EP0293273B1 - Smoke-producing projectile and ammunition having such a projectile - Google Patents

Smoke-producing projectile and ammunition having such a projectile Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0293273B1
EP0293273B1 EP88400567A EP88400567A EP0293273B1 EP 0293273 B1 EP0293273 B1 EP 0293273B1 EP 88400567 A EP88400567 A EP 88400567A EP 88400567 A EP88400567 A EP 88400567A EP 0293273 B1 EP0293273 B1 EP 0293273B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
charge
smoke
projectile
powder charge
pyrotechnic composition
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP88400567A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0293273A1 (en
Inventor
Jean Marc Puech
Daniel Larmignat
Jean-Pierre Lepezennec
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Giat Industries SA
Etienne LaCroix Tous Artifices SA
Original Assignee
Giat Industries SA
Etienne LaCroix Tous Artifices SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Giat Industries SA, Etienne LaCroix Tous Artifices SA filed Critical Giat Industries SA
Priority to AT88400567T priority Critical patent/ATE80221T1/en
Publication of EP0293273A1 publication Critical patent/EP0293273A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0293273B1 publication Critical patent/EP0293273B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41WEAPONS
    • F41HARMOUR; ARMOURED TURRETS; ARMOURED OR ARMED VEHICLES; MEANS OF ATTACK OR DEFENCE, e.g. CAMOUFLAGE, IN GENERAL
    • F41H9/00Equipment for attack or defence by spreading flame, gas or smoke or leurres; Chemical warfare equipment
    • F41H9/06Apparatus for generating artificial fog or smoke screens
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42BEXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
    • F42B12/00Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material
    • F42B12/02Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect
    • F42B12/36Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect for dispensing materials; for producing chemical or physical reaction; for signalling ; for transmitting information
    • F42B12/46Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect for dispensing materials; for producing chemical or physical reaction; for signalling ; for transmitting information for dispensing gases, vapours, powders or chemically-reactive substances
    • F42B12/48Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect for dispensing materials; for producing chemical or physical reaction; for signalling ; for transmitting information for dispensing gases, vapours, powders or chemically-reactive substances smoke-producing, e.g. infrared clouds

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to smoke projectiles intended for the protection by masking of land vehicles, in particular tanks.
  • EP-A-0 108 939 (FEISTEL) has also proposed a projectile of the type comprising at least one element 1 of pyrotechnic composition capable of generating smoke during its combustion, and a charge of powder 2 absorbing contrast in the infrared domain.
  • document EP-A-0 108 939 proposes means making it possible to ensure an almost simultaneous deployment of the smoke composition and of the powder charge, so that the latter benefits from the ascending hot air currents generated by the smoke composition, in order to prolong over time the state of suspension of the powder particles. This is expressed on page 2, lines 6 to 16 of document EP-A-0 108 939.
  • the elements of smoke-producing pyrotechnic composition 1 are placed behind a charge of powder 2.
  • the elements of smoke-producing pyrotechnic composition 1 are associated to a load 3 which ensures a segmentation of the elements 1 as illustrated in FIGS. 2C and 2D.
  • the powder charge 2 is associated with a pyrotechnic charge 4. This being placed downstream of the powder charge 3 associated with the elements 1, the deployment of the powder charge 2 can only be ensured after segmentation and dispersion of the elements of smoke pyrotechnic composition. This leads to a very slow implementation of masking.
  • the powder charge 2 is on the contrary placed behind the elements of smoke-producing pyrotechnic composition 1.
  • the explosion of the pyrotechnic charge 4 associated with the charge of powder 2 accelerates the elements of pyrotechnic composition. This leads to a very distant implementation of the smoke pyrotechnic composition.
  • the document FR-A-2 343 989 relates to a device for launching infrared decoys.
  • the infrared decoy launching projectile comprises a pyrotechnic charge burning in the infrared enclosed in a case constituted by a tubular envelope which is closed at its opposite ends by two removable plugs connected to each other by a mechanical connection of limited resistance able to be broken under the action of an associated ignition device.
  • Document FR-A-2 466 743 describes a smoke shell for the emission of smoke by fast-burning and slow-burning charges comprising an upper element with rapid combustion and instantaneous smoke generation with an ignition / burst charge and a separate ejection charge and a lower element giving off slow combustion smoke in a steel box with a separate ejection charge and a common ignition charging means.
  • the present invention now aims to provide a new smoke projectile adapted to deliver very rapid protection following the detection of a threat, while ensuring protection extended over time.
  • the present invention more specifically aims to provide a new smoke projectile adapted to deliver almost instantaneous protection, that is to say in less than a second, while ensuring masking of the vehicle for a period of time reaching 30 to 60 seconds.
  • the smoke pyrotechnic composition can be ejected at high speed in order to quickly take over the powder charge to ensure continuous masking of the vehicle to be protected, while being implemented at a point relatively close to the vehicle for provide an effective masking effect.
  • the powder charge is formed from brass powder, the particle size of which is chosen to be contrast absorbing in the infrared range.
  • the explosive cane is centered on the axis of the projectile, the powder charge surrounding the cane over its entire periphery and covering the front end of this cane, so that the explosive cane deploys the powder charge in the form of a full disc.
  • a separation charge is preferably interposed between the powder charge and the jar of smoke-producing pyrotechnic composition.
  • the jar of smoke-producing pyrotechnic composition is advantageously connected to a case which houses the powder charge by connecting means adapted to be broken when the separation charge is ignited.
  • connecting means are preferably chosen from the group comprising: a heat-shrinkable envelope sleeve, a connecting member made of epoxy glue, a connecting member made of adhesive tape, or else a central rod.
  • the latter is preferably formed of a sleeve provided with a plurality of oblong slots. As will be discussed in more detail below, such oblong slots allow in particular the transmission of fire to the smoke pyrotechnic composition.
  • the smoke pyrotechnic composition pot is divided into different elements.
  • the projectile comprises a trajectory delay ignited during the ejection of the projectile, a pyrotechnic relay associated with the trajectory delay, a separation charge inserted between the powder charge and the pot of smoke pyrotechnic composition, an initiating charge associated with the explosive cane and a safety drawer interposed on fire passages connecting the relay to the separation charge and the initiating charge, the safety drawer being movable between a safety position, during storage, in which it closes the fire passages, and a release position, in which, after ejection, it releases the fire passages.
  • the present invention also relates to an ammunition intended for the protection by masking of vehicles, comprising in a shell, a projectile of the aforementioned type and a pyrotechnic charge disposed in the bottom of the shell for the ejection of the projectile.
  • This munition 10 includes a socket 12 fixed on a base 20 which houses an impeller.
  • the socket 12 itself houses a projectile 100 which, for the most part, comprises from front to rear, in the direction of movement, a powder charge 110 associated with an explosive cane 112 and a pot of pyrotechnic composition smoke smoke distributed in two element 150, 152 according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, without this number being able to be considered as limiting.
  • the longitudinal axis of the ammunition 10 and of the projectile 100 has been referenced 14.
  • This axis 14 corresponds essentially to an axis of symmetry.
  • the sleeve 12 is formed of a cylindrical sleeve centered on the axis 14. It is provided at its rear end with an annular flange 16 extending radially with respect to the axis 14 and in the direction thereof.
  • the sleeve 12 is fixed to the base 20 by means of this collar 16.
  • the collar 16 is pinched between an annular rib 22, integral with the external periphery 24 of the base 20, and a threaded ring 26 engaged at the inside the sleeve 12 and engaging with a threaded barrel 28 integral with the base 20.
  • the threaded ring 26 and the annular rib 22 are coaxial with the axis 14.
  • the base 20 carries a lug 30 which extends radially with respect to the longitudinal axis 14. This lug allows the socket to be immobilized in a mortar using a bayonet mounting, in a conventional manner in itself.
  • the base 20 supports at its front end a cup 32.
  • This cup 32 has an axial through passage 34 which receives an electrically controlled igniter 36.
  • the two wires 38, 40 intended to supply the igniter 36 are connected one to a rivet 42, the other to a contact pad 44.
  • the base 20 is made of an electrically conductive material.
  • the rivet 42 is fixed to the base 20 in order to provide an electrical connection between the supply wire 38 and the base 20.
  • the contact pad 44 is engaged in a bore passing through the base of the base 20, coaxially with the longitudinal axis 14. Thus, the contact pad 44 is accessible at the rear of the ammunition.
  • the contact pad 44 is isolated from the base 20 by an electrically insulating sheath 46.
  • the cup 32 defines on its front surface a chamber which receives an ejection charge 48, for example based on black powder.
  • a piston 50 is interposed between the base 20 housing the impeller which has just been described and the rear end of the projectile 100.
  • the piston 50 is formed by a washer which extends transversely to the longitudinal axis 14.
  • the washer 50 is provided with a central bore 52.
  • the front end of the sleeve 12 is closed during storage by a cap 60.
  • the cap 60 is immobilized on the sleeve 12 using at least one shearable pin 62 which extends radially relative to the longitudinal axis 14.
  • FIG. 1 two elements 152, 150 of the pot of smoke pyrotechnic composition stacked axially from rear to front in the projectile 100.
  • the elements 152, 150 are cylindrical of revolution around the longitudinal axis 14. It are wrapped in respective cases 153, 151.
  • the elements 150 and 152 define a central free channel 160 centered on the longitudinal axis 14 and aligned with the bore 52 formed in the washer 50.
  • a secondary base 120 centered on the axis 14 is interposed between the pot of smoke pyrotechnic composition 150, 152 and the powder charge 110.
  • the secondary base 120 has a central channel 122 centered on the axis 14 which houses the rear forward a trajectory delay 124 and a pyrotechnic relay 126.
  • the trajectory delay 124 is engaged in the front end of the channel 160.
  • the powder charge 110 and the associated explosive cane 112 are housed in a case 114.
  • This case 114 comprises a cylindrical wall 115 centered on the axis 14, integral with a part of a transverse wall before obturation 116.
  • the rear end of the case 114 is closed by a disc 118.
  • An O-ring seal is interposed between the disc 118 and the cylindrical wall 115 of the case 114.
  • the explosive cane 112 is formed by a cylindrical finger centered on the axis 14.
  • the explosive cane 112 is surrounded by an envelope 111.
  • the explosive cane 112 is supported by the disc 118.
  • the powder charge 110 surrounds the explosive cane 112 over its entire periphery and, moreover, covers the front end of this cane.
  • the explosive cane 112 deploys the powder charge 110 in the form of a solid disc.
  • the central part of this disc is generated by the portion of the powder charge placed in front of the explosive cane 112.
  • the edge of the disc is generated by the portion of the powder charge 110 which surrounds the explosive cane 112.
  • a chamber 140 centered on the longitudinal axis 14 is also provided between the secondary base 120 and the disc 118.
  • This chamber 140 houses from the rear towards the front a safety drawer 142 and an initiating charge 144.
  • the initiating charge 144 is placed behind the explosive cane 112 and communicates with it.
  • the safety drawer 142 is adapted to be movable between a safety position, which corresponds to the storage position, in which it closes the fire passages, and a release position, obtained after ejection of the projectile 100 from the case 12 , in which the drawer 142 frees the fire passage connecting the relay 126 and the initiating charge 144.
  • the drawer 142 is slidably guided between the initiating charge 144 and the secondary base 120 in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis 14.
  • the safety drawer 142 is biased towards the release position by elastic means not illustrated on the figures to simplify the illustration.
  • the safety drawer 142 has a through passage which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis 14.
  • the through passage formed in the safety drawer 142 is aligned with the fire passage connecting the relay 126 to the initiating charge 144 only when the drawer 142 is moved to the release position, that is to say after the projectile 100 has been ejected from the case 12.
  • Such a safety drawer 142 can for example be similar to the drawer illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 of the French patent applications published under the numbers 2 294 420 and 2 293 872.
  • the powder charge 110 is advantageously composed of metal particles whose particle size is chosen to be absorbent of contrast in the infrared range.
  • metal particles whose particle size is chosen to be absorbent of contrast in the infrared range.
  • it is brass powder.
  • the jar of smoke-producing pyrotechnic composition and more precisely the cases 151, 153 housing the latter, is (are) connected to the means housing the powder charge 110 by means of link adapted to be broken when the cane 112 explodes or when the firing of a separation charge inserted between the powder charge 110 and the jar of smoke pyrotechnic composition 150, 152.
  • connecting means can take many forms. It can be a sleeve of heat-shrinkable envelope, a connecting member made of epoxy adhesive, a connecting member made of adhesive tape or else a central rod engaged in the channel 160.
  • FIG. 2 there is a rod 170 engaged in the channel 160 passing through the pots of smoke pyrotechnic composition 150, 152.
  • the central rod 170 is formed of a sleeve provided with a plurality of oblong slots 172.
  • the rear end of the rod 170 receives an annular shim 174 provided with a flared head 176 which rests against the ejection piston 50.
  • the front end of the rod 170 is fixed to the secondary base 120.
  • the separation charge 145 is more precisely placed in an annular chamber 146 formed on the rear surface of the secondary base 120.
  • This chamber 146 communicates via channels 147 with the charge initiating 144.
  • the channels 147 extend parallel to the longitudinal axis 14.
  • the passages 147 are separated from the relay 126.
  • the channels 147 communicate with the relay 126.
  • the housing 146 which receives the separation charge 145 is closed by a sealing veil 148 which extends transversely to the longitudinal axis 14 and avoids any direct fire transmission from main channel 160 to separation charge 145.
  • the ammunition 10 is assembled by bayonet mounting using the lug 30 in a launching mortar, in a conventional manner per se.
  • the gases developed by the ejection charge 48 urge the piston 50 and the projectile 100 towards the front of the sleeve 12.
  • the force transmitted to the cap 60 causes the pin 62 to shear and produces the ejection of the projectile 100.
  • the ejection gases which pass through the bore 52 formed in the piston 50 and / or the shim 174, spread in the channel 160.
  • the fire is transmitted through the central corridor 160 (and via the oblong lights 172) to the two smoke underloads 150, 152 which take their speed, and at the delay of trajectory 124.
  • the safety drawer 142 is moved to the release position.
  • the relay 126 is ignited and this transmits the fire to the initiating charge 144 and to the separation charge 145.
  • the separation charge ensures the separation of the pot of smoke pyrotechnic composition 150, 152 and the powder charge 110, by rupture of the means initially connecting these (for example by rupture of the rod 160).
  • the initiating charge 144 transmits the fire to the rod 112 which, when it explodes, deploys the powder 110 according to a disc with an axis centered on the trajectory.
  • the powder 110 can for example be formed from metallic particles of brass.
  • the explosion of the cane 112 slows the movement of the smoke charges 150, 152 to ensure that they are put into service in a position relatively close to the launch point, despite a high ejection speed of the smoke charges 150, 152.
  • the smoke charges 150, 152 are used on the ground. These smoke charges 150, 152, during their combustion, generate an opaque infrared cloud.
  • the trajectory delay 124 is adapted to ensure almost instantaneous deployment of the powder charge 110, that is to say in less than a second from the initiation of the firing, and preferably from the '' from 0.3 to 0.4 seconds after this initialization.
  • the place of deployment of the powder charge 110 that is to say the distance separating the point of deposition from the launch point, is determined on the one hand by the speed of ejection, on the other hand by time trajectory.
  • the ejection charge 48 and the trajectory delay 124 are adapted to ensure the deployment of the powder charge 110 at a distance of the order of ten meters from the launch point.
  • the ejection charge 48 and the explosive cane 112 which ensures the braking effect on the smoke charge 150, 152 are preferably adapted to ensure the fall of the smoke charges 150, 152 at about 30 or 40 meters from the point launch.
  • These smoke charges 150, 152 are adapted to be brought into operation approximately ten seconds after the ignition of the ejection charge 48, and to generate a thick cloud of smoke for approximately 30 to 60 seconds.
  • a plurality of munitions are deployed simultaneously in the direction of the threat.
  • This ammunition is ejected using a plurality of mortars, having evenly spaced azimuths in order to deploy a masking cloud of significant horizontal extent between the launch point (vehicle to be protected) and the threat detected.
  • FIG. 3 Schematically illustrated in Figure 3 a vehicle to be protected, referenced V, and the masking obtained by ejection of 5 projectiles according to the invention.
  • the projectiles are ejected with a tight shot with a low trajectory, for example at 11 ° from the horizontal, so that the axis of the clouds of particles resulting from the charges of powder 110 is almost horizontal.
  • the clouds of metallic particles M are deployed approximately 10 meters from the vehicle V to be protected, while the smoke clouds F are generated approximately 30 to 40 meters from the vehicle V.
  • the explosive cane 112 can be adapted to generate a cloud of metallic particles M having a diameter of the order of 7 meters and a thickness of the order of 1 to 2 meters.
  • the azimuths of the various mortars receiving a munition in accordance with the present invention are adapted to ensure recovery of both the clouds of metallic particles M and the smoke clouds F, to generate a continuous masking screen.
  • the vertical mean plane defined by the metallic particle clouds M and the smoke clouds F extends perpendicularly to a line connecting the vehicle V to be protected and the threat detected.
  • the ammunition 10 according to the invention are deployed in the direction of the threat by burst of 6 at a total opening angle of 120 °.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Respiratory Apparatuses And Protective Means (AREA)
  • Agricultural Chemicals And Associated Chemicals (AREA)
  • Air Bags (AREA)
  • Aiming, Guidance, Guns With A Light Source, Armor, Camouflage, And Targets (AREA)
  • Manufacturing Of Micro-Capsules (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a smoke-generating projectile of the type comprising at least one pot of pyrotechnic composition (150, 152) capable of generating smoke during its combustion. According to the invention, the projectile comprises, furthermore, in front of the smoke-generating pyrotechnic composition pot in the direction of ejection, a powder charge (110) and an explosive striker (112) capable of deploying the powder charge (110) and of braking the composition pot (150, 152). <IMAGE>

Description

La présente invention concerne les projectiles fumigènes destinés à la protection par masquage de véhicules terrestres, en particulier de chars.The present invention relates to smoke projectiles intended for the protection by masking of land vehicles, in particular tanks.

On a déjà proposé de nombreux projectiles fumigènes, du type comprenant au moins un pot de composition pyrotechnique apte à générer de la fumée lors de sa combustion, pour la protection de véhicules terrestres.Many smoke projectiles have already been proposed, of the type comprising at least one pot of pyrotechnic composition capable of generating smoke during its combustion, for the protection of land vehicles.

Néanmoins, les projectiles fumigènes jusqu'ici proposés ne donnent pas entière satisfaction.However, the smoke projectiles hitherto proposed are not entirely satisfactory.

On a également proposé dans le document EP-A-0 108 939 (FEISTEL) un projectile du type comprenant au moins un élément 1 de composition pyrotechnique apte à générer de la fumée lors de sa combustion, et une charge de poudre 2 absorbeuse de contraste dans le domaine infrarouge. EP-A-0 108 939 (FEISTEL) has also proposed a projectile of the type comprising at least one element 1 of pyrotechnic composition capable of generating smoke during its combustion, and a charge of powder 2 absorbing contrast in the infrared domain.

Plus précisément, le document EP-A-0 108 939 propose des moyens permettant d'assurer un déploiement quasi-simultané de la composition fumigène et de la charge de poudre, de telle sorte que cette dernière bénéficie des courants d'air chaud ascendants générés par la composition fumigène, afin de prolonger dans le temps l'état de suspension des particules de poudre. Cela est exprimé page 2, lignes 6 à 16 du document EP-A-0 108 939. More specifically, document EP-A-0 108 939 proposes means making it possible to ensure an almost simultaneous deployment of the smoke composition and of the powder charge, so that the latter benefits from the ascending hot air currents generated by the smoke composition, in order to prolong over time the state of suspension of the powder particles. This is expressed on page 2, lines 6 to 16 of document EP-A-0 108 939.

Plus précisément encore, le document EP-A-0 108 939 évoque deux modes de réalisation.More precisely still, the document EP-A-0 108 939 mentions two embodiments.

Selon le premier mode de réalisation correspondant au préambule de la revendication 1 et illustré sur la figure 1, les éléments de composition pyrotechnique fumigène 1 sont placés arrière d'une charge de poudre 2. De plus, les éléments de composition pyrotechnique fumigène 1 sont associés à une charge 3 qui assure une segmentation des éléments 1 comme illustré sur les figures 2C et 2D. La charge de poudre 2 est associée à une charge pyrotechnique 4. Celle-ci étant placée en aval de la charge de poudre 3 associée aux éléments 1, le déploiement de la charge de poudre 2 ne peut être assuré qu'après segmentation et dispersion des éléments de composition pyrotechnique fumigène. Cela conduit à une mise en oeuvre très lente du masquage.According to the first embodiment corresponding to the preamble of claim 1 and illustrated in FIG. 1, the elements of smoke-producing pyrotechnic composition 1 are placed behind a charge of powder 2. In addition, the elements of smoke-producing pyrotechnic composition 1 are associated to a load 3 which ensures a segmentation of the elements 1 as illustrated in FIGS. 2C and 2D. The powder charge 2 is associated with a pyrotechnic charge 4. This being placed downstream of the powder charge 3 associated with the elements 1, the deployment of the powder charge 2 can only be ensured after segmentation and dispersion of the elements of smoke pyrotechnic composition. This leads to a very slow implementation of masking.

Selon le second mode de réalisation illustré sur les figures 4 et 5, la charge de poudre 2 est au contraire placée en arrière des éléments de composition pyrotechnique fumigène 1. Dans ce cas, l'explosion de la charge pyrotechnique 4 associée à la charge de poudre 2 accélère les éléments de composition pyrotechnique. Cela conduit à une mise en oeuvre très éloignée de la composition pyrotechnique fumigène.According to the second embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the powder charge 2 is on the contrary placed behind the elements of smoke-producing pyrotechnic composition 1. In this case, the explosion of the pyrotechnic charge 4 associated with the charge of powder 2 accelerates the elements of pyrotechnic composition. This leads to a very distant implementation of the smoke pyrotechnic composition.

Le document FR-A-2 343 989 concerne un dispositif de lancement de leurres infrarouges. Selon le document FR-A-2 343 989, le projectile de lancement de leurre infrarouge comprend une charge pyrotechnique brûlant dans l'infrarouge enfermée dans un étui constitué par une enveloppe tubulaire qui est fermée à ses extrémités opposées par deux bouchons amovibles reliés entre eux par une liaison mécanique de résistance limitée apte à être brisée sous l'action d'un dispositif d'allumage associé.The document FR-A-2 343 989 relates to a device for launching infrared decoys. According to document FR-A-2 343 989, the infrared decoy launching projectile comprises a pyrotechnic charge burning in the infrared enclosed in a case constituted by a tubular envelope which is closed at its opposite ends by two removable plugs connected to each other by a mechanical connection of limited resistance able to be broken under the action of an associated ignition device.

Le document FR-A-2 466 743 décrit un obus fumigène pour l'émission de fumée par des charges à combustion rapide et à combustion lente comprenant un élément supérieur à combustion rapide et dégagement instantané de fumée avec une charge d'ignition/éclatement et une charge séparée d'éjection et un élément inférieur dégageant de la fumée à combustion lente dans une boîte en acier avec une charge d'éjection séparée et un moyen de charge d'ignition commun.Document FR-A-2 466 743 describes a smoke shell for the emission of smoke by fast-burning and slow-burning charges comprising an upper element with rapid combustion and instantaneous smoke generation with an ignition / burst charge and a separate ejection charge and a lower element giving off slow combustion smoke in a steel box with a separate ejection charge and a common ignition charging means.

Les dispositifs décrits dans les documents précités ne permettent pas un masquage totalement satisfaisant.The devices described in the aforementioned documents do not allow completely satisfactory masking.

La présente invention a maintenant pour but de proposer un nouveau projectile fumigène adapté pour délivrer une protection très rapide suite à la détection d'une menace, tout en assurant une protection prolongée dans le temps.The present invention now aims to provide a new smoke projectile adapted to deliver very rapid protection following the detection of a threat, while ensuring protection extended over time.

La présente invention a plus précisément pour but de proposer un nouveau projectile fumigène adapté pour délivrer une protection quasi instantanée, c'est-à-dire en moins d'une seconde, tout en assurant un masquage du véhicule pendant une durée atteignant 30 à 60 secondes.The present invention more specifically aims to provide a new smoke projectile adapted to deliver almost instantaneous protection, that is to say in less than a second, while ensuring masking of the vehicle for a period of time reaching 30 to 60 seconds.

Ce but est atteint selon la présente invention, à l'aide d'un projectile fumigène du type précité et connu en soi comprenant au moins un pot de composition pyrotechnique apte à générer de la fumée lors de sa combustion, et une charge de poudre absorbeuse de contraste dans le domaine infrarouge, dans lequel la charge de poudre est placée en avant du pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène, dans le sens d'éjection, et une canne explosive est associée à la charge de poudre pour déployer celle-ci, caractérisé par le fait que :

  • le pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène possède un canal longitudinal pour la transmission de feu à la canne explosive, de telle sorte que celle-ci explose rapidement sur trajectoire après lancement du projectile afin, d'une part, d'assurer un déploiement quasi-instantané de la charge de poudre, d'autre part, de freiner le pot de composition pyrotechnique avant toute dispersion de celui-ci."
This object is achieved according to the present invention, using a smoke projectile of the aforementioned type and known per se comprising at least one pot of pyrotechnic composition capable of generating smoke during its combustion, and a charge of absorbent powder. contrast in the infrared range, in which the powder charge is placed in front of the smoke pyrotechnic composition pot, in the direction of ejection, and an explosive cane is associated with the powder charge to deploy it, characterized by the fact that :
  • the smoke pyrotechnic composition pot has a longitudinal channel for the transmission of fire to the explosive device, so that it explodes rapidly on the trajectory after launching the projectile in order, on the one hand, to ensure an almost instantaneous deployment of the powder charge, on the other hand, of slowing down the pot of pyrotechnic composition before any dispersion thereof. "

Grâce à une telle structure, on obtient d'une part, un déploiement rapide de la charge de poudre, d'où un premier effet de masquage quasi instantané. D'autre part, grâce à la structure proposée dans le cadre présente invention, le pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène peut être éjecté à vitesse élevée afin de prendre rapidement la relève de la charge de poudre pour assurer un masquage continu du véhicule à protéger, tout en étant mis en oeuvre en un point relativement proche du véhicule pour assurer un effet de masquage efficace.Thanks to such a structure, on the one hand, rapid deployment of the powder charge is obtained, hence a first almost instantaneous masking effect. On the other hand, thanks to the structure proposed in the framework present invention, the smoke pyrotechnic composition can be ejected at high speed in order to quickly take over the powder charge to ensure continuous masking of the vehicle to be protected, while being implemented at a point relatively close to the vehicle for provide an effective masking effect.

De préférence, selon la présente invention, la charge de poudre est formée de poudre de laiton dont la granulométrie est choisie pour être absorbeuse de contraste dans le domaine infrarouge.Preferably, according to the present invention, the powder charge is formed from brass powder, the particle size of which is chosen to be contrast absorbing in the infrared range.

Selon une caractéristique avantageuse de la présente invention, la canne explosive est centrée sur l'axe du projectile, la charge de poudre entourant la canne sur toute sa périphérie et recouvrant l'extrémité avant de cette canne, de telle sorte que la canne explosive déploie la charge de poudre sous forme d'un disque plein.According to an advantageous characteristic of the present invention, the explosive cane is centered on the axis of the projectile, the powder charge surrounding the cane over its entire periphery and covering the front end of this cane, so that the explosive cane deploys the powder charge in the form of a full disc.

Une charge de séparation est de préférence intercalée entre la charge de poudre et le pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène.A separation charge is preferably interposed between the powder charge and the jar of smoke-producing pyrotechnic composition.

Selon l'invention, le pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène est avantageusement relié à un étui qui loge la charge de poudre par des moyens de liaison adaptés pour être rompus lors de la mise à feu de la charge de séparation. De tels moyens de liaison sont de préférence choisis dans le groupe comprenant : un manchon d'enveloppe thermorétractable, un organe de liaison en colle époxy, un organe de liaison en ruban adhésif, ou encore une tige centrale.According to the invention, the jar of smoke-producing pyrotechnic composition is advantageously connected to a case which houses the powder charge by connecting means adapted to be broken when the separation charge is ignited. Such connecting means are preferably chosen from the group comprising: a heat-shrinkable envelope sleeve, a connecting member made of epoxy glue, a connecting member made of adhesive tape, or else a central rod.

Cette dernière, selon la présente invention, est de préférence formée d'un manchon pourvu d'une pluralité de lumières oblongues. Comme cela sera évoqué plus en détail par la suite, de telles lumières oblongues permettent en particulier la transmission de feu à la composition pyrotechnique fumigène.The latter, according to the present invention, is preferably formed of a sleeve provided with a plurality of oblong slots. As will be discussed in more detail below, such oblong slots allow in particular the transmission of fire to the smoke pyrotechnic composition.

De façon avantageuse, le pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène est divisé en différents éléments.Advantageously, the smoke pyrotechnic composition pot is divided into different elements.

Selon un mode de réalisation considéré actuellement comme préférentiel, le projectile comprend un retard de trajectoire mis à feu lors de l'éjection du projectile, un relais pyrotechnique associé au retard de trajectoire, une charge de séparation intercalée entre la charge de poudre et le pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène, une charge initiante associée à la canne explosive et un tiroir de sécurité intercalé sur des passages de feu reliant le relais à la charge de séparation et à la charge initiante, le tiroir de sécurité étant déplaçable entre une position de sécurité, au stockage, dans laquelle il obture les passages de feu, et une position de libération, dans laquelle, après éjection, il libère les passages de feu.According to an embodiment currently considered as preferred, the projectile comprises a trajectory delay ignited during the ejection of the projectile, a pyrotechnic relay associated with the trajectory delay, a separation charge inserted between the powder charge and the pot of smoke pyrotechnic composition, an initiating charge associated with the explosive cane and a safety drawer interposed on fire passages connecting the relay to the separation charge and the initiating charge, the safety drawer being movable between a safety position, during storage, in which it closes the fire passages, and a release position, in which, after ejection, it releases the fire passages.

La présente invention concerne également une munition destinée à la protection par masquage de véhicules, comportant dans une douille, un projectile du type précité et une charge pyrotechnique disposée dans le fond de la douille pour l'éjection du projectile.The present invention also relates to an ammunition intended for the protection by masking of vehicles, comprising in a shell, a projectile of the aforementioned type and a pyrotechnic charge disposed in the bottom of the shell for the ejection of the projectile.

D'autres caractéristiques, buts et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre et en regard des dessins annexés, donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs, et sur lesquels :

  • . la figure 1 représente une vue schématique en coupe axiale longitudinale d'une munition conforme à un premier mode de réalisation de la présente invention,
  • . la figure 2 représente une vue schématique en coupe axiale longitudinale d'une munition conforme à un second mode de réalisation de la présente invention, et
  • . la figure 3 illustre schématiquement le masquage obtenu par la mise en oeuvre d'une pluralité de munitions conformes à la présente invention.
Other characteristics, aims and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows and with reference to the appended drawings, given by way of nonlimiting examples, and in which:
  • . FIG. 1 represents a schematic view in longitudinal axial section of a munition according to a first embodiment of the present invention,
  • . FIG. 2 represents a schematic view in longitudinal axial section of a munition according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and
  • . Figure 3 schematically illustrates the masking obtained by the implementation of a plurality of ammunition according to the present invention.

On va dans un premier temps décrire le mode de réalisation de la munition illustrée sur la figure 1.We will first describe the embodiment of the munition illustrated in FIG. 1.

Cette munition 10 comprend une douille 12 fixée sur un culot 20 qui loge un impuseur. La douille 12 loge elle-même un projectile 100 qui, pour l'essentiel, comprend de l'avant vers l'arrière, dans le sens du déplacement, une charge de poudre 110 associée à une canne explosive 112 et un pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène réparti en deux élément 150, 152 selon le mode de réalisation illustré sur la figure 1, sans que ce nombre puisse être considéré comme limitatif.This munition 10 includes a socket 12 fixed on a base 20 which houses an impeller. The socket 12 itself houses a projectile 100 which, for the most part, comprises from front to rear, in the direction of movement, a powder charge 110 associated with an explosive cane 112 and a pot of pyrotechnic composition smoke smoke distributed in two element 150, 152 according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, without this number being able to be considered as limiting.

Sur la figure 1 annexée on a référencé 14 l'axe longitudinal de la munition 10 et du projectile 100. Cet axe 14 correspond pour l'essentiel à un axe de symétrie.In the appended FIG. 1, the longitudinal axis of the ammunition 10 and of the projectile 100 has been referenced 14. This axis 14 corresponds essentially to an axis of symmetry.

La douille 12 est formée d'un manchon cylindrique centré sur l'axe 14. Elle est munie à son extrémité arrière d'une collerette annulaire 16 s'étendant radialement par rapport à l'axe 14 et en direction de celui-ci.The sleeve 12 is formed of a cylindrical sleeve centered on the axis 14. It is provided at its rear end with an annular flange 16 extending radially with respect to the axis 14 and in the direction thereof.

La douille 12 est fixée sur le culot 20 par l'intermédiaire de cette collerette 16. En effet, la collerette 16 est pincée entre une nervure annulaire 22, solidaire de la périphérie extérieure 24 du culot 20, et une bague filetée 26 engagée à l'intérieur de la douille 12 et venant en prise avec un canon fileté 28 solidaire du culot 20.The sleeve 12 is fixed to the base 20 by means of this collar 16. In fact, the collar 16 is pinched between an annular rib 22, integral with the external periphery 24 of the base 20, and a threaded ring 26 engaged at the inside the sleeve 12 and engaging with a threaded barrel 28 integral with the base 20.

La bague filetée 26 et la nervure annulaire 22 sont coaxiales à l'axe 14.The threaded ring 26 and the annular rib 22 are coaxial with the axis 14.

Le culot 20 porte un ergot 30 qui s'étend radialement par rapport à l'axe longitudinal 14. Cet ergot permet d'immobiliser la douille dans un mortier à l'aide d'un montage à baïonnette, de façon classique en soi.The base 20 carries a lug 30 which extends radially with respect to the longitudinal axis 14. This lug allows the socket to be immobilized in a mortar using a bayonet mounting, in a conventional manner in itself.

La structure de l'impulseur illustré sur la figure 1 annexée est bien connue de l'homme de l'art.The structure of the impeller illustrated in the appended FIG. 1 is well known to those skilled in the art.

Le culot 20 supporte à son extrémité avant une coupelle 32.The base 20 supports at its front end a cup 32.

Cette coupelle 32 possède un passage axial traversant 34 qui reçoit un inflammateur à commande électrique 36.This cup 32 has an axial through passage 34 which receives an electrically controlled igniter 36.

Les deux fils 38, 40 destinés à assurer l'alimentation de l'inflammateur 36 sont reliés l'un à un rivet 42, l'autres à un plot de contact 44.The two wires 38, 40 intended to supply the igniter 36 are connected one to a rivet 42, the other to a contact pad 44.

Le culot 20 est réalisé en un matériau électriquement conducteur. Le rivet 42 est fixé au culot 20 afin d'assurer une liaison électrique entre le fil d'alimentation 38 et le culot 20.The base 20 is made of an electrically conductive material. The rivet 42 is fixed to the base 20 in order to provide an electrical connection between the supply wire 38 and the base 20.

Le plot de contact 44 est engagé dans un alésage traversant l'embase du culot 20, coaxialement à l'axe longitudinal 14. Ainsi, le plot de contact 44 est accessible à l'arrière de la munition.The contact pad 44 is engaged in a bore passing through the base of the base 20, coaxially with the longitudinal axis 14. Thus, the contact pad 44 is accessible at the rear of the ammunition.

Le plot de contact 44 est isolé du culot 20 par une gaine électriquement isolante 46.The contact pad 44 is isolated from the base 20 by an electrically insulating sheath 46.

La coupelle 32 définit sur sa surface avant une chambre qu reçoit une charge d'éjection 48, par exemple à base de poudre noire.The cup 32 defines on its front surface a chamber which receives an ejection charge 48, for example based on black powder.

Un piston 50 est intercalé entre le culot 20 logeant l'impulseur qui vient d'être décrit et l'extrémité arrière du projectile 100.A piston 50 is interposed between the base 20 housing the impeller which has just been described and the rear end of the projectile 100.

Le piston 50 est formé d'une rondelle qui s'étend transversalement à l'axe longitudinal 14. La rondelle 50 est pourvue d'un alésage central 52.The piston 50 is formed by a washer which extends transversely to the longitudinal axis 14. The washer 50 is provided with a central bore 52.

L'extrémité avant de la douille 12 est obturée au stockage par un chapeau 60. Le chapeau 60 est immobilisé sur la douille 12 à l'aide d'au moins une goupille cisaillable 62 qui s'étend radialement par rapport à l'axe longitudinal 14.The front end of the sleeve 12 is closed during storage by a cap 60. The cap 60 is immobilized on the sleeve 12 using at least one shearable pin 62 which extends radially relative to the longitudinal axis 14.

On aperçoit sur la figure 1 deux éléments 152, 150 du pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène empilés axialement de l'arrière vers l'avant dans le projectile 100. Les éléments 152, 150 sont cylindriques de révolution autour de l'axe longitudinal 14. Il sont enveloppés dans des étuis respectifs 153, 151.We see in Figure 1 two elements 152, 150 of the pot of smoke pyrotechnic composition stacked axially from rear to front in the projectile 100. The elements 152, 150 are cylindrical of revolution around the longitudinal axis 14. It are wrapped in respective cases 153, 151.

Les éléments 150 et 152 définissent un canal libre central 160 centré sur l'axe longitudinal 14 et aligné avec l'alésage 52 ménagé dans la rondelle 50.The elements 150 and 152 define a central free channel 160 centered on the longitudinal axis 14 and aligned with the bore 52 formed in the washer 50.

Un culot secondaire 120 centré sur l'axe 14 est intercalé entre le pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène 150, 152 et la charge de poudre 110. Le culot secondaire 120 possède un canal central 122 centré sur l'axe 14 qui loge de l'arrière vers l'avant un retard de trajectoire 124 et un relais pyrotechnique 126. Le retard de trajectoir 124 est engagé dans l'extrémité avant du canal 160.A secondary base 120 centered on the axis 14 is interposed between the pot of smoke pyrotechnic composition 150, 152 and the powder charge 110. The secondary base 120 has a central channel 122 centered on the axis 14 which houses the rear forward a trajectory delay 124 and a pyrotechnic relay 126. The trajectory delay 124 is engaged in the front end of the channel 160.

La charge de poudre 110 et la canne explosive 112 associée sont logées dans un étui 114. Cet étui 114 comprend un paroi cylindrique 115 centrée sur l'axe 14, solidaire d'une pièce d'une paroi transversale avant d'obturation 116.The powder charge 110 and the associated explosive cane 112 are housed in a case 114. This case 114 comprises a cylindrical wall 115 centered on the axis 14, integral with a part of a transverse wall before obturation 116.

L'extrémité arrière de l'étui 114 est obturée par un disque 118. Un joint torique d'étanchéité est intercalé entre le disque 118 et la paroi cylindrique 115 de l'étui 114.The rear end of the case 114 is closed by a disc 118. An O-ring seal is interposed between the disc 118 and the cylindrical wall 115 of the case 114.

La canne explosive 112 est formée d'un doigt cylindrique centré sur l'axe 14. La canne explosive 112 est entourée d'une enveloppe 111.The explosive cane 112 is formed by a cylindrical finger centered on the axis 14. The explosive cane 112 is surrounded by an envelope 111.

La canne explosive 112 est supportée par le disque 118.The explosive cane 112 is supported by the disc 118.

On notera à l'examen des figures annexées que la charge de poudre 110 entoure le canne explosive 112 sur toute sa périphérie et, de plus, recouvre l'extrémité avant de cette canne. Ainsi, la canne explosive 112 déploie la charge de poudre 110 sous forme d'un disque plein. La partie centrale de ce disque est générée par la portion de la charge de poudre placée en avant de la canne explosive 112. La bordure du disque est générée par la portion de la charge de poudre 110 qui entoure la canne explosive 112.It will be noted on examining the appended figures that the powder charge 110 surrounds the explosive cane 112 over its entire periphery and, moreover, covers the front end of this cane. Thus, the explosive cane 112 deploys the powder charge 110 in the form of a solid disc. The central part of this disc is generated by the portion of the powder charge placed in front of the explosive cane 112. The edge of the disc is generated by the portion of the powder charge 110 which surrounds the explosive cane 112.

Il est par ailleurs prévu entre le culot secondaire 120 et le disque 118 une chambre 140 centrée sur l'axe longitudinal 14.A chamber 140 centered on the longitudinal axis 14 is also provided between the secondary base 120 and the disc 118.

Cette chambre 140 loge de l'arrière vers l'avant un tiroir de sécurité 142 et une charge initiante 144.This chamber 140 houses from the rear towards the front a safety drawer 142 and an initiating charge 144.

La charge initiante 144 est placée en arrière de la canne explosive 112 et communique avec celle-ci.The initiating charge 144 is placed behind the explosive cane 112 and communicates with it.

Le tiroir de sécurité 142 est adapté pour être déplaçable entre une position de sécurité, qui correspond à la position de stockage, dans laquelle il obture les passages de feu, et une position de libération, obtenue après éjection du projectile 100 hors de la douille 12, dans laquelle le tiroir 142 libère le passage de feu reliant le relais 126 et la charge initiante 144.The safety drawer 142 is adapted to be movable between a safety position, which corresponds to the storage position, in which it closes the fire passages, and a release position, obtained after ejection of the projectile 100 from the case 12 , in which the drawer 142 frees the fire passage connecting the relay 126 and the initiating charge 144.

Le tiroir 142 est guidé à coulissement entre la charge initiante 144 et le culot secondaire 120 dans une direction radiale par rapport à l'axe longitudinal 14. Le tiroir de sécurité 142 est sollicité vers la position de libération par des moyens élastiques non illustrés sur les figures pour simplifier l'illustration.The drawer 142 is slidably guided between the initiating charge 144 and the secondary base 120 in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis 14. The safety drawer 142 is biased towards the release position by elastic means not illustrated on the figures to simplify the illustration.

Le tiroir de sécurité 142 possède un passage traversant qui s'étend parallèlement à l'axe longitudinal 14.The safety drawer 142 has a through passage which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis 14.

Le passage traversant ménagé dans le tiroir de sécurité 142 n'est aligné avec le passage de feu reliant le relais 126 à la charge initiante 144 que lorsque le tiroir 142 est déplacé en position de libération, c'est-à-dire après que le projectile 100 ait été éjecté hors de la douille 12.The through passage formed in the safety drawer 142 is aligned with the fire passage connecting the relay 126 to the initiating charge 144 only when the drawer 142 is moved to the release position, that is to say after the projectile 100 has been ejected from the case 12.

La structure d'un tel tiroir de sécurité, connue de l'homme de l'art, ne sera pas décrite plus en détail par la suite. Un tel tiroir de sécurité 142 peut par exemple être similaire au tiroir illustré sur les figures 3 et 4 des demandes de brevet français publiées sous les numéros 2 294 420 et 2 293 872.The structure of such a safety drawer, known to those skilled in the art, will not be described in more detail below. Such a safety drawer 142 can for example be similar to the drawer illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 of the French patent applications published under the numbers 2 294 420 and 2 293 872.

La charge de poudre 110 est avantageusement composée de particules métalliques dont la granulométrie est choisie pour être absorbeuse de contraste dans le domaine infrarouge. De préférence, selon l'invention, il s'agit de poudre de laiton.The powder charge 110 is advantageously composed of metal particles whose particle size is chosen to be absorbent of contrast in the infrared range. Preferably, according to the invention, it is brass powder.

Selon une autre caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, le pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène, et plus précisément les étuis 151, 153 logeant celui-ci, est (sont) relié(s) aux moyens logeant la charge de poudre 110 par des moyens de liaison adaptés pour être rompus lors de l'explosion de la canne 112 ou lors de la mise à feu d'une charge de séparation intercalée entre la charge de poudre 110 et le pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène 150, 152.According to another advantageous characteristic of the invention, the jar of smoke-producing pyrotechnic composition, and more precisely the cases 151, 153 housing the latter, is (are) connected to the means housing the powder charge 110 by means of link adapted to be broken when the cane 112 explodes or when the firing of a separation charge inserted between the powder charge 110 and the jar of smoke pyrotechnic composition 150, 152.

Ces moyens de liaison pourront prendre de nombreuses formes. Il peut s'agir d'un manchon d'enveloppe thermorétractable, d'un organe de liaison en colle époxy, d'un organe de liaison en ruban adhésif ou encore d'une tige centrale engagée dans le canal 160.These connecting means can take many forms. It can be a sleeve of heat-shrinkable envelope, a connecting member made of epoxy adhesive, a connecting member made of adhesive tape or else a central rod engaged in the channel 160.

On a illustré sur la figure 2 un mode de réalisation d'une munition conforme à cette dernière variante de réalisation.Illustrated in Figure 2 an embodiment of a munition according to this latter embodiment.

Les éléments du mode de réalisation illustrés sur la figure 2 conformes à ceux précédemment décrits en regard de la figure 1 portent des références numériques identiques.The elements of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2 conform to those previously described with reference to Figure 1 bear identical reference numerals.

On distingue sur la figure 2 une tige 170 engagée dans le canal 160 traversant les pots de composition pyrotechnique fumigène 150, 152.In FIG. 2, there is a rod 170 engaged in the channel 160 passing through the pots of smoke pyrotechnic composition 150, 152.

La tige centrale 170 est formée d'un manchon pourvu d'une pluralité de lumières oblongues 172.The central rod 170 is formed of a sleeve provided with a plurality of oblong slots 172.

L'extrémité arrière de la tige 170 reçoit une cale annulaire 174 pourvue d'une tête évasée 176 qui repose contre le piston d'éjection 50.The rear end of the rod 170 receives an annular shim 174 provided with a flared head 176 which rests against the ejection piston 50.

L'extrémité avant de la tige 170 est fixée sur le culot secondaire 120.The front end of the rod 170 is fixed to the secondary base 120.

On aperçoit également sur la figure 2 une charge de séparation 145 placée entre le culot secondaire 120 et l'extrémité avant du pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène.We also see in Figure 2 a separation charge 145 placed between the secondary base 120 and the front end of the pot of smoke pyrotechnic composition.

La charge de séparation 145 est plus précisément placée dans une chambre annulaire 146 ménagée sur la surface arrière du culot secondaire 120. Cette chambre 146 communique par des canaux 147 avec la charge initiante 144. Les canaux 147 s'étendent parallèlement à l'axe longitudinal 14. Ainsi, en position de sécurité du tiroir 142 les passages 147 sont séparés du relais 126. Par contre, lorsque le tiroir de sécurité 142 est déplacé en position de libération, les canaux 147 communiquent avec le relais 126.The separation charge 145 is more precisely placed in an annular chamber 146 formed on the rear surface of the secondary base 120. This chamber 146 communicates via channels 147 with the charge initiating 144. The channels 147 extend parallel to the longitudinal axis 14. Thus, in the safety position of the drawer 142 the passages 147 are separated from the relay 126. On the other hand, when the safety drawer 142 is moved to the release position , the channels 147 communicate with the relay 126.

On notera également à l'examen de la figure 2 annexée que le logement 146 qui reçoit la charge de séparation 145 est obturé par un voile d'étanchéité 148 qui s'étend transversalement à l'axe longitudinal 14 et évite toute transmission de feu directe à partir du canal principal 160 vers la charge de séparation 145.It will also be noted on examining the appended FIG. 2 that the housing 146 which receives the separation charge 145 is closed by a sealing veil 148 which extends transversely to the longitudinal axis 14 and avoids any direct fire transmission from main channel 160 to separation charge 145.

Le fonctionnement de la munition illustrée sur les figures 1 et 2 est le suivant.The operation of the munition illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 is as follows.

La munition 10 est assemblée par montage à baïonnette à l'aide de l'ergot 30 dans un mortier de lancement, de façon classique en soi.The ammunition 10 is assembled by bayonet mounting using the lug 30 in a launching mortar, in a conventional manner per se.

L'application d'une tension appropriée entre le culot 20 et le plot de contact 44 assure l'alimentation de l'inflammateur 36 et de là la mise à feu de la charge d'éjection 48.The application of an appropriate voltage between the base 20 and the contact pad 44 ensures the supply of the igniter 36 and from there the ignition of the ejection charge 48.

Les gaz développés par la charge d'éjection 48 sollicitent le piston 50 et le projectile 100 vers l'avant de la douille 12. L'effort transmis au chapeau 60 entraîne le cisaillement de la goupille 62 et produit l'éjection du projectile 100. Simultanément, les gaz d'éjection qui traversent l'alésage 52 ménagé dans le piston 50 et/ou la cale 174, se répandent dans le canal 160.The gases developed by the ejection charge 48 urge the piston 50 and the projectile 100 towards the front of the sleeve 12. The force transmitted to the cap 60 causes the pin 62 to shear and produces the ejection of the projectile 100. Simultaneously, the ejection gases which pass through the bore 52 formed in the piston 50 and / or the shim 174, spread in the channel 160.

De ce fait, à l'éjection, le feu est transmis par le couloir central 160 (et par l'intermédiaire des lumières oblongues 172) aux deux sous-charges fumigènes 150, 152 qui prennent leur régime, et au retard de trajectoire 124.Therefore, on ejection, the fire is transmitted through the central corridor 160 (and via the oblong lights 172) to the two smoke underloads 150, 152 which take their speed, and at the delay of trajectory 124.

Lors de l'éjection du projectile 100 à l'extérieur de l'étui 12, le tiroir de sécurité 142 est déplacé en position de libération.When the projectile 100 is ejected from the case 12, the safety drawer 142 is moved to the release position.

Les passages de feu reliant le relais 126 à la charge initiante 144 et à la charge de séparation 145, qui étaient initialement obturés, sont alors libérés.The fire passages connecting the relay 126 to the initiating charge 144 and to the separation charge 145, which were initially closed, are then released.

A la fin de la combustion du retard 124, le relais 126 est mis à feu et celui-ci transmet le feu à la charge initiante 144 et à la charge de séparation 145.At the end of the combustion of the delay 124, the relay 126 is ignited and this transmits the fire to the initiating charge 144 and to the separation charge 145.

La charge de séparation assure la séparation du pot de composition pyrotechnique fumigène 150, 152 et de la charge de poudre 110, par rupture des moyens reliant initialement ceux-ci, (par exemple par rupture de la tige 160).The separation charge ensures the separation of the pot of smoke pyrotechnic composition 150, 152 and the powder charge 110, by rupture of the means initially connecting these (for example by rupture of the rod 160).

La charge initiante 144 transmet le feu à la canne 112 qui lors de son explosion déploie la poudre 110 selon un disque d'axe centré sur la trajectoire. La poudre 110 peut par exemple être formée de particules métalliques en laiton.The initiating charge 144 transmits the fire to the rod 112 which, when it explodes, deploys the powder 110 according to a disc with an axis centered on the trajectory. The powder 110 can for example be formed from metallic particles of brass.

Par ailleurs, l'explosion de la canne 112 freine le déplacement des charges fumigènes 150, 152 pour assurer la mise en service de celles-ci en position relativement rapprochée du point de lancement, malgré une vitesse d'éjection élevée des charges fumigènes 150, 152. Les charges fumigènes 150, 152 sont mises en oeuvre au sol. Ces charges fumigènes 150, 152, lors de leur combustion, génèrent un nuage opaque infra-rouge.Furthermore, the explosion of the cane 112 slows the movement of the smoke charges 150, 152 to ensure that they are put into service in a position relatively close to the launch point, despite a high ejection speed of the smoke charges 150, 152. The smoke charges 150, 152 are used on the ground. These smoke charges 150, 152, during their combustion, generate an opaque infrared cloud.

Le retard de trajectoire 124 est adapté pour assurer un déploiement quasi instantané de la charge de poudre 110, c'est-à-dire en moins d'une seconde à compter de l'initialisation de la mise à feu, et de préférence de l'ordre de 0,3 à 0,4 seconde après cette initialisation.The trajectory delay 124 is adapted to ensure almost instantaneous deployment of the powder charge 110, that is to say in less than a second from the initiation of the firing, and preferably from the '' from 0.3 to 0.4 seconds after this initialization.

Le lieu du déploiement de la charge de poudre 110, c'est-à-dire la distance séparant le point du dépotement du point de lancement, est déterminé d'une part par la vitesse d'éjection, d'autre part par le temps de trajectoire.The place of deployment of the powder charge 110, that is to say the distance separating the point of deposition from the launch point, is determined on the one hand by the speed of ejection, on the other hand by time trajectory.

Selon l'invention, la charge d'éjection 48 et le retard de trajectoire 124 sont adaptés pour assurer le déploiement de la charge de poudre 110 à une distance de l'ordre d'une dizaine de mètre du point de lancement.According to the invention, the ejection charge 48 and the trajectory delay 124 are adapted to ensure the deployment of the powder charge 110 at a distance of the order of ten meters from the launch point.

Par ailleurs, la charge d'éjection 48 et la canne explosive 112 qui assure l'effet de freinage sur la charge fumigène 150, 152 sont de préférence adaptées pour assurer la chute des charges fumigènes 150, 152 à environ 30 ou 40 mètres du point de lancement.Furthermore, the ejection charge 48 and the explosive cane 112 which ensures the braking effect on the smoke charge 150, 152 are preferably adapted to ensure the fall of the smoke charges 150, 152 at about 30 or 40 meters from the point launch.

Ces charges fumigènes 150, 152 sont adaptées pour être mises en régime environ une dizaine de secondes après la mise à feu de la charge d'éjection 48, et pour générer un nuage épais de fumée pendant environ 30 à 60 secondes.These smoke charges 150, 152 are adapted to be brought into operation approximately ten seconds after the ignition of the ejection charge 48, and to generate a thick cloud of smoke for approximately 30 to 60 seconds.

Comme cela est illustré sur la figure 3, de préférence, selon la présente invention, une pluralité de munitions sont déployées simultanément dans la direction de la menace. Ces munitions sont éjectées à l'aide d'une pluralité de mortiers, présentant des azimuts équirépartis afin de déployer un nuage de masquage d'étendue horizontale importante entre le pointe de lancement (véhicule à protéger) et la menace détectée.As illustrated in FIG. 3, preferably, according to the present invention, a plurality of munitions are deployed simultaneously in the direction of the threat. This ammunition is ejected using a plurality of mortars, having evenly spaced azimuths in order to deploy a masking cloud of significant horizontal extent between the launch point (vehicle to be protected) and the threat detected.

On a illustré schématiquement sur la figure 3 un véhicule à protéger, référencé V, et le masquage obtenu par éjection de 5 projectiles conformes à l'invention. L'éjection des projectiles est opérée à tir tendu avec une trajectoire basse, par exemple à 11° de l'horizontale, de telle sorte que l'axe des nuages de particules résultant des charges de poudre 110 soit presque horizontal.Schematically illustrated in Figure 3 a vehicle to be protected, referenced V, and the masking obtained by ejection of 5 projectiles according to the invention. The projectiles are ejected with a tight shot with a low trajectory, for example at 11 ° from the horizontal, so that the axis of the clouds of particles resulting from the charges of powder 110 is almost horizontal.

Plus précisément, on aperçoit sur la figure 3 5 nuages de particules métalliques en laiton référencés M et 5 nuages de fumée référencés F diffusés par les charges fumigènes 150, 152.More precisely, we see in FIG. 3 5 clouds of metallic particles in brass referenced M and 5 clouds of smoke referenced F diffused by the smoke charges 150, 152.

Comme indiqué précédemment, les nuages de particules métalliques M sont déployés à environ 10 mètres du véhicule V à protéger, tandis que les nuages de fumée F sont générés à environ 30 à 40 mètres du véhicule V.As previously indicated, the clouds of metallic particles M are deployed approximately 10 meters from the vehicle V to be protected, while the smoke clouds F are generated approximately 30 to 40 meters from the vehicle V.

A titre d'exemple, la canne explosive 112 peut être adaptée pour générer un nuage de particules métalliques M présentant un diamètre de l'ordre de 7 mètres et une épaisseur de l'ordre de 1 à 2 mètres.By way of example, the explosive cane 112 can be adapted to generate a cloud of metallic particles M having a diameter of the order of 7 meters and a thickness of the order of 1 to 2 meters.

Bien entendu, les azimuts des différents mortiers recevant une munition conforme à la présente invention sont adaptés pour assurer un recouvrement tant des nuages de particules métalliques M que des nuages de fumée F, pour générer un écran de masquage continu.Of course, the azimuths of the various mortars receiving a munition in accordance with the present invention are adapted to ensure recovery of both the clouds of metallic particles M and the smoke clouds F, to generate a continuous masking screen.

Le plan moyen vertical défini par les nuages de particules métalliques M et les nuages de fumée F s'étend perpendiculairement à une ligne reliant le véhicule V à protéger et la menace détectée.The vertical mean plane defined by the metallic particle clouds M and the smoke clouds F extends perpendicularly to a line connecting the vehicle V to be protected and the threat detected.

Selon une autre variante de mise en oeuvre testée par les demanderesses ayant donné satisfaction, les munitions 10 conformes à l'invention sont déployées dans la direction de la menace par salve de 6 selon un angle d'ouverture totale de 120°.According to another variant of implementation tested by the applicants having given satisfaction, the ammunition 10 according to the invention are deployed in the direction of the threat by burst of 6 at a total opening angle of 120 °.

Claims (10)

  1. Projectile of the type comprising at least one container of pyrotechnic composition (150, 152) suitable for generating smoke on combustion, and an absorbent contrasting powder charge (110) in the infrared range, in which the powder charge (110) is placed in front of the container of smoke-generating pyrotechnic composition, as seen in the direction of ejection, and an explosive rod (112) is associated with the powder charge (110) for dissemination thereof, characterized in that the container (150, 152) of smoke-generating pyrotechnic composition has a longitudinal channel (160) for transmission of the ignition to the explosive rod (112) such that the latter explodes rapidly on trajectory after launching of the projectile in order that, on the one hand, quasi-instantaneous dissemination of the powder charge (110) is ensured and on the other hand the container (150, 152) of pyrotechnic composition is slowed down before it disperses completely.
  2. Projectile according to Claim 1, characterized in that the powder charge (110) is formed by brass powder.
  3. Projectile according to either of Claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the explosive rod (112) is centred on the axis of the projectile (14), with the powder charge (110) surrounding the rod (112) over its entire periphery and covering the front end of this rod such that the explosive rod (112) disseminates the powder charge (110) in the form of a solid disc.
  4. Projectile according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises a separating charge (145) placed between the powder charge (110) and the container (150, 152) of smoke-generating pyrotechnic composition.
  5. Projectile according to Claim 4, characterized in that the container (150, 152) of smoke-generating pyrotechnic composition is connected to a case (114) which houses the powder charge (110) by connection means (170) adapted to break when the separating charge (145) is ignited.
  6. Projectile according to Claim 5, characterized in that the connection means (170) are selected from the group comprising the following: a sleeve with heat-retractable sheath, an epoxy glue bonding member, an adhesive tape bonding member or a central rod.
  7. Projectile according to either of Claims 5 or 6, characterized in that the connection means are formed by a central rod (170) formed by a sleeve provided with a plurality of oblong openings (172).
  8. Projectile according to one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the container of smoke-generating pyrotechnic composition is divided into different elements (150, 152).
  9. Projectile according to one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it comprises a trajectory retarding means (124) ignited at the time of ejection of the projectile, a pyrotechnic relay (126) associated with the trajectory retarding means, a separating charge (145) placed between the powder charge (110) and the container (150, 152) of smoke-generating pyrotechnic composition, an initiating charge (144) associated with the explosive rod (112) and a security slide valve (142) placed in ignition passages connecting the relay (126) with the separating charge (145) and the initiating charge (144), the security slide valve (142) being displaceable between a safety position during storage in which it closes the ignition passages and a release position in which, after ejection, it releases the ignition passages.
  10. Ammunition intended for protecting vehicles, characterized in that it has in a bushing (12) a projectile (100) according to one of Claims 1 to 9 and a pyrotechnic charge (48) arranged in the base of the bushing for ejection of the projectile.
EP88400567A 1987-03-12 1988-03-10 Smoke-producing projectile and ammunition having such a projectile Expired - Lifetime EP0293273B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT88400567T ATE80221T1 (en) 1987-03-12 1988-03-10 SMOKING PROJECTILE AND AMMUNITION CONTAINING SUCH PROJECTILE.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8703415A FR2612287B1 (en) 1987-03-12 1987-03-12 SMOKE PROJECTILE AND AMMUNITION THUS EQUIPPED
FR8703415 1987-03-12

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0293273A1 EP0293273A1 (en) 1988-11-30
EP0293273B1 true EP0293273B1 (en) 1992-09-02

Family

ID=9348907

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP88400567A Expired - Lifetime EP0293273B1 (en) 1987-03-12 1988-03-10 Smoke-producing projectile and ammunition having such a projectile

Country Status (10)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0293273B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE80221T1 (en)
CA (1) CA1317509C (en)
DE (1) DE3874210T2 (en)
DK (1) DK167780B1 (en)
ES (1) ES2034289T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2612287B1 (en)
NO (1) NO171332C (en)
PT (1) PT86970B (en)
TR (1) TR24319A (en)

Families Citing this family (21)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ES2011681A6 (en) * 1988-10-15 1990-02-01 Falken S L Smoke-producing projectile.
NO171750C (en) * 1991-01-21 1993-04-28 Raufoss As DEVICE FOR ROEYK GRANATE
DE4123848A1 (en) * 1991-07-18 1993-01-21 Piepenbrock Pyrotechnik Gmbh SEALING FOR PYROTECHNICAL EQUIPMENT
FR2697329B1 (en) * 1992-10-23 1995-02-03 Giat Ind Sa Smoke ammunition.
FR2697328A1 (en) * 1992-10-23 1994-04-29 Giat Ind Sa Smoke shell with generating pots and ejector - has pots linked by temporary plastic connector to hold them together until ejected
DE4328581A1 (en) * 1993-08-25 1995-03-02 Nico Pyrotechnik Smoke missile
DE4337680C2 (en) * 1993-11-04 1995-08-24 Buck Chem Tech Werke Two-component smoke projectors
EP0774642B1 (en) 1995-11-17 2000-05-31 Giat Industries Dispersing or applicating process of an active material, composition and projectile manufactured according to such a process
DE29812623U1 (en) * 1998-07-15 1998-12-10 Buck Werke GmbH & Co., 73337 Bad Überkingen Throwing body with controlled disassembly and charge integrated in the active mass area
DE10013398A1 (en) * 2000-03-17 2001-09-20 Comet Gmbh Pyrotechnik Appbau Pollutant-free colored smoke, consists of fine metallic particles which absorb light, and whose size can be altered.
FR2840977B1 (en) 2002-06-12 2004-09-03 Giat Ind Sa DEVICE AND MUNITION FOR PROTECTING A VEHICLE OR A FIXED PLATFORM AGAINST A THREAT
FR2840978B1 (en) 2002-06-12 2004-09-03 Giat Ind Sa MASKING AMMUNITION
FR2849690B1 (en) * 2003-01-08 2006-08-18 Lacroix Soc E PROTECTION DEVICE IN PARTICULAR FOR TERRESTRIAL VEHICLES
DE102004005105A1 (en) * 2004-02-02 2005-09-01 Buck Neue Technologien Gmbh Object protection system and method for protecting objects
FR2937123B1 (en) * 2008-10-13 2016-09-16 Nexter Munitions MUNITION FOR CONTROLLING CROWDS WITH NON-LETTER EFFECT
FR2937720B1 (en) 2008-10-29 2010-10-29 Nexter Systems SHOOTING DEVICE FOR RECURRENT DEFENSE MUNITION
FR2983289B1 (en) 2011-11-29 2014-12-12 Nexter Munitions METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE RELEASE OF A MILITARY LOAD, CONTROL DEVICE AND PROJECTILE FUSE USING SUCH A METHOD
DE102013107364B4 (en) * 2013-07-11 2015-01-22 Krauss-Maffei Wegmann Gmbh & Co. Kg laser armor
RU2596544C1 (en) * 2015-04-27 2016-09-10 Открытое акционерное общество "Федеральный научно-производственный центр "Научно-исследовательский институт прикладной химии" Hand grenade
DE102016122740A1 (en) * 2016-11-24 2018-05-24 Rheinmetall Waffe Munition Gmbh Pyrotechnic active body
RU2680575C2 (en) * 2017-05-15 2019-02-22 Федеральное государственное казенное военное образовательное учреждение высшего образования "Военный учебно-научный центр Военно-Морского Флота "Военно-морская академия им. Адмирала Флота Советского Союза Н.Г. Кузнецова" Reactive smoke device

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2343989A1 (en) * 1976-03-09 1977-10-07 Lacroix E Airship antimissile ignition canister - has plug at each end and attached to spindle broken by ignition of charge
NO145521C (en) * 1979-09-28 1982-04-14 Raufoss Ammunisjonsfabrikker ROEYKGRANAT
DE3238455C2 (en) * 1982-10-16 1987-03-05 Pyrotechnische Fabrik F. Feistel GmbH + Co KG, 6719 Göllheim Smoke grenades

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2612287B1 (en) 1993-09-10
NO171332C (en) 1993-02-24
PT86970B (en) 1995-03-31
PT86970A (en) 1989-03-30
DK133888A (en) 1988-09-13
DK133888D0 (en) 1988-03-11
NO881063L (en) 1988-09-13
DE3874210D1 (en) 1992-10-08
ES2034289T3 (en) 1993-04-01
EP0293273A1 (en) 1988-11-30
ATE80221T1 (en) 1992-09-15
NO171332B (en) 1992-11-16
DE3874210T2 (en) 1993-03-04
DK167780B1 (en) 1993-12-13
NO881063D0 (en) 1988-03-10
CA1317509C (en) 1993-05-11
TR24319A (en) 1991-09-12
FR2612287A1 (en) 1988-09-16

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0293273B1 (en) Smoke-producing projectile and ammunition having such a projectile
EP0293295B1 (en) Penetrating projectile
EP0636854B1 (en) Smoke projectile
FR2704053A1 (en) Cartridge in two separable parts.
FR3017205A1 (en) HOLLOW LOAD AND APPLICATION FOR THE SEPARATION OF TWO FLOORS FROM AN AERONAUTICAL EQUIPMENT OR ITS NEUTRALIZATION
EP1181498B1 (en) Igniter tube for artillery ammunition
EP2962060B1 (en) Munition with modifiable explosive capability
FR2593905A1 (en) Destructible igniter for propellant charges
FR2672674A1 (en) CONTAINER PROVIDED WITH ELECTRICAL BINDING MEANS.
BE861606A (en) PROJECTILE OF LAUNCHING ELECTROMAGNETIC LURES.
FR2701107A1 (en) Arrangement in a smoke-charged enclosure.
FR2559255A1 (en) Igniter and ignition cartridge for the propellant charge of a projectile.
FR2728675A1 (en) CARTRIDGE WITH SOCKET AND ARROW PROJECTILE
FR2552871A1 (en) Anti-tank projectile acting at the deviation speed
FR2849690A1 (en) Protection device, useful particularly for terrestrial vehicles, comprises a composition that has a protective effect after initiation and ejection from its container
FR2748804A1 (en) TANDEM COMBAT HEAD
FR2867557A1 (en) Cartridge for use in civilian aircraft, has projectile comprising block placed on non metallic envelope, and piston placed in booster tube and between projectile and propulsion load, using ring
EP0323788B1 (en) Projectile comprising submunition
EP0805335B1 (en) Fragmentation warhead with equatorial symmetry of expulsion
FR2702273A1 (en) Pyrotechnic head with advanced means of dispersion.
EP0412897A1 (en) Two-stage gun with pyrotechnic propulsion and electric ignition
FR2466743A1 (en) Smoke emitting grenade - fitted with separate fast and slow burning charges to give and maintain smoke screen
BE524509A (en)
FR3049056A1 (en) STARTING DEVICE FOR A PYROTECHNIC LOAD AND AMMUNITION INCORPORATING SUCH STARTING DEVICE
FR2697329A1 (en) Smoke generating shell - has two or more smoke pots joined by temporary connector until discharged

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE ES FR GB GR IT LI LU NL SE

RTI1 Title (correction)
17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19890524

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19910118

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: GIAT INDUSTRIES

Owner name: ETIENNE LACROIX - TOUS ARTIFICES SA

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE ES FR GB GR IT LI LU NL SE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19920902

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 80221

Country of ref document: AT

Date of ref document: 19920915

Kind code of ref document: T

ITF It: translation for a ep patent filed
REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 3874210

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19921008

GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19930331

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2034289

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
EAL Se: european patent in force in sweden

Ref document number: 88400567.9

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: IF02

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Payment date: 20050217

Year of fee payment: 18

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 20050218

Year of fee payment: 18

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20060310

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20061001

NLV4 Nl: lapsed or anulled due to non-payment of the annual fee

Effective date: 20061001

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Payment date: 20070219

Year of fee payment: 20

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20070312

Year of fee payment: 20

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20070313

Year of fee payment: 20

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20070314

Year of fee payment: 20

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20070316

Year of fee payment: 20

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Payment date: 20070404

Year of fee payment: 20

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20070607

Year of fee payment: 20

BE20 Be: patent expired

Owner name: S.A. ETIENNE *LACROIX - TOUS ARTIFICES

Effective date: 20080310

Owner name: *GIAT INDUSTRIES

Effective date: 20080310

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: PE20

Expiry date: 20080309

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20070330

Year of fee payment: 20

EUG Se: european patent has lapsed
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF EXPIRATION OF PROTECTION

Effective date: 20080309

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FD2A

Effective date: 20080311

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF EXPIRATION OF PROTECTION

Effective date: 20080311