Launching structure for a pyrotechnic cartridge and pyrotechnic cartridge equipped with such a launching structure.

Abstract

- Launching structure for a pyrotechnic cartridge and pyrotechnic cartridge equipped with such a launching structure. - The launching structure (2) comprises a socket (3) and a pyrotechnic ejection system (4), the pyrotechnic ejection system (4) being activated by the application of an electric current and being mounted in a housing (9) provided at one end (3A) of the socket (3) and being accessible from the outside, the interface (10) between the pyrotechnic ejection system (4) and the socket (3) being provided with an insulator (11) which is configured to completely electrically isolate the pyrotechnic ejection system (4) from the socket (3) so that in the event of electromagnetic interference such as a lightning strike, which could generate an electric current which tends to propagate in the socket (3), the pyrotechnic ejection system (4) is not impacted by this electric current and is not at risk of being activated unintentionally. Figure for the abridged version: Fig.2.

Description

Title of the invention: Launching structure for a pyrotechnic cartridge and pyrotechnic cartridge provided with such a launching structure. technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a launching structure for a pyrotechnic cartridge and a pyrotechnic cartridge provided with such a launching structure. State of the art

[0002] Although not exclusively, the present invention can be applied for example to the protection of an aircraft such as an airplane or a helicopter.

[0003] It is known that, to counter the various threats it faces, an aircraft such as a fighter jet, for example, can be equipped with defensive decoy systems. Depending on the type of threat, the aircraft can carry different types of decoys, including infrared decoys. In the case of infrared decoys, which are designed in particular to protect the aircraft against infrared homing missiles, each decoy comprises at least one pyrotechnic charge housed in a launch structure equipped with a socket and an impeller. The pyrotechnic charge is ejected from the launch structure and detonated to emit an infrared decoy signal.

[0004] The pyrotechnic charge is triggered by applying an electrical current pulse to the impeller. Because of this type of triggering by the application of an electrical current, it is necessary to provide means to prevent any accidental firing of one or more decoys in the event of electrical or electromagnetic interference (electrostatic discharges, electromagnetic radiation, etc.) to the decoy system carrying the decoys, which is mounted on the aircraft.

[0005] In particular, untimely simultaneous firing of several decoys, caused for example by a lightning strike, can lead to catastrophic effects, due in particular to the accumulation of mechanical forces generated during these firings.

[0006] The risk is increased when the decoys are installed in a container (or pod) mounted on the aircraft, for example, underneath the aircraft. This is because they are then close to the container's surface, which conducts the lightning current, so the induced fields are stronger than on the aircraft's structure. The effects of lightning are applied directly to the container, thus making the pyrotechnic decoys highly vulnerable.

[0007] This risk exists for other types of pyrotechnic cartridges than pyrotechnic decoys.

[0008] There is therefore a need to have a solution to prevent the untimely triggering of the ejection of the pyrotechnic charge of a pyrotechnic cartridge, in particular during an electromagnetic attack such as a lightning strike for example. Description of the invention

[0009] The present invention aims to provide such a solution. To this end, it relates to a launching structure for a pyrotechnic cartridge, for example an infrared decoy, said launching structure comprising at least one socket and a pyrotechnic ejection system, said pyrotechnic ejection system being activated by the application of an electric current and being mounted in a housing provided at one end of the socket and being accessible from outside the socket.

[0010] According to the invention, the interface between the pyrotechnic ejection system and the socket is provided with an insulator which is configured to completely electrically isolate the pyrotechnic ejection system from the socket.

[0011] Thus, thanks to this electrical insulator, in the event of an external disturbance such as a lightning strike, which could generate an electric current that tends to propagate through the cartridge case, the pyrotechnic ejection system, for example an impeller, is electrically isolated from the cartridge case and is therefore not affected by this electric current. Consequently, it is not at risk of being accidentally activated by such an electric current.

[0012] A pyrotechnic cartridge comprising this launch structure is thus protected from accidental triggering during electrical or electromagnetic aggressions such as electrostatic discharges or electromagnetic radiation.

[0013] Moreover, in addition to being effective, this solution is simple to implement and inexpensive.

[0014] In a particular embodiment, the pyrotechnic ejection system is provided with a threaded section configured to be screwed into a cooperating tapped section provided in the socket and forming said housing. In a first embodiment, the insulator is arranged on the inner face of the tapped section of the socket, intended to come into contact with the threaded section of the pyrotechnic ejection system, while, in a second embodiment, the insulator is arranged on the outer face of the threaded section of the pyrotechnic ejection system, intended to come into contact with the tapped section of the socket.

[0015] In the context of the present invention, the (electrical) insulator can be made of various common materials (specified below) exhibiting good electrical insulation properties. In a preferred embodiment, the insulator is made of parylene (or polyparaxylylene or poly(p-xylylene)). In addition to being a good electrical insulator, parylene offers numerous other advantages, including chemical inertness, good conformability, and easily controllable thickness.

[0016] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the socket is connected to a mechanical mass (i.e., to a common reference potential, which is used as a voltage reference for different voltages existing in the application under consideration, and in particular that of the structure or fuselage of the craft, for example an aircraft, when the system (for example a decoy system) comprising the launch structure is mounted on such a craft).

[0017] Thus, in the event of an external attack such as a lightning strike in particular, which generates an electric current propagating in the socket, this electric current is discharged to ground, which provides additional protection against a potential accidental triggering of the pyrotechnic ejection system.

[0018] The present invention also relates to a pyrotechnic cartridge, for example an infrared decoy, comprising at least a launching structure and a pyrotechnic charge.

[0019] According to the invention, said launching structure is a launching structure such as that described above.

[0020] The present invention further relates to a system, for example a decoy system, in particular for an aircraft and especially an airplane or a helicopter, said system comprising at least one charger and at least one pyrotechnic cartridge as described above. Brief description of the figures

[0021] Other advantages and features will become clearer from the following description of embodiments of the invention, given by way of non-limiting examples, with particular reference to the accompanying figures. In these figures, identical reference numerals designate similar elements.

[0022] Fig. 1 is a longitudinal view, partially in section, of a pyrotechnic cartridge comprising a launching structure according to a particular embodiment of the invention.

[0023] Fig. 2 is a very schematic view of one end of a launching structure, allowing the arrangement of an insulator to be highlighted in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0024] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of part of a socket of a launch structure.

[0025] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a pyrotechnic ejection system representing an impeller, which is intended to be screwed into the socket of Fig. 3.

[0026] Fig. 5 is a simplified view of a magazine of a firing system and pyrotechnic cartridges intended to be installed in this magazine. Detailed description

[0027] An example (illustrative and non-limiting) of a launch structure for a pyrotechnic cartridge 1, including in particular a pyrotechnic ejection system, is described below with reference to figures 1 to 5.

[0028] In the following description, relating to a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, the pyrotechnic cartridge 1, as shown in [Fig. 1], may correspond to a decoy, in particular an infrared one,

[0029] The launch structure 2, partially and schematically represented in [Fig.2] and used to illustrate the invention, is intended for a pyrotechnic cartridge 1 such as that in [Fig.1].

[0030] This launch structure 2 represents a structural part of the pyrotechnic cartridge 1, designed to receive a pyrotechnic charge 5 and to allow the launch (or ejection) of this pyrotechnic charge 5, as specified below. To this end, the launch structure 2 typically comprises, as shown in [Fig. 1]: - a socket 3, preferably made of metal, with a longitudinal axis XX; and - a pyrotechnic ejection system 4 of the usual type, arranged in the socket 3 at one of the longitudinal ends 3A and 3B of the socket 3, in this case at the end 3A, being accessible from the outside at the level of this end 3A.

[0031] In the following description of a particular (and non-limiting) embodiment of the invention, the pyrotechnic ejection system 4 corresponds to an impeller.

[0032] The launch structure 2, comprising the socket 3 and the pyrotechnic ejection system 4, is designed to be secured to a magazine forming part of a firing system, as detailed below with reference to [Fig. 5]. The launch structure 2 remains in the magazine after firing.

[0033] The pyrotechnic cartridge 1 also includes, in addition to the launch structure 2, an assembly 6 represented very schematically on [Fig.1], which is intended to be ejected from the launch structure 2.

[0034] Set 6 comprises: - the pyrotechnic charge 5 intended to generate a signal, for example an infrared decoy signal. This pyrotechnic charge 5 is installed inside the socket 3; - a cap 7 closing the socket 3 at its end 3B opposite the end 3A equipped with the pyrotechnic ejection system 4; and - a set 8 comprising the usual safety and ignition means for igniting the pyrotechnic charge 5 at the opportune moment.

[0035] Assembly 6 is known and is not described further. Similarly, the pyrotechnic ejection system 4 can be a conventional impeller.

[0036] The ignition of the pyrotechnical ejection system 4 causes the assembly 6 to be ejected from the socket 3 and the ignition means of the pyrotechnical charge 5 to be initiated. The pyrotechnical charge 5 then generates the signal (for example infrared) after its ejection from the socket 3.

[0037] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the pyrotechnic ejection system 4 is mounted in a housing 9 provided at end 3A of the socket 3, while remaining accessible from the outside (at this end 3A) so that it can be activated in the usual way by applying an electrical pulse. Activation of the pyrotechnic ejection system 4 is achieved by applying an electrical current pulse between two points of the pyrotechnic ejection system 4, illustrated respectively by two arrows Fl and F2 in [Fig. 2].

[0038] According to the invention, the interface 10 between the pyrotechnical ejection system 4 and the socket 3 is provided with an insulator 11. This insulator 11 is formed and positioned to electrically isolate the pyrotechnical ejection system 4 from the socket 3.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the pyrotechnic ejection system 4 is provided with a threaded section 12, as shown in [Fig. 4]. It is configured so that it can be screwed, via this threaded section 12, into a cooperating tapped section 13 ([Fig. 3]) which is provided in the sleeve 3 at the end 3A and which defines the housing 9.

[0040] In a first embodiment (shown in Figures 1 and 2), the insulator 11 is arranged on the inner face of the threaded section 13 (of the sleeve 3), intended to come into contact with the threaded section 12 of the pyrotechnic ejection system 4, when the latter is screwed into the sleeve 3.

[0041] Furthermore, in a second embodiment (not shown), the insulator 11 is arranged on the external face of the threaded section 12 of the pyrotechnic ejection system 4, intended to come into contact with the threaded section 13 of the socket 3 when the pyrotechnic ejection system 4 is screwed into the socket 3.

[0042] Within the scope of the present invention, arrangements of the pyrotechnic ejection system in the socket, other than the preferred one shown on Figures 1 to 4 are possible, provided that an insulator is put in place to electrically isolate the pyrotechnic ejection system from the socket.

[0043] Thanks to the insulator 11 (which is simple to install and inexpensive), in the event of an external disturbance such as a lightning strike, which could generate an electric current that might propagate through the socket 3, the pyrotechnic ejection system 4 is electrically isolated from the socket 3 and is therefore not affected by this electric current. Consequently, it is not at risk of being accidentally activated by such an electric current.

[0044] This provides optimal protection against electromagnetic disturbances in the pyrotechnical area towards the end 3A of the socket 3, with respect to electromagnetic fields generated by indirect lightning.

[0045] Consequently, the pyrotechnic cartridge 1 comprising this launch structure 2 is protected from accidental triggering during electrical or electromagnetic aggressions such as electrostatic discharges or electromagnetic radiation.

[0046] The addition of the insulator 11 around the pyrotechnic ejection system 4 (in the position shown in [Fig.2]) makes it possible to obtain a decoy 1 which complies with the most stringent design standards.

[0047] In the context of the present invention, the (electrical) insulator 11 can be made of various common, electrically insulating materials. By way of example, we can mention: - a PTFE-based Teflon material embedded in a matrix; - a thermoplastic polymer of the polyamide type.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the insulator 11 is made of parylene (or polyparaxylylene or poly(p-xylylene)). In addition to being a good electrical insulator, parylene has other advantages such as chemical inertness, good conformability, and easily controllable thickness.

[0049] In the (non-limiting) example shown in [Fig. 1], the socket 3 and the pyrotechnic charge 5 have circular cross-sections. In the context of the present invention, they may have cross-sections of other shapes, for example square or rectangular.

[0050] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the socket 3 is connected to a mechanical mass, as schematically illustrated by dashed lines 14 in [Fig. 2], which terminate respectively in threaded holes 15 and 16 formed in the end 3A of the socket 3 for fixing screws (not shown). When the system comprising the pyrotechnic cartridge 1 is mounted on an aircraft, the mechanical mass generally corresponds to the mechanical structure of the aircraft or aircraft equipment.

[0051] Thus, the following advantages are obtained in particular: - a pyrotechnic ejection system 4 (for example an impeller) which is protected against electromagnetic interference; - circuits (for the application of the electrical current for activating the pyrotechnical ejection system 4) which are geometrically symmetrical, which makes it possible to greatly limit electromagnetic couplings; - the elimination of antennal effects existing in the prior art; and - the reduction of the loop area between the zones for the application of the electrical current for activating the pyrotechnic ejection system 4.

[0052] The launch structure 2 and the pyrotechnic cartridge 1, as described above, can be used in various common types of system which are preferably but not exclusively intended to be mounted on an aircraft (such as an airplane and for example a fighter jet) or a helicopter.

[0053] As an example of the application of the pyrotechnic cartridge 1 and the launching structure 2, Figure 5 shows a magazine 17 of a firing system 18 (in particular a decoy system or decoy launcher). The firing system 18 is mounted on an aircraft (not shown), for example a fighter jet, and is intended to protect the aircraft, in particular against infrared homing missiles, when it represents an infrared decoy system.

[0054] In the example of [Fig. 5], the magazine 17 is designed to receive a plurality of pyrotechnic cartridges 1. This magazine 17 typically comprises: - a guide device 19 including recesses 20, shaped to cooperate with the sockets 3 of the pyrotechnic cartridges 1, which are designed to receive the pyrotechnic cartridges 1; and - a base 21 equipped with the usual means for fixing the charger 17 onto an aircraft structure and for controlling it.

[0055] The charger 17 has, in particular, the following functions: - to ensure the retention of the 3 sockets of the pyrotechnic cartridges 1 (via tubes and recesses) as well as the fixing elements of the magazine 17; - to ensure contact between the pyrotechnic ejection systems 4 of the pyrotechnic cartridges 1 and the electrical interfaces of the decoy system 18, via an electrical circuit; and - to dissipate the recoil forces, generated by the launching structures 2 of the decoys 1, via a breech of the magazine 17

[0056] For each of the pyrotechnic cartridges 1, the launch structure 2 (comprising the socket 3 and the pyrotechnic ejection system 4) is made integral with the magazine 17, and it remains in the magazine 17 after firing (i.e. after the ejection of the assembly 6 of the pyrotechnic cartridge 1).

[0057] Thanks to the aforementioned characteristics of the launching structure 2, the pyrotechnic cartridges 1 comprising such a launching structure 2, as well as the firing system 18 equipped with such pyrotechnic cartridges 1, are more protected against electrostatic discharges and effects induced by electromagnetic radiation, such as: - lightning; - fields emitted by various radiating sources (for example a radar); - disturbances induced by on-board equipment and components (power supply, oscillator, ...).

Claims

Demands

1. Launching structure for a pyrotechnic cartridge, said launching structure (2) comprising at least one socket (3) and a pyrotechnic ejection system (4), said pyrotechnic ejection system (4) being activated by the application of an electric current and being mounted in a housing (9) provided at one end (3A) of the socket (3) and being accessible from the outside, characterized in that the interface (10) between the pyrotechnic ejection system (4) and the socket (3) is provided with an insulator (11) which is configured to completely electrically isolate the pyrotechnic ejection system (4) from the socket (3).

2. Launching structure according to claim 1, characterized in that the pyrotechnic ejection system (4) is provided with a threaded section (12) configured to be able to be screwed into a cooperating tapped section (13), provided in the sleeve (3) and forming said housing (9), and in that the insulator (11) is arranged on the inner face of the tapped section (13) of the sleeve (3), intended to come into contact with the threaded section (12) of the pyrotechnic ejection system (4).

3. Launching structure according to claim 1, characterized in that the pyrotechnic ejection system (4) is provided with a threaded section (12) configured to be able to be screwed into a cooperating tapped section (13) provided in the socket (3) and forming said housing (9), and in that the insulator (11) is arranged on the external face of the threaded section (12) of the pyrotechnic ejection system (4), intended to come into contact with the tapped section (13) of the socket (3).

4. Launching structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the insulator (12) is made of parylene.

5. Launching structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the socket (3) is connected to a mechanical mass.

6. Pyrotechnic cartridge comprising at least one launch structure and a pyrotechnic charge, characterized in that said launch structure (2) is a launch structure according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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