Self cleaning contact mechanism for artillery shell - has rotating contact completing electrical circuit as cover is removed and breaking circuit when inserted

摘要

The contact mechanism includes an L-shaped component pivoting about a pin inside the cover which normally fits over a shell before it is opened for use. A stop projecting inwards from the flange of this cover is arranged to co-operate with the pivoted component. When the cover is fitted over the shell, the L-shaped component is rotated so that the long arm of the L lies parallel to the axis of the shell. When the cover is withdrawn, the component is rotated since the stop acts against the short arm. A peg attached to the component is then moved so that it comes into contact with a fixed terminal in order to link it to a further contact completing the electrical circuit. The movement ensures that the contacts are self-cleaning so that they may make a good connection even after prolonged storage.