CN1090312C - Separation system - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention discloses a separation system (20) for separating a first section (48) from a second section (52). In one embodiment, the separation system includes first and second dipoles (26, 30) initially connected to each other of the first and second sections (48, 52), an expandable explosive system contained within a cavity defined by the first and second dipoles (26, 30) and the first and second sections (48, 52), and first and second staggered slots (40, 44) disposed on the first and second dipoles, the first and second dipoles separating along a fracture surface defined by the first and second staggered slots to facilitate substantially collision-free separation and ejection of the first section (48) relative to the second section (52).

Description

separation system

Technical field

The present invention relates generally to a separation system, and more particularly to a separation system for separating a first section from a second section.

Background technique

In the launch vehicle industry, various separation systems have been developed over the years to separate the payload fairings from the launch vehicle, thereby removing the cover of any spacecraft contained therein for to use. In this regard, point and line separation systems have been employed for many years to separate payload fairings from launch vehicles.

A major design consideration is to provide a system, not only for the launch vehicle separation system, but for other separation systems, that will result in no collision between the separated structure and the retained structure. For example, in the launch vehicle industry, it is important for the separation system to clear the payload fairing structure from the launch vehicle without any collision between them. However, it has become increasingly difficult to design such collision-avoiding separation systems where large and bulky structures are employed.

Contents of Invention

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a separation system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a separation system which results in a complete separation of one structure from another.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a separation system that results in substantially collision-free separation of a first structure relative to a second structure.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a separation system which creates reduced separation shock.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a separation system which reduces the chance of separation debris and contamination.

The present invention achieves one or more of the stated objects by providing a separation system for separating a first structure from a second structure. Generally, according to one aspect of the present invention, the separation system includes first and second structural members (such as a doubler (doubler) or doubler plate), the first and second structural members disposed on the first and second structural members first and second slots and explosive contained between said first and second structural members interconnecting said first and second structures at least initially, said first structural member and said The second structural member is separated, and the explosive is used to rupture the first and second fracture surfaces at the first and second fracture surfaces defined by corresponding first and second grooves on the first and second structural members. Structure. Importantly, the first and second slots are offset or staggered (eg, non-coplanar) relative to each other so that the first and second fracture surfaces on the first and second structural members, respectively, are relative to each other. Offset or offset apart (eg, non-coplanar) in order to avoid unwanted contact between them. In addition, in order to strengthen the destruction of the first and second structural members, the first and second grooves may be provided in the first and second structural members according to the specific structural member on which the grooves are provided. Explosive side and/or non-explosive side.

In order to facilitate the separation of said first and second structural members and to avoid undesired contact or large collisions between them during separation, in one embodiment, the first groove edge on the first structural member is formed by A first cut plane defined by the explosive device is positioned and a second slot on the second structural member is positioned such that the second slot is aligned with at least a portion of the explosive device. For example, a second groove on the second structural member may be aligned with the central portion of the explosive device core so that as the explosive device expands to a circular profile upon ignition, the second structural member will fail. or break. In another embodiment, first and second slots respectively staggered in said first and second structural members are arranged along a tangential plane defined by said explosive device. Such cut planes may be defined by the first and second parts of the explosive device (eg the ends of the explosive device in the unexploded state). In this regard, the first and second offset fracture surfaces defined by the first and second offset grooves in the first and second structural members, respectively, may be substantially the same as the first and second offset fracture surfaces defined by the explosive device. The second cut plane is consistent. In these embodiments of the separation system of the present invention, when the explosive device is ignited, the first and second structural members or doublers break or separate at their weak points (e.g., at the first and second deflection points). placed or staggered slots). Due to the offset or staggered arrangement of the first and second slots, the relatively collision-free separation of the first and second sections or structures when igniting the explosive device is facilitated by reducing the Unfavorable contact between separated parts of two structural members.

This separation system is particularly useful in situations where separation of the first structure relative to the second structure is required. In this respect, the present invention allows separation of the first and second structural members without adverse collisions between the separated parts of said first and second structural members or detonation in the inflated state when the explosive device is ignited to separate the first and second structural members. The first structure is separated relative to the second structure without the devices colliding or damaging each other. For example, in a rocket having a first structure (eg, payload fairing, doors, windows, canopy, spaceship, etc.) and a second structure (eg, center launch vehicle, ground-based rocket, air-based rocket, or sea-based rocket) When moving in a first direction (e.g., along the longitudinal axis of the rocket or the direction of motion of the rocket), the first structure can be caused to move in at least one second direction (e.g., , at least transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis of the rocket or at least orthogonally with respect to the direction of the rocket) without detrimental contact with the second structure, so that the first structure is removed from the second structure Freely detached (e.g. where sprayed). In this regard, the first structure may at least Separation along a second direction (eg, at least laterally) relative to the second structure along at least a first direction (eg, along a longitudinal axis of the rocket). Thus, the present invention not only provides separation of said first and second structural members by breaking said first and second structural members when the explosive device is ignited, but also by providing at least an offset or staggered arrangement of first and second structural members. two grooves to reduce the possibility of undesired contact, which facilitates separation of said first and second structural members at first and second fracture surfaces, said first fracture surface being offset from the second fracture surface or Offset.

In summary, in order to enhance the severed separation of the structural member or doubler and the separation of the first structure and the second structure relative to each other, the first groove is provided on the first and second surfaces of the first structural member (for example, One surface of the explosive face side and the non-explosive face side) is arranged on the first part of the first structure to define a failure line through the first structure, and the second groove is arranged on the second structure on one of the first and second surfaces (e.g., the blast face side and the non-blast face side) of the member, disposed on the second portion of the second structural member to define a line through the second structural member The second breaks the line. The first portion of the first structure is offset or offset from the second portion of the second structure along a first direction. In this regard, since the first and second staggered grooves are respectively disposed on the first and second portions of the first and second structural members, this facilitates at least a second direction along the first structure. Relatively collision-free separation with respect to the second structure.

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, to further increase the chances of a relatively crash-free separation between the first and second structures, reducing the force required to break and bend said structural members to facilitate such separation, said first And the second structural member (eg, the doubler plate) can be shaped or tended to bend about or hinge in a selected area. In this regard, by providing stiffening bending means, the bending of said first and second structural members when igniting an explosive device can be strengthened and controlled to a certain extent. In one embodiment, the stiffening bending means includes a stiffening portion on at least one of the first and second structural members or doublers to facilitate bending of the first and second structural members around selected portions while , contributing to the destruction of said first and second structural members, for example at the first and second staggered grooves, respectively. In this aspect, the thickness of such reinforcing portions of the first and/or second structural members is greater than the thickness of the first and/or second structural members at the first and second staggered grooves. Such reinforcement may comprise a thickened portion of said doubler and or a separate doubler plate or stiffener connected to the first and/or second structural member. In another embodiment, the stiffened bend means comprises at least one first stiffened bend relief portion on at least one of the first and second structural members. Such a reinforced bend relief portion contributes to the neutralization of the first and second structural members when the explosive device is ignited to destroy at least one of the first and second structural members at a portion thereof away from the reinforced bend relief portion. A bend or hinge around or within the release portion. In this regard, said one or more relief portions define a thickness within said first and/or second structural member that is less than other portions of said first and/or second structural member thickness. Such relief portions may be provided on upper or lower portions of the non-explosive facing surfaces of the structural members to further facilitate bending of said structural members away from the explosive device when the explosive device is ignited. Having a weakened portion or groove in the first and/or second structural member to facilitate separation of the first and/or second structural member along a failure line defined by such groove and further including one or more relief portions to To facilitate bending of the first and/or second structural member when detonating the explosive device, the thickness of the structural member at the release portion is greater than the thickness of the structural member at the slot. In this regard, the structural member will have previously failed at the slot and bent at the relief portion, thereby allowing separation of the first section from and relative to the second section.

In another embodiment, the separation system further includes a sliding surface arrangement coupled to at least the first structural member. Importantly, said sliding surface means is adapted to at least initially guide one of said first and second sections away from the other of said first structural member after separation of at least said first structural member by igniting said explosive means . In this respect, the sliding surface arrangement contributes to Relative collision-free separation of the first section relative to the second section. In this embodiment, said sliding surface arrangement comprises at least one first slider connected to one of said first and second sections. In order to inhibit destructive contact between separated portions of said first and second structural members following ignition of an explosive device, said sliding surface means is aligned with or in line with one of said first and second staggered slots. noodle. Further, in order to guide said first section away from the second section at least initially so that separate parts of at least one of the first and second structural members (which initially connect said first section and second section) are not relative to each other There would be detrimental contact, the first slider being oriented between about 1° and about 90° relative to the at least one first and second structural members. For example, in a vehicle with a first segment (eg, payload fairing, payload, doors, windows, canopy, spacecraft, etc.) and a second segment (eg, center launch vehicle, ground-based rocket, air-based rocket, or sea-based rocket) When the rocket is moved in a first direction (for example, along the longitudinal axis of the rocket), by employing at least a first slider of the separation system of the present invention, the first section can be caused to move in at least one second direction relative to the second section Separation (for example at least transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis of the rocket) without substantial destruction of said first or second section. More specifically, with the rocket moving in a first direction (e.g., along the longitudinal axis of the rocket), the first slider at an angle between about 1° and about 90° relative to said first direction at least initially The first section is directed away from the second section at least partially in a second direction to inhibit undesired contact between separate portions of the first and second structures. In this way, the present invention not only provides separation of the first and second structures, but also reduces the likelihood of substantial damage by impact by providing at least the first slide to guide the first section away from the second section .

In another embodiment, said sliding surface means comprises first and second opposing slides or pads for guiding said first section after separation of said first and second structural members by igniting an explosive device. Stay away from the second quarter. In this embodiment, the first and second slides define a slide surface aligned with or substantially coplanar with the first groove on the first structure, the slide surface A first cut plane defined by the first end of the explosive device in the unexploded state is coplanar. In particular, said first and second sliding pads are respectively interconnected with the first and second segments and are capable of sliding engagement with each other. In this aspect, when the explosive device is ignited to separate at least one first and second structural member, the first and second pads are used to at least initially separate along at least one first separation defined by the first and second pads. A surface guides the first section away from the second section. For example, said first and second sliding pads are relative to at least one first and second segment or to at least one The first and second structural members may be oriented in the range of about 1° to about 90°. In one embodiment, the first and second sliding pads are oriented at about 90° relative to the at least one first and second structural members to facilitate said first segment being perpendicular to at least one of said first segments at least initially. The direction of the first and second structural members moves away from the second section. To further enhance this guided separation, at least one of the first and second sliding pads is coated with a low-friction coating.

Description of drawings

1 is a perspective view of laterally separating tri-sector payload fairings from a launch vehicle using the separation system of the present invention;

Figures 2A-2C represent sequential cross-sectional views of one embodiment of the separation system of the present invention;

Figures 3A-3C represent sequential cross-sectional views of another embodiment of the separation system of the present invention;

4A-4D represent sequential cross-sectional views of yet another embodiment of the separation system of the present invention;

Figures 5A-5C represent sequential cross-sectional views of another embodiment of the separation system of the present invention;

FIG. 6 shows sequential cross-sectional views of another embodiment of the separation system of the present invention, which is used, for example, to separate a first section from a second section at least longitudinally, which can then be separated by continue to move and/or orient;

7A-7C represent sequential cross-sectional views of another embodiment of the separation system of the present invention;

8A-8C represent sequential cross-sectional views of another embodiment of the separation system of the present invention;

9A-9C represent sequential cross-sectional views of another embodiment of the separation system of the present invention;

10A-10C represent sequential cross-sectional views of another embodiment of the separation system of the present invention;

11A-11C show sequential cross-sectional views of another embodiment of the separation system of the present invention.

Detailed ways

Figures 1-11 illustrate various characteristic properties of the separation system of the present invention. In general, the separation system of the present invention may be used at least initially to interconnect a first section and a second section, thereafter, to separate said first section from the second section. This separation allows the first section to be forcibly ejected relative to the second section using other means such as conventional military devices, thrusters or spring-like devices. In this regard, the separation system of the present invention may be used in a variety of applications (including, but not limited to, laterally separating at least three stages of payload fairing 10a, 10b, and 10c from the longitudinally extending core launch vehicle 12 ), the core launch vehicle runs along its longitudinal axis 11 as shown in FIG. 1 . Of course, the separation system of the present invention may also be used to laterally separate at least two stages of payload fairing from a core launch vehicle (not shown). Further, although the embodiments of the separation system described herein primarily separate at least longitudinally oriented structures laterally, the separation systems described herein can also be used to longitudinally separate at least transversely oriented structures.

In one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2C , the separation system 20 includes first and second structural members or doublers 26, 30, one with The expansion tube explosive charge system of the explosive 36 contained between the doublers 26, 30 and the first and second grooves 40, 44 respectively placed on the first and second doublers 26, 30. The first and second doublers 26, 30 are connected to the first and second sections or structures 48, 52, such as a payload fairing and the launch vehicle, respectively. corresponding to the core. In this regard, the separation system 20 at least initially interconnects the first and second segments 48, 52 and then, as described in more detail below, The first segment 48 is separated from the second segment 52 by means 26 , 30 .

As shown particularly in FIG. 2A, the first and second sections 48, 52 to be separated are at least initially connected to each other by the separation system 20 of the present invention. In this regard, the first and second doublers 26, 30 of the present invention extend between and are interconnected with said first and second segments 48, 52 to be separated. This interconnection may be accomplished by mechanical fasteners such as bolts 56a, 56b which extend and insert into the first and second doublers 26, 30 and first and second segments 48, 52, respectively. in the hole. A cavity or space is defined between the ends 49 , 53 of the first and second segments 48 , 52 and the inner walls 27 , 31 of the first and second doublers 26 , 30 for containing the explosive 36 . The explosive 36 (for example single core or double core) may be contained within an elastomer 37 which is contained together in an expandable metal tube 38 . The expansion tube 38 is interconnected with the second section 52 by a restraint band 55, and by containing the deflagration material when the explosive 36 is ignited or deflagrates, the expandable metal tube 38 provides a non-polluting The separation of the first section 48 relative to the second section 52 . In this regard, deflagration of the explosive 36 causes the tube 38 to expand into a generally circular shape. This expansion of the tube 38 damages or breaks the first and second doublers 26, 30 as will be described in detail below, the first and second doublers 26, 30 at The first and second grooves 40, 44 are subjected to shear and/or tension. In order to absorb the shock vibration force produced by the detonation of explosive 36, between the ends 39a, 39b of the tube 38 and the ends 49, 53 of the first and second segments 48, 52, a for example A vibration-absorbing sheet 35 made of silica gel.

In one embodiment shown in FIG. 2A , to facilitate at least lateral separation of the first longitudinally extending segment 48 relative to the second longitudinally extending segment 52 , the first and second grooves 40 , 44 They are arranged on the outer walls 28, 32 of the first and second doublers 26, 30, respectively. The first and second grooves 40, 44 provide points of weakness on the first and second doublers 26, 30, thereby defining fracture or damage surfaces, when the explosive 36 is ignited, the first and second The doubler 40, 44 will fracture along this fracture plane. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2A , the first slot 40 on the first doubler 26 is spaced apart from the second slot 44 on the second doubler 30 . In this regard, the first and second slots 40, 44 are not in the same plane (eg, offset from each other) relative to each other. In this embodiment, however, the first and second slots 40, 44 are placed in the first and second doublers 26, 26, respectively, along the tangential plane defined by the ends 39a, 39b of the unexpanded tube 38 containing the explosive 36, respectively. 30 on. In particular, the first slot 40 on the first doubler 26 is aligned with the tangential plane defined by the first end 39a of the unexpanded tube 38, while the second slot 44 is aligned with the second end on the tube 38. alignment. This arrangement of the first and second slots 40, 44 facilitates relatively damage-free separation of the first segment 48 relative to the second segment 52 because detonating the explosive 36 as described in FIGS. 2B-2C Expansion of the tube 38 at the time causes the first and second doublers 26, 30 to be disconnected and bent away from the tube 38 in such a way as to allow the first section 48 to at least The expansion tube 38 and the tops of the split portions 29a, 33a of the first and second doublers 26, 30 are moved laterally away.

FIG. 2B depicts the separation system 20 shown in FIG. 2A after the explosive 36 has been detonated. Ignition of the explosive 36 causes the tube 38 to expand into a substantially circular cross-section due to the action of the expanding gas detonation products. As shown in FIG. 2B , this expansion of the tube 38 deforms the first and second doublers 26 , 30 portions and causes the first and second doublers 26 , 30 to be positioned in the first and second slots 40 . , the weak portion at 44 is fractured or ruptured. Since the elastomer 37 absorbs many of the shock forces generated by the explosive 36, the primary force causing the expansion of the tube 38 is the high pressure within the tube 38 created by the expanding gas products. Detonation and ignition of the explosive 36 may be accomplished through a control circuit (not shown).

As shown in Figure 2B, after the explosive 36 is ignited, the first and second sections 48, 52 are separated. In this regard, the first section 48 is movable relative to the second section 52 . In one embodiment, where at least lateral separation is desired relative to the longitudinally extending doublers 26 , 30 , particularly where at least lateral separation of the first segment 48 is desired relative to a longitudinally moving second segment 52 . The separation system 20 of the present invention avoids unwanted contact between the first and second sections 48 , 52 and/or disadvantageous contact between the first and second sections 48 , 52 and the expansion tube 38 . Contacts are especially useful. In this regard, since the respective broken ends 29a, 29b, 33a, and 33b of the first and second doublers 26, 30 are unlikely to collide with each other or with the expanded metal tube 38, the The metal tube remains interconnected with the second section by the restraint band 55 after detonating the explosive 36, so the selected positions of the first and second grooves 40, 44 on said first and second doublers 26, 30 respectively facilitate this separation. In this regard, said first segment 48 is free to at least laterally separate from the second segment 52, as shown in FIG. 2C. This lateral separation may be accomplished by an ejection device (not shown) for pushing said first section 48 laterally away from said second section 52 .

In one embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A-3C , in order to increase the fracture destructive force generated by the detonation of the explosive 136 and the expansion of the tube 138, while facilitating the first and second sections or doublers 126, 130 The relatively collision-free separation of said first and second grooves 140, 144 are spaced apart in stages (non-planar) from each other, and further they can be arranged on said first and second structural members or doublers, respectively. Explosive facing sides 126, 130 and non-explosive facing sides 127, 132. In this embodiment, the second slot 144 may be positioned approximately centrally of the expansion tube 138 and/or explosive 136 as opposed to along the cut plane defined by the ends of the explosive device. In this regard, as shown in FIG. 3B, when the tube 138 expands to a circular cross-section upon ignition of the explosive 136, the second structural member 130 is substantially tensile fractured due to bending. In addition, to increase the likelihood of the illustrated first section 148 being separated from the second section 152 without impact, the first slot 140 may be positioned along the edge of the expandable tube 138 containing the explosive 136 (in the non-explosive state). A cut surface defined by the end portion 139 a is provided on the first structural member 126 . This arrangement of the stepped slots 140, 144 enhances damage to the first and second structural members 126, 130 and reduces vibration since less force is required to make the doubler Or the structural members 126, 130 break. Particularly, since bending facilitates the fracture of the second structural member 130, the second groove 144 is arranged on the non-explosive face side 132 of the second structural member 130 at a position close to the central part of the explosive system, and this position will The stress concentration moves to the tensile load region. In this regard, when the explosive 136 is ignited and causes the tube 138 to expand, the second doubler 130 will break or fail under the tensile force. Further, the provision of the first slot 140 along a tangent defined by the non-expandable tube 138 provides for fracture of the first doubler 126 along a fracture plane above the expandable tube 138 (e.g., ignition of explosives). 136), which facilitates a relatively damage-free separation between the first and second sections 148, 152. Once the doubler 126, 130 is broken or deformed, as shown in FIGS. 3B-3C, the first section 148 is generally free to separate with respect to the second section 152. Thus, the stepped spacing of the grooves 140, 144 reduces the gap between the portions 129a, 129b and 133a, 133b of the first and second structural members 126, 130 relative to each other and/or to the expansion tube. 138 Unwanted force exists between.

In yet another embodiment of the invention depicted in FIGS. 4A-4C , the separation system 220 of the present invention includes first and second structural members or double sections interconnecting the first and second sections 248, 252 to be separated. Devices 226, 230, the first and second grooves 240, 244 respectively arranged on the explosion-facing surfaces and non-explosive-facing surfaces of the first and second doublers 226, 230, the explosives contained in an expansion tube 238 236, the expansion tube is located between the first and second doublers 226, 230 and between the first and second sections 248, 252 to be separated, and a The interconnected first and second slide members 260 , 264 of the two sections 248 , 252 define sliding surface means that facilitate relatively collision-free separation of the first section 248 relative to the second section 252 . More specifically, in order to separate the first and second doublers 226, 230 along the fracture plane to allow relatively collision-free lateral separation of the first segment 248 relative to the second segment 252, the first and second slots 240, 244 are arranged on the inner and outer walls 227, 232 of the first and second doublers 226, 230, respectively. The first and second slots 240, 244 are respectively arranged on the blast facing walls and the non-explosive facing walls 227, 232 of the first and second doublers 226, 230, resulting in tensile loads due to bending. area, which facilitates the destruction of the doubler 226,230. Further, the first and second grooves 240, 244 are arranged alternately. In this regard, the first slot 240 is positioned to substantially align with the tangential plane defined by the end 239a of the expandable tube 238 containing the unexploded explosive 136 . Said second groove 244 is placed in the position near the central portion of the expansion tube 238 in the central part of the doubler 230, so that the second doubler 230 broken at its center. This position of the first and second slots 240 , 244 results in destruction or fracture of the first and second doublers 226 , 230 . In this regard, the first and second slots 240, 244 are displaced or staggered relative to each other to facilitate the positioning of the first and second doublers 226, 230 in the first and second slots 240, 244. The damage or fracture at the place, because the first and second slots 240, 244 define the weakened areas of the first and second doublers 226, 230, respectively. Likewise, ignition or detonation of the explosive 236 causes the expansion tube 238 to expand and bend and break apart the first and second doublers 226, 230 so that the first segment 248 is laterally above the expansion tube 238 as shown in FIG. 4B. movement, which is restricted to the second section 252 in the conventional manner. Fracture or destruction of the first and second doublers 226, 230 at the first and second slots 240, 244 allows substantially collision-free separation of the first segment 248 relative to the second segment 252, which is This is because the breaking ends 229a, 229b of the first doubler 226 and the breaking parts 233a, 233b of the second doubler 230 can be separated from each other.

Referring to FIGS. 4A-4C , the sliding fit of the first slide 260 relative to the second slide 264 further facilitates relatively bump-free lateral separation of the first section 248 relative to the second section 252, the first and second The sliding members 260, 264 are interconnected to the first and second segments 248, 252 to be separated and define a sliding surface 270 along these sliding members, at least initially, the first segment 248 is movable relative to the second segment 252. move. In particular, the first segment 248 may be moved (eg, ejected) relative to the second segment 252 when the first and second doublers 226 , 230 are separated by the detonation of the explosive 236 . In order to at least facilitate lateral separation of, for example, the first segment 248 relative to the second segment 252, the first and second slides 260, 264, and in particular the faces 261, 265 of the first and second slides 260, 264 face each other. The longitudinally extending first and second doublers 226, 230 are at least transversely oriented (eg, 90°). Likewise, the first and second slides 260, 264 facilitate a substantially bump-free separation by at least initially limiting longitudinal downward movement of the first section 248 relative to the second section 252, at least until the first section 248 has passed through the second section 252 (as shown in FIGS. 4B-4C ). In this regard, the first and second slides 260, 264 inhibit unwanted contact of the first segment 248 with the exploding metal tube 238 and the second segment 252, at least initially, as shown in FIG. 4C. When the first segment passes at least laterally from the second segment 252, as shown in Figure 4D, it is free to move longitudinally downward relative to the longitudinally extending and moving second segment 252.

In particular, the first and second surfaces 261, 265 of the illustrated first and second sliders 260, 264, respectively, are load bearing surfaces that slidably engage each other, at least initially, so that the first section 248 is relative to the first section 248. The second section 252 slides laterally away from the second section. In this embodiment as depicted in FIGS. 4A-4C, the first and second slides 260, 264 are generally perpendicular to the longitudinally extending first and second doublers 226, 230 and are to be moved relative to each other. Separate first and second sections 248,252. Further, in order to enhance the relatively crash-free lateral separation of the first segment 248 relative to the second segment 252, the sliding surface 270 defined by the first and second sliding members 260, 264 is substantially parallel to that on the first doubler 226. Aligned or coplanar with the first slot 240 that defines a fracture plane for the first doubler 226 . The alignment of the sliding surface 270 with the first slot 240 strengthens the first segment 248 relative to the second by substantially limiting unwanted contact between the cut-off portions 229a, 229b of the first doubler 226. Separation and ejection of Section 252. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the sliding surfaces may be defined by first and second sliding members on opposite sides of the first and second doublers (e.g. outer plates) and may be connected to the second Slots 244 are aligned.

In this regard, collision-free lateral separation and ejection of the first section 248 relative to the second section 252 is possible even as the second section 252 continues to move in a direction parallel to its longitudinal axis, because of this The separation system 220 facilitates separation and ejection of the first section 248 in a direction at least perpendicular to the direction of motion of the second section 252 . Likewise, even where the second section 252 (e.g., the center launch vehicle) moves along a longitudinal axis parallel to said second section 252 to facilitate collision-free separation of the first section 248 relative to the second section 252 , the separation system 220 of the present invention is particularly useful for lateral separation of the first section 248 relative to the second section 252 .

In order to facilitate correct lateral ejection, at least one of the respective bearing surfaces 261, 265 of the sliders 260, 264 may be coated with a low friction material. In this embodiment, as depicted in Figures 4A-4C, the surface 265 of the first slider 264 includes a lubricious layer or low friction coating 262, such as molybdenum disulfide dry film lubricant. Further, the orientation and length of the first and second sliders 260, 264 depend on, for example, the desired first and second doublers 226, 230 relative to the first and second segments 248, 252 and the The separation orientation (eg, perpendicularly orthogonal) of the predicted or intended fracture planes of the doublers 226, 230 may vary. For example, the slider 270 may be substantially coplanar with one of the fracture surfaces of the first and second doublers 226, 230 so as to guide the first segment 248 away from the second segment 252, which is thus shown in FIG. 4B - 4C limits unwanted contact between the separated parts. More specifically, the sliding surface 270 defined by the first and second sliding surface members 260 , 264 may be positioned substantially coplanar with at least one of the fracture surfaces of the first and second doublers 226 , 230 aligned position to at least initially limit the downward longitudinal movement of the first section 248 relative to the second section 252, and in particular limit the isolation end portions 229a, 229b, 233a, 233b from each other and from the expansion tube Destructive contact between 238. In this regard, the positioning of the staggered slots 240, 244 and the sliding surface arrangement serves to limit the separation of the first and second doublers 226, 230 from each other and from the expansion tube 238. Adverse contact between.

As described in the separation system embodiment above, the first and second slots on the first and second structures or doublers may be staggered relative to each other to prevent inconsistencies between the separation parts. Hope to contact. In addition, such a separation system may further comprise a sliding surface arrangement to further limit unfavorable contact between said separated parts. In another embodiment, a separation system is disclosed that utilizes coplanar grooves on said first and second structures to achieve a substantially non-destructive separation. In the embodiment depicted in Figures 5A-5C, the separation system includes a sliding surface arrangement coplanar with first and second opposing grooves on the first and second doublers, respectively. In this regard, the sliders defining said sliding surfaces may be arranged and arranged so as to inhibit collision of said first and second doublers, at least initially, as they separate. 5A-5C, in this embodiment of the separation system, the system 320 includes at least initially interconnected first and second doublers 326, 330, the first and second doublers to be separated Sections 348, 352, with explosive 336 contained therebetween, coplanar first and second slots 340 disposed on first and second doublers 326, 330 and first and second slides 360, 364 , 344, the first and second sliders 360, 364 are aligned with the coplanar first and second slots 340, 344 on the first and second doublers 326, 330. The first and second grooves 340, 344 are positioned adjacent to a tangential plane defined by a first end portion 339a of the expansion tube 338 in the unexploded state. Further, in order to facilitate the destruction of the first and second doublers 326, 330, the first and second grooves 340, 344 are arranged on the explosion surfaces of the first and second doublers 326, 330 on the surface. In order to achieve, for example, at least lateral separation of the first section 348 relative to the second section 352, while avoiding the separation of the first and second doublers 326, 330 from the separated parts 329a, 333a of the expansion tube 338 and/or from the first Unfavorable contact between the separated end portions 333b of the doubler 330 can place the first and second sliders 360, 364 in substantially alignment with the first and second slots 340, 344 s position. In this regard, upon disengagement, the first segment 348 is movable relative to the second segment 353 along a sliding surface 370 defined by the first and second slides 360, 364, which is substantially consistent with the The failure lines of the first and second doublers 326, 330 coincide. Likewise, the sliding surface members 360, 364 serve to limit the downward movement of the first segment 348 relative to the second segment 352, at least initially, so as to prevent the separation end portions 329a, 329b, 333a, 333b from moving relative to each other and from each other. Collision contact with the expansion tube 338 . Further, the first and second sliders 360, 364 may be aligned (e.g., in length) to slidably cooperate with each other to at least initially limit downward movement of the first section 348 relative to the second section 352, At least until an ejection system (not shown) is used to forcefully eject the separated first section 348 away from the second section 352 .

Figure 6 shows another embodiment and application of the separation system of the present invention. In this embodiment, the separation system 420 is used to at least longitudinally separate a first section (eg, a door) 448 from a second section (eg, at least a laterally moving rocket) 452 . Alternatively, the separation system may be used to separate the payload 13 shown in FIG. 1 from the longitudinally extending and moving center launch vehicle 12 . 6, the separation system 420 includes first and second doublers 426, 430 at least initially interconnecting said first and second segments 448, 452, one containing two explosives 436a, 436a, 436b separates or splits the dual center explosion system of the first and second doublers 426, 430 along with detonation, and the staggered and non-common The first and second grooves 426,430 of the surface. As noted above with respect to other embodiments, the first and second slots 440, 444 may be aligned with the cut plane of the tube 438 containing the explosive 436 to facilitate relative alignment of the first section 448. Collision-free separation and ejection in second section 452. In this embodiment, the first and second slots 440, 444 on the first and second laterally extending doublers, respectively, are staggered (eg, not coplanar with each other). The first and second grooves 440, 444 define areas of weakness (e.g., fracture surfaces) for the first and second doublers 426, 430 so that when the explosive 436 is fired, they will follow the grooves 440, 430, 444 defines the fracture surface of the fracture. To further facilitate collision-free longitudinal separation and ejection, the separation system 420 also includes a sliding surface 470 defined by the first and second sliding members 460, 464 along which the In doing so, the first section 448 is slidably moved longitudinally relative to the second section 452 in a collision-free manner. In this aspect, the slides 460 , 464 limit lateral movement of the first segment 448 relative to the second segment 452 during ejection of the first segment 448 . Of course, a single core explosive could be used instead of the dual core explosive shown in FIG. 6 .

According to another aspect of the invention shown in Figures 7A-7C, a separation system for separating the first segment and the second segment is provided. Referring to Figure 7A, the separation system 520 includes first and second doublers 526, 530 extending between and interconnecting the first and second segments 548, 552. The system 520 further includes an explosive 536 contained within an elastomer 537 , both of which are contained within an expandable metal tube 538 . The explosive 536, elastomer 537 and expandable metal tube 538 are all placed within a cavity defined by respective inner walls 527, 531 (e.g., of the blast facing) of the first and second doublers 526, 530 , the tube 538 is connected to the second section 552 by a stainless steel band 555 wrapped around it. The separation system 520 further includes a sliding surface arrangement having first and second sliding members 560, 564, the arrangement defining a sliding surface. The first and second sliders 560, 564 are interconnected with the first and second segments 548, 552, respectively. Likewise, as the explosive 536 ignites and the tube 538 expands, the first and second doublers 526, 530 are separated and destroyed as shown in FIG. In the second quarter, 552 left. During separation and ejection of the first segment 548 relative to the second segment 552, the first and second sliders 560, 564 are slidably engaged with each other so as to substantially limit the relative movement of the first segment 548 relative to the second segment 548. Significant longitudinal downward movement of section 552 is particularly beneficial where second section 552 continues to move longitudinally upward. In this regard, collisions of the first segment 548 and the second segment 552 may be limited as the first and second doublers 526, 530 separate.

To further reduce the likelihood of adverse collisions, the separation system may further include additional bending means associated with (e.g., interconnectable, integrally formed in or on) the first and second structural members 526, 530, respectively, to Bending or articulation of the first and second structural members 526, 530 is facilitated as shown in FIGS. 7A-7C. In this embodiment, the stiffened bending means defines stiffened or stiffened portions 580, 582 that reinforce the bending or articulation of said first and second structural members 526, 530 at selected portions so that as the explosive 536 When ignited, the expansion tube 538 will cause the first and second structural members 526, 530 to rotate around or near the reinforcement portions 580, 582, respectively, and in the first position of the first and second structural members 526, 530, respectively. and the second staggered slots 540,544 are broken away from the reinforcing means 580,582. In this regard, the reinforcing flexure or portion may be a separate piece of stiffening material (e.g., a metal such as titanium, aluminum, stainless steel, or combinations and/or mixtures thereof) interconnected with the first structural member 526. 580, as shown in Figure 7A. Alternatively, the reinforcing bending means or reinforcing portion may be a thickened portion of said structural member or doubler. In this embodiment, the stiffening portion includes a thickened portion 582 of the second structural member 530 integrally formed with the second structural member 530 to provide one or more stiffened portions as shown in FIG. 7A . The thicker second structural member 530 has less damaged parts. The thickness of this thickened portion 582 is greater than the thickness of the doublers 526, 530 and greater than the thickness of the doublers 526, 530 at said first and second grooves 540, 544, respectively. In this regard, the doublers 526, 530 will break or break at the first and second slots 540, 544, respectively, and bend near the reinforcement regions 580, 582.

8A-8C depict another embodiment of the separation system of the present invention. In this embodiment, the separation system 620 includes first and second doublers 626, 630 at least initially interconnecting the first and second segments 648, 652 to be separated, and housed in a removable Explosive charge 636 within expanded metal tube 638 is contained within a cavity defined by the first and second doublers 626 , 630 and first and second segments 648 , 652 . In addition, the separation system 620 includes first and second grooves 640, 644 that define failure lines for the first and second structural members 626, 630, respectively, when the explosive 636 is ignited and causes the tube 638 to expand into a circle The first and second structural members 626, 630 fail when shaped in cross-section. To facilitate such failure and reduce the amount of explosive required to bend the first and second structural members 626, 630 as the tube 638 expands, the separation system 620 further includes enhanced bending means. In this embodiment, the stiffening flex means includes relief portions 690, 692 on said first and second structural members 626, 630, respectively. Alternatively, said stiffening bending means comprises a stiffening portion, which has been described above.

As shown in FIG. 8A , in order to facilitate a relatively collision-free separation of the first segment 648 relative to the second segment 652 , the first and second doublers 626 , 630 of the separation system 620 The slots 640, 644 are staggered relative to each other. In this embodiment, the first and second slots 640, 644 are disposed along first and second tangential planes defined by the first and second ends 639a, 639b of the tube 638 in the unexpanded state. In order to enhance the bending of these doublers 626, 630 when the explosive 636 is ignited and cause the doublers 626, 630 to break, the release portions 690, 692 on the first and second doublers 626, 630, respectively, are in contact with the grooves 640 , 644 move away. In this embodiment of the split system, the release portions 690, 692 on the first and second doublers 626, 630 are also staggered relative to each other. In particular, in order to enhance the flexing of the doublers 626, 630 when the explosive 636 is fired, the relief portions 690, 692 are positioned near the ends defined by the second and first ends 639b, 639a, respectively, of the unexpanded tube 638. The location of the second and first cut planes. Further, in order to ensure that the doublers 626, 630 are damaged and separated at the slots 640, 644 and not damaged and separated at the release parts 690, 692, the release parts 690, 692 pass through the doublers 626, 630 defines a thickness greater than the thickness of the first and second doublers 626, 630 defined by the first and second grooves 640, 644, respectively. At this point, when the explosive 636 is ignited or ignited and the tube 638 subsequently expands into a circular profile, the first and second doublers 626, 630 are positioned in the first and second staggered grooves 640. , 644 breaks and bends around the release portion 690, 692, and moves away from the first and second grooves 640, 644 as shown in FIG. 8B. As such, less explosive force is required to break and bend the doublers 626,630.

Basically as with other embodiments described above, the separation system 620 may further include a sliding surface arrangement with first and second sliding members 660, 664 to further facilitate a relatively collision-free lateral Separation and ejection of the first section 648 relative to the second section 652 . In this aspect, the first and second slides 660, 664 are interconnected to the first and second segments 648, 652 at about 90° relative to the longitudinally extending first and second doublers 626, 630 orientation. Likewise, as shown in FIG. 8C, the sliders 660, 664 inhibit the first and second doubler by at least initially inhibiting downward longitudinal movement of the first segment 648 relative to the second segment 652. Dangerous collision between the separated parts 629a, 629b, 633a, 633b of 626, 630 and said expansion tube 638.

In another embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A-9C , the first and second staggered slots 740, 744 of the separation system 720 are combined with stiffening bends 790, 792 on the first and second doublers 726, 730. cooperate to provide a relatively collision-free separation of the first section 748 relative to the second section 752. In this embodiment, the second slot 744 on the second doubler 730 is located near the central portion of the explosive device (for example, near the central portion of the charge 736 or tube 738), in contrast to the first slot 740 are staggered or offset, said first grooves 740 being disposed along a cut plane defined by the first end 739a of the expansion tube 738 containing the explosive 736 .

In order to strengthen the curved shape of the doubler 726, 730 when the explosive 636 is ignited and the tube 738 expands, a first strengthening bending device comprising a release portion 790 is arranged in the first doubler 726 apart from the first groove 740. and close to (eg, in line with) a second cut plane defined by the second end 739b of the tube 738 . Further, in the second doubler 730 , reinforcement bending means including release portions 792 , 794 are provided on both sides of the second groove 744 provided at the center of the second doubler 730 . Especially, in order to enhance the flexibility of the second doubler 730 when the second doubler 730 is separated at the second groove 744, the release parts 792, 794 on the second doubler are set The first and second cut planes defined closest to the first and second ends 739a, 739b of the tube 738 are obtained. In this regard, when the explosive 736 detonates and the tube 738 expands to a circular profile, the separated portions of the doublers 726, 730 tend to bend rapidly outward relative to the tube 738 about the release portions 790, 792 and 794. Likewise, the relief portions 790, 792, 794 on the doublers 726, 730 facilitate bending of the first and second doublers 726, 730 when the tube 738 expands. In addition, in order to ensure that the doubler 726, 730 is damaged and separated at the groove 740, 744 and is not damaged and separated at the release part 790, 792, 794, the first and second grooves 740, 744 determined and the thickness of the second doubler 726 , 730 is less than the thickness of the first and second doubler 726 , 730 defined by the relief portions 790 , 792 and 794 . Alternatively, the reinforced bending means employed in this embodiment includes a reinforced portion, which has been described above.

The reinforced bending device of the present invention may also be used in separation systems using opposing or coplanar slots. 10A-10C, the separation system 820 of the present invention includes first and second doublers 826, 830, an expansion tube explosion system included between the first and second doublers 826, 830, and respectively First and second slots 840 , 844 on first and second doublers 826 , 830 . In this embodiment, the first and second slots 840 , 844 are disposed opposite each other along a first cut plane defined by a first end 839 a of the expansion tube 838 containing the explosive 836 . At this point, when the explosive 836 detonates, as shown in Figure 10B, the first and second doublers 826, 830 will fail at the first and second slots 840, 844.

In order to provide the first and second doublers 826, 830 that are easy to bend when the explosive 836 is fired, the split portion 820 further includes first and second reinforcements disposed on the first and second doublers 826, 830, respectively. The bend releases the 890, 892 portions. In order to reduce the force required to rotate or bend the first and second doublers 826, 830, the first and second reinforced bend relief portions 890, 892 are disposed closest to the second portion 839b of the expansion tube 838, respectively. A second cut plane is defined. As previously described with respect to other embodiments of the present invention, the thicknesses of the first and second doublers 826, 830 at the release portions 890, 892, respectively, are thicker than those at the first and second slots 840, 844, respectively. The thickness of the first and second doublers 826, 830 is such that the first and second doublers 826, 830 are destroyed at the first and second slots 840, 844, respectively, and around the release portions 890, 892, respectively. The first and second doublers 826, 830 are bent. To achieve substantially collision-free separation of the first segment 848 relative to the second segment 852, the separation system 820 may further include a sliding surface arrangement with first and second sliding members 860, 864 for at least initially The first segment 848 is directed at least orthogonally with respect to the second segment 852, substantially as described above with respect to the other embodiments.

Figures 11A-11C illustrate yet another embodiment of the invention in which coplanar or opposing slots on the doubler are used. In this embodiment, the separation system 920 includes first and second tanks 940, 944 disposed on the first and second doublers 926, 930, disposed between the first and second doublers 926, 930 An explosive device between them, and a strengthening bending device that helps to bend the first and second doublers 926, 930 when the explosive 936 is fired. Since the at least lateral separation of the first section 948 relative to the second section 952 requires at least some initial longitudinal separation to avoid unfavorable contact between the expansion tube 938 and the separated ends 929, 929b, 933a, 933b, this aspect of the present invention One embodiment is used to achieve longitudinal separation of the first segment 948 relative to the second segment 952 at least initially. This longitudinal separation can be accomplished using an ejection system (not shown).

In this embodiment, the first and second slots 940 , 944 on the first and second doublers 926 , 930 are positioned closest to the central portion of the explosive 936 or expansion tube 938 . In this regard, when the explosive 936 is ignited, the force generated and used to expand the tube 938 separates the doublers 926, 930 at the first and second slots 940, 944 where the corresponds to the maximum diameter area of the expanded tube 938 . In order to strengthen the curved shape of the doubler 926, 930 correspondingly with such centrally disposed grooves 940, 944, reinforcing bending means comprising a reinforcing portion or a releasing portion are arranged along or closest to the end 939a, 939b on said first and second doubler 926, 930 of said first and/or second cut plane. In this embodiment, release portions 990, 992 are provided on first doubler 926 and release portions 994, 996 are provided along first and second cut planes defined by ends 939a, 939b of tube 938. on the second doubler 930 . As in the embodiment described above, in order to ensure breaking at the slot and bending at the release portion, the first and second doublers 926, 930 at the first and second slots 940, 944 The thickness is less than the thickness of the first and second doublers 926 , 930 at the release portions 990 , 992 , 994 , 996 .

The foregoing description of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description of the invention. Further, these descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as formed herein. Accordingly, various changes and modifications commensurate with the above teachings and the skill and knowledge of the relevant art are within the scope of the present invention. The embodiments described above are further intended to explain the best modes known to practice the invention, and to enable others skilled in the art to use the invention in one embodiment or another, and to adapt the invention to specific applications. Make various desired modifications. The appended claims include some alternative embodiments as the prior art allows.

Claims (26)

1. A system for separating first and second sections, comprising: first and second structural members connectable to at least said first and second sections, respectively, said first structural member being displaceable from said second structural member and capable of interfacing with said second structural member connect; said first and second slots respectively disposed on said first and second structural members, said first and second slots correspondingly defining first and second non- a coplanar fracture plane, wherein said first groove is longitudinally offset relative to the second groove; and an explosive device disposed between said first and second structural members for severing said first and second slots along said first and second non-coplanar fracture planes, respectively; In the first and second structural members, said first and second non-coplanar fracture surfaces each respectively define a separation region of said first and second structural members. 2. A separation system as recited in claim 1, wherein said first and second structural members each include inner and outer surfaces, said inner surfaces adapted to engage said explosive assembly, wherein said First and second grooves are provided on one of the inner and outer surfaces of the first and second structural members. 3. A separation system as recited in claim 1, wherein said explosive assembly defines at least first and second cut planes, wherein said first groove on said first structural member extends along said first cut plane. The second groove on the second structural member is arranged along the second cut surface. 4. A separation system as claimed in claim 3, wherein said first cut plane is parallel to said second cut plane. 5. A separation system as recited in claim 3, wherein said first and second cut planes are substantially coplanar with said first and second fracture planes, respectively. 6. A separation system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said explosive assembly comprises an explosive contained in an expandable tube, wherein said expandable tube is connected to said first section by a tube restraint strap and at least one of the second section. 7. A system for separating first and second sections comprising: first and second structural members connected to at least the first and second sections, the first structural member being displaced apart from the second structural member and interconnected; an explosion assembly disposed between the blast-facing faces of said first and second structural members for breaking at least one of said first and second structural members; and first and second slots in said first and second structural members, respectively, said first slot defining a first fracture surface and longitudinally offset relative to a second slot defined with said second slot A different and non-coplanar second fracture surface from the first fracture surface, the first and second fracture surfaces each defining a separation region of the first and second structural members, wherein the first and One of the second grooves is provided on the explosion-facing surface of one of the first and second structural members, and the other of the first and second grooves is provided on the first on the non-explosive facing surface of the other of the first and second structural members. 8. A separation system as claimed in claim 7, wherein said first groove on said first structural member is provided on said blast facing surface of said first structural member, at said first structural member The second slot on the second structural member is disposed on the non-explosive facing surface of the second structural member. 9. A separation system as recited in claim 7, wherein said first groove is substantially coplanar with a first tangent plane defined by said first end portion of said explosive assembly in an unexpanded state. 10. A separation system as recited in claim 7, wherein said second groove is substantially in common with a central portion of said explosive assembly and a second end portion of said explosive assembly in an unexpanded state. noodle. 11. A separation system as claimed in claim 7, further comprising: Reinforcing bending means provided on at least one first portion of at least one of said first and second structural members for articulating said at least one first portion about said first portion of at least one of said first and second structural members. One and two structural members. 12. A separation system as claimed in claim 11, wherein said stiffening bending means comprises a stiffening portion and at least a first relief portion on said first portion of at least one of said first and second structural members. In one of them, one of the reinforcing portion and the first relief portion is displaced from at least one of the first and second slots. 13. A separation system as claimed in claim 7, further comprising: Sliding surface means coupled to at least one of said first and second structural members for guiding one of said first and second sections away from the other of said sections. 14. A separation system as claimed in claim 13, wherein said sliding surface means comprises at least one first slide connected to one of the first and second sections, said first slide Oriented within a range of about 1° to about 90° relative to at least one of said first and second structural members. 15. A separation system as claimed in claim 13, wherein said sliding surface means comprises first and second sliding pads each having opposing surfaces which are in sliding engagement with each other, said first and second Sliding backing plates are respectively interconnected with said first and second sections. 16. A separation system as claimed in claim 13, wherein said sliding surface means comprises at least one first slide connected to at least one of said first and second segments, wherein said first slide The piece is coplanar with the groove. 17. A system for separating first and second sections comprising: first and second structural members connectable to at least said first and second sections, said first structural member being displaced apart from said second structural member and interconnected; an explosive assembly disposed between said first and second structural members for breaking at least one of said first and second structural members; and sliding surface means coupled to at least one of said first and second structural members for guiding at least initially one of said first and second segments away therefrom along a passage defined by said sliding surface means Another section, wherein said sliding surface means includes first and second sliding backing plates with opposing surfaces for sliding engagement therebetween, said first and second backing plates interconnecting the first and second sections, respectively . 18. A separation system as claimed in claim 17, wherein said sliding surface means comprises at least one first slide connected to one of said first and second sections, said first slide oriented within a range of about 1° to about 90° relative to at least one of the first and second structural members. 19. A separation system as claimed in claim 17, wherein said sliding surface means comprises at least one first slide connected to one of said first and second sections, said first slide oriented at about 90° relative to at least one of the first and second structural members. 20. A separation system as claimed in claim 17, wherein said sliding surface means comprises first and second sliding pads each having opposing surfaces for sliding engagement with each other, said first and second Sliding backing plates are respectively interconnected with said first and second sections. 21. A separation system as claimed in claim 17, further comprising: first and second slots respectively disposed on said first and second structural members, wherein said first and second structural members are respectively at said first and second slots when said explosive assembly is ignited destroy. 22. A separation system as claimed in claim 21, wherein said sliding surface means comprises at least one first slide connected to one of said first and second sections, wherein said first slide The member is aligned with at least the first slot. 23. A separation system as claimed in claim 21, wherein said first and second grooves on said first and second structures are coplanar, and wherein said sliding means comprises a At least one first slide on at least one of the first and second sections, said slide being aligned with said first and second slots. 24. A separation system as claimed in claim 21, wherein said first and second slots on said first and second structural members are offset relative to each other, wherein said sliding means comprises a At least one first slide on at least one of said first and second sections, said slide being aligned with one of said first and second slots. 25. A separation system as claimed in claim 17, further comprising: Reinforced bending means provided on at least one first portion of at least one of said first and second structural members for hinged said at least one of said first and second structural members about said first portion A first and second structural member. 26. A separation system as claimed in claim 25, wherein said stiffening bending means comprises a stiffening portion and at least a first relief portion on said first portion of at least one of said first and second structural members. In one of them, at least a part of said stiffened bending means is aligned with said sliding surface means.

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