EXPENDABLES

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to aircraft defense systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a countermeasure dispensing system (CMDS). Specifically, the present disclosure relates to methods for delay dispersion of chaff within countermeasure expendables.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In current military technologies, military platforms, such as a military aircraft, include at least one CMDS. The CMDS dispenses countermeasure expendables (/.e., chaff material or flares) from the military platform to counter a detected incoming threat, such as a missile, and redirect such incoming threat away from the platform and towards the ejected material. In a conventional CMDS, such as the AN/ALE-47 CMDS used on a military platform, a CMDS is generally loaded with RR-170 countermeasure expendables or RR-180 countermeasure expendables. Each of these RR-170 countermeasure expendables or RR- 180 countermeasure expendables are loaded with a predetermined volume of chaff material.

[0003] Traditionally, countermeasure expendables in a CMDS are ejected and dispensed at different time intervals to adequately deter and redirect enemy threats away from the platform. During a military operation, conventional countermeasure expendables, such as the RR-170 and RR-180, dispense the predetermined volume of chaff material directly into the airstream adjacent to the host military platform. In other words, the chaff material is immediately dispensed into the airstream upon ejection from the military platform.

[0004] However, the immediate dispersion of chaff material adjacent to the military platform may cause risk or danger to the military platform for a number of reasons. In one instance, the chaff material dispensed adjacent to the military platform may be too close to the military platform causing ballistic issues to the military platform caused by the detonation of an enemy threat. In another instance, immediate dispersion of the chaff material may result in inadequate dispersion into the airstream thereby decreasing the likelihood of an enemy threat being redirected towards the chaff material and away from the military platform. To address these issues, the military platform may eject and dispense more countermeasure expendables during certain military operation given the immediate and close dispersion of chaff material relative to the military platform. Such mass ejection and dispersion of countermeasure expendables during a military operation may result in less efficiency and conservation of countermeasure expendables during a military operation.

SUMMARY

[0005] The presently disclosed countermeasure expendables provide a military platform with different types of delay assemblies and mechanisms to adequately delay dispersion of countermeasure material at a suitable distance away from the military platform. Such delayed dispersion of countermeasure material may allow the countermeasure material to be dispensed remote from the military platform for protecting said military platform from ballistic issues caused by an enemy threat. Such delayed dispersion of countermeasure material may also allow the countermeasure material to be dispensed at a randomized and/or unprogrammable delay, via certain delay assemblies, that is dependent upon the airstream interacting with the delay assembly. As such, the countermeasure expendables disclosed herein addresses some of the inadequacies of previously known countermeasure expendables.

[0006] In one aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a countermeasure expendable. The countermeasure expendable has a canister. The countermeasure expendable also has at least one countermeasure payload operably engaged inside the canister, the at least one countermeasure payload having a volume of countermeasure material. The countermeasure expendable also has a squib operably engaged inside of the canister, wherein the squib is configured to propel the at least one countermeasure payload outside of the canister. The countermeasure expendable also has at least one time delaying assembly operably engaged with the at least one countermeasure payload, wherein the time delaying assembly is configured to dispense the volume of countermeasure material from the at least one countermeasure payload at a predetermined time interval.

[0007] This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the at least one time delaying assembly further comprises a case configured to hold the at least one countermeasure payload; a sequencing igniter device operatively engaged with the case, wherein the sequencing igniter device is moveable between a first configuration and a second configuration; an energy pellet operably engaged with the sequencing igniter device, wherein the energy pellet is ignitable via the squib; a time delay fuse operably engaged inside of the case, wherein the time delay fuse is configured to be ignitable via the energy pellet; and a bursting charge operably engaged with the time delay fuse inside of the case, wherein the bursting charge is configured to be ignitable via the time delay fuse. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the volume of countermeasure payload remains inside of the case when the sequencing igniter device is provided in the first configuration inside of the canister. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the volume of countermeasure payload is dispensed from the case when the sequencing igniter device is provided in the second configuration outside of the canister; and wherein the energy pellet ignites the time delay fuse and the bursting charge. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the time delaying assembly further comprises a case configured to hold the at least one countermeasure payload, wherein the case has a clamshell configuration configured to be moveable between a closed position to an opened position; a sequencing igniter device operatively engaged with the case, wherein the sequencing igniter device is moveable between a first configuration and a second configuration; an energy pellet operably engaged with the sequencing igniter device, wherein the energy pellet is ignitable via the squib; a time delay fuse operably engaged inside of the case, wherein the time delay fuse is configured to be ignitable via the squib; a retaining member operably engaged with the time delay fuse and the case, wherein the retaining member is configured to be ignitable via the time delay fuse; and a biaser provided inside of the case, wherein the biaser is moveable between a collapsed position and an expanded position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the volume of countermeasure payload remains inside of the case when the sequencing igniter device is provided in the first configuration inside of the canister and the retaining member is operably engaged with the time delay fuse; and wherein the biaser is provided in the collapsed position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the volume of countermeasure payload is ejected from the case when the sequencing igniter device is provided in the second configuration outside of the canister and the energy pellet collectively ignites the time delay fuse and the retaining member; and wherein the biaser is provided in the expanded position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the time delay assembly further comprises: a case configured to hold the at least one countermeasure payload, wherein the case has a clamshell configuration configured to be moveable between a closed position to an opened position; a cap operably engaged to a first end of the case, wherein the cap is configured to provide a hinge mechanism to move said case between the closed position to the opened position; a threaded shaft extending from an opposing second end of the case; a wingnut operably engaged with the threaded shaft between an engaged position and a disengaged position; and a biaser provided inside of the case, wherein the biaser is moveable between a collapsed position and an expanded position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the volume of countermeasure payload remains inside of the case when provided in the closed position; wherein the wingnut is provided in the engaged position with the threaded shaft; and wherein the biaser is provided in the collapsed position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the volume of countermeasure payload is ejected from the case when provided in the opened position; wherein the wingnut is provided in the disengaged position with the threaded shaft via the airstream loosening the wingnut from the threaded shaft; and wherein the biaser is provided in the expanded position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the time delay assembly further comprises a first endcap operably engaging a first end of the at least one countermeasure payload; an opposing second endcap operably engaging an opposing second end of the at least one countermeasure payload; and a film material circumferentially disposed about the at least one countermeasure payload between the first endcap and the second endcap, wherein one end of the film material is engaged with the at least one countermeasure payload. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the time delay assembly further comprises a packet loaded with at least one countermeasure payload; a logic controller operably connected to the squib, wherein the logic controller is configured to retain a charge of electrical energy via an onboard electrical device; and a bursting charge operably connected to the logic controller, wherein the bursting charge is configured to detonate at a predetermined time period upon receiving an electrical signal from the logic controller for dispensing the at least one countermeasure payload from the packet. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the time delay assembly further comprises a packet loaded with at least one countermeasure payload; a spool operably engaged inside of the canister; a rip cord wound about the spool, the rip cord having a first end operably engaged with the canister and an opposing second end remote from the spool; a cutting member operably engaged with the second end of the rip cord, wherein the cutting member is configured to cut the packet for dispensing the at least one countermeasure payload when the rip cord reaches maximum length; and a plunger disposed between the spool and the at least one countermeasure payload, wherein the plunger is configured to contain a pressure created by the squib behind the packet. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the time delay assembly further comprises a packet loaded with at least one countermeasure payload; a rip cord; a drogue parachute operably engaged with a first end of the rip cord; a cutting member operably engaged with the second end of the rip cord, wherein the cutting member is configured to cut the packet for dispensing the at least one countermeasure payload as the drogue parachute transitions from a closed state to an open state and the rip cord reaches maximum length; and a plunger disposed between the spool and the at least one countermeasure payload, wherein the plunger is configured to contain a pressure created by the squib behind the packet.

[0008] In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method. The method comprises the steps of: loading at least one countermeasure payload into a countermeasure expendable of a plurality of countermeasure expendables; effecting the plurality of countermeasure expendables to be loaded on to a platform; effecting a countermeasure dispensing system to initiate; effecting the at one countermeasure payload from the countermeasure expendable to be ejected via a squib; effecting a time delay assembly of the at least one countermeasure payload to be initiated; and effecting the time delay assembly of the at least one countermeasure payload to dispense a volume of countermeasure material from the at least one countermeasure payload at a predetermined time delay.

[0009] This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide the steps of effecting a sequencing igniter device of the time delay assembly to transition from a first configuration to a second configuration; effecting an energy pellet of the time delay assembly to be ignited, via the squib, at a first time interval; effecting a time delay fuse of the time delay assembly to be ignited, via the energy pellet, at a second time interval; and effecting a bursting charge of the time delay assembly to be ignited, via the time delay fuse, at a third time interval. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide the steps of effecting a sequencing igniter device of the time delay assembly to transition from a first configuration to a second configuration; effecting an energy pellet of the time delay assembly to be ignited, via the squib, at a first time interval; effecting a time delay fuse of the time delay assembly to ignite, via the squib, at a second time interval; effecting a retaining member of the time delay assembly to be ignite, via the time delay fuse, at a third time interval; effecting a biaser of the time delay assembly to transition from a collapsed position to an expanded position; and effecting a case of the time delay assembly to transition, via the biaser and the retaining member, from a closed position to an open position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide the steps of effecting a wingnut of the time delay assembly to loosen from a threaded shaft of said time delay assembly of a clamshell case of said time delay assembly, via an airstream, from an engaged position to a disengaged position; effecting a biaser of the time delay assembly to transition from a collapsed position to an expanded position; and effecting a case of the time delay assembly to transition, via the biaser and the wingnut, from a closed position to an open position. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide the steps of effecting a logic controller of the time delay assembly to be electrically charged, via an on-board power source of the platform, at a first time interval; and effecting a bursting charge of the time delay assembly to detonate, via the logic controller, at a second time interval. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide the steps of effecting a plunger of the time delay assembly to assist in moving the at least one countermeasure payload away from the platform via the squib; effecting a rip cord of the time delay assembly to unwind from a spool of the time delay assembly as the at least one countermeasure payload travels away from the platform; and effecting a cutting member of the time delay assembly to cut a packet of the time delay assembly via the rip cord.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Sample embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth in the following description, are shown in the drawings and are particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims.

[0011] Figure 1 (FIG.1) is a diagrammatic view showing a platform having a CMDS with countermeasure payloads in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, wherein the CMDS with the countermeasure payloads are being used when an incoming enemy threat is detected.

[0012] Figure 2 (FIG.2) is a top, rear, right side isometric perspective view of a countermeasure expendable with a squib loaded into the countermeasure expendable.

[0013] Figure 3 (FIG.3) is a top, rear, right side isometric perspective view of a time delay assembly of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.2, wherein a canister of the countermeasure expendable is removed.

[0014] Figure 4 (FIG.4) is a rear, top, right side isometric perspective exploded view of a sequencing igniter device of the time delay assembly shown in FIG.3.

[0015] Figure 5 (FIG.5) is a longitudinal section view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.2. [0016] Figure 6 (FIG.6) is an enlargement view of the highlighted region in FIG.5.

[0017] Figure 7 A (FIG.7A) is an operational view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.6, wherein a squib of the countermeasure expendable is detonated and ejects the time delay assembly from the canister.

[0018] Figure 7B (FIG.7B) is another operational view similar to FIG.7A, but a front gate and a rear gate of the sequencing igniter device transition from collapsed positions to expanded positions outside of the canister.

[0019] Figure 7C (FIG.7C) is another operational view similar to FIG.7B, but a case of the time delay assembly separates from the sequencing igniter device once outside of the canister.

[0020] Figure 8 (FIG.8) is a rear, top, right side isometric perspective view of a time delay assembly of an alternative countermeasure expendable similar to the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.3, wherein a canister of the alternative countermeasure expendable is removed.

[0021] Figure 9 (FIG.9) is a rear, top, right side isometric perspective exploded view of a sequencing igniter device of the time delay assembly shown in FIG.8.

[0022] Figure 10 (FIG.10) is a front, top, right side isometric perspective exploded view of the sequencing igniter device of the time delay assembly shown in FIG.9, wherein a push plate of the sequencing igniter device is removed.

[0023] Figure 11 A (FIG.11A) is a front elevation view of the sequencer igniter device shown in FIG.9, wherein a gate of the sequencer igniter device is provided in a collapsed position.

[0024] Figure 11 B (FIG.11 B) is a front elevation view of the sequencer igniter device similar to FIG.11 A, but the gate of the sequence igniter device is provided in an expanded position.

[0025] Figure 12 (FIG.12) is a longitudinal section view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.8, wherein each time delay fuse of a plurality of time delay fuses of the countermeasure expendable is substantially identical to one another. [0026] Figure 12A (FIG.12A) is another longitudinal section view of the countermeasure expendable shown similarly in FIG.8, each time delay fuse of the plurality of time delay fuses of the countermeasure expendable is different from one another.

[0027] Figure 13 (FIG.13) is an operational view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.8, wherein a plurality of energy pellets of the countermeasure expendable is ignited via a squib of the countermeasure expendable, and wherein the gate of the sequencer igniter device transitioned from the collapsed position to the expanded position once outside of the canister.

[0028] Figure 14 (FIG.14) is a longitudinal section view of another countermeasure expendable similar to the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.3.

[0029] Figure 15A (FIG.15A) is an operational view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.14, wherein the energy pellet is ignited via a squib of the countermeasure expendable, wherein front and rear gates of a sequencer igniter device of a time delay assembly transitioned from the collapsed position to the expanded position once outside of a canister, and wherein a time delay fuse of the time delay assembly is ignited via the energy pellet.

[0030] Figure 15B (FIG.15B) is another operational view of the countermeasure expendable similar to FIG.15A, but a case of the time delay assembly separates from the sequencing igniter device once outside of the canister, wherein the time delay fuse and a retaining member of the time delay assembly are both ignited via the energy pellet.

[0031] Figure 15C (FIG.15C) is another operational view of the countermeasure expendable similar to FIG.15B, but the case bifurcates into two separate portions once the retaining member is unable to retain the two portions of the case.

[0032] Figure 16 (FIG.16) is a rear, top, right side isometric perspective view of a time delay assembly of an alternative countermeasure expendable similar to the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG. 14, wherein a canister of the alternative countermeasure expendable is removed.

[0033] Figure 17 (FIG.17) is a rear, top, right side isometric perspective exploded view of the alternative countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.16. [0034] Figure 18 (FIG.18) is a longitudinal section view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG. 16, wherein a plurality of time delay assemblies is provided inside a single canister of the countermeasure expendable.

[0035] Figure 19A (FIG.19A) is an operational view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG. 16, wherein a first time delay assembly of the plurality of time delay assemblies is ejected from the canister via an energy pellet, and wherein a time delay fuse of the first time delay assembly is ignited via the energy pellet.

[0036] Figure 19B (FIG.19B) is another operational view of the countermeasure expendable similar to FIG.19A, but the first time delay assembly is outside of the canister and a greater portion of the time delay fuse is destroyed as compared to the time delay fuse shown in FIG.19A.

[0037] Figure 19C (FIG.19C) is another operational view of the countermeasure expendable similar to FIG.19C, but a retaining member of the first time assembly is ignited and destroyed, via the time delay fuse, and wherein first and second portions of a case of the first time delay assembly separate from one another via front and rear biasers.

[0038] Figure 20 (FIG.20) is a rear, top, right side isometric perspective view of a time delay assembly of another countermeasure expendable.

[0039] Figure 21 (FIG.21 ) is a rear, top, right side isometric perspective exploded view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.20.

[0040] Figure 22 (FIG.22) is a longitudinal section view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.22, wherein a wingnut of each time delay assembly of a plurality of time delay assembly is positioned at different distances for different time delays

[0041] Figure 23A (FIG.23A) is an operational view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.20, wherein a first time delay assembly of the plurality of time delay assembly is ejected from a canister, and wherein the wingnut of the first time delay assembly is loosening from a threaded portion of the first time delay assembly via airstream passing over said wingnut.

[0042] Figure 23B (FIG.23B) is another operational view of the countermeasure expendable similarly shown in FIG.23A, but the wingnut of the first time delay assembly is completely loosened from the threaded portion, and wherein the first time delay assembly opens via a biaser transitioning from a collapsed position to an expanded position.

[0043] Figure 24 (FIG.24) is a rear, top, right side isometric perspective view of a time delay assembly of another countermeasure expendable, wherein a canister of the countermeasure expendable is removed.

[0044] Figure 25 (FIG.25) is a longitudinal section view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.24, wherein a plurality of time delay assemblies identical to the time delay assembly shown in FIG.24 are loaded into the canister.

[0045] Figure 26A (FIG.26A) is an operational view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.24, wherein a first time delay assembly of the plurality time delay assemblies is ejected from the canister via a squib, and wherein a front end of a film material of the first time delay assembly unwraps via airstream passing over the front end of the film material.

[0046] Figure 26B (FIG.26B) is another operational view of the countermeasure expendable similar to FIG.26A, but a greater length of film material unwraps causing a front endcap to disengage from the film material.

[0047] Figure 27 (FIG.27) is a longitudinal section view of another countermeasure expendable.

[0048] Figure 28A (FIG.28A) is an operational view of the countermeasure expendable, wherein a logic controller of an electronic time delay assembly is being charged through electrical connection to a squib, and wherein the squib is being powered by a sequencer on-board the platform.

[0049] Figure 28B (FIG.28B) is another operational view of the countermeasure expendable similar to FIG.28A, but the logic controller is fully charged and the squib is detonated causing the time delay assembly to be ejected from a canister of the countermeasure expendable.

[0050] Figure 28C (FIG.28C) is another operational view of the countermeasure expendable similar to FIG.28B, but the logic controller sends a charge to a delay detonator at a predetermined time causing the delay detonator to detonate and open a case of the time delay assembly. [0051] Figure 29A (FIG.29A) is a longitudinal section view of another countermeasure expendable.

[0052] Figure 29B (FIG.29B) is an operational view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.29A, wherein a squib is detonated causing a portion of a time delay assembly to eject from a canister, and wherein a rip cord of the time delay assembly unwinds from a spool operably engaged within the canister.

[0053] Figure 29C (FIG.29C) is another operational view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.29B, but the rip cord completely unwinds from the spool causing a cutting member to cut and open a packet of the time delay assembly.

[0054] Figure 30A (FIG.30A) is an alternative countermeasure expendable of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.29A.

[0055] Figure 30B (FIG.30B) is an operational view of the countermeasure expendable shown in FIG.30A, wherein a drogue parachute of a time delay assembly of the alternative countermeasure expendable is opened via airstream passing into said drogue parachute.

[0056] Figure 31 (FIG.31) is an exemplary method flowchart.

[0057] Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] FIG. 1 illustrates a platform 1 such as a vehicle, ship or aircraft, which may be manned or unmanned, that includes a main body 2. As used herein, aircraft refers to fixed and rotary wing aircraft as well as UUVs and satellites. The main body 2 has a front end 2A and an opposed rear end 2B, a top end 2E, and an opposed bottom end 2F. It should be understood that the directions of “front,” “rear,” “top,” “bottom,” “right,” and “left” and other directional derivatives applied herein are only used as a directional reference for the main body 2, associated components and/or parts of the main body 2, and other countermeasure devices loaded into the main body 2 described and illustrated herein.

[0059] The platform 1 in this example is an aircraft and includes a sidewall 3 that extends from the front end 2A of the main body 2 to the rear end 2B of the main body 2. The sidewall 3 defines an opening 4 that is disposed between the front and rear ends 2A, 2B of the main body 2 that provides access to a chamber 5. The opening 4 and the chamber 5 defined by the sidewall 3 is sized and configured to receive a countermeasure dispensing system 6 (or “CMDS” hereinafter). The CMDS 6 operably engages the sidewall 3 of the main body 2 to mechanically fix the CMDS 6 to the platform 1 inside of the chamber 5. Upon mounting the CMDS 6, the CMDS 6 is electrically connected to a legacy wiring harness (not illustrated) that is provided in the platform 1 to provide power and communication to all electrical components in the CMDS 6, which is described in more detail below.

[0060] Prior to military operation or an aerial mission of the platform 1 , the CMDS is pre-loaded with a plurality of expendables 7. Each expendable of the plurality of expendables 7 is loaded with countermeasure material 8 for countermeasure purposes. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of expendables is loaded with chaff material. In addition, each expendable of the plurality of expendables 7 includes an impulse cartridge (not illustrated) for detonating and dispensing the expendables from the platform 1 . During military operation, the countermeasure material 8 provides a distraction to an incoming enemy threat 9, initiated by an enemy “E”, where the incoming enemy threat 9 is diverted to the countermeasure material 8 while allowing the platform 1 to remain unscathed. During military operation or an aerial mission, the platform 1 may receive a warning from an on-board electronic warfare (EW) system regarding the incoming enemy threat 9 approaching the platform 1. Upon a determination made by the on-board EW system and/or an operator, the CMDS 6 dispenses a calculated amount of expendables of the plurality of expendables 7 that are disposed underneath, behind, or to the side of the platform 1. In addition, the CMDS 6 may also be provided along any suitable location of the platform 1 other than sidewall 3 of the main body 2. In one exemplary embodiment, a CMDS may be provided within a wing of an aircraft. In another exemplary embodiment, a CMDS may be provided in a fuselage or a pod disposed on an aircraft. In another exemplary embodiment, a CMDS may be provided on a separate device operably engaging an aircraft (e.g., a towable device).

[0061] The CMDS 6 includes a dispenser (not illustrated) that is electrically connected to a sequencer 10 (schematic and/or diagrammatically referenced herein). Generally, the sequencer 10 of the CMDS 6 may be electrically connected to a breechplate (not illustrated) for operably controlling and dispensing countermeasure material 8 through a set of firing pins provided in the CDMS 6. The breechplate of the CMDS 6 may be operably engaged to a magazine (not illustrated) to hold the plurality of expendables 7. In addition, the breechplate and the magazine are electrically connected to allow the sequencer to discharge and dispense specific expendables from the magazine via the firing pins on the breechplate. Such discharging capabilities of the expendables 7 from the magazine are described in more detail below. [0062] The components of the CMDS 6 (/.e., dispenser, sequencer, breechplate, magazine, and other components of the like) may be any suitable component deemed desirable by a skilled artisan. In one exemplary embodiment, a skilled artisan may include legacy components for a CMDS currently used on a platform to hold and eject a plurality of expendables described and illustrated herein. In another exemplary embodiment, a skilled artisan may include new components for a CMDS not currently used on a platform to hold and eject a plurality of expendables described and illustrated herein.

[0063] FIGS.1-7C illustrate a countermeasure expendable 100. The countermeasure expendable 100 may include a canister 110. The canister 110 may house at least one time delaying assembly (or“TDA” described hereinafter) generally referred to as 130. The at least one TDA 130 may house at least one countermeasure payload 104 where the at least one TDA 130 may eject and dispense the at least one countermeasure payload 104 at a distance away from the platform 1 based on predetermined time delay. The countermeasure expendable 100 may also include a propulsion device positioned inside of the canister 110 with the TDA 130. The propulsion device may be used to collectively eject the TDA 130 and the countermeasure payload 104 from the canister 110 and away from the platform 1 during a military operation. Such use and operation of the countermeasure expendable 100 is described in more detail below.

[0064] Referring to FIG.2, the canister 110 includes a front end 110A, an opposed rear wall 110B, and a longitudinal axis that extends therebetween. The canister 110 also includes a pair of side walls 110C, 110D positioned parallel to one another and disposed between the front end 110A and the rear wall 102B, a top wall 110E, and an opposed bottom wall 110F. As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7B-7C, the canister 110 defines a front opening 112 that is disposed at the front end 110A of the canister 110 and provides access to a chamber 113 defined by the canister 110. The chamber 113 may be sized and configured to house at least one TDA 130 for a military operation.

[0065] Referring to FIGS.5-7A, the canister 110 may include a charge block 114. The charge block 114 may be provided with the canister 110 proximate to the rear end 110B and in fluid communication with the chamber 113. The charge block 114 may define at least one receptacle 116 that extends into charge block 114 towards the chamber 113 of the canister 110. The charge block 114 may also include at least one burst disk 118. The at least one burst disk 118 may be operably engaged with the charge block 114 proximate to the chamber 113 of the canister 110 and be in fluid communication with the at least one receptacle 116. The at least one burst disk 118 may be moveable between a static state and movable state, which is described in more detail below.

[0066] Still referring to FIGS.5-7A, a squib 120 may be operably engaged with the charge block 114 inside the at least one receptacle 116. The squib 120 may also be operably connected with a firing pin of a plurality of firing pins (not illustrated) of the breechplate as provided in the CMDS 6. Such engagement between the squib 120 and a firing pin of a plurality of firing pins allows the sequencer 10 to send signals and/or pulses to the countermeasure expendable 100 for ejecting and dispensing at least one TDA 130 with at least one countermeasure payload 104 loaded inside the at least one TDA 130. During operation, the squib 120 may exert pressure and/or flare into the at least one receptacle 116 and towards the at least one burst disk 118 to move the at least one burst disk 118 from a static state to a movable state. The pressure may be used to eject the at least one TDA 130 containing the at least one countermeasure payload 104 from the canister 110, which is described in more detail below. The flare of the squib 120 may also be directed into the at least one TDA 130 upon detonation, which is also described in more detail below.

[0067] Referring to FIGS.2 and 5, a removable endcap 122 may be operably engaged with the canister 110 prior to ejecting and dispensing any countermeasure payload from the countermeasure expendable 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the endcap 122 may be positioned over the front opening 112 and inside of the chamber 113 defined by the canister 110. The endcap 122 may be used to maintain and hold the associated components inside of the chamber 113 (e.g., TDAs and countermeasure payloads) prior to a dispensing operation. The endcap 122 may be removed via force exerted against said cover by at least one TDA 130 being ejected from the canister 110 during a military operation, which is described in more detail below.

[0068] Still referring to FIGS.2 and 5, the endcap 122 may be operably engaged with the canister 110 via a set of protrusions 124. The set of protrusions 124 may extend from the side walls 110C, 110D, top wall 110E, and/or bottom wall 110F of the canister and into the chamber 113 proximate to the front opening 112. The set of protrusions 124 may maintain the endcap 122 with the canister 110 prior to an ejection of at least one TDA 130 from the canister 110. In exemplary embodiments, any suitable amount of protrusions may be defined in the canister 110 to maintain the endcap 122 with the canister 110 prior to ejection of at least one TDA 130 while still being removable via a force exerted by the squib 120 during ejection of the at least one TDA 130. [0069] Referring to FIGS.3 and 5-7C, TDA 130 may include a case 132. The case 132 may include a front end 132A, an opposing rear wall 132B, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The case 132 may also include a first lateral wall or left wall 132C, an opposing parallel second lateral wall or right wall 132D, and a transverse axis defined therebetween. The case 132 may also include a top wall 132E, an opposing bottom wall 132F, and a vertical axis defined therebetween. As illustrated in FIGS. 5, the walls 132B, 132C, 132D, 132E, 132F of the case 132 may collectively define a front opening 133 at the front end 132A of the case 132. The walls 132B, 132C, 132D, 132E, 132F of the case 132 may also collectively define a chamber 134 that extends from the front opening 133 to the rear wall 132B. A cap 136 may be operably engaged with the case 132 where the cap 136 covers the front opening 133 of the case 132. The cap 136 may be operably engaged with the interior surface of the case 132 where the cap 136 is operably engaged with the interior surfaces of the left wall 132C, right wall 132D, top wall 134E, and the bottom wall 134F. The cap 136 is considered advantageous at least because the cap 136 may maintain the components of TDA 130 and the countermeasure payload 104 inside of the case 132 prior to ejection of the TDA 130 and the countermeasure payload 104.

[0070] Referring to FIGS.5-7C, the rear wall 132B may define a rear opening 137. The case 132 may also include an interior member 138 that extends from the rear wall 132B into the chamber 134 along the longitudinal axis of the case 132. The interior member 138 may have a front end 138A proximate to the front end 132A of the case 132 and an opposing rear end 138B at the rear wall 132B of the case 132. The interior member 138 may also define a front opening 139A at the front end 138A of the interior member 138, a rear opening 139B at the rear end 138B of the interior member 138, and an interior passageway 139C that extends from the rear opening 139B to the front opening 139A. Such use of the interior member 138 in described in more detail below.

[0071] Referring to FIGS.5-7C, TDA 130 may also include a fuse holder 140. The fuse holder 140 may be configured to operably engaged with the interior member 138 where the fuse holder 140 is disposed inside of the interior passageway 139C between front end 138A and the rear end 138B of the interior member 138. The fuse holder 140 may have a front end 140A proximate to the front end 138A of the interior member 138 and an opposing rear end 1406 proximate to the rear end 138B of the interior member 138. The rear end 1406 may also be operably engaged with a front end 152A of the base member 152. The fuse holder 140 may also define a front opening 141 A at the front end 140A of the fuse holder 140, a rear opening 141 B at the rear end 1406 of fuse holder 140, and an interior compartment 141C that extends from the rear opening 141 B to the front opening 141 A.

[0072] As illustrated in FIGS.5 and 6, the fuse holder 140 may be configured to house and receive a time delay fuse 142. The time delay fuse 142 may be inserted into the fuse holder 140, via the rear opening 141 B, and housed inside of the interior compartment 141C of the fuse holder 140. The fuse holder 140 may also be configured to house and receive a portion of a bursting charge 144. The bursting charge 144 may be inserted into the fuse holder 140, via the rear opening 141 B, where a portion of the bursting charge 144 is housed inside of the interior compartment 141C of the fuse holder 140 and another portion house outside of the interior compartment 141C and with the countermeasure payload 104. During assembly, the bursting charge 144 may be inserted into the fuse holder 140 before the time delay fuse 142. The configuration of the fuse holder 140 is considered advantageous at least because the time delay fuse 142 and the bursting charge 144 are in fluid communication with one another inside of the interior compartment 141 C of the fuse holder 140. Additionally, such operation of the time delay fuse 142 and the bursting charge 144 are described in more detail below.

[0073] In the illustrated embodiment, the time delay fuse 142 may be an ignitable fuse that burns for a specific amount of time. While TDA 130 uses an ignitable time delay fuse 142, a skilled artisan may select and use any suitable time delay fuse based on various considerations, including the time of delay after ejecting a TDA and a countermeasure payload, the size, shape, and configuration of the time delay fuse, and other various considerations. Additionally, the bursting charge 144 may be an ignitable bursting charge that, when ignited, causes an explosive reaction. While TDA 130 uses an ignitable bursting charge 144, a skilled artisan may select and use any suitable bursting charge based on various considerations, including the amount of force created by a bursting charge upon explosion, the size, shape, and configuration of the bursting charge, and other various considerations.

[0074] Referring to FIGS.2-7C, TDA 130 may also include a sequencing igniter device 150 (or “SID 150” hereinafter). SID 150 may include a base member 152. The base member 152 may have a front end 152A, a rear end 152B, and a longitudinal axis therebetween. The base member 152 may also have a first side or left side 152C, an opposing second side or right side 152D, and a transverse axis defined therebetween. The base member 152 may also have a top end 152E, an opposing bottom end 152F, and a vertical axis defined therebetween. Additionally, the base member 152 may define an interior wall 152A1 that is positioned proximate to the front wall 152A behind said front wall 152A.

[0075] Referring to FIG.6, the base member 152 may also define a front opening 153A at the front end 152A of the base member 152, a rear opening 153B at the rear end 152B of the base member 152, and a longitudinal passage 153C that extends from the rear opening 153B to the front opening 153A. The use of the longitudinal passage 153C is described in more detail below. The base member 152 may define a first diameter “D1 ” of the longitudinal passage 153C that extends between the rear opening 153B and a shoulder 154 that is positioned between the front end 152A and the rear end 152B inside of the longitudinal passage 153C. The base member 152 may define a second diameter “D2” of the longitudinal passage 153C that extends between the shoulder 154 and the front opening 153A of the base member 152. In the illustrated embodiment, the first diameter “D1” is greater than the second diameter “D2.” Such use of the shoulder 154 and the differences in diameter for the longitudinal passage 153C is described in more detail below.

[0076] Referring to FIGS.4-7C, the base member 152 may also define at least one vertical channel 155 that extends into the base member 152 orthogonally to the longitudinal passage 153C. As illustrated in FIGS.5-7C, the base member 152 may define a front vertical channel 155A defined proximate to the front end 152A of the base member 152. The front vertical channel 155A extends from the top end 152E of the base member 152 towards the bottom end 152F of the base member 152. The front vertical channel 155A may be in fluid communication with the longitudinal passage 153C and orthogonal to the longitudinal passage 153C relative to the longitudinal axis of the base member 152. As illustrated in FIGS.5-7C, the base member 152 may also define an opposing rear vertical channel 155B defined proximate to the rear end 152B of the base member 152. The rear vertical channel 155B extends from the bottom end 152F of the base member 152 towards the top end 152E of the base member 152. The rear vertical channel 155B may be in fluid communication with the longitudinal passage 153C and orthogonal to the longitudinal passage 153C relative to the longitudinal axis of the base member 152. In the illustrated embodiment, the front vertical channel 155A and the second vertical channel 155B are parallel to one another relative to the vertical axis of the base member 152. The front vertical channel 155A and the second vertical channel 155B may also be in fluid communication with one another via the longitudinal passage 153C. Such use of each of the front and rear vertical channels 155A, 155B is described in more detail below. [0077] Referring to FIGS4 and 5, the base member 152 may also define top recess 156A. The top recess 156A may extend downwardly from the top end 152E of the base member 152 to a first base wall 157A of the base member 152. The top recess 156A may also extend downwardly from the top end 152E of the base member 152 towards the front vertical channel 155A where the top recess 156A and the front vertical channel 155A are in fluid communication. The base member 152 may also define an opposing bottom recess 156B. The bottom recess 156B may extend upwardly from the bottom end 152F towards a second base wall 157B of the base member 152. The bottom recess 156B may also extend upwardly from the bottom end 152F of the base member 152 towards the rear vertical channel 155B where the bottom recess 156B and the rear vertical channel 155B are in fluid communication. Such use of the top recess 156A and the bottom recess 156B are described in more detail below.

[0078] Referring to FIGS.4 and 6, the base member 152 may define at least one upper cavity 158 that extends downwardly from the first base wall 157A towards the longitudinal passage 153C. The base member 152 may define a first upper cavity 158A and a second upper cavity 158B where each extends downwardly from the first base wall 157A towards the longitudinal passage 153C where the first and second upper cavities 158A, 158B are isolate from the longitudinal passage 153C. The first upper cavity 158A and the second upper cavity 158B are parallel to one another relative to the vertical axis of the base member 152. Still referring to FIG.6, the base member 152 may also define at least one lower cavity 159 that extends upwardly from the second base wall 157B towards the longitudinal passage 153C where the at least one lower cavity 159 opposes the at least one upper cavity 158 relative to the vertical axis of the base member 152. The base member 152 may define a first lower cavity 159A and a second lower cavity 159B where each extends upwardly from the second base wall 157B towards the longitudinal passage 153C where the first and second lower cavities 159A, 159B are isolate from the longitudinal passage 153C. The first lower cavity 159A and the second lower cavity 159B are parallel to one another relative to the vertical axis of the base member 152. Additionally, the first lower cavity 159A may be coaxial with the first upper cavity 158A relative to the vertical axis of the base member 152, and the second lower cavity 159B may be coaxial with the second upper cavity 158B relative to the vertical axis of the base member 152. The use and purpose of these cavities 158, 159 are described in more detail below.

[0079] Referring to FIG.4, the base member 152 may also define at least one side cavity 160 that extends laterally from one of the left side 152C or the right side 152D of the base member 152 towards the longitudinal passage 153C. The base member may define a first side cavity (not illustrated) and an opposing second side cavity 160 where the first side cavity extends from the left side 152C towards the longitudinal passage 153C and the second side cavity 160 extends from the right side 152D towards the longitudinal passage 153C. Additionally, the first side cavity may be coaxial with the second side cavity 160 relative to the transverse axis of the base member 152.

[0080] Still referring to FIG.4, at least one mount 162 may be operably engaged with the base member 152 inside the at least one side cavity 160. In the illustrated embodiment, a first mount 162A may be operably engaged with the base member inside of the first side cavity where the first mount 162A may extend outwardly from the first side cavity 160A and away from the base member 152. Additionally, an opposing second mount 162B may be operably engaged with the base member inside of the second side cavity 160 where the second mount 162B extends outwardly from the second side cavity 160 and away from the base member 152. In the illustrated embodiment, the first mount 162A and the second mount 162B may be oriented away from each other where the first mount 162A extends in a first direction relative to the transverse axis of the base member 152 and the second mount extends in an opposing second direction also relative to the transverse axis of the base member 152. The use and purpose of the at least one mount 162 is described in more detail below.

[0081] Referring to FIG.6, the base member 152 may define a front cavity 164A that extends rearwardly from the front end 152A of the base member 152 towards the rear end 152B of the base member 152. The front cavity 164A may be defined proximate to the top end 152E of the base member 152. The base member 152 may also define a rear cavity 164B that extends forwardly from the rear end 152B of the base member 152 towards the front end 152A of the base member 152. The rear cavity 164B may be defined proximate to the bottom end 152F of the base member 152. Still referring to FIG.6, a front limiter 166A may be disposed inside of the front cavity 164A and operably engaged with the base member 152 inside of the front cavity 164A. Additionally, a rear limiter 166B may be disposed inside of the rear cavity 164B and operably engaged with the base member 152 inside of the rear cavity 164B. The use of each of limiter 166A, 166B is described is more detail below.

[0082] As illustrated in FIG.4, the base member 152 may also include at least one attachment arm 168 that extends radially away from the base member 152. In the illustrated embodiment, the base member 152 may have a first attachment arm 168A that extends radially away from the left side 152C of the base member 152 proximate to the top end 152E of the base member 152. The base member 152 may also have an opposing second attachment arm 168B that extends radially away from the right side 152D of the base member proximate to the bottom end 152F of the base member 152. Such uses and purposes of these attachment arms 168A, 168B are described in more detail below.

[0083] As illustrated in FIGS.4-7B, SID 150 also includes an energy pellet 170. The energy pellet 170 may be configured to be ignitable during an ejection operation, which is described in more detail below. The energy pellet 170 may be housed inside of the longitudinal passage 153C of the base member 152. The energy pellet 170 may directly abut the shoulder 154 of the base member 152 and may be press-fitted into the base member 152. As described in more detail below, the energy pellet 170 may be configured to help ignite the time delay fuse 142 and bursting charge 144 to dispense the countermeasure payload 104. In addition, the energy pellet 170 may define a channel 171 to help ignite the energy pellet 170 and direct said energy from the energy pellet 170 to the time delay fuse 142 during an ejection operation.

[0084] SID 150 may also have at least one gate 180 operably engaged with the base member 152. In the illustrated embodiment, SID 150 may include a front gate 180A operably engaged with the base member 152 and an opposing rear gate 180B operably engaged with the base member 152. In the illustrated embodiment, the front gate 180A and the rear gate are slideably moveable relative to the base member 152 inside the front and rear vertical channels 155A, 155B. The gates 180A, 180B are substantially similar to one another and are operably engaged with base member 152 in a mirrored-image arrangement where the front gate 180A is operably engaged with the base member 152 in a first orientation and the rear gate 180B is operably engaged with the base member 152 in a reverse, second orientation. Inasmuch as the gates 180A, 180B are substantially similar, the following description will relate to the front gate 180A. It should be understood, however, that the description of the front gate 180A applies substantially equally to the rear gate 180B.

[0085] As illustrated in FIG.4, the front gate 180A includes a foot 182 and an extension

184 that extends away from the foot 182. The extension 184 also defines a slot 185. The slot

185 has a top end 185A that is proximate to the foot 182 and an opposing bottom end 185B positioned away from the foot 182. The slot 185 is sized and configured to receive a portion of the front limiter 166A once SID 150 is assembled. The structural configuration between the front limiter 166A and the slot 185 is considered advantageous at least because the front limiter 166A rides along the slot 185 between the top end 185A and the bottom end 185B of the slot 185 to limit the travel of the front gate 180A between a collapsed position and an expanded position (described below). In the illustrated embodiment, the slot 185 of the front gate 180A may be defined in the medial portion of the extension 184. In contrast, the slot 185 of the rear gate 180B may be defined along an outermost edge of the extension 184. Additionally, the extension 184 may also define an opening 186 that extends entirely through the extension 184. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 186 defined by the extension 184 of the front gate 180A defines a first diameter “F1” and the opening 186 defined by the extension 184 of the rear gate 180B defines a second diameter “F2” less than the first diameter “F1.” The opening 186 defined by the extension 184 of the rear gate 180B allows for the transference of pressure and/or flare generated from the squib 120 into the base member 152 towards the energy pellet 170. The opening 186 defined by the extension 184 of the front gate 180 allows for the transference of pressure and/or flare generated from the energy pellet 170 towards the time delay fuse 142 and the bursting charge 144. Such operation of this transference of pressure and/or flare during an ejection operation is described in more detail below.

[0086] Referring to FIGS.4 and 6, the foot 182 may define at least one hole 187 that extends upwardly into the foot 182. The at least one hole 187 may be coaxial with the at least one upper cavity 158 defined in the base member 152 when the front gate 180A is operably engaged with the base member 152 via the front vertical channel 155A and the top recess 156A of the base member 152. The rear gate 180B would also define at least one hole 187 substantially similar to the front gate 180A but in a reverse orientation. In the illustrated embodiment, the foot 182 may define a first hole 187A and a second hole 187B where each hole 187A, 187B extends into the foot 182 relative to the vertical axis of the base member 152. The first hole 187A and second hole 187B may also be parallel to one another relative to the vertical axis of the base member 152. The first hole 187A may be coaxial with the first upper cavity 158A of the base member 152 when the front gate 180A is operably engaged with the base member 152. Similarly, the second hole 187B may be coaxial with the second upper cavity 158B of the base member 152 when the front gate 180A is operably engaged with the base member 152. The rear gate 180B would also define a first hole 187A and second hole 187B substantially similar to the front gate 180A. As such, the first hole 187A of the rear gate 180B may be coaxial with the first lower cavity 159A of the base member 152 when the rear gate 180B is operably engaged with the base member 152. Similarly, the second hole 187B of the rear gate 180B may be coaxial with the second lower cavity 159B of the base member 152 when the rear gate 180B is operably engaged with the base member 152

[0087] In addition, the front gate 180A and the rear gate 180B may be spring-loaded via at least one biaser 188. The at least one biaser 188 for each of the front gate 180A and the rear gate 180B may allow each gate 180A, 180B to transition between a collapsed position (see FIGS.5-7A) to an expanded position (see FIGS.7B-7C) during an ejection operation, which is described in more detail below. In reference to the front gate 180A, a first biaser 188A may be positioned between the foot 182 of the front gate 180A and the top end 152E of the base member 152 via the first upper cavity 158 of the base member 152 and the first hole 187A of the front gate 180. Still referring to the front gate 180A, a second biaser 188B may be positioned between the foot 182 of the front gate 180A and the top end 152E of the base member 152 via the second upper cavity 158B of the base member 152 and the second hole 187B of the front gate 180. Similar to the front gate 180A, first and second biasers 188A, 188B may also be disposed between the foot 182 of the rear gate 180B and the bottom end 152F of the base member 152 via the first and second lower cavities 159A, 159B of the base member 152 and the first and second holes 187A, 187B of the rear gate 180B.

[0088] The first and second biasers 188A, 188B operably engaged with the base member 152 and the front and rear gates 180A, 180B described and illustrated herein may be a biaser that is configured to exert an opposing force when compressed (e.g., a compression spring, a coiled compression spring, etc.). As such, the biasers described and illustrated herein are under tension when the front gate 180A and the rear gate 180B are provided in the collapsed position inside of the canister 110. As the front gate 180A and the rear gate 180B exit the canister 110 upon an ejection operation, the biasers 188A, 188B for each of the front and rear gates 180A, 180B naturally expand outwardly to move the respective gate 180A, 180B from the collapsed position to the expanded position. Such transitioning of the SID 150 from the collapsed position to the expanded position is described in more detail below. In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable biaser may be used based on the structural arrangement with a base member of a SID and at least one moveable gate.

[0089] Referring to FIG.4, SID 190 may include a holder 190. The holder 190 is configured to hold and maintain the base member 152 and the front and rear gates 180A, 180B. The holder 190 is also operably engaged with the rear wall 132B of the case 132. The holder 190 does not hinder the movement of the front and rear gates 180A, 180B when either or both of the front and rear gates 180A, 180B transition from the collapsed position to the expanded position.

[0090] The holder 190 may have a front end 190A, an opposing rear end 190B, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The holder 190 may also have a first side or left side 190C, a second side or right side 190D, and a transverse axis defined therebetween. The holder 190 may also have a top end 190E, an opposing bottom end 190F, and a vertical axis defined therebetween. As illustrated in FIGS.4-6, the holder 190 may define a central compartment 191 that extends forwardly from the rear end 190B of the holder 190 towards the front end 190A of the holder 190. The central compartment 191 is configured to receive and house the base member 152 and components operably engaged with the base member 152. The holder 190 may also define a top through-hole 192A that extends downwardly from the top end 192E of the holder 190 and into the central compartment 191. The top through- hole 192A is configured to receive and house the front gate 180A when the front gate 180A is provided in either the collapsed position or the expanded position. The holder 190 may also define a bottom through-hole 192B that extends upwardly from the bottom end 192F of the holder 190 into the central compartment 191 . The bottom through-hole 192B is configured to receive and house the rear gate 180B when the rear gate 180B is provided in either the collapsed position or the expanded position. In addition, the top through-hole 192A and the bottom through-hole 192B are coaxial with one another relative to the vertical axis of the holder 190.

[0091] Referring to FIG.4, the holder 190 may also define at least one side aperture 193 at one of the left end 190C and the right end 190D of the holder 190. The at least one aperture 193 is configured to receive the at least one mount 162 to operably engage the base member 152 with the holder 190. In the illustrated embodiment, the holder 190 may define a first side aperture 193A that extends laterally from the left side 192C into the central compartment 191. The first side aperture 193A is configured to receive the first mount 162A to operably engage the base member 152 with the holder 190. The holder 190 may also define a second side aperture 193B that extends laterally from the right side 192D into the central compartment 191 . The second side aperture 193B is configured to receive the second mount 162B to operably engage the base member 152 with the holder 190. The first side aperture 193A may be opposite to the second side aperture 193B on the holder and may be coaxial with one another relative to the transverse axis of the holder 190. [0092] Referring to FIG.6, the holder 190 may have a front recess 194 that extends from the front end 190A of the holder 190 to a front wall 195. The front recess 194 may be configured to receive and house the rear wall 132B of the case 132 where the case 132 is operably engaged inside of the holder 190 when TDA 130 is assembled inside of the canister 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the cross-section of the case 132 is even and/or flush with the cross-section of the holder 190 when the case 132 and the holder 190 are assembled with one another. Additionally, the holder 190 defines a front aperture 195A that extends from the front end 190A to the front wall 195 where the front aperture 195A is configured to receive and house the case 132, the fuse holder 140, and the time delay fuse 142. The front wall 195 also operably engages with the medial wall 152A1 of the base member 152 when TDA 130 is fully assembled (see FIG.6).

[0093] Referring to FIG.4, the holder 190 may also include at least one receiving slot 196 that extends into the holder 190 from the rear end 190B. The at least one receiving slot 196 may be sized and configured to receive and house the at least one attachment arm 168 of the base member 152 where the holder 190 operably engages with the at least one attachment arm 168 inside the at least one receiving slot 196. In the illustrated embodiment, the holder 190 may include a first receiving slot 196A that extends into the holder 190 from the rear end 190B proximate to the left side 190C of the holder 190. The first receiving slot 196A may be sized and configured to receive and house the first attachment arm 168A of the base member 152 where the holder 190 operably engages with the first attachment arm 168A inside the first receiving slot 196A. Additionally, the holder 190 may include an opposing second receiving slot 196B that extends into the holder 190 from the rear end 190B proximate to the right side 190D of the holder 190. The second receiving slot 196B may be sized and configured to receive and house the second attachment arm 168B of the base member 152 where the holder 190 operably engages with the second attachment arm 168B inside the second receiving slot 196B. The structural configuration between the first and second attachment arms 168A, 168B and the first and second receiving slots 196A, 196B is considered advantageous at least because the structural configurations prevents the base member 152 from rotating inside of the holder 190 during use.

[0094] Referring to FIG.4, a push plate 200 may be provided between the SID 150 and the charge block 114 inside of the canister 110. As shown in FIG.6, the push plate 200 may provide a main seal 201 disposed circumferentially about the outermost edge of the push plate 200. The push plate 200 may include a wall 202 that has a front surface 202A and a rear surface 202B. The push plate 200 may also include a seal 204 that is disposed about the peripheral edge of the wall 202. The seal 204 may extend away from the rear surface 202B of the wall 202 and may be positioned at an angle relative to the wall 202. When positioned inside of the canister 110, the seal 204 of the push plate 200 may be contacting or substantially close to an interior surface of the canister 110 inside of the chamber 113 (see FIG.6). The positioning of the seal 204 relative to the interior surface of the canister 110 inside of the chamber 113 maintains the pressure and energy generated by the squib 120 from escaping past the push plate 200 and ensures suitable pressure is contained behind the TDA 130 to expel said TDA 130 from the canister 110. In other words, the seal 204 prevents “blow by” of the pressure and energy created by the squib 120.

[0095] Additionally, the wall 202 may define a through-hole 205 that extends from the front surface 202A to the rear surface 202B such that the front surface 202A and the rear surface 202B are in fluid communication with each other via the through-hole 205. The through-hole 205 allows for the transference of pressure and/or flare from the squib 120 into SID 150 to ignite the energy pellet 170, which is described in more detail below. The wall 202 may also define a set of hollow protrusions 206 that extend outwardly from the rear surface 202B of the wall 202.

[0096] The push plate 200 may also include a secondary wall 208 that is operably engaged with the wall 202. The secondary wall 208 includes a set of projections 209A that extends outwardly from the secondary wall 208 towards the wall 202. The set of projections 209A operably engage with the wall 202 via the set of hollow protrusions 206. Additionally, the secondary wall 208 may define a through-hole 209B that extends entire through the secondary wall 208 substantially similar to the through-hole 205 defined in the wall 202. The through-hole 209B allows for the transference of pressure and/or flare from the squib 120 into SID 150 to ignite the energy pellet 170, which is described in more detail below.

[0097] The push plate 200 may be made of any suitable material for containing and directing the energy and pressure created by the squib 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the wall 202 is made of a first material. The first material of the wall 202 is a resilient material, more particularly an elastomeric material such as silicone or other suitable elastomers of the like. In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable resilient material may be used to create a wall for a push plate described and illustrated herein. Additionally, the secondary plate 208 is made of a second material different than the first material of the wall 202. Here, the secondary plate 208 is made of a rigid material, more particularly a fiber reinforced polymer or other suitable types of plastics. In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable rigid material may be used to create a secondary wall for a push plate described and illustrated herein.

[0098] While the wall 202 and the secondary plate 208 of the push plate 200 are individual, separate components, a wall and a secondary plate of a push plate may have any suitable structural configuration. In one exemplary embodiment, a wall and a secondary plate may be a single, unitary component that makes up a push plate.

[0099] Having now described the components and assemblies of the countermeasure payload 100, the method of use and/or operation of the countermeasure payload 100 is described below.

[0100] Prior to a military operation, a squib, such as squib 120 described above, may be operably engaged with the charge block 114 inside of receptacle 1 16 for each countermeasure payload 100 loaded into the magazine of the CMDS 6 of platform 1. During operation of the electrical configuration, the sequencer 10 of CMDS 6 is able to send signals and/or pulses to the countermeasure expendable 100, via a firing pin operably engaged with a squib of each countermeasure expendable 100, to eject and dispense at least one TDA 130.

[0101] During a military operation, the sequencer 10 may send a signal to the squib 120 via the respective firing pin of the plurality of firing pins operably engaged with said squib 120. As the charge is received by the squib 120, the squib 120 detonates and discharges pressure and flare through the receptacle 1 16 and towards the burst disk 118. The pressure and flare created by the squib is denoted by arrows labeled “E1 ” in FIG.7A. Once the pressure meets the burst disk 1 18, burst disk 118 disengages from the charge block 1 14 due to the pressure being greater than the engagement between the burst disk 118 and the charge block 114 (see FIG.7A). The burst disk 1 18 and the pressure created by the squib 120 may by exerted against the push plate 200 to move the at least one TDA 130 from the canister 110 and into the exterior environment surrounding the platform 1. Such linear movement of the burst disk 1 18 is denoted by arrows label “LM1” in FIG.7A. Additionally, the flare created by the detonation of the squib 120 may enter into the push plate 200, via the through-holes 205, 209B, and transition towards the SID 150.

[0102] As illustrated in FIG.7A, SID 150 is provided in the first configuration. In the first configuration, the entire extension 184 of the front gate 180A is provided in the front vertical channel 155A of the base member 152. Similarly, the entire extension 184 of the rear gate 180B is provided in rear vertical channel 155B of the base member 152 when SID 150 is provided in the first configuration. In the first configuration, the opening 186 defined by the front gate 180A is offset from the front opening 153A defined by the base member 152. Still in the first configuration, the opening 186 defined by the rear gate 180B is aligned with the rear opening 153B defined by the base member 152 where the opening 186 defined by the rear gate 180B is coaxial with the rear opening 153B defined by the base member 152. The first configuration of SID 150 allows the flare of the squib 120 to ignite the energy pellet 170 inside of the base member 152 in isolation from the time delay fuse 142 and the bursting charge 144. The first configuration of SID 150 is considered advantageous at least because SID 150 provides a hang fire protection barrier between the ignited energy pellet 170 and the time delay fuse 142 when TDA 130 is provided inside of the canister 110. In other words, the energy pellet 170 is prevented from igniting the time delay fuse 142 and the bursting charge 144 until the at least one TDA 130 is ejected from the canister 110 and away from the platform 1 to prevent against an incidental hang fire. Once the energy pellet 170 is ignited, the at least one TDA 130 is already transitioning away from the charge block 114 and towards the endcap 122 of the canister 110.

[0103] Once the front end 132A of the at least one TDA 130 reaches the endcap 122, the at least one TDA 130 exerts a force against the endcap 122 via the pressure exerted by the squib 120 to disengage the endcap 122 from the canister 110. As such, the force exerted by the at least one TDA 130 (created by the squib 120) is greater than the engagement force between the endcap 122 and the canister 110. The endcap 122 then disengages from the canister 110 and moves away from the chamber 113 of the canister 110 and into the exterior environment surrounding the platform 1. With this disengagement, the at least one TDA 130 is in fluid communication with the exterior environment surrounding the platform 1 and moves into the exterior environment.

[0104] As the at least one TDA 130 exits from the chamber 113 of the canister 110, SID 150 may transition from the first configuration (see FIG.7A) to the second configuration (see FIG.7B). In the second configuration, the biaser 188A of the front gate 180A may transition from the collapsed position to the expanded position once the biasers 188A, 188B and the front gate 180A are free from contacting the interior surface of the top wall 110E of the canister 110. Similarly, the biasers 188A, 188B of the rear gate 180B may transition from the collapsed position to the expanded position once the biasers 188A, 188B and the rear gate 180B are free from contacting the interior surface of the bottom wall 110F of the canister 110. Such linear movement of the front and rear gates 180A, 180B via the biasers 188A, 188B is denoted by arrows labeled “LM2” in FIG.7B.

[0105] In the second configuration, a portion of the extension 184 of each gate 180A, 180B is disposed outside of each respective vertical channel 155A, 155B defined by the base member 152. As illustrated in FIG.7B, the opening 186 defined by the front gate 180A is aligned with the front opening 153A defined by the base member 152 where the opening 186 defined by the front gate 180A is coaxial with the front opening 153A defined by the base member 152 in the second configuration. Still in the second configuration, the opening 186 defined by the rear gate 180B is offset from the rear opening 153B defined by the base member 152. The second configuration of SID 150 allows the ignited energy pellet 170 to ignite the time delay fuse 142 and the bursting charge 144 for dispensing the countermeasure payload 104 at a predetermined time delay. The pressure and flare created by the energy pellet 170 is denoted by arrows labeled “E2” in FIG.7B. The second configuration of SID 150 is considered advantageous at least because SID 150 directs the energy of the ignited energy pellet 170 from the longitudinal passage 153C of the base member 152 towards the time delay fuse 142. Since the rear opening 153B of the base member 152 is blocked via the extension 184 of the rear gate 180B, the energy of the ignited energy pellet 170 is directed to the front opening 153A of the base member 152 and towards the time delay fuse 142.

[0106] Once the at least one TDA 130 is outside of the canister 110, the ignited energy pellet 170 is able to ignite the time delay fuse 142 (see FIG.7B). The ignition of the time delay fuse 142 via the energy pellet is denoted by an arrow labeled “E3” in FIG.7C. Additionally, the case 132 falls away from the SID 150 once TDA 130 is outside of the canister 110. The linear movement of the case 132 away from the SID 150 is denoted by arrows labeled “LM3.” As described above, the time delay fuse 142 may remain ignited and burn for a predetermined time interval before igniting the bursting charge 144 based on various considerations. During this burning interval, the at least one TDA 130 is falling through the surrounding atmosphere away from the platform 1. As such, the burning interval of the time delay fuse 142 may be determined based on a desired distance at which the at least one TDA 130 may dispense away from the platform 1 during a military operation. Additionally, the case 132 of the at least one TDA 130 disengages from the SID 150 upon free fall outside of the platform 1.

[0107] Once the time delay fuse 142 reaches the end of its length, the time delay fuse 142 then ignites the bursting charge 144 causing the bursting charge to detonate inside of the case 132. The pressure caused from the detonation of the bursting charge 144 is exerted inside of the chamber 134 of the case 132, including the cap 136. The pressure caused by the bursting charge 144 exerts a force against countermeasure payload 104 causing the cap 136 to disengage the cap 136 from the case 132 of the at least one TBA 130. As such, the force exerted by the bursting charge 144 on the countermeasure payload 104 is greater than the engagement between the cap 136 and the case 132. The cap 136 disengages from the case 132 and moves away from the chamber 134 of the case 132 and into the exterior environment surrounding the platform 1. With this disengagement, the chamber 134 of the case 132 is in fluid communication with the exterior environment surrounding the platform 1 and moves into the exterior environment. As the cap 136 is removed, the volume of countermeasure payload 104 is dispensed from the case 132 at a distance away from the platform. The countermeasure payload 104 is then used to deter an enemy threat towards the volume of the countermeasure payload 104 and away from the platform 1 (see FIG.1).

[0108] As illustrated in FIGS.2-7C, a single TDA 130 is ejected and dispensed from a single canister 110 of the CMDS 6 of the platform 1 to deter and direct an enemy threat away from the platform 1 . As described in more detail below, any suitable number of TDA may be ejected and dispensed during a military operation as described herein. Examples of suitable numbers of TDA that may be ejected and dispensed from a single canister of a CMDS of a platform include one, at least one, plurality, two, three, four, and any other suitable numbers of TDA that may be ejected and dispensed from a single canister of a CMDS of a platform.

[0109] FIGS.8-13 illustrate an alternative countermeasure expendable 100’. The countermeasure expendable 100’ is similar to the countermeasure expendable 100 described above and illustrated in FIGS.2-7C, except as detailed below. Countermeasure expendable 100’ includes a canister 110’ loaded with a plurality of countermeasure payload/materials 104’ with a plurality of TDA 130’.

[0110] As illustrated in FIG.8, the countermeasure expendable 100’ includes a plurality of TDA 130’. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of TDA 130’ may include four TDAs 130’ where each TDA 130’ is loaded with a volume of countermeasure payload/material 104’. In one exemplary embodiment, the plurality of TDA 130’ may include three TDA 130’ where each TDA 130’ is loaded with a volume of countermeasure payload/material 104’. In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable amount of TDA may be included in a countermeasure expendable based on various considerations, include the size, shape, and configuration of a canister, the size of the magazine of a CMDS on a platform, and other considerations. [0111] The countermeasure expendable 100’ may include a plurality of a fuse holders 140’ housing a time delay fuse from a plurality of time delay fuses 142’ operably engaged with a plurality of bursting charges 144’ (similar to the delay fuse 142 and the bursting charge 144 described previously). Additionally, a plurality of adhesive materials may be used to operably engage a time delay fuse from the plurality of time delay fuses 142’ with a respective case from a plurality of case 132’ (similar to the case 132 described above). Any suitable adhesive material may be used to operably engage a time delay fuse with a respective case.

[0112] In addition, the countermeasure expendable 100’ may include an alternative SID 150’ different than that of SID 150 of TDA 130 described above. As illustrated in FIGS.8- 13, SID 150’ may include a base member 152’. The base member 152’ may have a front end 152A’, a rear end 152B’, and a longitudinal axis therebetween. The base member 152’ may also have a first side or left side 152C’, an opposing second side or right side 152D’, and a transverse axis defined therebetween. The base member 152’ may also have a top end 152E’, an opposing bottom end 152F’, and a vertical axis defined therebetween.

[0113] Referring to FIGS.9-12, the base member 152’ may also define a plurality of front openings 153A’ at the front end 152A’ of the base member 152’, a plurality of rear openings 153B’ at the rear end 152B’ of the base member 152’, and a plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’ where each longitudinal passage of the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’ extends from a rear opening of the plurality of rear openings 153B’ to a front opening of the plurality of front openings 153A’. The use of the longitudinal passage 153C is described in more detail below. As illustrated in FIGS.9-10, the base member 152’ may define four longitudinal passages 153C’ where each longitudinal passages 153C’ is accessible via a front opening 153A’ and a rear opening 153B’ when the countermeasure expendable 100’ has three TDA 130’. In other exemplary embodiments, a base member may define any suitable number of front openings, rear opening, and longitudinal passages for the number of countermeasure payloads provided in a countermeasure expendable.

[0114] Referring to FIGS.9-10, the base member 152’ may define a third diameter “D3” for each longitudinal passage of the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’. The third diameter “D3”is continuous between each rear opening 153B’ and a respective shoulder 154’ that is positioned between the front end 152A’ and the rear end 152B’ inside each longitudinal passage of the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’. The base member 152’ may define a fourth diameter “D4” for each longitudinal passage of the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’. The fourth diameter “D4” is continuous between a respective shoulder 154’ and each front opening 153A’ of the base member 152’. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth diameter “D4” is greater than the third diameter “D3.” The use of a shoulder 154’ being positioned inside each longitudinal passage of the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’ and the differences in diameter for each longitudinal passage 153C’ is described in more detail below.

[0115] Referring to FIGS.9-12, the base member 152’ may also define at least one vertical channel 155’ that extends into the base member 152’ orthogonally to the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’. As illustrated in FIG.10, the base member 152’ may define a first front vertical channel 155A’ defined proximate to the left side 152C’ of the base member 152’. The first front vertical channel 155A’ extends from the top end 152E’ of the base member 152’ towards the bottom end 152F of the base member 152’. The first front vertical channel 155A’ may be in fluid communication with the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’ and orthogonal to the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’. Still referring to FIG.10, the first front vertical channel 155A’ may be in fluid communication with first and second longitudinal passages 153C1’, 153C2’ of the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’. The first front vertical channel 155A’ may also be orthogonal to the first and second longitudinal passages 153C1’, 153C2’ of the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’ relative to the longitudinal axis of the base member 152’.

[0116] The base member 152’ may also define a second front vertical channel 155B’ defined proximate to the right side 152D’ of the base member 152’. The second front vertical channel 155B’ extends from the top end 152E’ of the base member 152’ towards the bottom end 152F’ of the base member 152’. As illustrated in FIG.10, the second front vertical channel 155B’ is parallel with the first front vertical channel 155A’ relative to the vertical axis of the base member 152’. The second front vertical channel 155B’ may be in fluid communication with the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’ and orthogonal to the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’. Still referring to FIG.10, the second front vertical channel 155B’ may be in fluid communication with third and fourth longitudinal passages 153C3’, 154C4’ of the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’ and orthogonal to the third and fourth longitudinal passages 153C3’, 154C4’ of the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’ relative to the longitudinal axis of the base member 152’ when the base member 152’ defines fourth longitudinal passages 153C’.

[0117] Referring to FIG.10, the base member 152’ may also define top recess 156’. The top recess 156’ may extend downwardly from the top end 152E’ of the base member 152’ to a first base wall 157’ of the base member 152’. The top recess 156’ may also extend downwardly from the top end 152E’ of the base member 152’ parallel with the first and second front vertical channels 155A’, 155B’ where the top recess 156’ and the first and second front vertical channels 155A’, 155B’ are in fluid communication. Such use of the top recess 156A’ is described in more detail below. Still referring to FIG.10, the base member 152’ may define at least one upper cavity 158’ that extends downwardly from the first base wall 157A’ towards the bottom end 152F’ of the base member 152’. The upper cavity 158’ may be separate from the first and second front vertical channels 155A’, 155B’ and disposed rearwardly of the first and second front vertical channels 155A’, 155B’. The use and purpose of the upper cavity 158’ is described in more detail below.

[0118] The base member 152’ may define at least one front cavity 164’. As illustrated in FIG.10, the base member 152’ may define a first front cavity 164A’ that extends rearwardly from the front end 152A’ of the base member 152’ towards the rear end 152B’ of the base member 152’. The first front cavity 164A’ may be defined proximate to the top end 152E’ of the base member 152’ and proximate to the left side 152C’ of the base member 152’. Still referring to FIG.10, the base member 152’ may also define a second front cavity 164B’ that extends rearwardly from the front end 152A’ of the base member 152’ towards the rear end 152B’ of the base member 152’. The second front cavity 164B’ may be defined proximate to the top end 152E’ of the base member 152’ and proximate to the right side 152D’ of the base member 152’. The first front cavity 164A’ and the second front cavity 164B’ may extend in a parallel direction with one another relative to the longitudinal axis of the base member 152’. In one exemplary embodiment, a first front cavity may be parallel with a second front cavity relative to a transverse axis of a base member. In another exemplary embodiment, a first front cavity may be offset from a second front cavity relative to a transverse axis of a base member.

[0119] In addition, at least one limiter 166’ may be operably engaged with the base member 152’ inside of the at least one front cavity 164’. As illustrated in FIGS.9-11 B, a first limiter 166A’ may be disposed inside of the first front cavity 164A’ and operably engaged with the base member 152’ inside of the first front cavity 164A’. A second limiter 166B’ may be disposed inside of the second front cavity 164B’ and operably engaged with the base member 152’ inside of the second front cavity 164B’. The use of each limiter 166A’, 166B’ is described is more detail below. [0120] As illustrated in FIG.10, the base member 152’ may also define a plurality of front recesses 167’. The plurality of front recesses 167’ may extend into the base member 152 from the front end 152A’ of the base member 152’ to a base wall 168’ of the base member 152’. The base wall 168’ may separates the front recesses 167’ from the first and second front vertical channels 155A’, 155B’. The plurality of front recesses 167’ defined by the base member 152’ is considered advantageous at least because each front recesses of the plurality of front recesses 167’ may receive and house a portion of a case from the plurality of cases 132’ in which the plurality of cases 132’ operably engage with the base member 152’. As illustrated in FIG.8, the plurality of cases 132’ are flush and/or even with the base member 152’ once assembled.

[0121] As illustrated in FIGS.9-11 B, a plurality of energy pellets 170’ may be operably engaged with SID 150’. Each energy pellet of the plurality of energy pellets 170’ may be configured to be ignitable during an ejection operation, which is described in more detail below. An energy pellet of the plurality of energy pellets 170’ may be housed inside of a longitudinal passage of the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’ of the base member 152’. Each energy pellet of the plurality of energy pellets 170’ may be directly abutting a shoulder 154’ inside of a longitudinal passage of the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’ of the base member 152’ and may be press-fitted into the base member 152’. As described in more detail below, each energy pellet of the plurality of energy pellets 170’ may be configured to assist in igniting a respective time delay fuse 142’ and a respective bursting charge 144’ for dispensing a respective countermeasure payload 104’. Each energy pellet of the plurality of energy pellets 170’ may define a channel 17T to help ignite the energy pellet 170 and direct said energy from the energy pellet 170’ to the respective time delay fuse 142’.

[0122] SID 150’ may also have at least one gate 180’ operably engaged with the base member 152’. In the illustrated embodiment, SID 150’ may include a front gate 180’ operably engaged with the base member 152’. The front gate 180A’ may include a foot 182’ and at least one extension 184’ that extends away from the foot 182. In the illustrated embodiment, the front gate 180A’ may include a first extension 184A’ and a second extension 184B’ that extend from the foot 182’. The first extension 184A’ and the second extension 184B’ are parallel to one another relative to the foot 182’.

[0123] Each extension 184A’, 184B’ defines a slot 185’. Each slot 185’ of the extensions 184A’, 184B’ has a top end 185A’ that is proximate to the foot 182’ and an opposing bottom end 185B’ positioned away from the foot 182’. The slot 185’ is sized and configured to receive a portion of one of the first and second limiters 166A’, 166B’. In the illustrated embodiment, the slot 185’ of the first extension 184A’ is configured to receive a portion of the first limiter 166A’, and the slot 185’ of the second extension 184B’ is configured to receive a portion of the second limiter 166B’. In the illustrated embodiment, the slot 185’ defined in the first extension 184A’ and the second extension 184B’ may be defined along an outermost edge of each extension 184A’, 184B’ between a top end of each extension 184A’, 184B’ and a bottom end of each extension 184A’, 184B’. The structural configuration between the first limiter 166A’ and the slot 185’ of the first extension 184A’ is considered advantageous at least because the first limiter 166A’ rides along the slot 185’ between the top end 185A’ and the bottom end 185B’ of the slot 185’ to limit the travel of the front gate 180A’. Similarly, the structural configuration between the second limiter 166B’ and the slot 185’ of the second extension 184B’ is considered advantageous at least because the second limiter 166B’ rides along the slot 185’ between the top end 185A’ and the bottom end 185B’ of the slot 185’ to limit the travel of the front gate 180A’.

[0124] Referring to FIGS.9 and 10, each extension 184A’, 184B’ may also define an opening 186’ that extends entirely through each extension 184A’, 184B’. The openings 186’ defined by the extensions 184A’, 184B’ of the front gate 180’ allow for the transference of pressure and/or flare generated from each energy pellet of the plurality of energy pellets 170’ to each respective time delay fuse 142’ and the bursting charge 144’. Such operation of this transference of pressure and/or flare is described in more detail below.

[0125] Referring to FIG.9, the foot 182’ may define at least one biaser-engaging surface 183’. The at least one biaser-engaging surface 183’ of the foot 182’ may be coaxial with the upper cavity 158’ defined in the base member 152’ when the front gate 180’ is operably engaged with the base member 152’ via the first and second front vertical channel 155A’, 155B’ and the top recess 156’ of the base member 152’.

[0126] In addition, the front gate 180’ may be spring-loaded via at least one biaser 188’. The at least one biaser 188’ for the front gate 180’ may allow the front gate 180’ to transition between a collapsed position to an expanded position during an ejection operation, which is described in more detail below. The biaser 188’ may be positioned between the foot 182’ of the front gate 180’ and the top end 152E’ of the base member 152’ via the upper cavity 158’ of the base member 152’ and the at least one biaser-engaging surface 183’defined in the front gate 180 (if provided). [0127] The biaser 188’ operably engaged with the base member 152’ and the front gate 180’ that is described and illustrated herein may be a biaser that is configured to exert an opposing force when compressed (e.g., a compression spring, a coiled compression spring, etc.). As such, the biasers described and illustrated herein are under tension when the front gate 180’ is provided in the collapsed position inside of the canister 110’. As the front gate 180’ exit the canister 110’ upon an ejection operation, the biaser 188’ naturally expands outwardly to move the front gate 180’ from the collapsed position to the expanded position. Such transitioning of the SID 150’ from the collapsed position to the expanded position is described in more detail below. In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable biaser may be used based on the structural arrangement with a base member of a SID and at least one moveable gate.

[0128] Referring to FIG.12, a push plate 200’ may be provided between the SID 150’ and the charge block 114’ inside of the canister 110’. The push plate 200’ is substantially similar to the push plate 200 described above and illustrated in FIGS.2-7C, except as detailed below.

[0129] The push plate 200’ may include a wall 202’ that has a front surface 202A’ and a rear surface 202B’. The push plate 200’ may also include a seal 204’ that is disposed about peripheral edge of the wall 202’. The seal 204’ may extend away from the rear surface 202B’ of the wall 202’ and may be positioned at an angle relative to the wall 202’. When positioned inside of the canister 110’, the seal 204’ of the push plate 200’ may be contacting or substantially close to an interior surface of the canister 110’ inside of the chamber 113’ (see FIG.12). The positioning of the seal 204 relative to the interior surface of the canister 110’ inside of the chamber 113’ is described in more detail below. Additionally, the wall 202’ may define a plurality of through-holes 205’ that extends from the front surface 202A’ to the rear surface 202B’ such that the front surface 202A’ and the rear surface 202B’ are in fluid communication with each other via the plurality of through-holes 205’. The plurality of through- holes 205’ allows for the transference of pressure and/or flare from the squib 120’ into SID 150’ to ignite the plurality of energy pellets 170’, which is described in more detail below. The wall 202’ may also define a set of hollow protrusions 206’ that extend outwardly from the rear surface 202B’ of the wall 202’.

[0130] The push plate 200’ may also include a secondary wall 208’ that is operably engaged with the wall 202’. The secondary wall 208’ includes a set of projections 209A’ that extends outwardly from the secondary wall 208’ towards the wall 202’. The set of projections 209A’ operably engages with the wall 202’ via the set of hollow protrusions 206’. Additionally, the secondary wall 208’ may define a plurality of through-holes 209B’ that extends entire through the secondary wall 208’ substantially similar to the plurality of through-holes 205’ defined in the wall 202’. The plurality of through-holes 209B’ is aligned with the plurality of through-holes 205’ where each through-hole of the plurality of through-holes 209B’ is coaxial with a respective through-hole of the plurality of through-holes 205’. The plurality of through- holes 209B’ also allows for the transference of pressure and/or flare from the squib 120’ into SID 150’ to ignite the plurality of energy pellets 170’, which is described in more detail below.

[0131] As described above, the plurality of time delay fuses 142’ may remain ignite and burn for a predetermined time interval before igniting the bursting charge 144’ based on various considerations. In one example, each time delay fuse of a plurality of time delay fuses may burn for the same predetermined time interval during a military operation (see FIG.12). In another other exemplary embodiment, at least one-time delay fuse of a plurality of time delay fuses may burn at a different predetermined time interval than another time delay fuse of the plurality of time delay fuses during a military operation (see FIG.12A). In FIG.12A, a first fuse 142A’ may define a first length “LF1” that is greater than a second length “LF2” of a second fuse 142B’ in which the first fuse 142A’ may burn at a greater dwell time than the second fuse 142B’. Such difference in dwell time may cause different time delays for ejection countermeasure material during a military operation. In yet another other exemplary embodiment, each time delay fuse of a plurality of time delay fuses may burn at different predetermined time intervals during a military operation. In this example, the plurality of time delay fuses may have a first time delay fuse with a first burning time interval, a second time delay fuse with a second burning time interval that is greater than the first burning time interval, and a third time delay fuse with a third burning time interval that is greater than the first and second burning time intervals. In another example, the plurality of time delay fuses may have a first time delay fuse with a first burning time interval, a second time delay fuse with a second burning time interval that is greater than the first burning time interval, a third time delay fuse with a third burning time interval that is greater than the first and second burning time intervals, and a fourth time delay fuse with a fourth burning time interval that is greater than the first, second, and third burning time intervals. Such difference in burning time intervals for the plurality of time delay fuses causes the plurality of bursting charge 144’ to ignite at different times of dispensing countermeasure payload 104’ at different time intervals and at different distances away from the platform 1 . [0132] Having now described the components and assemblies of the countermeasure payload 100’, the method of use and/or operation of the countermeasure payload 100’ is described below. The operation of the countermeasure payload 100’ is substantially similar to the operation of the countermeasure payload 100 described above, except as detailed below. As such, the detonation of the squib, via the sequencer 10, and the rupturing of the bursting charge is substantially similar to the operation described above.

[0133] As illustrated in FIG.13, SID 150’ is provided in the first configuration after the squib 120 detonated. In the first configuration, the entire extension 184’ of the front gate 180A’ is provided in the front vertical channel 155A’ of the base member 152’. In the first configuration, the plurality of opening 186’ defined by the front gate 180A’ is offset from the plurality of front openings 153A’ defined by the base member 152’. The first configuration of SID 150’ allows the flare of the squib to ignite the plurality of energy pellets 170’ inside of the base member 152’ in isolation from the plurality of time delay fuses 142’ and the plurality of bursting charges 144’. The first configuration of SID 150’ is considered advantageous at least because SID 150’ provides a hang fire protection barrier between the ignited plurality of energy pellets 170’ and the plurality of time delay fuses 142’. In other words, the plurality of energy pellets 170’ is prevented from igniting the plurality of time delay fuses 142’ and the plurality of bursting charges 144’ until the plurality of TDAs 130’ is ejected from the canister 110’ and away from the platform 1 to prevent against an incidental hang fire. Once the plurality of energy pellets 170’ is ignited, the plurality of TDAs 130’ is already transitioning away from the charge block 114’ and towards the endcap 122’ of the canister 110’.

[0134] Once the front end 132A’ of each TDA of the plurality of TDAs 130’ reaches the endcap 122’, the plurality of TDAs 130’ exerts a force against the endcap 122’ via the pressure exerted by the squib 120’ to disengage the endcap 122’ from the canister 110’. As such, the force exerted by the plurality of TDA 130’ (created by the squib 120’) is greater than the engagement between the endcap 122’ and the canister 110’. The endcap 122’ disengages from the canister 110’ and moves away from the chamber 113’ of the canister 110’ and into the exterior environment surrounding the platform 1. With this disengagement, the plurality of TDAs 130’ is in fluid communication with the exterior environment surrounding the platform 1 and moves into the exterior environment.

[0135] As the plurality of TDAs 130’ exits from the chamber 113’ of the canister 110’, SID 150’ may transition from the first configuration (see FIGS.11A and 12) to the second configuration (see FIG.11 B and 13). In the second configuration, the at least one biaser 188’ of the front gate 180A’ may transition from the collapsed position (See FIG.11 A) to the expanded position (see FIG.11 B) once the at least one biaser 188’ and the front gate 180A’ are free from contacting the interior surface of the top wall 110E’ of the canister 110’. The linear movement of the front gate 180’ via the biaser 188’ is denoted by an arrow labeled “LM4” in FIG.13. In the second configuration, a portion of the first and second extensions 184A’, 184B’ of the front gate 180A’ is disposed outside of the first and second front vertical channels 155A’, 155B’ defined by the base member 152’. In the second configuration, the plurality of openings 186’ defined by the front gate 180A’ is aligned with the plurality of front openings 153A’ defined by the base member 152’ where each opening of the plurality of openings 186’ defined by the front gate 180A’ is coaxial with a respective front opening of the plurality of front openings 153A’ defined by the base member 152’. Such coaxial alignment is created by the first and second limiters 166A’, 166B’ limiting the front gate 180A to a certain height outside of the baes member 152. As such, the first and second limiters 166A, 166B’ stop the front gate 180’ at the second ends 185B’ of the slots 185’ defined in each of first and second extensions 184A,’ 184B’. The second configuration of SID 150’ is considered advantageous at least because SID 150’ directs the energy of the plurality of ignited energy pellets 170’ from the plurality of longitudinal passages 153C’ of the base member 152’ towards the plurality of time delay fuses 142’.

[0136] Once the plurality of TDAs 130’ is outside of the canister 110’, the plurality of ignited energy pellets 170’ is able to ignite the plurality of time delay fuses 142’ (see FIG.13). The transference of energy and flare from the plurality of ignited energy pellets 170’ to the plurality of time delay fuses 142’ is denoted by arrows labeled “E4” in FIG.13. As described above, the plurality of time delay fuses 142’ may remain ignite and burn for a predetermined time interval before igniting the bursting charge 144 based on various considerations. In one example, each time delay fuse of a plurality of time delay fuses may burn for the same predetermined time interval during a military operation. In another other exemplary embodiment, at least one-time delay fuse of a plurality of time delay fuses may burn at a different predetermined time interval than another time delay fuse of the plurality of time delay fuses during a military operation. In yet another other exemplary embodiment, each time delay fuse of a plurality of time delay fuses may burn at different predetermined time intervals during a military operation. During these burning intervals, the plurality of TDAs 130’ is falling through the surrounding atmosphere away from the platform 1 . As such, the burning intervals of the plurality of time delay fuses 142’ may be determined based on a desired distance at which each TDA of the plurality of TDAs 130’ may dispense countermeasure payload 104’ away from the platform 1 during a military operation.

[0137] Once each time delay fuse 142’ of the plurality of time delay fuses 142’ reaches the end of its length, each time delay fuse of the plurality of time delay fuses 142’ then ignites a respective bursting charge of the plurality of bursting charges 144’ causing the respective bursting charge 144’ to detonate inside of the case 132’ of each TDA of the plurality of TDAs 130’. The pressure caused from the detonation of each bursting charge of the plurality of bursting charge 144’ is exerted inside of the chamber 134’ of the cases 132’ of each TDA 130’The pressure caused by each bursting charge of the plurality of bursting charges 144’ exerts a force against countermeasure payload 104 inside each case 132’ causing the case 132’ to rupture. With this event, the chamber 134’ of each case 132’ of the plurality of TDA 130’ is in fluid communication with the exterior environment surrounding the platform 1 and moves into the exterior environment. As each case 132’ ruptures, the volume of countermeasure payload 104’ is dispensed from the respective case 132’ at a distance away from the platform. The countermeasure payload 104’ is then used to deter an enemy threat towards the volume of the countermeasure payload 104’ and away from the platform 1 (see FIG.1).

[0138] As illustrated in FIGS.8 and 12-13, a single TDA 130’ is ejected and dispensed from a single canister 110’ of a CM DS 6 of the platform 1 to deter and direct an enemy threat away from the platform 1. As described in more detail below, any suitable number of TDA may be ejected and dispensed during a military operation as described herein. Examples of suitable numbers of TDA that may be ejected and dispensed from a single canister of a CMDS of a platform include one, at least one, plurality, two, three, four, and any other suitable numbers of TDA that may be ejected and dispensed from a single canister of a CMDS of a platform. In one exemplary embodiment, a single canister may be loaded with three TDAs where each TDA is arranged in a side-by-side arrangement. In another exemplary embodiment, a single canister may be loaded with four TDAs where each TDA is arranged in a side-by-side arrangement.

[0139] FIG.3A illustrate another countermeasure expendable 300. Countermeasure expendable 300 is similar to the countermeasure expendable 100 illustrated in FIG.3A, except as detailed below. Countermeasure expendable 300 includes a canister 310 loaded with a volume of countermeasure payload/material 304 with at least one TDA 330 loaded into the canister 310. [0140] As illustrated in FIG.3A, TDA 330 includes a case 332. The case 332 includes a front end (not illustrated), an opposing rear end 332, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The case 332 also includes a first side or left side 332C, an opposing second side or right left 332D, and a transverse axis defined therebetween. The case 332 also includes a top end 332E, an opposing bottom end 322F, and a vertical axis defined therebetween. As illustrated herein, the case 332 of TDA 330 is different than the case 132 of TDA 130 described above because the case 332 of TDA 330 is tapered from the front end to the rear end 332B by defining a tapered portion 334. The tapered portion 334 defines a tapered cross-section that is formed in the case 332 between a shoulder 336 and the rear end 332B of the case 332. The case 332 also has a substantially circular cross-section that is adjacent to the tapered portion 334. In addition, the case 332 of TDA 330 is configured to be loaded into the canister 310 without any hindrance or impairment during ejection.

[0141] Referring to FIG.3A, the case 330 may include a holder 390 similar to the holder 190 described above, except as detailed below. The holder 390 has a circumferential wall 390A that extends along the entire length of the holder 390. The holder 390 is also configured to receive and house the second portion of the case 332 (e.g., a time delay fuse and a fuse holder) and a SID 350 (identical to SID 150 described above and other associated parts like a gate 380). The holder 390 may also include a plurality of fins 390B that extends radially away from the holder 390 and operably engages to the circumferential wall 390A. The plurality of fins 390B is configured to be loaded into a canister without any hindrance or impairment during ejection. The holder 390 may also include a push plate 399 substantially similar to the push plate 200 of the countermeasure expendable 100 described above and illustrated in FIG.2.

[0142] The configuration of the case 332 with the inclusion of the holder 390 is considered advantageous at least because the case 332 and the holder 390 collectively provide a configuration that allows the ejected TDA 330 to progress through the air in a more predictable manner after exiting the platform 1 . In other words, the shape of the case 332 with the plurality of fins 390B of the aft holder 390 makes the TDA 330 more aerodynamic at which the travel path of the TDA 330 through the airstream, and consequent distance away from the aircraft upon rupturing, is more repeatable. Such configuration of the TDA 330 provides a more predictable and deterministic application for threat avoidance strategies by diverting an enemy threat away from the platform 1 due to the inclusion of the case 332 and the holder 390. Moreover, a substantially similar volume of countermeasure material 304 may be loaded into the case 332 as the case 132 described above. [0143] FIGS.15A-15C illustrate another countermeasure expendable 400. Countermeasure expendable 400 is similar to the countermeasure expendable 100 illustrated in FIGS.2-7C., except as detailed below. Countermeasure expendable 400 includes a canister 410 loaded with a volume of countermeasure payload/material 404 with at least one TDA 430 loaded into the canister 410.

[0144] Referring to FIG.15A, TDA 430 includes a case 432. The case 432 may have a clamshell configuration with a first portion 432A operably engaged to an opposing second portion 432B. The first portion 432A and the second portion 432B may be operably engaged via at least one hinge (not illustrated) operably engaging the first portion 432A and the second portion 432B to one another. The first portion 432A and the second portion 432B may be moveable from a closed position to an opened position in which the first portion 432A and the second portion 432B rotate about a longitudinal axis of the case 432. The first portion 432A and the second portion 432B may also collectively define a chamber 434 for housing and/or loading the countermeasure payload 404 into the case 432. Additionally, the first portion 432A and the second portion 432B may create a seal 435 at the point where the first portion 432A and the second portion 432B operably engage with one another. The seal 435 may extend about the case 432 at the outermost edges of each of the first portion 432A and the second portion 432B.

[0145] A cap (not illustrated) may be operably engaged with the case 432 where the cap covers a front opening (not illustrated) of the case 432. In contrast to the cap 136 of the case 132 described above, the cap may be operably engaged with the exterior surface of the case 432 where the cap is operably engaged with the exterior surfaces of first and second portions 432A, 432B. The cap is considered advantageous at least because the cap may maintain the components of TDA 430 and the countermeasure payload 404 inside of the case 432 prior to ejection of the TDA 430 and the countermeasure payload 404. In addition, the cap is considered advantageous at least because the cap may hold the first portion 432A and the second portion 432B together at the front end of the case 432 proximate to the front opening.

[0146] Referring to FIGS.14-15A, the case 432 may also include an interior member 438 that is collectively formed from the first portion 432A and the second portion 432B. The interior member 438 extends from the first portion 432A and the second portion 432B into the chamber 434 along the longitudinal axis of the case 432. The interior member 438 may have a front end 438A and an opposing rear end 438B proximate to the rear end of the case 432. The interior member 438 may also define a first notch 439A, via the first portion 432A, that extends from the front end 438A of the interior member 438 towards the rear end 438B of the interior member 438. Similarly, interior member 438 may also define an opposing second notch 439B, via the second portion 432B, that extends from the front end 438A of the interior member 438 towards the rear end 438B of the interior member 438. Similar to the interior member 138 described above, the interior member 438 may receive and house a time delay fuse 442 that is substantially similar to the time delay fuse 142 described above.

[0147] As illustrated in FIG.14, the TDA 430 omits any use of a bursting charge or explosive device to rupture and open the case 432 during a dispensing operation. In this illustrated embodiment, a retaining member 446 may be operably engaged with the interior member 438 to prevent the case 432 from transitioning from the closed position to the opened position before ejection. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining member 446 may be a flammable and/or ignitable cord or rope device that is wound about the interior member 438. In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable retaining member may be operably engaged with an interior member to prevent a case from transitioning from a closed position to an opened position before ejection.

[0148] Referring to FIG.14, the retaining member 446 may be operably engaged with the interior member 438 inside of the first notch 439A and the second notch 439B. Referring to FIG.15A, a first end 446A of the retaining member 446 may be operably engaged at a first portion on the interior member 438 proximate to the front end 438A of the interior member 438. An opposing second end 446B of the retaining member 446 may be operably engaged to an opposing second position on the interior member 438 proximate to the rear end 438B of the interior member 438. The use of the retraining member 446 is considered advantageous at least because the retaining member 446 provides a time delay for the TDA 430 to travel away from the platform 1 before opening and releasing the volume of countermeasure material 404 into the exterior environment.

[0149] The time delay of this TDA 430 (/.e., the retaining member 446 and the time delay fuse 442) may be shortened and/or extended based on various consideration. In one exemplary embodiment, the length of a retaining member wrapped around an interior member may shorten and/or extend the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the thickness of a retaining member may shorten and/or length the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the type of material that forms the retaining member may shorten and/or length the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the length of a time delay fuse may shorten and/or extend the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the type of material making up a time delay fuse may shorten and/or extend the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment.

[0150] Referring to FIGS.14-15B, TDA 430 may include a biaser 448. The biaser 448 may be positioned inside of the chamber 434 and embedded with the volume of countermeasure material 104. The biaser 448 may also be disposed about the interior member 438, the fuse holder 440, and the time delay fuse 442. In the illustrated embodiment, the biaser 448 may be a flat coil spring. Prior to removal of the retaining member 446, the biaser 448 is provided in a compressed state defining a first height “H1” inside of the chamber 434 (see FIG.15A). Upon removal of the retaining member 446 (/.e., retaining member burned or destroyed), the biaser 448 expands from the compressed stated to an expanded state defining a second height “H2” inside of the chamber 434 (See FIG.15C). The biaser 448 is considered advantageous at least because the biaser 448 promotes the opening of the case 432 from the closed state to the opened state when the retaining member 446 is destroyed upon ejection.

[0151] In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable biaser and/or similar device may be used to promote the opening of a case from a closed state to opened state when a retaining member is destroyed upon ejection. In other exemplary embodiments, a biaser may be positioned along any position inside of the canister to promote the opening of a case from a closed state to opened state when a retaining member is destroyed upon ejection.

[0152] Having now described the components and assemblies of the countermeasure expendable 400, the method of use and/or operation of the countermeasure expendable 400 is described below. The ejection of the at least TDA 430 from the canister 410 is substantially similar to the ejection of the at least one TDA 130 from the canister 110 as described above. However, the dispersion of countermeasure material 404 from the at least one TDA 430 is described in more detail below. [0153] Once the time delay fuse 442 of the at least one TDA 430 is ignited, via an energy pellet 470, and the SID 450 falls away from the case 432, the ignition of the time delay fuse 442 progresses from the rear end of the case 432 towards the second end 446B of the retaining member 446. The transference of energy and flare from the energy pellet 470 to the of time delay fuse 442 is denoted by arrows labeled “E5” in FIG.15A. During this burning time interval, the time delay fuse 442 and the retaining member 446 may burn simultaneously until the time delay fuse 442 and the retaining member 446 are completely burned and destroyed. As described above, the burning time interval may be shortened or extended based on the properties and characteristics of each of the time delay fuse 442 and the retaining member 446, which are described above. Once the retaining member 446 is destroyed from the second end 446B to the first end 446A, the case 432 is free from being retained via the retaining member 446.

[0154] Once the retaining member 446 is destroyed, the biaser 448 may transform and uncoil from the collapsed position (see FIGS.15A-15B) to the expanded position (see FIG.15C) to help dispense the countermeasure payload 404. The linear movement of the first and second portions 432A, 432B via the biaser 448 is denoted by arrows labeled “LM5” in FIG.15C. Such transformation of the biaser 448 moves the first portion 432A of the case 432 away from the second potion 432B of the case 432 o retaining member 446 is free from retaining the first and second portions 432A, 432B together. In other words, the first portion 432A and the second portion 432B may pivot away from one another via a hinge mechanism created between the first and second portions 432A, 432B and the cap as described above. As the first portion 432A moves away from the second portion 432B (or vice versa), the volume of countermeasure payload 404 is dispensed from the chamber 434 of the case 432 at the rear end and into the surrounding atmosphere at a distance away from the platform 1 to deter enemy threats away from said platform 1 .

[0155] FIGS.16-19C illustrate an alternative countermeasure expendable 400’.

Countermeasure expendable 400’ is substantially similar to the countermeasure expendable 400 described above and illustrated herein, except as detailed below.

[0156] Referring to FIGS.16-17, TDA 430’ includes a case 432’. The case 432’ may have a first portion 432A’ operably engaged to an opposing second portion 432B’. The first portion 432A’ and the second portion 432B’ may be separable from one another. The first portion 432A’ and the second portion 432B’ may be moveable from a closed position to an opened position in which the first portion 432A’ and the second portion 432B’ separate from one another, which is described in more detail below. The first portion 432A’ and the second portion 432B’ may collectively define a chamber 434’ between the front opening 433A’ and the rear opening 433B’. In addition, the first portion 432A’ and the second portion 432B’ may each have an interior member 438A’, 438B’ defining a central opening 439’ therethrough. As illustrated in FIG.17, the interior member 438A’ of the first portion 432A’ may extend downwardly from the first portion 432A’ towards the second portion 432B’. The interior member 438B’ of the second portion 432B’ may extend upwardly from the second portion 432B’ towards the first portion 432A’. The central opening 439’ defined by each interior member 438A’, 438B’ may be coaxial with one another when the first portion 432A’ and the second portion 432B’ are operably engaged to one another, which is described in more detail below. Each central opening 439’ is sized and configured to receive and house a time delay fuse 442’ substantially similar to the time delay fuse 442 explained previously.

[0157] Referring to FIG.17, TDA 430’ may include a front endcap 445A’ and a rear endcap 445B’. In the illustrated embodiment, the front endcap 445A’ may be operably engaged to the first portion 432A’ and the second portion 432B’ proximate to the front opening 433A’. The rear endcap 445B’ may be operably engaged to the second portion 432A’ and the second portion 432B’ proximate to the rear opening 433B’. The front endcap 445A’ and the rear endcap 445B’ may be operably engaged to first portion 432A’ and the second portion 432B’ in any suitable configuration. Examples of operably engaging a front endcap and a rear endcap with a case includes adhering, attaching, affixing, connecting, fastening, locking, linking, press-fitting, securing, welding, and any other suitable configuration for operably engaging a front endcap and a rear endcap with a case. In addition, each of the front endcap 445A’ and the rear endcap 445B’ may also define a central opening 445C’ that extends entire through each endcap 445A’, 445B’ in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the case 432’. Each central opening 445C’ is sized and configured to receive and house a time delay fuse 442’ substantially similar to the time delay fuse 442 explained previously. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear endcap 446B’ receives and houses the time delay fuse 442’. In other exemplary embodiments, a front endcap may receive and house a time delay fuse.

[0158] As illustrated in FIG.16-19B, the TDA 430’ also omits any use of a bursting charge or explosive device to rupture and open the case 432’ during a dispensing operation. In this illustrated embodiment, a retaining member 446’ may be operably engaged with the interior member 438’ to prevent the case 432’ from transitioning from a closed position to an opened position before ejection. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining member 446’ may be a flammable and/or ignitable plastic material or rope device that is positioned between the interior members 438’. In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable retaining member may be operably engaged with an interior member to prevent a case from transitioning from a closed position to an opened position before ejection.

[0159] Referring to FIGS.19B, a first end 446A’ of the retaining member 446’ may be operably engaged with the first portion 432A’ inside of the central opening 439’ of the interior member 438A’. An opposing second end 446B’ of the retaining member 446’ may be operably engaged with the second portion 432B’ inside of the central opening 439’ of the interior member 438B’. The use of the retraining member 446’ is considered advantageous at least because the retaining member 446’ provides a time delay for the TDA 430’ to travel away from the platform 1 before opening and releasing the volume of countermeasure material 404 into the exterior environment.

[0160] The time delay of this TDA 430’ may be shortened and/or extended based on various consideration. In one exemplary embodiment, the length of a retaining member inserted into a case may shorten and/or extend the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the thickness of a retaining member may shorten and/or length the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the type of material that forms the retaining member may shorten and/or length the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the length of a time delay fuse may shorten and/or extend the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the type of material making up a time delay fuse may shorten and/or extend the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment.

[0161] Referring to FIGS.17 and 18, TDA 430’ may include at least one biaser 448’. In the illustrated embodiment, a front biaser448A’ may be positioned inside of the chamber 434’ and embedded with the volume of countermeasure material 404’. The front biaser448A’ may also be disposed adjacent to the interior members 438A’, 438B’, the fuse holder 440’, and the time delay fuse 442’. In the illustrated embodiment, the front biaser 448A’ may be a flat coil spring. Prior to removal of the retaining member 446’, the front biaser 448A’ is provided in a compressed state defining a first height “J1” inside of the chamber 434’ (See FIG.19B). Upon removal of the retaining member 446’ (/.e., retaining member burned or destroyed), the front biaser 448A’ expands from the compressed stated to an expanded state defining a second height “J2” inside of the front chamber 434’ (See FIG.19C. Additionally, a rear biaser 448B’ may be used herein in a substantially similar way as to the front biaser 448A’. The inclusion of the front biaser 448A’ and the rear biaser 448B’ is considered advantageous at least front biaser 448A’ and the rear biaser 448B’ promote the opening of the case 432’ from the closed state to the opened state when the retaining member 446’ is destroyed upon ejection.

[0162] Referring to FIGS.16-17, each of the front biaser 448A’ and the rear biaser 448B’ may define at least one opening 449’. The at least one opening 449’ of each of the front biaser 448A’ and the rear biaser 448B’ may be sized and configured to receive and house a time delay fuse. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 449’ of the rear biaser 448B’ is sized and configured to receive and house the time delay fuse 442’.

[0163] In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable biaser and/or similar device may be used to promote the opening of a case from a closed state to opened state when a retaining member is destroyed upon ejection. In other exemplary embodiments, a biaser may be positioned along any position inside of the canister to promote the opening of a case from a closed state to opened state when a retaining member is destroyed upon ejection.

[0164] Having now described the components and assemblies of the countermeasure expendable 400’, the method of use and/or operation of the countermeasure expendable 400’ is described below. The ejection of the at least TDA 430’ from the canister 410’ is substantially similar to the ejection of the at least one TDA 130 from the canister 110 as described above. However, the dispersion of countermeasure material 404’ from the at least one TDA 430’ is described in more detail below.

[0165] As illustrated in FIG.18, a plurality of TDAs 430’ are loaded inside of a canister 410’ of the countermeasure expendable 400’. Each TDA of the plurality of TDAs 430’ are substantially identical to one another. As such, a first TDA 430A’ of the plurality of TDAs 430’ may be described for the operation. It should be understood that operational description of the first TDA 430A’ is substantially equal to the remaining TDAs of the plurality of TDAs 430’ illustrated herein.

[0166] During operation, an energy pellet 470 is ignited by a squib, via a bridge wire 45T of the SID 450’, to eject the first TDA 430’. The transference of energy and flare from the energy pellet 470’ to the of time delay fuse 442’ is denoted by arrows labeled “E6” in FIG.19A. Once the time delay fuse 442’ of the at least one TDA 430’ is ignited and the SID 450’ falls away from the case 432’, the ignition of the time delay fuse 442’ progresses from the rear opening 433B’ of the case 432’ towards the retaining member 446’. During this burning time interval, the time delay fuse 442’ may be completely burned and destroyed before the retaining member 446’ is completely burned and destroyed. As described above, the burning time interval for each of the time delay fuse 442’ and the retaining member 446’ may be shortened or extended based on the properties and characteristics of each of the time delay fuse 442’ and the retaining member 446’. In this embodiment, the retaining member 446’ may initial ignite or melt at a position between the first end 446A’ and the second end 446B’ of the retaining member 446’. Once the retaining member 446’ is melted and destroyed, the case 432’ is free from being retained via the retaining member 446’.

[0167] Once the retaining member 446’ is destroyed, the front biaser 448A’ and the rear biaser 448B’ may transform and uncoil from the collapsed position (see FIG.19B) to the expanded position (see FIG.19C) to help dispense the countermeasure payloads 404’. The linear movement of the first and second portions 432A’, 432B’ via the biaser 448A’, 448B’ is denoted by arrows labeled “LM6” in FIG.19C. Such transformation of the front and rear biasers 448A’, 448B’ move the first portion 432A’ of the case 432’ away from the second potion 432B’ of the case 432’ once the retaining member 446’ is free from retaining the first and second portions 432A’, 432B’ together. As the first portion 432A’ moves away from the second portion 432B’ (or vice versa), the front endcap 445A’ and the rear endcap 445B’ may also disengage from the first portion 432A’ and the second portion 432B’. Once the endcaps 445A’, 445B’ are disengaged, the volume of countermeasure payloads 404’ may be dispensed from the front chamber 434’ and rear chamber 434B’ of the case 432 and into the surrounding atmosphere at a distance away from the platform 1 to deter enemy threats away from said platform 1 .

[0168] FIGS.20-23B illustrate another countermeasure expendable 500.

Countermeasure expendable 500 is similar to the countermeasure expendables 100, 100’, 300, 400, 400’ illustrated in FIGS.2-19C, except as detailed below. Countermeasure expendable 500 includes a canister 510 loaded with a volume of countermeasure payload/material 504 with at least one TDA 530 loaded into the canister 510.

[0169] Referring to FIGS.20-21 , TDA 530 includes a case 532. The case 532 include a front end 532A, an opposing rear end 532B, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The case 532 also includes a first side or left side 532C, an opposing second side or right side 532D, and a transverse axis defined therebetween. The case 532 also include a top end 532E, an opposing bottom end 532F, and a vertical axis defined therebetween.

[0170] The case 532 may have a first portion 533A and an opposing second portion 533B. The first portion 533A and the second portion 533B may be separable from one another. Each of the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B defines a front opening 534A proximate to the front end 532A of the case 532. Each of the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B defines a front groove 534B that extends into each portion 533A, 533B along a vertical axis of each portion 533A, 533B. The front grooves 534B of portions 533A, 533B are defined proximate to the front end 532A of the case 532 and extend towards one another relative to the vertical axis of each portion 533A, 533B. The use and purpose of the front groove 534B for each portion 533A, 533B is described in more detail below. Each of the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B is a hollowed-out device that defines a cavity 534C accessible via the front opening 534A. When the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B operably engage one another, the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B collectively define a major cavity and/or chamber 534D to house a volume of countermeasure payload/material 504 (see FIG.22). Such operable engagement between the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B is described in more detail below.

[0171] Referring to FIG.21 , each of the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B includes a threaded portion 535. Each threaded portion 535 of the first and second portions 533A, 533B has a front end 535A operably engaged with the rear end 532B of the case 532 and an opposing rear end 535B positioned away from the case 532. The threaded portion 535 of the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B collectively define a threaded shaft when the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B are operably engaged with one another. Such use and purpose of these threaded portions 535 are described in more detail below.

[0172] Referring to FIGS.20-22, a cap 536 may be operably engaged with the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B of the case 532 opposite to the thread portions 535 and proximate to the front openings 534A of the first and second portions 533A, 533B. The cap 536 is also configured to cover the front openings 534A of the first and second portions 533A, 533B where the cap 536 covers reduced and/or recessed portions of the first and second portions 533A, 533B. Once assembled, the cap 536 and the case 532 are flush and/or even with one another (se FIG.20). The cap 536 includes an upper hook 537A that is disposed on an interior surface 536A of the cap 536. The cap 536 may also include an opposing lower hook 537B that is disposed on the interior surface 536A of the cap 536. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper hook 537A may operably engage with the first portion 533A inside of the front groove 534B of said first portion 533A. In addition, the lower hook 537B may operably engage with the second portion 533B inside of the front groove 534B of the said second portion 533B. The cap 536 is considered advantageous at least because the cap 536 may hold recessed and/or reduced sections of the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B together at the front end 532A of the case 532 to create clamshell case configuration. As such, the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B may rotate and/or pivot away from one another via the clamshell case configuration between the front grooves 534B and the upper and lower hooks 537A, 537B. In other words, the clamshell case configuration between the front grooves 534B and the upper and lower hooks 537A, 537B creates a hinge mechanism to transition the case 532 from a closed position (see FIG.20) to an opened position (see FIG.23B). Such operation of the case 532 and the clamshell mechanism is described in more detail below.

[0173] Referring to FIGS.20-22, a wingnut 538 may be operably engaged with the threaded portions 535 of the case 532. The wingnut 538 may include a nut 538A. The wingnut 538 may also include a plurality of fins 538B extending radially away from an exterior surface of the nut 538A. Any suitable number of fins may be operably engaged to a nut for various considerations, including the size, shape, and configuration of a wingnut, the amount of drag moving over the wingnut to loosen from threaded portions, and other various considerations. The wingnut 538 also defines a series of threads 538C that extend into the nut 538A from an interior surface of said nut 538A. Any suitable number of fins may be operably engaged to a nut for various considerations, including the size, shape, and configuration of a wingnut, the amount of drag needed to loosen the wingnut from threaded portions, and other various considerations. The inclusion of a wingnut 538 is considered advantageous at least because the wingnut 538 determines the time delay at which the countermeasure material 504 will be release into the surrounding environment after being ejected away from the platform 1 .

[0174] During ejection, the wingnut 538 will loosen from the threaded portions 535 of the case 532 due to the airstream passing over the plurality of fins 538B as TDA 530 falls through the air (see FIG.19C). Such loosening of the wingnut 538 from the case 532 may be random and unprogrammable given that the loosening of the wingnut 538 is determined based on the airstream passing over the loose end. As such, this TDA 530 is less deterministic and may be beneficial for certain military situations or operations. [0175] Referring to FIG.20, the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B of the case 532 may create a seal 539 at the point where the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B operably engage with one another. The seal 539 may extend about the case 532 at the outermost edges of each of the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B.

[0176]

[0177] Referring to FIGS.21 and 22, TDA 530 may include a biaser 548. The biaser 548 may be positioned inside of the chamber 534D that is collectively defined by the cavities 534C of the portions 533A, 533B. The biaser 548 may also be embedded with the volume of countermeasure material 504. In the illustrated embodiment, the biaser 548 may be a flat coil spring coiled up inside of the chamber 534D. Prior to loosening and disengaging the wingnut 538 from the case 532, the biaser 548 is provided in a compressed state defining a first diameter “G1” inside of the chamber 534D (see FIG.22). Upon removal of the wingnut 538 (/.e., loosened from the threaded portions 535), the biaser 548 expands from the compressed state to an expanded state defining a second diameter “G2” inside of the chamber 534C (see FIG.23B). The second diameter “G2” of the expanded state is greater than the first diameter “G1” in the compressed state. The biaser 548 is considered advantageous at least because the biaser 548 promotes the opening of the case 532 from the closed state to the opened state when the wingnut 538 is loosened from the threaded portions 535 of the case 532.

[0178] In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable biaser and/or similar device may be used to promote the opening of a case from a closed state to opened state when a retaining member is destroyed upon ejection. In other exemplary embodiments, a biaser may be positioned along any position inside of the canister to promote the opening of a case from a closed state to opened state when a retaining member is destroyed upon ejection.

[0179] The time delay of this TDA 530 may be shortened and/or extended based on various consideration. In one exemplary embodiment, the length of each threaded portion of first and second portions of a case may shorten and/or extend the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment via the wingnut loosening from said threaded portions. In another exemplary embodiment, the number of threads on one or both of a threaded shaft of a case and a wingnut may shorten and/or length the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the positioning of a wingnut on a threaded shaft of a case may shorten and/or length the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the type of biaser may shorten and/or length the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment.

[0180] Having now described the components and assemblies of the countermeasure payload 500, the method of use and/or operation of the countermeasure payload 500 is described below. The ejection of at least TDA 530 from the canister 510 is substantially similar to the ejection of the at least one TDA 130 from the canister 110 as described above. However, the dispersion of countermeasure material 504 from the at least one TDA 530 is described in more detail below.

[0181] In the illustrated embodiment, a first TDA 530A, a second TDA 530B, and a third TDA 530C may be provided in canister 510. Here, the wingnut 538 of each TDA 530A, 530B, 530C may be positioned at a different location on the threaded portion 535 of each TDA 530A, 530B, 530C. As illustrated in FIG.22, the wingnut 538 of the first TDA 530A (positioned proximate to a front end 532A of the case 532) is disposed at a first distance “W1 ” measured relative to the rear end 535B of the threaded portion 535 of the first TDA 530. The wingnut 538 of the second TDA 530B (positioned behind the first TDA 530A) is disposed at a second distance “W2” measured relative to the rear end 535B of the threaded portion 535 of the second TDA 530 where the second distance “W2” is less than the first distance “W1 .” The wingnut 538 of the third TDA 530C (positioned behind the second TDA 530B and proximate to a rear end 532B of the case 532) is disposed at a third distance “W3” measured relative to the rear end 535B of the threaded portion 535 of the third TDA 530 where the third distance “W3” is less than the first and second distances “W1 ,” “W2.” The differences in distances for each wingnut 538 on the first, second, and third TDAs 530A, 530B, 530C may provide different delay intervals for dispensing countermeasure payloads 504 at the same or different distances away from the platform 1 .

[0182] Once the TDAs 530A, 530B, 530C are ejected from the canister 510, the external airstream surrounding the TDAs 530A, 530B, 530C passes over the plurality of fins 538B of the wingnut 538 of the TDAs 530A, 530B, 530C. The airstream is denoted by arrows labeled “AS” in FIG.23A. The interaction between airstream and the wingnuts 538 of the TDAs 530A, 530B, 530C causes the wingnuts 538 of the TDAs 530A, 530B, 530C to loosen from the threaded portions 535 of the TDAs 530A, 530B, 530C. As such, the wingnuts 538 of the TDAs 530A, 530B, 530C transition and rotate away from the front end 535A of the threaded portion 535 of the TDAs 530A, 530B, 530C towards the rear end 535B of the threaded portion 535 of the TDAs 530A, 530B, 530C. The rotation of the wingnuts 538 is denoted by arrows labeled “R” in FIGS. 23A and 23B. As for the first TDA 530A, the wingnut 538 is provided at the greatest distance “W1” meaning that the wingnut 538 will have the greatest amount of time delay before completely loosening from the threaded portion 535. As for the second TDA 530B, the wingnut 538 is provided at a lesser distance “W2” than the wingnut 538 of first TDA 530A meaning that the wingnut 538 of second TDA 530B will have a lesser amount of time delay before completely loosening from the threaded portion 535 than the wingnut 538 of the first TDA 530A. As for the third TDA 530C, the wingnut 538 is provided at the shortest distance “W3” meaning that the wingnut 538 of third TDA 530C will have a lesser amount of time delay before completely loosening from the threaded portion 535 than the wingnuts 538 of the first and second TDAs 530A, 530B.

[0183] Once the wingnut 538 of each TDA 530A, 530B, 530C is completely loosened from the threaded portion 535 of each TDA 530A, 530B, 530C, the biaser 548 of each TDA 530A, 530B, 530C may transform and uncoil from the collapsed position (see FIG.23A) to the expanded position (see FIG.23B) to help dispense the countermeasure payloads 530 in each TDA 530A, 530B, 530C. Such transformation of the biaser 548 of each TDA 530A, 530B, 530C provides assistance in moving the first portion 533A of the case 532 away from the second potion 533B of the case 532 of each TDA 530A, 530B, 530C. In this embodiment, the first portion 533A and the second portion 533B of the case 532 for each TDA 530A, 530B, 530C may pivot away from one another via the hinge mechanism created between the first and second portions 533A, 533B and the cap 536 (clamshell configuration described above). The pivoting movement of the first and second portions 533A, 533B, via the biaser 548, is denoted by arrows labeled LM7 As the first portion 533A moves away from the second portion 533B (or vice versa) for each TDA 530A, 530B, 530C, the volume of countermeasure payload 504 in each TDA 530A, 530B, 530C may be dispensed from the 534D of the case 532 for TDA 530A, 530B, 530C and into the surrounding atmosphere at a distance away from the platform 1 to deter enemy threats away from said platform 1 .

[0184] During the dispensing operation, each TDA 530A, 530B, 530C may be dispensed at any suitable time. In one exemplary embodiment, each TDA of a countermeasure expendable may dispense a countermeasure payload at the same time interval. In another exemplary embodiment, at least one TDA of a countermeasure payload may dispense a countermeasure payload at a first time interval with another TDA of the countermeasure expendable dispensing another countermeasure payload at a second time interval that is different than the first time interval. In yet another exemplary embodiment, each TDA of a countermeasure expendable may dispense a countermeasure payload at different time intervals.

[0185] As illustrated in FIG.22, at least three TDAs 530 may be loaded into the canister 110 for a military operation. While at least three TDA 530 of the countermeasure expendable is provided inside of a canister 510, any suitable number of TDA may be provided inside of the canister for various considerations, includes the shape, size, and configurations of the TDAs and the canister, the type of military operation that may be encountered, and other suitable considerations.

[0186] FIGS.24-26B illustrate another countermeasure expendable 600.

Countermeasure expendable 600 is similar to the countermeasure expendables 100, 100’, 300, 400, 400’, and 500 illustrated in FIGS.2-23B, except as detailed below. Countermeasure expendable 600 includes a canister 610 loaded with a volume of countermeasure payload/material 604 with at least one TDA 630 loaded into the canister 610.

[0187] Referring to FIG.24, TDA 630 includes a case 632. The case 632 include a front end 632A, an opposing rear end 632B, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The case 632 also includes a first side or left side 632C, an opposing second side or right side 632D, and a transverse axis defined therebetween. The case 632 also include a top end 632E, an opposing bottom end 632F, and a vertical axis defined therebetween. The case 632 may define a chamber 634 for housing the countermeasure payload 604.

[0188] Still referring to FIG.24, the case 632 may include a front endcap 646A that may be operably engage with the countermeasure payload 604 at a front end 632A of said case 632. In addition, the case 632 may include an opposing rear endcap 646B that may be operably engage with the countermeasure payload 604 at a rear end 632B of said case 632. The case 632 may also be formed of a film material 648 that extends about the countermeasure payload 604 between the front endcap 646A and the rear endcap 646B. As such, a front end 648A of the film material 648 may be positioned proximate to the front endcap 646A and an opposing rear end 648B of the film material 638 may be positioned proximate to the rear endcap 646B. In the illustrated embodiment, the film material 648 used for this case 632 may be a polyester film, such as mylar, or other suitable polyamide film materials. While the film material 648 may be a polyesterfilm, such as mylar, or other suitable polyamide film materials, any other suitable material may be used for a case based on various considerations, including the thickness of the material having a suitable axial stiffness, prevention of buckling, and other various considerations.

[0189] In the illustrated embodiment, one of the front end 648A and the rear end 648B of the film material 648 may be disengaged and/or loose from one of the front endcap 646A and the rear endcap 646B and the countermeasure material 604. Having one end of the film material 648 being disengaged or loose will allow airstream to pass over the loose end to unravel and/or unwrap the film material 648 from the countermeasure material 604. Such unraveling and unwrapping of the film material 648 may be random and unprogrammable, similar to TDA 530 explained above, given that the unwrapping of the film is determined based on the airstream passing over the loose end. As such, this TDA 630 is less deterministic and may be beneficial for certain military situations or operations.

[0190] The time delay of this TDA 630 may be shortened and/or extended based on various consideration. In one exemplary embodiment, the length of a film material wrapped around a countermeasure payload may shorten and/or extend the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the thickness of a film material may shorten and/or length the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the type of material that makes up the fil material may shorten and/or length the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the length of the loosened end of a film material away from the countermeasure payload may shorten and/or length the time delay of a TDA before opening and releasing a volume of countermeasure material into the exterior environment.

[0191] As illustrated in FIG.24, the film material 648 is spirally-wrapped or helically- wrapped about the countermeasure material 604. In other exemplary embodiments, a film material may be wrapped in any suitable arrangement about a countermeasure material. In other exemplary embodiment, a film material may be provided in any suitable orientation and/or configuration about a countermeasure material that is configured to be unwrapped or removed via an airstream passing over and through the film material.

[0192] Having now described the components and assemblies of the countermeasure payload 600, the method of use and/or operation of the countermeasure payload 600 is described below. The ejection of at least TDA 630 from the canister 610 is substantially similar to the ejection of the at least one TDA 630 from the canister 610 as described above. However, the dispersion of countermeasure material 604 from the at least one TDA 630 is described in more detail below.

[0193] As illustrated in FIG.25, a plurality of TDAs 630 may be loaded into a canister 610 for a single countermeasure expendable 600. Inasmuch as each TDA of the plurality of TDAs 630 shown in FIG.25 are identical to one another, the operation of a first TDA 630A of the plurality of TDAs 630 will be discussed below. It should be noted that the operation of the first TDA 630A is substantially similar to the remaining TDAs of the plurality of TDAs 630.

[0194] Prior to loading, one of the front end 648A and the second end 648B of the film material may be loose from one of the front endcap 646A and the rear endcap 646B for assisting in unwrapping the film material 648. Once the at least one TDA 630 is ejected from the canister 610 (see FIG.26A), an airstream outside of the canister 610 may interact with the loose end of the film material 648. The airstream interacting with the loose end of the film material 648 is denoted by arrows labeled “AS” in FIG.26A. In the illustrated embodiment, the loose front end 648A of the film material 648 interacts with the airstream as the at least one TDA 630 falls through the air and away from the platform 1 . The airstream exerts a force that is suitable enough to unwrap the film material 648 from the countermeasure payload 604 and the front endcap 646A. As a film material 648 is disengaged from the front endcap 646A, the front endcap 646A falls away from the countermeasure payload 604 causing a portion of the countermeasure payload 604 to dispense into surrounding atmosphere (see FIGS.26A and 26B). The film material 648 may keep unwrapping itself once the rear end 648B of the film material 648 is disengaged from the countermeasure payload 604 and the rear endcap 646B.

[0195] The unwrapping of the film material 648 allows for the countermeasure payload 604 to be dispensed in portions due to the film material 648 unwrapping itself at random and unprogrammable time intervals from the countermeasure payload 604. As such, the volume of countermeasure payload 604 may be dispensed at different distances away from the platform 1 for deterring and diverting an enemy threat away from the platform 1. The dispensing of the countermeasure payload 604 at certain time intervals and at certain distances away from the platform 1 may be based on the properties and characteristics of the at least one TDA 630, specifically the properties and characteristics of the film material 648 described above. [0196] FIGS.27-28C illustrate another countermeasure expendable 700.

Countermeasure expendable 700 is similar to the countermeasure expendables 100, 100’, 300, 400, 400’, 500, and 600 illustrated in FIGS.2-26B, except as detailed below. Countermeasure expendable 700 includes a canister 710 loaded with a volume of countermeasure payload/material 704 with at least one TDA 730 loaded into the canister 710.

[0197] Referring to FIG.27, TDA 730 has a packet 732. The packet 732 has a first end or front end 732A, an opposing second end or rear end 732B, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The packet 732 may also define a longitudinal perforation 735 that extends from the front end 732A of the packet 732 to the rear end 732B of the packet 732 parallel to the longitudinal axis of the packet 732. The longitudinal perforation 735 formed in the packet 732 is considered advantageous at least because the perforation 735 allows for ease of rupturing or opening of the packet 732 to eject the countermeasure material 704 loaded into said packet 732, which is described in more detail below. The longitudinal perforation 735 must be resilient to withstand rupturing or opening upon initial ejection from the canister 710 while still being able to rupturing or opening via a detonation inside of the packet 732, which is also described in more detail below. The packet 732 may also define a chamber 734 that extends from the front end 732A to the rear end 732B. The chamber 734 is sealed closed prior to a dispensing operation, which is described in more detail below.

[0198] While the packet 732 defines a longitudinal perforation 735, any perforation may be defined along any suitable location and/or position of a packet. In one exemplary embodiment, a packet may define at least one perforation that extends circumferentially about a portion of the packet. In another exemplary embodiment, a packet may define a plurality of perforation that extends longitudinally along portions of the packet. In another exemplary embodiment, a packet may define any suitable perforation that is able to rupture or open the packet during a dispensing operation of a volume of countermeasure material loaded in said packet.

[0199] Still referring to FIG.27, TDA 730 may also include a logic controller or electronic package 742. The electronic package 742 may be operably connected to a squib 720 loaded with the canister 710. As such, input wiring 742A may be electrically connected from a charging component 721 of the squib 720 to an input terminal of the electronic package 742. In other exemplary embodiments, an electrical component may be separate from a squib or omitted from a countermeasure expendable. In addition, the electronic package 742 may also be operably connected to a bursting charge and/or detonator 744. As such, an output wire 742B may be electrically connected from an output terminal of the electronic package 742 to the detonator 744. The detonator 744 may be positioned inside of the packet 732 and may be substantially aligned with the longitudinal perforation 735 of the packet 732. Such alignment of the detonator 744 with the longitudinal perforation 735 may allow for suitable rupturing or opening the packet 732 by the detonator 744 along the perforation 735 during detonation, which is described in more detail below.

[0200] The electronic package 742 may be configured to hold a suitable amount of electrical charge sent from the squib 720 prior to any ejection operation. As such, the electronic package 742 may include any suitable devices and/or components that may allow the electronic package 742 to hold a charge for a suitable amount of time. In one exemplary embodiment, an electronic package 742 may include at least one capacitor to maintain an electrical charge for a suitable amount of time. The devices or components of the electronic package 742 may also be configured to release and/or output the electrical charge to the detonator 744 at a specific time delay upon an ejection operation. As such, the electronic package 742 may maintain the electrical charge for a suitable amount of time after the TDA 730 has been ejected from the canister 710 and is positioned away from the platform 1 in the surrounding environment. The time delay of the electronic package 742 may be configured to any suitable delay period based on various considerations, including the distance between a packet and a platform, the number of packets being ejected from the platform, and any other suitable considerations needed for configuring a time delay for an electronic package.

[0201] The detonator 744 of TDA 730 may be configured to have an electronic delay. During operation, the detonator 744 may receive an electrical pulse or signal from the squib 720 directly (if the electronic package 742 is omitted) or from the electronic package 742 at a specific amperage. Upon receiving this electrical pulse, the detonator 744 may be configured to detonate or explode at a specific delay period based on the type of military operation being performed. In addition, any suitable detonator may be used that is configured to have a delay period upon receive an electrical pulse or signal.

[0202] Having now described the components and assemblies of the countermeasure payload 700, the method of use and/or operation of the countermeasure payload 700 is described below. The ejection of at least TDA 730 from the canister 710 is substantially similar to the ejection of the at least one TDA 130 from the canister 110 as described above. However, the dispersion of countermeasure material 704 from the at least one TDA 730 is described in more detail below. [0203] Prior to ejection of the at least one TDA 730, the electronic package 742 is electrically charged by the squib 720 via the input wiring 742A operably connecting the squib 720 to the electronic package 742 (see FIG.28A). The electrical charging of the electronic package 742 is denoted by horizontal lines labeled “C1” in FIG.28A. The squib 720 receives power from a respective firing pin operably engaged with the squib 720 (as described above). Once the electronic package 742 of the at least one TDA 730 receives a desired amount of energy and/or a full charge as determined by the on-board sequencer of the CM DS 6, the at least one TDA 730 may be ejected (via the squib 720) any time during the military operation. The full electrical charge of the electronic package 742 is denoted by horizontal lines labeled “C2” in FIG.28B. The transference of energy and flare created by the squib 720 is denoted by arrows labeled “E8” in FIG.28B. Prior to ejection, the electronic package 742 may retain the electrical charge for any suitable amount of time based on the components and devices that are provided in the logic controller 742.

[0204] Once the at least one TDA 730 is ejected from the canister 710 (via the squib 720), the electronic package 742 may be configured to dump and/or send a predetermined amperage to the detonator 744 via the output wiring 742B. The predetermined amperage is based on the amount of amperage needed to detonate the detonator 744 inside of the packet 732. The electronic package 742 may be configured to dump the predetermined amperage to the delay detonator 744 at a desired time interval upon being ejected from the canister 710. Once the desired time interval has been reached, the electronic package 742 may dump the predetermined amperage to the delay detonator 744 causing the detonator 744 to detonate inside of the packet 732 (see FIG.28C). The energy and force created by the detonator is denoted by arrows labeled “E9” in FIG.28C. Such detonation of the detonator 744 may be sufficient enough to open the packet 732 along the longitudinal perforation 735 of the packet 732 causing the volume of countermeasure payload 704 to dispense into the surrounding environment at a distance away from the platform 1 for deterring and diverting an enemy threat away from the platform 1 .

[0205] FIGS.29A-29C illustrate another countermeasure expendable 800. Countermeasure expendable 800 is similar to the countermeasure expendables 100, 100’, 300, 400, 400’, 500, 600, and 700 illustrated in FIGS.2-28C, except as detailed below. Countermeasure expendable 800 includes a canister 810 loaded with a volume of countermeasure payload/material 804 with at least one TDA 830 loaded into the canister 810. [0206] Referring to FIG.29A, the canister 810 includes a front end 810A, an opposing rear end 810B, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The canister 810 may also include a charge block 814 substantially similar to the charge block 114 described above. In addition, the canister 810 may define a rear mounting point 824 proximate to the rear end 810B of the canister 810. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear mounting point 824 is defined in the charge block 814 that is used for the TDA 830, which is described in more detail below. In other exemplary embodiments, a mounting point may be operably engaged to any suitable portion of a canister or a charge block.

[0207] Referring to FIG.29A, TDA 830 has a packet 832. The packet 832 has a first end or front end 832A, an opposing second end or rear end 832B, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The packet 832 may also define a chamber 834 from the first end 832A to the second end 832B. The packet 832 may also define a longitudinal perforation 835 that extends from the front end 832A of the packet 832 to the rear end 832 B of the packet 832 and is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the packet 832. The longitudinal perforation 835 formed in the packet 832 is considered advantageous at least because the perforation 835 allows for ease of cutting and opening of the packet 832 to eject the countermeasure material 804 loaded into said packet 832, which is described in more detail below. The longitudinal perforation 835 must be resilient to withstand rupturing or opening upon initial ejection from the canister 810 while still being able to cut and open the packet 732, which is also described in more detail below.

[0208] Still referring to FIG.29A, TDA 830 may also include a spool or holder 836. The spool 836 may be operably engaged inside of the canister 810 and positioned between a rear end 810B of the canister 810 and the rear end 832B of the packet 832. The spool 836 may have an open first end or front end 836A, an opposing open second end or rear end 836B, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The front end 836A of the spool 836 may be free from any engagement with the canister 810, and the rear end 836B may be operably engaged with the rear end 810B of the canister 810. Additionally, the spool 836 may define a passageway 836C from the open front end 836A to the open rear end 836B. The passageway 836C defined by the spool 836 may direct the pressure and/or energy created by the squib 820 towards the packet 832 during an ejection operation, which is described in more detail below.

[0209] Still referring to FIGS.29A, the TDA 830 may also include a rip cord 838 that is wound about the spool 836. The rip cord 838 may include a first end or front end 838A, an opposing second end or rear end 838B, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The front end 838A of the rip cord 838 may be operably engaged to a cutting member 840 positioned with the packet 832, which is described in more detail below. The rear end 838B of the rip cord 838 is operably engaged with the rear mounting point 824. As such, the rip cord 838 is operably engaged with the packet 832 and the canister 810 such that the rip cord 838 controls the distance at which the packet 832 may travel away from the platform 1 during an ejection operation. In the illustrated embodiment, the rip cord 838 may define an initial length “M1” when the packet 832 is housed inside of the canister 810 that is measured from the front end 838A to the rear end 838B when the packet 832 is loaded in the canister 810 (see FIG.29A). The rip cord 838 may also define a full length “M2” once the packet 832 is ejected from the canister 810 that is measured from the front end 838A to the rear end 838B when the packet 832 is outside of the canister 810 and the rip cord 838 is no longer wound around the spool 836 (see FIG.29C); the second length “L2” is also greater than the first length “L1.” As described in more detail herein, the desired length of the rip cord 838 is the time delay feature when the packet 832 will be cut and opened to dispense the countermeasure material 804.

[0210] Still referring to FIG.29A, TDA 830 may include a cutting member 840. As described above, the cutting member 840 may be operably engaged with the packet 832 and the rip cord 838. The cutting member 840 may define a mounting hole 841 that allows the front end 838A of the rip cord 838 to operably engage with the cutting member 840. The cutting member 840 may also be configured to be substantially aligned with the longitudinal perforation 835 of the packet 832 to suitable cut and open the packet 832 when the rip cord 838 reaches the end of its leash (/.e., reaches maximum length “M2”).

[0211] In the illustrated embodiment, the cutting member 840 may be provided in a first position at the front end 832A of the packet 832 when the packet 832 remains inside of the canister 810 (see FIG.29A). The cutting member 840 may be able to transition from the first position to a second position proximate to the rear end 832 B of the packet 832 when the packet 832 is outside of the canister 810 and the rip cord 838 reaches the end of leash (see FIG.29C). In the transitioning stage, the cutting member 840 moves along the longitudinal perforation 835 of the packet 832 due to the rip cord 838 reaching its maximum length while the packet 832 is still moving away from the platform 1. The transitioning of the cutting member 840 may also be assisted by the packet 832 due to the cut portions of the packet 832 exerting a force against the cutting member 840 that is directed towards the rear end 832B of said packet 832. [0212] Still referring to FIG.29A, TDA 830 may include a plunger 842. The plunger 842 may be positioned between the rear end 832 B of the packet 832 and the front end 836A of the spool 836. The plunger 842 is configured to assist in preventing damage or destruction to the rear end 832B of the packet 832 created by the squib 820 during an ejection operation. In addition, the plunger 842 is also configured to prevent any pressure or force created by the squib 820 to escape towards the packet 832 and outside of the canister 810. In other words, the plunger 842 provides a seal inside of the canister 810 so that the pressure or force created by the squib 820 is adequately conserved and contained behind the packet 832 to eject the packet 832 from the canister 810. In the illustrated embodiment, the plunger 842 may be separable from the packet 832 and the rip cord 838 such that the plunger 842 is independent from the packet 832 when the packet 832 is provided outside of the canister 810. In other exemplary embodiments, a plunger may be operably engage to any component of a countermeasure expendable. In one exemplary embodiment, a plunger may be operably engaged with one or both of a packet and a rip cord.

[0213] Having now described the components and assemblies of the countermeasure payload 800, the method of use and/or operation of the countermeasure payload 800 is described below. The ejection of at least TDA 830 from the canister 810 is substantially similar to the ejection of the at least one TDA 630 from the canister 610 as described above. However, the dispersion of countermeasure material 804 from the at least one TDA 830 is described in more detail below.

[0214] Upon ejection, the force generated by a squib, such as squib 120, travels through the spool 836 from the rear end 832 B to the front end 832A. The force created by the squib is then exerted against the plunger 842, which is denoted by arrows labeled “E10” in FIG.29B. As described above, the plunger 842 is configured to trap the force behind the packet 832 to both protect the packet 832 and to effectively use the force to eject the packet 832 of the at least one TDA 830 from the canister 810 and into the exterior environment surrounding the platform 1. While not illustrated herein, an endcap may be ejected from canister 810 via the packet 832 applying a pushing force against the endcap in a direction away from the canister 810.

[0215] As the packet 832 travels away from the canister 810 and the platform 1 (see FIG.29B), the front end 838A of the rip cord 838 along with the cutting member 840 are traveling with the packet 832 through the air and away from the canister 810 and the platform 1 . As the rip cord 838 extends from its initial length “M1” (see FIG.29A) to its full length “M2” (see FIG.29C), the rip cord 838 maintains the cutting member 840 at the full length “M2” that is measured relative to the canister 810. As the cutting member 840 is maintained at the full length “M2” of the rip cord 838, the packet 832 travels away from the cutting member 840 causing the cutting member 840 to cut through the longitudinal perforation 835 of the packet 832. As the cutting member 840 cuts along the longitudinal perforation 835 from the front end 832A towards the rear end 832B, portions of the countermeasure payload 804 escape from the packet 832 and dispense into the surrounding atmosphere. The countermeasure payload 804 is dispensed at a distance away from the canister 810 and the platform 1 for deterring and diverting an enemy threat away from the platform 1. Once the cutting member 840 reaches the rear end 832B of the packet 832, the volume of countermeasure payload 804 loaded into the packet 832 of the at least one TDA 830 is substantially dispensed into the atmosphere.

[0216] While the countermeasure expendable 800 was a single TDA 830 inside of a single canister 810, any suitable amount of TDAs may be loaded into a canister for ejection and dispersion of countermeasure payloads. In other exemplar embodiment, the ejection and dispersion of countermeasure payloads may be repeated from the same canister (such as canister 810) if loaded with more than one TDA (such as TDA 830) or repeated from multiple canister if loaded with at least one TDA.

[0217] FIGS.30A-30B illustrate an alternative countermeasure expendable 800’. Countermeasure expendable 800’ is similar to the countermeasure expendables 800 illustrated in FIGS.2-29C, except as detailed below. Countermeasure expendable 800’ includes a canister 810’ loaded with a volume of countermeasure payload/material 804’ with at least one TDA 830’ loaded into the canister 810’.

[0218] Referring to FIG.30A, TDA 830’ may include a drogue parachute 836’. The drogue parachute 836’ may be positioned inside of the canister 810’ and positioned between a rear end 81 OB’ of the canister 810’ and a rear end 832B’ of a packet 832’. The drogue parachute 836’ may have a first end or front end 836A’, an opposing second end or rear end 836B’, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The front end 836A’ of the drogue parachute 836’ may be operably engaged with a rear end 838B’ of a rip cord 838’, and the second end 836B’ of the drogue parachute 836’ is free from any engagement with the canister 810. Prior to an ejection operation, the drogue parachute 836’ is provided in a collapsed position inside of the canister 810’ (see FIGS.30A) and transitions to an expanded position when provided outside of the canister 810’ (see FIGS.30B). The drogue parachute 836’ transitions from the collapsed position to the expanded position via the airstream passing into the drogue parachute 836’ as the TDA 830 exits from the canister 810. As such, the drogue parachute 836’ provides a similar mechanism in moving a cutting member 840’ along the packet 832’ as to the spool 836 and canister 810 moving the cutting member 840 along the packet 832 described above.

[0219] TDA 830’ may include a plunger 842’. The plunger 842’ may be positioned between squib 820’ and the rear end 836B’ of the drogue parachute 836’. The plunger 842’ may be configured to assist in preventing damage or destruction to the rear end 832 B’ of the packet 832’, the drogue parachute 836’, and the rip cord 838 by the squib 820’ during an ejection operation. In addition, the plunger 842’ is also configured to prevent any pressure or force, created by the squib 820’, to escape towards the packet 832’ and outside of the canister 810’. In other words, the plunger 842’ provides a seal inside of the canister 810’ so that the pressure or force created by the squib 820’ is adequately conserved behind the packet 832’ to eject the packet 832’ from the canister 810’. In addition, the plunger 842’ may have any suitable configuration based on plungers or push plates mentioned herein.

[0220] In the illustrated embodiment, the plunger 842’ may be separable from the packet 832’ and the rip cord 838’ such that the plunger 842’ is independent from the packet 832’ when the packet 832’ is provided outside of the canister 810’. In other exemplary embodiments, a plunger may be operably engage to any component of a countermeasure expendable. In one exemplary embodiment, a plunger may be operably engaged with one or both of a packet and a rip cord.

[0221] Having now described the components and assemblies of the countermeasure payload 800’, the method of use and/or operation of the countermeasure payload 800’ is described below. The ejection of at least TDA 830’ from the canister 810’ is substantially similar to the ejection of the at least one TDA 830 from the canister 810 as described above. However, the dispersion of countermeasure material 804’ from the at least one TDA 830’ is described in more detail below.

[0222] Upon ejection, the force generated by a squib, such as squib 120’, is exerted against the plunger 842’. As described above, the plunger 842’ is configured to trap the force behind the packet 832’ to both protect the packet 832’ and drogue parachute 836’ during ejection and to effectively use the force to eject the packet 832’ and drogue parachute 836’ of the at least one TDA 830’ from the canister 810’ and into the exterior environment surrounding the platform 1. While not illustrated herein, an endcap may be ejected from canister 810’ via the packet 832’ applying a pushing force against the endcap in a direction away from the canister 810’.

[0223] As the packet 832’ and drogue parachute 836’ travel away from the canister 810 and the platform 1 , the drogue parachute 836’ may then exit the interior compartment 843’ defined by the plunger 842’ via an external airstream exerting against the drogue parachute 836’. This external airstream may also transform the drogue parachute 836’ from the collapsed position to the expanded position (see FIG.30B). Once the drogue parachute 836 is provided in the expanded position, the front end 838A’ of the rip cord 838’ along with the cutting member 840’ are traveling with the packet 832’ through the air and away from the drogue parachute 836’. As the drogue parachute 836’ reaches full expansion, the rip cord 838’ and the drogue parachute 836’ maintain the cutting member 840’ at the full length of the rip cord 838’ causing the cutting member 840’ to cut through the packet 832’ as the packet 832’ falls away from the drogue parachute 836’, the rip cord 838’, and the cutting member 840’ (see FIG.30B).

[0224] As the cutting member 840’ is maintained at the full length of the rip cord 838’, the packet 832’ travels away from the cutting member 840’ causing the cutting member 840’ to cut through the longitudinal perforation 835’ of the packet 832’. As the cutting member 840’ cuts along the longitudinal perforation 835’ from the front end 832A’ towards the rear end 832B’, portions of the countermeasure payload 804’ escape from the packet 832’ and dispense into the surrounding atmosphere. The countermeasure payload 804’ is dispensed at a distance away from the canister 810’ and the platform 1 for deterring and diverting an enemy threat away from the platform 1 . Once the cutting member 840’ reaches the rear end 832B’ of the packet 832’, the volume of countermeasure payload 804’ loaded into the packet 832’ of the at least one TDA 830’ is completely dispensed into the atmosphere.

[0225] While the countermeasure expendable 800’ was a single TDA 830’ inside of a single canister 81 O’, any suitable amount of TDAs may be loaded into a canister for ejection and dispersion of countermeasure payloads. In other exemplar embodiment, the ejection and dispersion of countermeasure payloads may be repeated from the same canister (such as canister 81 O’) if loaded with more than one TDA (such as TDA 830’) or repeated from multiple canister if loaded with at least one TDA. [0226] FIG.31 is a method 900. Initial step 902 of method 900 comprises loading at least one countermeasure payload into a countermeasure expendable of a plurality of countermeasure expendables. Another step 904 comprises effecting the plurality of countermeasure expendables to be loaded on to a platform. Another step 906 comprises effecting a countermeasure dispensing system to initiate. Another step 908 comprises effecting the at one countermeasure payload from the countermeasure expendable to be ejected via a squib. Another step 910 comprises effecting a time delay assembly of the at least one countermeasure payload to be initiated. Another step 912 comprises effecting the time delay assembly of the at least one countermeasure payload to dispense a volume of countermeasure material from the at least one countermeasure payload at a predetermined time delay.

[0227] In an exemplary embodiment, method 900 may include additional steps. Optional steps may further comprise effecting a sequencing igniter device of the time delay assembly to transition from a first configuration to a second configuration; effecting an energy pellet of the time delay assembly to be ignited, via the squib, at a first time interval; effecting a time delay fuse of the time delay assembly to be ignited, via the energy pellet, at a second time interval; and effecting a bursting charge of the time delay assembly to be ignited, via the time delay fuse, at a third time interval. Optional steps may further comprise effecting a sequencing igniter device of the time delay assembly to transition from a first configuration to a second configuration; effecting an energy pellet of the time delay assembly to be ignited, via the squib, at a first time interval; effecting a time delay fuse of the time delay assembly to ignite, via the squib, at a second time interval; effecting a retaining member of the time delay assembly to be ignite, via the time delay fuse, at a third time interval; effecting a biaser of the time delay assembly to transition from a collapsed position to an expanded position; and effecting a case of the time delay assembly to transition, via the biaser and the retaining member, from a closed position to an open position. Optional steps may further comprise effecting a wingnut of the time delay assembly to loosen from a threaded shaft of said time delay assembly of a clamshell case of said time delay assembly, via an airstream, from an engaged position to a disengaged position; effecting a biaser of the time delay assembly to transition from a collapsed position to an expanded position; and effecting a case of the time delay assembly to transition, via the biaser and the wingnut, from a closed position to an open position. Optional steps may further comprise effecting a logic controller of the time delay assembly to be electrically charged, via an on-board power source of the platform, at a first time interval; and effecting a bursting charge of the time delay assembly to detonate, via the logic controller, at a second time interval. Optional steps may further comprise effecting a plunger of the time delay assembly to assist in moving the at least one countermeasure payload away from the platform via the squib; effecting a rip cord of the time delay assembly to unwind from a spool of the time delay assembly as the at least one countermeasure payload travels away from the platform; and effecting a cutting member of the time delay assembly to cut a packet of the time delay assembly via the rip cord.

[0228] As described and illustrated herein, any countermeasure expendable 100, 100’, 300, 400, 400’, 500, 600, 700, 800 may be loaded into a platform 1 that utilizes a CMDS, such as CMDS 6. In one exemplary embodiment, a platform may utilize the same type of countermeasure expendable on the platform that is described and illustrated herein. In another exemplary embodiment, a platform may utilize different types of countermeasure expendables on the platform that are described and illustrated herein.

[0229] Various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more methods, of which an example has been provided. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as sequential acts in illustrative embodiments.

[0230] While various inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

[0231] The above-described embodiments can be implemented in any of numerous ways. For example, embodiments of technology disclosed herein may be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination thereof. When implemented in software, the software code or instructions can be executed on any suitable processor or collection of processors, whether provided in a single computer or distributed among multiple computers. Furthermore, the instructions or software code can be stored in at least one non-transitory computer readable storage medium.

[0232] Also, a computer or smartphone utilized to execute the software code or instructions via its processors may have one or more input and output devices. These devices can be used, among other things, to present a user interface. Examples of output devices that can be used to provide a user interface include printers or display screens for visual presentation of output and speakers or other sound generating devices for audible presentation of output. Examples of input devices that can be used for a user interface include keyboards, and pointing devices, such as mice, touch pads, and digitizing tablets. As another example, a computer may receive input information through speech recognition or in other audible format.

[0233] Such computers or smartphones may be interconnected by one or more networks in any suitable form, including a local area network or a wide area network, such as an enterprise network, and intelligent network (IN) or the Internet. Such networks may be based on any suitable technology and may operate according to any suitable protocol and may include wireless networks, wired networks or fiber optic networks.

[0234] The various methods or processes outlined herein may be coded as software/instructions that is executable on one or more processors that employ any one of a variety of operating systems or platforms. Additionally, such software may be written using any of a number of suitable programming languages and/or programming or scripting tools, and also may be compiled as executable machine language code or intermediate code that is executed on a framework or virtual machine.

[0235] In this respect, various inventive concepts may be embodied as a computer readable storage medium (or multiple computer readable storage media) (e.g., a computer memory, one or more floppy discs, compact discs, optical discs, magnetic tapes, flash memories, USB flash drives, SD cards, circuit configurations in Field Programmable Gate Arrays or other semiconductor devices, or other non-transitory medium or tangible computer storage medium) encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more computers or other processors, perform methods that implement the various embodiments of the disclosure discussed above. The computer readable medium or media can be transportable, such that the program or programs stored thereon can be loaded onto one or more different computers or other processors to implement various aspects of the present disclosure as discussed above.

[0236] The terms “program” or “software” or “instructions” are used herein in a generic sense to refer to any type of computer code or set of computer-executable instructions that can be employed to program a computer or other processor to implement various aspects of embodiments as discussed above. Additionally, it should be appreciated that according to one aspect, one or more computer programs that when executed perform methods of the present disclosure need not reside on a single computer or processor, but may be distributed in a modular fashion amongst a number of different computers or processors to implement various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0237] Computer-executable instructions may be in many forms, such as program modules, executed by one or more computers or other devices. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Typically the functionality of the program modules may be combined or distributed as desired in various embodiments.

[0238] Also, data structures may be stored in computer-readable media in any suitable form. For simplicity of illustration, data structures may be shown to have fields that are related through location in the data structure. Such relationships may likewise be achieved by assigning storage for the fields with locations in a computer-readable medium that convey relationship between the fields. However, any suitable mechanism may be used to establish a relationship between information in fields of a data structure, including through the use of pointers, tags or other mechanisms that establish relationship between data elements.

[0239] All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and/or ordinary meanings of the defined terms. [0240] “Logic”, as used herein, includes but is not limited to hardware, firmware, software and/or combinations of each to perform a function(s) or an action(s), and/or to cause a function or action from another logic, method, and/or system. For example, based on a desired application or needs, logic may include a software controlled microprocessor, discrete logic like a processor (e.g., microprocessor), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmed logic device, a memory device containing instructions, an electric device having a memory, or the like. Logic may include one or more gates, combinations of gates, or other circuit components. Logic may also be fully embodied as software. Where multiple logics are described, it may be possible to incorporate the multiple logics into one physical logic. Similarly, where a single logic is described, it may be possible to distribute that single logic between multiple physical logics.

[0241] Furthermore, the logic(s) presented herein for accomplishing various methods of this system may be directed towards improvements in existing computer-centric or internetcentric technology that may not have previous analog versions. The logic(s) may provide specific functionality directly related to structure that addresses and resolves some problems identified herein. The logic(s) may also provide significantly more advantages to solve these problems by providing an exemplary inventive concept as specific logic structure and concordant functionality of the method and system. Furthermore, the logic(s) may also provide specific computer implemented rules that improve on existing technological processes. The logic(s) provided herein extends beyond merely gathering data, analyzing the information, and displaying the results. Further, portions or all of the present disclosure may rely on underlying equations that are derived from the specific arrangement of the equipment or components as recited herein. Thus, portions of the present disclosure as it relates to the specific arrangement of the components are not directed to abstract ideas. Furthermore, the present disclosure and the appended claims present teachings that involve more than performance of well-understood, routine, and conventional activities previously known to the industry. In some of the method or process of the present disclosure, which may incorporate some aspects of natural phenomenon, the process or method steps are additional features that are new and useful.

[0242] The articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.” The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims (if at all), should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e. , “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present otherthan the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc. As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0243] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc. [0244] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the term “effecting” or a phrase or claim element beginning with the term “effecting” should be understood to mean to cause something to happen or to bring something about. For example, effecting an event to occur may be caused by actions of a first party even though a second party actually performed the event or had the event occur to the second party.

[0245] When a feature or element is herein referred to as being “on” another feature or element, it can be directly on the other feature or element or intervening features and/or elements may also be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly on” another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. It will also be understood that, when a feature or element is referred to as being “connected”, “attached” or “coupled” to another feature or element, it can be directly connected, attached or coupled to the other feature or element or intervening features or elements may be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being “directly connected”, “directly attached” or “directly coupled” to another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. Although described or shown with respect to one embodiment, the features and elements so described or shown can apply to other embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that references to a structure or feature that is disposed “adjacent” another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.

[0246] Spatially relative terms, such as “under”, “below”, “lower”, “over”, “upper”, “above”, “behind”, “in front of”, and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures is inverted, elements described as “under” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “under” can encompass both an orientation of over and under. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “lateral”, “transverse”, “longitudinal”, and the like are used herein for the purpose of explanation only unless specifically indicated otherwise. [0247] Although the terms “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various features/elements, these features/elements should not be limited by these terms, unless the context indicates otherwise. These terms may be used to distinguish one feature/element from another feature/element. Thus, a first feature/element discussed herein could be termed a second feature/element, and similarly, a second feature/element discussed herein could be termed a first feature/element without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

[0248] An embodiment is an implementation or example of the present disclosure. Reference in the specification to “an embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “one particular embodiment,” “an exemplary embodiment,” or “other embodiments,” or the like, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments, of the invention. The various appearances “an embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “one particular embodiment,” “an exemplary embodiment,” or “other embodiments,” or the like, are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiments.

[0249] If this specification states a component, feature, structure, or characteristic “may”, “might”, or “could” be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included. If the specification or claim refers to “a” or “an” element, that does not mean there is only one of the element. If the specification or claims refer to “an additional” element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional element.

[0250] As used herein in the specification and claims, including as used in the examples and unless otherwise expressly specified, all numbers may be read as if prefaced by the word “about” or “approximately,” even if the term does not expressly appear. The phrase “about” or “approximately” may be used when describing magnitude and/or position to indicate that the value and/or position described is within a reasonable expected range of values and/or positions. For example, a numeric value may have a value that is +/— 0.1 % of the stated value (or range of values), +/-1 % of the stated value (or range of values), +1-2% of the stated value (or range of values), +/-5% of the stated value (or range of values), +/— 10% of the stated value (or range of values), etc. Any numerical range recited herein is intended to include all sub-ranges subsumed therein. [0251] Additionally, the method of performing the present disclosure may occur in a sequence different than those described herein. Accordingly, no sequence of the method should be read as a limitation unless explicitly stated. It is recognizable that performing some of the steps of the method in a different order could achieve a similar result.

[0252] In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, as set forth in the United States Patent Office Manual of Patent Examining Procedures.

[0253] In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed.

[0254] Moreover, the description and illustration of various embodiments of the disclosure are examples and the disclosure is not limited to the exact details shown or described.