Multiple arc plasma initiating ignition/combustions in a cartridge for a projectile

摘要

The injector device enables the formation of a segmented, isolated distribution of plasma arcs which are incubated to form a specified energy level of plasma discharge tailored to initiate ignition and establish efficient combustion in a particular segment of a propellant mass 48. The device includes a capillary 20 in which a conductive path comprising electrodes 24, 34, 36 is maintained. Specialized electrodes 34 provide geometric and dimensional flexibility to establish plasma arc and plasma discharge characteristics that are compatible with different zones of the propellant mass. Discharge vents 40, in combination with the electrodes, covered by a rupturable membrane 46, enable the development of a series of regions in the capillary from which plasma discharge is introduced into the propellant mass. IMAGE