Projectile diverter

Abstract

The present invention provides a fast, low-cost, small diverter capable of generating a relatively high impulse (1-5 N-sec) over a short time period. The diverter is adapted for installation in a projectile for steering the projectile in flight by ejecting an end cap in response to control signals from a guidance system. In one embodiment, multiple diverters are arranged in one or more bands about a flying projectile such as a rocket. Each diverter includes a header assembly providing a mounting surface and support for a plurality of electrical leads, a reactive semiconductor bridge mounted on the mounting surface of the header assembly and providing an electrical path for the electrical leads at a certain voltage across the bridge, a diverter body supporting the header assembly and containing a prime, wherein the reactive semiconductor bridge and the prime define a gap, and an end cap attached to the diverter body and containing a propellant.

What is claimed:  
     
         1 . A diverter adapted for installation in a flying projectile, comprising: 
 a header assembly providing a mounting surface and support for a plurality of electrical leads;    a reactive semiconductor bridge mounted on the mounting surface of the header assembly and providing an electrical path for the electrical leads at a certain voltage across the bridge;    a diverter body supporting the header assembly and containing a prime, wherein the reactive semiconductor bridge and the prime define a gap; and    an end cap attached to the diverter body and containing a propellant, wherein the rapid burning of the propellant produces gases, which eject the end cap from the diverter body to produce a force to divert the flying projectile.