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US4394997A
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Sequential time discrimination system for sub-delivery systems
Assignee: Hughes Missile Systems Co
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Filing: 1982-01-12
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Granted: 1983-07-26
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Expires: 2002-01-12
Abstract
Abstract A delivery system for multiple sub-missiles including in the sub-missiles a marking system, a detection system, a diverter for elimination of targets identified by the detector system, a scanner for initial determination of multiple targets, a logic circuit utilizing input from both the diverter and the scanner to eliminate targets and a sub-missile guidance system.
Inventors
- 👤 Inge Maudal
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-30 16:22
CPC Classifications
F; F41; F41G; F41G7/00; F41G7/20; F41G7/22; F41G7/2253; F41G7/007; F41G7/2233; F41G7/2273; F41G7/2293
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 8
Claim 1
Independent Claim
62 words
A method for directing a plurality of sub-missiles to selected targets comprising the steps of: sequentially and at predetermined time intervals releasing a succession of guided sub-vehicles directed to at least one predetermined target; marking a target upon impact by a sub-vehicle; detecting the marking of the impacted target; and directing subsequently released sub-vehicles to preselected targets other than an impacted target.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
62 words
A method for directing a plurality of sub-missiles to selected targets comprising the steps of: sequentially and at predetermined time intervals releasing a succession of guided sub-vehicles directed to at least one predetermined target; marking a target upon impact by a sub-vehicle; detecting the marking of the impacted target; and directing subsequently released sub-vehicles to preselected targets other than an impacted target.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method of claim 1 wherein the step of marking the target on impact comprises using a warhead which includes a petroleum based component which is combustible on impact.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
19 words
The method of claim 1 wherein the step of identifying a marked target includes sensing a burning petroleum-based material.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
38 words
The method of claim 1 wherein the predetermined time interval between release of succeeding first and second sub-vehicles is at least as great as the time of flight of a sub-vehicle from point of release to target impact.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 1 wherein a marking agent is combined in a warhead on the sub-vehicle, which warhead explodes on impact and activates the marking agent.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 5 wherein the marking agent is a petroleum-based material which ignites upon explosion of the warhead.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 1 wherein the sub-vehicles are mortar rounds which are sequentially released by launching at separate times.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1986-07-25 | 1987-01-24 | 1987-07-26 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1990-07-25 | 1991-01-24 | 1991-07-26 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1994-07-25 | 1995-01-24 | 1995-07-26 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |