PYROTECHNIC OUTSIDE WARNING SYSTEM
Abstract
The POWS was conceived as a complement to the National Emergency Alarm Repeater System (NEARS), which will provide indoor warning. The POWS is designed to meet the need for a mass, low-cost outdoor alert system which can provide instant audible and visual warning, day or night. The POWS is a compact, lightweight package containing two warning rockets and a special control unit. Each rocket is sealed in a metal tube. The control unit is sealed in a separate enclosure between the tubes. These POWS units can be mounted on any poles or buildings having access to ordinary 60-cycle power. The control unit constantly monitors the power line to detect the presence of a NEAR signal. Upon receiving this signal, the control unit will fire one rocket, sequence to the second and await another signal. The POWS components are housed within the rocket vehicle casing, and are ejected when the rocket vehicle reaches its terminal altitude. The warning components are an explosive charge, a red smoke cloud, and an intense red flare. The flare and all hardware are lowered by parachute. The requirements for the POWS are extremely rigorous. The units must withstand temperatures ranging from -65 degrees to 200 degrees F. for a minimum of ten years and remain operable without maintenance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1963
- Accession Number
- AD0403367