EP0694750B1 - Ammunition feeding system for small or medium calibre arms - Google Patents

Ammunition feeding system for small or medium calibre arms Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0694750B1
EP0694750B1 EP95401645A EP95401645A EP0694750B1 EP 0694750 B1 EP0694750 B1 EP 0694750B1 EP 95401645 A EP95401645 A EP 95401645A EP 95401645 A EP95401645 A EP 95401645A EP 0694750 B1 EP0694750 B1 EP 0694750B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
feed system
munitions
conveyor
ammunition
starwheel
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EP95401645A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0694750A1 (en
Inventor
Christian Gyre
Daniel Viellefond
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CTA International SAS
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CTA International SAS
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    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41—WEAPONS
    • F41A—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS COMMON TO BOTH SMALLARMS AND ORDNANCE, e.g. CANNONS; MOUNTINGS FOR SMALLARMS OR ORDNANCE
    • F41A9/00—Feeding or loading of ammunition; Magazines; Guiding means for the extracting of cartridges
    • F41A9/37—Feeding two or more kinds of ammunition to the same gun; Feeding from two sides

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a system ammunition supply for a small firearm or medium caliber, of the type comprising at least one ammunition storage device, a device of introduction specific to the weapon to load the ammunition one by one in a shooting chamber, and a device intermediary to transfer ammunition between the storage device and the device for introducing tear.
  • the ammunition are linked together on a chain which is stored in a container that forms a store of ammunition.
  • the intermediate transfer device between the magazine and the device for introducing the weapon is consisting of unidirectional drive means which mesh the chain to bring the ammunition up to the device for introducing the weapon.
  • a firearm can fire different ammunition which are chosen in depending on the nature of the objective to be achieved.
  • an objective which presents itself in the field aiming of the weapon is not always identifiable by advance, knowing that the effectiveness of the shooting is conditioned by an appropriate choice of the ammunition to be fired.
  • one solution is to plan two stores containing different ammunition. These two magazines are placed on either side of the weapon and are respectively associated with two intermediate devices to transfer ammunition from one or the other of these stores down to the device of introduction of the weapon.
  • An object of the invention is to provide a new solution to the above problem while providing other advantages.
  • the invention proposes a system of the aforementioned type and which is characterized by what the storage device consists of a single container in which two stores are fitted containing different non-meshed ammunition between each store including a conveyor bidirectional movement that supports and moves ammunition inside the store, in that the intermediate transfer device also includes a bidirectional displacement means common to both stores and intended either to transfer ammunition from either store to the device of introduction of the weapon, either to bring back to the store original ammunition being transferred to the device for introducing the weapon, and in that the feeding system also includes means for select and control synchronously the means to bidirectional movement of the transfer device intermediary with one or other of the conveyors of two stores.
  • the means for bidirectional movement of the intermediate transfer device consists of a star wheel, and the conveyor of each store is an endless chain conveyor.
  • the means for selecting and ordering synchronization of the star wheel with one or other of the conveyors of the two stores consist of a drive pinion integral in rotation with the shaft which supports the star wheel, by two pinions respectively associated with the two conveyors by two coupling devices, and by a single control device to act on both coupling devices so as to engage the drive pinion of the star wheel with one or the other of the drive sprockets of the two conveyors.
  • the star wheel is driven in one direction of rotation or the other either from an auxiliary power source, either from the power source used to operate of the weapon.
  • the feeding system ensures in a way perfectly reversible ammunition path between the weapon and the two magazines according to the direction of rotation of the star wheel.
  • the feeding system is particularly well suited for the delivery of telescoped ammunition.
  • the power system 1 shown in Figures 1, 2 and 5 includes a storage device 3 of different munitions M1 and M2, a device of introduction 5 of these munitions one by one in a loading and firing chamber 6 of a firearm 7 of small or medium caliber, and an intermediate device 9 to transfer ammunition M1 and M2 between the storage device 3 and the input device 5 of weapon 7.
  • the representation of the introducer 5 of the weapon was voluntarily schematized, given that it is specific to the type of weapon considered and that the storage device 3 and transfer device intermediate 9 form a unit which can cooperate with different types of introducers.
  • the storage device 3 shown in the Figure 1 comprises a container 10 having the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. Two stores G1 and G2 containing the munitions M1 and M2 are arranged at inside the container 10.
  • the two stores G1 and G2 are fitted out on either side of a central vertical partition 12 which longitudinally shares the interior volume of the container 10 in two parts.
  • the container 10 extends over a length that is greater than the length of M1 and M2 ammunition.
  • the two corridors 15 and 17 of store G1 have a width which is slightly greater than the diameter of the ammunition they must store. At their ends lower, the two lanes 15 and 17 communicate between them by a semi-circular part 20 formed in the bottom wall of the container 10. At their ends upper, the two corridors 15 and 17 lead into the same inlet / outlet opening 22 provided in the part top of container 10.
  • the layout of the G2 store is identical to that of store G1, and the two external corridors 15 and internal 17 of the G2 store also lead to their upper ends, in the same inlet opening / exit 22 than those of store G1.
  • M1 and M2 ammunition are intended to be stored horizontally and on top of each other in corridors 15 and 17 of the two stores G1 and G2, the ammunition not linked together.
  • Each store G1 and G2 is equipped with a means bidirectional movement to support and move M1 or M2 ammunition inside the store.
  • this means of displacement bidirectional consists of a conveyor 25 two endless chains 27.
  • the two chains 27 of each conveyor 25 extend parallel to each other and each wind on two pinions respectively upper 29 and lower 31.
  • Sprockets 29 and 31 share each chain 27 in two strands and are arranged so that a strand of chain 27 can roam freely in the external corridor 15 of the store associated G1 or G2, while the other strand of this chain 27 can move freely in the corridor internal 17 of said store G1 or G2.
  • the two gables upper 29 of the two chains 27 are supported and integral in rotation with the same shaft 29a, and the two lower gears 31 are also supported and integral with the same tree 31a, so that the two chains 27 of each conveyor 25 is driven in synchronism.
  • the ends of the shafts 29a and 31a of each conveyor 25 are housed in bearings 33 supported by the side walls of the container 10, by example.
  • the two endless chains 27 of each conveyor 25 have radial lugs 35 which are intended to support M1 or M2 ammunition.
  • the intermediate device 9 for transferring ammunition from one of the G1 or G2 stores towards the device for introducing the weapon 5 and vice versa also includes bidirectional displacement means which is constituted by a star wheel 37.
  • This star wheel 37 includes two stars 39 with four branches 40, which are supported and integral in rotation of a carrier shaft 41.
  • the two stars 39 are separated from each other by a lesser distance the length of the ammunition M1 and M2 so that bear ammunition.
  • Star wheel 37 is mounted in the opening upper inlet / outlet 22 of container 10 for cooperate with the ammunition of the store G1 or G2.
  • the shaft 41 which carries the star wheel 37 is supported in rotation by the container 10 and extends parallel to the shafts 29a and 31a of the two conveyors 25.
  • the inlet / outlet opening 22 of the container 10 is partly bordered by a casing 43 in the form of an arc which partially surrounds the star wheel 37 of the side of store G1. Note that the distance separating the bottom of each branch 40 from the stars 39 and the internal wall of the casing 43 is barely greater than the diameter of munitions M1 and M2.
  • the star wheel 37 and the conveyors 25 must be ordered synchronously, knowing that either of stores G1 and G2 is selected.
  • Means are therefore provided for selecting and synchronously control the star wheel 37 with one either of the conveyors 25 of the two stores G1 or G2.
  • the two coupling devices 48 and 50 are identical and only the device 48 is described below.
  • the coupling device 48 comprises a sheath 54 which is slidably mounted on the shaft 29a of the conveyor 25 of store G1 by means of grooves 56.
  • the drive pinion 47 is supported and integral with the scabbard 54.
  • the control device 52 comprises a rod 58 terminated at each end by a fork 60 which engages in an annular groove 62 formed at the periphery of each sleeve 54.
  • the rod 58 is mounted on a pivot 65 to move the two in translation sleeves 54 in two opposite directions.
  • FIG. 6 it is provided with a pivoting guide flap 70 which is located at the level of the inlet / outlet opening 22 of the container 10.
  • This flap 70 is positioned under the star wheel 37 and is secured to a shaft 72 which extends parallel to the shaft 41 of the star wheel 41.
  • the shaft 72 is supported in rotation by the container 10.
  • This flap 70 extends over a length less than the distance separating the two stars 39, and can switch between two positions according to whether magazine G1 or G2 is selected. In each of its two positions, the flap 70 is immobilized by at minus a ball pusher 74 for example.
  • the shaft 72 integral with the flap 70 supports towards a end a radial lever 76 intended to cooperate with the two ball pushers 74 supported by a partition of the container 10.
  • M1 ammunition is stored in store G1 and M2 ammunition are stored in store G2.
  • Each G1 and G2 store is equipped with an access hatch (not shown) for load ammunition in vertical lanes respectively external 15 and internal 17 of each store G1 and G2.
  • an M1 or M2 ammunition is supported by two cleats 35 of the two chains without end 27 of the associated conveyor 25.
  • the shooter can select store G1 or store G2 by depending on the nature of the objective to be achieved. If the shooter selects store G2 to fire M2 ammunition and that the drive pinion 49 of conveyor 25 of store G2 is not engaged with the drive pinion 45 of the star wheel 37, the shooter acts on the control device 52 to set taken the two pinions 45 and 49 as a result of pivoting of the rod 58, which causes the uncoupling of the drive pinion 47 of the conveyor 25 of the store G1 and of the drive pinion 45 of the star wheel 37.
  • the shaft 41 of the star wheel 37 is controlled in rotation, which has the effect of causing the conveyor 25 of store G2 in synchronism with tree 41.
  • the M2 ammunition contained in the external corridor 15 or G2 store exit corridor go up and are routed one after the other to the entrance opening / exit 22 to be taken up by branches 40 of the star wheel 37 and transferred to chamber 6 of the introduction device 5 to the rate of fire of tear.
  • the first M2 ammunition to come out of the G2 store is supported on one side of the flap 70 to do so to toggle.
  • the tilting of the shutter 70 is limited by the ball pusher 74 located on the side of the magazine G1.
  • the flap 70 thus makes it possible to retain the munition M2 which is then found under the star wheel 37.
  • Ammunition M2 partially engages between two branches 40 axially aligned of the two stars 39 of the wheel star 37 and is then guided by the housing 43 to what the M2 ammunition goes to the top of the star wheel 37 before being evacuated to the device introduction 5 of the weapon and be loaded into the room 6.
  • the rotational movement of the wheel star (37) is controlled by the operating cycle of the weapon.
  • the rotational movement is therefore not continuous, since this movement must be momentary interrupted during the loaded ammunition firing phase in chamber 6 of weapon 7.
  • the shooter When the shooter decides to stop shooting M2 ammunition to fire M1 ammunition, it must first bring back the M2 ammunition which is possibly being transferred to the device introduction 5 of the weapon. For this, the shooter commands the shaft 41 of the star wheel 37 in a direction of rotation reverse to bring M2 ammunition back into store G2.
  • the shooter acts on the control device 52 to drive the star wheel 37 and the conveyor 25 from store G1, i.e. coupling the drive pinion 45 of the star wheel 37 and the drive pinion 47 of the conveyor 25 of the store G1. Finally, the shooter controls the rotation of the shaft 41 of the star wheel 37 to drive the conveyor 25 of the store G1.
  • M1 ammunition goes in and out of store G1 via internal conduit 17, while the ammunition M1 of the external conduit 15 descend and pass then in the internal conduit 17 or outlet corridor.
  • the first M1 ammunition that leaves the G1 store regrows the shutter 70 and makes it tilt to its other position where it is immobilized by the ball pusher 74 located on the side of store G2.
  • the casing 43 allows to guide the ammunition M1 between the part lower and upper part of the star wheel 37.
  • the flap 70 When store G1 is selected, the flap 70 only provides a guiding function for M1 ammunition. Indeed, the internal duct 17 of the store G1, which acts as an outlet duct, is located substantially opposite the star wheel 37. By however, when store G2 is selected, the flap 70 provides a support function for retaining the ammunition M2 since the external conduit 15 or outlet duct is axially offset from the star wheel 37.
  • Reversible wheel operation star 37 assumes that its positioning and dimensions, in particular those of branches 40 of stars 39 as well as the shapes of these branches, be precisely calculated based in particular on the diameter of the ammunition M1 and M2 on the one hand, and taking account of the fact that the M1 ammunition from the G1 store comes out through the internal conduit 17, while the M2 munitions of the store G2 exit through the external conduit 15.
  • the invention is not limited to embodiment which has just been described.
  • the means of selecting the store G1 or G2 and control in synchronism of the star wheel 37 with the conveyor 25 of the selected store can be replaced by technically equivalent means.

Description

La présente invention concerne un système d'alimentation en munitions pour une arme à feu de petit ou moyen calibre, du type comprenant au moins un dispositif de stockage des munitions, un dispositif d'introduction propre à l'arme pour charger les munitions une à une dans une chambre de tir, et un dispositif intermédiaire pour transférer les munitions entre le dispositif de stockage et le dispositif d'introduction de l'arme.The present invention relates to a system ammunition supply for a small firearm or medium caliber, of the type comprising at least one ammunition storage device, a device of introduction specific to the weapon to load the ammunition one by one in a shooting chamber, and a device intermediary to transfer ammunition between the storage device and the device for introducing tear.

Un tel système d'alimentation est notamment décrit dans le document US-A- 5 109 751.Such a supply system is in particular described in document US-A-5,109,751.

Dans un système d'alimentation classique, les munitions sont maillonnées entre elles sur une chaíne qui est stockée dans un conteneur qui forme un magasin de munitions. Le dispositif de transfert intermédiaire entre le magasin et le dispositif d'introduction de l'arme, est constitué par des moyens d'entraínement unidirectionnels qui engrènent la chaíne pour amener les munitions jusqu'au dispositif d'introduction de l'arme.In a conventional feeding system, the ammunition are linked together on a chain which is stored in a container that forms a store of ammunition. The intermediate transfer device between the magazine and the device for introducing the weapon, is consisting of unidirectional drive means which mesh the chain to bring the ammunition up to the device for introducing the weapon.

D'une manière générale, une arme à feu peut tirer des munitions différentes qui sont choisies en fonction de la nature de l'objectif à atteindre. Concrètement, un objectif qui se présente dans le champ de visée de l'arme n'est pas toujours identifiable par avance, sachant que l'efficacité du tir est conditionnée par un choix approprié de la munition à tirer. Pour répondre à ce problème, une solution consiste à prévoir deux magasins contenant des munitions différentes. Ces deux magasins sont placés de part et d'autre de l'arme et sont respectivement associés à deux dispositifs intermédiaires pour transférer les munitions de l'un ou de l'autre de ces magasins jusqu'au dispositif d'introduction de l'arme.Generally speaking, a firearm can fire different ammunition which are chosen in depending on the nature of the objective to be achieved. Concretely, an objective which presents itself in the field aiming of the weapon is not always identifiable by advance, knowing that the effectiveness of the shooting is conditioned by an appropriate choice of the ammunition to be fired. For answer this problem, one solution is to plan two stores containing different ammunition. These two magazines are placed on either side of the weapon and are respectively associated with two intermediate devices to transfer ammunition from one or the other of these stores down to the device of introduction of the weapon.

Une telle solution n'est pas satisfaisante techniquement et elle présente notamment l'inconvénient d'être encombrante. Such a solution is not satisfactory technically and it has the particular disadvantage to be bulky.

Un but de l'invention est d'apporter une solution nouvelle au problème précité tout en procurant d'autres avantages.An object of the invention is to provide a new solution to the above problem while providing other advantages.

A cet effet, l'invention propose un système d'alimentation du type précité et qui est caractérisé en ce que le dispositif de stockage est constitué d'un conteneur unique dans lequel sont aménagés deux magasins contenant des munitions différentes non maillonnées entre elles, chaque magasin comprenant un convoyeur à déplacement bidirectionnel qui supporte et déplace les munitions à l'intérieur du magasin, en ce que le dispositif de transfert intermédiaire comprend également un moyen à déplacement bidirectionnel commun aux deux magasins et destiné soit à transférer des munitions de l'un ou de l'autre des magasins vers le dispositif d'introduction de l'arme, soit à ramener vers le magasin d'origine les munitions en cours de transfert vers le dispositif d'introduction de l'arme, et en ce que le système d'alimentation comprend également des moyens pour sélectionner et commander en synchronisme le moyen à déplacement bidirectionnel du dispositif de transfert intermédiaire avec l'un ou l'autre des convoyeurs des deux magasins.To this end, the invention proposes a system of the aforementioned type and which is characterized by what the storage device consists of a single container in which two stores are fitted containing different non-meshed ammunition between each store including a conveyor bidirectional movement that supports and moves ammunition inside the store, in that the intermediate transfer device also includes a bidirectional displacement means common to both stores and intended either to transfer ammunition from either store to the device of introduction of the weapon, either to bring back to the store original ammunition being transferred to the device for introducing the weapon, and in that the feeding system also includes means for select and control synchronously the means to bidirectional movement of the transfer device intermediary with one or other of the conveyors of two stores.

Selon un mode préférentiel de réalisation de l'invention, le moyen à déplacement bidirectionnel du dispositif intermédiaire de transfert est constitué par une roue étoilée, et le convoyeur de chaque magasin est un convoyeur à chaínes sans fin.According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the means for bidirectional movement of the intermediate transfer device consists of a star wheel, and the conveyor of each store is an endless chain conveyor.

Selon une autre caractéristique de l'invention, les moyens pour sélectionner et commander en synchronisme la roue étoilée avec l'un ou l'autre des convoyeurs des deux magasins, sont constitués par un pignon d'entraínement solidaire en rotation de l'arbre qui supporte la roue étoilée, par deux pignons d'entraínement respectivement associés aux deux convoyeurs par deux dispositifs d'accouplement, et par un dispositif de commande unique pour agir sur les deux dispositifs d'accouplement de manière à mettre en prise le pignon d'entraínement de la roue étoilée avec l'un ou l'autre des pignons d'entraínement des deux convoyeurs.According to another characteristic of the invention, the means for selecting and ordering synchronization of the star wheel with one or other of the conveyors of the two stores, consist of a drive pinion integral in rotation with the shaft which supports the star wheel, by two pinions respectively associated with the two conveyors by two coupling devices, and by a single control device to act on both coupling devices so as to engage the drive pinion of the star wheel with one or the other of the drive sprockets of the two conveyors.

D'une manière générale, la roue étoilée est entraínée dans un sens de rotation ou dans l'autre soit à partir d'une source motrice auxiliaire, soit à partir de la source motrice utilisée pour assurer le fonctionnement de l'arme.Generally, the star wheel is driven in one direction of rotation or the other either from an auxiliary power source, either from the power source used to operate of the weapon.

Selon un avantage important de l'invention, le système d'alimentation permet d'assurer d'une façon parfaitement réversible le cheminement des munitions entre l'arme et les deux magasins suivant le sens de rotation de la roue étoilée.According to an important advantage of the invention, the feeding system ensures in a way perfectly reversible ammunition path between the weapon and the two magazines according to the direction of rotation of the star wheel.

Selon un autre avantage de l'invention, le système d'alimentation est particulièrement bien adapté pour l'acheminement de munitions télescopées.According to another advantage of the invention, the feeding system is particularly well suited for the delivery of telescoped ammunition.

D'autres avantages, caractéristiques et détails de l'invention ressortiront de la description explicative qui va suivre faite en référence aux dessins annexés, donnés uniquement à titre d'exemple, et dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue en perspective schématique et partielle d'un double magasin du système d'alimentation selon l'invention,
  • la figure 2 est une vue selon la flèche II de la figure 1 pour illustrer le fonctionnement d'un magasin,
  • la figure 3 est une vue schématique et partielle d'un convoyeur logé dans l'un des magasins du système d'alimentation,
  • la figure 4 est une vue en perspective partielle de la partie de la figure 3 indiquée par la flèche IV,
  • la figure 5 est une vue semblable à celle de la figure 2 pour illustrer le fonctionnement de l'autre magasin, et
  • la figure 6 est une vue en perspective partielle du détail de la figure 1 indiqué par la flèche VI.
Other advantages, characteristics and details of the invention will emerge from the explanatory description which follows, given with reference to the appended drawings, given solely by way of example, and in which:
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic and partial perspective view of a double magazine of the supply system according to the invention,
  • FIG. 2 is a view along arrow II of FIG. 1 to illustrate the operation of a store,
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic and partial view of a conveyor housed in one of the stores of the supply system,
  • FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of the part of FIG. 3 indicated by the arrow IV,
  • FIG. 5 is a view similar to that of FIG. 2 to illustrate the operation of the other store, and
  • Figure 6 is a partial perspective view of the detail of Figure 1 indicated by the arrow VI.

Le système d'alimentation 1 représenté aux figures 1, 2 et 5 comprend un dispositif de stockage 3 de munitions différentes M1 et M2, un dispositif d'introduction 5 de ces munitions une à une dans une chambre de chargement et de tir 6 d'une arme à feu 7 de petit ou moyen calibre, et un dispositif intermédiaire 9 pour transférer les munitions M1 et M2 entre le dispositif de stockage 3 et le dispositif d'introduction 5 de l'arme 7.The power system 1 shown in Figures 1, 2 and 5 includes a storage device 3 of different munitions M1 and M2, a device of introduction 5 of these munitions one by one in a loading and firing chamber 6 of a firearm 7 of small or medium caliber, and an intermediate device 9 to transfer ammunition M1 and M2 between the storage device 3 and the input device 5 of weapon 7.

La représentation du dispositif d'introduction 5 de l'arme a été volontairement schématisée, étant donné qu'il est propre au type d'arme considéré et que le dispositif de stockage 3 et le dispositif de transfert intermédiaire 9 forment un ensemble qui peut coopérer avec différents types de dispositifs d'introduction.The representation of the introducer 5 of the weapon was voluntarily schematized, given that it is specific to the type of weapon considered and that the storage device 3 and transfer device intermediate 9 form a unit which can cooperate with different types of introducers.

Le dispositif de stockage 3 représenté à la figure 1 comprend un conteneur 10 ayant la forme d'un parallélépipède rectangle. Deux magasins G1 et G2 contenant les munitions M1 et M2 sont agencés à l'intérieur du conteneur 10.The storage device 3 shown in the Figure 1 comprises a container 10 having the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. Two stores G1 and G2 containing the munitions M1 and M2 are arranged at inside the container 10.

Les deux magasins G1 et G2 sont aménagés de part et d'autre d'une cloison verticale centrale 12 qui partage longitudinalement le volume intérieur du conteneur 10 en deux parties. Le conteneur 10 s'étend sur une longueur qui est supérieure à la longueur des munitions M1 et M2.The two stores G1 and G2 are fitted out on either side of a central vertical partition 12 which longitudinally shares the interior volume of the container 10 in two parts. The container 10 extends over a length that is greater than the length of M1 and M2 ammunition.

Deux couloirs verticaux respectivement externe 15 et interne 17 sont délimités dans chaque magasin G1 et G2 au moyen d'une paroi verticale intermédiaire 19 parallèle à la paroi centrale 12. Two vertical corridors respectively external 15 and internal 17 are delimited in each store G1 and G2 by means of a vertical wall intermediate 19 parallel to the central wall 12.

Plus précisément, pour le magasin G1 par exemple :

  • le couloir externe 15 est délimité entre la paroi longitudinale verticale 10a du conteneur 10 qui borde le magasin G1 et la paroi verticale intermédiaire 19 de ce magasin G1, et
  • le couloir interne 17 est délimité entre la paroi verticale intermédiaire 19 du magasin G1 et la paroi verticale centrale 12 qui sépare les deux magasins G1 et G2.
More specifically, for store G1 for example:
  • the external corridor 15 is delimited between the vertical longitudinal wall 10a of the container 10 which borders the store G1 and the intermediate vertical wall 19 of this store G1, and
  • the internal corridor 17 is delimited between the intermediate vertical wall 19 of the store G1 and the central vertical wall 12 which separates the two stores G1 and G2.

Les deux couloirs 15 et 17 du magasin G1 ont une largeur qui est légèrement supérieure au diamètre des munitions qu'ils doivent stocker. A leurs extrémités inférieures, les deux couloirs 15 et 17 communiquent entre eux par une partie semi-circulaire 20 ménagée dans la paroi de fond du conteneur 10. A leurs extrémités supérieures, les deux couloirs 15 et 17 débouchent dans une même ouverture d'entrée/sortie 22 ménagée à la partie supérieure du conteneur 10.The two corridors 15 and 17 of store G1 have a width which is slightly greater than the diameter of the ammunition they must store. At their ends lower, the two lanes 15 and 17 communicate between them by a semi-circular part 20 formed in the bottom wall of the container 10. At their ends upper, the two corridors 15 and 17 lead into the same inlet / outlet opening 22 provided in the part top of container 10.

L'aménagement du magasin G2 est identique à celui du magasin G1, et les deux couloirs externe 15 et interne 17 du magasin G2 débouchent également, à leurs extrémités supérieures, dans la même ouverture d'entrée/ sortie 22 que ceux du magasin G1.The layout of the G2 store is identical to that of store G1, and the two external corridors 15 and internal 17 of the G2 store also lead to their upper ends, in the same inlet opening / exit 22 than those of store G1.

Les munitions M1 et M2 sont destinées à être stockées horizontalement et les unes sur les autres dans les couloirs 15 et 17 des deux magasins G1 et G2, les munitions n'étant pas maillonnées entre elles.M1 and M2 ammunition are intended to be stored horizontally and on top of each other in corridors 15 and 17 of the two stores G1 and G2, the ammunition not linked together.

Chaque magasin G1 et G2 est équipé d'un moyen à déplacement bidirectionnel pour supporter et déplacer les munitions M1 ou M2 à l'intérieur du magasin.Each store G1 and G2 is equipped with a means bidirectional movement to support and move M1 or M2 ammunition inside the store.

Dans l'exemple de réalisation représenté sur les différentes figures, ce moyen à déplacement bidirectionnel est constitué par un convoyeur 25 à deux chaínes sans fin 27. Les deux chaínes 27 de chaque convoyeur 25 s'étendent parallèlement l'une à l'autre et s'enroulent chacune sur deux pignons respectivement supérieur 29 et inférieur 31. Les pignons 29 et 31 partagent chaque chaíne 27 en deux brins et sont agencés de manière à ce qu'un brin de la chaíne 27 puisse cheminer librement dans le couloir externe 15 du magasin associé G1 ou G2, alors que l'autre brin de cette chaíne 27 puisse cheminer librement dans le couloir interne 17 dudit magasin G1 ou G2. Les deux pignons supérieurs 29 des deux chaínes 27 sont supportés et solidaires en rotation d'un même arbre 29a, et les deux pignons inférieurs 31 sont également supportés et solidaires d'un même arbre 31a, de manière à ce que les deux chaínes 27 de chaque convoyeur 25 soit entraínées en synchronisme. Les extrémités des arbres 29a et 31a de chaque convoyeur 25 sont logées dans des paliers 33 supportés par les parois latérales du conteneur 10, par exemple.In the embodiment shown on the different figures, this means of displacement bidirectional consists of a conveyor 25 two endless chains 27. The two chains 27 of each conveyor 25 extend parallel to each other and each wind on two pinions respectively upper 29 and lower 31. Sprockets 29 and 31 share each chain 27 in two strands and are arranged so that a strand of chain 27 can roam freely in the external corridor 15 of the store associated G1 or G2, while the other strand of this chain 27 can move freely in the corridor internal 17 of said store G1 or G2. The two gables upper 29 of the two chains 27 are supported and integral in rotation with the same shaft 29a, and the two lower gears 31 are also supported and integral with the same tree 31a, so that the two chains 27 of each conveyor 25 is driven in synchronism. The ends of the shafts 29a and 31a of each conveyor 25 are housed in bearings 33 supported by the side walls of the container 10, by example.

Les deux chaínes sans fin 27 de chaque convoyeur 25 comportent des taquets radiaux 35 qui sont destinés à supporter les munitions M1 ou M2.The two endless chains 27 of each conveyor 25 have radial lugs 35 which are intended to support M1 or M2 ammunition.

Le dispositif intermédiaire 9 pour transférer les munitions de l'un des magasins G1 ou G2 vers le dispositif d'introduction 5 de l'arme et vice versa, comprend également un moyen à déplacement bidirectionnel qui est constitué par une roue étoilée 37.The intermediate device 9 for transferring ammunition from one of the G1 or G2 stores towards the device for introducing the weapon 5 and vice versa, also includes bidirectional displacement means which is constituted by a star wheel 37.

Cette roue étoilée 37 comprend deux étoiles 39 à quatre branches 40, qui sont supportées et solidaires en rotation d'un arbre porteur 41. Les deux étoiles 39 sont séparées l'une de l'autre d'une distance inférieure à la longueur des munitions M1 et M2 de manière à supporter les munitions.This star wheel 37 includes two stars 39 with four branches 40, which are supported and integral in rotation of a carrier shaft 41. The two stars 39 are separated from each other by a lesser distance the length of the ammunition M1 and M2 so that bear ammunition.

La roue étoilée 37 est montée dans l'ouverture supérieure d'entrée/sortie 22 du conteneur 10 pour coopérer avec les munitions du magasin G1 ou G2. L'arbre 41 qui porte la roue étoilée 37 est supporté en rotation par le conteneur 10 et s'étend parallèlement aux arbres 29a et 31a des deux convoyeurs 25.Star wheel 37 is mounted in the opening upper inlet / outlet 22 of container 10 for cooperate with the ammunition of the store G1 or G2. The shaft 41 which carries the star wheel 37 is supported in rotation by the container 10 and extends parallel to the shafts 29a and 31a of the two conveyors 25.

L'ouverture d'entrée/sortie 22 du conteneur 10 est en partie bordée par un carter 43 en forme d'arc-de-cercle qui entoure partiellement la roue étoilée 37 du côté du magasin G1. Il est à noter que la distance séparant le fond de chaque branche 40 des étoiles 39 et la paroi interne du carter 43 est à peine supérieure au diamètre des munitions M1 et M2.The inlet / outlet opening 22 of the container 10 is partly bordered by a casing 43 in the form of an arc which partially surrounds the star wheel 37 of the side of store G1. Note that the distance separating the bottom of each branch 40 from the stars 39 and the internal wall of the casing 43 is barely greater than the diameter of munitions M1 and M2.

La roue étoilée 37 et les convoyeurs 25 doivent être commandés en synchronisme, sachant qu'en fonctionnement l'un ou l'autre des magasins G1 et G2 est sélectionné.The star wheel 37 and the conveyors 25 must be ordered synchronously, knowing that either of stores G1 and G2 is selected.

Il est donc prévu des moyens pour sélectionner et commander en synchronisme la roue étoilée 37 avec l'un ou l'autre des convoyeurs 25 des deux magasins G1 ou G2.Means are therefore provided for selecting and synchronously control the star wheel 37 with one either of the conveyors 25 of the two stores G1 or G2.

Ces moyens comprennent au moins (figures 1 et 4):

  • un pignon d'entraínement 45 supporté et solidaire de l'arbre 41 de la roue étoilée 37,
  • un pignon d'entraínement 47 lié en rotation avec l'arbre 29a du convoyeur 25 du magasin G1 et mobile en translation sur cet arbre 29a au moyen d'un dispositif d'accouplement 48 qui met ou non en prise le pignon d'entraínement 47 avec le pignon d'entraínement 45 de la roue étoilée 37,
  • un pignon d'entraínement 49 lié en rotation avec l'arbre 29a du convoyeur 25 du magasin G2 et mobile en translation sur cet arbre 29a au moyen d'un dispositif d'accouplement 50 qui met ou non en prise le pignon d'entraínement 49 avec le pignon d'entraínement 45 de la roue étoilée 37, et
  • un dispositif de commande unique 52 qui agit sur les deux dispositifs d'accouplement 48 et 50 de manière à ce que le pignon d'entraínement 45'de la roue étoilée ne soit en prise qu'avec l'un ou l'autre des pignons d'entraínement 47 et 49 des deux convoyeurs 25.
These means include at least (Figures 1 and 4):
  • a drive pinion 45 supported and integral with the shaft 41 of the star wheel 37,
  • a drive pinion 47 linked in rotation with the shaft 29a of the conveyor 25 of the store G1 and movable in translation on this shaft 29a by means of a coupling device 48 which puts or does not engage the drive pinion 47 with the drive pinion 45 of the star wheel 37,
  • a drive pinion 49 linked in rotation with the shaft 29a of the conveyor 25 of the store G2 and movable in translation on this shaft 29a by means of a coupling device 50 which either engages or not the drive pinion 49 with the drive pinion 45 of the star wheel 37, and
  • a single control device 52 which acts on the two coupling devices 48 and 50 so that the drive pinion 45 ′ of the star wheel is only engaged with one or the other of the pinions drive 47 and 49 of the two conveyors 25.

Les deux dispositifs d'accouplement 48 et 50 sont identiques et seul le dispositif 48 est décrit ci-après.The two coupling devices 48 and 50 are identical and only the device 48 is described below.

Le dispositif d'accouplement 48 comprend un fourreau 54 qui est monté coulissant sur l'arbre 29a du convoyeur 25 du magasin G1 au moyen de cannelures 56. Le pignon d'entraínement 47 est supporté et solidaire du fourreau 54.The coupling device 48 comprises a sheath 54 which is slidably mounted on the shaft 29a of the conveyor 25 of store G1 by means of grooves 56. The drive pinion 47 is supported and integral with the scabbard 54.

Le dispositif de commande 52 comprend une tige 58 terminée à chaque extrémité par une fourchette 60 qui vient s'engager dans une gorge annulaire 62 ménagée à la périphérie de chaque fourreau 54. La tige 58 est monté sur un pivot 65 pour déplacer en translation les deux fourreaux 54 suivant deux directions opposées. De cette manière, lorsque le pignon d'entraínement 47 du convoyeur 25 du magasin G1 est en prise avec le pignon 45 de la roue étoilée 37, le pignon d'entraínement 49 du convoyeur 25 du magasin G2 n'est pas en prise avec le pignon 45 de la roue étoilée 37, et vice versa. Dans ces conditions, lorsque la roue étoilée 37 tourne, seul l'un des deux convoyeurs 25 est entraíné en synchronisme avec le mouvement de rotation de la roue étoilée 37.The control device 52 comprises a rod 58 terminated at each end by a fork 60 which engages in an annular groove 62 formed at the periphery of each sleeve 54. The rod 58 is mounted on a pivot 65 to move the two in translation sleeves 54 in two opposite directions. Of this way, when the drive pinion 47 of the conveyor 25 of store G1 is engaged with pinion 45 of the star wheel 37, the drive pinion 49 of the conveyor 25 of store G2 is not engaged with the pinion 45 of star wheel 37, and vice versa. In these conditions, when the star wheel 37 turns, only one of the two conveyors 25 is driven in synchronism with the rotational movement of the star wheel 37.

Enfin, en se reportant à la figure 6, il est prévu un volet pivotant de guidage 70 qui est situé au niveau de l'ouverture d'entrée/sortie 22 du conteneur 10. Ce volet 70 est positionné sous la roue étoilée 37 et est solidaire d'un arbre 72 qui s'étend parallèlement à l'arbre 41 de la roue étoilée 41. L'arbre 72 est supporté en rotation par le conteneur 10. Ce volet 70 s'étend sur une longueur inférieure à la distance séparant les deux étoiles 39, et peut basculer entre deux positions suivant que le magasin G1 ou G2 est sélectionné. Dans chacune de ses deux positions, le volet 70 est immobilisé par au moins un poussoir à billes 74 par exemple. A cet effet, l'arbre 72 solidaire du volet 70 supporte vers une extrémité un levier radial 76 destiné à coopérer avec les deux poussoirs à billes 74 supportés par une cloison du conteneur 10.Finally, referring to FIG. 6, it is provided with a pivoting guide flap 70 which is located at the level of the inlet / outlet opening 22 of the container 10. This flap 70 is positioned under the star wheel 37 and is secured to a shaft 72 which extends parallel to the shaft 41 of the star wheel 41. The shaft 72 is supported in rotation by the container 10. This flap 70 extends over a length less than the distance separating the two stars 39, and can switch between two positions according to whether magazine G1 or G2 is selected. In each of its two positions, the flap 70 is immobilized by at minus a ball pusher 74 for example. To this end, the shaft 72 integral with the flap 70 supports towards a end a radial lever 76 intended to cooperate with the two ball pushers 74 supported by a partition of the container 10.

Il va être maintenant décrit le fonctionnement du système d'alimentation.The operation will now be described. of the power system.

Dans un premier temps, des munitions M1 sont stockées dans le magasin G1 et des munitions M2 sont stockées dans le magasin G2. Chaque magasin G1 et G2 est équipé d'une trappe d'accès (non représentée) pour charger les munitions dans les couloirs verticaux respectivement externe 15 et interne 17 de chaque magasin G1 et G2. Dans chaque couloir, une munition M1 ou M2 est supportée par deux taquets 35 des deux chaínes sans fin 27 du convoyeur 25 associé.First, M1 ammunition is stored in store G1 and M2 ammunition are stored in store G2. Each G1 and G2 store is equipped with an access hatch (not shown) for load ammunition in vertical lanes respectively external 15 and internal 17 of each store G1 and G2. In each corridor, an M1 or M2 ammunition is supported by two cleats 35 of the two chains without end 27 of the associated conveyor 25.

Lorsque l'arme est opérationnelle, le tireur peut sélectionner le magasin G1 ou le magasin G2 en fonction de la nature de l'objectif à atteindre. Si le tireur sélectionne le magasin G2 pour tirer des munitions M2 et que le pignon d'entraínement 49 du convoyeur 25 du magasin G2 n'est pas en prise avec le pignon d'entraínement 45 de la roue étoilée 37, le tireur agit sur le dispositif de commande 52 pour mettre en prise les deux pignons 45 et 49 par suite du pivotement de la tige 58, ce qui entraíne le désaccouplement du pignon d'entraínement 47 du convoyeur 25 du magasin G1 et du pignon d'entraínement 45 de la roue étoilée 37.When the weapon is operational, the shooter can select store G1 or store G2 by depending on the nature of the objective to be achieved. If the shooter selects store G2 to fire M2 ammunition and that the drive pinion 49 of conveyor 25 of store G2 is not engaged with the drive pinion 45 of the star wheel 37, the shooter acts on the control device 52 to set taken the two pinions 45 and 49 as a result of pivoting of the rod 58, which causes the uncoupling of the drive pinion 47 of the conveyor 25 of the store G1 and of the drive pinion 45 of the star wheel 37.

L'arbre 41 de la roue étoilée 37 est commandé en rotation, ce qui a pour effet d'entraíner le convoyeur 25 du magasin G2 en synchronisme avec l'arbre 41. En se reportant à la figure 2, les munitions M2 contenues dans le couloir externe 15 ou couloir de sortie du magasin G2 montent et sont acheminées l'une après l'autre vers l'ouverture d'entrée/ sortie 22 pour être reprises par les branches 40 de la roue étoilée 37 et transférées vers la chambre 6 du dispositif d'introduction 5 à la cadence de tir de l'arme. La première munition M2 qui sort du magasin G2 prend appui sur une face du volet 70 pour le faire basculer. Le basculement du volet 70 est limité par le poussoir à billes 74 situé du côté du magasin G1. Le volet 70 permet ainsi de retenir la munition M2 qui se trouve alors sous la roue étoilée 37. La munition M2 vient s'engager en partie entre deux branches 40 axialement alignées des deux étoiles 39 de la roue étoilée 37 et est ensuite guidée par le carter 43 jusqu'à ce que la munition M2 passe à la partie supérieure de la roue étoilée 37 avant d'être évacuée vers le dispositif d'introduction 5 de l'arme et être chargée dans la chambre 6.The shaft 41 of the star wheel 37 is controlled in rotation, which has the effect of causing the conveyor 25 of store G2 in synchronism with tree 41. Referring to FIG. 2, the M2 ammunition contained in the external corridor 15 or G2 store exit corridor go up and are routed one after the other to the entrance opening / exit 22 to be taken up by branches 40 of the star wheel 37 and transferred to chamber 6 of the introduction device 5 to the rate of fire of tear. The first M2 ammunition to come out of the G2 store is supported on one side of the flap 70 to do so to toggle. The tilting of the shutter 70 is limited by the ball pusher 74 located on the side of the magazine G1. The flap 70 thus makes it possible to retain the munition M2 which is then found under the star wheel 37. Ammunition M2 partially engages between two branches 40 axially aligned of the two stars 39 of the wheel star 37 and is then guided by the housing 43 to what the M2 ammunition goes to the top of the star wheel 37 before being evacuated to the device introduction 5 of the weapon and be loaded into the room 6.

Pendant ce temps, les munitions M2 contenues dans le couloir interne 17 du magasin G2 descendent pour passer ensuite dans le couloir externe 15 qui constitue le couloir de sortie du magasin G2.Meanwhile, the M2 ammunition contained in the internal corridor 17 of the store G2 go down to then go through the external corridor 15 which constitutes the exit corridor of store G2.

Le mouvement de rotation de la roue étoilée (37) est commandé par le cycle de fonctionnement de l'arme. Le mouvement de rotation n'est donc pas continu, puisque ce mouvement doit être momentanément interrompu pendant la phase de tir de munition chargée dans la chambre 6 de l'arme 7.The rotational movement of the wheel star (37) is controlled by the operating cycle of the weapon. The rotational movement is therefore not continuous, since this movement must be momentary interrupted during the loaded ammunition firing phase in chamber 6 of weapon 7.

Lorsque le tireur décide de cesser le tir des munitions M2 pour tirer des munitions M1, il doit au préalable ramener les munitions M2 qui sont éventuellement en cours de transfert vers le dispositif d'introduction 5 de l'arme. Pour cela, le tireur commande l'arbre 41 de la roue étoilée 37 dans un sens de rotation inverse pour ramener les munitions M2 dans le magasin G2.When the shooter decides to stop shooting M2 ammunition to fire M1 ammunition, it must first bring back the M2 ammunition which is possibly being transferred to the device introduction 5 of the weapon. For this, the shooter commands the shaft 41 of the star wheel 37 in a direction of rotation reverse to bring M2 ammunition back into store G2.

Ensuite, pour sélectionner le magasin G1, le tireur agit sur le dispositif de commande 52 pour entraíner en synchronisme la roue étoilée 37 et le convoyeur 25 du magasin G1, c'est-à-dire accoupler le pignon d'entraínement 45 de la roue étoilée 37 et le pignon d'entraínement 47 du convoyeur 25 du magasin G1. Enfin, le tireur commande la rotation de l'arbre 41 de la roue étoilée 37 pour entraíner le convoyeur 25 du magasin G1. Les munitions M1 montent et sortent du magasin G1 par le conduit interne 17, alors que les munitions M1 du conduit externe 15 descendent et passent ensuite dans le conduit interne 17 ou couloir de sortie. La première munition M1 qui sort du magasin G1 repousse le volet 70 et le fait basculer vers son autre position où il est immobilisé par le poussoir à billes 74 situé du côté du magasin G2. Comme précédemment, le carter 43 permet de guider les munitions M1 entre la partie inférieure et la partie supérieure de la roue étoilée 37.Then, to select store G1, the shooter acts on the control device 52 to drive the star wheel 37 and the conveyor 25 from store G1, i.e. coupling the drive pinion 45 of the star wheel 37 and the drive pinion 47 of the conveyor 25 of the store G1. Finally, the shooter controls the rotation of the shaft 41 of the star wheel 37 to drive the conveyor 25 of the store G1. M1 ammunition goes in and out of store G1 via internal conduit 17, while the ammunition M1 of the external conduit 15 descend and pass then in the internal conduit 17 or outlet corridor. The first M1 ammunition that leaves the G1 store regrows the shutter 70 and makes it tilt to its other position where it is immobilized by the ball pusher 74 located on the side of store G2. As before, the casing 43 allows to guide the ammunition M1 between the part lower and upper part of the star wheel 37.

Lorsque le magasin G1 est sélectionné, le volet 70 assure seulement une fonction de guidage des munitions M1. En effet, le conduit interne 17 du magasin G1, qui fait office de conduit de sortie, est situé sensiblement en regard de la roue étoilée 37. Par contre, lorsque le magasin G2 est sélectionné, le volet 70 assure une fonction de support pour retenir les munitions M2 étant donné que le conduit externe 15 ou conduit de sortie est axialement décalé par rapport à la roue étoilée 37.When store G1 is selected, the flap 70 only provides a guiding function for M1 ammunition. Indeed, the internal duct 17 of the store G1, which acts as an outlet duct, is located substantially opposite the star wheel 37. By however, when store G2 is selected, the flap 70 provides a support function for retaining the ammunition M2 since the external conduit 15 or outlet duct is axially offset from the star wheel 37.

Le fonctionnement réversible de la roue étoilée 37 suppose que son positionnement et ses dimensions, en particulier celles des branches 40 des étoiles 39 ainsi que les formes de ces branches, soient calculés de façon précise en fonction notamment du diamètre des munitions M1 et M2 d'une part, et en tenant compte du fait que les munitions M1 du magasin G1 sortent par le conduit interne 17, alors que les munitions M2 du magasin G2 sortent par le conduit externe 15.Reversible wheel operation star 37 assumes that its positioning and dimensions, in particular those of branches 40 of stars 39 as well as the shapes of these branches, be precisely calculated based in particular on the diameter of the ammunition M1 and M2 on the one hand, and taking account of the fact that the M1 ammunition from the G1 store comes out through the internal conduit 17, while the M2 munitions of the store G2 exit through the external conduit 15.

Bien entendu, l'invention n'est pas limitée au mode de réalisation qui vient d'être décrit. En particulier, les moyens de sélection du magasin G1 ou G2 et de commande en synchronisme de la roue étoilée 37 avec le convoyeur 25 du magasin sélectionné peuvent être remplacés par des moyens techniquement équivalents.Of course, the invention is not limited to embodiment which has just been described. In particular, the means of selecting the store G1 or G2 and control in synchronism of the star wheel 37 with the conveyor 25 of the selected store can be replaced by technically equivalent means.

Claims (11)

  1. An ammunition feed system for a small or medium calibre fire arm, of the type comprising a munition (M1, M2) storage device (3), a loading device (5) belonging to the weapon to load the munitions one by one into a firing chamber (6), and an intermediate device (9) to transfer the munitions between the storage device (3) and the loading device (5) of the weapon, characterised in that the storage device (3) is constituted of a single container (10) in which two ammunition racks (G1, G2) have been arranged each containing different munitions which are not chain-linked together, each rack (G1, G2) comprising a two-way conveyor (25) which supports and moves the munitions (M1, M2) inside the rack, and in that the intermediate transfer device (9) also comprises a two-way transport means (37) common to the two racks (G1, G2) and designed either to transfer the munitions from one or other of the racks (G1, G2) towards the loading device (5) of the weapon, or to bring back to their original rack those munitions which are in the process of being transferred towards the loading device (5) of the weapon, and in that the feed system also comprises means to select and control the two-way transport means of the intermediate transfer device (9) simultaneously with one or other of the conveyors (25) of the two racks (G1, G2).
  2. A feed system according to Claim 1, characterised in that the two-way transport means (37) of the intermediate transfer device (9) is composed of a starwheel carried by a shaft (41), and the conveyor (25) of each rack (G1, G2) is an endless chain conveyor (27).
  3. A feed system according to Claim 2, characterised in that each rack (G1, G2) comprises a vertical outer passage (15) and a vertical inner passage (17) parallel to one another, which are separated from one another by an intermediate partition (19), the two passages (15, 17) communicating with each other by their lower ends and opening out into a common entrance / exit opening (22) located in the upper part of the container (10).
  4. A feed system according to Claim 3, characterised in that the starwheel (37) supported by a shaft (41) is located at the entrance / exit opening (22) to work with the munitions from one or other of the two racks (G1, G2).
  5. A feed system according to any one of the above Claims, characterised in that the entrance / exit opening (22) of the container (10) is partly bordered by a casing (43) to guide the munitions (M1, M2) supported by the starwheel (37).
  6. A feed system according to Claim 4 or 5, characterised in that it comprises a swinging guiding flap (70) located at the entrance / exit opening (22), this flap (70) being positioned between the two racks (G1 and G2) and under the starwheel (37) to guide the munitions (M1 or M2), and in that the flap (70) takes up a first or second position according to the rack which has been selected and swings towards the said position under the action of the movement of the first munition (M1 or M2) which exits from the selected rack (G1 or G2).
  7. A feed system according to Claim 3 or 4, characterised in that each conveyor (25) comprises two endless chains (27) each wound around two upper (29) and lower (31) drive wheels , these two endless chains (27) moving in the two outer (15) and inner (17) passages of the relevant rack (G1, G2) and being fitted with catches (35) to support the munitions (M1, M2).
  8. A feed system according to Claim 7, characterised in that the two upper drive wheels (29) of the two chains (27) of each conveyor (25) are supported by and integral with a same drive shaft (29a), and in that the two lower drive wheels (31) of the two chains (27) of each conveyor (25) are supported by and integral with a same shaft (31a), and in that the shafts (29a, 31a) extend in parallel to the shaft (41) of the starwheel (37).
  9. A feed system according to any one of Claims 2 to 7, characterised in that the means to select and control the starwheel (37) simultaneously with one or other of the conveyors (25) of the two racks (G1, G2) comprise a drive wheel (45) supported by and integral with the shaft (41) of the starwheel (37), two drive wheels (47, 49) respectively working with the two conveyors (25) by means of two coupling devices (48, 50), and a single control device (52) to act on the two coupling devices (48, 50) so as to mesh the drive wheel of the starwheel (37) with one or other of the drive wheels (47, 49) of the two conveyors (25).
  10. A feed system according to Claim 9, characterised in that each coupling device (48, 50) comprises a bush (54) mounted sliding by means of ribbing (56) on the drive shaft (29a) of the relevant conveyor (25), the bush (54) supporting the drive wheel (47, 49) of the relevant conveyor (25).
  11. A feed system according to Claim 10, characterised in that the control device (52) which acts on the two coupling devices (48, 50) comprises a rod (58) which connects the two bushes (54) and which is hinged on a pivot (65) to move the two bushes (54) in translation in two opposite directions.
EP95401645A 1994-07-22 1995-07-07 Ammunition feeding system for small or medium calibre arms Expired - Lifetime EP0694750B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9409095 1994-07-22
FR9409095A FR2722871B1 (en) 1994-07-22 1994-07-22 AMMUNITION SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR A SMALL OR MEDIUM CALIBER FIREARMS

Publications (2)

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EP0694750A1 EP0694750A1 (en) 1996-01-31
EP0694750B1 true EP0694750B1 (en) 1999-09-29

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US (1) US5675110A (en)
EP (1) EP0694750B1 (en)
DE (1) DE69512483T2 (en)
FR (1) FR2722871B1 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE69512483T2 (en) 2000-02-03
FR2722871B1 (en) 1996-10-11
FR2722871A1 (en) 1996-01-26
DE69512483D1 (en) 1999-11-04
US5675110A (en) 1997-10-07
EP0694750A1 (en) 1996-01-31

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