Electrical Primer With PCB Bottom for Reliable Pyrotechnic Ignition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric primers for small caliber ammunition suffer from assembly complexity and poor electrical contact, leading to potential mechanical and electrical failures.
Innovation Solution
A primer design incorporating a printed circuit board that forms part of the primer cup, with a resistor in thermal contact with the pyrotechnic charge, and a conductive washer or brazing for electrical connection, simplifying assembly and ensuring reliable electrical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a thick pole piece is used to obtain good mechanical resistance during detonation, then mechanical strength is improved, but assembly complexity increases and electrical contact reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the pole piece and primer cup into a single integrated component. The pole piece forms the lateral wall and bottom of the primer cup, eliminating the need for separate assembly of these parts. This integration maintains mechanical strength while significantly reducing assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pole piece serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support during detonation, forms the structural container (primer cup), and incorporates electrical contacts for initiating the pyrotechnic charge. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components and assembly steps while maintaining all necessary functions.
2Strength
If a thick pole piece is used to obtain good mechanical resistance during detonation, then mechanical strength is improved, but electrical contact reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pole piece features localized conductive elements (metalized zones) at specific positions for electrical contact, while the rest of the structure maintains its mechanical strength properties. This local differentiation ensures both mechanical resistance and reliable electrical contact without compromising either function.
Solution Approach 2:
The pole piece incorporates composite construction with conductive materials (such as metalized layers or conductive compounds) integrated into the structural body. This allows the pole piece to simultaneously provide mechanical strength and reliable electrical contact paths at the contact surfaces.
3Strength
If multiple assembled parts are used to create the primer, then mechanical resistance is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pole piece and primer cup are merged into a single molded component, eliminating multiple assembly operations. This integration reduces manufacturing steps, lowers production costs, and maintains the mechanical resistance required for safe operation.
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
The design provides a cost-effective, mechanically robust, and safe primer assembly with improved electrical contact, suitable for less lethal weapons, enhancing safety and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical component suitable for producing the thermal energy needed for igniting the pyrotechnic charge
Implementation Method 2
a pyrotechnic (or explosive) charge placed in the primer cup
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a primer for a personal firearm. The primer includes a primer cup including a cylindrical side wall closed at one outer end by a bottom; a pyrotechnic charge placed in the primer cup; an electrical component suitable for producing the thermal energy needed for priming the pyrotechnic charge, the charge being in contact with the electrical component; a printed circuit board, said printed circuit board having an internal face comprising the electrical component in contact with the pyrotechnic charge, characterized in that said printed circuit board forms at least in part the outer bottom of the primer cup.