Inventors:
Harold F. Steinmetz - Ferguson MO
Gerald H. Wisdom - Florissant MO
Assignee:
The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air
Force - Washington DC
International Classification:
F42B 15027
F42B 15053
Abstract:
The invention comprises a fin fold mechanism for extending a moveable fin from an air flight vehicle wherein the fin deployment mechanism is fixably housed within the vehicle. A pyrotechnic gas generation actuation means is positioned within the fin extension mechanism in order to actuate a drive mechanism comprising a drive piston that pivots the fin into its extended position. Clutch means is connected to the piston for transferring movement from the piston to the moveable fin. A retraction mechanism is also provided for disconnecting the clutch means from the fin after the fin is fully extended; this allows controlled axial rotation of the fin.