Explosively separable link

摘要

The present invention is an explosively separable link provided in a strap assembly for automatic disengagement of two connected link members upon the occurrence of a predetermined event. The link assembly includes a first link member substantially in the form of a yoke having a pair of oppositely disposed coaxial apertures, one in each arm of the yoke. A second link member is provided and comprises a housing positioned between the arms of the yoke and includes a pair of opposed outwardly extending pins, each of which is cooperably received in one of the apertures in the yoke arm to permit relative rotation between the link members about the axis of the apertures. The housing in the second link includes a cylindrical bore coaxial with the axis of the apertures. Slidably positioned in the cylindrical bore are a pair of oppositely disposed piston members which are in substantially gas-tight relationship with the cylinder wall. The outer faces of the piston members are operably connected to the pins which are received in the apertures in the yoke arms. Means are provided to admit pressurized gas to the outer face of each of the piston members to force them inwardly and thereby withdraw the pins from their associated apertures.