Impact switch for guided projectiles

An impact switch for closing an electrical firing circuit of a guided projectile, comprising:

• an annular base member formed of a non-metallic, non-conducting material fixedly secured in the forward end of the guided projectile;
• an electrically-conductive film coating said annular base member over a substantial portion thereof with a portion of said film adapted for communication with the electrical firing circuit of said guided projectile;
• said substantial portion of said film having an electrical discontinuity at at least one location on said annular base member to prevent eddy currents from being induced therein;
• an annular crushable member formed of a non-metallic, non-conducting material mounted concentrically of, and in close proximity to, said annular base member;
• and
• an electrically-conductive film coating said annular crushable member over a substantial portion thereof with a portion of said film adapted for communication with the electrical firing circuit of said guided projectile;
• said substantial portion of said film having an electrical discontinuity at one location on said annular crushable member to prevent eddy currents from being induced therein;
• whereby upon impact of said guided projectile with a target at an angle of incidence from 0.degree. to approximately 70.degree. said annular crushable member coated with said electrically-conductive film will be deformed into contact at at least one point with said electrically-conductive film of said annular base member to close the firing circuit of said guided projectile generating an electric current which detonates an explosive in said guided projectile.