Explosive-driven, high speed, arcless switch

Patent · Thu Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1987

OSTI ID:866310

Skogmo, Phillip J ^[1]; Tucker, Tillman J ^[1]

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1. Albuquerque, NM

An explosive-actuated, fast-acting arcless switch contains a highly conductive foil to carry high currents positioned adjacent a dielectric surface within a casing. At one side of the foil opposite the dielectric surface is an explosive which, when detonated, drives the conductive foil against the dielectric surface. A pattern of grooves in the dielectric surface ruptures the foil to establish a rupture path having a pattern corresponding to the pattern of the grooves. The impedance of the ruptured foil is greater than that of the original foil to divert high current to a load. Planar and cylindrical embodiments of the switch are disclosed.

• Research Organization: AT & T CORP
• DOE Contract Number: AC04-76DP00789
• Assignee: United States of America as represented by United States (Washington, DC)
• Patent Number(s): US 4680434
• OSTI ID: 866310
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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