EP1302741B1 - High explosive projectile - Google Patents

High explosive projectile Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1302741B1
EP1302741B1 EP02292384A EP02292384A EP1302741B1 EP 1302741 B1 EP1302741 B1 EP 1302741B1 EP 02292384 A EP02292384 A EP 02292384A EP 02292384 A EP02292384 A EP 02292384A EP 1302741 B1 EP1302741 B1 EP 1302741B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
explosive
shell
ammunition
sector
vicinity
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
EP02292384A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1302741A1 (en
Inventor
Michel Vives
Jean-Paul Duparc
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
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Giat Industries SA
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Publication date
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Publication of EP1302741A1 publication Critical patent/EP1302741A1/en
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Publication of EP1302741B1 publication Critical patent/EP1302741B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
    • F42B12/00—Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material
    • F42B12/02—Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect
    • F42B12/20—Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect of high-explosive type
    • F42B12/22—Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect of high-explosive type with fragmentation-hull construction
    • F42B12/32—Projectiles, missiles or mines characterised by the warhead, the intended effect, or the material characterised by the warhead or the intended effect of high-explosive type with fragmentation-hull construction the hull or case comprising a plurality of discrete bodies, e.g. steel balls, embedded therein or disposed around the explosive charge

Definitions

  • the technical field of the invention is that of explosive ordnance.
  • These ammunition include an explosive charge disposed in an envelope surrounding an axis of the ammunition.
  • a so-called loaded charge munition which comprises a deformable coating by the shock wave of the explosive.
  • Such a munition provides, depending on the geometry of the coating, a hollow charge jet or a forged core.
  • ammunition generating shards include a pre-fragmented envelope that projects a sheaf of shards during the initiation.
  • the spatial distribution of the sheaf is generally 360 ° around the axis of the ammunition.
  • a focus of the splinters is not sufficient to avoid such collateral effect since the envelope of the ammunition is pre-fragmented over 360 ° and thus projects the fragments in all the space surrounding the envelope.
  • the munition according to the invention makes it possible to control in a more efficient manner the distribution of the chips towards the threat to be destroyed. It thus avoids the effects collateral that could damage the vehicle to be protected or injure the troops that accompany it.
  • the invention also proposes a modular operation munition whose end effect can be programmed before firing or on trajectory according to the characteristics of the threat.
  • the munition according to the invention also makes it possible to optimize the mass of explosive carried away. This results in a lighter ammunition whose end efficiency is equivalent to that of known ammunition.
  • the subject of the invention is an explosive munition comprising an explosive charge disposed in an envelope surrounding an axis of the munition and at least a first initiator for this charge, the envelope comprising at least two sectors, a first sector comprising means ensuring the formation of chips when a first initiator which is disposed in the vicinity of a second sector is initiated, the second sector being devoid of means ensuring the formation of fragments, ammunition characterized in that the envelope comprises a case formed of at least two contiguous shells and in contact with the explosive charge, the first sector being constituted by a first of the two shells which is made of a first material intended to generate splinters, the second sector being constituted by a second of the two shells which is made of a second material of a different nature from that of the first material.
  • the first sector may preferably cover an angle less than or equal to 180 ° around an axis of the ammunition.
  • the first material may have a density greater than or equal to 7 while the second material will have a density less than or equal to 3.
  • the first material may thus be made of steel or tungsten and the second material may be chosen from the following materials: plastic material, composite materials, aluminum.
  • the initiation means may comprise at least one second initiator.
  • the second initiator may be disposed in the vicinity of the first shell, the initiation of this second initiator ensuring the explosion of the loading with a blast effect.
  • the munition may comprise a concave coating disposed at a first end of the envelope and applied to the explosive charge, the second initiator being disposed in the vicinity of a second end of the envelope.
  • the munition may comprise at least three initiators, one disposed in the vicinity of the first shell, another disposed in the vicinity of the second shell and another disposed adjacent an end of the shell.
  • the initiators will be connected to a control means allowing the choice of one or the other of the initiators.
  • the explosive charge may be delimited by two planes and the first shell, the space between the second shell and the two planes being then occupied by a wedging and / or a safety device and arming.
  • an explosive ordnance 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention comprises an explosive charge 2 disposed in a casing 3 surrounding an axis 4 of the munition.
  • the envelope 3 is globally cylindrical with axis 4.
  • the munition 1 shown here also comprises a propellant 5 which is not shown in detail and which comprises in a conventional manner a propellant charge 6 in the form of a block disposed in a chamber extended by a nozzle (not shown).
  • This thruster is not the subject of the present invention and it is possible to define an ammunition according to the invention devoid of propellant.
  • the ammunition is finally equipped with a tail (not shown) to ensure its stabilization in roll.
  • the ammunition comprises at least a first initiator 7 which makes it possible to detonate the explosive charge 2.
  • This first initiator 7 is disposed at a generatrix of the envelope 3. In a conventional manner it is connected to a security device and arming (not shown) that can be secured to the shell of the ammunition.
  • the first initiator 7 is disposed in the vicinity of the second sector 3b of the envelope.
  • the detonation wave initiated by the initiator 7 will progress in the explosive charge 2 in a substantially radial direction towards the first sector 3a, thus ensuring an optimal speed for the projection of the chips.
  • the envelope 3 comprises a holster formed of two shells 8a and 8b which are contiguous and which surround the explosive charge 2.
  • the two shells 8a and 8b are hemi cylindrical .
  • Each sector 3a, 3b therefore covers an angle of 180 ° around the axis 4 of the munition.
  • the two shells 8a and 8b are arranged in a tube 9 which will be made of a light material, for example aluminum, plastic or composite.
  • the first sector 3a is constituted by the first shell 8a.
  • This first shell is made of a first material for generating splinters.
  • this first shell 8a can be made of steel or of dense material (for example tungsten).
  • the first material may be weakened to ensure preforming of the chips.
  • the embrittlement may conventionally be obtained by mechanically realizing grooves forming a network having for mesh the desired size for the chips. It will also be possible to achieve embrittlement by electron bombardment or localized heat treatment along such a network.
  • inserts metal or plastic grid placed between the first shell and the tube 9 or embedded in the material of the tube 9.
  • the second sector 3b is constituted by the second shell 8b which is made of a second material which is different in nature from that of the first material.
  • a material that does not generate or has a small amount of chips during the initiation of the charge will be chosen. It will suffice to adopt a low density material (less than or equal to 3000 kg / m3) which will ensure the mechanical strength of the assembly but which will generate during operation that flakes low vulnerability.
  • the second shell 8b of a plastics material, for example a polyamide.
  • the second shell could also be made of a composite material, such as a filament winding or aluminum.
  • a radial pin 10 ensures the axial and angular positioning of the two half-shells with respect to the tube 9.
  • the first initiator 7 is constituted by a tablet of a detonating composition, housed in a hole arranged in the explosive charge 2.
  • This tablet is itself initiated by a detonator 11 which is connected by a wire 12 to a firing control device (not shown) integral with the launching system (not shown) or secured to the munition itself.
  • the detonator is applied in contact with the initiator tablet 7 through a radial orifice 13 provided in the second shell 8b.
  • a closure cap 19 is screwed or glued to the tube 9 and it ensures the axial connection of the explosive charge and the shells 8a and 8b with respect to the tube 9.
  • the assembly formed by the initiator 11, the explosive charge 2 and the first shell 8a is a charge generating chips.
  • An explosive block is produced, for example hexogen or octogen, inside which is arranged a radial hole intended to receive the initiation means.
  • the initiation means 7 are placed inside this hole and the explosive is placed inside the two shells 8a and 8b, making sure that the initiator 7 is opposite the hole 13 of the shell. 8b.
  • the shells 8a, 8b equipped with the explosive charge are slid inside the tube 9, making sure to correctly orient the load angularly.
  • the pin 10 is then placed and glued in the tube to ensure the axial connection of the load, the shells and the tube.
  • the detonator 11 equipped with its wire 12 is placed in the tube 9 and facing the initiator 7.
  • the munition thus described operates as follows.
  • the initiator 7 is triggered on the trajectory of the munition by a control command transmitted by the wire 12.
  • the explosive charge 2 is then put into detonation.
  • the detonation wave progresses substantially radially from the second shell 8b to the first shell 8a. This one breaks up in the form of fragments that are projected at a speed of the order of 1800 m / s.
  • the second shell is made of a lightweight material that does not generate splinters or little vulvar chips is ensured to obtain an effective sheaf according to a well defined sector which is delimited at most by the directions d1 and d2 visible in the figure 2.
  • the munition will advantageously be equipped with a rocket (not shown) of radar or infrared technology and having a direction of detection parallel or close to the direction of effectiveness of the splinter charge. This direction is the bisector of the angle formed by the lines d1 and d2 ( Figure 2).
  • the rocket will be connected to initiator 7 and it will trigger the charge towards the threat it has detected.
  • FIG. 5 thus shows in section a munition 1 which differs from that of FIG. 2 in that the explosive charge 2 does not completely fill the volume delimited by the shells 8a and 8b.
  • Initiator 11 will be disposed at the top of the corner.
  • the plans 21a and 21b may be applied to a sheet metal cowling secured to the second shell 8b.
  • filler blocks 20a, 20b made for example of synthetic foam.
  • Such a variant makes it possible to lighten the ammunition without impairing its effectiveness. It also reduces the rear effects, the wedging 20a, 20b ensuring damping of the shock wave received by the second shell 8b.
  • the volume occupied by the wedging may also be used to house a safety and arming device.
  • FIG. 6 thus shows in section an ammunition in which the angle covered by the first sector 3a is 120 °.
  • Figures 3 and 4 show a munition according to a second embodiment of the invention.
  • This ammunition differs from that shown in Figures 1 and 2 in that it also comprises a concave coating 14 which is applied to the explosive charge 2.
  • This coating is disposed at a first end (or front end) of the envelope 3. It has a symmetry of revolution around the axis 4 of the ammunition.
  • the periphery of the coating is housed in a groove which is arranged inside the shells 8a and 8b which thus ensure the axial joining of the coating.
  • a stop ring 18 is fixed by screw to the tube 9. It ensures the axial immobilization of the shells and the load with respect to the tube 9.
  • a second initiator 15 made in the form of a tablet of a detonating composition is disposed in the vicinity of a second end of the envelope. It is housed in an axial hole arranged in the explosive charge 2.
  • This tablet 15 is itself initiated by a detonator 16 which is connected by a wire 17 to the firing device.
  • the son 12 and 17 may be grouped in the form of a strand of four son. It is also possible to use detonators 11 and 16, each equipped with a logic circuit incorporating a memory containing an address making it possible to recognize one or the other of the detonators via a communication protocol (conventional communication technique by "BUS").
  • a communication protocol conventional communication technique by "BUS"
  • the wire 17 is housed in a groove formed in the wall of the tube 9 and in a groove 24 formed in the bottom 25 of the tube 9.
  • the assembly formed by the second initiator 15, the explosive charge 2 and the coating 14 constitutes a core generating charge.
  • the triggering of the initiator 15 causes a shock wave that progresses substantially axially in the explosive charge 2. This shock wave leads to the formation of a self-wrought core by reversal of the coating 14.
  • the core is projected at a speed of the order of 2000 m / s along axis 4.
  • This ammunition therefore has two different modes of operation.
  • the munition If the first initiator 7 is triggered, the munition generates a sheaf of fragments with reduced rear and collateral effects thanks to the presence of the second shell 8b and the bottom 25 of the tube 9.
  • the munition If the second initiator 16 is triggered, the munition generates an axial core through the coating 14. There is also in this case a projection of splinters by the first shell 8a, but the speed of the chips is lower than for the ammunition of Figure 1 given the substantially axial orientation of the shock wave.
  • the choice of one or the other of the initiators 7 or 16 is provided by the firing control device secured to the launching system or the fuse of the ammunition.
  • the flash charge has an effectiveness against the missiles of which it destroys the envelope.
  • the nucleus generating charge has a perforating efficiency against the armored targets. It can be used to counter a direct attack on a target such as a vehicle or a missile reinforced warhead.
  • the munition will include a particular electronic rocket incorporating a receiver of control commands from the launch system.
  • the ammunition rocket may also be a programmable rocket that will receive at the launching system programming of the trigger time and the desired operating mode. This programming can be done by contact or by induction. The rocket may then also include means for detecting the threat.
  • the coating may be given different shapes to combine the formation of a core with that of shards. It will suffice for this to develop embrittlement at an annular peripheral zone of the coating, an axial zone ensuring the formation of a core.
  • Figures 7 and 8 show a munition according to a third embodiment of the invention.
  • This mode differs from that according to FIG. 1 in that a second initiator 22 is arranged in the vicinity of the first shell 8a.
  • This second initiator is connected by a wire 23 to the firing control device.
  • the second initiator 22 is disposed in a radial hole made in the explosive block 2 and the wire 23 is housed in a longitudinal groove machined on the explosive block 2.
  • the wire 23 is located between the explosive 2 and the first shell 8a. Thus it is not necessary to machine the latter to ensure the mounting of the second initiator 22. There is therefore no loss of the vulnerant effectiveness of the first shell.
  • the wire 23 is also housed in a groove 24 formed in the bottom 25 of the tube 9.
  • Connectors 26a, 26b can be housed at this groove to facilitate assembly of the munition.
  • the connectors will then be connected before introducing the charge into the tube 9.
  • a blast charge mode that is obtained when the second initiator is triggered is triggered.
  • the second initiator 22 is disposed substantially at the level of the first shell 8a generating chips.
  • the shock wave that it generates propagates in the load in a substantially radial direction and towards the second shell 8b.
  • the chips generated by the first shell then have a reduced speed.
  • the second shell is not designed to generate vulvar chips.
  • the only major effect obtained with this munition is therefore a blast effect which is oriented radially toward the second shell 8b and which is partially focused by the first shell 8a.
  • This blast effect can be reinforced by using an explosive charge 2 incorporating aluminum powder.
  • the blast mode of operation is more particularly used to counter kinetic energy projectiles.
  • the flash mode is used to counter missiles or rockets.
  • Figures 9 and 10 show finally a munition according to a fourth embodiment which differs from the previous ones in that the munition comprises three initiators 7, 15 and 22.
  • This munition thus has three different modes of operation: localized flash charge, charge-focused charge, core-generation charge.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Aiming, Guidance, Guns With A Light Source, Armor, Camouflage, And Targets (AREA)
  • Portable Nailing Machines And Staplers (AREA)
  • Organic Low-Molecular-Weight Compounds And Preparation Thereof (AREA)
  • Toys (AREA)
  • Drilling And Exploitation, And Mining Machines And Methods (AREA)
  • Perforating, Stamping-Out Or Severing By Means Other Than Cutting (AREA)

Abstract

Munition (1) comprises an explosive charge (2) inside a casing (3) around its axis (4), divided into two or more sectors (3a, 3b), one of which is designed to create fragments when a detonator (7) adjacent to the opposite sector is set off. <??>Preferred Features: The casing is made from at least two adjoining shells (8a, 8b), one covering an angle of 180 degrees or less, and made from a material such as steel or tungsten that breaks into fragments, and the other of a different material, such as a plastic or composite material or aluminum.

Description

Le domaine technique de l'invention est celui des munitions explosives. Ces munitions comprennent un chargement explosif disposé dans une enveloppe entourant un axe de la munition.The technical field of the invention is that of explosive ordnance. These ammunition include an explosive charge disposed in an envelope surrounding an axis of the ammunition.

On connaît une munition dite à charge formée qui comporte un revêtement déformable par l'onde de choc de l'explosif. Une telle munition fournit, en fonction de la géométrie du revêtement, un jet de charge creuse ou bien un noyau forgé.A so-called loaded charge munition is known which comprises a deformable coating by the shock wave of the explosive. Such a munition provides, depending on the geometry of the coating, a hollow charge jet or a forged core.

On connaît aussi des munitions génératrices d'éclats. Ces munitions comprennent une enveloppe pré fragmentée qui projette une gerbe d'éclats lors de l'initiation. La répartition spatiale de la gerbe d'éclats est généralement de 360° autour de l'axe de la munition.Also known are ammunition generating shards. These ammunition include a pre-fragmented envelope that projects a sheaf of shards during the initiation. The spatial distribution of the sheaf is generally 360 ° around the axis of the ammunition.

Il est connu de prévoir plusieurs initiateurs répartis autour de l'enveloppe d'une telle munition pour permettre une focalisation privilégiée des éclats suivant une ou plusieurs directions. Le brevet US5544589 décrit une telle munition.It is known to provide several initiators distributed around the envelope of such a munition to allow a privileged focus of the chips in one or more directions. US Patent 5544589 describes such an ammunition.

Cependant ces munitions connues présentent dans certains cas des inconvénients.However, these known munitions have in some cases disadvantages.

En effet on est conduit aujourd'hui pour assurer la défense rapprochée des véhicules à projeter des munitions en direction de menaces détectées telles que des missiles ou des roquettes antichar.Indeed we are driven today to ensure the close defense of vehicles to project ammunition towards detected threats such as missiles or anti-tank rockets.

Ces munitions, dont un exemple est représenté par le document US-A-3 646 888 qui couvre le préambule de la revendication 1, assurent la destruction de la menace par la projection d'éclats. Cependant cette protection est assurée à une distance réduite du véhicule à protéger (de l'ordre de 5 m). Les éclats se trouvent donc non seulement projetés vers la menace mais également en direction du véhicule à protéger ou bien des éléments de soutien entourant celui ci.These ammunition, an example of which is shown in US-A-3 646 888 which covers the preamble of claim 1, ensure the destruction of the threat by the projection of shards. However, this protection is provided at a reduced distance from the vehicle to be protected (of the order of 5 m). Splinters are thus not only projected towards the threat but also towards the vehicle to be protected or support elements surrounding it.

Une focalisation des éclats ne suffit pas à éviter un tel effet collatéral puisque l'enveloppe de la munition est pré fragmentée sur 360° et elle projette donc les éclats dans tout l'espace entourant l'enveloppe.A focus of the splinters is not sufficient to avoid such collateral effect since the envelope of the ammunition is pre-fragmented over 360 ° and thus projects the fragments in all the space surrounding the envelope.

C'est le but de l'invention que de proposer une munition permettant de pallier de tels inconvénients.It is the object of the invention to provide an ammunition to overcome such drawbacks.

Ainsi la munition selon l'invention permet de maîtriser d'une façon plus efficace la répartition des éclats vers la menace à détruire. Elle permet ainsi d'éviter les effets collatéraux susceptibles d'endommager le véhicule à protéger ou de blesser les troupes qui l'accompagnent.Thus the munition according to the invention makes it possible to control in a more efficient manner the distribution of the chips towards the threat to be destroyed. It thus avoids the effects collateral that could damage the vehicle to be protected or injure the troops that accompany it.

L'invention propose également une munition à fonctionnement modulaire dont l'effet terminal peut être programmé avant tir ou bien sur trajectoire en fonction des caractéristiques de la menace.The invention also proposes a modular operation munition whose end effect can be programmed before firing or on trajectory according to the characteristics of the threat.

La munition selon l'invention permet également d'optimiser la masse d'explosif emportée. Il en résulte une munition plus légère dont l'efficacité terminale est équivalente à celle des munitions connues.The munition according to the invention also makes it possible to optimize the mass of explosive carried away. This results in a lighter ammunition whose end efficiency is equivalent to that of known ammunition.

Ainsi l'invention a pour objet une munition explosive comprenant un chargement explosif disposé dans une enveloppe entourant un axe de la munition ainsi qu'au moins un premier initiateur pour ce chargement, l'enveloppe comprenant au moins deux secteurs, un premier secteur comportant des moyens assurant la formation d'éclats lorsqu'un premier initiateur qui est disposé au voisinage d'un deuxième secteur est initié, ce deuxième secteur étant dépourvu de moyens assurant la formation d'éclats, munition caractérisée en ce que l'enveloppe comprend un étui formé d'au moins deux coquilles jointives et en contact avec le chargement explosif, le premier secteur étant constitué par une première des deux coquilles qui est réalisée en un premier matériau destiné à engendrer des éclats, le deuxième secteur étant constitué par une deuxième des deux coquilles qui est réalisée en un deuxième matériau de nature différente de celle du premier matériau.Thus, the subject of the invention is an explosive munition comprising an explosive charge disposed in an envelope surrounding an axis of the munition and at least a first initiator for this charge, the envelope comprising at least two sectors, a first sector comprising means ensuring the formation of chips when a first initiator which is disposed in the vicinity of a second sector is initiated, the second sector being devoid of means ensuring the formation of fragments, ammunition characterized in that the envelope comprises a case formed of at least two contiguous shells and in contact with the explosive charge, the first sector being constituted by a first of the two shells which is made of a first material intended to generate splinters, the second sector being constituted by a second of the two shells which is made of a second material of a different nature from that of the first material.

le premier secteur pourra couvrir de préférence un angle inférieur ou égal à 180° autour d'un axe de la munition.the first sector may preferably cover an angle less than or equal to 180 ° around an axis of the ammunition.

Le premier matériau pourra avoir une densité supérieure ou égale à 7 tandis que le deuxième matériau aura une densité inférieure ou égale à 3.The first material may have a density greater than or equal to 7 while the second material will have a density less than or equal to 3.

Le premier matériau pourra ainsi être constitué par de l'acier ou du tungstène et le deuxième matériau pourra être choisi parmi les matériaux suivants : matière plastique, matériaux composites, aluminium.The first material may thus be made of steel or tungsten and the second material may be chosen from the following materials: plastic material, composite materials, aluminum.

Les moyens d'initiation pourront comprendre au moins un deuxième initiateur.The initiation means may comprise at least one second initiator.

Selon un mode de réalisation, le deuxième initiateur pourra être disposé au voisinage de la première coquille, l'initiation de ce deuxième initiateur assurant l'explosion du chargement avec un effet de souffle.According to one embodiment, the second initiator may be disposed in the vicinity of the first shell, the initiation of this second initiator ensuring the explosion of the loading with a blast effect.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation, la munition pourra comporter un revêtement concave disposé au niveau d'une première extrémité de l'enveloppe et appliqué sur le chargement explosif, le deuxième initiateur étant disposé au voisinage d'une deuxième extrémité de l'enveloppe.According to another embodiment, the munition may comprise a concave coating disposed at a first end of the envelope and applied to the explosive charge, the second initiator being disposed in the vicinity of a second end of the envelope.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation, la munition pourra comprendre au moins trois initiateurs, un disposé au voisinage de la première coquille, un autre disposé au voisinage de la deuxième coquille et un autre disposé au voisinage d'une extrémité de l'enveloppe.According to another embodiment, the munition may comprise at least three initiators, one disposed in the vicinity of the first shell, another disposed in the vicinity of the second shell and another disposed adjacent an end of the shell.

Les initiateurs seront reliés à un moyen de commande permettant le choix de l'un ou l'autre des initiateurs.The initiators will be connected to a control means allowing the choice of one or the other of the initiators.

Le chargement explosif pourra être délimité par deux plans et par la première coquille, l'espace séparant la deuxième coquille et les deux plans étant alors occupé par un calage et/ou un dispositif de sécurité et d'armement.The explosive charge may be delimited by two planes and the first shell, the space between the second shell and the two planes being then occupied by a wedging and / or a safety device and arming.

D'autres avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description qui va suivre de différents modes de réalisation, description faite en référence aux dessins annexés et dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 représente en coupe longitudinale une munition selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 2 est une coupe transversale de la précédente suivant le plan dont la trace AA est repérée en figure 1,
  • la figure 3 représente en coupe longitudinale une munition selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 4 est une coupe transversale de la précédente suivant le plan dont la trace BB est repérée en figure 3,
  • la figure 5 est une coupe transversale d'une munition selon une variante de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 6 est une coupe transversale d'une munition selon une autre variante de l'invention,
  • la figure 7 est une coupe longitudinale d'une munition selon un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 8 est une coupe transversale de cette munition suivant le plan dont la trace CC est repérée en figure 7,
  • la figure 9 est une coupe longitudinale d'une munition selon un quatrième mode de réalisation de l'invention,
  • la figure 10 est une coupe transversale de cette munition suivant le plan dont la trace DD est repérée en figure 9.
Other advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following description of various embodiments, a description given with reference to the appended drawings and in which:
  • FIG. 1 represents in longitudinal section an ammunition according to a first embodiment of the invention,
  • FIG. 2 is a cross-section of the previous one along the plane whose track AA is marked in FIG. 1,
  • FIG. 3 represents in longitudinal section an ammunition according to a second embodiment of the invention,
  • FIG. 4 is a cross-section of the previous one along the plane whose trace BB is marked in FIG. 3,
  • FIG. 5 is a cross section of a munition according to an alternative embodiment of the invention,
  • FIG. 6 is a cross section of a munition according to another variant of the invention,
  • FIG. 7 is a longitudinal section of a munition according to a third embodiment of the invention,
  • FIG. 8 is a cross section of this munition along the plane whose trace CC is marked in FIG. 7,
  • FIG. 9 is a longitudinal section of a munition according to a fourth embodiment of the invention,
  • FIG. 10 is a cross section of this munition along the plane whose trace DD is marked in FIG. 9.

En se reportant aux figures 1 et 2, une munition explosive 1 selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention, comprend un chargement explosif 2 disposé dans une enveloppe 3 entourant un axe 4 de la munition.Referring to Figures 1 and 2, an explosive ordnance 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention comprises an explosive charge 2 disposed in a casing 3 surrounding an axis 4 of the munition.

L'enveloppe 3 est ici globalement cylindrique d'axe 4.The envelope 3 is globally cylindrical with axis 4.

La munition 1 représentée ici comprend également un propulseur 5 qui n'est pas représenté en détails et qui comporte d'une façon classique un chargement propulsif 6 sous la forme d'un bloc disposé dans une chambre prolongée par une tuyère (non représentée). Ce propulseur ne fait pas l'objet de la présente invention et il est possible de définir une munition selon l'invention dépourvue de propulseur.The munition 1 shown here also comprises a propellant 5 which is not shown in detail and which comprises in a conventional manner a propellant charge 6 in the form of a block disposed in a chamber extended by a nozzle (not shown). This thruster is not the subject of the present invention and it is possible to define an ammunition according to the invention devoid of propellant.

La munition est enfin dotée d'un empennage (non représenté) destiné à assurer sa stabilisation en roulis.The ammunition is finally equipped with a tail (not shown) to ensure its stabilization in roll.

La munition comprend au moins un premier initiateur 7 qui permet de faire détoner le chargement explosif 2. Ce premier initiateur 7 est disposé au niveau d'une génératrice de l'enveloppe 3. D'une manière classique il est raccordé à un dispositif de sécurité et d'armement (non représenté) qui pourra être solidaire de l'enveloppe de la munition.The ammunition comprises at least a first initiator 7 which makes it possible to detonate the explosive charge 2. This first initiator 7 is disposed at a generatrix of the envelope 3. In a conventional manner it is connected to a security device and arming (not shown) that can be secured to the shell of the ammunition.

Selon une caractéristique essentielle de l'invention, l'enveloppe 3 comprend au moins deux secteurs:

  • un premier secteur 3a comportant des moyens assurant la formation d'éclats lorsque le premier initiateur 7 est initié, et
  • un deuxième secteur 3b dépourvu de moyens assurant la formation d'éclats.
According to an essential characteristic of the invention, the envelope 3 comprises at least two sectors:
  • a first sector 3a comprising means ensuring the formation of chips when the first initiator 7 is initiated, and
  • a second sector 3b devoid of means ensuring the formation of chips.

Le premier initiateur 7 est disposé au voisinage du deuxième secteur 3b de l'enveloppe. Ainsi l'onde de détonation initiée par l'initiateur 7 progressera dans le chargement explosif 2 suivant une direction sensiblement radiale en direction du premier secteur 3a, assurant ainsi une vitesse optimale pour la projection des éclats.The first initiator 7 is disposed in the vicinity of the second sector 3b of the envelope. Thus the detonation wave initiated by the initiator 7 will progress in the explosive charge 2 in a substantially radial direction towards the first sector 3a, thus ensuring an optimal speed for the projection of the chips.

Selon ce premier mode de réalisation l'enveloppe 3 comprend un étui formé de deux coquilles 8a et 8b qui sont jointives et qui entourent le chargement explosif 2. Selon la variante représentée aux figures 1 et 2, les deux coquilles 8a et 8b sont hémi cylindriques. Chaque secteur 3a, 3b couvre donc un angle de 180° autour de l'axe 4 de la munition.According to this first embodiment, the envelope 3 comprises a holster formed of two shells 8a and 8b which are contiguous and which surround the explosive charge 2. According to the variant represented in FIGS. 1 and 2, the two shells 8a and 8b are hemi cylindrical . Each sector 3a, 3b therefore covers an angle of 180 ° around the axis 4 of the munition.

Les deux coquilles 8a et 8b sont disposées dans un tube 9 qui sera réalisé en un matériau léger, par exemple en aluminium, en matière plastique ou en composite.The two shells 8a and 8b are arranged in a tube 9 which will be made of a light material, for example aluminum, plastic or composite.

Le premier secteur 3a est constitué par la première coquille 8a. Cette première coquille est réalisée en un premier matériau destiné à engendrer des éclats.The first sector 3a is constituted by the first shell 8a. This first shell is made of a first material for generating splinters.

On pourra par exemple réaliser cette première coquille 8a en acier ou en matériau dense (par exemple en tungstène).For example, this first shell 8a can be made of steel or of dense material (for example tungsten).

Le premier matériau pourra être fragilisé pour assurer un préformage des éclats. La fragilisation pourra d'une façon classique être obtenue en réalisant mécaniquement des rainures formant un réseau ayant pour maille la dimension souhaitée pour les éclats. On pourra aussi réaliser une fragilisation par bombardement électronique ou traitement thermique localisé le long d'un tel réseau.The first material may be weakened to ensure preforming of the chips. The embrittlement may conventionally be obtained by mechanically realizing grooves forming a network having for mesh the desired size for the chips. It will also be possible to achieve embrittlement by electron bombardment or localized heat treatment along such a network.

On pourra également assurer une modulation de l'onde de choc à laquelle est soumise la première coquille suivant le réseau souhaité en prévoyant des inserts ou des zones dépourvues d'explosif entre l'explosif et la première coquille (par exemple une grille ou bien des rainures aménagées dans l'explosif).It will also be possible to provide a modulation of the shock wave to which the first shell is subjected following the desired network by providing inserts or areas free of explosive between the explosive and the first shell (for example a grid or grooves in the explosive).

Ces solutions sont bien connues de l'Homme du Métier et ne seront pas décrites plus en détails.These solutions are well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in more detail.

On pourrait également prévoir des inserts (grille métallique ou en matière plastique) disposés entre la première coquille et le tube 9 ou bien noyés dans le matériau du tube 9.It is also possible to provide inserts (metal or plastic grid) placed between the first shell and the tube 9 or embedded in the material of the tube 9.

Le deuxième secteur 3b est constitué par la deuxième coquille 8b qui est réalisée en un deuxième matériau qui est de nature différente de celle du premier matériau.The second sector 3b is constituted by the second shell 8b which is made of a second material which is different in nature from that of the first material.

On choisira comme deuxième matériau un matériau n'engendrant pas ou peu d'éclats lors de l'initiation de la charge. Il suffira d'adopter un matériau de faible densité (inférieure ou égale à 3000 kg/m3) qui permettra d'assurer la tenue mécanique de l'ensemble mais qui ne génèrera lors du fonctionnement que des éclats à faible vulnérabilité.As a second material, a material that does not generate or has a small amount of chips during the initiation of the charge will be chosen. It will suffice to adopt a low density material (less than or equal to 3000 kg / m3) which will ensure the mechanical strength of the assembly but which will generate during operation that flakes low vulnerability.

On pourra ainsi réaliser la deuxième coquille 8b en une matière plastique par exemple un polyamide.It will thus be possible to make the second shell 8b of a plastics material, for example a polyamide.

On pourrait aussi réaliser la deuxième coquille en un matériau composite, tel un enroulé filamentaire, ou encore en aluminium.The second shell could also be made of a composite material, such as a filament winding or aluminum.

Une goupille radiale 10 assure le positionnement axial et angulaire des deux demi-coquilles par rapport au tube 9.A radial pin 10 ensures the axial and angular positioning of the two half-shells with respect to the tube 9.

Selon le mode de réalisation qui est représenté ici, le premier initiateur 7 est constitué par un comprimé d'une composition détonante, logé dans un trou aménagé dans le chargement explosif 2. Ce comprimé est lui-même initié par un détonateur 11 qui est relié par un fil 12 à un dispositif de commande de mise à feu (non représenté) solidaire du système de lancement (non représenté) ou bien solidaire de la munition elle-même. Le détonateur est appliqué en contact avec le comprimé initiateur 7 au travers d'un orifice radial 13 aménagé dans la deuxième coquille 8b.According to the embodiment which is represented here, the first initiator 7 is constituted by a tablet of a detonating composition, housed in a hole arranged in the explosive charge 2. This tablet is itself initiated by a detonator 11 which is connected by a wire 12 to a firing control device (not shown) integral with the launching system (not shown) or secured to the munition itself. The detonator is applied in contact with the initiator tablet 7 through a radial orifice 13 provided in the second shell 8b.

Un bouchon de fermeture 19 est vissé ou collé au tube 9 et il assure la solidarisation axiale du chargement explosif et des coquilles 8a et 8b par rapport au tube 9.A closure cap 19 is screwed or glued to the tube 9 and it ensures the axial connection of the explosive charge and the shells 8a and 8b with respect to the tube 9.

L'ensemble formé par l'initiateur 11, le chargement explosif 2 et la première coquille 8a constitue une charge génératrice d'éclats.The assembly formed by the initiator 11, the explosive charge 2 and the first shell 8a is a charge generating chips.

Le montage de cette munition s'effectue de la façon suivante :The assembly of this ammunition is carried out as follows:

On réalise un bloc d'explosif par exemple d'hexogène ou d'octogène à l'intérieur duquel est aménagé un trou radial destiné à recevoir le moyen d'initiation.An explosive block is produced, for example hexogen or octogen, inside which is arranged a radial hole intended to receive the initiation means.

On place le moyen d'initiation 7 à l'intérieur de ce trou puis on place l'explosif à l'intérieur des deux coquilles 8a et 8b en s'assurant que l'initiateur 7 se trouve en regard du trou 13 de la coquille 8b.The initiation means 7 are placed inside this hole and the explosive is placed inside the two shells 8a and 8b, making sure that the initiator 7 is opposite the hole 13 of the shell. 8b.

On glisse les coquilles 8a, 8b équipées du chargement explosif à l'intérieur du tube 9 en veillant à orienter correctement la charge angulairement. La goupille 10 est alors placée et collée dans le tube pour assurer la solidarisation axiale du chargement, des coquilles et du tube.The shells 8a, 8b equipped with the explosive charge are slid inside the tube 9, making sure to correctly orient the load angularly. The pin 10 is then placed and glued in the tube to ensure the axial connection of the load, the shells and the tube.

On place le détonateur 11 équipé de son fil 12 dans le tube 9 et en regard de l'initiateur 7.The detonator 11 equipped with its wire 12 is placed in the tube 9 and facing the initiator 7.

La munition ainsi décrite fonctionne de la façon suivante.The munition thus described operates as follows.

L'initiateur 7 est déclenché sur trajectoire de la munition par un ordre de commande transmis par le fil 12. Le chargement explosif 2 est alors mis en détonation. L'onde de détonation progresse sensiblement radialement de la deuxième coquille 8b vers la première coquille 8a. Celle ci se fragmente sous la forme d'éclats qui sont projetés à une vitesse de l'ordre de 1800 m/s.The initiator 7 is triggered on the trajectory of the munition by a control command transmitted by the wire 12. The explosive charge 2 is then put into detonation. The detonation wave progresses substantially radially from the second shell 8b to the first shell 8a. This one breaks up in the form of fragments that are projected at a speed of the order of 1800 m / s.

La deuxième coquille étant réalisée en un matériau léger n'engendrant pas d'éclats ou des éclats peu vulnérants on est assuré d'obtenir une gerbe efficace suivant un secteur bien défini qui est délimité au maximum par les directions d1 et d2 visibles à la figure 2.The second shell is made of a lightweight material that does not generate splinters or little vulvar chips is ensured to obtain an effective sheaf according to a well defined sector which is delimited at most by the directions d1 and d2 visible in the figure 2.

On évite ainsi les effets collatéraux.This avoids collateral effects.

Pour simplifier les dessins on a décrit ici une tête militaire dont le déclenchement était provoqué à partir du système de lancement à l'aide d'un fil. Afin d'assurer que les éclats sont bien envoyés en direction de la menace on dotera avantageusement la munition d'une fusée (non représentée) de technologie radar ou infrarouge et ayant une direction de détection parallèle ou voisine de la direction d'efficacité de la charge à éclats. Cette direction est la bissectrice de l'angle formé par les droites d1 et d2 (figure 2). La fusée sera reliée à l'initiateur 7 et elle assurera le déclenchement de la charge en direction de la menace qu'elle aura détecté.To simplify the drawings, a military head was described here whose triggering was caused from the launching system using a wire. In order to ensure that the fragments are sent in the direction of the threat, the munition will advantageously be equipped with a rocket (not shown) of radar or infrared technology and having a direction of detection parallel or close to the direction of effectiveness of the splinter charge. This direction is the bisector of the angle formed by the lines d1 and d2 (Figure 2). The rocket will be connected to initiator 7 and it will trigger the charge towards the threat it has detected.

Différentes variantes sont possibles sans sortir du cadre de l'invention.Different variants are possible without departing from the scope of the invention.

La figure 5 montre ainsi en coupe une munition 1 qui diffère de celle de la figure 2 en ce que le chargement explosif 2 ne remplit pas complètement le volume délimité par les coquilles 8a et 8b.FIG. 5 thus shows in section a munition 1 which differs from that of FIG. 2 in that the explosive charge 2 does not completely fill the volume delimited by the shells 8a and 8b.

En effet, compte tenu du fait que seul la coquille 8a a un effet vulnérant, il n'est pas nécessaire de remplir totalement le volume interne de la munition avec de l'explosif. Le chargement explosif sera alors usiné en forme d'un "coin" délimité par deux plans 21a, et 21b et par la première coquille 8a.Indeed, considering that only the shell 8a has a vulnant effect, it is not necessary to completely fill the internal volume of the ammunition with explosive. The explosive charge will then be machined in the form of a "corner" delimited by two planes 21a, and 21b and by the first shell 8a.

L'initiateur 11 sera disposé au sommet du coin.Initiator 11 will be disposed at the top of the corner.

Les plans 21a et 21b pourront être appliqués sur un capotage en tôle solidaire de la deuxième coquille 8b.The plans 21a and 21b may be applied to a sheet metal cowling secured to the second shell 8b.

Ils pourront plus simplement être maintenus calés par rapport à la deuxième coquille 8b à l'aide de blocs de remplissage 20a, 20b réalisés par exemple en mousse synthétique.They can more simply be held wedged relative to the second shell 8b using filler blocks 20a, 20b made for example of synthetic foam.

Une telle variante permet d'alléger la munition sans nuire à son efficacité. Elle permet également de réduire les effets arrière, le calage 20a, 20b assurant un amortissement de l'onde de choc reçue par la deuxième coquille 8b.Such a variant makes it possible to lighten the ammunition without impairing its effectiveness. It also reduces the rear effects, the wedging 20a, 20b ensuring damping of the shock wave received by the second shell 8b.

Le volume occupé par le calage pourra aussi être utilisé pour loger un dispositif de sécurité et d'armement.The volume occupied by the wedging may also be used to house a safety and arming device.

Il est également possible à titre de variante de réaliser une munition dans laquelle le premier secteur 3a couvre un angle inférieur à 180° autour de l'axe 4 de la munition. La figure 6 montre ainsi en coupe une munition dans laquelle l'angle couvert par le premier secteur 3a est de 120°.It is also possible as an alternative to make an ammunition in which the first sector 3a covers an angle less than 180 ° around the axis 4 of the ammunition. FIG. 6 thus shows in section an ammunition in which the angle covered by the first sector 3a is 120 °.

On notera que le tube 9 n'a pas été représenté sur les figures 5 et 6.Note that the tube 9 has not been shown in Figures 5 and 6.

Les figures 3 et 4 montrent une munition selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention.Figures 3 and 4 show a munition according to a second embodiment of the invention.

Cette munition diffère de celle représentée aux figures 1 et 2 en ce qu'elle comporte également un revêtement concave 14 qui est appliqué sur le chargement explosif 2. Ce revêtement est disposé au niveau d'une première extrémité (ou extrémité avant) de l'enveloppe 3. Il présente une symétrie de révolution autour de l'axe 4 de la munition.This ammunition differs from that shown in Figures 1 and 2 in that it also comprises a concave coating 14 which is applied to the explosive charge 2. This coating is disposed at a first end (or front end) of the envelope 3. It has a symmetry of revolution around the axis 4 of the ammunition.

La périphérie du revêtement se loge dans une gorge qui est aménagée à l'intérieur des coquilles 8a et 8b qui assurent ainsi la solidarisation axiale du revêtement.The periphery of the coating is housed in a groove which is arranged inside the shells 8a and 8b which thus ensure the axial joining of the coating.

Une bague butée 18 est fixée par vis au tube 9. Elle assure l'immobilisation axiale des coquilles et du chargement par rapport au tube 9.A stop ring 18 is fixed by screw to the tube 9. It ensures the axial immobilization of the shells and the load with respect to the tube 9.

Un deuxième initiateur 15 réalisé sous la forme d'un comprimé d'une composition détonante est disposé au voisinage d'une deuxième extrémité de l'enveloppe. Il est logé dans un trou axial aménagé dans le chargement explosif 2.A second initiator 15 made in the form of a tablet of a detonating composition is disposed in the vicinity of a second end of the envelope. It is housed in an axial hole arranged in the explosive charge 2.

Ce comprimé 15 est lui-même initié par un détonateur 16 qui est relié par un fil 17 au dispositif de mise à feu.This tablet 15 is itself initiated by a detonator 16 which is connected by a wire 17 to the firing device.

Les fils 12 et 17 pourront être regroupés sous la forme d'un toron de quatre fils. On pourra également utiliser des détonateurs 11 et 16 dotés chacun d'un circuit logique incorporant une mémoire contenant une adresse permettant de reconnaître l'un ou l'autre des détonateurs par l'intermédiaire d'un protocole de communication (technique classique de la communication par "BUS").The son 12 and 17 may be grouped in the form of a strand of four son. It is also possible to use detonators 11 and 16, each equipped with a logic circuit incorporating a memory containing an address making it possible to recognize one or the other of the detonators via a communication protocol (conventional communication technique by "BUS").

Dans ce cas une seule paire de fils permettra d'initier au choix l'un ou l'autre des deux détonateurs 11 ou 16.In this case a single pair of wires will initiate the choice of one or the other of the two detonators 11 or 16.

Pour faciliter le montage de la munition le fil 17 se loge dans une gorge aménagée dans la paroi du tube 9 et dans une rainure 24 aménagée dans le fond 25 du tube 9.To facilitate the mounting of the ammunition, the wire 17 is housed in a groove formed in the wall of the tube 9 and in a groove 24 formed in the bottom 25 of the tube 9.

L'ensemble formé par le deuxième initiateur 15, le chargement explosif 2 et le revêtement 14 constitue une charge génératrice de noyau. Le déclenchement de l'initiateur 15 provoque une onde de choc qui progresse sensiblement axialement dans le chargement explosif 2. Cette onde de choc conduit à la formation d'un noyau auto forgé par retournement du revêtement 14. Le noyau est projeté à une vitesse de l'ordre de 2000 m/s le long de l'axe 4.The assembly formed by the second initiator 15, the explosive charge 2 and the coating 14 constitutes a core generating charge. The triggering of the initiator 15 causes a shock wave that progresses substantially axially in the explosive charge 2. This shock wave leads to the formation of a self-wrought core by reversal of the coating 14. The core is projected at a speed of the order of 2000 m / s along axis 4.

Cette munition présente donc deux modes de fonctionnement différents.This ammunition therefore has two different modes of operation.

Si le premier initiateur 7 est déclenché, la munition engendre une gerbe d'éclats avec des effets arrières et collatéraux réduits grâce à la présence de la deuxième coquille 8b ainsi que du fond 25 du tube 9.If the first initiator 7 is triggered, the munition generates a sheaf of fragments with reduced rear and collateral effects thanks to the presence of the second shell 8b and the bottom 25 of the tube 9.

Si le deuxième initiateur 16 est déclenché, la munition engendre un noyau axial grâce au revêtement 14. Il y a également dans ce cas une projection d'éclats par la première coquille 8a, mais la vitesse des éclats est plus faible que pour la munition de la figure 1 compte tenu de l'orientation sensiblement axiale de l'onde de choc.If the second initiator 16 is triggered, the munition generates an axial core through the coating 14. There is also in this case a projection of splinters by the first shell 8a, but the speed of the chips is lower than for the ammunition of Figure 1 given the substantially axial orientation of the shock wave.

Le choix de l'un ou de l'autre des initiateurs 7 ou 16 est assuré par le dispositif de commande de mise à feu solidaire du système de lancement ou de la fusée de la munition.The choice of one or the other of the initiators 7 or 16 is provided by the firing control device secured to the launching system or the fuse of the ammunition.

Ce choix sera fait en fonction des caractéristiques de la menace détectée. La charge à éclats a une efficacité contre les missiles dont elle détruit l'enveloppe. La charge génératrice de noyau a une efficacité perforante contre les cibles blindées. Elle pourra être utilisée pour contrer en attaque directe une cible telle un véhicule ou un missile à ogive renforcée.This choice will be made according to the characteristics of the detected threat. The flash charge has an effectiveness against the missiles of which it destroys the envelope. The nucleus generating charge has a perforating efficiency against the armored targets. It can be used to counter a direct attack on a target such as a vehicle or a missile reinforced warhead.

Si la transmission de l'ordre de mise à feu se fait à partir d'un système de lancement au sol, il est bien entendu possible d'assurer cette transmission par voie hertzienne ou optique. Dans ce cas la munition comprendra une fusée électronique particulière incorporant un récepteur des ordres de commande provenant du système de lancement.If the transmission of the firing order is made from a ground launch system, it is of course possible to ensure this transmission over the air or optical. In this case the munition will include a particular electronic rocket incorporating a receiver of control commands from the launch system.

La fusée de la munition pourra également être une fusée programmable qui recevra au niveau du système de lancement une programmation de l'instant de déclenchement ainsi que du mode de fonctionnement souhaité. Cette programmation pourra être réalisée par contact ou bien par induction. La fusée pourra comporter alors également des moyens de détection de la menace.The ammunition rocket may also be a programmable rocket that will receive at the launching system programming of the trigger time and the desired operating mode. This programming can be done by contact or by induction. The rocket may then also include means for detecting the threat.

A titre de variante on pourra donner au revêtement différentes formes permettant de combiner la formation d'un noyau avec celle d'éclats. Il suffira pour cela d'aménager des fragilisations au niveau d'une zone périphérique annulaire du revêtement, une zone axiale assurant la formation d'un noyau.Alternatively, the coating may be given different shapes to combine the formation of a core with that of shards. It will suffice for this to develop embrittlement at an annular peripheral zone of the coating, an axial zone ensuring the formation of a core.

On pourra également réaliser un revêtement n'engendrant que des éclats.It will also be possible to produce a coating that generates only splinters.

Les figures 7 et 8 montrent une munition selon un troisième mode de réalisation de l'invention.Figures 7 and 8 show a munition according to a third embodiment of the invention.

Ce mode diffère de celui selon la figure 1 en ce qu'un deuxième initiateur 22 est disposé au voisinage de la première coquille 8a.This mode differs from that according to FIG. 1 in that a second initiator 22 is arranged in the vicinity of the first shell 8a.

Ce deuxième initiateur est relié par un fil 23 au dispositif de commande de mise à feu.This second initiator is connected by a wire 23 to the firing control device.

Comme dans le deuxième mode de réalisation (figure 3) on pourra réaliser un toron commun des fils 12 et 23 ou bien utiliser un "bus" unique de commande de la mise à feu.As in the second embodiment (FIG. 3), it is possible to make a common strand of the wires 12 and 23 or to use a single "bus" for controlling the firing.

Du point de vue montage le deuxième initiateur 22 est disposé dans un trou radial réalisé dans le bloc d'explosif 2 et le fil 23 se loge dans une rainure longitudinale usinée sur le bloc explosif 2.From the point of view of mounting the second initiator 22 is disposed in a radial hole made in the explosive block 2 and the wire 23 is housed in a longitudinal groove machined on the explosive block 2.

Le fil 23 se trouve donc disposé entre l'explosif 2 et la première coquille 8a. Ainsi il n'est pas nécessaire d'usiner cette dernière pour assurer le montage du deuxième initiateur 22. Il n'y a donc pas de perte de l'efficacité vulnérante de la première coquille.The wire 23 is located between the explosive 2 and the first shell 8a. Thus it is not necessary to machine the latter to ensure the mounting of the second initiator 22. There is therefore no loss of the vulnerant effectiveness of the first shell.

Le fil 23 se loge également dans une rainure 24 réalisée dans le fond 25 du tube 9.The wire 23 is also housed in a groove 24 formed in the bottom 25 of the tube 9.

Des connecteurs 26a, 26b (représentés schématiquement en pointillés) pourront se loger au niveau de cette rainure pour faciliter le montage de la munition.Connectors 26a, 26b (shown schematically in dotted lines) can be housed at this groove to facilitate assembly of the munition.

En effet on réalisera d'une part le montage de la charge explosive équipée de ses deux initiateurs 7 et 22 et d'une première partie du fil 23 équipée d'un connecteur 26a.Indeed one will realize on the one hand the mounting of the explosive charge equipped with its two initiators 7 and 22 and a first portion of the wire 23 equipped with a connector 26a.

On réalisera d'autre part le montage du tube qui recevra une deuxième partie du fil 23 équipé du connecteur 26b.On the other hand, the assembly of the tube which will receive a second portion of the wire 23 equipped with the connector 26b.

On raccordera ensuite les connecteurs avant d'introduire la charge dans le tube 9.The connectors will then be connected before introducing the charge into the tube 9.

On pourra également avantageusement prévoir un fond 25 pour le tube qui soit démontable. On facilitera ainsi le raccordement électrique après introduction de la charge explosive dans le tube 9.It may also advantageously provide a bottom 25 for the tube which is removable. This will facilitate the electrical connection after introduction of the explosive charge into the tube 9.

La munition selon ce troisième mode de réalisation présente aussi deux modes de fonctionnements :The munition according to this third embodiment also has two modes of operation:

Le mode charge à éclats déjà décrit qui est obtenu lorsque le premier initiateur 7 est déclenché.The flash charge mode already described which is obtained when the first initiator 7 is triggered.

Un mode charge à effet de souffle qui est obtenu lorsque le deuxième initiateur est déclenché.A blast charge mode that is obtained when the second initiator is triggered.

En effet le deuxième initiateur 22 est disposé sensiblement au niveau de la première coquille 8a génératrice d'éclats.Indeed the second initiator 22 is disposed substantially at the level of the first shell 8a generating chips.

L'onde de choc qu'il engendre se propage dans le chargement suivant une direction sensiblement radiale et en direction de la deuxième coquille 8b.The shock wave that it generates propagates in the load in a substantially radial direction and towards the second shell 8b.

Les éclats engendrés par la première coquille ont alors une vitesse réduite. La deuxième coquille n'est pas conçue pour engendrer des éclats vulnérants. Le seul effet majeur obtenu avec cette munition est donc un effet de souffle qui est orienté radialement en direction de la deuxième coquille 8b et qui est en partie focalisé par la première coquille 8a.The chips generated by the first shell then have a reduced speed. The second shell is not designed to generate vulvar chips. The only major effect obtained with this munition is therefore a blast effect which is oriented radially toward the second shell 8b and which is partially focused by the first shell 8a.

Cet effet de souffle pourra être renforcé en utilisant un chargement explosif 2 incorporant de la poudre d'aluminium.This blast effect can be reinforced by using an explosive charge 2 incorporating aluminum powder.

Le mode de fonctionnement à effet de souffle est plus particulièrement utilisé pour contrer les projectiles à énergie cinétique. Le mode de fonctionnement à éclats est utilisé pour contrer les missiles ou roquettes.The blast mode of operation is more particularly used to counter kinetic energy projectiles. The flash mode is used to counter missiles or rockets.

Les figures 9 et 10 montrent enfin une munition selon un quatrième mode de réalisation qui diffère des précédents en ce que la munition comprend trois initiateurs 7, 15 et 22.Figures 9 and 10 show finally a munition according to a fourth embodiment which differs from the previous ones in that the munition comprises three initiators 7, 15 and 22.

Cette munition possède donc trois modes de fonctionnement différents : charge à éclats localisés, charge à effet de souffle focalisé, charge à génération de noyau.This munition thus has three different modes of operation: localized flash charge, charge-focused charge, core-generation charge.

Le choix de l'un ou l'autre de ces modes de fonctionnement sera déterminé par le dispositif de commande (au sol ou solidaire de la munition) en fonction de la menace et l'ordre de mise à feu approprié sera alors déclenché sur trajectoire.The choice of one or the other of these modes of operation will be determined by the control device (ground or solidarity of the ammunition) according to the threat and the appropriate firing order will then be triggered on the trajectory.

Claims (10)

  1. Explosive ammunition (1) comprising an explosive load (2) placed in a casing (3) surrounding an axis (4) of the ammunition as well as at least a first igniter for this load, the casing (3) comprising at least two sectors (3a, 3b), a first sector (3a) incorporating means to ensure the formation of splinters when a first igniter (7) placed in the vicinity of a second sector (3b) is ignited, this second sector having no means ensuring the formation of splinters, ammunition wherein the casing comprises a case formed of at least two joining shells (8a, 8b) in contact with the explosive load (2), the first sector (3a) being constituted by a first (8a) of the two shells made of a first material intended to generate splinters, the second sector (3b) being constituted by a second (8b) of the two shells made of a second material of a different type to that of the first material.
  2. Explosive ammunition according to Claim 1, wherein the first sector (3a) covers an angle less than or equal to 180° around the ammunition's axis (4).
  3. Explosive ammunition according to one of Claims 1 or 2, wherein the first material has a density greater than or equal to 7 and the second material has a density less than or equal to 3.
  4. Explosive ammunition according to Claim 3, wherein the first material is constituted by steel or tungsten and the second material is selected from among the following materials: plastic materials, composite materials, aluminium.
  5. Explosive ammunition according to one of Claims 1 to 4, wherein the ignition means comprise at least a second igniter (15).
  6. Explosive ammunition according to Claim 5, wherein the second igniter (15) is placed in the vicinity of the first shell (8a), the ignition of the second igniter ensuring the explosion of the load with a blast effect.
  7. Explosive ammunition according to Claim 5, wherein it incorporates a concave liner (14) placed at a first end of the casing (3) and applied onto the explosive load (3), the second igniter (15) being placed in the vicinity of a second end of the casing (3).
  8. Explosive ammunition according to Claims 6 and 7, wherein it comprises at least three igniters (7, 15, 22), one (22) placed in the vicinity of the first shell (8a), another (7) placed in the vicinity of the second shell (8b) and another (15) placed in the vicinity of the end of the casing.
  9. Explosive ammunition according to one of Claims 5 to 8, wherein the igniters (7, 15, 22) are connected to control means enabling the selection of one or other of the igniters.
  10. Explosive ammunition according to one of Claims 1 to 9, wherein the explosive load (2) is delimited by two planes (21a, 21b) and by the first shell (8a), the space separating the second shell (8b) and the two planes (21a, 21b) being, in this case, occupied by shimming (20a, 20b) and/or a safety and arming device.
EP02292384A 2001-10-12 2002-09-27 High explosive projectile Expired - Lifetime EP1302741B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0113232 2001-10-12
FR0113232A FR2830931B1 (en) 2001-10-12 2001-10-12 EXPLOSIVE AMMUNITION

Publications (2)

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EP1302741A1 EP1302741A1 (en) 2003-04-16
EP1302741B1 true EP1302741B1 (en) 2004-12-29

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EP02292384A Expired - Lifetime EP1302741B1 (en) 2001-10-12 2002-09-27 High explosive projectile

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EP (1) EP1302741B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE286236T1 (en)
DE (1) DE60202419T2 (en)
FR (1) FR2830931B1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102009016147A1 (en) 2009-04-03 2010-10-07 Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics Gmbh Demountable projectile for use in weapon barrel of weapon system, is demounted into two projectile parts after firing target location, where projectile parts are connected with each other by multiple connecting elements

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102007025258A1 (en) 2007-05-30 2008-12-04 Rheinmetall Waffe Munition Gmbh warhead
DE102008010707A1 (en) 2008-02-22 2009-08-27 Rheinmetall Waffe Munition Gmbh Explosive projectile and method for its production
DE102008010706A1 (en) 2008-02-22 2009-08-27 Rheinmetall Waffe Munition Gmbh explosive projectile

Family Cites Families (6)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3731633A (en) * 1966-10-05 1973-05-08 Us Air Force Air-to-surface missile
US3646888A (en) * 1969-03-27 1972-03-07 Explosive Tech Aerodynamic directional grenade, launcher therefor and weapons system utilizing the same
GB1351036A (en) * 1971-09-23 1974-04-24 Foerenade Fabriksverken Explosive projectiles
DE3843432C2 (en) * 1988-12-23 1996-07-11 Diehl Gmbh & Co Warhead for a non-ballistic missile
DE4139372C1 (en) 1991-11-29 1995-03-02 Deutsche Aerospace Fragmentation warhead
SE508651C2 (en) * 1995-10-05 1998-10-26 Bofors Ab Firearm gun intended for grenades

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102009016147A1 (en) 2009-04-03 2010-10-07 Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics Gmbh Demountable projectile for use in weapon barrel of weapon system, is demounted into two projectile parts after firing target location, where projectile parts are connected with each other by multiple connecting elements

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2830931B1 (en) 2004-04-02
EP1302741A1 (en) 2003-04-16
DE60202419T2 (en) 2006-05-04
DE60202419D1 (en) 2005-02-03
ATE286236T1 (en) 2005-01-15
FR2830931A1 (en) 2003-04-18

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