Innovative Non-pyrotechnic Dispersion Device (INDD)

Kinetic energy munitions that dispense and disperse pellets prior to impact are effective against threats on the ground or at sea. Typically, explosives or pyrotechnics also contained within the munition are used to impart a lateral velocity to the pellets. Unfortunately, explosives pose a severe injury risk to our military handlers, and impose high shipping costs associated with hazardous material transport (Class A, B, or C). The Navy desires a safer and cheaper dispersion alternative to the explosives in kinetic energy munitions. Midé proposes a dispense and dispersion mechanism that leverages the incredibly high energy density characteristics of Shape Memory Alloys (SMA), and the thermal energy already present in the airframe structure. Strain energy in SMA induced by the high munition temperatures can be harnessed, then transferred to the pellets, providing the required lateral velocity for a wide strike footprint.