Munitions Arming Apparatus Frangible Connector Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing arming apparatus for munitions projectiles face challenges in ensuring correct deployment of wind turbines and require complex and error-prone cable routing systems, leading to potential operational failures and increased risk of accidental activation during jettison events.
Innovation Solution
An arming apparatus with a self-contained design featuring distinct coupling arrangements and frangible connectors that simplify installation, reduce the need for long cables and speed tape, and ensure that both arming units are activated for live releases, while providing a mechanism to indicate release events and prevent accidental activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If long lengths of lanyards are used to deploy the wind turbine, then the wind turbine can be deployed at acceptable angles, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The arming apparatus is divided into separate modular components including the arming unit, linking connector, and arming clip that can be independently assembled and tested. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The wind turbine deployment function is extracted as a separate operational phase from the arming mechanism. The arming apparatus focuses solely on providing the mechanical input for fuze activation, while wind turbine deployment is handled by separate release mechanisms.
2Reliability
If additional retaining wires and arming connectors are added to ensure lanyard release, then the store release reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The arming connector is merged with the linking connector as a single integrated component. This combining eliminates the need for separate retaining wires and multiple connection points, simplifying the cable routing while maintaining reliable connection between the arming unit and store.
Solution Approach 2:
The linking connector serves multiple functions: it provides the mechanical link between arming units, acts as the arming connector for fuze activation, and serves as the release point for the arming apparatus. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
3Reliability
If speed tape is used to secure arming connectors and wires, then the store carriage reliability improves, but the risk of tape peeling and operational failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The speed tape securing method is extracted and replaced with a mechanical fastening system using the frangible connector and arming clip assembly. This eliminates the adhesive-based tape system that was prone to peeling under high-speed flight conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The frangible connectors are designed as single-use, disposable components that provide secure fastening during carriage but are intended to break and release during store deployment. This replaces the reusable but unreliable speed tape system with purpose-built expendable fasteners.
4Reliability
If hard-wired connections are used for power transfer, then the power transfer reliability improves, but the device complexity and routing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical power transfer system is replaced with a mechanical input system. The arming apparatus provides purely mechanical action (through the frangible connector breaking and arming clip engagement) to activate the fuze, eliminating the need for electrical wires, connectors, and associated routing infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an arming apparatus for a store, the apparatus comprising: a first attachment system and a second attachment system; a linking connector coupled with the first attachment system and the second attachment system; and an arming clip; wherein each of the first attachment system and the second attachment system comprises: a first frangible connector coupled with the arming unit and the linking connector; and a second frangible connector coupled with the linking connector and the store. The linking connector is coupled to the first attachment system via a first coupling arrangement and is coupled to the second attachment system via a second coupling arrangement, wherein the first coupling arrangement and the second coupling arrangement are different. Each of the first coupling arrangement and the second coupling arrangement are manually secure.