Delay fuse for explosive projectile - includes stepping motor completing ignition chain after launching by moving component back into line

摘要

The fuse arrangement for an explosive projectile is intended to delay the setting of the fuse for a period of time after firing, so as to avoid any risk of premature detonation. The fuse includes a movable mechanical component which may interrupt the pyrotechnic chain between the detonator and the charge. A micro-motor is provided within the projectile for moving the mechanical component back into the position where it re-establishes the chain. The motor is preferably a stepping motor supplied with current pulses at a controllable frequency. The frequency may be adjusted to vary the time delay in re-establishing the chain. To supply the motor a thermal battery is provided which may be actuated by the pyrotechnic chain. This battery may also be used to operate the electric firing mechanism.