NexGen Electro-Explosive Ordnance Device with BIT

The most reliable one-shot electro-explosive ordnance device (EED) available for initiating next generation (NexGen) insensitive energetics is thought to be an exploding foil initiator (EFI) detonator, also called a slapper detonator. Slapper detonators are similar to exploding bridgewire (EBW) detonators but less prone to failure because the exploding foil is physically separated from the NexGen insensitive explosive charge (e.g., insensitive HNS-4). We propose to leverage our reliable TRL-7 Initiation Safety Device (ISD) technology developed with insensitive EFI detonator specifically for initiating gun-launched warheads or igniting solid rocket motors (SRM). This high voltage in-line ISD has Safe and Arm, and Arm-Fire logic capable of providing the built-in test (BIT) functionality required. Phase I research will focus on developing, implementing and demonstrating an EED with self-test logic in prototype hardware. That is, demonstrating a high voltage in-line EED as detonating initiator and/or deflagrating igniter with BIT functionality. The BIT can be overlaid on the existing Safe and Arm logic contained in the ISD and used to control Arm and Fire signal separation, identification, and critical event timing.