EP0545799B1 - Serial control apparatus using pyrotechnic fuse - Google Patents

Serial control apparatus using pyrotechnic fuse Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0545799B1
EP0545799B1 EP92403223A EP92403223A EP0545799B1 EP 0545799 B1 EP0545799 B1 EP 0545799B1 EP 92403223 A EP92403223 A EP 92403223A EP 92403223 A EP92403223 A EP 92403223A EP 0545799 B1 EP0545799 B1 EP 0545799B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pyrotechnic cord
cord
pyrotechnic
memory alloy
shape
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Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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EP92403223A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0545799A1 (en
Inventor
Alain Dolivet
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Airbus Group SAS
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Airbus Group SAS
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H37/00—Thermally-actuated switches
    • H01H37/02—Details
    • H01H37/32—Thermally-sensitive members
    • H01H37/323—Thermally-sensitive members making use of shape memory materials
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42D—BLASTING
    • F42D1/00—Blasting methods or apparatus, e.g. loading or tamping
    • F42D1/04—Arrangements for ignition

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a successive control device, according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • the purpose of the device is to control at least one operation or a technical function, using a pyrotechnic cord, the ignition of which is obtained by appropriate triggering means.
  • the successive control device of the type comprising at least one pyrotechnic cord and means for triggering the operation of said pyrotechnic cord, is characterized, according to the invention, in that it comprises at least one element made of a shape memory alloy with two stable states, and arranged along said pyrotechnic cord, said element being capable of controlling a subsequent operation when it passes from one of its two stable states, for which the element occupies a neutral position , towards its other stable state for which it occupies an active position, under the action of the heat released by said pyrotechnic cord following the triggering of the latter.
  • thermo energy generated by the pyrotechnic cord to cause the change of state of the element made of a shape memory alloy, and then control a subsequent operation which can be mechanical, electrical or other.
  • shape memory alloys have the particularity of having, in the solid state, two stable crystal structures (one in the austenitic phase, the other in the martensitic phase) respectively in two different temperature ranges , which each correspond to a specific phase of the crystal structure of the alloy and which are separated by an intermediate zone called the transition temperature. So, depending temperature, the part made of such an alloy can take two distinct stable configurations, reversibly. For example, these alloys are metallic, of the nickel-titanium or copper-zinc-aluminum type, depending on the applications.
  • the method consists, for example, of producing the part in a first form when its crystalline structure is in the austenitic phase, in the temperature range corresponding to this phase, at cool the part, crossing the transition temperature zone, to its temperature range corresponding to its martensitic phase, and to apply a specific constraint to give it a second form. After returning to room temperature, the part retains this second form and its mechanical characteristics are recovered. An increase in temperature beyond the transition zone allows the part to pass from its second form to its first initial form.
  • said element made of a shape memory alloy acts, when it passes to its stable state corresponding to its active position, on electrical contact means which authorize the control of the subsequent operation.
  • the deformation of the element produced by its change of state can be used, in this case, to establish the electrical connection in an appropriate circuit and trigger said operation.
  • said element made of a shape memory alloy acts, when it passes to its stable state corresponding to its active position, on mechanical means which authorize the control of the subsequent operation.
  • said element can release, following its change of state and therefore of shape, a mechanical device.
  • a plurality of elements in shape memory alloy are arranged, in a spaced manner, along said pyrotechnic cord, to each control a subsequent operation, when they pass successively to their active position under the action of the heat given off. gradually by said pyrotechnic cord.
  • said element is in the form of a bar in contact with said pyrotechnic cord.
  • the cross section of said strip is polygonal. We thus note the extreme simplicity of making said bars.
  • said pyrotechnic cord is housed in a recess of a part, in which is also arranged said element in shape memory alloy. More particularly, said element is disposed between the bottom of said recess and said pyrotechnic cord.
  • said means for triggering said pyrotechnic cord may include an electrical supply connected to a chemical initiation composition in contact with a heating chemical composition connected to said pyrotechnic cord.
  • the pyrotechnic cord it is of the delay type and consists of a slow fusing chemical composition, wrapped in a metallic sheath.
  • Figure 1 shows a schematic view of the control device according to the invention.
  • FIG. 2 shows a particular example of mounting on a part of said device, the shape memory alloy element of which occupies a neutral position.
  • Figure 3 is a cross section along line III-III of Figure 2.
  • Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 2, but in which the element of the device occupies an active position authorizing the control of a subsequent operation.
  • FIG. 5 is a cross section along the line V-V in FIG. 4.
  • the control device 1 illustrated diagrammatically in FIG. 1, comprises a pyrotechnic cord 2 and means 3 for triggering the operation of said cord.
  • the pyrotechnic cord 2 is of the "delay" type, so that it is constituted by a slow fusing chemical composition 4 known per se, and surrounded by a sheath 5.
  • the latter is of preferably metallic, for example made of tin or lead or a similar material with a low melting point.
  • the triggering means 3 are in particular defined by a chemical initiation composition 6 and by a heating chemical composition 7, arranged side by side inside a housing 8.
  • the initiation composition 6 is also traversed by a filament 9A of an externally controlled electrical supply circuit 9, while the upstream end 2A of the pyrotechnic cord 2 is engaged in the heating composition 7.
  • the device 1 comprises a plurality of elements 10 made of a shape memory alloy with two stable states and arranged, spaced apart from each other, along the pyrotechnic cord 2
  • elements 10 are intended to control respectively and successively subsequent operations when they pass from one stable state to the other, as explained previously, under the action of the heat generated, in this case, by the combustion of said pyrotechnic cord 2.
  • each element 10 is, in this embodiment, in the form of a bar 11 having a polygonal cross section, for example rectangular.
  • the bar 11 shown made of a shape memory alloy, is parallelepipedic and occupies, in this case, a neutral position corresponding to one of its two stable states and for which the subsequent operation does not can be triggered, since cord 2 is not lit.
  • the cord 2 and the bars 11, which are successively attached to it in a spaced manner are advantageously housed in a recess 12 formed in a structural part 13, and having a U-shaped cross section.
  • each bar 11 then in the neutral, straight position is engaged in the recess 12 of the part, to be applied, by two of its longitudinal faces 11A and 11B perpendicular, respectively against the bottom 12A and the corresponding wing 12B of the U-shaped recess. It is also noted in FIGS.
  • the pyrotechnic cord 2 is then inserted between the wings 12B and 12C of the recess 12, so that the external periphery 5A of its sheath 5 is applied against the longitudinal face 11D of the bars, opposite that 11A bearing against the bottom 12A of the recess.
  • the external diameter of the cord 2 is preferably at least equal to the width of the recess 12, to ensure that it is held in the latter.
  • the deformable nature of the cord inherent in the nature of its sheath, makes it easy to adapt it to any type of desired path, provided on said structural part and imposed in this case by the recess.
  • electrical contact means 14 shown diagrammatically in FIGS. 2 to 5 are used.
  • two electrical contacts 14A and 14B are provided on the 'wing 12B of the recess, on which the respective ends 11B1 and 11B2 of the longitudinal face 11B of the illustrated bar rest.
  • Another 14C electrical contact is in turn provided on the opposite wing 12C of the recess and it is substantially located opposite and in the middle of the longitudinal face 11C of the bar, as shown in particular in Figure 2.
  • These contacts 14A, 14B, 14C are part of an electrical circuit defining the means 14, and with which is associated a member 14D, such as a motor, intended to control a subsequent operation, symbolized by the arrow F in FIGS. 2 and 4.
  • FIGS. 4 and 5 it can be seen that in the active position of the strip, corresponding to the other of its two stable states, the electrical connection between the contacts is established since the strip has an arcuate configuration, its face 11C coming to apply against contact 14C.
  • the procedure is for example as follows.
  • the bar 11 is produced in the form shown in particular in FIG. 4. This is acquired while the crystal structure constituting the bar is in its austenitic phase corresponding to its first stable state.
  • the bar thus produced has an arcuate shape, of rectangular section.
  • the bar is cooled to a temperature such that its crystal structure is in the martensitic phase, and it is deformed to make it take its parallelepipedal configuration shown in FIG. 2.
  • the bar 11 is in its second stable state corresponding to its neutral position. After returning to ambient temperature, this new shape of the bar is acquired and its mechanical characteristics found.
  • the operation of the successive control device 1 is as follows. After the slow fusing composition 4 of the pyrotechnic cord 2 has been ignited by means of the triggering means 3, the combustion front progressively propagates inside the sheath 5 of said cord at a speed of a few millimeters per second , which depends on the chemical nature of the composition 4. This combustion gives off heat, the temperature reached of which is high enough to melt the metal sheath 5 of tin or lead, the melting point of which is relatively low.
  • the motor 14D of said circuit 14 can trigger the subsequent operation F.
  • the combustion front of the pyrotechnic cord 2 continues to progress in order to successively cause the change of state of the downstream bars 11, spaced apart from one another along the cord, and each of which can control, via the electrical contact means 14, a specific operation.
  • a chain reaction is therefore carried out making it possible, from a pyrotechnic cord triggered by a single electrical command, to successively control a plurality of subsequent operations.
  • the time interval between the instant of ignition of the pyrotechnic cord and the command of the subsequent operation generated by the change of state of one of the strips is a function of the nature of the fusing chemical composition employed and the length of cord to be used up to this bar.

Description

La présente invention concerne un dispositif de commande successive, selon le préambule de la revendication 1.The present invention relates to a successive control device, according to the preamble of claim 1.

Un tel dispositif est décrit, par exemple, dans le document EP-A-0 296 053.Such a device is described, for example, in document EP-A-0 296 053.

Plus particulièrement, le dispositif a pour but de commander au moins une opération ou une fonction technique, à partir d'un cordeau pyrotechnique dont la mise à feu est obtenue par des moyens de déclenchement appropriés.More particularly, the purpose of the device is to control at least one operation or a technical function, using a pyrotechnic cord, the ignition of which is obtained by appropriate triggering means.

A cet effet, le dispositif de commande successive, du type comportant au moins un cordeau pyrotechnique et des moyens pour déclencher le fonctionnement dudit cordeau pyrotechnique, est caractérisé, selon l'invention, en ce qu'il comprend au moins un élément réalisé en un alliage à mémoire de forme à deux états stables, et disposé le long dudit cordeau pyrotechnique, ledit élément étant susceptible de commander une opération subséquente lorsqu'il passe de l'un de ses deux états stables, pour lequel l'élément occupe une position neutre, vers son autre état stable pour lequel il occupe une position active, sous l'action de la chaleur dégagée par ledit cordeau pyrotechnique à la suite du déclenchement de ce dernier.To this end, the successive control device, of the type comprising at least one pyrotechnic cord and means for triggering the operation of said pyrotechnic cord, is characterized, according to the invention, in that it comprises at least one element made of a shape memory alloy with two stable states, and arranged along said pyrotechnic cord, said element being capable of controlling a subsequent operation when it passes from one of its two stable states, for which the element occupies a neutral position , towards its other stable state for which it occupies an active position, under the action of the heat released by said pyrotechnic cord following the triggering of the latter.

Ainsi, on utilise l'énergie thermique engendrée par le cordeau pyrotechnique pour provoquer le changement d'état de l'élément réalisé en un alliage à mémoire de forme, et commander alors une opération subséquente qui peut être mécanique, électrique ou autre.Thus, we use the thermal energy generated by the pyrotechnic cord to cause the change of state of the element made of a shape memory alloy, and then control a subsequent operation which can be mechanical, electrical or other.

En effet, on sait que les alliages à mémoire de forme présentent la particularité de posséder, à l'état solide, deux structures cristallines stables (l'une en phase austénitique, l'autre en phase martensitique) respectivement dans deux domaines de température différents, qui correspondent chacun à une phase spécifique de la structure cristalline de l'alliage et qui sont séparés par une zone intermédiaire dite de température de transition. De la sorte, en fonction de la température, la pièce réalisée en un tel alliage peut prendre deux configurations distinctes stables, de façon réversible. A titre d'exemple, ces alliages sont métalliques, du type nickel-titane ou cuivre-zinc-aluminium, selon les applications.Indeed, we know that shape memory alloys have the particularity of having, in the solid state, two stable crystal structures (one in the austenitic phase, the other in the martensitic phase) respectively in two different temperature ranges , which each correspond to a specific phase of the crystal structure of the alloy and which are separated by an intermediate zone called the transition temperature. So, depending temperature, the part made of such an alloy can take two distinct stable configurations, reversibly. For example, these alloys are metallic, of the nickel-titanium or copper-zinc-aluminum type, depending on the applications.

Pour obtenir une pièce ayant ces propriétés à partir d'un tel alliage, le procédé consiste, par exemple, à réaliser la pièce sous une première forme lorsque sa structure cristalline est en phase austénitique, dans le domaine de température correspondant à cette phase, à refroidir la pièce, en franchissant la zone de température de transition, jusqu'à son domaine de température correspondant à sa phase martensitique, et à lui appliquer une contrainte spécifique pour lui donner une seconde forme. Après le retour à la température ambiante, la pièce conserve cette seconde forme et ses caractéristiques mécaniques sont retrouvées. Une augmentation de température au-delà de la zone de transition permet à la pièce de passer de sa seconde forme vers sa première forme initiale.To obtain a part having these properties from such an alloy, the method consists, for example, of producing the part in a first form when its crystalline structure is in the austenitic phase, in the temperature range corresponding to this phase, at cool the part, crossing the transition temperature zone, to its temperature range corresponding to its martensitic phase, and to apply a specific constraint to give it a second form. After returning to room temperature, the part retains this second form and its mechanical characteristics are recovered. An increase in temperature beyond the transition zone allows the part to pass from its second form to its first initial form.

Dans un premier exemple préféré de réalisation, ledit élément réalisé en un alliage à mémoire de forme agit, lorsqu'il passe vers son état stable correspondant à sa position active, sur des moyens de contact électriques qui autorisent la commande de l'opération subséquente. Ainsi, la déformation de l'élément produite par son changement d'état peut servir, dans ce cas, à établir la liaison électrique dans un circuit approprié et déclencher ladite opération.In a first preferred embodiment, said element made of a shape memory alloy acts, when it passes to its stable state corresponding to its active position, on electrical contact means which authorize the control of the subsequent operation. Thus, the deformation of the element produced by its change of state can be used, in this case, to establish the electrical connection in an appropriate circuit and trigger said operation.

Dans un second exemple préféré de réalisation, ledit élément réalisé en un alliage à mémoire de forme agit, lorsqu'il passe vers son état stable correspondant à sa position active, sur des moyens mécaniques qui autorisent la commande de l'opération subséquente. Dans ce cas, ledit élément peut libérer, suite à son changement d'état et donc de forme, un dispositif mécanique.In a second preferred embodiment, said element made of a shape memory alloy acts, when it passes to its stable state corresponding to its active position, on mechanical means which authorize the control of the subsequent operation. In this case, said element can release, following its change of state and therefore of shape, a mechanical device.

Avantageusement, une pluralité d'éléments en alliage à mémoire de forme sont disposés, de façon espacée, le long dudit cordeau pyrotechnique, pour commander chacun une opération subséquente, lorsqu'ils passent successivement vers leur position active sous l'action de la chaleur dégagée progressivement par ledit cordeau pyrotechnique. On crée ainsi un dispositif permettant de commander, à partir d'un cordeau pyrotechnique, une réaction en chaîne d'opérations techniques subséquentes, mécaniques, électriques, etc..., à des instants précis, fonction de la nature de la composition chimique du cordeau et de la longueur de cordeau à utiliser depuis son origine jusqu'aux différents éléments.Advantageously, a plurality of elements in shape memory alloy are arranged, in a spaced manner, along said pyrotechnic cord, to each control a subsequent operation, when they pass successively to their active position under the action of the heat given off. gradually by said pyrotechnic cord. This creates a device for controlling, from a pyrotechnic cord, a chain reaction of subsequent technical operations, mechanical, electrical, etc ..., at specific times, depending on the nature of the chemical composition of the cord and the length of cord to use from its origin to the various elements.

Dans un mode préféré de réalisation, ledit élément se présente sous la forme d'une barrette au contact dudit cordeau pyrotechnique. En outre, la section transversale de ladite barrette est polygonale. On remarque ainsi l'extrême simplicité de réalisation desdites barrettes.In a preferred embodiment, said element is in the form of a bar in contact with said pyrotechnic cord. In addition, the cross section of said strip is polygonal. We thus note the extreme simplicity of making said bars.

De préférence, ledit cordeau pyrotechnique est logé dans un évidement d'une pièce, dans lequel est également agencé ledit élément en alliage à mémoire de forme. Plus particulièrement, ledit élément est disposé entre le fond dudit évidement et ledit cordeau pyrotechnique.Preferably, said pyrotechnic cord is housed in a recess of a part, in which is also arranged said element in shape memory alloy. More particularly, said element is disposed between the bottom of said recess and said pyrotechnic cord.

Par ailleurs, lesdits moyens pour déclencher ledit cordeau pyrotechnique peuvent comprendre une alimentation électrique reliée à une composition chimique d'amorçage au contact d'une composition chimique chauffante reliée audit cordeau pyrotechnique. Quant au cordeau pyrotechnique, il est du type retard et constitué par une composition chimique fusante lente, enveloppée dans une gaine métallique.Furthermore, said means for triggering said pyrotechnic cord may include an electrical supply connected to a chemical initiation composition in contact with a heating chemical composition connected to said pyrotechnic cord. As for the pyrotechnic cord, it is of the delay type and consists of a slow fusing chemical composition, wrapped in a metallic sheath.

Les figures du dessin annexé feront bien comprendre comment l'invention peut être réalisée. Sur ces figures, des références identiques désignent des éléments semblables.The figures of the appended drawing will make it clear how the invention can be implemented. In these figures, identical references designate similar elements.

La figure 1 représente une vue schématique du dispositif de commande conforme à l'invention.Figure 1 shows a schematic view of the control device according to the invention.

La figure 2 montre un exemple particulier de montage sur une pièce dudit dispositif, dont l'élément en alliage à mémoire de forme occupe une position neutre.FIG. 2 shows a particular example of mounting on a part of said device, the shape memory alloy element of which occupies a neutral position.

La figure 3 est une coupe transversale selon la ligne III-III de la figure 2.Figure 3 is a cross section along line III-III of Figure 2.

La figure 4 est une vue analogue à la figure 2, mais dans laquelle l'élément du dispositif occupe une position active autorisant la commande d'une opération subséquente.Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 2, but in which the element of the device occupies an active position authorizing the control of a subsequent operation.

La figure 5 est une coupe transversale selon la ligne V-V de la figure 4.FIG. 5 is a cross section along the line V-V in FIG. 4.

Le dispositif de commande 1, illustré schématiquement sur la figure 1, comporte un cordeau pyrotechnique 2 et des moyens 3 pour déclencher le fonctionnement dudit cordeau. Dans cet exemple particulier de réalisation dudit dispositif, le cordeau pyrotechnique 2 est du type "retard", de sorte qu'il est constitué par une composition chimique fusante lente 4 connue en soi, et entourée d'une gaine 5. Cette dernière est de préférence métallique, réalisée par exemple en étain ou en plomb ou en une matière analogue à bas point de fusion.The control device 1, illustrated diagrammatically in FIG. 1, comprises a pyrotechnic cord 2 and means 3 for triggering the operation of said cord. In this particular embodiment of said device, the pyrotechnic cord 2 is of the "delay" type, so that it is constituted by a slow fusing chemical composition 4 known per se, and surrounded by a sheath 5. The latter is of preferably metallic, for example made of tin or lead or a similar material with a low melting point.

Les moyens de déclenchement 3 sont notamment définis par une composition chimique d'amorçage 6 et par une composition chimique chauffante 7, disposées côte à côte à l'intérieur d'un boîtier 8. La composition d'amorçage 6 est traversée par ailleurs par un filament 9A d'un circuit d'alimentation électrique 9 commandé extérieurement, tandis que l'extrémité amont 2A du cordeau pyrotechnique 2 est engagée dans la composition chauffante 7.The triggering means 3 are in particular defined by a chemical initiation composition 6 and by a heating chemical composition 7, arranged side by side inside a housing 8. The initiation composition 6 is also traversed by a filament 9A of an externally controlled electrical supply circuit 9, while the upstream end 2A of the pyrotechnic cord 2 is engaged in the heating composition 7.

Par conséquent, la mise sous tension du circuit d'alimentation électrique 9 provoque le chauffage du filament 9A, lequel entraîne la mise à feu de la composition d'amorçage 6 qui elle-même produit l'allumage de la composition chauffante 7. Cette dernière assure à son tour la mise à feu de la composition fusante lente 4 dudit cordeau pyrotechnique. Tout autre type de moyens 3 pourrait être bien entendu envisagé pour commander l'allumage dudit cordeau.Consequently, the energization of the electrical supply circuit 9 causes the filament 9A to heat, which causes the ignition composition 6 to ignite, which itself produces the ignition of the heating composition 7. The latter in turn ensures the ignition of the slow fusing composition 4 of said pyrotechnic cord. Any other type of means 3 could of course be envisaged for controlling the ignition of said cord.

Selon un mode préféré de réalisation de l'invention, le dispositif 1 comprend une pluralité d'éléments 10 réalisés en un alliage à mémoire de forme à deux états stables et disposés, de façon espacée les uns des autres, le long du cordeau pyrotechnique 2. A titre d'exemple, deux éléments 10 ont été représentés sur la figure 1, lesquels sont au contact de la gaine 5 dudit cordeau. Ces éléments 10, réalisés en un alliage à mémoire de forme, ont pour but de commander respectivement et successivement des opérations subséquentes lorsqu'ils passent d'un état stable vers l'autre, comme on l'a expliqué préalablement, sous l'action de la chaleur engendrée, dans le cas présent, par la combustion dudit cordeau pyrotechnique 2.According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device 1 comprises a plurality of elements 10 made of a shape memory alloy with two stable states and arranged, spaced apart from each other, along the pyrotechnic cord 2 By way of example, two elements 10 have been shown in FIG. 1, which are in contact with the sheath 5 of said cord. These elements 10, made of a shape memory alloy, are intended to control respectively and successively subsequent operations when they pass from one stable state to the other, as explained previously, under the action of the heat generated, in this case, by the combustion of said pyrotechnic cord 2.

Plus particulièrement, comme le montrent les figures 2 et 3, chaque élément 10 se présente, dans ce mode de réalisation, sous la forme d'une barrette 11 ayant une section transversale polygonale, par exemple rectangulaire. On voit sur ces figures que la barrette 11 représentée, réalisée en un alliage à mémoire de forme, est parallélépipédique et occupe, dans ce cas, une position neutre correspondant à l'un de ses deux états stables et pour laquelle l'opération subséquente ne peut être déclenchée, puisque le cordeau 2 n'est pas allumé.More particularly, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, each element 10 is, in this embodiment, in the form of a bar 11 having a polygonal cross section, for example rectangular. We see in these figures that the bar 11 shown, made of a shape memory alloy, is parallelepipedic and occupies, in this case, a neutral position corresponding to one of its two stable states and for which the subsequent operation does not can be triggered, since cord 2 is not lit.

Dans cet exemple de montage particulier, le cordeau 2 et les barrettes 11, qui lui sont successivement rapportées de façon espacée, sont logés avantageusement dans un évidement 12 ménagé dans une pièce de structure 13, et ayant une section transversale en U. Ainsi, chaque barrette 11 alors en position neutre, droite, est engagée dans l'évidement 12 de la pièce, pour s'appliquer, par deux de ses faces longitudinales 11A et 11B perpendiculaires, respectivement contre le fond 12A et l'aile correspondante 12B de l'évidement en U. On remarque par ailleurs sur les figures 2 et 3, que la face longitudinale 11C de la barrette illustrée 11, opposée à sa face 11B au contact de l'aile 12B, est distante de l'aile en regard 12C dudit évidement, la distance séparant les faces 11B et 11C de chacune des barrettes étant inférieure à la largeur de l'évidement en U 12, séparant ses ailes.In this particular mounting example, the cord 2 and the bars 11, which are successively attached to it in a spaced manner, are advantageously housed in a recess 12 formed in a structural part 13, and having a U-shaped cross section. Thus, each bar 11 then in the neutral, straight position, is engaged in the recess 12 of the part, to be applied, by two of its longitudinal faces 11A and 11B perpendicular, respectively against the bottom 12A and the corresponding wing 12B of the U-shaped recess. It is also noted in FIGS. 2 and 3, that the longitudinal face 11C of the illustrated bar 11, opposite its face 11B in contact with the wing 12B, is distant from the opposite wing 12C of said recess, the distance separating the faces 11B and 11C of each of the bars being less than the width of the U-shaped recess 12, separating its wings.

Le cordeau pyrotechnique 2 est ensuite inséré entre les ailes 12B et 12C de l'évidement 12, de façon que la périphérie externe 5A de sa gaine 5 s'applique contre la face longitudinale 11D des barrettes, opposée à celle 11A en appui contre le fond 12A de l'évidement. Ainsi, le contact entre le cordeau et chaque barrette s'établit parfaitement, ce qui favorise le transfert de la chaleur vers les barrettes lorsque le cordeau est en ignition. Le diamètre externe du cordeau 2 est de préférence au moins égal à la largeur de l'évidement 12, pour assurer son maintien dans ce dernier. En outre, le caractère déformable du cordeau, inhérent à la nature de sa gaine, permet de l'adapter aisément à tout type de cheminement souhaité, prévu sur ladite pièce de structure et imposé dans ce cas par l'évidement.The pyrotechnic cord 2 is then inserted between the wings 12B and 12C of the recess 12, so that the external periphery 5A of its sheath 5 is applied against the longitudinal face 11D of the bars, opposite that 11A bearing against the bottom 12A of the recess. Thus, the contact between the cord and each bar is perfectly established, which promotes the transfer of heat to the bars when the cord is in ignition. The external diameter of the cord 2 is preferably at least equal to the width of the recess 12, to ensure that it is held in the latter. In addition, the deformable nature of the cord, inherent in the nature of its sheath, makes it easy to adapt it to any type of desired path, provided on said structural part and imposed in this case by the recess.

Aussi, pour commander au moyen de chaque barrette une opération ultérieure, on utilise dans cet exemple de réalisation du dispositif 1 des moyens de contact électriques 14 représentés schématiquement sur les figures 2 à 5. Ainsi, deux contacts électriques 14A et 14B sont prévus sur l'aile 12B de l'évidement, sur lesquels reposent les extrémités respectives 11B1 et 11B2 de la face longitudinale 11B de la barrette illustrée. Un autre contact électrique 14C est quant à lui prévu sur l'aile opposée 12C de l'évidement et il est sensiblement situé en regard et au milieu de la face longitudinale 11C de la barrette, comme le montre notamment la figure 2. Ces contacts 14A,14B,14C font partie d'un circuit électrique définissant les moyens 14, et auquel est associé un organe 14D, tel qu'un moteur, destiné à commander une opération subséquente, symbolisée par la flèche F sur les figures 2 et 4.Also, to control by means of each bar a subsequent operation, in this embodiment of the device 1, electrical contact means 14 shown diagrammatically in FIGS. 2 to 5 are used. Thus, two electrical contacts 14A and 14B are provided on the 'wing 12B of the recess, on which the respective ends 11B1 and 11B2 of the longitudinal face 11B of the illustrated bar rest. Another 14C electrical contact is in turn provided on the opposite wing 12C of the recess and it is substantially located opposite and in the middle of the longitudinal face 11C of the bar, as shown in particular in Figure 2. These contacts 14A, 14B, 14C are part of an electrical circuit defining the means 14, and with which is associated a member 14D, such as a motor, intended to control a subsequent operation, symbolized by the arrow F in FIGS. 2 and 4.

On remarque sur les figures 2 et 3, que dans la position neutre occupée par la barrette 11 et correspondant à l'un de ses deux états stables, la liaison électrique entre les contacts n'est pas établie, puisque la barrette présente une configuration droite, sa face longitudinale correspondante 11C étant alors distante de l'aile 12C dudit évidement, sur laquelle est fixé le contact électrique 14C.Note in Figures 2 and 3, that in the neutral position occupied by the strip 11 and corresponding to one of its two stable states, the electrical connection between the contacts is not established, since the strip has a straight configuration , its corresponding longitudinal face 11C then being distant from the wing 12C of said recess, on which the electrical contact 14C is fixed.

En revanche, sur les figures 4 et 5, on voit que dans la position active de la barrette, correspondant à l'autre de ses deux états stables, la liaison électrique entre les contacts est établie puisque la barrette présente une configuration arquée, sa face 11C venant s'appliquer contre le contact 14C.On the other hand, in FIGS. 4 and 5, it can be seen that in the active position of the strip, corresponding to the other of its two stable states, the electrical connection between the contacts is established since the strip has an arcuate configuration, its face 11C coming to apply against contact 14C.

Pour obtenir une telle barrette à partir d'un alliage métallique à mémoire de forme, on Procède par exemple de la façon suivante. On réalise tout d'abord la barrette 11 sous sa forme représentée notamment sur la figure 4. Celle-ci est acquise alors que la structure cristalline constituant la barrette est dans sa phase austénitique correspondant à son premier état stable. La barrette ainsi réalisée présente une forme arquée, de section rectangulaire. Puis, on refroidit la barrette jusqu'à une température telle que sa structure cristalline soit dans la phase martensitique, et on la déforme pour lui faire prendre sa configuration parallélépipédique représentée sur la figure 2. A ce moment, la barrette 11 est dans son second état stable correspondant à sa position neutre. Après le retour à la température ambiante, cette nouvelle forme de la barrette est acquise et ses caractéristiques mécaniques retrouvées.To obtain such a strip from a metal alloy with shape memory, the procedure is for example as follows. First of all, the bar 11 is produced in the form shown in particular in FIG. 4. This is acquired while the crystal structure constituting the bar is in its austenitic phase corresponding to its first stable state. The bar thus produced has an arcuate shape, of rectangular section. Then, the bar is cooled to a temperature such that its crystal structure is in the martensitic phase, and it is deformed to make it take its parallelepipedal configuration shown in FIG. 2. At this time, the bar 11 is in its second stable state corresponding to its neutral position. After returning to ambient temperature, this new shape of the bar is acquired and its mechanical characteristics found.

Le fonctionnement du dispositif de commande successive 1 est le suivant. Après la mise à feu de la composition fusante lente 4 du cordeau pyrotechnique 2 par l'intermédiaire des moyens de déclenchement 3, le front de combustion se propage progressivement à l'intérieur de la gaine 5 dudit cordeau à une vitesse de quelques millimètres par seconde, qui dépend de la nature chimique de la composition 4. Cette combustion dégage de la chaleur dont la température atteinte est suffisamment élevée pour faire fondre la gaine métallique 5 en étain ou en plomb, dont le point de fusion est relativement faible.The operation of the successive control device 1 is as follows. After the slow fusing composition 4 of the pyrotechnic cord 2 has been ignited by means of the triggering means 3, the combustion front progressively propagates inside the sheath 5 of said cord at a speed of a few millimeters per second , which depends on the chemical nature of the composition 4. This combustion gives off heat, the temperature reached of which is high enough to melt the metal sheath 5 of tin or lead, the melting point of which is relatively low.

Lorsque le front de combustion dudit cordeau pyrotechnique arrive au niveau de la première barrette 11 dont la face longitudinale 11D est au contact, sa température s'élève à son tour au-dessus de sa température de transition à cause de la chaleur dégagée et engendrée par la combustion du cordeau. Par conséquent, la barrette passe de son état martensitique, correspondant à son second état stable, vers son état austénitique, correspondant à son premier état stable, pour lequel la barrette présente une configuration arquée. Cette déformation produit un travail mécanique qui est utilisé dans cet exemple pour fermer le circuit électrique 14 en établissant la liaison électrique entre les contacts 14A, 14B, sur lesquels reposent les extrémités 11B1 et 11B2 de la face 11B de la barrette, et le contact 14C, contre lequel vient s'appliquer la zone médiane 11C1 de la face 11C de la barrette 11 alors arquée, en position active. A ce moment, le moteur 14D dudit circuit 14 peut déclencher l'opération ultérieure F. On pourrait par ailleurs utiliser la déformation de la barrette 11 pour libérer, par exemple, un dispositif mécanique mû par un ressort ou analogue.When the combustion front of said pyrotechnic cord arrives at the level of the first bar 11, the longitudinal face 11D of which is in contact, its temperature in turn rises above its transition temperature because of the heat released and generated by burning the cord. Consequently, the bar passes from its martensitic state, corresponding to its second stable state, to its austenitic state, corresponding to its first stable state, for which the bar has an arched configuration. This deformation produces mechanical work which is used in this example to close the electrical circuit 14 by establishing the electrical connection between the contacts 14A, 14B, on which the ends 11B1 and 11B2 of the face 11B of the bar rest, and the contact 14C. , against which is applied the middle zone 11C1 of the face 11C of the bar 11 then arched, in the active position. At this time, the motor 14D of said circuit 14 can trigger the subsequent operation F. One could also use the deformation of the bar 11 to release, for example, a mechanical device driven by a spring or the like.

Simultanément au déclenchement de cette opération électrique, mécanique ou autre, le front de combustion du cordeau pyrotechnique 2 poursuit sa progression pour provoquer successivement le changement d'état des barrettes aval 11, espacées les unes des autres le long du cordeau, et dont chacune peut commander, par l'intermédiaire des moyens de contact électriques 14, une opération spécifique.Simultaneously with the initiation of this electrical, mechanical or other operation, the combustion front of the pyrotechnic cord 2 continues to progress in order to successively cause the change of state of the downstream bars 11, spaced apart from one another along the cord, and each of which can control, via the electrical contact means 14, a specific operation.

Grâce au dispositif de l'invention, on réalise par conséquent une réaction en chaîne permettant, à partir d'un cordeau pyrotechnique déclenché par un ordre électrique unique, de commander successivement une pluralité d'opérations ultérieures. Bien évidemment, l'intervalle de temps entre l'instant d'allumage du cordeau pyrotechnique et la commande de l'opération subséquente engendrée par le changement d'état d'une des barrettes est fonction de la nature de la composition chimique fusante employée et de la longueur de cordeau à utiliser jusqu'à cette barrette.Thanks to the device of the invention, a chain reaction is therefore carried out making it possible, from a pyrotechnic cord triggered by a single electrical command, to successively control a plurality of subsequent operations. Obviously, the time interval between the instant of ignition of the pyrotechnic cord and the command of the subsequent operation generated by the change of state of one of the strips is a function of the nature of the fusing chemical composition employed and the length of cord to be used up to this bar.

Bien que sur les représentations ci-dessus, on ait dessiné les barrettes 11 disposées à côté ou sur le cordeau pyrotechnique 2, il va de soi que, en variante, lesdites barrettes 11 pourraient être creuses et traversées par, ledit cordeau.Although in the above representations, the bars 11 have been drawn which are arranged next to or on the pyrotechnic cord 2, it goes without saying that, as a variant, said bars 11 could be hollow and crossed by said cord.

Claims (10)

  1. Successive-actuation device, of the type including at least one pyrotechnic cord (2) and means (3) for triggering the operation of the said pyrotechnic cord (2), characterized in that it comprises at least one element (10) made from a shape-memory alloy having two stable states and disposed along the said pyrotechnic cord (2), the said element (10) being capable of actuating a subsequent operation when it passes from one of its two stable states, for which the element (10) occupies a neutral position, toward its other stable state for which it occupies an active position, under the action of the heat released by the said pyrotechnic cord (2) following the triggering of the latter.
  2. Device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the said element (10) made from a shape-memory alloy acts, when it passes toward its stable state corresponding to its active position, on electrical contact means (14) which allow the actuation of the subsequent operation.
  3. Device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the said element (10) made from a shape-memory alloy acts, when it passes toward its stable state corresponding to its active position, on mechanical means which allow the actuation of the subsequent operation.
  4. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a plurality of elements (10) made from shape-memory alloy are disposed, in a spaced-apart manner, along the said pyrotechnic cord (2), in order for each to actuate a subsequent operation, when they pass successively toward their active position under the action of heat released progressively by the said pyrotechnic cord (2).
  5. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that said element (10) is in the form of a strip (11) in contact with the said pyrotechnic cord (2).
  6. Device according to Claim 5, characterized in that the transverse cross section of the said strip (11) is polygonal.
  7. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that said pyrotechnic cord (2) is housed in a recess (12) of a part (13), in which recess the said element (10) made from shape-memory alloy is also arranged.
  8. Device according to Claim 7, characterized in that the said element (10) is disposed between the bottom (12A) of the said recess (12) and the said pyrotechnic cord (2).
  9. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that said means (3) for triggering the said pyrotechnic cord comprise an electrical power supply (9) connected to a chemical priming composition (6) in contact with a chemical heating composition (7) connected to the said pyrotechnic cord (2).
  10. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that said pyrotechnic cord (2) is of the delay type and is constituted by a slow-fusing chemical composition (4) contained in a metal sheath (5).
EP92403223A 1991-12-06 1992-11-30 Serial control apparatus using pyrotechnic fuse Expired - Lifetime EP0545799B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9115151 1991-12-06
FR9115151A FR2684756B1 (en) 1991-12-06 1991-12-06 SUCCESSIVE CONTROL DEVICE, BY PYROTECHNIC CORD.

Publications (2)

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EP0545799A1 EP0545799A1 (en) 1993-06-09
EP0545799B1 true EP0545799B1 (en) 1995-11-02

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EP92403223A Expired - Lifetime EP0545799B1 (en) 1991-12-06 1992-11-30 Serial control apparatus using pyrotechnic fuse

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US (1) US5285728A (en)
EP (1) EP0545799B1 (en)
DE (1) DE69205807T2 (en)
FR (1) FR2684756B1 (en)

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE69734846T2 (en) * 1996-02-27 2006-08-31 Hitachi Metals, Ltd. Crossover for dual-band mobile terminals
US6382232B1 (en) 2001-03-09 2002-05-07 Dynetek Industries Ltd. Remote triggering system and retrofit kit for thermal-pressure relief devices
US20070173971A1 (en) * 2006-01-26 2007-07-26 Prairiestone Pharmacy, Llc System and method of providing medication compliance packaging
US8104793B2 (en) * 2006-02-03 2012-01-31 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Pyrotechnic triggering of thermally activated shape memory materials for selectively changing a structural and/or mechanical property of a vehicle member
CN101726223B (en) * 2009-10-12 2013-11-20 中国矿业大学 Device and method for directional fracture of rocks

Family Cites Families (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3483360A (en) * 1967-07-11 1969-12-09 Chace Co W M Thermostatic switching device and over-heat control system incorporating same
US4011816A (en) * 1971-10-06 1977-03-15 The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy Continuous line confined detonating fuse to provide a series of work pulses (U)
SE430823B (en) * 1979-05-15 1983-12-12 Bofors Ab PROTECTOR TENDROR FOR PROJECTILES
US4551974A (en) * 1984-04-27 1985-11-12 Raychem Corporation Shape memory effect actuator and methods of assembling and operating therefor
DE3637102A1 (en) * 1986-10-31 1988-05-19 Krupp Gmbh Device with pre-deformed bending element and its use
US5010821A (en) * 1986-12-22 1991-04-30 Lockheed Missiles & Space Company, Inc. Dual purpose energy transfer cord
FR2616900B1 (en) * 1987-06-16 1991-12-20 Aerospatiale PYROTECHNICAL NETWORK
US5070788A (en) * 1990-07-10 1991-12-10 J. V. Carisella Methods and apparatus for disarming and arming explosive detonators

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FR2684756A1 (en) 1993-06-11
DE69205807T2 (en) 1996-03-28
DE69205807D1 (en) 1995-12-07
FR2684756B1 (en) 1994-03-18
US5285728A (en) 1994-02-15
EP0545799A1 (en) 1993-06-09

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