Initiator Module for Munitions Control Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing initiator modules for explosive devices are prone to premature detonation due to sensitivity to electromagnetic interference and electrostatic discharge, especially when using long electrical conductors, and require critical placement and exposure of shock tubes, which can lead to contamination and waste if not detonated.

Innovation Solution

An initiator module with a mounting portion for shock tubes, an electronics assembly, and a connection to a munitions control system that electronically ignites an exploding foil initiator, reducing exposure risks and allowing for remote activation without exposed conductors, and accommodating various shock tube sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If long electrical conductors are used to connect the initiation device to the explosive charge, then the explosive assembly can be separated from the initiation device, but the sensitivity to electromagnetic interference and electrostatic discharge increases, leading to premature detonation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelength of electrical conductorsVSAvoidsensitivity to electrical interference

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the electrical conductor-based ignition system with a mechanical impact system. A solenoid-driven plunger mechanically strikes a primer to initiate the explosive charge, eliminating the need for long electrical conductors and their associated susceptibility to electromagnetic interference and electrostatic discharge.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a mechanical intermediary (the solenoid-driven plunger and primer assembly) between the initiation device and the explosive charge. This intermediary transfers the initiation energy mechanically rather than electrically, isolating the explosive assembly from electrical interference while maintaining reliable activation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the shock tube is exposed and inserted into the detonation initiator, then the initiator can be configured for use, but the shock tube becomes contaminated or exposed to environmental conditions, and may be wasted if not detonated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration of initiation deviceVSAvoidcontamination and environmental exposure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary action by pre-configuring the shock tube with a crimped seal that maintains its integrity during storage and handling. The shock tube is prepared in advance with all necessary components sealed, allowing the initiator to be configured without exposing the shock tube to environmental contamination.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs nesting by placing the shock tube inside a protective housing or container that shields it from environmental conditions. The shock tube remains nested within its protective enclosure throughout storage and configuration, exposing it only when needed for detonation, thereby preventing contamination while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 solution effectively reduces the risk of premature detonation by electronically igniting shock tubes externally, allowing for remote control and reusability of shock tubes, while minimizing exposure to contaminants and environmental factors, and is less susceptible to electrical interference.

Implementation Method 1

igniting the shock tube with a detonator device disposed within the initiator module proximate to the mount with a signal generated by the munitions control system

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectronic ignition:

Implementation Method 2

electronically igniting an exploding foil initiator

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectExploding foil initiator mechanism:

Data Source

PatentUS10480920B2Methods of igniting devices

Publication Date: 2019.11.19 NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORP

AI summary

Initiator modules for munitions control systems include a mounting portion for receiving a portion of an initiation device, a detonator device disposed within the initiator module, a connection portion configured to connect the initiator module with a munitions control system, and an electronics assembly configured to electronically couple with a munitions control system and transmit a signal to the detonator device. Munitions systems may include initiator modules received in a socket of a munitions control system. Methods of igniting explosive devices include coupling a shock tube to an explosive device, connecting an initiator module to a munitions control system, mounting a portion of the shock tube to the initiator module, and igniting the shock tube with a detonator device disposed within the initiator module.