EP0991910B1 - Delay action fuse assembly for pyrotechnical device - Google Patents

Delay action fuse assembly for pyrotechnical device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0991910B1
EP0991910B1 EP97931871A EP97931871A EP0991910B1 EP 0991910 B1 EP0991910 B1 EP 0991910B1 EP 97931871 A EP97931871 A EP 97931871A EP 97931871 A EP97931871 A EP 97931871A EP 0991910 B1 EP0991910 B1 EP 0991910B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
lever
storage means
duration
charge
delay
Prior art date
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Expired - Lifetime
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EP97931871A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0991910A1 (en
Inventor
Frédéric TEILHOL
Arnaud Viard
Daniel Casenave
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Ruggieri SA
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Ruggieri SA
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Publication date
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Publication of EP0991910A1 publication Critical patent/EP0991910A1/en
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    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42C—AMMUNITION FUZES; ARMING OR SAFETY MEANS THEREFOR
    • F42C11/00—Electric fuzes
    • F42C11/001—Electric circuits for fuzes characterised by the ammunition class or type
    • F42C11/003—Electric circuits for fuzes characterised by the ammunition class or type for hand grenades
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42C—AMMUNITION FUZES; ARMING OR SAFETY MEANS THEREFOR
    • F42C15/00—Arming-means in fuzes; Safety means for preventing premature detonation of fuzes or charges
    • F42C15/40—Arming-means in fuzes; Safety means for preventing premature detonation of fuzes or charges wherein the safety or arming action is effected electrically

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an igniter plug delay for pyrotechnic device, in particular a manual or mechanical launch grenade, of the type comprising a body in which a main charge is contained and a release lever, cooperating with a delay device capable of ensuring the initiation of the charge with a predetermined delay after the movement of the lever, the plug further comprising a locking blocking movement of the lever.
  • Pyrotechnic devices fitted with such a plug igniter are very safe, especially when of their storage.
  • the document FR A 2 510 250 which describes the preamble of claim 1, shows an igniter plug of this type. type, comprising timing means capable of ensuring a delayed initiation of charge and electronic means of triggering of the delay means.
  • Document FR A 2 343 992 shows an igniter plug having delay means whose departure is triggered by a rotation of the grenade around a point outside of this body.
  • Document FR A 2 483 068 shows an electronic rocket for hand grenade, with triggered timed detonator control circuit by erasing a screen interposed between the detonator and a relay boot.
  • the object of the present invention is to eliminate the risk of such accidental triggering, and improve thus the safety of pyrotechnic devices equipped with a such plug, in their first phase of use.
  • the invention relates to a stopper delay igniter for pyrotechnic device, in particular manual or mechanical launch grenade, of the aforementioned type, characterized in that the delay device includes delay means capable of ensuring initiation delayed charge and electronic means of triggering of the timing means, which trigger means include comparison means the length of time between unlocking the locking member and the movement of the lever, at a reference duration, to trigger said means of delay only if said elapsed time is greater than said reference duration.
  • the delay igniter plug for a machine pyrotechnic is intended for a hand grenade. he has a plastic body 4 charged with fiberglass but which could be alternately made of light alloy or any other equivalent material.
  • a pyrotechnic module primary 6 comprising an electronic device delay 8
  • a secondary pyrotechnic module 10 The primary pyrotechnic module 6 is mounted movable at sliding in a transverse bore 12 of the body.
  • the secondary pyrotechnic module 10 is fixed at one end of bore 12 in the extension of the module primary pyrotechnics 6.
  • the body 4 is provided with an electric generator removable 14 connected by breakable electrical conductors to the delay device 8.
  • This generator is formed for example by a dynamo. It is placed between two parallel walls of the body defining an open housing. It is held there by a frangible link, not shown.
  • the body 4 is further provided with a mechanism for control comprising a lever 16 articulated relative to the body.
  • This lever is associated with a transverse pin 18 for locking equipped with a gripping ring 20. This pin locks the lever.
  • the lever 16 covers the upper part of the body 4 on which opens the open end of the bore 12. It is articulated at a first end on a metal jumper 22, engaged transversely in the body, and which holds the module on both sides primary pyrotechnics 6.
  • the control mechanism also includes a finger 24, articulated around an axis transverse 26. This finger is movable in the plane of the figure 1 from a position applied against the generator electric 14 to a position where it is in contact with the upper part of the pyrotechnic module primary 6.
  • This finger is loaded by a coiled spring 28 around the axis 26. This spring is initially maintained in the bandaged state. One end of the spring 28 is supported on the body 4 while its other end is supported on one side of the electric generator 14 as well as on the finger 24.
  • the spring 28 constitutes both means of stress on finger 24 and ejection of generator 14.
  • the pin 18 has two branches 18A, 18B, extending substantially parallel and connected to each other the other by a connecting section on which is articulated the gripping ring 20.
  • the first branch 18A is provided with a groove locally reducing its section.
  • This branch 18A is received in a light 30 formed in the lever 16.
  • This light has an arcuate shape, and its width is generally equal to the section of the first branch 18A in its narrowed area.
  • An extremity 30A of light is widened and has dimensions allowing the passage of branch 18A.
  • the other extremity light 30 is aligned with a peripheral groove 31 formed externally at the upper part of the primary pyrotechnic module 6, so that the branch 18A of the pin received in the light 30 is engaged tangentially in this groove, thus blocking the movements of the primary pyrotechnic module.
  • the second branch 18B of the pin 18 is engaged in a transverse hole 32 of the body 4.
  • This second branch constitutes an actuator of the electric generator 14 and has along its length a rack section. The latter is suitable for cooperate with a pinion 34 disposed at the end of a shaft 36 of the electric generator.
  • the primary pyrotechnic module 6 includes a metal case 40, of light alloy, at the base of which is set a cup 42 whose length and diameter correspond to those of a coaxial chamber 44 provided in the secondary pyrotechnic module 10.
  • the case metallic 40 basically contains the device electronic delay 8. It is closed at the top by a conductive pad 45 forming a contact electric.
  • the delay device essentially comprises first and second storage means 46, 48, one microcontroller 50 and an electronic initiation device 52 arranged opposite a pyrotechnic composition initiation 54 which is contained in the part upper of the bucket 42.
  • a microdetonator 56 constituting the primary explosive of the pyrotechnic chain, is arranged in the lower part of the bucket.
  • the base of the bucket 42 is integral with a pellet metallic 58 coming from material.
  • the upper end of the case 40 is mounted at sliding directly in bore 12, while the lower end of it is received in a case 60, protecting the secondary pyrotechnic module.
  • a axial spacing is provided between the case 40 and the load main, to allow the sliding of the case 40 inside the case 60, after release of the jumper 22 and the first branch 18A of the pin.
  • the secondary pyrotechnic module 10 contains a detonation relay 62 consisting of an aluminum cup 64 containing a secondary explosive 66 and a capsule closure 68 which, in combination with the patch 58 arranged at the base of the bucket of the primary module 6, forms a screen between the microdetonator 56 and the explosive secondary 66 which constitutes the main priming charge.
  • a detonation relay 62 consisting of an aluminum cup 64 containing a secondary explosive 66 and a capsule closure 68 which, in combination with the patch 58 arranged at the base of the bucket of the primary module 6, forms a screen between the microdetonator 56 and the explosive secondary 66 which constitutes the main priming charge.
  • the generator electric 14 is connected by breakable wires to the first storage means 46, formed for example by a capacitor of suitable capacity.
  • a rectifier 80 is interposed between the electric generator 14 and the means storage 46. It allows the proper shaping of the voltage and in particular a limitation thereof for the purpose of charging the storage means 46. These the latter are linked by means of voltage threshold detection 82 at the microcontroller 50.
  • This microcontroller which notably includes means clock is suitable for controlling switching means 84 arranged between the first storage means 46 and the second storage means 48. They are formed for example by an electronic switch. These means are suitable for selectively connecting the second storage means 48, also formed by a capacitor, to the first storage means 46 or to electric initiation device 52.
  • a resistance of load control 86 is provided between the first 46 and the second 48 storage means, in order to impose the charging time of the second storage means 48.
  • a switch 88 is mounted in parallel to the terminals of the electrical initiation device 52.
  • the switch 88 is formed by the jumper metallic 22, shorting the supply wires initiation device 52.
  • the microcontroller 50 is connected on the one hand to the conductive finger 24 and on the other hand to the pad 45, the latter forming together a switch 90 whose closure reflects the displacement of the lever 16.
  • microcontroller 50 The operation of the microcontroller 50 is piloted by a program managing and controlling the stages of the grenade.
  • the organization chart of this program is described with reference to figure 7.
  • the operator grasps its body in one hand, now lever 16 as he grabs the ring from grip 20 in the other hand. Using this, it rotates pin 18 around its second branch 18B, so that the first branch 18A comes place in the enlarged end zone 30A of the light, as shown in Figure 2. In this position, it is possible by pulling on the ring 20 to extract the pin. This step of removing the pin corresponds to step 100 of the organization chart of the figure 7.
  • the rack carried by the second branch 18B drives the pinion 34, causing thus the rotation of the shaft 36 of the electric generator 14. The latter then delivers through the rectifier 80, thus loading the first storage means 46 (step 102).
  • step 104 When a predetermined charging voltage threshold storage means 46 is detected, in step 104, by the threshold detection means 82, these connect the microcontroller 50 to the storage means 46 (step 106).
  • the microcontroller is thus supplied.
  • the duration obtaining the voltage threshold is substantially equal to 200 milliseconds. This duration is linked to the construction rectifier 80 and the nature of the electric generator 14 and storage means 46.
  • the microcontroller 50 triggers, in step 108, duration estimation means, formed by a noted counter H1, incremented at a rate linked to the microcontroller's clock.
  • the lever 16 After extraction of the pin, the lever 16 is held by the operator's hand. So the counter H1 is representative of the duration of maintenance of the lever 16 from the start of the microcontroller. so that the microcontroller does not detect the closing of the switch 90, in step 110, it increments, to step 112, the counter H1. In step 114, it checks whether the duration measured by the H1 counter is greater than 30 minutes. If this duration is greater, the microcontroller stops, at step 116, the implementation of the process initiation of the pyrotechnic device. If the duration is less than 30 minutes, the microcontroller returns to step 110.
  • the lever 16 When the operator launches the grenade, the lever 16 is released. So, as shown in Figure 3, the lever pivots around its end linked to the jumper 22, releasing the spring 28. The latter, initially compressed, relaxes, ejecting the generator electric 14 in the direction of arrow F1. Simultaneously, the contact finger 24 is brought into contact with the pellet 45 by rotation about the axis 26 along the direction of arrow F2. This contact causes the closure of the switch 90 which is detected in step 110.
  • the microcontroller After closing the switch 90 translating the movement of the lever 16, the microcontroller brings work of comparison means which verify, at the stage 118, if the duration recorded by the H1 counter is greater at 100 milliseconds. This amounts to checking whether the duration recorded by the counter H1, at which are added the 200 milliseconds corresponding to the duration load of the first storage means is greater at 300 milliseconds. So the microcontroller compares the time elapsed between unlocking the grenade by removal of the pin and movement of the lever to a reference duration, here equal to 300 milliseconds. Yes this elapsed time is less than 300 milliseconds, the microcontroller stops, in step 120, the setting work of the pomegranate initiation process. If the elapsed time is greater than 300 milliseconds, the microcontroller triggers timing means in view of the delayed feeding of the initiation device 52. In particular a new H2 counter is triggered in step 122.
  • the continued movement of the lever 16 leads to the progressive extraction of the jumper 22 which thus opens switch 88, making the short circuit stop initiator 52 terminals.
  • the primary pyrotechnic module 6 is free to move. It then fits, as shown on FIG. 5, in the secondary pyrotechnic module 10 under the effect of finger 24 loaded by the spring 28. The well 42 thus enters chamber 44, leading to the alignment of the additional pyrotechnic modules.
  • step 124 the microcontroller checks whether the duration corresponding to the value of the counter H2 is greater than a first predetermined period of time T 1 .
  • the period T 1 is for example equal to half of the delay T desired for the explosion of the grenade. If this is not the case, the counter H2 is incremented in step 126. The incrementation continues until the duration represented by the counter H2 is greater than the period T 1 .
  • the switch 84 is inverted, in step 128, under the control of the microcontroller, so that the storage means 46 transfer part of their electrical energy to the storage means 48. The latter are thus progressively charged, at a rate imposed by the load resistor 86. The value of the latter is calculated so that the storage means 48 are charged with a charge corresponding to the energy necessary for actuation of the initiation device 52 to the end of a time period T 2 corresponding to the remaining half of the delay T.
  • step 130 the microcontroller checks whether the duration measured by the H2 counter is greater than the delay T. If this is not the case, it increments, at step 132, the H2 counter. The incrementation continues until the duration measured by the H2 counter, be greater at period T.
  • the microcontroller then commands, at step 134, reversing the switch 84, so that the electrical initiation device 52 is put under voltage at the output of the storage means 48. Sound feeding has the effect of initiating, in step 136, the charge 54, which by thermal effect, initiates the microdetonator 56. The latter, by radial effect, causes the detonation of relay 62. Thus, the main charge of the grenade is initiated, so that the grenade explodes. When the grenade exploded, the different components of the igniter plug are found destroyed.
  • the delay means of the delay device are only triggered if the duration elapsed between unlocking the pin and lever movement is greater than a reference duration which is, in the example described, equal to 300 milliseconds. So if the elapsed time is less than 300 milliseconds, that is, the lever was not maintained sufficiently, the initiation of the grenade is impossible. Under these conditions, such an igniter plug prohibits the explosion of the grenade if the pin of security was removed without the lever being held. This prevents accidental release of the plug igniter by simply removing the pin.
  • the presence of two storage means successive, arranged in cascade, and of which the second is only charged after a specified time also allows avoid any untimely triggering of the device initiation 52.
  • the pomegranate igniter plug has a microcontroller. This can be replaced by a specially designed ASIC designed for the implementation of successive stages of the grenade.
  • the threshold detection means of voltage 82 may not take the form of a device independent and be trained by a simple connection first storage means 46 at the delivery terminal to zero of the microcontroller.
  • the switching means 84 can take the form of a switch, as shown in Figure 6. However, they can also be consisting of two controlled electronic switches by the microcontroller 50 and arranged in series between the load resistance 86 and switch 88.
  • the output of the second storage means 48 is then connected between the two switches mounted in series.
  • the microcontroller controls these two switches so that they are in different states and in particular that the second storage means 48 are first connected to the first storage means 46 then to the electric initiation device 52.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Air Bags (AREA)
  • Electric Clocks (AREA)
  • Fuses (AREA)
  • Automotive Seat Belt Assembly (AREA)

Abstract

The invention concerns a delay action fuse assembly for a pyrotechnical device, in particular a hand or mechanical grenade, comprising a body (4) wherein is contained a main charge (66) and a triggering lever (16) co-operating with a delay action device (8) ensuring the initiation of the charge (66) with a predetermined delay after the lever is actuated (16). The fuse assembly further comprises a locking member (18) blocking the lever (16) movement. The delay action device (8) comprises time delay means for ensuring initiation of the charge and electronic means for triggering the time delay means. Said electronic triggering means comprise means for comparing the time elapsed between the release of the locking member (18) and the lever (16) movement, to a reference time interval, to trigger the delay action device only if said time lapse is greater than said reference time interval.

Description

La présente invention concerne un bouchon allumeur à retard pour engin pyrotechnique, notamment une grenade à lancement manuel ou mécanique, du type comportant un corps dans lequel est contenue une charge principale et un levier de déclenchement, coopérant avec un dispositif à retard apte à assurer l'initiation de la charge avec un retard prédéterminé après le mouvement du levier, le bouchon comportant en outre un organe de verrouillage bloquant le mouvement du levier.The present invention relates to an igniter plug delay for pyrotechnic device, in particular a manual or mechanical launch grenade, of the type comprising a body in which a main charge is contained and a release lever, cooperating with a delay device capable of ensuring the initiation of the charge with a predetermined delay after the movement of the lever, the plug further comprising a locking blocking movement of the lever.

Les engins pyrotechniques muni d'un tel bouchon allumeur présentent une grande sécurité, notamment lors de leur stockage.Pyrotechnic devices fitted with such a plug igniter are very safe, especially when of their storage.

Lors de leur utilisation, ces engins présentent des risques accidentels de déclenchement, une fois que l'organe de verrouillage, formé généralement par une goupille, est déverrouillé. En effet, si l'organe de déverrouillage est déverrouillé accidentellement et que le levier est libre de se déplacer, la charge principale peut être amorcée, conduisant alors à la mise à feu de l'engin.When in use, these devices present accidental tripping risks, a once the locking member, generally formed by a pin, is unlocked. Indeed, if the organ of unlock is accidentally unlocked and that the lever is free to move, the main load can be initiated, leading to the ignition of the craft.

Le document FR A 2 510 250 qui décrit le préambule de la revendication 1, montre un bouchon allumeur de ce type, comportant des moyens de temporisation aptes à assurer une initiation retardée de la charge et des moyens électroniques de déclenchement des moyens de temporisation.The document FR A 2 510 250 which describes the preamble of claim 1, shows an igniter plug of this type. type, comprising timing means capable of ensuring a delayed initiation of charge and electronic means of triggering of the delay means.

Le document FR A 2 343 992 montre un bouchon allumeur ayant des moyens de temporisation dont le départ est déclenché par une rotation de la grenade autour d'un point situé à l'extérieur de ce corps.Document FR A 2 343 992 shows an igniter plug having delay means whose departure is triggered by a rotation of the grenade around a point outside of this body.

Le document FR A 2 483 068 montre une fusée électronique pour grenade à main, à circuit de commande de détonateur temporisé déclenché par effacement d'un écran interposé entre le détonateur et un relais d'amorçage.Document FR A 2 483 068 shows an electronic rocket for hand grenade, with triggered timed detonator control circuit by erasing a screen interposed between the detonator and a relay boot.

Ces différents dispositifs présentent là encore des risques de déclenchement accidentel.These various devices again present risks of accidental release.

La présente invention a pour but de supprimer le risque d'un tel déclenchement accidentel, et d'améliorer ainsi la sécurité des engins pyrotechniques équipés d'un tel bouchon, dans leur première phase d'utilisation.The object of the present invention is to eliminate the risk of such accidental triggering, and improve thus the safety of pyrotechnic devices equipped with a such plug, in their first phase of use.

A cet effet, l'invention a pour objet un bouchon allumeur à retard pour engin pyrotechnique, notamment grenade à lancement manuel ou mécanique, du type précité, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif à retard comporte des moyens de temporisation aptes à assurer une initiation retardée de la charge et des moyens électroniques de déclenchement des moyens de temporisation, lesquels moyens de déclenchement comportent des moyens de comparaison de la durée écoulée entre le déverrouillage de l'organe de verrouillage et le mouvement du levier, à une durée de référence, pour déclencher lesdits moyens de temporisation uniquement si ladite durée écoulée est supérieure à ladite durée de référence.To this end, the invention relates to a stopper delay igniter for pyrotechnic device, in particular manual or mechanical launch grenade, of the aforementioned type, characterized in that the delay device includes delay means capable of ensuring initiation delayed charge and electronic means of triggering of the timing means, which trigger means include comparison means the length of time between unlocking the locking member and the movement of the lever, at a reference duration, to trigger said means of delay only if said elapsed time is greater than said reference duration.

Suivant des modes particuliers de réalisation, le bouchon allumeur peut présenter l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes :

  • les moyens de comparaison comportent des moyens d'estimation de ladite durée écoulée ;
  • il comporte un interrupteur électrique normalement ouvert, dont la fermeture est commandée par le mouvement du levier, et la fermeture dudit interrupteur commande l'arrêt desdits moyens d'estimation ;
  • il comporte un générateur électrique actionné par ledit organe de verrouillage lors de son déverrouillage, et ledit générateur électrique alimente ledit dispositif à retard ;
  • il comporte des moyens d'éjection dudit générateur électrique, commandés par le mouvement du levier ;
  • lesdits moyens d'éjection comportent un ressort maintenu initialement à l'état bandé par ledit levier et dont les extrémités prennent appui respectivement sur ledit générateur électrique et sur le corps du bouchon allumeur ;
  • lesdits moyens électroniques de déclenchement comportent des premiers moyens de stockage de l'énergie électrique reliés audit générateur électrique et auxquels sont reliés lesdits moyens de comparaison pour leur alimentation en énergie électrique ;
  • lesdits moyens d'estimation de ladite durée écoulée comportent une horloge alimentée par lesdits premiers moyens de stockage après leur charge, et l'estimation de ladite durée écoulée est donnée par la somme de la durée estimée de charge desdits premiers moyens de stockage et de la durée mesurée par l'horloge entre la fin de la charge desdits premiers moyens de stockage et le mouvement du levier ;
  • le dispositif à retard comporte des seconds moyens de stockage reliés sélectivement par l'intermédiaire de moyens de commutation pilotés par lesdits moyens de temporisation soit aux premiers moyens de stockage, soit à un dispositif électronique d'initiation de la charge ;
  • une résistance de charge est interposée entre les premiers et seconds moyens de stockage pour déterminer le temps de charge des seconds moyens de stockage ; et
  • lesdits moyens de temporisation sont adaptés pour commander d'abord la connexion des seconds moyens de stockage aux premiers moyens de stockage en vue de leur charge en énergie électrique après une première période de temps et pour commander ensuite la connexion des seconds moyens de stockage au dispositif d'initiation de la charge après une seconde période de temps .
According to particular embodiments, the igniter plug may have one or more of the following characteristics:
  • the comparison means include means for estimating said elapsed time;
  • it comprises a normally open electrical switch, the closing of which is controlled by the movement of the lever, and the closing of said switch controls the stopping of said estimation means;
  • it comprises an electric generator actuated by said locking member when it is unlocked, and said electric generator supplies said delay device;
  • it comprises means for ejecting said electric generator, controlled by the movement of the lever;
  • said ejection means comprise a spring initially maintained in the state bandaged by said lever and the ends of which bear respectively on said electric generator and on the body of the igniter plug;
  • said electronic triggering means comprise first means for storing electrical energy connected to said electrical generator and to which said comparison means are connected for their supply of electrical energy;
  • said means for estimating said elapsed time includes a clock powered by said first storage means after their charging, and the estimation of said elapsed time is given by the sum of the estimated duration of charge of said first storage means and the duration measured by the clock between the end of the charging of said first storage means and the movement of the lever;
  • the delay device comprises second storage means selectively connected by means of switching means controlled by said timing means either to the first storage means or to an electronic device for initiating the load;
  • a load resistor is interposed between the first and second storage means to determine the charging time of the second storage means; and
  • said timing means are adapted to first control the connection of the second storage means to the first storage means with a view to charging them with electrical energy after a first period of time and to then control the connection of the second storage means to the device charge initiation after a second period of time.

L'invention sera mieux comprise à la lecture de la description qui va suivre, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple et faite en se référant aux dessins sur lesquels :

  • les figures 1 à 5 sont des vues en coupe et élévation longitudinale d'un bouchon allumeur selon l'invention à des stades successifs de fonctionnement ;
  • la figure 6 est un schéma du dispositif électronique du bouchon allumeur des figures 1 à 5 ; et
  • la figure 7 est un organigramme de fonctionnement du bouchon allumeur selon l'invention.
The invention will be better understood on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of example and made with reference to the drawings in which:
  • Figures 1 to 5 are sectional views and longitudinal elevation of an igniter plug according to the invention in successive stages of operation;
  • Figure 6 is a diagram of the electronic device of the igniter plug of Figures 1 to 5; and
  • FIG. 7 is a flowchart of operation of the igniter plug according to the invention.

Dans sa forme de réalisation représentée aux figures 1 à 5, le bouchon allumeur à retard pour engin pyrotechnique, est destiné à une grenade à main. Il comporte un corps 4 en matière plastique chargée de fibres de verre, mais qui pourrait être alternativement en alliage léger ou tout autre matériau équivalent.In its embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 5, the delay igniter plug for a machine pyrotechnic, is intended for a hand grenade. he has a plastic body 4 charged with fiberglass but which could be alternately made of light alloy or any other equivalent material.

Sur ce corps 4 sont adaptés un module pyrotechnique primaire 6 comportant un dispositif électronique à retard 8, et un module pyrotechnique secondaire 10. Le module pyrotechnique primaire 6 est monté déplaçable à coulissement dans un alésage transversal 12 du corps. Le module pyrotechnique secondaire 10 est fixé à une extrémité de l'alésage 12 dans le prolongement du module pyrotechnique primaire 6.On this body 4 are adapted a pyrotechnic module primary 6 comprising an electronic device delay 8, and a secondary pyrotechnic module 10. The primary pyrotechnic module 6 is mounted movable at sliding in a transverse bore 12 of the body. The secondary pyrotechnic module 10 is fixed at one end of bore 12 in the extension of the module primary pyrotechnics 6.

Le corps 4 est muni d'un générateur électrique amovible 14 relié par des conducteurs électriques sécables au dispositif à retard 8. Ce générateur est formé par exemple par une dynamo. Il est disposé entre deux parois parallèles du corps délimitant un logement ouvert. Il y est maintenu par un lien frangible non représenté.The body 4 is provided with an electric generator removable 14 connected by breakable electrical conductors to the delay device 8. This generator is formed for example by a dynamo. It is placed between two parallel walls of the body defining an open housing. It is held there by a frangible link, not shown.

Le corps 4 est muni en outre d'un mécanisme de commande comportant un levier 16 articulé par rapport au corps. Ce levier est associé à une goupille transversale 18 de verrouillage équipée d'un anneau de préhension 20. Cette goupille assure le blocage du levier.The body 4 is further provided with a mechanism for control comprising a lever 16 articulated relative to the body. This lever is associated with a transverse pin 18 for locking equipped with a gripping ring 20. This pin locks the lever.

Le levier 16 coiffe la partie supérieure du corps 4 sur laquelle débouche l'extrémité ouverte de l'alésage 12. Il est articulé à une première extrémité sur un cavalier métallique 22, engagé transversalement dans le corps, et qui maintient de part et d'autre le module pyrotechnique primaire 6. Le mécanisme de commande comporte également un doigt 24, articulé autour d'un axe transversal 26. Ce doigt est mobile dans le plan de la figure 1 depuis une position appliquée contre le générateur électrique 14 jusqu'à une position où il est en contact avec la partie supérieure du module pyrotechnique primaire 6. Ce doigt est chargé par un ressort 28 enroulé autour de l'axe 26. Ce ressort est maintenu initialement à l'état bandé. Une extrémité du ressort 28 prend appui sur le corps 4 alors que son autre extrémité prend appui sur une face du générateur électrique 14 ainsi que sur le doigt 24. Le ressort 28 constitue à la fois des moyens de sollicitation du doigt 24 et d'éjection du générateur 14.The lever 16 covers the upper part of the body 4 on which opens the open end of the bore 12. It is articulated at a first end on a metal jumper 22, engaged transversely in the body, and which holds the module on both sides primary pyrotechnics 6. The control mechanism also includes a finger 24, articulated around an axis transverse 26. This finger is movable in the plane of the figure 1 from a position applied against the generator electric 14 to a position where it is in contact with the upper part of the pyrotechnic module primary 6. This finger is loaded by a coiled spring 28 around the axis 26. This spring is initially maintained in the bandaged state. One end of the spring 28 is supported on the body 4 while its other end is supported on one side of the electric generator 14 as well as on the finger 24. The spring 28 constitutes both means of stress on finger 24 and ejection of generator 14.

La goupille 18 comporte deux branches 18A, 18B, s'étendant sensiblement parallèlement et reliées l'une à l'autre par un tronçon de liaison sur lequel est articulé l'anneau de préhension 20. La première branche 18A est munie d'une gorge réduisant localement sa section. Cette branche 18A est reçue dans une lumière 30 ménagée dans le levier 16. Cette lumière présente une forme arquée, et sa largeur est généralement égale à la section de la première branche 18A dans sa zone rétrécie. Une extrémité 30A de la lumière est élargie et présente des dimensions permettant le passage de la branche 18A. L'autre extrémité de la lumière 30 est alignée avec une gorge périphérique 31 ménagée extérieurement à la partie supérieure du module pyrotechnique primaire 6, de sorte que la branche 18A de la goupille reçue dans la lumière 30 est engagée tangentiellement dans cette gorge, bloquant ainsi les mouvements du module pyrotechnique primaire.The pin 18 has two branches 18A, 18B, extending substantially parallel and connected to each other the other by a connecting section on which is articulated the gripping ring 20. The first branch 18A is provided with a groove locally reducing its section. This branch 18A is received in a light 30 formed in the lever 16. This light has an arcuate shape, and its width is generally equal to the section of the first branch 18A in its narrowed area. An extremity 30A of light is widened and has dimensions allowing the passage of branch 18A. The other extremity light 30 is aligned with a peripheral groove 31 formed externally at the upper part of the primary pyrotechnic module 6, so that the branch 18A of the pin received in the light 30 is engaged tangentially in this groove, thus blocking the movements of the primary pyrotechnic module.

La seconde branche 18B de la goupille 18 est engagée dans un trou transversal 32 du corps 4. Cette seconde branche constitue un organe d'actionnement du générateur électrique 14 et comporte sur sa longueur un tronçon de crémaillère. Cette dernière est adaptée pour coopérer avec un pignon 34 disposé à l'extrémité d'un arbre 36 du générateur électrique.The second branch 18B of the pin 18 is engaged in a transverse hole 32 of the body 4. This second branch constitutes an actuator of the electric generator 14 and has along its length a rack section. The latter is suitable for cooperate with a pinion 34 disposed at the end of a shaft 36 of the electric generator.

On comprend que dans la position représentée sur la figure 1, la goupille 18 interdit le mouvement du levier 16, le déplacement du module pyrotechnique primaire 6 ainsi que l'actionnement du générateur électrique 14.We understand that in the position shown on Figure 1, the pin 18 prohibits the movement of the lever 16, movement of the primary pyrotechnic module 6 as well as the actuation of the electric generator 14.

Le module pyrotechnique primaire 6 comporte un étui métallique 40, en alliage léger, à la base duquel est serti un godet 42 dont la longueur et le diamètre correspondent à ceux d'une chambre coaxiale 44 ménagée dans le module pyrotechnique secondaire 10. L'étui métallique 40 contient essentiellement le dispositif électronique à retard 8. Il est obturé à sa partie supérieure par une pastille conductrice 45 formant un contact électrique. Le dispositif à retard comporte essentiellement des premier et second moyens de stockage 46, 48, un microcontrôleur 50 et un dispositif électronique d'initiation 52 disposé en regard d'une composition pyrotechnique d'initiation 54 qui est contenue dans la partie supérieure du godet 42. Un microdétonateur 56, constituant l'explosif primaire de la chaíne pyrotechnique, est disposé dans la partie inférieure du godet.The primary pyrotechnic module 6 includes a metal case 40, of light alloy, at the base of which is set a cup 42 whose length and diameter correspond to those of a coaxial chamber 44 provided in the secondary pyrotechnic module 10. The case metallic 40 basically contains the device electronic delay 8. It is closed at the top by a conductive pad 45 forming a contact electric. The delay device essentially comprises first and second storage means 46, 48, one microcontroller 50 and an electronic initiation device 52 arranged opposite a pyrotechnic composition initiation 54 which is contained in the part upper of the bucket 42. A microdetonator 56, constituting the primary explosive of the pyrotechnic chain, is arranged in the lower part of the bucket.

La base du godet 42 est solidaire d'une pastille métallique 58 venue de matière.The base of the bucket 42 is integral with a pellet metallic 58 coming from material.

L'extrémité supérieure de l'étui 40 est montée à coulissement directement dans l'alésage 12, alors que l'extrémité inférieure de celui-ci est reçue dans un étui 60, protégeant le module pyrotechnique secondaire. Un espacement axial est prévu entre l'étui 40 et la charge principale, afin de permettre le coulissement de l'étui 40 à l'intérieur de l'étui 60, après libération du cavalier 22 et de la première branche 18A de la goupille.The upper end of the case 40 is mounted at sliding directly in bore 12, while the lower end of it is received in a case 60, protecting the secondary pyrotechnic module. A axial spacing is provided between the case 40 and the load main, to allow the sliding of the case 40 inside the case 60, after release of the jumper 22 and the first branch 18A of the pin.

Le module pyrotechnique secondaire 10 contient un relais de détonation 62 constitué par un godet en aluminium 64 contenant un explosif secondaire 66 et une capsule de fermeture 68 qui, en combinaison avec la pastille 58 disposée à la base du godet du module primaire 6, forme un écran entre le microdétonateur 56 et l'explosif secondaire 66 qui constitue la charge principale d'amorçage.The secondary pyrotechnic module 10 contains a detonation relay 62 consisting of an aluminum cup 64 containing a secondary explosive 66 and a capsule closure 68 which, in combination with the patch 58 arranged at the base of the bucket of the primary module 6, forms a screen between the microdetonator 56 and the explosive secondary 66 which constitutes the main priming charge.

Sur la figure 1, on voit que la forme de la chambre axiale 44 concorde avec celle du godet 42 du module primaire 6 et que la capsule 68 comporte une ouverture axiale dans laquelle, en position de stockage, vient se loger la pastille 58 du module primaire 6.In Figure 1, we see that the shape of the chamber axial 44 agrees with that of bucket 42 of the module primary 6 and that the capsule 68 has an opening axial in which, in the storage position, comes place the pad 58 of the primary module 6.

Le dispositif électronique à retard va maintenant être décrit en regard de la figure 6.The electronic delay device will now be described with reference to figure 6.

Comme représenté sur cette figure, le générateur électrique 14 est relié par des fils sécables aux premiers moyens de stockage 46, formés par exemple par un condensateur de capacité adaptée. Un redresseur 80 est interposé entre le générateur électrique 14 et les moyens de stockage 46. Il permet la mise en forme appropriée de la tension et en particulier une limitation de celle-ci en vue de la charge des moyens de stockage 46. Ces derniers sont reliés par l'intermédiaire de moyens de détection de seuil de tension 82 au microcontrôleur 50. Ce microcontrôleur qui comporte notamment des moyens d'horloge est adapté pour commander des moyens de commutation 84 disposés entre les premiers moyens de stockage 46 et les seconds moyens de stockage 48. Ils sont formés par exemple par un commutateur électronique. Ces moyens de commutation sont adaptés pour relier sélectivement les seconds moyens de stockage 48, formés également par un condensateur, aux premiers moyens de stockage 46 ou au dispositif électrique d'initiation 52. Une résistance de contrôle de charge 86 est prévue entre les premiers 46 et les seconds 48 moyens de stockage, afin d'imposer le temps de charge des seconds moyens de stockage 48.As shown in this figure, the generator electric 14 is connected by breakable wires to the first storage means 46, formed for example by a capacitor of suitable capacity. A rectifier 80 is interposed between the electric generator 14 and the means storage 46. It allows the proper shaping of the voltage and in particular a limitation thereof for the purpose of charging the storage means 46. These the latter are linked by means of voltage threshold detection 82 at the microcontroller 50. This microcontroller which notably includes means clock is suitable for controlling switching means 84 arranged between the first storage means 46 and the second storage means 48. They are formed for example by an electronic switch. These means are suitable for selectively connecting the second storage means 48, also formed by a capacitor, to the first storage means 46 or to electric initiation device 52. A resistance of load control 86 is provided between the first 46 and the second 48 storage means, in order to impose the charging time of the second storage means 48.

Par ailleurs, un interrupteur 88 est monté en parallèle aux bornes du dispositif électrique d'initiation 52. L'interrupteur 88 est formé par le cavalier métallique 22, court-circuitant les fils d'alimentation du dispositif d'initiation 52.Furthermore, a switch 88 is mounted in parallel to the terminals of the electrical initiation device 52. The switch 88 is formed by the jumper metallic 22, shorting the supply wires initiation device 52.

D'autre part, le microcontrôleur 50 est relié d'une part au doigt conducteur 24 et d'autre part à la pastille 45, ces derniers formant ensemble un interrupteur 90 dont la fermeture traduit le déplacement du levier 16.On the other hand, the microcontroller 50 is connected on the one hand to the conductive finger 24 and on the other hand to the pad 45, the latter forming together a switch 90 whose closure reflects the displacement of the lever 16.

Le fonctionnement du microcontrôleur 50 est piloté par un programme gérant et contrôlant les étapes de fonctionnement de la grenade. L'organigramme de ce programme est décrit en regard de la figure 7.The operation of the microcontroller 50 is piloted by a program managing and controlling the stages of the grenade. The organization chart of this program is described with reference to figure 7.

Le fonctionnement du bouchon allumeur va maintenant être décrit en regard d'une part des figures 1 à 5 pour les aspects mécaniques, et d'autre part des figures 6 et 7, pour les aspects relatifs au fonctionnement du dispositif électronique piloté par le microcontrôleur 50.The operation of the igniter plug will now be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5 for mechanical aspects, and on the other hand figures 6 and 7, for aspects relating to the functioning of the electronic device controlled by the microcontroller 50.

Afin de procéder au lancement de la grenade, l'opérateur saisit le corps de celle-ci dans une main, en maintenant le levier 16, alors qu'il saisit l'anneau de préhension 20 dans l'autre main. A l'aide de celui-ci, il fait pivoter la goupille 18 autour de sa seconde branche 18B, de sorte que la première branche 18A vienne se placer dans la zone d'extrémité élargie 30A de la lumière, comme représenté sur la figure 2. Dans cette position, il est possible par traction sur l'anneau 20 d'extraire la goupille. Cette étape de retrait de la goupille correspond à l'étape 100 de l'organigramme de la figure 7. Lors de l'extraction, la crémaillère portée par la seconde branche 18B entraíne le pignon 34, provoquant ainsi la rotation de l'arbre 36 du générateur électrique 14. Celui-ci débite alors au travers du redresseur 80, chargeant ainsi les premiers moyens de stockage 46 (étape 102). Lorsqu'un seuil de tension de charge prédéterminé des moyens de stockage 46 est détecté, à l'étape 104, par les moyens de détection de seuil 82, ceux-ci connectent le microcontrôleur 50 aux moyens de stockage 46 (étape 106). Le microcontrôleur est ainsi alimenté. La durée d'obtention du seuil de tension est sensiblement égal à 200 millisecondes. Cette durée est liée à la construction du redresseur 80 et à la nature du générateur électrique 14 et des moyens de stockage 46. Dès sa mise sous tension, le microcontrôleur 50 déclenche, à l'étape 108, des moyens d'estimation de durée, formés par un compteur noté H1, incrémenté à une cadence liée à l'horloge du microcontrôleur.In order to launch the grenade, the operator grasps its body in one hand, now lever 16 as he grabs the ring from grip 20 in the other hand. Using this, it rotates pin 18 around its second branch 18B, so that the first branch 18A comes place in the enlarged end zone 30A of the light, as shown in Figure 2. In this position, it is possible by pulling on the ring 20 to extract the pin. This step of removing the pin corresponds to step 100 of the organization chart of the figure 7. During the extraction, the rack carried by the second branch 18B drives the pinion 34, causing thus the rotation of the shaft 36 of the electric generator 14. The latter then delivers through the rectifier 80, thus loading the first storage means 46 (step 102). When a predetermined charging voltage threshold storage means 46 is detected, in step 104, by the threshold detection means 82, these connect the microcontroller 50 to the storage means 46 (step 106). The microcontroller is thus supplied. The duration obtaining the voltage threshold is substantially equal to 200 milliseconds. This duration is linked to the construction rectifier 80 and the nature of the electric generator 14 and storage means 46. As soon as it is powered up, the microcontroller 50 triggers, in step 108, duration estimation means, formed by a noted counter H1, incremented at a rate linked to the microcontroller's clock.

Après extraction de la goupille, le levier 16 est maintenu par la main de l'opérateur. Ainsi, le compteur H1 est représentatif de la durée de maintien du levier 16 à partir de la mise en marche du microcontrôleur. Tant que le microcontrôleur ne détecte pas la fermeture de l'interrupteur 90, à l'étape 110, il incrémente, à l'étape 112, le compteur H1. A l'étape 114, il vérifie si la durée mesurée par le compteur H1 est supérieure à 30 minutes. Si cette durée est supérieure, le microcontrôleur cesse, à l'étape 116, la mise en oeuvre du processus d'initiation de l'engin pyrotechnique. Si la durée est inférieure à 30 minutes, le microcontrôleur revient à l'étape 110.After extraction of the pin, the lever 16 is held by the operator's hand. So the counter H1 is representative of the duration of maintenance of the lever 16 from the start of the microcontroller. so that the microcontroller does not detect the closing of the switch 90, in step 110, it increments, to step 112, the counter H1. In step 114, it checks whether the duration measured by the H1 counter is greater than 30 minutes. If this duration is greater, the microcontroller stops, at step 116, the implementation of the process initiation of the pyrotechnic device. If the duration is less than 30 minutes, the microcontroller returns to step 110.

Lorsque l'opérateur lance la grenade, le levier 16 se trouve libéré. Ainsi, comme cela est représenté sur la figure 3, le levier pivote autour de son extrémité liée au cavalier 22, libérant le ressort 28. Ce dernier, initialement comprimé, se détend, éjectant le générateur électrique 14 suivant le sens de la flèche F1. Simultanément, le doigt de contact 24 est amené en contact avec la pastille 45 par rotation autour de l'axe 26 suivant le sens de la flèche F2. Ce contact provoque la fermeture de l'interrupteur 90 qui est détectée à l'étape 110.When the operator launches the grenade, the lever 16 is released. So, as shown in Figure 3, the lever pivots around its end linked to the jumper 22, releasing the spring 28. The latter, initially compressed, relaxes, ejecting the generator electric 14 in the direction of arrow F1. Simultaneously, the contact finger 24 is brought into contact with the pellet 45 by rotation about the axis 26 along the direction of arrow F2. This contact causes the closure of the switch 90 which is detected in step 110.

Après fermeture de l'interrupteur 90 traduisant le mouvement du levier 16, le microcontrôleur met en oeuvre des moyens de comparaison qui vérifient, à l'étape 118, si la durée enregistrée par le compteur H1 est supérieure à 100 millisecondes. Ceci revient à vérifier si la durée enregistrée par le compteur H1, à laquelle sont ajoutées les 200 millisecondes correspondant à la durée de charge des premiers moyens de stockage, est supérieure à 300 millisecondes. Ainsi, le microcontrôleur compare la durée écoulée entre le déverrouillage de la grenade par retrait de la goupille et le mouvement du levier à une durée de référence, ici égale à 300 millisecondes. Si cette durée écoulée est inférieure à 300 millisecondes, le microcontrôleur cesse, à l'étape 120, la mise en oeuvre du processus d'initiation de la grenade. Si la durée écoulée est supérieure à 300 millisecondes, le microcontrôleur déclenche des moyens de temporisation en vue de l'alimentation retardée du dispositif d'initiation 52. En particulier un nouveau compteur H2 est déclenché à l'étape 122.After closing the switch 90 translating the movement of the lever 16, the microcontroller brings work of comparison means which verify, at the stage 118, if the duration recorded by the H1 counter is greater at 100 milliseconds. This amounts to checking whether the duration recorded by the counter H1, at which are added the 200 milliseconds corresponding to the duration load of the first storage means is greater at 300 milliseconds. So the microcontroller compares the time elapsed between unlocking the grenade by removal of the pin and movement of the lever to a reference duration, here equal to 300 milliseconds. Yes this elapsed time is less than 300 milliseconds, the microcontroller stops, in step 120, the setting work of the pomegranate initiation process. If the elapsed time is greater than 300 milliseconds, the microcontroller triggers timing means in view of the delayed feeding of the initiation device 52. In particular a new H2 counter is triggered in step 122.

Parallèlement à la mise en oeuvre des moyens de temporisation, et comme cela est représenté sur la figure 4, la poursuite du déplacement du levier 16 conduit à l'extraction progressive du cavalier 22 qui ouvre ainsi l'interrupteur 88, faisant cesser le court-circuit aux bornes du dispositif d'initiation 52. Après le retrait du cavalier 22, le module pyrotechnique primaire 6 est libre de se déplacer. Il s'emboíte alors, comme représenté sur la figure 5, dans le module pyrotechnique secondaire 10 sous l'effet du doigt 24 chargé par le ressort 28. Le godet 42 pénètre ainsi dans la chambre 44, conduisant à l'alignement des modules pyrotechniques complémentaires.In parallel with the implementation of the means of time delay, and as shown in the figure 4, the continued movement of the lever 16 leads to the progressive extraction of the jumper 22 which thus opens switch 88, making the short circuit stop initiator 52 terminals. After removing the jumper 22, the primary pyrotechnic module 6 is free to move. It then fits, as shown on FIG. 5, in the secondary pyrotechnic module 10 under the effect of finger 24 loaded by the spring 28. The well 42 thus enters chamber 44, leading to the alignment of the additional pyrotechnic modules.

A l'étape 124, le microcontrôleur contrôle si la durée correspondant à la valeur du compteur H2 est supérieure à une première période de temps prédéterminée T1. La période T1 est par exemple égale à la moitié du retard T souhaité pour l'explosion de la grenade. Si tel n'est pas le cas, le compteur H2 est incrémenté à l'étape 126. L'incrémentation se poursuit jusqu'à ce que la durée représentée par le compteur H2 soit supérieure à la période T1. Lorsque cette condition est vérifiée, le commutateur 84 est inversé, à l'étape 128, sous la commande du microcontrôleur, de sorte que les moyens de stockage 46 transfèrent une partie de leur énergie électrique aux moyens de stockage 48. Ces derniers sont ainsi progressivement chargés, à un rythme imposé par la résistance de charge 86. La valeur de cette dernière est calculée de sorte que les moyens de stockage 48 soient chargés avec une charge correspondant à l'énergie nécessaire à l'actionnement du dispositif d'initiation 52 à l'issue d'une période de temps T2 correspondant à la moitié restante du retard T.In step 124, the microcontroller checks whether the duration corresponding to the value of the counter H2 is greater than a first predetermined period of time T 1 . The period T 1 is for example equal to half of the delay T desired for the explosion of the grenade. If this is not the case, the counter H2 is incremented in step 126. The incrementation continues until the duration represented by the counter H2 is greater than the period T 1 . When this condition is verified, the switch 84 is inverted, in step 128, under the control of the microcontroller, so that the storage means 46 transfer part of their electrical energy to the storage means 48. The latter are thus progressively charged, at a rate imposed by the load resistor 86. The value of the latter is calculated so that the storage means 48 are charged with a charge corresponding to the energy necessary for actuation of the initiation device 52 to the end of a time period T 2 corresponding to the remaining half of the delay T.

A l'étape 130, le microcontrôleur vérifie si la durée mesurée par le compteur H2 est supérieure au retard T. Si tel n'est pas le cas, il incrémente, à l'étape 132, le compteur H2. L'incrémentation se poursuit jusqu'à ce que la durée mesurée par le compteur H2, soit supérieure à la période T. Le microcontrôleur commande alors, à l'étape 134, l'inversion du commutateur 84, de sorte que le dispositif électrique d'initiation 52 est mis sous tension à la sortie des moyens de stockage 48. Son alimentation a pour effet d'initier, à l'étape 136, la charge 54, qui par effet thermique, initie le microdétonateur 56. Ce dernier, par effet radial, entraíne la détonation du relais 62. Ainsi, la charge principale de la grenade se trouve initiée, de sorte que la grenade explose. Lors de l'explosion de la grenade, les différents constituants du bouchon allumeur se trouvent détruits.In step 130, the microcontroller checks whether the duration measured by the H2 counter is greater than the delay T. If this is not the case, it increments, at step 132, the H2 counter. The incrementation continues until the duration measured by the H2 counter, be greater at period T. The microcontroller then commands, at step 134, reversing the switch 84, so that the electrical initiation device 52 is put under voltage at the output of the storage means 48. Sound feeding has the effect of initiating, in step 136, the charge 54, which by thermal effect, initiates the microdetonator 56. The latter, by radial effect, causes the detonation of relay 62. Thus, the main charge of the grenade is initiated, so that the grenade explodes. When the grenade exploded, the different components of the igniter plug are found destroyed.

On comprend qu'avec un tel bouchon allumeur, les moyens de temporisation du dispositif à retard, gérés par le microcontrôleur, ne sont déclenchés que si la durée écoulée entre le déverrouillage de la goupille et le mouvement du levier est supérieure à une durée de référence qui est, dans l'exemple décrit, égale à 300 millisecondes. Ainsi, si la durée écoulée est inférieure à 300 millisecondes, c'est-à-dire que le levier n'a pas été maintenu suffisamment, l'initiation de la grenade est impossible. Dans ces conditions, un tel bouchon allumeur interdit l'explosion de la grenade si la goupille de sécurité a été retirée sans que le levier ne soit maintenu. Ceci évite le déclenchement accidentel du bouchon allumeur par simple retrait de la goupille.It is understood that with such an igniter plug, the delay means of the delay device, managed by the microcontroller, are only triggered if the duration elapsed between unlocking the pin and lever movement is greater than a reference duration which is, in the example described, equal to 300 milliseconds. So if the elapsed time is less than 300 milliseconds, that is, the lever was not maintained sufficiently, the initiation of the grenade is impossible. Under these conditions, such an igniter plug prohibits the explosion of the grenade if the pin of security was removed without the lever being held. This prevents accidental release of the plug igniter by simply removing the pin.

Par ailleurs, la présence de deux moyens de stockage successifs, disposés en cascade, et dont le second n'est chargé qu'après un temps déterminé permet également d'éviter tout déclenchement intempestif du dispositif d'initiation 52.In addition, the presence of two storage means successive, arranged in cascade, and of which the second is only charged after a specified time also allows avoid any untimely triggering of the device initiation 52.

De plus, avant l'extraction de la goupille 18, aucune charge électrique n'est stockée dans le bouchon allumeur, ni même aucune énergie mécanique susceptible d'être transformée en énergie électrique, ce qui évite les risques de mise en marche accidentel du dispositif électronique à retard.In addition, before the extraction of the pin 18, no electrical charge is stored in the plug igniter, or even any mechanical energy likely to be transformed into electrical energy, which avoids the risks of accidental starting of the device electronic delay.

Dans le mode de réalisation décrit ici, le bouchon allumeur de la grenade comporte un microcontrôleur. Celui-ci peut être remplacé par un ASIC spécialement conçu pour la mise en oeuvre des étapes successives de fonctionnement de la grenade.In the embodiment described here, the pomegranate igniter plug has a microcontroller. This can be replaced by a specially designed ASIC designed for the implementation of successive stages of the grenade.

De même, les moyens de détection de seuil de tension 82 peuvent ne pas prendre la forme d'un dispositif indépendant et être formés par une simple connexion des premiers moyens de stockage 46 à la borne de remise à zéro du microcontrôleur.Likewise, the threshold detection means of voltage 82 may not take the form of a device independent and be trained by a simple connection first storage means 46 at the delivery terminal to zero of the microcontroller.

De plus, les moyens de commutation 84 peuvent prendre la forme d'un commutateur, comme représenté sur la figure 6. Toutefois, ils peuvent également être constitués par deux interrupteurs électroniques commandés par le microcontrôleur 50 et disposés en série entre la résistance de charge 86 et l'interrupteur 88. In addition, the switching means 84 can take the form of a switch, as shown in Figure 6. However, they can also be consisting of two controlled electronic switches by the microcontroller 50 and arranged in series between the load resistance 86 and switch 88.

La sortie des seconds moyens de stockage 48 est alors connectée entre les deux interrupteurs montés en série.The output of the second storage means 48 is then connected between the two switches mounted in series.

Le microcontrôleur commande ces deux interrupteurs afin qu'ils soient dans des états différents et en particulier que les seconds moyens de stockage 48 soient d'abord reliés aux premiers moyens de stockage 46 puis au dispositif électrique d'initiation 52.The microcontroller controls these two switches so that they are in different states and in particular that the second storage means 48 are first connected to the first storage means 46 then to the electric initiation device 52.

Claims (11)

  1. A delay action fuse for a pyrotechnical device, in particular a manually or mechanically launched grenade, the fuse comprising a body (4) containing a main charge (66) and a trigger lever (16) co-operating with a delay device (8) suitable for initiating the charge (66) after a predetermined delay has elapsed after the lever (16) has moved, the fuse further comprising a locking member (18) preventing the lever (16) from moving, the delay device (8) comprising timer means suitable for providing delayed initiation of the charge and electronic trigger means for triggering the timer means, the fuse being characterized in that the trigger means include comparator means for comparing the duration that elapses between the locking member (18) being unlocked and the lever (16) moving with a reference duration, so as to trigger said timer means only if said elapsed duration is greater than said reference duration.
  2. A fuse according to claim 1, characterized in that the comparator means comprise means for estimating said elapsed duration.
  3. A fuse according to claim 2, characterized in that it includes a normally open electrical switch (90) which is closed by the lever (16) moving, and in that closure of said switch (90) causes said estimator means to stop.
  4. A fuse according to claim 2 or claim 3, characterized in that it includes an electricity generator (14) actuated by said locking member (18) while it is being unlocked, and in that said electricity generator (14) powers said delay device (8).
  5. A fuse according to claim 4, characterized in that it includes ejector means (28) for ejecting said electricity generator (14) under the control of the lever (16) moving.
  6. A fuse according to claim 5, characterized in that said ejector means comprise a spring (28) initially held in the loaded state by said lever (16) and having its ends bearing respectively against said electricity generator (14) and said body (4) of the fuse.
  7. A fuse according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that said electronic trigger means include first electrical energy storage means (46) connected to said electricity generator (14) and having said comparator means connected thereto so as to be electrically powered thereby.
  8. A fuse according to claims 2 and 7 taken together, characterized in that said means for estimating said elapsed duration comprise a clock powered by said first storage means (46) after they have been charged, and in that the estimate of said elapsed duration is given by the sum of the estimated duration required for charging said first storage means (46) plus the duration measured by the clock between the end of said first storage means (80) being charged and the lever (16) moving.
  9. A fuse according to claim 7 or claim 8, characterized in that the delay device (8) includes second storage means (48) selectively connected via switch means (48) under the control of said timer means either to the first storage means (46) or to an electrical device (52) for initiating the charge.
  10. A fuse according to claim 9, characterized in that a load resistor (86) is interposed between the first and second storage means (46, 48) to determine the time taken to charge the second storage means.
  11. A fuse according to claim 9 or claim 10, characterized in that said timer means are adapted firstly to cause the second storage means (48) to be connected to the first storage means (46) in order to be charged with electrical energy after a first time period (T1), and then to cause the second storage means (48) to be connected to the charge initiator device (52) after a second time period (T).
EP97931871A 1997-07-04 1997-07-04 Delay action fuse assembly for pyrotechnical device Expired - Lifetime EP0991910B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/FR1997/001204 WO1999001715A2 (en) 1997-07-04 1997-07-04 Electronic delay action fuse assembly for pyrotechnical device

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0991910A1 EP0991910A1 (en) 2000-04-12
EP0991910B1 true EP0991910B1 (en) 2002-04-17

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP97931871A Expired - Lifetime EP0991910B1 (en) 1997-07-04 1997-07-04 Delay action fuse assembly for pyrotechnical device

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EP (1) EP0991910B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE216487T1 (en)
AU (1) AU3547297A (en)
DE (1) DE69712109T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2174266T3 (en)
WO (1) WO1999001715A2 (en)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102018128485B4 (en) * 2018-11-14 2022-05-05 Rheinmetall Waffe Munition Gmbh Electronic detonator unit for an irritation body and irritation body

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CH610651A5 (en) * 1976-03-10 1979-04-30 Technico Dev Finance Hand grenade with electrical detonation
FR2483068B1 (en) * 1980-05-21 1986-09-26 Ruggieri Ets ELECTRONIC ROCKET FOR HAND OR RIFLE GRENADE
FR2510250A1 (en) * 1981-07-24 1983-01-28 France Etat Hand contact sensor for grenade detonator - uses oscillator with coil wound within detonator cap whose inductance is varied by proximity of hand
FR2745080B1 (en) * 1996-02-21 1998-05-15 Ruggieri DELAYED IGNITION PLUG FOR PYROTECHNIC APPARATUS

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU3547297A (en) 1999-01-25
DE69712109D1 (en) 2002-05-23
ATE216487T1 (en) 2002-05-15
ES2174266T3 (en) 2002-11-01
WO1999001715A2 (en) 1999-01-14
EP0991910A1 (en) 2000-04-12
DE69712109T2 (en) 2002-10-31
WO1999001715A3 (en) 2002-02-14

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