Transmission Efficiency of a MEMS Laser Fuze for Safety and Arming

Owing to their superior performance in countering electromagnetic interference on the battlefield, laser fuzes have become a promising candidate for application in munition systems. However, as the short-pulse laser is activated by an electrical signal, the possibility of accidental emissions caused by logic device failure cannot be ruled out, making it vulnerable under the effects of strong electromagnetic coupling. Integrating an encrypted, MEMS-based Safety and Arming Device (SAD) into the energy channel to control the propagation of short-pulse lasers can significantly enhance the safety level of munition systems. In the present work, the effect of MEMS SAD integration on laser propagation is investigated. The results demonstrate that the insertion of a MEMS SAD does not introduce significant attenuation of short-pulse laser propagation. A firing test is conducted using the laser-driven flyer detonator to verify the safety, charging mechanism, and function to provide a comprehensive characterization of the laser fuze. To guarantee the initiation of insensitive explosives, the coupling efficiency and laser transmission energy density of multi-mode quartz fibers are studied.