A system and a method for safe and remote activation of a grenade

Abstract

A system and a method for remotely activating and operating a grenade, the grenade including a grenade body, a grenade head, a safety pin accommodated in the grenade head and connected to a pull ring, and a safety lever. The method includes loading the grenade into a grenade-carrier such that the safety-pin is functionally associated with a pin extractor assembly of the grenade-carrier and the safety lever is fixed within the grenade-carrier. Using a remote-control unit, instructing the pin extractor assembly to automatically remove the safety pin from the head of the grenade. Following removal of the safety pin from the head of the grenade, using the remote- control unit, instructing the grenade-carrier to automatically release the grenade. Release of the grenade from the grenade-carrier frees the safety lever to pivot relative to the grenade head thereby to activate the grenade. The system may be modified for multiple munitions.

Description

[0001] A SYSTEM AND A METHOD FOR SAFE AND REMOTE ACTIVATION OF A GRENADE

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to systems and methods for safe and remote activation of a grenade, and specifically to systems and methods which mechanically remove the safety pin of the grenade, without requiring operator exposure during removal of the safety pin.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Grenades have been used in warfare for many decades. Typically, hand grenades are activated by a human operator who removes the safety pin from the grenade, and are then thrown at the target. However, the need for the human operator to remove the safety pin also forms a risk to the human operator, who may be hurt by the grenade in case of a failure of if the grenade is not thrown on time, or not thrown far enough.

[0006] Various mechanisms for automated launching of grenades, such as launching grenades from a drone, have been described. However, the known mechanisms require the human operator to remove the safety pin from the grenade, and thus are subject to similar risks as those caused when throwing the grenade by hand.

[0007] There is thus a need in the art for a system and method for automatically and safely activating a grenade and launching the grenade, without requiring the human operator to pull the safety pin of the grenade or exposing the human operator to risk.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The present invention relates to systems and methods for safe and remote activation of a grenade.

[0010] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a system for remote activation of a grenade having a grenade body, a grenade head accommodating a safety pin connected to a pull ring, and a safety lever. The system includes a grenade -carrier and a remote -control unit.

[0011] The grenade-carrier includes a housing defining a grenade seat adapted to receive the grenade body and a grenade head bay adapted to receive the grenade head. The grenade-carrier further includes a pin extractor assembly functionally associated with the grenade head bay, and adapted, in an active state, when the grenade head is disposed within the grenade head bay, and in response to receipt of a first input, to remove the safety pin from the grenade head.

[0012] The grenade-carrier further includes a grenade hold-and-release assembly adapted to secure the grenade within the housing, and, in response to receipt of a second input, to release the grenade from the housing. When the grenade is secured by the grenade hold-and-release assembly, the safety lever is prevented from pivoting relative to the grenade head even if the safety pin has been removed from the grenade.

[0013] The grenade-carrier further includes a communication interface and a controller, functionally associated with the pin extractor assembly, the grenade hold-and-release assembly, and the communication interface, for controlling activation thereof.

[0014] The grenade -carrier further includes a power supply powering the pin extractor assembly, the grenade hold-and-release assembly, and the controller.

[0015] The remote -control unit includes a controller, a user interface, a communication interface, and a power supply.

[0016] The remote -control unit is adapted to communicate with the grenade-carrier and to provide to the controller of the grenade-carrier the first input and the second input, provided by an operator using the user interface, for remote operation of the grenadecarrier, the first input being separate and distinct from the second input.

[0017] In some embodiments, the grenade hold-and-release assembly is adapted to release the grenade, in response to the second input, only following identification of complete extraction of the safety pin.

[0018] In some embodiments, following extraction of the safety pin from the grenade, release of the grenade from the hold-and-release assembly enables the safety lever to pivot relative to the grenade head.

[0019] In some embodiments, the system further includes a delivery vehicle onto which the grenade-carrier is mounted. The delivery vehicle is adapted to deliver the grenadecarrier and the grenade accommodated therein to a target location for activation of the grenade.

[0020] In some embodiments, the system further includes the grenade.

[0021] In some embodiments, the grenade is an explosive hand grenade. In some embodiments, the grenade is a flash bang grenade. In some embodiments, the grenade is a smoke grenade. In some embodiments, the grenade is a gas grenade.

[0022] In some embodiments, the grenade seat and the grenade head bay are suitable for accommodating at least two of the following types of grenades: an explosive hand grenade; a flash bang grenade; a smoke grenade; and a gas grenade.

[0023] In some embodiments, the grenade seat and the grenade head bay are suitable for accommodating each of an explosive hand grenade; a flash bang grenade; a smoke grenade; and a gas grenade.

[0024] In some embodiments, the pin extractor assembly includes a motor, operable in response to receipt of the first input, and an extractor, adapted to engage a pull ring of the safety pin of the grenade, and to be moved, by operation of the motor, relative to the grenade head bay, so as to pull the safety pin out of the grenade.

[0025] In some embodiments, the extractor is connected to a slidable connector, the slidable connector being adapted to slide along a threaded rod, which threaded rod is adapted to be rotated by operation of the motor.

[0026] In some embodiments, the threaded rod extends out of the motor.

[0027] In some embodiments, the threaded rod is disposed in parallel to the motor, and rotation of the motor is transferred to the rod by at least two gears.

[0028] In some embodiments, the pin extractor assembly includes a pull-sensor adapted to provide a pull signal to the controller of the grenade-carrier when the extraction of the safety pin is complete.

[0029] In some embodiments, following receipt of the first input, if the pull signal was not received within a predetermined duration, the controller of the grenade-carrier is adapted to provide a warning signal to the remote-control unit.

[0030] In some embodiments, when the grenade is disposed within the grenade-carrier, the grenade hold-and-release assembly applies pressure to the grenade in an axial direction, such that when the safety pin is removed from the grenade, the pressure in the axial direction prevents the safety lever from pivoting relative to the grenade head, thereby maintaining the grenade un-actuated.

[0031] In some embodiments, the grenade hold-and-release assembly includes a clamp connected to at least one spring, the clamp being movable relative to the grenade head bay along a ratcheted rod, and adapted to secure the grenade within the grenade housing.

[0032] In some embodiments, the grenade hold-and-release assembly further includes a rotating mechanism adapted, in response to receipt of the second input, to rotate the ratcheted rod thereby releasing the clamp to move away from the grenade head bay under the force of the at least one spring and releasing the grenade from the grenade housing.

[0033] In some embodiments, the clamp includes a tooth adapted to engage the ratcheted rod, and the grenade hold-and-release assembly further includes a pivoting arm associated with a pivoting actuator and with the ratcheted rod. In some embodiments, in response to receipt of the second input, the controller of the grenadecarrier is adapted to operate the pivoting actuator to cause pivoting of the arm causing the ratcheted rod to disengage the tooth of the clamp, thereby releasing the clamp to move away from the grenade head bay under the force of the at least one spring and releasing the grenade from the grenade housing.

[0034] In some embodiments, the grenade-carrier includes a sensor adapted to sense the presence of a grenade within the grenade-carrier, and to provide to the controller of the grenade-carrier a drop signal indicating when the grenade head is no longer present in the grenade-carrier.

[0035] In some embodiments, following receipt of the second input, if the drop signal was not received within a predetermined duration, the controller of the grenade -carrier is adapted to provide a warning signal.

[0036] In some embodiments, the system further includes a delivery vehicle, having the grenade-carrier mounted thereon. In some embodiments, the delivery vehicle includes an unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0037] In some embodiments, the grenade-carrier is adapted to carry a plurality of grenades, and the remote-control unit is adapted to control pin extraction and release of each of the plurality of grenades.

[0038] In some embodiments, when the grenade is disposed within the grenade-carrier, the safety lever of the grenade is exposed.

[0039] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of remotely activating and operating a grenade, the grenade including a grenade body, a grenade head, a safety pin accommodated in the grenade head and connected to a pull ring, and a safety lever, the method including:

[0040] (a) loading the grenade into a grenade-carrier such that the safety-pin is functionally associated with a pin extractor assembly of the grenade-carrier and the safety lever is fixed within the grenade -carrier;

[0041] (b) using a remote -control unit, providing a first input instructing the pin extractor assembly to automatically remove the safety pin from the head of the grenade;

[0042] (c) responsive to confirmation of complete removal of the safety pin from the head of the grenade, using the remote -control unit, providing a second input instructing the grenade-carrier to automatically release the grenade, wherein release of the grenade from the grenade -carrier frees the safety lever to pivot relative to the grenade head thereby to activate the grenade.

[0043] In some embodiments, the loading of the grenade includes: manually placing the grenade in a grenade seat of the grenade-carrier, such that the grenade head is in a grenade head bay of the grenade-carrier; manually placing the pull ring of the grenade on a movable pin extractor of the pin extractor assembly; and manually pushing a movable clamp toward the grenade head bay, thereby to secure the grenade within the grenade-carrier.

[0044] In some embodiments, loading of the grenade comprises manually placing the grenade in the grenade seat such that the safety lever of the grenade is exposed, and manually pushing the movable clamp such that the clamp applies pressure to the grenade in an axial direction, which pressure prevents the exposed safety lever from pivoting relative to the grenade head.

[0045] In some embodiments, the method further includes, prior to step (b), mounting the grenade-carrier on a delivery vehicle, and guiding the delivery vehicle with the grenade-carrier to a target location for release of the grenade.

[0046] In some embodiments, the method further includes, following step (b), upon receipt of a warning notification indicative of a failure in removal of the safety-pin, initiating safe disposal of the grenade.

[0047] In some embodiments, the method further includes, following step (c), upon receipt of a warning notification indicative of a failure in releasing of the grenade from the grenade-carrier, initiating safe disposal of the grenade.

[0048] In some embodiments, the method further includes, following step (c), retrieving the grenade-carrier for future use thereof. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0049] The foregoing discussion will be understood more readily from the following detailed description of the invention, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying Figures (1-11), in which:

[0050] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a system for safe and remote activation and launching of a grenade according to embodiments of the disclosed technology;

[0051] Figure 2 is a top front perspective illustration of a grenade-carrier of the system of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology;

[0052] Figures 3A and 3B are bottom front perspective illustrations of the grenadecarrier of Figure 2, in empty and loaded operative states, respectively;

[0053] Figure 4 is a partly exploded top view perspective illustration of the grenadecarrier of Figures 2 to 3B, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology;

[0054] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional illustration of the grenade -carrier of Figures 2 to 4, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology;

[0055] Figures 6A and 6B are partially exploded illustrations of a pin extractor assembly forming part of the grenade-carrier of Figures 2 to 5, in various steps of operation thereof, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology;

[0056] Figures 7A and 7B are schematic illustrations of a grenade hold-and-release assembly forming part of the grenade-carrier of Figures 2 to 5, in various steps of operation thereof, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology;

[0057] Figure 8 is a top front perspective illustration of another grenade-carrier of the system of Figure 1, according to another embodiment of the disclosed technology;

[0058] Figures 9A and 9B are bottom front perspective illustrations of the grenadecarrier of Figure 8 according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology, in empty and loaded operative states, respectively;

[0059] Figures 10A and 10B are a fully exploded view and a partly exploded top view illustration of the grenade -carrier of Figures 8-9B, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology;

[0060] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional illustration of the grenade-carrier of Figures 8 to 10B, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology;

[0061] Figures 12A and 12B are illustrations of a pin extractor assembly forming part of the grenade-carrier of Figures 8 to 11, in various steps of operation thereof, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology; Figures 13A and 13B are sectional illustrations of the grenade-carrier of Figures 8 to 11, in various states thereof, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology, the sectional illustrations taken along a first direction;

[0062] Figures 14A and 14B are sectional illustrations of the grenade-carrier of Figures 8 to 11, in various states thereof, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology, the sectional illustrations taken along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the states corresponding to the states of Figures 13A and 13B;

[0063] Figure 15 is a schematic illustration of types of grenades that can be received in the grenade-carrier of Figures 2 to 7B or in the grenade carrier of Figures 8 to 14B, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology;

[0064] Figure 16 is a schematic illustration of types of adaptors that can connect to the grenade-carrier of Figures 2 to 7B or to the grenade carrier of Figures 8 to 14B, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology;

[0065] Figure 17 is a perspective view illustration of a remote-control unit forming part of the system of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology;

[0066] Figure 18 is a flow chart of a method of activating and launching a grenade, by an operator, using the system of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology; and

[0067] Figure 19 is a flow chart of a method of operation of the grenade -carrier of the system of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology.

[0068] DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0069] The principles of the inventive system and method for safely and remotely activating and launching a grenade, may be better understood with reference to the drawings and the accompanying description.

[0070] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the term “substantially” is defined as “within 10% deviation of’.

[0071] Reference is now made to Figure 1, which is a block diagram of a system 10 for safe and remote activation and launching of a grenade according to embodiments of the disclosed technology.

[0072] System 10 includes a grenade-carrier 12 and a remote -control unit 14.

[0073] Grenade-carrier 12 includes a housing, defining a grenade seat 22 and a grenade head bay 24. The housing is adapted to receive a grenade with the body of the grenade disposed in seat 22 and the head of the grenade being disposed in bay 24, as explained in further detail hereinbelow.

[0074] A pin extractor assembly 26 is functionally associated with grenade head bay 24, and is configured to automatically remove the safety pin from the grenade, as explained in further detail hereinbelow.

[0075] A grenade hold-and-release assembly 28 is functionally associated with grenade seat 22, and is configured to hold the grenade within carrier 12, and to release the grenade from carrier 12, at appropriate times. As explained in further detail hereinbelow, grenade hold-and-release assembly 28 further ensures that the safety lever of the grenade remains tightly held until launching of the grenade, thus preventing premature detonation or activation of the grenade.

[0076] Pin extractor assembly 26 and grenade hold-and-release assembly 28 are functionally associated with a controller 30, which is adapted to control operation of the pin extractor assembly and of the hold-and-release assembly.

[0077] The term “controller” as used herein means a computing device configured for monitoring, controlling, regulating and / or actuating one or more components, assemblies, stations, systems, or subsystems. A controller should be understood to include any or all of (and not exhaustively): one or more processors, one or more computer-readable media, e.g., transient and / or non-transient storage media, communications arrangements, a power source and / or a connection to a power source, and firmware and / or software. Controllers can be programmed in advance, e.g., by having program instructions stored in the computer-readable media for execution by one of more processors of the controller. Thus, a controller ‘configured’ to perform a function is equivalent herein to the controller being programmed, i.e., having access to stored program instructions for execution, to perform the function. Controller 30 may also be functionally associated with a user interface 32, for example including switches or buttons which can be activated or deactivated by a human operator of grenade-carrier 12. Grenade-carrier 12 further includes a communication interface 34, which may also be functionally associated with controller 30. Communication interface 34 is adapted to communicate with remote -control unit 14, for receipt of operation commands from an operator who is remote from the grenade-carrier 12, and to send feedback to the remote -control unit to alert the operator to problems, as explained in further detail hereinbelow.

[0078] Typically, controller 30, user interface 32, and / or communication interface 34 are mounted on, or within, the housing of the grenade-carrier.

[0079] A battery, or another power source, 36, powers all the electronic components of grenade-carrier 12.

[0080] In some implementations, grenade-carrier 12 may be mounted onto a delivery vehicle 38, which delivers the grenade -carrier to the target for activation and release of the grenade. For example, the delivery vehicle 38 may be an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) also known as a drone, or a chassis of a car, to which grenade-carrier 12 is attached.

[0081] Remote -control unit 14 includes a controller 40, functionally associated with a user interface 42 and with a communication interface 44. User interface 42 is adapted to receive user instructions for operation of grenade -carrier 12, and communication interface 44 is adapted to transmit to the grenade-carrier, and specifically to communication interface 34 thereof, input corresponding to the received user instructions, as explained in further detail hereinbelow.

[0082] A battery, or another power source, 46, powers all the electronic components of remote -control unit 14.

[0083] Communication interfaces 34 and 44 may communicate with each other using any suitable protocol known in the art, such as via Bluetooth communication, Radio Frequency communication, Wi-Fi communication, and the like.

[0084] It is to be appreciated that system 10 of Figure 1 may be modified to carry and activate a plurality of grenades, as required. For example, the grenade-carrier may include multiple grenade seats each associated with a pin extractor assembly and a grenade hold-and-release assembly, which would operate based on corresponding instructions received from the remote -control unit. As another example, the grenade- carrier may include a revolving grenade holder, adapted to bring each grenade into contact with the pin extractor assembly and with the grenade hold-and-release assembly.

[0085] Reference is now made to Figure 2, which is a top front perspective illustration of an exemplary grenade-carrier 12, to Figures 3A and 3B, which are bottom front perspective illustrations of grenade-carrier 12 in empty and loaded operative states, respectively, to Figure 4, which is a partly exploded top view perspective illustration of grenade-carrier 12, and to Figure 5, which is a cross-sectional illustration of the grenade-carrier 12, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology.

[0086] Grenade-carrier 12 includes housing 20, having a cover 48 (seen clearly in Figure 4), the housing defining grenade seat 22 and grenade head bay 24 (both seen clearly in Figure 3A).

[0087] As seen in Figure 3B, a grenade 100 having a grenade body 102 and a grenade head 104 is adapted to be disposed within the housing, such that the grenade head is within grenade head bay 24 and the grenade body is within seat 22. Grenade 100 additionally includes a safety pin 106 attached to a pull ring 108, and a safety lever 110. As shown in Figure 3B, the grenade is placed within housing 20 such that safety lever 110 faces away from seat 22, and pull ring 108 is oriented toward a pin extractor of pin extractor assembly 26, as explained hereinbelow.

[0088] Reference is now additionally made to Figures 6A and 6B, which are partially exploded illustrations of pin extractor assembly 26, in two steps of operation thereof, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology.

[0089] Pin extractor assembly 26 is disposed about grenade head bay 24, and includes a slidable extractor 50, slidable relative to the grenade head bay. Slidable extractor 50 is connected to a motor 52 via a rod 54. Specifically, an arch 51 attached to slidable extractor 50 is disposed about rod 54, and is movable therealong relative to motor 52. An extractor housing 55 (see Figures 6A and 6B) covers the rod and the motor. When motor 52 is active, rotation of the motor actuates rotation of rod 54, thereby driving motion of extractor 50 along the rod.

[0090] Typically, extractor 50 is mounted onto a sliding track 56. Extractor 50 includes an indentation 58, adapted to receive a pull-ring attached to the safety pin of the grenade, such that motion of extractor 50 relative to the grenade head bay causes pulling on the pull ring and extraction of the safety pin. Figure 6A illustrates pin extractor assembly 26 when the pin is within the grenade. In this setting, arch 51 is adjacent motor 52. When motor 52 is activated, arch 51 moves along rod 54 away from motor 52, thereby drawing extractor 50 away from the motor and from the head of the grenade. Because the pull ring of the grenade is attached to indentation 58, motion of extractor 50 away from the head of the grenade extracts the safety pin 106 from the grenade.

[0091] In some embodiments, pin extractor assembly 26 may further include a switch or sensor 60 (indicated in Figure 4) adapted to identify when extractor 50 has completed its motion relative to the grenade head bay, indicating that the safety pin 106 has been fully removed. For example, extractor 50 may have an arm portion 50’ extending into the extractor housing 55, such that arm portion 50’ is adapted to engage switch 60 upon completion of the pin extraction. As explained in further detail hereinbelow, this sensor assists in maintaining the safe activation of the grenade.

[0092] As explained in further detail hereinbelow, extraction of the pin does not automatically activate grenade 100, because safety lever 110 is held in place until release of the grenade by grenade hold-and-release assembly 28.

[0093] As seen clearly in Figures 4 and 5, the processor 30, communication interface 34, and other electronic components, are disposed between cover 48 and grenade seat 22 of housing 20. An antenna 62, functionally associated with communication interface 34, as well as battery 36, extend out of one side of housing 20, whereas user interface 32 can be disposed on an opposing side of housing 20.

[0094] In some embodiments, user interface 32 includes various switches and buttons to activate operation of the grenade-carrier, as well as to test functionality of the various assemblies thereof. For example, user interface 32 may include any one or more of the following: a pin-in / out switch allowing an operator to test operation of the pin extractor assembly 26; a release switch allowing an operator to test operation of the grenade hold-and- release assembly 28; an on / off switch; and a communication on / off switch facilitating communication with remote-control unit 14.

[0095] Reference is now additionally made to Figures 7A and 7B, which are schematic illustrations of grenade hold-and-release assembly 28 in various steps of operation thereof, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology.

[0096] Grenade hold-and-release assembly 28 includes a clamp 70, seen clearly in Figures 3A and 5, the clamp being disposed distally to grenade head bay 24. Clamp 70 is slidable relative to grenade seat 22, as indicated by an arrow in Figure 5, and is adapted to engage a bottom end of grenade 100, so as to trap the grenade within housing 20. Clamp 70 is movable toward grenade head bay 24 along a ratcheted rod 72, seen in Figure 3A and 7A, by engagement of a tooth (not explicitly shown) on the clamp with the ratchets in the rod. Clamp 70 is further associated with a pair of springs 74, one end of which is seated against clamp 70, and the opposing end of which is seated against the distal end of the grenade head bay 24.

[0097] In some embodiments, grenade hold-and-release assembly 28 may further include a switch or sensor 75 (indicated in Figure 3A) adapted to identify grenade 100 has been removed from carrier 12, or when the grenade is placed therein. As explained in further detail hereinbelow, this sensor assists in maintaining the safe activation of the grenade.

[0098] Grenade hold-and-release assembly 28 further includes an actuation mechanism 76 (indicated in Figure 5), adapted, upon receipt of a suitable command from controller 30, to cause a rotating mechanism 77 rotate ratcheted rod 72 relative to grenade seat 22. As seen in Figure 7B, when rod 72 is rotated, the tooth of clamp 70 is released from the ratchets in the rod, and the clamp is pushed away from grenade head bay 24 by the force of springs 74. This releases the grenade from seat 22 allowing the grenade to drop. If safety pin 106 has been removed prior to release of clamp 70, dropping of the grenade results in pivoting of safety lever 110 relative to the grenade head and activation of the grenade, as is known in the art.

[0099] Reference is now made to Figure 8, which is a top front perspective illustration of another exemplary grenade-carrier 112. Reference is additionally made to Figures 9A and 9B, which are bottom front perspective illustrations of grenade-carrier 112 in empty and loaded operative states, respectively, to Figures 10A and 10B, which are a fully exploded view and a partly exploded top view illustration of grenade-carrier 112, and to Figure 11, which is a cross-sectional illustration of grenade-carrier 112.

[0100] Grenade-carrier 112 is another implementation of the grenade-carrier described hereinabove with respect to Figure 1, and is similar in structure to grenade-carrier 12 of Figures 2 to 5. Differences between grenade -carrier 12 of Figures 2 to 5 and grenadecarrier 112 are described hereinbelow. Corresponding elements of grenade-carriers 12 and 112 are assigned corresponding numbers, and, where no explicit description is provided for an element of grenade-carrier 112, it is assumed that the description of the corresponding element of grenade-carrier 12 remains applicable also in grenade-carrier 112.

[0101] Grenade-carrier 112 includes housing 120, having a cover 148 (seen clearly in Figures 10A and 10B), the housing defining grenade seat 122 and grenade head bay 124 (both seen clearly in Figure 9A).

[0102] As seen in Figure 9B, grenade 100 is adapted to be disposed within the housing, such that the grenade head is within grenade head bay 124 and the grenade body is within seat 122, in a similar manner to that described hereinabove with respect to Figure 3B.

[0103] As seen clearly in Figures 10A, 10B, and 11, a processor 130, a communication interface 134, and other electronic components, are disposed between cover 148 and grenade seat 122 of housing 120. An antenna 162, functionally associated with communication interface 134, extends out of a side of housing 20. A user interface 132 is disposed on a side of housing 120, in some embodiments continuously to antenna 162. A battery 136 extends slightly out of housing 120, such that a majority of the length and of the volume of the battery is enclosed within the housing.

[0104] User interface 132 is substantially similar to user interface 32 described hereinabove, and includes corresponding switches, such as a pin-in / out switch allowing an operator to test operation of a pin extractor assembly 126; a release switch allowing an operator to test operation of a grenade hold-and-release assembly 128; an on / off switch; and a communication on / off switch facilitating communication with remotecontrol unit 14 (shown clearly in Figure 1).

[0105] Figure 10A clearly illustrates housing 120 and cover 148. Disposed between cover 148 and housing 120 are a circuitry board 131 accommodating processor 130 and communication interface 134. Circuitry board is functionally associated with a motor, or actuation mechanism 176, forming part of grenade hold-and-release assembly 128, described in further detail hereinbelow. Additional components of grenade hold-and- release assembly 128 are also disposed between cover 148 and housing 120, e.g. between circuitry board 131 and the housing. These may include a ratcheted rod and a rotating mechanism, as described in further detail hereinbelow.

[0106] Battery 136 is adapted to be accommodated in a suitable cavity 137 in housing 120, shown in Figure 10A as being disposed on the right side of the housing, and a motor 152 forming part of a pin extractor assembly 126 is adapted to be disposed on the opposing side of the housing, and to be enclosed between the housing and the cover 148.

[0107] A clamp 177, forming part of grenade hold-and-release assembly 128 is adapted to be disposed beneath housing 120, and to assist in securing grenade 100 therein, as described in further detail hereinbelow.

[0108] Reference is now additionally made to Figures 12A and 12B, which are illustrations of pin extractor assembly 126, in two steps of operation thereof, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology.

[0109] As seen clearly in Figure 9A, pin extractor assembly 126 is disposed about grenade head bay 124. As shown in Figures 12A and 12B, pin extractor assembly 126 includes a slidable extractor 150, which is slidable relative to the grenade head bay. Slidable extractor 150 is connected to a motor 152 via a threaded rod 154 and via a plurality of gears 153, which convert the rotational motion of motor 152 to rotational motion of the threaded rod. Specifically, an engagement portion 151 of slidable extractor 150 is disposed about threaded rod 154, and is movable therealong. When motor 152 is active, rotation of the motor actuates rotation of rod 154, thereby driving motion of extractor 150 along the rod.

[0110] Typically, extractor 150 moves relative to a sliding track 156. Extractor 150 includes an indentation 158, adapted to receive the pull-ring attached to the safety pin of the grenade, such that motion of extractor 150 relative to the grenade head bay causes pulling on the pull ring and extraction of the safety pin.

[0111] Figure 12A illustrates the arrangement pin extractor assembly 126 when the pin is within the grenade. In this setting, engagement portion 151 is closer to gears 153. When motor 152 is activated, engagement portion 151 moves along rod 154 away from gears 153, thereby drawing extractor 150 away from the head of the grenade. Because the pull ring of the grenade is attached to indentation 158, motion of extractor 150 away from the head of the grenade extracts the safety pin 106 from the grenade.

[0112] In some embodiments, pin extractor assembly 126 may further include a switch or sensor 160 (indicated in Figure 10B) adapted to identify when extractor 150 has completed its motion relative to the grenade head bay, indicating that the safety pin 106 has been fully removed. As explained in further detail hereinbelow, this sensor assists in maintaining the safe activation of the grenade.

[0113] As explained in further detail hereinbelow, extraction of the pin does not automatically activate grenade 100, because safety lever 110 is held in place until release of the grenade by grenade hold-and-release assembly 128.

[0114] Reference is now made to Figures 13A and 13B, which are sectional illustrations of grenade-carrier 112, the sectional illustrations taking along a first direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the grenade-carrier, and to Figures 14A and 14B, which are sectional illustrations of grenade-carrier 112, taken along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Figures 13A and 14A are taken in a first state of grenade hold-and-release assembly 128, and Figures 13B and 14B are taken in a second state of grenade hold-and-release assembly 128.

[0115] Grenade hold-and-release assembly 128 includes a clamp 170, seen clearly in Figures 9A and 11, the clamp being disposed distally to grenade head bay 124. Clamp 170 is slidable relative to grenade seat 22, as indicated by an arrow in Figure 11, and is adapted to engage a bottom end of grenade 100, so as to trap the grenade within housing 120. Clamp 170 is movable toward grenade head bay 124 along a ratcheted rod 172, seen clearly in Figures 14A and 14B, by engagement of teeth 173 on the clamp with the ratchets in the rod. Clamp 170 is further associated with a pair of springs 174, as described hereinabove.

[0116] In some embodiments, grenade hold-and-release assembly 128 may further include a switch or sensor 175 (indicated in Figures 9A and 11) adapted to identify when the grenade head of grenade 100 is absent from grenade head bay 124, or when the grenade is placed therein. As explained in further detail hereinbelow, this sensor assists in maintaining the safe activation of the grenade.

[0117] Grenade hold-and-release assembly 128 further includes an actuation mechanism 176, typically in the form of a servomotor, shown clearly in Figures 10A, 13A, and 13B. Actuation mechanism 176 is functionally associated with a pivoting arm 177, which is fixed to ratcheted rod 172, as seen in Figures 13A and 13B. Upon receipt of a suitable command from controller 130, actuation mechanism 176 is adapted to push an end of pivoting arm 177, thereby to cause the pivoting arm to pivot relative to clamp 170 and to housing 120. This pivoting causes slight pivoting of ratcheted rod 172 relative to the clamp. As seen in Figures 13B and 14B, when rod 172 is pivoted, teeth 173 of clamp 170 disengage from the ratchets in the rod forming a gap 178 between the teeth and the rod and allowing the clamp to be pushed away from grenade head bay 124 by the force of springs 174. This releases the grenade from seat 122 allowing the grenade to drop. If safety pin 106 has been removed prior to release of clamp 170, dropping of the grenade results in pivoting of safety lever 110 relative to the grenade head and activation of the grenade, as is known in the art.

[0118] Reference is now made to Figure 15, which is a schematic illustration of types of grenades 100 that can be received in the grenade-carrier 12 of Figures 2 to 7B or in grenade-carrier 112 of Figures 8 to 14B, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology.

[0119] As seen in Figure 15, a hand grenade 100a has an ovoid body 102a, a flash bang grenade 100b has a narrow cylindrical body 102b, a gas grenade 100c has a substantially ball shaped body 102c, and a smoke grenade lOOd has a wider cylindrical body 102d. Additionally, the shape of the safety levers 110a, 110b, 110c, and llOd of grenades 100a, 100b, 100c, and lOOd, respectively, are different from each other.

[0120] However, grenade heads typically have a standardized structure, and therefore the grenade heads 104 of grenades 100a, 100b, 100c, and lOOd share the same geometrical structure and dimensions. As a result, grenade head bays 24 or 124 of respective grenade-carriers 12 or 112 can receive any of grenades 100a, 100b, 100c, and lOOd. The width of housing 20 or 120, and specifically of grenade seat 22 or 122, is sufficiently wide to accommodate any of grenades 100a, 100b, 100c, and lOOd.

[0121] The difference in the lengths of the different grenades is accommodated for by the movability of clamps 70 or 170 relative to the grenade head bay, allowing the clamp to be moved as close as necessary to the grenade head bay to hold each type of grenade snugly within the grenade seat, and to ensure that the safety lever cannot move until the clamp retracts.

[0122] In some applications, and as shown for example in Figure 5, a side of clamp 70 which faces grenade head bay 24 includes a plurality of contours, or indentations, 78, 79, and 80, which are configured to engage the bottom ends (i.e. ends distal to the grenade head 104) of grenade bodies 102a, 102b, 102c, and 102d. Such contours may assist in holding the grenade more snugly and conveniently within grenade-carrier 12, but are not necessary for operation of the grenade-carrier. It is to be appreciated that grenade -carriers 12 and / or 112 would be able to accommodate any type of grenade, including grenades not shown herein, provided that the grenade head has a shape corresponding to that of the grenade heads shown herein. It is further appreciated that the grenade-carriers 12 and / or 112 could be modified to carry grenades having a different shaped grenade head. As such, it is to be appreciated that grenade-carriers 12 and / or 112, and system 10 in general, can be used to turn any hand-operated grenade into a launchable-munition, and can be operated safely and remotely from a point of impact.

[0123] It is to be appreciated that a grenade-carriers 12 and / or 112 may be formed with a different grenade head bay shape to accommodate each specific grenade head shape, and would be able to accommodate any grenade having that specific grenade head shape, regardless of the other dimensions of the grenade.

[0124] Reference is now made to Figure 16, which is a schematic illustration of types of adaptors that can connect to the grenade-carrier of Figures 2 to 7B or to the grenade carrier of Figures 8 to 14B, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology.

[0125] As seen, adaptors 180a, 180b, and 180c, are each suitable for connection to a different type of drone or delivery vehicle, such as delivery vehicle 38 of Figure 1. However, cover 148 of grenade-carrier 112 includes four bores 182, adapted to connect, via suitable fasteners indicated by arrows 184, to each of adaptors 180a, 180b, and 180c. The position of bores 182 are standardized, such that despite their different structures, each of adaptors 180a, 180b, and 180c can connect to the grenade carrier at the same positions. Figure 17 is a perspective view of remote-control unit 14 of system 10, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology.

[0126] As seen, remote-control unit 14 includes a housing 90 housing the controller 40 and communication interface 44 (see Figure 1). An antenna 92, functionally associated with communication interface 44, extend out of an end of remote-control unit 14. Battery 46 is also mounted within housing 90.

[0127] User interface 42 of remote -control unit 14 includes a display 94, an arm switch 95, a pull button 96, a drop button 97, and an on / off switch 98. As explained in further detail hereinbelow, arm switch 95 is adapted to arm the system and establish a communication link between remote -control unit 14 and grenade-carrier 12, pull button

[0128] 96 is adapted to initiate extraction of the safety pin from the grenade, and drop button

[0129] 97 is adapted to initiate retraction of clamp 70 leading to dropping of the grenade from the carrier.

[0130] In some embodiments, user interface 42 may further include an audio speaker (not explicitly shown) and / or a vibration motor (not explicitly shown) for providing audio warnings and / or tactile warnings to the operator in case of a malfunction of the system or a problem with removal of the safety pin or with dropping of the grenade, as explained in further detail hereinbelow.

[0131] It is to be appreciated that the remote -control unit of Figure 17 is suitable for controlling operation of grenade-carrier 12 of Figures 2 to 7B and for controlling operation of grenade carrier 112 of Figures 8 to 14B, according to embodiments of the disclosed technology.

[0132] Figure 18 is a flow chart of a method of activating and launching grenade 100 using system 10 of Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology. The description of Figure 18 is provided with respect to grenade-carrier 12, but is equally applicable to grenade-carrier 112 described hereinabove, and to any other grenade carrier in accordance with the teachings herein.

[0133] At an initial step S200, the operator activates grenade-carrier 12. In some embodiments, in optional steps S202 and S204, the operator may test the functionality of pin extractor assembly 26 grenade hold-and-release assembly 28, for example by activating them directly from user interface 32 of the grenade-carrier.

[0134] At step S206, the operator removes pull ring 106 from its clip on the side of grenade 100, making the pull ring accessible for use.

[0135] At step S208, the operator places grenade 100 in grenade -carrier 12, such that grenade body 102 is within grenade seat 22 and grenade head 104 is within grenade head bay 24. The user then places pull ring 106 of grenade 100 within indentation 58 of extractor 50 at step S210, so that motion of the extractor will result in motion of the pull ring and of the safety pin. The user completes loading of grenade 100 by pushing clamp 70 toward grenade head bay 24, until clamp 70 holds the grenade firmly in place, at step S212.

[0136] At step S214, the operator activates communication interface 34 of grenadecarrier 12, for example by operating a switch forming part of user interface 32. The operator then determines whether a confirmation message indicating that communication is ok was received, at step S216. If no such message was received, the system is faulty, and the flow terminates at step S217. Otherwise, if a confirmation message was received, at step S218 the user activates remote-control unit 14, and arms the system by flipping arm switch 95. The operator then determines whether a confirmation message indicating that communication is ok was received, at step S220. If no such message was received, the system is faulty, and the flow terminates at step S217. Otherwise, proper communication has been established between grenade-carrier 12 and remote-control unit 14, and the operator can deliver grenade-carrier to a target location at step S222.

[0137] At step S224, the operator presses pull button 96 on remote -control unit 14 in order to initiate pulling of safety pin 106 out of grenade 100. The operator then waits a predetermined duration (e.g. 5 seconds) to see whether a warning signal is received, at step S226. The warning signal may be in the form of a sound emanating from remote - control unit 14, a visual message on the remote -control unit, vibration of the remote control unit, or by any other suitable method.

[0138] If a warning signal is received, at step S228 the operator initiates a safe disposal procedure, for example involving a bomb squad to actively and safely detonate the grenade.

[0139] Otherwise, if no warning signal is received, in some embodiments, the operator may wait for confirmation that the pin was properly extracted from the grenade. If no such confirmation is received, the flow may return to step S228. Otherwise, if the confirmation is received, or if the operator does not wait for a positive confirmation and operates only based on the absence of a negative message, when the time is right, at step S230 the operator presses drop button 97 on remote-control unit 14 in order to initiate dropping of grenade 100 out of grenade -carrier 12.

[0140] The operator then waits a predetermined duration (e.g. 5 seconds) to see whether a warning signal is received, at step S232. The warning signal may be in the form of a sound emanating from the remote-control unit, a visual message on the remote -control unit, vibration of the remote-control unit, or by any other suitable method.

[0141] If a warning signal is received, flow returns to step S228 and the operator initiates the safe retrieval procedure. Otherwise, in some embodiments, the operator may wait for positive confirmation that the grenade was dropped. If no such confirmation is received, the flow may return to step S228. Otherwise, if the confirmation is received, or if the operator does not wait for a positive confirmation and operates only based on the absence of a negative message, the mission is complete and at step S234 the operator retrieves grenade-carrier 12 for re-loading thereof.

[0142] Reference is now made to Figure 19, which is a flow chart of a method of operation of grenade-carrier 12 of system 10, according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology. The method of Figure 19 is typically carried out by the controller of the grenade-carrier. The description of Figure 19 is provided with respect to grenadecarrier 12, but is equally applicable to grenade-carrier 112 described hereinabove, and to any other grenade carrier in accordance with the teachings herein.

[0143] At an initial step S250, controller 30 evaluates whether it is armed. If it is armed, and communication is correct, processor 30 causes user interface 32 to display a communication confirmation at step S252.

[0144] Controller 30 then waits until it receives, from remote-control unit 14, via communication interface 34, an instruction to pull the safety pin out of the grenade, at step S254. In some embodiments, controller 30 then validates whether a grenade is present within the grenade-carrier, at step S256. If no grenade is present, an error message is provided at step S258. In some embodiments, the error message may be transmitted from carrier 12 to remote-control unit 14, to be displayed thereon. In some embodiments, the error message may be displayed on a display forming part of user interface 32 on grenade-carrier 12.

[0145] Otherwise, if the grenade is present, at step S260 controller 30 operates pin extractor assembly 26 to trigger extraction of the safety pin from the grenade. For example, controller 30 may trigger initiation of operation of motor 52, to drive extractor 50 away from the grenade head, thereby the extract the pin, as explained hereinabove.

[0146] Controller 30 determines, at step S262, whether it received an input confirming completion of the pin removal. For example, such an input may be received from sensor or switch 60. If no such input was received, a warning signal is provided at step S264. In some embodiments, the warning signal may be transmitted from carrier 12 to remote -control unit 14, to be displayed thereon or otherwise indicated to the operator (e.g. audibly or tactilely). In some embodiments, the warning signal may be displayed on a display forming part of user interface 32 on grenade -carrier 12.

[0147] If an input confirming that the pin was properly extracted is received, in some embodiments, a pull -confirmation may be provided at step S265. In some embodiments, the pull confirmation may be transmitted from carrier 12 to remote- control unit 14, to be displayed thereon or otherwise indicated to the operator (e.g. audibly or tactilely).

[0148] Controller 30 then waits until it receives, from remote-control unit 14, via communication interface 34, an instruction to drop the grenade, at step S266. At step S268 controller 30 operates grenade hold-and-release assembly 28 to trigger dropping of the grenade from the carrier. For example, controller 30 may trigger rotation of ratcheted rod 72 and motion of clamp 70 away from the grenade head, thereby to allow the grenade to drop out of grenade seat 22 in the grenade-carrier, as explained hereinabove.

[0149] It is to be appreciated that once the grenade is removed from the grenade-carrier, since the safety pin has already been removed at step S262, the safety lever can pivot relative to the grenade head triggering activation of the grenade.

[0150] Controller 30 determines, at step S270, whether it received an input confirming removal of the grenade from the grenade-carrier. For example, such an input may be received from sensor or switch 75 indicating that there has been a change in the status of the presence of a grenade. If no input confirming the drop of the grenade was received, the flow returns to step S264 and a warning signal is provided, substantially as described hereinabove.

[0151] Otherwise, the grenade has been safely dropped, and at step S272 a completion signal is provided. In some embodiments, the completion signal may be transmitted from carrier 12 to remote -control unit 14, to be displayed thereon or otherwise indicated to the operator (e.g. audibly or tactilely). In some embodiments, the completion signal may be displayed on a display forming part of user interface 32 on grenade-carrier 12. In some applications, controller 30 may await resetting thereof with respect to a new grenade.

[0152] It is to be appreciated that the methods of Figures 10 and 11 can be used with any type of hand-operated grenade (possibly modifying the shape of the grenade seat and / or of the grenade head bay), to turn the grenade into a safely operated launchable munition or projectile.

[0153] It is to be appreciated that grenade-carrier 12 may be modified to carry multiple grenades, and similarly remote -control unit 14 may be modified to control activation of those multiple grenades. In such embodiments, the methods of Figures 18 and 19 would also be modified, for example to operate iteratively to control activation and launching of multiple grenades.

[0154] It will be appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. Similarly, the content of a claim depending from one or more particular claims may generally depend from the other, unspecified claims, or be combined with the content thereof, absent any specific, manifest incompatibility therebetween. Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims. 1

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A system for remote activation of a grenade having a grenade body, a grenade head accommodating a safety pin connected to a pull ring, and a safety lever, the system comprising:(a) a grenade-carrier, comprising:(i) a housing defining a grenade seat adapted to receive the grenade body and a grenade head bay adapted to receive the grenade head;(ii) a pin extractor assembly functionally associated with the grenade head bay, and adapted, in an active state, when the grenade head is disposed within the grenade head bay, and in response to receipt of a first input, to remove the safety pin from the grenade head;(iii) a grenade hold-and-release assembly adapted to secure the grenade within the housing, and, in response to receipt of a second input, to release the grenade from the housing, wherein when the grenade is secured by the grenade hold-and-release assembly, the safety lever is prevented from pivoting relative to the grenade head even if the safety pin has been removed from the grenade;(iv) a communication interface;(v) a controller, functionally associated with the pin extractor assembly, the grenade hold-and-release assembly, and the communication interface, for controlling activation thereof; and(vi) a power supply powering the pin extractor assembly, the grenade hold- and-release assembly, and the controller; and(b) a remote-control unit comprising:(i) a controller;(ii) a user interface ;(iii) a communication interface; and(iv) a power supply, wherein the remote-control unit is adapted to communicate with the grenadecarrier and to provide to the controller of the grenade -carrier the first input and the second input, provided by an operator using the user interface, for remote operation of the grenade-carrier, the first input being separate and distinct from the second input.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the grenade hold-and-release assembly is adapted to release the grenade, in response to the second input, only following identification of complete extraction of the safety pin.

3. The system of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, following extraction of the safety pin from the grenade, release of the grenade from the hold-and-release assembly enables the safety lever to pivot relative to the grenade head.

4. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a delivery vehicle onto which the grenade-carrier is mounted, the delivery vehicle adapted to deliver the grenade-carrier and the grenade accommodated therein to a target location for activation of the grenade.

5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising the grenade.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the grenade is an explosive hand grenade.

7. The system of claim 5, wherein the grenade is a flash bang grenade.

8. The system of claim 5, wherein the grenade is a smoke grenade.

9. The system of claim 5, wherein the grenade is a gas grenade.

10. The system of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the grenade seat and the grenade head bay are suitable for accommodating at least two of the following types of grenades: an explosive hand grenade; a flash bang grenade; a smoke grenade; and a gas grenade.

11. The system of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the grenade seat and thegrenade head bay are suitable for accommodating each of the following types of grenades: an explosive hand grenade; a flash bang grenade; a smoke grenade; and a gas grenade.

12. The system of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the pin extractor assembly includes: a motor, operable in response to receipt of the first input; an extractor, adapted to engage a pull ring of the safety pin of the grenade, and to be moved, by operation of the motor, relative to the grenade head bay, so as to pull the safety pin out of the grenade.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the extractor is connected to a slidable connector, the slidable connector being adapted to slide along a threaded rod, which threaded rod is adapted to be rotated by operation of the motor.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the threaded rod extends out of the motor.

15. The system of claim 13, wherein the threaded rod is disposed in parallel to the motor, and rotation of the motor is transferred to the rod by at least two gears.

16. The system of any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein said pin extractor assembly includes a pull-sensor adapted to provide a pull signal to the controller of the grenadecarrier when the extraction of the safety pin is complete.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein, following receipt of the first input, if the pull signal was not received within a predetermined duration, the controller of the grenadecarrier is adapted to provide a warning signal to the remote -control unit.

18. The system of any one of claims 1 to 17 wherein, when the grenade is disposed within the grenade -carrier, the grenade hold-and-release assembly applies pressure tothe grenade in an axial direction, such that when the safety pin is removed from the grenade, the pressure in the axial direction prevents the safety lever from pivoting relative to the grenade head, thereby maintaining the grenade un-actuated.

19. The system of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the grenade hold-and-release assembly comprises a clamp connected to at least one spring, the clamp being movable relative to the grenade head bay along a ratcheted rod, and adapted to secure the grenade within the grenade housing.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the grenade hold-and-release assembly further includes a rotating mechanism adapted, in response to receipt of the second input, to rotate the ratcheted rod thereby releasing the clamp to move away from the grenade head bay under the force of the at least one spring and releasing the grenade from the grenade housing.

21. The system of claim 19, wherein the clamp includes a tooth adapted to engage the ratcheted rod, and wherein the grenade hold-and-release assembly further includes a pivoting arm associated with a pivoting actuator and with the ratcheted rod, wherein, in response to receipt of the second input, the controller of the grenade carrier is adapted to operate the pivoting actuator to cause pivoting of the arm causing the ratcheted rod to disengage the tooth of the clamp, thereby releasing the clamp to move away from the grenade head bay under the force of the at least one spring and releasing the grenade from the grenade housing.

22. The system of any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the grenade-carrier includes a sensor adapted to sense the presence of a grenade within the grenade-carrier, and to provide to the controller of the grenade -carrier a drop signal indicating when the grenade head is no longer present in the grenade-carrier.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein, following receipt of the second input, if the drop signal was not received within a predetermined duration, the controller of the grenade-carrier is adapted to provide a warning signal.

24. The system of any one of claims 4 to 23, wherein the delivery vehicle comprises an unmanned aerial vehicle.

25. The system of any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the grenade-carrier is adapted to carry a plurality of grenades, and the remote-control unit is adapted to control pin extraction and release of each of the plurality of grenades.

26. The system of any one of claims 5 to 25, wherein, when the grenade is disposed within the grenade -carrier, the safety lever of the grenade is exposed.

27. A method of remotely activating and operating a grenade, the grenade including a grenade body, a grenade head, a safety pin accommodated in the grenade head and connected to a pull ring, and a safety lever, the method comprising:(a) loading the grenade into a grenade-carrier such that the safety-pin is functionally associated with a pin extractor assembly of the grenade-carrier and the safety lever is fixed within the grenade -carrier;(b) using a remote -control unit, providing a first input instructing the pin extractor assembly to automatically remove the safety pin from the head of the grenade;(c) responsive to confirmation of complete removal of the safety pin from the head of the grenade, using the remote -control unit, providing a second input instructing the grenade-carrier to automatically release the grenade, wherein release of the grenade from the grenade -carrier frees the safety lever to pivot relative to the grenade head thereby to activate the grenade.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the loading of the grenade comprises: manually placing the grenade in a grenade seat of the grenade-carrier, such that the grenade head is in a grenade head bay of the grenade-carrier; manually placing the pull ring of the grenade on a movable pin extractor of the pin extractor assembly; and manually pushing a movable clamp toward the grenade head bay, thereby to secure the grenade within the grenade-carrier.

29. The method of claim 27 or claim 28, wherein the loading of the grenadecomprises manually placing the grenade in the grenade seat such that the safety lever of the grenade is exposed, and manually pushing the movable clamp such that the clamp applies pressure to the grenade in an axial direction, which pressure prevents the exposed safety lever from pivoting relative to the grenade head.

30. The method of any one of claims 27 to 29, further comprising, prior to step (b), mounting the grenade-carrier on a delivery vehicle, and guiding the delivery vehicle with the grenade-carrier to a target location for release of the grenade.

31. The method of any one of claims 27 to 30, further comprising, following (b), upon receipt of a warning notification indicative of a failure in removal of the safety- pin, initiating safe disposal of the grenade.

32. The method of any one of claims 27 to 31, further comprising, following (c), upon receipt of a warning notification indicative of a failure in releasing of the grenade from the grenade-carrier, initiating safe disposal of the grenade.

33. The method of any one of claims 27 to 32, further comprising, following (c), retrieving the grenade-carrier for future use thereof.

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