Thermite Transducer Assembly for Aircraft Ejection Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical systems that utilize thermal batteries for powering electronics are costly and bulky, and there is a need for a more efficient method to convert pyrochemical signals into electrical signals for applications such as aircraft ejection systems.
Innovation Solution
A transducer assembly comprising a magnet, a hollow tube wrapped around the magnet forming a coil, thermite disposed within the tube, and a conductive element at the outlet, which undergoes an exothermic reduction-oxidation reaction to generate a brief electrical pulse when ignited, converting pyrotechnic inputs into electrical outputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If thermal batteries are used to provide current for power electronics, then sustained low power current is achieved, but the system becomes costly and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the reaction by using thermite (aluminum powder and metal oxide) instead of traditional thermal battery chemistry. This exothermic reduction-oxidation reaction produces a brief high-voltage pulse rather than sustained low-power current, fundamentally altering the electrical output characteristics while reducing weight and cost
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a disposable pyrotechnic-based transducer assembly that generates electrical pulses through a single-use exothermic reaction. The thermite reaction occurs once upon ignition and depletes the reactants, creating a brief but high-energy electrical pulse without requiring a reusable battery system
2Power
If thermal batteries are used to provide current for power electronics, then sustained low power current is achieved, but the system becomes costly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs a disposable pyrotechnic-based transducer assembly that generates electrical pulses through a single-use exothermic reaction. The thermite reaction occurs once upon ignition and depletes the reactants, creating a brief but high-energy electrical pulse without requiring a reusable battery system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical/electrochemical system of thermal batteries with a pyrotechnic chemical reaction system. The exothermic reduction-oxidation reaction of thermite directly converts chemical energy to electrical energy through electromagnetic induction, eliminating the need for complex battery assemblies
3Volume of moving object
If a pyrotechnic-based transducer assembly is used, then a compact and cost-effective solution is achieved, but only brief high peak voltage pulses are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses periodic or pulsed action inherent in the pyrotechnic reaction - a brief, intense exothermic reaction that occurs over a short duration. The rapid combustion of thermite produces a sudden electromagnetic pulse that can be timed and synchronized with specific operational requirements, such as triggering ejection seat mechanisms at precise moments
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 transducer assembly effectively converts pyrotechnic inputs into high peak voltage electrical signals, enabling efficient power delivery and providing a compact, cost-effective solution for applications like aircraft ejection systems, capable of destroying internal circuitry or providing time delays as needed.
Implementation Method 1
the thermite undergoes an exothermic reduction-oxidation reaction
Implementation Method 2
thermite disposed in the hollow tube
Implementation Method 3
a magnet; a hollow tube wrapped around the magnet and forming a coil around the magnet
Data Source
AI summary
A transducer assembly configured to convert a pyrotechnic initiation to an electrical signal may comprise a magnet, a hollow tube, and a conductive element. The hollow tube may be wrapped around the magnet in the shape of a coil. The hollow tube may be at least partially filled with a thermite. The conductive element may be coupled to an outlet of the hollow tube. The conductive element may seal the outlet of the hollow tube.