Raytheon Company

Ryan A Egbert

Christopher L Hernandez

Erik T Dale

Embodiments of a spring clip retention system are provided for securing a generally cylindrical component, as are embodiments of a guided munition including a spring clip retention system. In one embodiment, the spring clip retention system includes a captive feature and a spring clip. The captive feature includes opposing ledges and a channel formed beneath and partially enclosed by the opposing ledges. The spring clip includes opposing retainer arms and a base portion, which extends between the opposing retainer arms and which is received within the channel. The spring clip deflects outward when the component is inserted between the opposing retainer arms. The base portion abuts the undersides of the opposing ledges when the spring clip is deflected outward by insertion of the component to prevent disengagement of the base portion from the captive feature in a direction substantially normal to the longitudinal axis of the channel.

Spring clip retention systems suitable for usage within vehicles and guided munitions

A system for retaining an optical element with a card assembly and heat sink is provided. The retaining system includes an optical element fastener and a retainer member. The optical element fastener is configured to hold the optical element to the heat sink. The retaining member is configured to hold the card assembly to the heat sink, and also serves to make the optical element fastener captive. In one embodiment, the retaining member includes a ridge for holding the card assembly to the heat sink. The top end of the retainer member may also include one or more recessed slots for tool engagement to facilitate fastening of the retainer member. In one embodiment, the retaining member is threaded at the bottom end to fasten the retaining member to the heat sink. Also, in one embodiment the retaining member includes an axial opening used to access the optical element fastener.

Optical element retaining system for sensor systems

Some embodiments pertain to a projectile that includes a frame and a first gimbal that is rotatably supported by the frame. The projectile further includes a second gimbal that is rotatably supported by the first gimbal. A sensor is supported by the second gimbal such that an adjustment mechanism is able to maneuver the first and second gimbals to adjust the position of the sensor. The projectile further includes a stop that is attached to the frame. The stop may be a cup that surrounds a bottom portion of the sensor. The cup provides a barrier to prevent the adjustment mechanism from maneuvering the sensor outside a designated area.

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Tucson, AZ, United States of America

Ryan A Egbert