EP1304539B1 - Method and device for aiming a gun barrel and use of the device - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves displaying a target image and a target mark representing the end of the projectile's trajectory. Coarse alignment of the barrel (B) is performed in a first phase. In a second phase with a fixed barrel aiming is carried out by sighting the target image using the image display unit (V), whereby the target image and target mark are brought into best alignment. Fine aiming is performed in a third phase. <??>An Independent claim is also included for a device for aiming a weapon barrel.

Description

The invention relates to a method according to claim 1 , a device according to claim 19 and a use of the device according to claim 30.

When shooting with infantry weapons such as rifles, assault rifles, grenade launchers and mine-throwers, the straightening of the gun barrels is done, mostly manually, by aiming the target without the help of a fire-line.

Before the firing must, depending on the deployment distance, to the the Aim of the weapon is removed, on the weapon a attachment angle can be adjusted. As attachment angle the direct shooting is called that angle, around which the gun barrel must be steeper than the sight line. The projectiles fired from the barrel move at direct fire on a projectile trajectory, at the mouth of the gun barrel with the sighting line collapses, then lies above the sighting line and at the finish again with the Sight line should coincide. An exact setting of the attachment angle is thus imperative for the achievement of hits, and accurate to the angle of essay to determine the deployment distance must be known exactly.

In direct shooting, for which light infantry weapons are predominantly used, the sighting of the target is done by eye. The deployment distance, that is the distance to the destination is determined without aids. It is hardly possible to accurately determine the deployment distance of eye, therefore, in general a distance range is estimated within which the exact deployment distance probably lies. In certain cases, namely when the topographical situation of the target, the deployment distance can be determined by For example, with the help of a topographic map, be determined exactly. It is also possible to determine the deployment distance of a visible target with the aid of a distance measuring unit, For example, a laser distance measuring unit to measure.

In particular, medium and heavy infantry weapons also become indirect Shooting used, that is to combat goals, by a unbreakable obstacle are separated from the weapon and are not visible. In this case, the insertion distance can not be measured. She either has to without visual help on the basis of a possible or suspected Location of the destination can be estimated, or it must be with the help of weapon-external Means are determined.

In direct shooting, sighting of the target by eye, with the help of a simple sighting unit, for example, a conventional sight / sighting unit without any optical device, done.

However, sight / grain visors have two major drawbacks that result in that the weapon barrel can not be directed precisely: First, the deployment distance usually only approximately known, since they are estimated by the eye got to; secondly, due to lack of optical magnification, only a blurred one is obtained Image of the target and therefore can not steady the weapon.

To target the target, infantry weapons can also serve as aids Have sighting devices. Such aids, in the context of the present Descriptions are generally referred to as image visualization units, For example, they may have riflescopes. For the shooter are doing one enlarged image of the target or a target image and one in the image visualization device Engraved line marking or target mark visible. The determination of the deployment distance is carried out either as described above of Eye or with the help of a laser distance measuring unit. The rifle scope will be like this mounted so that its optical axis is parallel to the weapon barrel axis and also the possibly existing laser distance measuring unit becomes parallel aligned to the weapon barrel axis. If no angle was considered, so this led to corresponding inaccuracies. Slowly when shooting flying missiles like grenades reinforces this problem since the long Flight time of such projectiles requires a relatively large attachment angle.

The disadvantages of an image visualization unit in the form of a riflescope are in Essentially the following: The weapon tube parallel alignment of the riflescope limits the choice of magnification; one to be adjusted at the weapon Top angle determines the filing between the sight line and the barrel axis Reason of which a target mark is visualized; is the deployment distance large, so are This essay angles relatively large, which has the consequence that in an optics with meaningful enlargement can no longer visualize the target. With a strong filing also gives distortions, if not an absolute one distortion-free and therefore expensive optics is used.

In summary, it can be said that so far for infantry weapons no Facilities are known that provide a precise sighting of the target and judging allow the weapon barrel. This has not been a major shortcoming for so long perceived as the projectiles that were shot with infantry weapons, were largely provided with inflators. But should also be preferred be fired with infantry weapons projectiles with programmable ignition can detonate before the impact; such projectiles are also called ABM [Air Burst Ammunition]. ABM has compared to conventional ammunition numerous advantages: The projectiles of the ABM penetrate camouflaged bushes or light woods and snow masses of considerable thickness without premature to detonate; ABM is great for house fighting because slices and light walls will break through and the effect of the projectiles onwards is directed; the dreaded ricochet effect that is close to the target in conventional Ammunition and stretched projectile trajectories is otherwise common, can not adjust. The use of ABM can only be successful be if the projectile trajectories can be determined exactly or if the weapons used have facilities that have a Allow accurate sighting of the target and aiming the barrel.

Although in the field of artillery and antiaircraft weapon systems with Fire control units are known, the accurate straightening, sometimes even on fast moving Goals, allow. The technology of these very complex weapon systems but can not be transferred to infantry weapons that are simple in construction and Handling, cheap, lightweight and highly mobile and should be have to work autonomously.

In particular, from FR-2 788 845 a weapon with a Feuerleitvorrichtung known. This weapon is designed primarily to combat fast-moving targets, why it has a device for detecting the angular velocity of Has goals. It has an image visualization device that moves by means of Prisms or beam deflection can work. This weapon is in her Construction is much more complicated and is primarily used for completely different purposes as the relatively light weapons for which the invention is intended.

• ein verbessertes Verfahren der eingangs genannten Art vorzuschlagen, welches die Nachteile des Standes der Technik vermeidet;
• eine Einrichtung der eingangs genannten Art zur Durchführung des Verfahrens zu schaffen; und
• eine Verwendung der Einrichtung anzugeben.

It is thus an object of the invention

• to propose an improved method of the type mentioned, which avoids the disadvantages of the prior art;
• to provide a device of the type mentioned above for carrying out the method; and
• indicate a use of the device.

• für das Verfahren durch die Merkmale des Anspruchs 1;
• für die Einrichtung durch die Merkmale des Anspruchs 19; und
• für die Verwendung durch den Anspruch 30.

The solution of this task is carried out according to the invention

• for the method by the features of claim 1 ;
• for the device by the features of claim 19 ; and
• for use by claim 30.

Preferred developments are defined by the respective dependent claims Are defined.

According to the invention, the new method comprises several phases: During one first phase, a coarse straightening of the barrel is made. These are infantry-like or by a shooter performed process steps carried out for which no special aids and in particular no data processing unit can be used. During a second phase the actual aiming takes place, whereby only the image visualization unit moves and with her a target image is targeted. For this purpose, among other procedural steps carried out, as so far only in procedures of the artillery or Flak respectively with the help of a fire control device, ie process steps, for which both an image visualization unit and a fire control device required with a data processing unit; the hereby used fire control device but can not with Feuerleitgeräten, as for Antiaircraft guns used to be compared; she is significant easier, and is generally arranged weapons-internal, so no weapons-external Connecting devices are required and each weapon is autonomous remains; in comparison with fully automated fire control systems for antiaircraft guns Can the here used fire control device as partially-automated be designated. During a third phase, fine-tuning takes place, again in the traditional way, that is by the shooter and without help the data calculated by the fire control device.

There are differences between direct implementation of the procedure Shooting and indirect shooting.

In direct shooting, the goal is roughly targeted during the first phase and the gun barrel roughly directed, that is azimuth and elevation of the Gun barrel are set approximately. The azimuth changes in the sequence only if the weapon is not leveled, then there is a change in the elevation results in a correlated change in the azimuth. The elevation will determined on the basis of mission data showing the relative position of the target Weapon, including the topographic profile between target and weapon. With direct shooting the relevant application data contain only the deployment distance or deployment distance range; they have to be determined at least approximately. An initial essay angle, so the angle between the weapon barrel axis and the sight line or the optical one The axis of the image visualization unit is dependent on the previous one certain deployment distance or from the previously determined deployment distance range set. After setting the initial attachment angle are the weapon barrel axis and the sight line or the optical axis the image visualization unit is arranged to have an initial attachment angle lock in. The optical axis of the image visualization unit is So not as with conventional sighting devices parallel to the weapon barrel axis but adapted to the at least approximately determined deployment distance. Thus one reaches that in the further fight of the goal respectively on further targeting the target always only the distortion-free central area the optical image visualization unit must be used.

In direct shooting, this can be in the second phase of playing goals be referred to as real goals. As already mentioned, this is the goal when aiming Gun barrel in its position set during the first phase. The target image is a true image of the target and is using the optical image visualization unit more precisely targeted or pursued, that is the situation the image visualization unit changes from the weapon barrel axis and also absolutely. This changes the attachment angle, that is, the initial Set attachment angle becomes larger or smaller by an angle change. This angle change is continuously measured, so that the position of the sight line relative to the position of the barrel axis is always known. The deployment distance is generally new and, if possible, more specific than during the first one Phase of the procedure. As already mentioned, during this second Phase the fire control device used with the data processing unit. The Data processing unit performs - similar to a data processing system of a Fire control unit for artillery or anti-aircraft guns - a ballistic bill by, taking into account the insertion distance, the attachment angle or the temporal angle change of the attachment angle, as well as of Data characterizing the internal ballistics of the projectiles to be fired. For this, the data processing unit will have at least the following Data provided: the deployment distance, the attachment angle respectively the temporal angle change of the attachment angle; the data, which the Characterize internal ballistics of projectiles to be fired. The data processing unit provides a signal based on their ballistics calculation, which is used by the image visualization unit. The image visualization unit is designed so that a target mark can be faded in, their position is determined by the signal of the data processing unit. The visible Result of the ballistics bill is that from the point of view of the shooter the target, which is the end of a fictitious projectile trajectory or the sighting line represents, and a target image, which here actually the image the goal is to be recognizable. The filing of the target from the target image is on Measure for a residual attachment angle or an angle change, around which the current attachment angle still needs to be changed so that the projectile the target to be met.

If no target is visible at the beginning of the second phase, this means that the coarse-judging of the first phase was not done with sufficient accuracy, which also includes the possibility that a movement of the target was done at a speed with the used weapon respectively the used device for sighting only barely controllable or not at all is. Anyway, in such a case, the procedure with the first Phase to be restarted.

The aiming of the barrel becomes the third phase, in which the fine-judging takes place, completed. When fine-tuning the target and the target image as closely as possible to cover.

In indirect shooting the target is not visible but behind an obstacle arranged. The targeted target image is not an image of the target but a superimposed auxiliary image whose position is determined by the deployment data become. The mission data showing the relative position of the target to the weapon, including of the topographical profile between weapon and target, describe here include the deployment distance, the deployment height between weapon and target, the relevant obstacle distance between weapon and obstacle and the relevant obstacle height between weapon and obstacle. The deployment data are already in the the first phase. For the determination of the operational data becomes weapon-external Means used. The mission data can be from a topographic map be clear. The location of the destination can also be based on determine a weapon effect emanating from the target to be attacked; or or, taking into account general tactical principles, which are believed to obey the adversary. According to the usage data mentioned, the initial attachment angle becomes set.

In the second phase, indirect shooting is generally not necessary or possible to more accurately determine the mission data, as these either already known exactly or then can not be determined more precisely. Aiming, which can be called here as unreal goals, also applies to the indirect Shooting takes place by using the image visualization unit the target image or a fictitious target is targeted. Here, the initial attachment angle becomes adjusted by an angle change. The data processing unit of Fire control device, the following data are provided: the angle change of the initial attachment angle or the respective attachment angle, data which the projectile to be fired and characterize its interior ballistics. The data processing unit must Also data known to define that are shot indirectly should; such data may optionally be derived from the mission data. The data processing unit performs on the basis of the provided her Data from their ballistics calculation and thereby determines the location of Target mark, which here too corresponds to the end of a fictitious projectile trajectory and the target image as close as possible.

The new process and the new device will make many Benefits, the most important of which are listed below: Coarse-straightening becomes an approximate initial angle of attack set and here brought the image visualization unit in a position in which the target is already in the optimal field of optics, so close the optical axis of the image visualization unit is located. This creates For the shooter optimal visibility conditions, because unwanted influences Distortion and loss of light are eliminated or minimized. At the Aiming, the image visualization unit is moved and thereby the initial attachment angle adjusted by an angle change; the data processing unit of Fire control device takes into account the deployment data for its ballistics calculation, the current angle and the internal ballistics of the shootings Projectile and calculates the location of the target mark. Since only a small Mass must be moving, aiming effortlessly, quickly and vibration free respectively. When fine-straightening must then again a larger Mass, namely the gun barrel, to be moved, but the movement only needs take place once and over a small distance.

Coarse-straightening of the weapon barrel during the first phase of the new procedure Can shoot directly with the help of an additional simple sighting unit like a sight / sighting unit or with the aid of the image visualization unit respectively.

The determination of the deployment distance during the first phase of the new procedure takes place in direct shooting mostly approximatively by a Estimation of eye; but it can also with the help of a laser distance measuring unit be performed.

If in the first phase the insertion distance is determined only approximatively, then they are new during the second phase and, if possible, with increased accuracy certainly. This is done either by distance measurement using a laser distance measuring unit or using external resources, if the position of the Zieles is known by means of a topographic map or a GPS. Though simplifies the determination of the deployment distance with the aid of a laser distance measuring unit and the direct entry of this distance into the data processing unit the procedure. It is nevertheless beneficial, even for weapons for direct shooting to provide for a possibility, where appropriate, of the deployment distance or the Einsatzdanzanzbereich without the help of a laser distance measuring unit or using weapons-external means to determine and the appropriate Operating data of the data processing unit of the fire control device for the following reasons: First, is waiver on the use of a laser distance measuring unit, the position of the contactor not detectable by the enemy taking advantage of the effects of laser distance measurement, and second, the weapon becomes defective in the laser distance measuring unit not useless. For indirect shooting, it is necessary anyway, the Determine the application data without laser distance measuring unit.

The movement of the weapon barrel and / or the movement of the image visualization unit to adjust the angle of attachment can be done manually or with the help of Servo devices take place.

It is advantageous for the data processing unit in addition to those already mentioned Data further data, in particular meteorological data available to provide, which essentially the outdoor ballistics of the shootings Concern projectiles.

The device for carrying out the new method has a device for setting an initial attachment angle and an image visualization unit on. With the latter, the target image and a target mark can be visualized, where the target image is the target and the target is the end of a projectile trajectory represent a projectile to be fired. The image visualization unit is part of a fire control device in the new facility. The Fire control device also includes an angle measuring unit for measuring the Angle change of the initial attachment angle when aiming at the target image and a data processing unit for performing a ballistics calculation. The ballistics calculation takes into account the application data, the angle change the initial attachment angle and data that the to be fired Characterize projectile and its internal ballistics. The ballistics bill must also take into account whether to be fired directly or indirectly should. The data processing unit presents as a result of the ballistics calculation a signal is available indicating the location of the target.

In direct shooting, the deployment data is essentially just the deployment distance relevant; it is visually measurable, and the new facility exhibits preferably a distance measuring unit, in particular a laser distance measuring unit on.

The image visualization unit may be a riflescope. Also a residual light amplifier can be provided. Alternatively, the image visualization unit can Comprise an image capture device with a picture display device; as an image capture device For example, a video camera, an infrared camera or a Digital camera in question, and as a picture player will generally a monitor is used.

The data processing unit of the fire control device advantageously has a Input unit, with the help of the data processing unit certain data can be entered. These data are in particular the operational data, if these are determined with weapon-external means, as well as where appropriate, data relating to the projectiles to be fired and their Indoor ballistics concern. If only one type of projectile is fired, then the data concerning the projectiles and their internal ballistics can definitely be found in the data processing unit to be stored. Be different types of Projectiles fired, so the data processing unit must alternatively Selectable data will be provided, depending on the type of each shining projectile and thus characterize its internal ballistics. The Weapon can also be designed so that it is the type of fire to be fired Projectile recognizes and the data processing unit internally corresponding Provides data.

To upgrade the fire control of the data processing unit with the help the input unit further data for the ballistics invoice provided become. Interestingly, it is mainly the consideration of data, which In the broadest sense, the external ballistics concern, so for example one Non-leveling of the weapon and meteorological influences. To determine The leveling or non-leveling of the weapon can also suitable means may be present which correspond to the data processing unit Provide data internally.

In spin-stabilized projectiles, the consideration of possibly existing wind interesting because the projectiles used in general have a relatively high flight time, so that any wind influences not just a side thrust but also a considerable spin-related deviation have as a consequence. For detecting wind, a suitable wind sensor be used, which the data collected by him directly the Data processing unit provides. Such a wind sensor supplies However, data only valid in the ground area and thus only for Ballistkrechnungen usable in direct shooting. Alternatively, the Wind influences measured or estimated externally and the data processing unit be entered; this is especially recommended for indirect shooting, where the projectiles reach higher heights. The consideration of particular wind conditions indicated especially because the weapons, the equipped with the new device, mostly weapons to launch Projectiles with low projectile speeds are; are corresponding Projectile flight times considerably, and thus the projectiles are relatively long long exposed to the wind.

To facilitate the adjustment of the image visualization unit during sighting and / or for straightening the gun barrel servo devices can be provided be.

The angle measuring unit used to detect the angular change of the initial Attachment angle or for detecting the respective attachment angle can be designed so that all angles with respect to a Reference, for example, the horizontal, are measured.

The device with which the attachment angle is adjusted, a stepless be acting adjusting device. It can also be a step by step Adjusting device may be provided, wherein, for example, on the barrel different Rest positions are provided, in which a locking member of the image visualization units alternatively can intervene.

The device for carrying out the method according to the invention is preferably designed as a module and arranged in a housing. The housing can be attached to a weapon later. This allows a Retrofitting existing weapons and using a standard module various weapons and also facilitates the replacement of a defective Contraption. Such a housing does not necessarily have all the components comprise the new device, in particular, the angle measuring unit can otherwise arranged and with the help of connections to the data processing unit be connected.

Weapons with which the device according to the invention particularly advantageous can be used, among other things, machine guns, grenade launcher, Mine launchers and light infantry guns, all in all autonomous Weapons used to combat dormant or slow-moving targets become. The advantages of the new method or the new device Especially come off when programmable projectiles in style is shot by ABM. The weapons on which the new device is arranged Therefore, advantageously have a programming unit for programming or temping the projectiles.

Fig. 1A

eine Waffe mit der erfindungsgemässen Einrichtung, in einem Schaubild;

Fig. 1B

eine Einzelheit einer weiteren Einrichtung nach der Erfindung, stark vereinfacht;

Fig. 2A

eine Darstellung zur Erläuterung der Verhältnisse beim direkten Schiessen;

Fig. 2B

das beim direkten Schiessen von der Bildvisualisierungseinheit visualisierte Bild während des Zielens;

Fig. 3A

eine Darstellung zur Erläuterung der Verhältnisse beim indirekten Schiessen;

Fig. 3B

das beim indirekten Schiessen von der Bildvisualisierungseinheit visualisierte Bild während des Zielens; und.

Fig. 4

eine Datenverarbeitungseinheit mit den ihr für die Ballistik-Rechnung zur Verfügung gestellten Daten und dem Ergebnis der Ballistik-Rechnung, schematisch.

In the following the invention will be described in detail by means of embodiments and with reference to the drawing. Show it:

Fig. 1A

a weapon with the inventive device, in a diagram;

Fig. 1B

a detail of another device according to the invention, greatly simplified;

Fig. 2A

a representation for explaining the conditions in direct shooting;

Fig. 2B

the image visualized during direct shooting by the image visualization unit during the aiming;

Fig. 3A

a representation to explain the conditions in indirect shooting;

Fig. 3B

the image visualized during indirect shooting by the image visualization unit during the aiming; and.

Fig. 4

a data processing unit with the data provided to it for the ballistics calculation and the result of the ballistics calculation, schematically.

For the same elements, the same reference numerals will be used in the following in all figures used, even if these elements differ in detail. The Figures are not to scale. Judging is the movement below the weapon barrel, each understood together with the image visualization unit; Under Sighting, the motion of the image visualization unit becomes relative understood to the weapon barrel.

The weapon W shown in FIG. 1A has a weapon barrel B with a barrel axis b, which is often referred to as the axis of the soul, and a support structure in the form of a tripod mount S. The weapon W has a programming unit Q , with the help of projectiles P to be fired programmable or can be tempierbar. In the present example, the programming unit Q is arranged at the front end of the weapon barrel B , but it could also be positioned elsewhere. The weapon barrel B is attached to the tripod mount S so that it is adjustable relative to it in elevation and azimuth. Fig. 1 also shows a magazine M and an ammunition belt G with the projectiles P on the way from the magazine M to the weapon W. Optionally, the device comprises a wind sensor, not shown.

The device according to the invention comprises an image visualization unit V , which is also to be regarded as part of a fire control device F. Further components of the fire control device F are an angle measuring unit Y, a laser distance measuring unit L and a data processing unit EDV with an input unit E for manually inputting data, in particular application data D [E] and data D [A] which characterize the external ballistics of the projectiles P to be fired , as well as possibly data D [P] and D [I], which characterize the projectiles P or their internal ballistics. The data processing unit EDV is designed to carry out ballistic calculations on the basis of the totality of the data made available to it.

The image visualization unit V is attached to the barrel B and to the weapon barrel B continuously adjustable relative. The optical axis of the image visualization unit V forms a sighting line v, along which a shooter can aim the target Z in direct shooting. An adjustment of the image visualization unit V relative to the weapon barrel B means that the angle enclosed by the weapon barrel axis b and the sight line v , referred to as the attachment angle ψ, is adjusted. The attachment angle ψ is the angle by which the weapon barrel B must be steeper than the tangent to a theoretical projectile trajectory, which disregards the influence of gravity on the projectiles P to be fired, as more fully described with reference to FIGS. 2A and 3A is explained.

The image visualization unit V can also be used without the remaining components of the fire control device F , in particular it can be used for coarse straightening of the weapon barrel W. For this purpose, an additional simple sighting unit in the manner of a sight / sighting unit can be provided.

The image visualization unit V can according to FIG. 1B also be arranged so that the weapon barrel B is not continuous but stepwise adjustable relative, it that relative to the weapon barrel B is not in any but can only be placed in predetermined locking positions. For this purpose, the weapon barrel B has a device which defines a plurality of detent positions R1 to Ri . The image visualization unit V has a latching element R, which can be brought alternately into one of the latching positions R1 to Ri .

The Feuerleitvorrichtung F is basically designed like a module and arranged in a housing N , so that it is removable from the weapon W as a whole. Individual components of the Feuerleitvorrichtung F , in particular the angle measuring unit Y are arranged outside the housing N in the present embodiment and connected via conductor connections C to the data processing unit EDV .

Fig. 2A shows the weapon W in a mission to combat the visible target Z or by direct shooting. In direct shooting, of the mission data D [E], the deployment distance d * by which the target Z is away from the weapon W , or a deployment distance range d with a lower limit d * _min and an upper limit d * _max , in which the target Z is suspected, estimated and set an initial angle ψ ₀ . Other operational data D [E] are generally not considered. The attachment angle ψ, in each case for a specific type of projectile P , depends on the deployment distance d * . The attachment angle ψ is equal to the angle between the weapon barrel axis b and a sight line v connecting the weapon W to the target Z. The attachment angle ψ can also be understood as an angle between tangents to a projectile trajectory p of an actual projectile on the one hand and a projectile trajectory p _{0 of} a projectile P ₀ with an infinite projectile velocity, in each case at the mouth of the weapon barrel B. In Fig. 2B , the projectile trajectory p is the trajectory of a projectile P which hits the target Z ; with p + and p- are projectile trajectories of projectiles specified that do not hit the target Z , because too long or too short was shot.

In a second phase, the actual goals take place. Fig. 2B shows which image the image visualization unit shows the shooter. The aim is to aim at a target image Z * with the image visualization unit V. The target image Z * is the visualized image of the target Z. When sighting, the initially set attachment angle ψ _{0 changes} by the respective angle change Δψ. The angle change Δψ or the respective attachment angle ψ is measured with the aid of the angle measuring unit Y and the result of the measurement of the data processing unit EDP is made available. The deployment distance d * is measured accurately with the aid of the laser distance measuring unit L and the result of this measurement is also made available to the data processing unit EDP . Taking into account the deployment distance d *, the attachment angle ψ and data B [I] characterizing the internal ballistics of the projectiles P to be shot , the data processing unit EDV now carries out a ballistic calculation with which fictitious projectile trajectories p are determined on an ongoing basis. The data D [I] characterizing the projectile P or its internal ballistics are stored, it being possible for the data D [I] to be selected for one of a plurality of projectile types by means of the input unit E , or the data D [I] are determined by means of an input unit E entered. The end of the projectile trajectory p is visualized in each case as target mark X. The sighting is continued until target mark X and target image Z * cover as possible, in which case the projectile trajectory p ends near or directly at the target Z. With p + and p- , as already mentioned, further projectile trajectories are indicated, which are traversed by projectiles which do not hit the target Z.

Fig. 2B shows the target mark X and the target image Z * of a vertical g. This is the case when the weapon W is leveled so that a change in elevation does not result in a change in the azimuth.

In a third phase then the fine-straightening of the gun barrel B takes place, with that attachment angle ψ, which was set at the end of the second phase.

FIG. 3A shows the weapon W in an action to combat the target Z , which is located behind an obstacle H and is not visible from the weapon W from. The fight against the goal Z takes place here by indirect shooting. The deployment data D [E] include the deployment distance d *, the insert height h *, the relevant obstacle distance d _H and the relevant obstacle height h _H. These mission data D [E] will be determined in the first phase of the new procedure using weapon-external means, as they are neither measurable nor visually estimable. As a weapon-external means may serve a suitable topographic map. Based on the insert data D [E] , the initial attachment angle ψ _{0 is} determined and set. The image visualization unit V now visualizes a target image Z * , here fictitious, whose position is determined by the input data D [E] . The remainder of the process is essentially the same for indirect shooting as described above for direct shooting, where Fig. 3B shows which image the image visualization unit presents to the shooter: the target image Z * is targeted, with the initial attachment angle ψ ₀ being the angle change Δψ is changed. The angle measuring unit Y determines the angle change Δψ or the respective attachment angle ψ. The data processing unit EDV is provided with the following data: the input data D [E], the angle change Δψ or the respective angle ψ, data D [I] characterizing the internal ballistics of the projectiles P to be fired, and preferably data D [A] which determine the external ballistics of the projectile P to be fired. The data processing unit EDV continuously performs its ballistic calculation and provides a signal which corresponds in each case to the end of a fictitious projectile trajectory p , as would result with the respective attachment angle ψ, and by which the position of the visualizable target mark X is determined , Target image Z * and target mark X are brought as close as possible. In Fig. 3B , the projectile trajectory p is the trajectory of a projectile P which hits the target Z ; with p + and p- projectile trajectories of projectiles are specified, which do not hit the target Z.

Target image Z * and target X coincide completely, then hit the from the weapon W now actually fired projectile P, the target Z in all likelihood, assuming, of course, the goal Z had now not moving and there have been no non-forecasted meteorological Influences asserted.

Fig. 4 shows schematically the data processing unit EDV , with the data provided for the ballistics calculation and the result of the ballistics calculation, which is carried out in the second phase of the new method. Double lines indicate those data which can definitely be entered and stored, namely the data D [P] concerning the projectile P and the data D [I] concerning the internal ballistics . Normal lines indicate those data which must be absolutely known during the implementation of the new method, namely the insert data D [E] and the respective attachment angle ψ. Dotted lines indicate those data which can optionally be input, in particular the data D [A] determining the external ballistics.

It should be noted that in practice the opportunity to score is not as it is due to the representation of the image visualization unit in the firing would be suspected. On the one hand, it is worse as expected, among other things, because fine-tuning was not optimal and / or the external ballistics was not sufficiently considered. On the other hand, is hit rather better than expected because both the indoor ballistics as well the external ballistics of the projectiles differs slightly from projectile to projectile is so that when shooting a salvo almost always a certain scatter occurs.

As already explained, the new method and the new device are designed primarily for use with autonomous weapons that Only be operated by the shooter. These include in particular infantry weapons like machine guns, mortars, mortars and infantry cannon.

Particularly advantageous synergies can be achieved when using of the new method or the new device ABM becomes.

Claims (30)

1. A method for aiming an weapon

   having a weapon barrel (B) with a weapon barrel axis (b),

   being a machine gun, mortar, grenade launcher or light infantry canon (W)

   having a fire control device with a data processing unit and on a target (Z), wherein a target image (Z*) representing the target (Z) and a target marker (X) representing the end of a projectile trajectory (p) of a projectile (P) are displayed with the aid of an image visualisation unit (V), wherein

   in a first phase

   the weapon is fastened on a mount and rough aiming of the weapon barrel (B) is performed, whereby

   deployment data (D(E)) are determined which define the position of the target (Z) relative to the weapon (W), and

   an initial gun sight angle (ψ₀) corresponding to these deployment data (D(E)) is set between the weapon barrel axis (b) and the sighting line (v) of the image visualisation unit (V),

   that in a second phase, with the weapon barrel (B) stationary,

   sighting the target (Z) is performed, the target (Z) being sighted by means of the image visualisation unit (V), whereby the initial gun sight angle (ψ₀) is changed by an angular change (Δψ),

   the angular change is measured and data relating to the angular change (Δψ) are made available to the data processing unit by means of conductor lines (C), and further data including the deployment data D(P)) relating to a projectile (P) to be fired including data relating to the interior ballistics (D(I)) of the projectile (P) are made available to the data processing unit, in order to enable the data processing unit (EDV) to continuously perform a ballistics calculation and to make a signal available describing the position of the target marker (X),

   the target marker (X) is displayed and the target image (Z*) and the target marker (X) are brought into coincidence as closely as possible, and

   that in a third phase fine aiming of the weapon barrel (B) is performed and a programming unit (Q) is initialized to program the projectile (P), taking into consideration the deployment data (D(E)) and the angular change of the gun sight angle (Δψ).
2. The method in accordance with claim 1,
   characterised in that the determination of the deployment data (D(E)) takes place with the aid of means external to the weapon, for example with the aid of a topographic map or a GPS.
3. The method in accordance with claim 1,
   characterised in that the displayed target image (Z*) is an image of the visible target (Z), which can be attacked by direct fire.
4. The method in accordance with claim 1,
   characterised in that the deployment distance (d*) is determined as the deployment data (D(E)).
5. The method in accordance with claim 4,
   characterised in that the determination of the deployment distance (d*) takes place by approximately determining a distance range (d) within which the deployment distance (d*) is assumed to lie.
6. The method in accordance with claim 5,
   characterised in that the determination of the distance range (d) takes place on the basis of a visual distance estimation.
7. The method in accordance with claim 4,
   characterised in that the determination of the deployment distance (d*) takes place by means of a distance measuring unit, preferably internal to the weapon, for example by means of a laser distance measuring unit (L).
8. The method in accordance with claim 1,
   characterised in that the displayed target image (Z*) is a blended-in auxiliary image of the target (Z), which is obscured by an obstacle (H), and can be attacked by indirect fire.
9. The method in accordance with claim 8,
   characterised in that the deployment data (D(E)) comprise

   the deployment distance (d*) between the weapon (W) and the target (Z),

   a deployment height (h*) between the weapon (W) and the target (Z),

   an obstacle distance (d_H) between the weapon (W) and the target (Z), and

   an obstacle height (h_H) between the weapon (W) and the target (Z).
10. The method in accordance with claim 9,
    characterised in that the position of the target image (Z*) to be blended-in is determined on the basis of the deployment data (d*, h*, d_H, h_H).
11. The method in accordance with claim 1,
    characterised in that the setting of the gun sight angle (ψ) is performed manually.
12. The method in accordance with claim 1,
    characterised in that the setting of the gun sight angle (ψ) is performed by means of a servo device (S).
13. The method in accordance with claim 1,
    characterised in that the data which are made available to the data processing unit (EDV) and which relate to the projectile (P) include data (P(I)) relating to the interior ballistics of the projectile (P).
14. The method in accordance with claim 1,
    characterised in that the data which are made available to the data processing unit (EDV) and which relate to the projectile (P) include data (P(A)) relating to the exterior ballistics of the projectile [P].
15. The method in accordance with claim 14,
    characterised in that the data (D(A)) relating to the exterior ballistics include meteorological data.
16. The method in accordance with claim 1,
    characterised in that data or a signal are made available to the data processing unit (EDV), which indicate whether there will be direct or indirect fire.
17. The method in accordance with claim 1,
    characterised in that the setting of the gun sight angle (ψ) takes place continuously.
18. The method in accordance with claim 1,
    characterised in that the setting of the gun sight angle (ψ) takes place in steps into defined positions of rest (R1 to Ri).
19. An aiming device for aiming a weapon barrel (B), having a weapon barrel axis (b), of a weapon (W) in direction of a target (Z),
    which aiming device has a

    a setting device for setting an initial gun sight angle (ψ₀) as a function of deployment data (D(E)), and

    an image visualisation unit (V) for displaying a target image (Z*) representing the target (Z), and a target marker (X) representing the end of an imaginary projectile trajectory (p) of a projectile (P) to be fired,

    a fire control device (F), having the image visualisation unit (V) which is adjustable in the elevation relative to the weapon (W),

    an angle measuring device (M) for measuring angular changes (Δψ) of the initial gun sight angle ((ψ₀), and

    a data processing unit (EDV)

    for performing a ballistics calculation, in which

    the deployment data (D(E),

    the gun sight angle (Δψ) adjusted by the angular adjustment (ψ₀) of the initial gun sight angle (ψ) and

    data defining the interior ballistics of the projectile (P) to be fired can be taken into consideration, and

    for outputting a signal which determines the position of the target marker (X), whereby

    the image visualisation unit (V) is adapted to blend-in the target marker (X) on the basis of said signal.
20. The device in accordance with claim 19,
    characterised in that it is embodied for direct fire, wherein

    the target image (Z*) is the image of the target (Z), and

    the deployment data (D(E)) are constituted by the deployment distance (d*) between the weapon (W) and the target (Z).
21. The device in accordance with claim 19,
    characterised in that it is embodied for indirect fire, wherein

    the target image (Z*) is an auxiliary image of the target (Z), which can be blended-in, and

    the deployment data (D(E)) contain the deployment distance (d*) between the weapon (W) and the target (Z), a deployment height (h*) between the weapon (W) and the target (Z), an obstacle distance (d_H) between the weapon (W) and the target (Z), and an obstacle height (h_H) between the weapon (W) and the target (Z).
22. The device in accordance with claim 19,
    characterised in that it has a distance measuring unit, for example a laser distance measuring unit (L), for measuring the deployment distance (d*).
23. The device in accordance with claim 19,
    characterised in that it has a servo unit assigned to the weapon barrel (B) for aiming the weapon barrel (B).
24. The device in accordance with claim 19,
    characterised in that it has a servo unit for sighting the target (Z), which is assigned to the image visualisation unit (V).
25. The device in accordance with claim 19,
    characterised in that the fire control device (F) has an input unit (K) for making available at least a portion of the following data to the data processing unit (EDV):

    the deployment data (D(E)), which were determined with the aid of means external to the weapon;

    data (D(P)) defining the projectile (P);

    data (D(I)) defining the interior ballistics of the projectile (P);

    data (D(A)) defining the exterior ballistics of the projectile (P), in particular meteorological data;

    data indicating whether direct or indirect firing is intended.
26. The device in accordance with claim 19,
    characterised in that the angle measuring device (W) for measuring the angular change (Δψ) is designed in such a way that measurement of the angles is performed in relation to a reference, for example the horizontal line.
27. The device in accordance with claim 19,
    characterised in that it includes a wind sensor.
28. The device in accordance with claim 19,
    characterised in that it contains a setting device for continuously adjusting the image visualisation unit (V) and for continuously performing hereby the angular changes (Δψ).
29. The device in accordance with claim 19,
    characterised in that it contains a setting device with a rest unit on the weapon barrel (B) having several rest positions (R1 to Ri) and a rest member (R) on the image visualisation unit (V) designed for alternatively taking up one of the rest positions (R1 to Ri) in order to displace the image visualisation unit (V) in steps between the rest positions (R1 to Ri) and to perform hereby the angular adjustments (Δψ) step by step.
30. Use of the device in accordance with at least one of claims 19 to 29 in connection with an infantry weapon, in particular a weapon (W) designed as a machine gun, grenade launcher, mortar or infantry cannon, wherein the weapon (W) preferably includes a programming unit (Q) for programming projectiles (P) of the ABM type.

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