Initiator Assembly Integrating Switch Capabilities Without Footprint Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing low energy exploding foil initiators (LEEFIs) face challenges in integrating switch capabilities due to the increased size and cost of stand-alone or integrated switch devices, making it difficult to package them within the device to be ignited or detonated without expanding the footprint.
Innovation Solution
An initiator assembly with a base, first contact, electrically insulating members, a bridge, and a flyer layer, where the bridge is vaporized by electrical power to expel a portion of the flyer layer from the barrel, integrating switch capabilities without increasing the device's footprint by directing electrical discharge vertically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a stand-alone switch device is used, then switch capabilities are provided, but the device becomes costly and difficult to package
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the switch device with the initiator assembly by integrating the switch housing with the initiator housing, combining two previously separate devices into one unified structure. This integration allows the switch capabilities to be incorporated without increasing packaging difficulty, as the merged device occupies a single package space rather than requiring separate accommodation for both switch and initiator.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a switch device is integrated into the LEEFI, then switch capabilities are provided at lower cost, but the footprint of the LEEFI significantly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the switch assembly within the initiator housing structure. The switch housing is integrated into the initiator housing, with the switch assembly nested within the overall initiator assembly footprint. This nested arrangement allows the switch components to be accommodated within the existing boundary envelope, preventing footprint expansion while maintaining switch functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the footprint of the LEEFI is increased to incorporate switching capabilities, then switch capabilities are provided, but the device size becomes unacceptably large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar two-dimensional arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration by stacking components vertically. The switch assembly is positioned above the initiator charge assembly in the vertical dimension, utilizing the Z-axis rather than expanding in the X-Y plane. This dimensional change allows both switch and initiator functions to coexist within the same footprint boundaries without increasing overall device size.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the integration of switch capabilities within the LEEFI without increasing its size, enhancing safety and reliability while maintaining the compact design of the initiator assembly.
Implementation Method 1
applying electrical power to the first switch element to vaporize the bridge, wherein vaporization of the bridge causes a portion of the flyer layer within the barrel aperture to be expelled from the barrel
Implementation Method 2
applying electrical power to the first switch element to vaporize the bridge
Data Source
AI summary
An initiator assembly having a base, first and second conductive elements, a first electrically insulating member and an energetic material. The first conductive element, which is configured to receive an electrical input, is coupled to the base and includes a tip. The first electrically insulating member is disposed over the tip. The second conductive element has a bridge that is disposed over the first electrically insulating member. The bridge is configured to vaporize in response to transmission of the electrical input from the tip of the first conductive element to the bridge. The energetic material is disposed over the bridge. Energy produced during vaporization of the bridge is transmitted to the energetic material to initiate at least one of a combustion event, a deflagration event and a detonation event in the energetic material. A method for operating an initiator assembly is also provided.