices, it is very difficult to make planned launch sequences because in order to obtain these sequences it is necessary to set up power plants equipped with a large number of pairs of terminals for attaching all the terminal ends of numerous pairs of wires that come from all the igniters of all the launch devices used.
- the object of the invention is to improve the state of the art.
- An object of the invention is to make a launch apparatus that is usable for many uses without requiring any structural adaptation.
- Another object of the invention is to make a launch apparatus that does not require connections by means of wires between projectiles and power plants.
- a further object of the invention is to make a launch apparatus that enables launches to be made according to preset or presettable sequences.
- a further object of the invention is to make a launch apparatus that enables it to be ascertained easily and without risk to operators whether the launch of a projectile has occurred correctly.
- Another object of the invention is to make a launch apparatus that enables it to be remotely actuated, individually or with other models of the same type, using a single control unit, e.g. a computer.
- Another object of the invention is to make a launch apparatus that can operate with projectiles that are actuatable only at the moment of the launch, whilst during their assembly and transport, they can remain substantially inert, considerably increasing the safety of operators.
- an apparatus comprising: loading means for loading projectiles for civilian use, in particular for fireworks displays, to be launched by propellant means, characterised in that communicating with said loading means there is provided housing means for receiving capsule means containing actuating means of said propellant means.
- the apparatus thus enables projectiles intended for civilian and different use to be launched with a single apparatus following, when required, preset launch sequences; the apparatus furthermore enables projectiles to be launched for civilian use to be transported that are substantially inert until the moment of launch.
- the apparatus can furthermore be remote-controlled without cable connections having to be made by electric igniters and connecting power plants.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic longitudinal section view of an apparatus for launching projectiles for civilian use, taken along a plane I-I in FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 2 is a fragmentary view on an enlarged scale of a detail of the launch apparatus
- FIG. 3 is a fragmentary schematic view of an enlarged detail of the launch apparatus in FIG. 1 and in which signal emitting means are visible;
- FIG. 4 is a schematic view from above of the launch apparatus in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 5 is a schematic longitudinal section view of a launch apparatus, taken along a plane I-I of FIG. 4 in a second possible embodiment
- FIG. 6 shows a fragmentary view of a launch apparatus placed in a tilted position
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a launch apparatus in a third possible embodiment
- FIG. 8 is a fragmentary view of a vertical section of the launch device in FIG. 7 , taken along a plane VIII-VIII;
- FIG. 9 is a vertical section view of a fourth possible embodiment of a launch apparatus.
- FIG. 10 is fragmentary transverse section view of an upper portion of the launch apparatus in FIG. 9 , taken along a plane X-X.
- 1 indicates a launch apparatus that comprises a series of mortar bodies 6 for containing projectiles 2 to be launched.
- the latter comprise a shell 308 b and a base in which a volume 308 a of launch powder is contained.
- the mortar bodies 6 define an internal chamber 7 that has smooth walls and which are normally parallel to one another, a bottom 307 and an opposite open first end 107 ; in the proximity of the bottom 307 there is arranged an explosive capsule 9 , known hereinafter as “capsule” 9 for the sake of brevity, which is housed in a hollow seat 40 that, in the embodiment of the launch apparatus illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6 , is obtained in the bottom 307 , in a substantially centred position thereof.
- the capsule 9 is actuatable by means of a striker member 13 that is mounted slidable on the inside of a solenoid 114 ; the latter is positioned axially aligned on the corresponding hollow seat 40 and is supported in this position, as will be better disclosed below.
- an additional layer 308 of launch powder can be placed between the explosive capsule 9 and the projectile 2 .
- the solenoid 114 is actuatable by means of signals coming from a wireless emitter 309 and received by a command element 15 comprising, for example, an electronic card 115 connected to the latter; as visible in FIG. 3 , the emitter 309 can be controlled by a device that is in itself known, such as, for example, computer “C” or a camera “T” or also a photocell “F”, to emit signals that are received by the solenoid 114 , which creates a magnetic field such as to move the striker member 13 to the capsule 9 to hit it and make it explode.
- the striker member 13 when it moves towards the capsule 9 to hit it, axially crosses the solenoid 114 and is contrasted in its movement by an elastic return spring 313 that is interposed between the solenoid 114 and an abutment 314 mounted on the striker member 13 ; in the case illustrated, the spring 313 is wound around an end of the striker member 13 , turned in an opposite direction to the capsule 9 .
- the launch apparatus 1 may be fitted, together with other identical parts, as shown in FIG. 1 , on a box frame 3 that has a substantially parallelepipedon shape and which has side walls 22 and a lower wall 23 and is closed at the top by a plate 30 .
- an intermediate wall 103 on which all the solenoids 114 are constrained, which are in turn connected to the electronic card 115 ; the intermediate wall 103 has passage openings 24 at each of the latter to enable the passage of each respective striker member 13 .
- Each mortar body 6 is constrained on the plate 30 with constraining means that comprises an opening 4 obtained in the plate 30 and equipped, for example, with an internal thread 5 and with a further thread obtained perimeterally on the outside of the mortar body 6 at the bottom 307 in such a way as to make the latter screwable into the respective opening 4 and connected to the plate 30 .
- the constraint means may comprise a bayonet fitting, not illustrated in the drawings because known to those skilled in the art, interposed between the bottom 307 and the respective opening 4 in which a mortar body 6 has to be inserted and fixed.
- the constraint means may comprise a snap fitting, placed between the bottom 307 and the respective opening 4 .
- a flat element 10 designed to run on a lower face 118 of the plate 30 facing the intermediate wall 103 and supported on the latter by brackets 25 .
- This flat element 10 is slidable in relation to the plate 30 and is provided with small through holes 26 and with larger through holes 126 that are alternatively alignable or misalignable with the hollow seats 40 , in such a way as to open or close them partially, or if required, completely: in this case none of the small through holes 26 or large through holes 126 is aligned on the hollow seats 40 .
- the small holes 26 have smaller dimensions than the dimensions of the capsules 9 whereas the large holes 126 have greater dimensions than those of the capsules 9 .
- the through holes 26 have dimensions such as to be noticeably smaller than the capsules 9 , even when they are aligned on the hollow seats 40 , they enable both the support of the capsules 9 on the edges that delimit them, retaining them therein and the passage of the tips of the respective striker members 13 .
- each bottom 307 forms a raised shank 8 that extends to the respective opening 4 ; the shank 8 is threaded on the perimeter with a thread 105 that is screwable into the latter and is axially crossed by a passage 211 .
- the seat 40 in which the capsule 9 is placed is obtained inside the shank 8 , coaxially with the passage 211 .
- Each first end 107 is closable after a projectile 2 to be launched has been inserted through the first end 107 into the respective mortar body 6 , with a removable cap 28 that is dragged away when the projectile 2 is launched.
- each solenoid 114 is connected to a capacitor 29 , which is in turn connected to the electronic card 115 ; by means of the latter nearly all the capacitors 29 are loaded and actuated in such a way as to supply the pulses to the solenoids 114 according to set sequences, for example from a launch execution programme installed in a computer “C”.
- the shank 8 that extends from the bottom 307 , can be screwed into a seat 41 obtained inside a tilted base 321 that protrudes above the plate 30 .
- the opening 4 is obtained directly in the plate 30 .
- the opening 4 has a third open end 104 and a fourth open end 204 , opposite said third end 104 .
- a mortar body 6 is fittable and fixable, for example by means of a thread 5 .
- the mortar body 6 is equipped, on the face of the bottom 307 facing the opening 4 , with the shank 8 threaded externally to screw into the third end 104 of the opening 4 by means of the thread 5 .
- the plate 30 is mounted slidably in the frame 3 on suitable guides 150 and in it there is obtained, as an extension of the opening 4 , but on the opposite side to the plate 30 , substantially corresponding coaxially with the opening 4 , a hollow seat 40 inside which the capsule 9 is insertable.
- the flat element 10 is slidably mounted that, also in this case, can slide in substantial contact with the lower face 118 of the plate 30 and which at the hollow seat 40 , is traversed by a large through hole 126 that, when the flat element 10 is completely inserted into the frame 3 , is substantially aligned to the hollow seat 40 , or slightly out of alignment in relation to the latter.
- the plate 30 like the flat element 10 , is slidable along the frame 3 : when both are slid to the outside of the frame 3 to be extracted, the hollow seat 40 is made accessible from outside to load or substitute the capsule 9 .
- the flat element 10 is in turn slidable in relation to the plate 30 and, as said before, when it is inserted completely into the frame 3 , the hollow seat 40 is slightly misaligned in relation to the large through hole 126 : in this way, a part of the perimeter edge that delimits it, provides a support and retaining lip for the base of the capsule 9 , albeit without completely closing the passage between the hollow seat 40 and the large hole 126 , so as to enable the striker member 13 , when it is actuated, to reach the capsule 9 .
- the element 20 comprises a key 16 that is fittable in corresponding holes 17 and 19 obtained respectively in the plate 30 of the frame 3 and in the flat element 10 , when the holes 17 and 19 are in a configuration aligned vertically on one another.
- the launch apparatus 1 comprises a box-shaped frame 3 , which is formed by an upper wall 3 a traversed by at least a window 203 , by side walls 22 and by a lower wall 23 .
- the upper wall 3 a is removable or simply openable as indicated by the arrow A to access the inside of the box frame 3 .
- an intermediate wall 103 which is parallel to the upper wall 3 a and which supports, substantially centred, a vertical shaft 206 rotatably driven by a motor unit 207 , the latter also is supported on the intermediate wall 103 , for example by means of brackets 208 ; the motor unit 207 is of the type with indexed rotation, according to angles of a preset amplitude.
- the flat element 10 is affected by a series of large through holes 126 that are arranged according to a circular distribution that has a first radius of preset length; in the plate 30 corresponding hollow seats 40 are obtained, these also being arranged according to a circular distribution, having a second radius with a preset length and which is substantially the same as that of the first radius, in such a way as to be able to align the hollow seats 40 on the large through holes 126 : both the latter and the hollow seats 40 are obtained spaced apart at equal distribution distances.
- the intermediate wall 103 supports in an eccentric position, and more precisely at a vertical position of the large through holes 126 and of the hollow seats 40 , a striker member 13 that is actuated with a solenoid 114 ; this is actuatable by means of a control element, indicated by 15 , which pulses reach from an external wireless-type emitting device 309 which can be connected, for example to a camera, or to a remote control, or via cable to a switch or to other devices that are not shown because they are known to those skilled in the art.
- each hollow seat 40 a capsule 9 containing explosive material is insertable; on the top end of each hollow seat 40 there is defined an opening 4 equipped with internal threading 5 in which a shank 8 is screwable that extends raised from a bottom 307 of a corresponding mortar body 6 , which defines, inside itself, an internal cavity 7 that has, as in the previously disclosed embodiments, smooth walls and which is suitable for receiving a projectile 2 to launch that is loaded through a first open end 107 of the mortar body 6 .
- the shank 8 is axially traversed by a gap 221 that connects the internal cavity 7 to the respective hollow seat 40 .
- the flat element 10 being supported on the plate 30 , for example by means of bracket elements 230 , is rotatingly driven simultaneously to the latter by the motor unit 207 : nevertheless, the flat element 10 is also rotatable by a few degrees in relation to the plate 30 , as shown in detail in FIG. 3 , so that the edges of the hollow seats 40 of the flat element 10 provide the capsules 9 with a sort of segment support lip 222 to prevent the latter falling out of the respective hollow seats 40 .
- the operation of the launch apparatus in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6 is as follows: one or more launch apparatuses 1 mounted on respective support frames 3 are located in preset zones to carry out the launches.
- an operator rotates the plate 30 in such a way as to be able to access the inside of the box frame 3 ; on the plate 30 a preset number of mortar bodies 6 is constrained, for example by screwing the shanks 8 into the respective openings 4 .
- the operator slides the flat element 10 along the face 118 , until the larger through holes 126 of the latter are aligned on the first hollow seats 40 : in this position, the operator can insert the explosive capsules 9 into them.
- the operator after completing loading of the capsules 9 into the respective first hollow seats 40 , recloses the plate 30 and, in order to arrange the launch apparatuses 1 for launching, slides the flat element 10 by for example acting on pickup handles provided precisely for the purpose protruding from the latter, in such a way as to align only the small through holes 26 on the first hollow seats 40 .
- the capsules 9 are retained inside the respective first hollow seats 40 as, the small through seats 26 being smaller than the capsules 9 , the latter rest on the edges of the small through holes 26 without traversing them; simultaneously, the passage remains open for the striker members 13 through the small though holes 26 .
- each mortar body 6 the corresponding projectile 2 to be launched through the first end 107 , then reclosing it with the cover 28 .
- a control device is arranged, for example a computer “C”, and activates therewith the remote signal emitter 309 ; these signals are received by the electronic card 115 and from the latter they are transmitted to the single solenoids 114 .
- the striker members 13 are made to perform a capsule 9 percussion stroke by the magnetic fields generated by the solenoids 114 ; the percussion stroke occurs by overcoming the contrast action of the contrast springs 313 .
- a projectile 2 to be launched are such as to require an increase of the propulsive thrust, for example when it is very heavy, it is possible to interpose in the internal chamber 7 , between the projectile 2 and the bottom 307 , a layer 308 of launch powder that is ignited when the corresponding capsule 9 explodes, increasing the action of the launch powders normally inserted inside the projectiles 2 .
- the remote signal emitter 309 in another form of use of the launch apparatus 1 , for example for removing birds, can be a camera “T” which, when it detects the presence of birds in a zone to be protected, automatically actuates the emitter 309 , which in turn actuates one or more of the solenoids 114 , actuating the corresponding striker members 13 and causing the launch of one or more projectiles 2 .
- the camera “T” can be replaced by a photocell “F” or by another device that is in itself known.
- the perimeter walls of the latter can be tilted and converging towards the bottom 307 .
- the capsules 9 are loaded into the respective hollow seats 40 by extracting from the frame 3 both the plate 30 and the flat element 10 .
- the flat element 10 is slid in relation to the plate 30 in such a way as to reciprocally misalign the hollow seats 40 and the large through holes 126 so as to create with the flat element 10 a sort of bottom suitable for supporting the caps 9 inside the respective hollow seats 40 .
- both the plate and the flat element 10 are reinserted inside the frame 3 , maintaining the misalignment until the hollow seats 40 are aligned on the respective striker members 13 .
- the plate 30 and the flat element 10 are locked in this position by reinserting the key 16 in the coaxially aligned holes 17 and 19 .
- a projectile 2 is then placed in the containing chamber 7 and when the solenoid 114 is actuated by the control element 15 , i.e. by the electronic card 115 , for example by a pulse coming from a bird-detection element, the striker member 13 hits the capsule 9 , making it explode.
- the propulsive force produced by the explosion of the capsule 9 is projected through the gap 221 and primes the launch powder usually contained in a projectile 2 , igniting it and activating the thrust that launches the projectile 2 towards the sky.
- the projectile 2 is prepared in such a way as to in turn explode when it reaches a preset height, producing, for example, a loud noise that frightens the birds that are in the zone surrounding the launch device 1 , scattering them.
- the launch powder layer is added to the internal chamber 7 between the projectile 2 and the bottom 307 ; when the capsule 9 is exploded, this ignites the layer 308 of launch powder, which, by exploding, provides an increase in propulsive force beyond what is provided by the launch powder present in a projectile 2 to be launched.
- each mortar body 6 is loaded with projectiles 2 by inserting them into the internal chambers 7 through the first end 107 ; the capsules 9 are loaded by opening the top wall 30 a and unscrewing the threaded knob 223 ; this frees access to the plate 30 and to the flat element 10 supported on it; both are then extracted from the box frame 3 and if necessary the capsules 9 that were already previously fired are first unloaded and subsequently the new capsules 9 are inserted inside the respective hollow seats 40 ; when loading is complete, the plate 30 , which has a circular shape, is rotated in relation to the flat element 10 by an angle of a few degrees such that the edges of the large through holes 126 of the flat element 10 provide a sort of base support plane 222 that retains the capsules 9 inside the respective hollow seats 40 .
- the flat element 10 and the plate 30 are refitted on the shaft 206 and the latter is rotationally locked on the shaft 206 by tightening the screw knob 223 .
- the plate 30 and the flat element 10 are connected together by brackets 230 that enable reciprocal angular rotations of a few degrees.
- the upper closing wall 3 a is then reclosed that has the window 203 that is vertically aligned both on one of the mortar bodies 6 and on the striker member 13 .
- the signal is sent from the latter that actuates the solenoid 114 , which, in turn, actuates the striker member 13 that hits the capsule 9 , making it explode and causing the launch of the projectile 2 through the through opening 203 towards the sky, as disclosed for the previous embodiments of the launch apparatus.
- a further pulse sent to the control means 15 causes the launch of a further projectile 2 ; this sequence is repeated for all the projectiles contained in the mortar bodies 6 .
- the rotation steps of the motor unit 207 are programmable and it is therefore possible to preset the sequence of launches of projectiles 2 , according to specific needs.
- the upper wall 3 a protects from inclement weather the projectiles 2 loaded inside the internal chambers 7 of the respective mortar bodies 6 , except for the projectile 2 that is aligned on the through opening 203 .
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Aiming, Guidance, Guns With A Light Source, Armor, Camouflage, And Targets (AREA)
- Toys (AREA)
- Catching Or Destruction (AREA)
Abstract
The apparatus comprises: a loading device for loading projectiles for civilian use, in particular for fireworks displays, to be launched by propellant compounds, and a housing device communicating with said loading device for receiving a capsule member containing actuating elements of said propellant compounds.
Description
- The invention relates to a launch apparatus.
- In numerous civilian applications devices are used that are suitable for the launch of different types of projectile into the sky.
- These projectiles are constructed for the purpose for which they are to be used and have dimensions that differ from one another: the devices arranged for their launch must, therefore, also have dimensions and mechanical structures that are different from one another and such as to adapt to the type of projectile to be launched. A known launch device comprises one or more pipes or mortar tubes, inside which a respective projectile is placed to be launched.
- Each projectile consists of a shell that contains the material to be launched, of a charge of launch powders made up together with the shell in a wrapping that is normally of paper.
- The launch of a projectile occurs by igniting the charge of launch powders that explode and thus supply the propulsive force for the shell; ignition of the launch powders occurs by means of electric igniters actuated by a command.
- Each electric igniter comprises a tubular body at an end of which a head for ignition by incandescence is provided that is supplied with a pair of wires that extends inside and beyond the tubular body for a suitable length to reach a power plant provided with pairs of connecting terminals.
- The ignition head of the electric igniter is generally inserted directly into the charge of launch powders of a projectile during assembly of the latter or it is connected to a fuse that, in turn, is inserted into the charge of launch powders already during assembly of the projectile.
- When the igniter receives an electric pulse from the command power plant, the ignition head ignites, directly igniting in the first case the launch powders and in the second case the fuse, which in turn ignites the latter.
- Known launch devices generally comprise a great number of launch tubes that are combined together, whether they are used for example to remove birds from a zone in which they cannot be or to launch fireworks.
- An example of zones in which birds cannot be, are airports because, as is known, if birds are accidentally sucked up inside the engines of aircraft, especially when the latter are subjected to maximum stress during the take-off phase, the engines may suddenly lose power and the aeroplane may risk having to abort the task or even risk falling to the ground.
- For this reason, removal of the birds is currently achieved by arranging along the runways a great number of launch devices, each one of which comprises a significant number of launch pipes inside which projectiles are placed that have shells loaded with explosive materials so that, when they are launched into the sky, the igniting launch powders raise the shells to a preset height and then explode, detonated by a fuse provided for that purpose, producing a loud noise or a coloured and very bright cloud of smoke: in both cases the birds are frightened and are made to move away from the area.
- Owing to the natural instinct of the birds to return to their previously chosen haunts as soon as the brief effect of the detonation has ceased, or the cloud of smoke has scattered, to keep these zones clear, it is indispensable to launch projectiles at a certain frequency, cyclically reloading the launch devices.
- When the latter are used in the pyrotechnic sector, they must be able both to launch a high number of projectiles to obtain the desired effects and to make the launches according to preset time sequences and intervals, for example to follow the rhythm of a preset musical accompaniment that accompanies a fireworks show.
- Furthermore, the launch devices must be secure, both when they are used and when they are transported.
- Currently, the preparation, positioning and activation of the launch devices require the intervention of a considerable number of operators who have to load the projectiles into the launch devices and connect the latter with the power plants, which are provided with terminals connecting each pair of wires to each electric igniter.
- The power plant is, in turn, connected to a control apparatus that is manoeuvrable by an operator, by operating which the launches of the projectiles of each launch apparatus are actuated.
- Actuation of the launch devices thus requires the drawing up and positioning of a large number of electric wires.
- This state of the art has certain drawbacks.
- A first drawback is that when the launch devices are numerous to cover a vast operating zone from which it is necessary to remove birds, the mass of electric wires to handle and to arrange for the connections between the igniters and the power plants becomes significant and requires, as already said, the intervention or more than one operator assigned to this work: this adversely affects the total costs of use of the known launch devices.
- Another drawback is that the launch devices are generally placed over long distances, reaching, in the case of take-off and landing runways of airports, several kilometres: the lengths of connecting wires are therefore proportionally great and their positioning requires fatiguing and repeated displacements of operators between the power plants and the different launch devices.
- Another drawback is that if the number of wires necessary for the connections between the electric igniters and the control panels is high, and if the distances to be covered are significant, the cost of the igniters and of the wires becomes noticeable.
- Another drawback is that known launch devices are constructed, as said previously, with specific structural features, that are determined by the uses for which they are intended and are not able to launch projectiles that are different from those for which they were constructed.
- For example, with a launch device designed to launch projectiles arranged to dissuade birds, it is not possible to launch projectiles for pyrotechnical use or for launching confetti and vice versa.
- A further drawback is that known launch devices do not enable it to be ascertained with certainty whether the launch of a projectile occurred correctly without proceeding to a direct inspection of the launch device, with serious danger for those performing this operation if a projectile has remained inside a launch device although the launch command has been given.
- Another drawback is that by using known launch devices, it is very difficult to make planned launch sequences because in order to obtain these sequences it is necessary to set up power plants equipped with a large number of pairs of terminals for attaching all the terminal ends of numerous pairs of wires that come from all the igniters of all the launch devices used.
- Another drawback is that in order to be able to be launched with known launch devices, the projectiles have to be prepared in a complete manner and already ready to be launched, i.e. with the electric igniters or with the fuses connected to the electric igniters already inserted in the launch charges of the projectiles; therefore, transport of the latter from the factories to the places of use is very dangerous because the electric igniters may sometimes, in the presence of particular climatic factors, spontaneously ignite, causing sudden and devastating explosions that cause the demolition of structures and the injury and death of operators.
- The object of the invention is to improve the state of the art. An object of the invention is to make a launch apparatus that is usable for many uses without requiring any structural adaptation.
- Another object of the invention is to make a launch apparatus that does not require connections by means of wires between projectiles and power plants.
- A further object of the invention is to make a launch apparatus that enables launches to be made according to preset or presettable sequences.
- A further object of the invention is to make a launch apparatus that enables it to be ascertained easily and without risk to operators whether the launch of a projectile has occurred correctly.
- Another object of the invention is to make a launch apparatus that enables it to be remotely actuated, individually or with other models of the same type, using a single control unit, e.g. a computer.
- Another object of the invention is to make a launch apparatus that can operate with projectiles that are actuatable only at the moment of the launch, whilst during their assembly and transport, they can remain substantially inert, considerably increasing the safety of operators.
- According to an aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus, comprising: loading means for loading projectiles for civilian use, in particular for fireworks displays, to be launched by propellant means, characterised in that communicating with said loading means there is provided housing means for receiving capsule means containing actuating means of said propellant means.
- The apparatus thus enables projectiles intended for civilian and different use to be launched with a single apparatus following, when required, preset launch sequences; the apparatus furthermore enables projectiles to be launched for civilian use to be transported that are substantially inert until the moment of launch.
- The apparatus can furthermore be remote-controlled without cable connections having to be made by electric igniters and connecting power plants.
- Further features and advantages will become clearer from the disclosure of an embodiment of an apparatus, illustrated by way of non-limitative example, in the attached tables of drawings in which:
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FIG. 1 is a schematic longitudinal section view of an apparatus for launching projectiles for civilian use, taken along a plane I-I inFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 2 is a fragmentary view on an enlarged scale of a detail of the launch apparatus; -
FIG. 3 is a fragmentary schematic view of an enlarged detail of the launch apparatus inFIG. 1 and in which signal emitting means are visible; -
FIG. 4 is a schematic view from above of the launch apparatus inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 5 is a schematic longitudinal section view of a launch apparatus, taken along a plane I-I ofFIG. 4 in a second possible embodiment; -
FIG. 6 shows a fragmentary view of a launch apparatus placed in a tilted position; -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a launch apparatus in a third possible embodiment; -
FIG. 8 is a fragmentary view of a vertical section of the launch device inFIG. 7 , taken along a plane VIII-VIII; -
FIG. 9 is a vertical section view of a fourth possible embodiment of a launch apparatus; -
FIG. 10 is fragmentary transverse section view of an upper portion of the launch apparatus inFIG. 9 , taken along a plane X-X. - With particular reference to
FIG. 1, 1 indicates a launch apparatus that comprises a series ofmortar bodies 6 for containingprojectiles 2 to be launched. - The latter comprise a
shell 308 b and a base in which avolume 308 a of launch powder is contained. - The
mortar bodies 6 define aninternal chamber 7 that has smooth walls and which are normally parallel to one another, abottom 307 and an opposite openfirst end 107; in the proximity of thebottom 307 there is arranged anexplosive capsule 9, known hereinafter as “capsule” 9 for the sake of brevity, which is housed in ahollow seat 40 that, in the embodiment of the launch apparatus illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6, is obtained in thebottom 307, in a substantially centred position thereof. - The
capsule 9 is actuatable by means of astriker member 13 that is mounted slidable on the inside of asolenoid 114; the latter is positioned axially aligned on the correspondinghollow seat 40 and is supported in this position, as will be better disclosed below. - If required by particular launch needs, also an
additional layer 308 of launch powder can be placed between theexplosive capsule 9 and theprojectile 2. - The
solenoid 114 is actuatable by means of signals coming from awireless emitter 309 and received by acommand element 15 comprising, for example, anelectronic card 115 connected to the latter; as visible inFIG. 3 , theemitter 309 can be controlled by a device that is in itself known, such as, for example, computer “C” or a camera “T” or also a photocell “F”, to emit signals that are received by thesolenoid 114, which creates a magnetic field such as to move thestriker member 13 to thecapsule 9 to hit it and make it explode. - As is also visible in
FIG. 3 , thestriker member 13, when it moves towards thecapsule 9 to hit it, axially crosses thesolenoid 114 and is contrasted in its movement by anelastic return spring 313 that is interposed between thesolenoid 114 and anabutment 314 mounted on thestriker member 13; in the case illustrated, thespring 313 is wound around an end of thestriker member 13, turned in an opposite direction to thecapsule 9. - The
launch apparatus 1 may be fitted, together with other identical parts, as shown inFIG. 1 , on abox frame 3 that has a substantially parallelepipedon shape and which hasside walls 22 and alower wall 23 and is closed at the top by aplate 30. - Between the
plate 30 and thelower wall 23 there is arranged anintermediate wall 103 on which all thesolenoids 114 are constrained, which are in turn connected to theelectronic card 115; theintermediate wall 103 has passage openings 24 at each of the latter to enable the passage of eachrespective striker member 13. - Each
mortar body 6 is constrained on theplate 30 with constraining means that comprises anopening 4 obtained in theplate 30 and equipped, for example, with aninternal thread 5 and with a further thread obtained perimeterally on the outside of themortar body 6 at thebottom 307 in such a way as to make the latter screwable into therespective opening 4 and connected to theplate 30. - According to an alternative embodiment, the constraint means may comprise a bayonet fitting, not illustrated in the drawings because known to those skilled in the art, interposed between the
bottom 307 and therespective opening 4 in which amortar body 6 has to be inserted and fixed. - According to a further embodiment, which is also not shown because known to those skilled in the art, the constraint means may comprise a snap fitting, placed between the
bottom 307 and therespective opening 4. - Between the
plate 30 and theintermediate wall 103 there is provided aflat element 10 designed to run on alower face 118 of theplate 30 facing theintermediate wall 103 and supported on the latter by brackets 25. - This
flat element 10 is slidable in relation to theplate 30 and is provided with small throughholes 26 and with larger throughholes 126 that are alternatively alignable or misalignable with thehollow seats 40, in such a way as to open or close them partially, or if required, completely: in this case none of the small throughholes 26 or large throughholes 126 is aligned on thehollow seats 40. - The
small holes 26 have smaller dimensions than the dimensions of thecapsules 9 whereas thelarge holes 126 have greater dimensions than those of thecapsules 9. - As the through
holes 26 have dimensions such as to be noticeably smaller than thecapsules 9, even when they are aligned on thehollow seats 40, they enable both the support of thecapsules 9 on the edges that delimit them, retaining them therein and the passage of the tips of therespective striker members 13. - The
plate 30 is hinged withhinges 27 on one of theside walls 22 of thebox frame 3 to enable its rotation and therefore access to the inside of the latter for the operations of loading of thecapsule 9 into the respectivehollow seats 40. According to another embodiment of thelaunch device 1, illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2 , each bottom 307 forms a raisedshank 8 that extends to therespective opening 4; theshank 8 is threaded on the perimeter with athread 105 that is screwable into the latter and is axially crossed by a passage 211. - In this case, the
seat 40 in which thecapsule 9 is placed is obtained inside theshank 8, coaxially with the passage 211. Eachfirst end 107 is closable after a projectile 2 to be launched has been inserted through thefirst end 107 into therespective mortar body 6, with aremovable cap 28 that is dragged away when theprojectile 2 is launched. - According to the embodiment of the
launch apparatus 1 illustrated inFIG. 1 , eachsolenoid 114 is connected to acapacitor 29, which is in turn connected to theelectronic card 115; by means of the latter nearly all thecapacitors 29 are loaded and actuated in such a way as to supply the pulses to thesolenoids 114 according to set sequences, for example from a launch execution programme installed in a computer “C”. According to a further embodiment of thelaunch apparatus 1 illustrated inFIG. 6 , which is usable to launch in tilted directions theprojectiles 2 to be launched, theshank 8 that extends from the bottom 307, can be screwed into a seat 41 obtained inside a tiltedbase 321 that protrudes above theplate 30. - In the embodiment of the
launch apparatus 1 illustrated inFIG. 7 , theopening 4 is obtained directly in theplate 30. Theopening 4 has a thirdopen end 104 and a fourthopen end 204, opposite saidthird end 104. - On the third
open end 104, amortar body 6 is fittable and fixable, for example by means of athread 5. - The
mortar body 6 is equipped, on the face of the bottom 307 facing theopening 4, with theshank 8 threaded externally to screw into thethird end 104 of theopening 4 by means of thethread 5. - In the embodiment of the launch apparatus illustrated in
FIG. 7 , theplate 30 is mounted slidably in theframe 3 onsuitable guides 150 and in it there is obtained, as an extension of theopening 4, but on the opposite side to theplate 30, substantially corresponding coaxially with theopening 4, ahollow seat 40 inside which thecapsule 9 is insertable. - Immediately below the
plate 30, theflat element 10 is slidably mounted that, also in this case, can slide in substantial contact with thelower face 118 of theplate 30 and which at thehollow seat 40, is traversed by a large throughhole 126 that, when theflat element 10 is completely inserted into theframe 3, is substantially aligned to thehollow seat 40, or slightly out of alignment in relation to the latter. - Also the
plate 30, like theflat element 10, is slidable along the frame 3: when both are slid to the outside of theframe 3 to be extracted, thehollow seat 40 is made accessible from outside to load or substitute thecapsule 9. - The
flat element 10 is in turn slidable in relation to theplate 30 and, as said before, when it is inserted completely into theframe 3, thehollow seat 40 is slightly misaligned in relation to the large through hole 126: in this way, a part of the perimeter edge that delimits it, provides a support and retaining lip for the base of thecapsule 9, albeit without completely closing the passage between thehollow seat 40 and thelarge hole 126, so as to enable thestriker member 13, when it is actuated, to reach thecapsule 9. - Between the
plate 30 and theflat element 10 there is provided anelement 20 for locking reciprocal sliding. - The
element 20 comprises a key 16 that is fittable in correspondingholes plate 30 of theframe 3 and in theflat element 10, when theholes - In another embodiment of the
launch apparatus 1 illustrated inFIGS. 9 and 10 , thelaunch apparatus 1 comprises a box-shapedframe 3, which is formed by anupper wall 3 a traversed by at least awindow 203, byside walls 22 and by alower wall 23. Theupper wall 3 a is removable or simply openable as indicated by the arrow A to access the inside of thebox frame 3. - Inside the latter there is mounted on
supports 205 anintermediate wall 103, which is parallel to theupper wall 3 a and which supports, substantially centred, avertical shaft 206 rotatably driven by amotor unit 207, the latter also is supported on theintermediate wall 103, for example by means ofbrackets 208; themotor unit 207 is of the type with indexed rotation, according to angles of a preset amplitude. - Onto the
shaft 206 there is fitted with gap and in such a way as to pass through a central opening 18 acircular plate 30 that is rotatingly supported on aflat element 10, which is also circular in shape, parallel to it, that is splined on theshaft 206 and which is fixed to it by means of a screwedknob 223 so as to rotate with it. - The
flat element 10 is affected by a series of large throughholes 126 that are arranged according to a circular distribution that has a first radius of preset length; in theplate 30 correspondinghollow seats 40 are obtained, these also being arranged according to a circular distribution, having a second radius with a preset length and which is substantially the same as that of the first radius, in such a way as to be able to align thehollow seats 40 on the large through holes 126: both the latter and thehollow seats 40 are obtained spaced apart at equal distribution distances. - The
intermediate wall 103 supports in an eccentric position, and more precisely at a vertical position of the large throughholes 126 and of thehollow seats 40, astriker member 13 that is actuated with asolenoid 114; this is actuatable by means of a control element, indicated by 15, which pulses reach from an external wireless-type emitting device 309 which can be connected, for example to a camera, or to a remote control, or via cable to a switch or to other devices that are not shown because they are known to those skilled in the art. - In each hollow seat 40 a
capsule 9 containing explosive material is insertable; on the top end of eachhollow seat 40 there is defined anopening 4 equipped withinternal threading 5 in which ashank 8 is screwable that extends raised from abottom 307 of acorresponding mortar body 6, which defines, inside itself, aninternal cavity 7 that has, as in the previously disclosed embodiments, smooth walls and which is suitable for receiving a projectile 2 to launch that is loaded through a firstopen end 107 of themortar body 6. - The
shank 8 is axially traversed by agap 221 that connects theinternal cavity 7 to the respectivehollow seat 40. - It should be noted that the
flat element 10, being supported on theplate 30, for example by means ofbracket elements 230, is rotatingly driven simultaneously to the latter by the motor unit 207: nevertheless, theflat element 10 is also rotatable by a few degrees in relation to theplate 30, as shown in detail inFIG. 3 , so that the edges of thehollow seats 40 of theflat element 10 provide thecapsules 9 with a sort ofsegment support lip 222 to prevent the latter falling out of the respectivehollow seats 40. - The operation of the launch apparatus in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6 is as follows: one or
more launch apparatuses 1 mounted on respective support frames 3 are located in preset zones to carry out the launches. - In the case of pyrotechnic use, it is important to note that the projectiles. 2 to be launched can be conveyed before the launches with relative security, it not being necessary to make assemble them providing conventional electric igniters already mounted inside them: in fact, the explosive action is provided by the
caps 9 only when they are hit by therespective striker members 13. - In order to load the
explosive capsules 9 into the respective firsthollow seats 40, an operator rotates theplate 30 in such a way as to be able to access the inside of thebox frame 3; on the plate 30 a preset number ofmortar bodies 6 is constrained, for example by screwing theshanks 8 into therespective openings 4. - When the
plate 30 is rotated in relation to theframe 3, the operator slides theflat element 10 along theface 118, until the larger throughholes 126 of the latter are aligned on the first hollow seats 40: in this position, the operator can insert theexplosive capsules 9 into them. - He then slides the
flat element 10 in such a way as to align the smaller throughholes 26 on the firsthollow seats 40 or, if the launches do not have to be carried out within a short time and it is therefore necessary to keep both thelaunch apparatuses 1 secure, slides theflat element 10 in such a way as to keep both the small throughholes 26 and the large throughholes 126 misaligned in relation to the firsthollow seats 40, i.e. in such a way that the full body of theflat element 10 shuts it, thus preventing accidental percussion actions of thestriker members 13 on thecapsules 9. - The operator, after completing loading of the
capsules 9 into the respective firsthollow seats 40, recloses theplate 30 and, in order to arrange thelaunch apparatuses 1 for launching, slides theflat element 10 by for example acting on pickup handles provided precisely for the purpose protruding from the latter, in such a way as to align only the small throughholes 26 on the firsthollow seats 40. - In this configuration, the
capsules 9 are retained inside the respective firsthollow seats 40 as, the small throughseats 26 being smaller than thecapsules 9, the latter rest on the edges of the small throughholes 26 without traversing them; simultaneously, the passage remains open for thestriker members 13 through the small though holes 26. - The operator then proceeds to place inside each
mortar body 6 the corresponding projectile 2 to be launched through thefirst end 107, then reclosing it with thecover 28. - The operator can then move away from the
launch apparatuses 1 that are ready to launch theprojectiles 2 and goes to a safety zone far from them, in which a control device is arranged, for example a computer “C”, and activates therewith theremote signal emitter 309; these signals are received by theelectronic card 115 and from the latter they are transmitted to thesingle solenoids 114. - The
striker members 13 are made to perform acapsule 9 percussion stroke by the magnetic fields generated by thesolenoids 114; the percussion stroke occurs by overcoming the contrast action of the contrast springs 313. - When a
striker member 13 knocks against acorresponding capsule 9, saidstriker member 13 causes saidcapsule 9 to explode without any connection with wires being necessary; the explosion ignites the propellant powders that are normally inserted inside the projectile 2 to be launched during their assembly; the corresponding projectile is then launched to the sky through thefirst end 107, dragging with it therespective cover 28. - The absence of the latter from a
first end 107 of amortar body 6 thus clearly indicates to the operators, and without the need for them to move dangerously near it, that a launch has occurred correctly and that there is nounexploded projectile 2 in it. - It is to be pointed out that it is possible to programme the signals to the
different solenoids 114 that make up one ormore launch apparatuses 1, in such a way that they actuate launches with preset sequences in order to be able to follow programmed patterns or schedules. - If the features of a projectile 2 to be launched are such as to require an increase of the propulsive thrust, for example when it is very heavy, it is possible to interpose in the
internal chamber 7, between the projectile 2 and the bottom 307, alayer 308 of launch powder that is ignited when thecorresponding capsule 9 explodes, increasing the action of the launch powders normally inserted inside theprojectiles 2. - The
remote signal emitter 309, in another form of use of thelaunch apparatus 1, for example for removing birds, can be a camera “T” which, when it detects the presence of birds in a zone to be protected, automatically actuates theemitter 309, which in turn actuates one or more of thesolenoids 114, actuating the correspondingstriker members 13 and causing the launch of one ormore projectiles 2. - Similarly, the camera “T” can be replaced by a photocell “F” or by another device that is in itself known.
- It should be noted that in order to arrange and maintain in a correct position the
projectiles 2 to be launched in theinternal chambers 7, the perimeter walls of the latter can be tilted and converging towards the bottom 307. - The operation of the launch apparatus in the possible embodiment illustrated in
FIGS. 7 and 8 is as follows: thecapsules 9 are loaded into the respectivehollow seats 40 by extracting from theframe 3 both theplate 30 and theflat element 10. - In order to load the
capsules 9 without their falling, theflat element 10 is slid in relation to theplate 30 in such a way as to reciprocally misalign thehollow seats 40 and the large throughholes 126 so as to create with the flat element 10 a sort of bottom suitable for supporting thecaps 9 inside the respectivehollow seats 40. - After loading of the
capsules 9 has been completed, both the plate and theflat element 10 are reinserted inside theframe 3, maintaining the misalignment until thehollow seats 40 are aligned on therespective striker members 13. - The
plate 30 and theflat element 10 are locked in this position by reinserting the key 16 in the coaxially alignedholes - A
projectile 2 is then placed in the containingchamber 7 and when thesolenoid 114 is actuated by thecontrol element 15, i.e. by theelectronic card 115, for example by a pulse coming from a bird-detection element, thestriker member 13 hits thecapsule 9, making it explode. - The propulsive force produced by the explosion of the
capsule 9 is projected through thegap 221 and primes the launch powder usually contained in aprojectile 2, igniting it and activating the thrust that launches the projectile 2 towards the sky. - The
projectile 2 is prepared in such a way as to in turn explode when it reaches a preset height, producing, for example, a loud noise that frightens the birds that are in the zone surrounding thelaunch device 1, scattering them. - Also in this embodiment, if the sole propulsive force supplied by the
capsule 9 is not sufficient to launch a particularlyheavy projectile 2, the launch powder layer is added to theinternal chamber 7 between the projectile 2 and the bottom 307; when thecapsule 9 is exploded, this ignites thelayer 308 of launch powder, which, by exploding, provides an increase in propulsive force beyond what is provided by the launch powder present in a projectile 2 to be launched. - Also in this embodiment of the
launch apparatus 1 it is possible to programme the succession of launches ofprojectiles 2, activating a preset sequence of pulses sent to thevarious solenoids 114. - Operation of the embodiment of the
launch apparatus 1 illustrated inFIGS. 9 and 10 is as follows: eachmortar body 6 is loaded withprojectiles 2 by inserting them into theinternal chambers 7 through thefirst end 107; thecapsules 9 are loaded by opening the top wall 30 a and unscrewing the threadedknob 223; this frees access to theplate 30 and to theflat element 10 supported on it; both are then extracted from thebox frame 3 and if necessary thecapsules 9 that were already previously fired are first unloaded and subsequently thenew capsules 9 are inserted inside the respectivehollow seats 40; when loading is complete, theplate 30, which has a circular shape, is rotated in relation to theflat element 10 by an angle of a few degrees such that the edges of the large throughholes 126 of theflat element 10 provide a sort ofbase support plane 222 that retains thecapsules 9 inside the respectivehollow seats 40. - The
flat element 10 and theplate 30 are refitted on theshaft 206 and the latter is rotationally locked on theshaft 206 by tightening thescrew knob 223. - The
plate 30 and theflat element 10 are connected together bybrackets 230 that enable reciprocal angular rotations of a few degrees. - The
upper closing wall 3 a is then reclosed that has thewindow 203 that is vertically aligned both on one of themortar bodies 6 and on thestriker member 13. - When a pulse is sent to the control means 15, the signal is sent from the latter that actuates the
solenoid 114, which, in turn, actuates thestriker member 13 that hits thecapsule 9, making it explode and causing the launch of the projectile 2 through the throughopening 203 towards the sky, as disclosed for the previous embodiments of the launch apparatus. - By actuating the
motor unit 207, which is of the type with controlled motion, for example indexed rotating, this makes theplate 30 rotate by an angle suitable for carrying anew mortar body 6 that is adjacent or at least different from the one located at theopening 203 and at thestriker member 13, from which the preceding projectile was launched. - A further pulse sent to the control means 15 causes the launch of a
further projectile 2; this sequence is repeated for all the projectiles contained in themortar bodies 6. - The rotation steps of the
motor unit 207 are programmable and it is therefore possible to preset the sequence of launches ofprojectiles 2, according to specific needs. - Furthermore, if the
mortar bodies 6 are devoid ofcovers 28, theupper wall 3 a protects from inclement weather theprojectiles 2 loaded inside theinternal chambers 7 of therespective mortar bodies 6, except for the projectile 2 that is aligned on the throughopening 203.
Claims (58)
1-51. (canceled)
52. Apparatus, comprising: a loading device for loading projectiles for civilian use, in particular for firework displays, to be launched by propellant compounds, characterised in that a housing device communicating with said loading device for receiving a capsule member containing actuating elements of said propellant compounds, it is provided for.
53. Apparatus according to claim 52 , wherein said loading device defines a bottom and an opposite first end.
54. Launch apparatus according to claim 52 , or 53, wherein said housing device comprises at least a first hollow seat.
55. Apparatus according to claim 54 , wherein there is provided a striker device of said capsule member placed at said first hollow seat.
56. Apparatus according to claim 52 , wherein said actuating elements further comprise a layer of explosive power interposed between said capsule member and said projectiles to be launched.
57. Apparatus according to claim 55 , wherein said actuating elements further comprise a layer of explosive power interposed between said capsule member and said projectiles to be launched.
58. Apparatus according to claim 57 , wherein said striker device comprises: pin members slidably driven in an alternative manner by a wireless actuating device, between an active percussion stroke of said capsule member and a return stroke.
59. Apparatus according to claim 58 , wherein an electromagnetic device arranged to receive actuating signals, receiving elements of actuating signals connected to said electromagnetic device and actuated by said pin members, are provided for.
60. Apparatus according to claim 59 , wherein said electromagnetic device comprises at least a solenoid arranged to create magnetic fields such as to slide said pin members.
61. Apparatus according to claim 60 , wherein said at least one solenoid is positioned at said loading device in such a way that said pin members and said first hollow seat are aligned on one another.
62. Apparatus according to claim 61 , wherein said electromagnetic device further comprises a capacitor element interposed between said receiving elements and said at least one solenoid.
63. Apparatus according to claim 57 , wherein said pin members is slidably driven in said active contrast percussion stroke by elastic return device.
64. Apparatus according to claim 59 , wherein said receiving elements are arranged to receive actuating signals from an emitting device of actuating signals.
65. Apparatus according to claim 64 , wherein said emitting device is chosen from a computer device, a camera device, an optical device, a magnetic device, an acoustic device, a luminous device, a radio device, a timer device, a radar device.
66. Apparatus according to claim 64 , wherein said emitting device is arranged to emit signals according to programmed sequences and/or frequencies.
67. Apparatus according to claim 65 , wherein said emitting device is arranged to emit signals according to programmed sequences and/or frequencies.
68. Apparatus according to claim 52 , wherein said loading device comprises at least a mortar body.
69. Apparatus according to claim 68 , wherein said at least a mortar body is supported by a support frame element.
70. Apparatus according to claim 69 , wherein said support frame element comprises a box frame.
71. Apparatus according to claim 70 , wherein said box frame element has a substantially parallelepipedon shape and comprises side walls, a lower wall and an upper plate which is parallel to said lower wall.
72. Apparatus according to claim 59 , wherein said loading device comprises at least a mortar body supported by a box frame having a substantially parallelepipedon shape and comprising side walls, a lower wall and an upper plate which is parallel to said lower wall.
73. Apparatus according to claim 71 , wherein said at least one mortar body is constrained with a constraining device on said plate and extends from the latter outwards.
74. Apparatus according to claim 68 , wherein said at least one mortar body has a central longitudinal axis that is orthogonal to said plate.
75. Apparatus according to claim 71 , wherein said at least one mortar body has a central longitudinal axis arranged obliquely to said plate.
76. Apparatus according to claim 73 , wherein said constraining device comprises an opening obtained in said plate; a first thread obtained on internal faces of said opening; a second thread obtained outside said bottom and screwable into said first thread.
77. Apparatus according to claim 76 , wherein said constraining device comprises a bayonet coupling interposed between said bottom and said opening.
78. Apparatus according to claim 53 , wherein said bottom forms a protruding shank, facing said opening, equipped with said second external thread that is screwable into the latter.
79. Apparatus according to claim 76 , wherein said bottom forms a protruding shank, facing said opening, equipped with said second external thread that is screwable into the latter.
80. Apparatus according to claim 72 , wherein between said plate and said lower wall there is arranged a parallel intermediate wall arranged to support said electromagnetic device.
81. Apparatus according to claim 58 , wherein said pin members are substantially coaxial with said first hollow seat.
82. Apparatus according to claim 80 , wherein between said plate and said intermediate wall there is provided a closing and opening element of said first hollow seat.
83. Apparatus according to claim 82 , wherein said closing and opening element comprises a flat element slidably supported adjacent to a lower face of said plate facing inside said box frame and equipped with at least one small through hole and a large through hole alternatively alignable or misalignable on said first hollow seat.
84. Apparatus according to claim 83 , wherein said small through hole is smaller than said capsule member and said large through hole is larger than said capsule member.
85. Apparatus according to claim 71 , wherein said plate is hinged on at least one of said side walls to rotate to outside of said box frame.
86. Apparatus according to claim 53 wherein said first end is closed with a removable cap when a projectile to be launched is loaded into said loading device.
87. Apparatus according to claim 53 , wherein said loading device comprises at least a mortar body.
88. Apparatus according to claim 68 , wherein said at least one mortar body is internally provided with an internal chamber.
89. Apparatus according to claim 87 , wherein said at least one mortar body is internally provided with an internal chamber.
90. Apparatus according to claim 89 , wherein said internal chamber has perimeter walls tilted and diverging towards said first end.
91. Apparatus according to claim 88 wherein said internal chamber has smooth internal walls.
92. Apparatus according to claim 54 wherein said first hollow seat is obtained in a centred position in said bottom.
93. Apparatus according to claim 72 wherein said first hollow seat is obtained in said plate.
94. Apparatus according to claim 71 , wherein between said plate and a flat element a locking element of the reciprocal sliding is provided.
95. Apparatus according to claim 94 , wherein said locking element comprises: through holes obtained respectively in said top wall and in said flat element, a key element insertable in said through holes in a configuration aligned on one another.
96. Apparatus according to claim 83 , wherein said pin members traverse said small through holes when these are substantially aligned on said first hollow seat.
97. Apparatus according to claim 94 , wherein said plate and said flat element are mounted on a motor unit arranged to rotate them.
98. Apparatus according to claim 94 wherein said plate and said flat element are disc-shaped.
99. Apparatus according to claim 97 , wherein said motor unit comprises a motor-driven shaft element protruding from said motor unit facing said plate and arranged to support at least said flat element splined thereupon.
100. Apparatus according to claim 94 , wherein said flat element has large through holes arranged according to at least a first circumference distribution having a first radius.
101. Apparatus according to claim 100 , wherein said plate has a hollow seat element arranged according to a second circumference distribution having a second radius substantially coinciding with said first radius and arranged to contain said capsule means.
102. Apparatus according to claim 84 , wherein said plate and said flat element are reciprocally connected by a connecting device.
103. Apparatus according to claim 102 , wherein said connecting device is arranged to enable angular rotations of a few degrees between said plate and said flat element.
104. Apparatus according to any claim 99 , wherein said plate, said flat element, said motor unit, said shaft element are housed inside said box frame.
105. Apparatus according to claim 104 , wherein said box frame has an upper closing wall arranged parallel to said plate.
106. Apparatus according to claim 105 , wherein said closing wall has at least one window alignable in a manner that is substantially coaxial with at least an internal chamber of a mortar body.
107. Apparatus according to claim 97 , wherein said motor unit is of the type with controlled drive for alternatively aligning mortar bodies with said window according to subsequent or programmed rotation steps.
108. Apparatus according to claim 106 , wherein said solenoid is supported by a support device on said intermediate wall in a position aligned on said window.
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
ITMO20040105 ITMO20040105A1 (en) | 2004-05-04 | 2004-05-04 | LAUNCH APPARATUS |
ITMO2004A000105 | 2004-05-04 | ||
ITMO2005A000107 | 2005-05-02 | ||
ITMO20050107 ITMO20050107A1 (en) | 2005-05-02 | 2005-05-02 | LAUNCH SYSTEM. |
PCT/IB2005/001219 WO2005106379A1 (en) | 2004-05-04 | 2005-05-04 | Launch apparatus |
Publications (1)
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US20070214948A1 true US20070214948A1 (en) | 2007-09-20 |
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Family Applications (1)
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US11/579,488 Abandoned US20070214948A1 (en) | 2004-05-04 | 2005-05-04 | Launch Apparatus |
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US (1) | US20070214948A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1756510A1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2007536496A (en) |
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US20200025471A1 (en) * | 2016-01-11 | 2020-01-23 | Martin Grier | Firearm system and method |
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CN103115530B (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2014-11-26 | 南通天地通网络工程有限公司 | Wireless remote controlled launch type fireworks and firecrackers |
KR101689950B1 (en) * | 2014-02-13 | 2016-12-26 | 박종배 | apparatus for fireworks |
US9429398B2 (en) * | 2014-05-21 | 2016-08-30 | Universal City Studios Llc | Optical tracking for controlling pyrotechnic show elements |
IT201800003551A1 (en) * | 2018-03-14 | 2019-09-14 | Monetti S R L | Coupling and current transmission system for an electric igniter, in particular for single shot fireworks. |
WO2021183646A1 (en) | 2020-03-11 | 2021-09-16 | Strictly Fx, Llc | Pyrotechnic launch units and systems |
DE102020119231B4 (en) | 2020-07-21 | 2022-07-21 | Krauss-Maffei Wegmann Gmbh & Co. Kg | Military launcher |
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JPS6479599A (en) * | 1987-09-21 | 1989-03-24 | Yasushi Yui | Method of igniting launching powder for firework |
DE3828234C2 (en) * | 1988-08-19 | 1997-05-22 | Nico Pyrotechnik | Ammunition from a shot cup and an active body |
FR2653217B1 (en) * | 1989-10-16 | 1994-07-22 | Maurel Robert | PROCESS AND INSTALLATION OF FIRE OF PYROTECHNIC DEVICES, AND PYROTECHNIC DEVICES USED FOR THEIR IMPLEMENTATION. |
DE4007373A1 (en) * | 1990-03-08 | 1991-09-12 | Precitronic | Pyrotechnical device simulating firing effects |
FR2715998B1 (en) * | 1994-02-10 | 1996-04-26 | Lacroix E Tous Artifices | Multi-thrower system with pyrotechnic effect. |
ES2201895B1 (en) * | 2002-02-14 | 2005-06-01 | Pirotecnia Caballer, S.A. | FIXING SYSTEM FOR PIROTECHNIC LAUNCHING TUBES. |
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2005
- 2005-05-04 CA CA002564823A patent/CA2564823A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2005-05-04 AU AU2005238724A patent/AU2005238724A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2005-05-04 EP EP05735735A patent/EP1756510A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2005-05-04 WO PCT/IB2005/001219 patent/WO2005106379A1/en active Application Filing
- 2005-05-04 US US11/579,488 patent/US20070214948A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2005-05-04 JP JP2007512563A patent/JP2007536496A/en active Pending
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US2876678A (en) * | 1952-04-05 | 1959-03-10 | Lyon George Albert | Rocket gun |
US3102477A (en) * | 1961-11-21 | 1963-09-03 | Russell O Stefan | Rocket signal device |
US3336870A (en) * | 1965-09-17 | 1967-08-22 | Robert B Gunyan | Remotely controlled flare firing device and method |
US4266357A (en) * | 1978-05-24 | 1981-05-12 | Bristol Marine, Inc. | Multiple unit flare launcher |
US5450686A (en) * | 1989-10-10 | 1995-09-19 | Joanell Laboratories, Inc. | Pyrotechnic ignition apparatus |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9228803B2 (en) * | 2013-05-20 | 2016-01-05 | Csi-Penn Arms, Llc | Universal tube launched munitions system |
DE102016000122B4 (en) | 2016-01-08 | 2022-03-03 | Drew Defense GmbH | Combat simulation device |
US20200025471A1 (en) * | 2016-01-11 | 2020-01-23 | Martin Grier | Firearm system and method |
US11047634B2 (en) * | 2016-01-11 | 2021-06-29 | Forward Defense Munitions, Co. | Firearm system and method |
CN109696081A (en) * | 2019-01-11 | 2019-04-30 | 中国人民解放军66329部队 | A kind of cluster type automation signal ball emitter based on electromagnetism percussion |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AU2005238724A1 (en) | 2005-11-10 |
JP2007536496A (en) | 2007-12-13 |
CA2564823A1 (en) | 2005-11-10 |
WO2005106379A1 (en) | 2005-11-10 |
EP1756510A1 (en) | 2007-02-28 |
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Legal Events
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
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