Combustible Inner-Wall Charges for Uniform Ammunition Ignition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ignition systems for ammunition with large internal footprints face challenges in achieving homogeneous ignition distribution, require complex assembly, and compromise propulsive performance when incorporating functional additives or energetic charges.

Innovation Solution

The use of cellulose ester-based combustible charges, in the form of geometric patterns, adhering to the inner wall of the combustible structure, which can function as ignition relays, deliver functional additives, or provide energetic support, without the need for additional fastening or complex assembly, and are adaptable to various ammunition types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If corded ignition relays are distributed throughout the propellant charge, then ignition distribution is improved, but assembly complexity increases and modularity is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveignition distributionVSAvoidassembly complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ignition system is segmented into modular cartridges that can be independently positioned and assembled. Each cartridge contains integrated ignition elements that can be distributed throughout the propellant charge, achieving reliable ignition distribution while maintaining assembly simplicity through standardized modular units.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The ignition cartridges are designed as universal components that can serve multiple functions: primary ignition, secondary ignition relay, and positioning elements. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying assembly while maintaining reliable ignition distribution throughout the propellant charge.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If functional additives are incorporated into the propellant charge, then performance is improved, but mechanical properties are degraded

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepropulsive performanceVSAvoidmechanical properties

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

Functional additives are extracted from the propellant charge matrix and placed into separate combustible cartridges. This separation allows the propellant charge to maintain its mechanical integrity while the cartridges deliver functional additives (such as anti-glow, anti-copper, or anti-erosion agents) during combustion, preserving both mechanical properties and propulsive performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

Combustible cartridges serve as intermediary carriers for functional additives. These cartridges are positioned within the propellant charge and deliver additives during combustion without requiring direct incorporation into the propellant grains, thus protecting the mechanical properties of the propellant while achieving the desired functional effects.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Use of energy by moving object

If energetic charges are increased to improve propulsive energy, then energy output is improved, but safety and handling constraints increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepropulsive energyVSAvoidsafety constraints

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The energetic charge is segmented into multiple smaller cartridges distributed throughout the propellant charge rather than using one large concentrated charge. This segmentation reduces the hazard level of each individual component, improving safety and handling while maintaining the total propulsive energy output through the combined effect of multiple cartridges.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different cartridges contain different types and concentrations of energetic materials based on local requirements within the propellant charge. This allows optimization of energy distribution throughout the charge while using lower concentrations in individual cartridges, reducing safety constraints while achieving the required total energy output.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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

Ensures uniform ignition, progressive delivery of additives, and increased energetic charge ratios without degrading mechanical or ignition properties, facilitating easier installation and improved propulsive performance.

Implementation Method 1

at least one cellulose ester-based combustible charge being deposited in the form of a solid geometric volume pattern adhering to the inner wall of the combustible structure

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Implementation Method 2

an ignition device for initiating combustion

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCombustion: Combustion

Implementation Method 3

This ignition device, which initiates combustion of the ammunition

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDeflagration: Deflagration

Data Source

PatentUS20260098714A1Combustible charges adhering to the inner wall of a combustible structure containing a propellant charge

Publication Date: 2026.04.09 EURENCO FRANCE SAS

AI summary

An ammunition containing, in a combustible structure based on a cellulose, a propellant charge of powder grains and an ignition device, in which in the ammunition at least one combustible charge based on is deposited in the form of a solid geometric volume pattern adhering to the inner wall of the combustible, cellulose ester-based structure.