Electromagnetic projectile launcher with explosive-start and plasma drive

摘要

An electromagnetic projectile launcher is provided with an insulating cartridge having an internal pressure chamber and an aperture for receiving a projectile assembly. A fuse element within the pressure chamber is electrically connected to a pair of generally parallel conductive launcher rails. Current flow through the fuse element causes it to explode and create a high pressure plasma within the pressure chamber. This high pressure plasma forces the projectile assembly to accelerate away from the cartridge and later serves as a means for conducting current between the conductive rails and for propelling the projectile assembly along the rails.