Importance

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Abstract

A fluid control apparatus for selectively providing a stored fluid to a working environment for the fluid includes a container for storing the fluid. The container is arranged as a metal thimble with longitudinal score lines evenly spaced about its diameter. A weight is attached to one end of the thimble to provide a force on the thimble in a longitudinal direction as a result of a corresponding acceleration of the thimble. The scoring lines produce stress concentrations and serve to weaken the thimble in its radial direction. The longitudinal force produced by the weight during acceleration results in a collapse of the thimble and a rupture of the walls of the thimble along the score lines to produce exit orifices for the fluid stored in the thimble. In one embodiment of the present invention, the fluid is an electrolyte, and the fluid control apparatus is used in a reserve activated battery housing to store the electrolyte until the acceleration induced collapse of the thimble. The electrolyte is delivered from the ruptured thimble to adjacent electrodes to activate the battery.

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First Claim