Pyrotechnic launch units and systems

Abstract

A modular pyrotechnic launch unit includes a launch module, a first module, and a second module. The launch module includes a launch barrel. The first module is coupled in series to the launch module. The first module includes a first ignition state in which the first module ignites a pyrotechnic element that will then pass through the launch barrel. The first module also includes a first pass-through state in which the first module allows a pyrotechnic element ignited by another module to pass through the first module. The second module is coupled in series to the first module. The second module includes a second ignition state in which the second module ignites a pyrotechnic element that will then pass through the first module and through the launch barrel.

Description

FIELD

This disclosure pertains to units and systems for launching pyrotechnic elements and, more particularly, to units and systems for launching multiple laser-ignited pyrotechnic elements with precision and in rapid succession.

BACKGROUND

Pyrotechnics are often used for entertainment purposes. For example, brightly colored burning pyrotechnic elements are launched into the air to provide light shows associated with outside concerts, sporting events, and holiday celebrations such as the Fourth of July or New Year's Eve. These elements are made from pyrotechnic compositions including, for example, metallic powders, salts, and other compounds which, when ignited, burn with a predetermined color or with a sparking effect.

The pyrotechnic elements usually include priming elements such as black powder, which is typically applied to the surface of the pyrotechnic elements. Also, pyrotechnic elements for such applications are typically launched using a lifting charge. The lifting charge is ignited with sparks or flames, which light the priming elements, or the priming elements may be separately ignited.

Conventional pyrotechnic systems have a number of drawbacks including the smoke and debris produced by the priming elements and lifting charge, which may be distracting and physically irritating to spectators. Priming elements and lifting charges may also be environmentally undesirable particularly where the debris falls to the ground including soil or bodies of water in and around the launch site. Also, the launch and detonation of the pyrotechnic elements are subject to significant limitations arising from the use of the priming elements and lifting charges, making it difficult if not impossible to launch and ignite successive pyrotechnic elements in short precise periods of time. Finally, the use of black powder priming elements and lifting charges requires special care to avoid injury.

The trajectories and distances traversed by the pyrotechnic elements launched in prior art pyrotechnic systems are imprecise and not generally reproducible, particularly when multiple pyrotechnic elements are launched in succession with short intervals between launches. The lack of precision and repeatability in such prior art systems makes it difficult to produce optimal synchronized pyrotechnic displays.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the invention comprise apparatuses and systems for launching multiple laser-ignited pyrotechnic elements with precision and in rapid succession.

In one embodiment, a pyrotechnic launch unit includes an elbow module, a first module, and a second module. The elbow module includes a launch barrel, an elbow passage, and a coupling tube. The elbow passage is in communication with the launch barrel. The coupling tube is in communication with the elbow passage. The first module is coupled to the elbow module. The first module includes an output passage, a first slide member, a first delivery passage, a first hopper tube, and a first laser ignition module. The output passage is in communication with the coupling tube. The first slide member includes a first pass-through bore, a first load bore, and a first laser opening. The first laser opening is in communication with the first load bore. Each of the first pass-through bore and the first load bore is in selective communication with the output passage. The first delivery passage is in selective communication with the first load bore. The first hopper tube is in communication with the first delivery passage. The first laser ignition module is configured to project a first laser through the first laser opening. The second module is coupled to the first module. The second module includes a second slide member, a second delivery passage, a second hopper tube, and a second laser ignition module. The second slide member includes a second load bore and a second laser opening. The second laser opening is in communication with the second load bore. The second load bore is in selective communication with the output passage. The second delivery passage is in selective communication with the second load bore. The second hopper tube is in communication with the second delivery passage. The second laser ignition module is configured to project a second laser through the second laser opening.

In one embodiment, a modular pyrotechnic launch unit includes a launch module, a first module, and a second module. The launch module includes a launch barrel. The first module is coupled in series to the launch module. The first module includes a first ignition state in which the first module is configured to ignite a pyrotechnic element that will then pass through the launch barrel. The first module also includes a first pass-through state in which the first module is configured to allow a pyrotechnic element ignited by another module to pass through the first module. The second module is coupled in series to the first module. The second module includes a second ignition state in which the second module is configured to ignite a pyrotechnic element that will then pass through the first module and through the launch barrel.

In one embodiment, a pyrotechnic launch unit includes an elbow module, a front module, a first slide retaining block, a second slide retaining block, and a rear module. The front module and the rear module each have a chamber for receiving a pyrotechnic element from a hopper loaded with pyrotechnic elements. A hopper is mounted to each of the front and rear modules to provide successive elements for loading and launching. A slide mechanism located in the slide retaining block receives the successive pyrotechnic elements and transports them to a launch position.

A laser ignition module is attached to each slide retainer. This module preferably is positioned so that the laser is about 0.75 to 1.0 inch above the pyrotechnic element in the slide mechanism after it has entered its launch position. The laser beam passes through a channel to minimize “blowback” from the pyrotechnic elements once ignited and also to minimize air loss during the launch. The laser beam will be focused so that it contacts sufficient surface area of the pyrotechnic element to ensure proper ignition.

Preferably, the laser ignition module will have a fixed focal length. It should be mounted so that the laser beam stays in focus and remains aligned with the channel through which it is fired. Preferably the laser will be a pulsed laser diode with a wavelength in the range of about 300 nm to 495 nm. Currently, the preferred wavelength is believed to be about 445 nm.

Embodiments also include a regulated air supply that is activated each time a pyrotechnic element is in the launch position to thrust the pyrotechnic element with a blast of air. The regulated air supply is variable so that the force of air may be adjusted as desired to launch the pyrotechnic element at as precise an altitude and as precise a velocity as desired. A launch apex of between 15 and 85 feet may, for example, be achieved with the current embodiments. Yet higher launches may also be achieved. The use of a blast of air to thrust the pyrotechnic element into the air in lieu of the more conventional black powder lifting charge is highly desirable because, among other things, it eliminates the smoke and debris produced by conventional systems.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of a pyrotechnic launch unit according to embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 2 illustrates a right side elevation view of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 illustrates a rear elevation view of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 illustrates a right side elevation view of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 illustrates a front elevation view of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 illustrates a top plan view of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 illustrates a bottom plan view of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 illustrates an isometric view of an elbow module of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 illustrates an exploded isometric view of the elbow module of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 illustrates an isometric view of the elbow module and a portion of the first module of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 illustrates an exploded isometric view of the elbow module and the portion of the first module of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 illustrates an isometric view of the elbow module and the first module of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 13 illustrates an isometric view of a first slide member of the first module of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 illustrates an isometric view of the elbow module, the first module, and a retainer plate of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 15 illustrates an isometric view of the elbow module, the first module, the retainer plate, and a portion of the second module of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 16 illustrates an isometric view of a second slide member of the second module of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 17 illustrates a partially exploded isometric view of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 18 illustrates an isometric cross-sectional view of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 19 illustrates a right side elevation view of the cross-section of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 illustrates another isometric cross-sectional view of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 21 illustrates a right side elevation view of the cross-section of FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 illustrates another isometric cross-sectional view of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 23 illustrates a right side elevation view of the cross-section of FIG. 22.

FIG. 24 illustrates another isometric cross-sectional view of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 25 illustrates a right side elevation view of the cross-section of FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 illustrates another isometric cross-sectional view of the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 27 illustrates a top plan view of the cross-section of FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 illustrates a flow chart schematically representing a method of operating the pyrotechnic launch unit of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Features, objects, and advantages of embodiments may be best understood by reference to the following description, taken in connection with the drawings, in which like reference numerals identify like elements in the several figures.

The pyrotechnic elements, which are sometimes referred to as “stars,” burn to produce various bright and vivid predetermined colors and/or sparking effects. The pyrotechnic elements burn but do not explode. The pyrotechnic elements have a burn rate that varies depending on the size, density, geometry, composition, and other properties of the pyrotechnic element. The burn rate of pyrotechnic elements is typically available from their manufacturers.

In some embodiments, the pyrotechnic elements are spherical in shape. In other embodiments, the pyrotechnic elements are cylindrical in shape. Whatever shape of pyrotechnic element is used, it is beneficial if the elements are substantially uniform in density and outer surface to ensure reproducible launch trajectories.

The pyrotechnic elements are made of, for example, metal powders, salts, and other compounds which, when ignited, burn with the desired color or colors and/or with a sparking effect. Pyrotechnic elements made with nitrocellulose compositions are particularly preferred since they do not produce significant amounts of smoke after launch.

Referring now to the Figures, an elbow module (or launch module) 110 includes a first block 112, a second block 114, a barrel (or launch barrel) 116, and optionally a member 118. First block 112 has an interior surface 112a and an exterior surface 112b. A first hollowed portion 112c extends from a top edge 112d to a first side edge 112e of the first block 112. Optionally, a second hollowed portion 112f extends from the first hollowed portion 112c to a second side edge 112g located opposite first side edge 112e. Second block 114 has an interior surface 114a and an exterior surface 114b. A first hollowed portion 114c extends from a top edge 114d to a first side edge 114e of the second block 114. The first hollowed portion 114c of second block 114 is the mirror image of the first hollowed portion 112c of first block 112. Optionally, a second hollowed portion 114f extends from the first hollowed portion 114c to a second side edge 114g located opposite first side edge 114e. The second hollowed portion 114f of second block 114 is the mirror image of the first hollowed portion 112f of first block 112.

First block 112 is fastened to second block 114 such that interior surface 112a abuts interior surface 114a and first hollowed portion 112c and first hollowed portion 114c form a chamber (or elbow passage) 110a that extends from a top surface 110b to a first side surface 110c. Chamber 110a has a cross-section 110d, an opening 110e at top surface 110b, and an opening 110f at first side surface 110c. Preferably, openings 110e and 110f are circular openings. Chamber 110a is formed in the shape of an elbow having an angle θ between 90° and 135°. Preferably angle θ is 90°.

If second hollowed portions 112f and 114f are present, together they form a cavity 110g that extends from chamber 110a to a second side surface 110h opposite first side surface 110c. Cavity 110g provides access to chamber 110a to facilitate cleaning chamber 110a or removing any obstructions from chamber 110a. Cavity 110g has an opening 110i on a second surface 110h.

Member 118 is removably secured in cavity 110g and it is sized and shaped to complete the elbow shape of chamber 110a.

Barrel 116 is a cylindrical tube having a first opening 116a at one end and a second opening 116b at the opposite end. Barrel 116 is attached to opening 110e on top surface 110b. Preferably, barrel 116 is attached into a counterbore 110j located around opening 110e.

In some embodiments, a single block may replace first and second blocks 112, 114. The blocks in any of the embodiments can be machined to form chambers and cavities using methods such as drilling, CNC machining, electrochemical machining, electrochemical discharge machining, electric discharge machining, or other methods known to a skilled artisan.

A front module (or first module) 130 is coupled in series to the launch module 110. The first module 130 includes a first front block 132, a second front block 134, a first slide retainer block 136, a slide mechanism (or first slide member) 138, a first hopper tube 140, and a first laser ignition module 142. First front block 132 has an interior surface 132a and an exterior surface 132b. A first hollowed portion 132c extends from a top edge 132d to a first side edge 132e of the first front block 132. Second front block 134 has an interior surface 134a and an exterior surface 134b. A first hollowed portion 134c extends from a top edge 134d to a first side edge 134e of the second front block 134. The first hollowed portion 134c of second block 134 is the mirror image of the first hollowed portion 132c of first front block 132. First front block 132 has first side surface 132f and a second side surface 132g opposite first side surface 132f. First side surface 132f has a first opening 132h and second side surface 132g has a second opening 132i. A pass-through chamber (or output passage) 132j extends from first opening 132h to second opening 132i. Preferably, first opening 132h and second opening 132i are circular and pass-through chamber 132j is preferably cylindrical.

First front block 132 is fastened to second front block 134 such that interior surface 132a abuts interior surface 134a and first hollowed portion 132c and first hollowed portion 134c form a chamber (or first delivery passage) 130a that extends from a top surface 130b to a first side surface 130c. Chamber 130a has a cross-section 130d, an opening 130e at top surface 130b, and an opening 130f at first side surface 130c. Preferably, openings 130e and 130f are circular openings. Chamber 130a is formed in the shape of an elbow having an angle α between 90° and 135°. Preferably angle α is 90°.

Hopper tube 140 is a tube having a first opening 140a at one end and a second opening 140b at the opposite end. Hopper tube 140 is attached to opening 130e on top surface 130b. Preferably, hopper tube 140 is attached into a counterbore 130j located around opening 130e. Preferably, hopper tube 140 is cylindrical.

First slide retainer block 136 has a top surface 136a, an elongated cavity 136b, an inner surface 136c, and a side surface 136d. Inner surface 136c is opposite top surface 136a. A bore 136e extends from top surface 136a to inner surface 136c forming an opening 136f on top surface 136a and an opening 136g in inner surface 136c.

Slide mechanism 138 has front surface 138a, rear surface 138b opposite front surface 138a, and a top surface 138c. Slide mechanism 138 is slidably mounted in elongated cavity 136b. Preferably, front surface 138a and rear surface 138b are flat. Slide mechanism 138 includes a first pass-through bore 138d and a first load bore 138e each extending from front surface 138a to rear surface 138b. A bore 138f extends from top surface 138c to load bore 138e forming an opening (or first laser opening) 138g on top surface 138c.

First slide retainer block 136 is fastened to first front block 132 and second front block 134. Preferably, first slide retainer block 136 is fastened with screws.

Slide mechanism 138 is driven by a first piston 40 that is attached to slide mechanism 138 by a first piston rod 42. Piston 40 may be pneumatic or hydraulic; preferably, it is a pneumatic piston. Piston 40 moves slide mechanism 138 between a load position and a launch position.

In the load position (or first load state), load bore 138e is positioned to align with opening 130f of chamber 130a to receive successive pyrotechnic elements from hopper tube 140 and chamber 130a and pass-through bore 138d is positioned to align with pass-through chamber 132j. In this sense, the first load state coincides with a first pass-through state.

In the launch position (or first ignition state), load bore 138e is positioned to align with pass-through chamber 132j and bore 138f of slide mechanism 138 is positioned to align with bore 136e of first slide retainer block 136. When bore 138f is aligned with bore 136e, they form a laser beam channel.

Laser ignition module 142 is disposed on top surface 136a of first slide retainer block 136. Laser ignition module 142 includes a laser diode and a lens. Laser diode produces a laser beam to ignite the pyrotechnic element before launch. Laser beam passes through laser beam channel. Laser beam channel is intended to minimize “blowback” from the pyrotechnic element and therefore is dimensioned to allow laser beam to pass through the channel while minimizing loss of air pressure during launch. Preferably, laser beam channel has a diameter that is at least 2 millimeters and more preferably 5 millimeters. The laser ignition module 142 is programmed to project a laser for a predetermined amount of time, such as 10 milliseconds to 50 milliseconds.

In a preferred embodiment, a coupling tube 148 has an end 148a and an end 148b opposite end 148a. End 148a is attached into a counterbore 110k located around opening 110f and end 148b is attached into a counterbore 132k located around opening 132i.

A rear module (or second module) 150 is coupled in series to the first module 130. The rear module 150 includes a first rear block 152, a second rear block 154, a second slide retainer block 156, a slide mechanism (or second slide member) 158, a second hopper tube 160, and a second laser ignition module 162. First rear block 152 has an interior surface 152a and an exterior surface 152b. A first hollowed portion 152c extends from a top edge 152d to a first side edge 152e of the first rear block 152. Second rear block 154 has an interior surface 154a and an exterior surface 154b. A first hollowed portion 154c extends from a top edge 154d to a first side edge 154e of the second rear block 154. The first hollowed portion 154c of second rear block 154 is the mirror image of the first hollowed portion 152c of first rear block 152. First rear block 152 has first side surface 152f and a second side surface 152g opposite first side surface 152f First side surface 152f has a first opening 152h and second side surface 152g has a second opening 152i. A pass-through chamber (or air input passage) 152j extends from first opening 152h to second opening 152i. Preferably, first opening 152h and second opening 152i are circular and pass-through chamber 152j is preferably cylindrical. In some embodiments, the pass-through chamber 152j receives pressurized air therethrough to launch the pyrotechnic elements.

First rear block 152 is fastened to second rear block 154 such that interior surface 152a abuts interior surface 154a and first hollowed portion 152c and first hollowed portion 154c form a chamber (or second delivery passage) 150a that extends from a top surface 150b to a first side surface 150c. Chamber 150a has a cross-section 150d, an opening 150e at top surface 150b, and an opening 150f at first side surface 150c. Preferably, openings 150e and 150f are circular openings. Chamber 150a is formed in the shape of an elbow having an angle β between 90° and 135°. Preferably angle β is 90°.

Hopper tube 160 is a tube having a first opening 160a at one end and a second opening 160b at the opposite end. Hopper tube 160 is attached to opening 150e on top surface 150b. Preferably, hopper tube 160 is attached into a counterbore 150j located around opening 150e. Preferably, hopper tube 160 is cylindrical.

Second slide retainer block 156 has a top surface 156a, an elongated cavity 156b, an inner surface 156c, and a side surface 156d. Inner surface 156c is opposite top surface 156a. A bore 156e extends from top surface 156a to inner surface 156c forming an opening 156f on top surface 156a and an opening 156g in inner surface 156c.

Slide mechanism 158 has front surface 158a, rear surface 158b opposite front surface 158a, and a top surface 158c. Slide mechanism 158 and is slidably mounted in elongated cavity 156b. Preferably, front surface 158a and rear surface 158b are flat. Slide mechanism 158 includes a pass-through bore 158d and a second load bore 158e each extending from front surface 158a to rear surface 158b. A bore 158f extends from top surface 158c to load bore 158e forming an opening (or second laser opening) 158g on top surface 158c.

Second slide retainer block 156 is fastened to first rear block 152 and second rear block 154. Preferably, second slide retainer block 156 is fastened with screws.

Slide mechanism 158 is coupled to a driving mechanism. In one embodiment, the driving mechanism comprises a second piston 44 that is attached to slide mechanism 158 by a second piston rod 46. Piston 44 may be pneumatic or hydraulic; preferably, it is a pneumatic piston. Piston 44 moves slide mechanism 158 between the load position and the launch position.

In another embodiment, the driving mechanism comprises a motor that is coupled to slide mechanism 158. The motor can be a linear motor, a servo motor, a stepper motor, or any motor that can drive slide mechanism 158 in a linear motion.

In the load position (or second load state), load bore 158e is positioned to align with opening 150f of chamber 150a to receive successive pyrotechnic elements from hopper tube 160 and chamber 150a and pass-through bore 158d is positioned to align with pass-through chamber 152j. In this sense, the second load state coincides with a second pass-through state. In some embodiments, only pressurized air travels through the pass-through bore 158d. In other embodiments, however, pyrotechnic elements from upstream modules also travel through pass-through bore 158d.

In the launch position (or second ignition state), load bore 158e is positioned to align with pass-through chamber 152j and bore 158f of slide mechanism 158 is positioned to align with bore 156e of second slide retainer block 156. When bore 158f is aligned with bore 156e, they form a laser beam channel 22.

Laser ignition module 162 is disposed on top surface 156a of second slide retainer block 156. Laser ignition module 162 includes a laser diode 162a and a lens 162b. Laser diode 162a produces a laser beam 62 to ignite the pyrotechnic element before launch. Laser beam 62 passes through laser beam channel 22. Laser beam channel 22 is intended to minimize “blowback” from the pyrotechnic element and therefore is dimensioned to allow laser beam 62 to pass through the channel while minimizing loss of air pressure during launch. Preferably, laser beam channel 22 has a diameter that is at least 2 millimeters and more preferably 5 millimeters. The laser ignition module 162 is programmed to project a laser for a predetermined amount of time, such as 10 milliseconds to 50 milliseconds.

Some embodiments have one or more hopper tubes that feed the pyrotechnic elements. Pyrotechnic launch assemblies including one, two, three, eight, or the like number of hopper tubes are contemplated herein.

The elbow module, such as elbow module 110, can be fixed or pivotably attached to the front module 130. When pivotably attached, the elbow module 110 pivots between −90° and 90°, for instance. The elbow module 110 can be pivoted to a specified angle between each launch of a pyrotechnic element.

An air supply system may be attached to the pyrotechnic launch assembly to provide compressed air to actuate the pistons 40, 44. The air supply system may include an air compressor, air tank, power source, air delivery lines, air pressure regulator, or the like to provide a desired output pressure of air to actuate the pistons 40, 44.

In some embodiments, a retainer plate 30 disposed between the first module 130 and the second module 150. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainer plate 30 is coupled to each of the first slide retainer block 136 and the second slide retainer block 156. The retainer plate 30 includes a bore 32 defined therein. The bore 32 allows pyrotechnic elements and/or pressurized air to pass therethrough.

In accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, multiple pyrotechnic elements (or spherical capsules containing multiple pyrotechnic elements) are loaded into each hopper tube of the pyrotechnic launch assembly. In some embodiments, each hopper may be loaded with pyrotechnic elements of a particular color or other display feature. Other embodiments allow for a mix of colors for the pyrotechnic elements of each hopper. Each slide mechanism of the pyrotechnic launch assembly is in the load position. A first pyrotechnic element may be received in the load bore of the slide mechanism. Pyrotechnic elements are launched in succession by operating the slide mechanisms one at a time in a predetermined or random launch cycle. The launch cycle starts when the slide mechanism is moved by its associated piston to transport pyrotechnic element into the launch position. In the launch position, a pyrotechnic element is located in the launch channel. While the pyrotechnic element is in the launch channel for one particular slide mechanism, all other slide mechanisms are placed in the pass-through position. The laser ignition module is activated to emit a laser beam that ignites the pyrotechnic element. The air supply system supplies a regulated blast of air to propel the ignited pyrotechnic element through the launch channel (and the pass-through channels of the other downstream slide mechanisms, if any are present), into the elbow module, and into the air to the desired elevation and trajectory. The launch cycle ends when the slide mechanism is moved by its associated piston to the load position to receive the next pyrotechnic element, which places the pass-through channel of the slide mechanism in the launch channel so another module may fire and launch its respective pyrotechnic element. Some embodiments further include one or more sensors confirming whether the previous pyrotechnic element has left the launch channel prior to firing another pyrotechnic element with a laser. In some embodiments, each launch cycle may be completed within 100 milliseconds.

For example, a pyrotechnic launch assembly may have multiple hopper tubes with each supplying pyrotechnic elements of different colors that are launched in a predetermined order starting from the front module and continuing with one or more additional modules from closest to farthest relative to the elbow module. The first launch cycle launches the pyrotechnic element in the front module. The second launch cycle launches the pyrotechnic element in the module closest to the front module. Depending on the number of modules, additional launch cycles will proceed after the second launch cycle, if additional modules are present. Launch cycles may be repeated until the hopper tubes are empty.

The above process can be controlled by onboard circuitry which may receive commands from a conventional DMX-based lighting console to achieve a rapid repeatable multiple pyrotechnic element launch process. In some embodiments, the programming and timing need not be adjusted by the user. However, variables including air pressure and height may still be user-controlled.

In addition, sensors such as optical sensors and limit switches may be included in the pyrotechnic launch assembly to monitor for obstructions, such as jammed pyrotechnic elements or slide mechanisms, or to monitor the launch cycles. Other embodiments include one or more sensors detecting whether a pyrotechnic element has been loaded for firing.

The force (e.g., pressure) of the regulated blast of air may depend in part on the burn rate of the pyrotechnic element and the desired height to which the pyrotechnic element will be propelled. The higher the burn rate, the greater the force of the regulated blast of air to propel a pyrotechnic element to the same height as a pyrotechnic element with a lower burn rate.

In some embodiments, the regulated blast of air is set to a fixed pressure within an appropriate range. In another embodiment, the regulated blast of air may be varied between launches to different pressures within the appropriate range. By varying the pressure, a pyrotechnic launch assembly with two or more hoppers may launch pyrotechnic elements having the same burn rate to different heights or pyrotechnic elements having different burn rates to the same height. For example, a pyrotechnic launch assembly with two hoppers, each loaded with the same type of pyrotechnic element, can be operated with a variable regulated blast of air to launch the elements to different heights. In another example, a pyrotechnic launch assembly with two hoppers—one hopper loaded with a pyrotechnic element having a faster burn rate than the other hopper—may be operated with variable regulated blast of air to launch the elements to the same height. The elements with the faster burn rate would require a regulated blast of air at a relatively higher pressure, whereas the elements with the slower burn rate would require a regulated blast of air at a relatively lower pressure.

Although only first and second modules 130, 150 have been described and illustrated herein, further modules are also contemplated. In some embodiments, the pyrotechnic launch assembly is a modular pyrotechnic launch assembly that can be expanded or condensed in number of modules depending on the needs of a particular display to be created. In some embodiments, a third module that is identical to the first module 130 can be coupled in series to the second module 150. A fourth module that is identical to the second module 150 can be coupled in series to the third module. In the illustrated embodiment, the first module 130 and second module 150 face each other with the retainer plate 30 disposed therebetween. The third and fourth module may similarly face each other, and the third module may be removably coupled to the second module.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar references in the context of describing embodiments (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable other unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (i.e., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to illuminate embodiments and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the embodiments unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the embodiments.

Variations of the described embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the embodiments to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, embodiments include all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed embodiments unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

Claims

1. A pyrotechnic launch unit comprising: an elbow module (110) including a launch barrel (116),an elbow passage (110a) in communication with the launch barrel, anda coupling tube (148) in communication with the elbow passage;a first module (130) coupled to the elbow module, the first module including an output passage (132j) in communication with the coupling tube,a first slide member (138) including a first pass-through bore (138d), a first load bore (138e), and a first laser opening (138g), the first laser opening in communication with the first load bore, each of the first pass-through bore and the first load bore in selective communication with the output passage,a first delivery passage (130a) in selective communication with the first load bore,a first hopper tube (140) in communication with the first delivery passage, anda first laser ignition module (142) configured to project a first laser through the first laser opening; anda second module (150) coupled to the first module, the second module including a second slide member (158) including a second load bore (158e) and a second laser opening (158g), the second laser opening in communication with the second load bore, the second load bore in selective communication with the output passage,a second delivery passage (150a) in selective communication with the second load bore,a second hopper tube (160) in communication with the second delivery passage, anda second laser ignition module (162) configured to project a second laser through the second laser opening.

2. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 1, wherein the elbow module includes two blocks (112, 114) coupled to one another, the two blocks cooperatively forming the elbow passage.

3. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 1, wherein the first module includes two blocks (132, 134) coupled to one another, the two blocks cooperatively forming the first delivery passage.

4. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 3, wherein the output passage includes a through-bore defined in one of the two blocks.

5. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 1, wherein the second module further includes an air input passage (152j) in selective communication with the second load bore, the air input passage configured to receive pressurized air therethrough.

6. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 5, wherein the second module includes two blocks (152, 154) coupled to one another, the two blocks cooperatively forming the second delivery passage.

7. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 6, wherein the air input passage includes a through-bore defined in one of the two blocks.

8. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 5, wherein the pressurized air received through the pyrotechnic launch unit can be adjusted such that pyrotechnic elements launched by the pyrotechnic launch unit have a launch apex of between 15 and 85 feet.

9. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 1, wherein the first module and the second module are made of identical components.

10. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 1, wherein the first module further includes a first piston (40) having a first piston rod (42), the first piston rod coupled to the first slide member.

11. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 10, wherein the second module further includes a second piston (44) having a second piston rod (46), the second piston rod coupled to the second slide member.

12. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 11, wherein each of the first piston and the second piston is actuated by pressurized air.

13. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 1, wherein the first laser ignition module is configured to project the first laser having a wavelength between 300 nm and 495 nm, andthe second laser ignition module is configured to project the second laser having a wavelength between 300 nm and 495 nm.

14. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 1, wherein the first module further includes a first slide retainer block (136), the first slide member slidably disposed in the first slide retainer block.

15. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 14, wherein the first laser ignition module is coupled to the first slide retainer block.

16. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 15, wherein the first slide retainer block includes an opening (136f) defined therein, the opening in selective communication with the first laser opening, the first laser ignition module configured to project the first laser through the opening and the first laser opening.

17. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 14, wherein the second module further includes a second slide retainer block (156), the second slide member slidably disposed in the second slide retainer block.

18. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 17, wherein the second laser ignition module is coupled to the second slide retainer block.

19. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 18, wherein the second slide retainer block includes an opening (156f) defined therein, the opening in selective communication with the second laser opening, the second laser ignition module configured to project the second laser through the opening and the second laser opening.

20. The pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 17, further comprising a retainer plate (30) disposed between the first module and the second module, the retainer plate coupled to each of the first slide retainer block and the second slide retainer block.

21. A modular pyrotechnic launch unit comprising: a launch module (110) including a launch barrel (116);a first module (130) coupled in series to the launch module, the first module including a first ignition state in which the first module is configured to ignite a pyrotechnic element that will then pass through the launch barrel, anda first pass-through state in which the first module is configured to allow a pyrotechnic element ignited by another module to pass through the first module; anda second module (150) coupled in series to the first module, the second module including a second ignition state in which the second module is configured to ignite a pyrotechnic element that will then pass through the first module and through the launch barrel.

22. The modular pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 21, wherein the first module further includes a first load state in which a pyrotechnic element is retrieved, the first load state coinciding with the first pass-through state, andthe second module further includes a second load state in which a pyrotechnic element is retrieved.

23. The modular pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 21, wherein the second module includes a second pass-through state in which the second module is configured to allow pressurized air to pass through the second module, andthe first module is in the first ignition state while the second module is in the second pass-through state.

24. The modular pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 23, further comprising a third module coupled in series to the second module, the third module including a third ignition state in which the third module is configured to ignite a pyrotechnic element that will then pass through the second module, the first module, and the launch barrel, anda third pass-through state in which the third module is configured to allow a pyrotechnic element ignited by another module to pass through the third module, and a fourth module coupled in series to the third module, the fourth module includinga fourth ignition state in which the fourth module is configured to ignite a pyrotechnic element that will then pass through the third module, the second module, the first module, and the launch barrel, anda fourth pass-through state in which the fourth module is configured to allow pressurized air to pass through the fourth module.

25. The modular pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 24, wherein the third module is identical to the first module, andthe fourth module is identical to the second module.

26. The modular pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 24, wherein the first module and the second module face each other, andthe third module and the fourth module face each other.

27. The modular pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 24, wherein the first module and the second module are coupled to each other,the third module and the fourth module are coupled to each other, andthe third module is removably coupled to the second module.

28. The modular pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 21, wherein the launch module is pivotable relative to the first module.

29. The modular pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 21, wherein each of the first module and the second module is pneumatically operated.

30. The modular pyrotechnic launch unit of claim 21, wherein the first ignition state includes operation of a first laser ignition module (142), andthe second ignition state includes operation of a second laser ignition module (162).