EP3306259A1 - Standard, interchangeable structure for an armoured vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

Modular turret (13) intended to be mounted on a shielded vehicle, comprising on the one hand an invariable and unique basic structure unit that can be interchangeable, called standard and interchangeable shell (1), equipped with interface means, and on the other hand a plurality of interchangeable and removable modules and / or functional systems (5, 6, 9, 12, 21, 22, 23), able to be secured to the standard and interchangeable shell (1) by specific fixing means and distinctive of the connection of each module and / or system to said standard and interchangeable shell (1), the interface means being so designed to allow assembly of all the different modules and / or systems of the same functional type on said standard and interchangeable shell (1) at an interfacing zone on the latter (1), said standard and interchangeable shell (1) comprising the assembly of a plurality of shaped plates and t different dimensions giving the standard shell and interchangeable (1) a geometric shape of fixed dimensions, said plates may have orifices and / or connectors for fixing said modules and / or functional systems interchangeable and removable.

Description

Object of the invention

The present invention emerges from the technological field of the integration of guns of different calibres on a standard and interchangeable hull, said guns covering the range of means and large calibres, in other words between 20 mm and 130 mm, and said standard and interchangeable hull being considered as the basic structure of a modular turret mounted on any armored vehicle.

By definition, the shell is the shielded frame in which and / or on which can be inserted and / or attached, via distinctive interfaces, at least systematically or optionally a (or appropriate combination of) element (s) such as the gun of variable calibres (from medium to large), a sighting system, a basket containing a set of electronic and mechanical components, a bustle enclosing medium or large caliber ammunition, a missile launcher system (s), a close observation system, etc.

Technological background

In general, the development of a turret takes into account several specific parameters, parameters which lead, in most cases and as far as possible, to the development of a single structure resulting from the optimization of each of them.

• à la masse de la tourelle,
• à la protection balistique,
• au calibre de l'arme principale, à savoir le canon,
• aux nombre et type de munitions à stocker ainsi qu'au moyen de chargement de ces dernières (manuel ou automatique),
• aux dimensions du véhicule sur lequel est associée la tourelle,
• aux moyens de transport de l'ensemble véhicule/tourelle,
• aux contraintes contractuelles imposées par l'utilisateur,
• etc.

The parameters mentioned above are relative:

• to the turret mass,
• ballistic protection,
• the caliber of the main weapon, namely the barrel,
• the number and type of ammunition to be stored as well as the means of loading them (manual or automatic),
• to the dimensions of the vehicle on which the turret is associated,
• the means of transport of the vehicle / turret assembly,
• contractual constraints imposed by the user,
• etc.

Thus, the turrets usually designed are non-interchangeable or non-modular, which means that it is necessary to redefine a complete structure for each new user and / or each new mission.

In other words, upstream, the base element, the shell, also sees its architecture subject to the same parameters, that is to say that it can only be used under very specific conditions. Therefore, the modularity of the turret is often reduced to its simplest expression given the unique character of each project developed. For each new project, it is mandatory to rethink the architectural concept according to the needs of the user, which results in the fact that, in turn, the shell is not interchangeable vis-à-vis certain modules interior and / or exterior.

Currently, the proposed solutions are based on the fact that the hull of the turret is defined according to the specificities requested by the user without taking into account the interchangeability at the level of certain structures to be grafted. In other words, in most configurations, the modularity aspect is not present since the design of said shell is associated with a single project.

State of the art

The following documents have been identified in the state of the art.

In the document US20040183322 , a tank equipped with a cockpit carried by a caterpillar traction device and an armed station placed on the cabin roof such that the interior of the latter is subdivided into three regions: i) "front" in which are located the traction mechanisms and driver's seat, ii) "rear" at which appear the seats of the crew and iii) "intermediate" adapted for different purposes following the design of the vehicle, in particular for the adaptation of a turret and / or at least one seat for operators of the armed post and / or a storage compartment for ammunition and their loading devices. The first two regions have the same function for all variants of the vehicle while the third region is freer.

The document WO2009004136 discloses a light military vehicle combining a chassis equipped with mobility means and at least one armored habitable cabin fixed to the frame in a removable manner by securing means.

The document WO2004017012 discloses a rolling armored vehicle formed of several compartments: i) a pull section and ii) a mission section that can be detached from the rear portion of the pull section and can be coupled thereto via a vertical separation plane.

The document WO2013127654 discloses a turret for armored vehicle comprising firstly a structural unit metal, invariable and rigid having a central position in the turret and secondly at least one interchangeable module and removable by securing means.

The document FR2579946 discloses a multi-purpose tracked motor vehicle comprising a tracked hull. On the horizontal top of the frame of the shell is applied a plane on the upper face of which is mounted an element completing the architecture of the vehicle, rapid assembly means being provided both for the mounting of the interface on the chassis of the hull as for the mounting of the element completing the architecture of the vehicle.

The document DE19720815 discloses a combat structure having various sapped zones, one of which relates to the combat zone that can accommodate crew members as well as a set of electronic elements but also a cooling system.

The document FR3017700 discloses a modular weapon station comprising a rotatable frame adapted to be mounted on a platform, and having a removable cradle with a weapon mounted thereon.

The document DE3836718 discloses a turret characterized by a system of specific journals for interchanging a 105 mm caliber gun and a 120 mm caliber barrel in a simple manner by changing the height of the trunnion axis for armored vehicles of different sizes.

Other documents, such as EP2151659 , EP1318374 , EP2195601 , EP1955003 , EP1508765 , EP1468240 , US9194664 , WO2013010110 , US7513187 , US4601230 , US3566742 and WO2016060719 , are of interest but less significant than those described above.

This approach can be likened to an automobile assembly line at which the hull is associated with the chassis, and all the interior and / or exterior modules are defined as being the constituent elements of the final vehicle meeting the user's wishes. as well as market requirements / standards at functional, operational, ecological, etc. levels.

Goals of the invention

The present invention aims at setting up a standard and interchangeable architecture for the part commonly known as the hull of the turret, all in the same way as an automobile chassis at the level of which are grafted a plethora of electrical elements, electronic and mechanical considered indispensable and functional.

More specifically, the desired effect is to develop a standard and interchangeable structure for said shell, characterized in that it has a very wide set of interface means for grafting systematically or optionally at least a whole series of specific interior (basket, etc.) and / or exterior equipment (weapons of different calibres, close observation system (s), etc.) so that the occupants of the turret, ie the commander and the shooter, are at every moment in a similar environment, ie an environment that is independent of the number and nature of the modules and / or systems associated with the standard and interchangeable shell. The project is based on a notion of "commonality" vis-à-vis the management of various equipment. The commonality rate is a French term used in the automotive field for designate the number of parts, subassemblies, and assemblies common to several vehicle models.

In other words, the interior of the standard and interchangeable shell, and ultimately the turret, must have a minimum layout respected in all possible configurations, ie the basic workspace for the members of the turret. The crew remains the same in each structure as the layout of the interior systems respects the same philosophy. What needs to be standardized is the Human Machine Interface (HMI) system for the various electronic and mechanical turret control devices.

Main characteristic elements of the invention

• un module canon comprenant au moins un canon de calibre compris entre 20 mm et 130 mm, ce qui couvre la gamme des moyens et gros calibres,
• un module de stockage des munitions contenant au moins une structure portante, le bustle, ainsi qu'un système de chargement automatique ou manuel,
• un panier destiné à recevoir un équipage (constitué d'un à deux hommes) et des matériels (écrans, manettes, sièges, etc.) nécessaires à ce dernier pour piloter la tourelle mais également pour assurer le tir,
• un module présentant au moins une arme secondaire apparentée à une mitrailleuse coaxiale de petit calibre compris entre 5,56 mm et 15 mm,
• un système de visée,
• un système de blindage(s) additionnel(s),
• un système de lance-missile(s),
• un système de lance-grenade(s),
• un système de communication par ondes radios,
• un système d'observation rapprochée,
• un système de station météorologique,
• des épiscopes,
• des écoutilles,
• un système d'arme de toit,
• un système de détection de faisceau laser,
• un système de navigation,
• un système de contrôle électrique,
• un système de puissance,
• un système de « boresight » sous blindage,
• etc.

According to the invention, a standard and interchangeable shell has the possibility of being grafted in, systematically (for example in the case of the barrel) or optionally (in other cases of modules and / or systems), at least one or a combination appropriate structures described below corresponding to modules and / or interchangeable and removable systems:

• a barrel module comprising at least one barrel of caliber between 20 mm and 130 mm, which covers the range of means and large calibres,
• an ammunition storage module containing at least one supporting structure, the bustle, and an automatic or manual loading system,
• a basket intended to receive a crew (consisting of one to two men) and equipment (screens, levers, seats, etc.) necessary for the latter to fly the turret but also to ensure the shooting,
• a module having at least one secondary weapon related to a small coaxial machine gun between 5.56 mm and 15 mm,
• a sighting system,
• an additional shielding system (s),
• a missile launcher system,
• a grenade launcher system (s),
• a radio communication system,
• a close observation system,
• a weather station system,
• episcopes,
• hatches,
• a roof weapon system,
• a laser beam detection system,
• a navigation system,
• an electrical control system,
• a power system,
• a shielded "boresight" system,
• etc.

Ultimately , the standard and interchangeable shell has fixed interfaces rather than interchangeable parts therein.

From a practical and functional point of view, it should be noted that, in certain cases, the basket is not integrated with said standard and interchangeable shell. In this case, it is completely absent from the enclosure since the operations related to the operation of the turret take place directly from inside the armored vehicle itself by a member of the crew. This has the consequence that the commander and the shooter are not installed at the level of the basket but inside the vehicle.

The project currently being developed makes it possible to reach operational, functional, ergonomic and economic levels, etc. very high due to the interchangeability and standardization of the hull. Said interchangeability is a major advantage to respond effectively and quickly to various interior and / or exterior changes related to arrangements on the hull, and ultimately the turret, in order to align with the various specificities requested by the user and / or the current mission.

Thus, in fine , the architecture of the turret is obtained by the implementation of modules and / or predefined internal and / or external systems grafted at the level of the standard shell and interchangeable so that the various assembly combinations of said modules and / or systems constitute a new modular turret meeting the standard requirements. Thanks to the interchangeability and standardization of the hull, different variants of the turret will be proposed.

It should be noted that all the predefined modules are known per se to those skilled in the art and do not constitute the core of the invention.

One embodiment of the invention discloses a modular turret intended to be mounted on a shielded vehicle, comprising on the one hand an invariable and unique basic structure unit that can be interchangeable, called standard and interchangeable shell, equipped with means for interface, and secondly, systematically or optionally, a plurality of modules and / or functional systems interchangeable and removable, adapted to be secured to the standard shell by specific and distinctive binding means of the connection of each module and / or system to said standard and interchangeable shell, the interface means being thus designed to allow the assembly of all the different modules and / or systems of the same functional type on said standard shell at an interface zone on the latter, said standard and interchangeable shell comprising the assembly of a plurality of plates of shapes and dimensio ns different conferring on the standard and interchangeable shell a geometric shape of fixed dimensions, said plates may have orifices and / or connectors for fixing said modules and / or functional systems interchangeable and removable.

• les modules et/ou systèmes fonctionnels interchangeables et démontables sont sélectionnés dans le groupe constitué d'un module canon dans une gamme déterminée de calibres, allant des moyens aux gros calibres, un module d'arme secondaire de petit calibre, un panier, un système de visée, un module de stockage des munitions ou bustle un kit de surblindage, un système de lance-missile(s), un système de lance-grenade(s), un système d'observation rapprochée, un système de communication par ondes radios, une station météorologique, des écoutilles, des épiscopes, un système d'arme de toit, un système de détection de faisceau laser, un système de navigation, un système de contrôle électrique, un système de puissance, un système de « boresight » sous blindage, etc ;
• le calibre du module canon est compris entre 20 mm et 130 mm ;
• ladite pluralité de plaques est sélectionnée dans le groupe constitué de :
  • o une tôle de base constituant la base de la coque standard et interchangeable sur toute la superficie de celle-ci et percée en son centre pour délimiter la fixation d'un ring ;
  • o deux plaques de support de canon situées à l'avant de la coque standard et interchangeable et disposées perpendiculairement par rapport à la tôle de base, chacune des plaques comprenant un orifice destiné à recevoir un module canon de moyen ou gros calibre et/ou un module d'arme secondaire de petit calibre ;
  • o des tôles latérales partant des plaques de support de canon en suivant la tôle de base pour finir à l'arrière de la coque standard et interchangeable, lesdites tôles latérales présentant de préférence un angle inférieur à 90° par rapport à la tôle de base sur la face avant de la coque standard et interchangeable, et de préférence étant soudées de manière perpendiculaire à la tôle de base sur les côtés latéraux ;
  • o une plaque d'interface reliant les tôles latérales à l'arrière de la coque standard et interchangeable perpendiculairement à la tôle de base, ladite plaque d'interface étant un moyen d'attache pour un bustle ;
  • o des tôles supérieures coopérant avec les plaques de support de canon, les tôles latérales et la plaque d'interface pour fermer la coque standard et interchangeable ;
  • o des arches assurant la jonction entre l'avant et l'arrière de la coque standard et interchangeable, possédant une hauteur fixe et formant un canal rectiligne s'étendant des plaques de support de canon jusqu'à la plaque d'interface pour rigidifier la coque standard et interchangeable, de sorte que lesdites arches définissent à l'intérieur de la coque standard et interchangeable trois zones invariables d'un point de vue fonctionnel et structurel, indépendamment du module canon, à savoir une zone « tireur » à droite, en regardant depuis l'avant du véhicule, une zone « commandant » à gauche, et une zone « centrale » destinée à recevoir l'arme principale ; et
  • o un capot, surplombant les arches, conférant une rigidité supplémentaire à la coque standard et interchangeable, dont la forme et/ou la hauteur est dépendante du recul engendré par le module canon ;
• le module canon est interfacé à la coque standard et interchangeable entre les plaques de support de canon, soit par l'intermédiaire d'un support, du masque et de roulements, soit par l'intermédiaire de tourillons, rotules et flasques, le mode de fixation étant conçu pour être indépendant du calibre du module canon ;
• le module d'arme secondaire, dont le calibre est de préférence compris entre 5,56 mm et 15 mm, est interfacé à la coque standard et interchangeable, soit conjointement avec le module canon entre les plaques de support de canon au niveau du masque associé à la coque standard et interchangeable de sorte que le module canon et le module d'arme secondaire soient tous les deux fixés sur le masque lié à la coque standard et interchangeable, soit en dehors desdites plaques de support de canon de sorte que le module d'arme secondaire soit intégré en dehors dudit masque, soit encore à la fois entre les et en dehors des plaques de support de canon, les modes de fixation étant conçus pour être tous indépendants du calibre du module canon ;
• l'axe principal du module d'arme secondaire est orienté dans la même direction et le même sens que l'axe principal du module canon, autrement dit de manière telle qu'une coaxialité apparaisse entre les deux armes ;
• le module de stockage des munitions ou bustle est interfacé à la coque standard et interchangeable à l'arrière de cette dernière par l'intermédiaire de la plaque d'interface faisant office de moyen d'attache du bustle, celui-ci étant respectivement :
  • o en relation directe avec la coque standard et interchangeable dans le cas du module canon de moyen calibre, de sorte qu'un rack à munitions de la tourelle modulaire chevauche simultanément la coque standard et interchangeable et le bustle, la plaque d'interface épousant les tôle de base et latérales de préférence sur une largeur de quelques millimètres ;
  • o en relation indirecte avec la coque standard et interchangeable dans le cas du module canon de gros calibre, suite à la présence d'un « firewall », c'est-à-dire une plaque supplémentaire servant à isoler le compartiment de stockage des munitions i) en cas d'incendie, ii) en vue d'accroître le degré balistique, iii) afin d'augmenter la protection en cas d'explosion des munitions, iv) etc, s'apparentant à une jonction complète, la plaque d'interface fermant toute la superficie arrière de la coque standard et interchangeable en reliant les tôles de base et latérales, le bustle renfermant les munitions destinées à être acheminées jusqu'au module canon automatiquement respectivement de manière
    • longitudinale selon l'axe de celui-ci pour le module canon de gros calibre et
    • transversale à l'axe de celui-ci pour le module canon de moyen calibre,

• la pluralité de modules et/ou systèmes fonctionnels interchangeables et démontables est spécifiquement greffée aux mêmes endroits de la coque standard et interchangeable sans modifier les aspects structurels et fonctionnels de la coque standard et interchangeable et de manière indépendante vis-à-vis du calibre du module canon ;
• les zones d'interfaçage inutilisées sont recouvertes de plaques vierges fermées, éventuellement blindées par un kit de blindage additionnel ;
• l'assemblage de la pluralité de plaques de formes et dimensions différentes conférant à la coque standard et interchangeable une forme géométrique de dimensions fixes est un assemblage mécano-soudé alors que le capot, optionnel, est attaché à ladite coque standard et interchangeable à l'aide de vis ;
• la pluralité de modules et/ou systèmes fonctionnels interchangeables et démontables, quelle que soit leur spécificité, est greffée aux mêmes endroits de la coque standard et interchangeable, cette association, au niveau de la géométrie de la coque standard et interchangeable ainsi que des modes de fixation, étant indépendante du nombre et de la nature desdits modules et/ou systèmes, qu'ils soient intérieurs et/ou extérieurs, de manière telle que l'environnement dans lequel se trouve l'équipage de la tourelle modulaire, constitué de maximum deux personnes, à savoir un commandant et un tireur, reste identique à chaque instant alors que la configuration de la tourelle modulaire n'est pas figée dans le temps mais peut être évolutive temporellement, par exemple selon les mises à jour ainsi que les demandes de l'utilisateur, c'est-à-dire que la coque standard et interchangeable ou la tourelle modulaire s'articule sur une commonalité de la gestion des divers modules et/ou systèmes précités.

According to preferred embodiments, the modular turret further comprises, systematically or optionally, at least one of the following characteristics or an appropriate combination of several thereof:

• the interchangeable and removable modules and / or functional systems are selected from the group consisting of a barrel module in a given range of calibres, ranging from medium to large calibres, a small secondary weapon module, a basket, a system sighting, ammunition storage module or bustle an overblind kit, a missile launcher system (s), a grenade launcher system (s), a close-up observation system, a radio communication system , a weather station, hatches, episcopes, a roof weapon system, a laser beam detection system, a navigation system, an electrical control system, a power system, a "boresight" system under shielding, etc .;
• the caliber of the barrel module is between 20 mm and 130 mm;
• said plurality of plates is selected from the group consisting of:
  • o a base plate constituting the base of the standard shell and interchangeable over the entire surface thereof and pierced at its center to delimit the fixing of a ring;
  • two gun support plates situated at the front of the standard and interchangeable shell and arranged perpendicularly with respect to the base plate, each of the plates comprising an orifice intended to receive a medium or heavy gauge gun module and / or a secondary armature module of small caliber;
  • o side sheets starting from the gun support plates following the base plate to finish at the rear of the standard and interchangeable shell, said side plates preferably having an angle less than 90 ° with respect to the base plate on the front side of the standard and interchangeable shell, and preferably being welded perpendicularly to the base plate on the lateral sides;
  • an interface plate connecting the side plates to the rear of the standard and interchangeable shell perpendicularly to the base plate, said interface plate being an attachment means for a bustle;
  • o upper plates cooperating with the barrel support plates, the side plates and the interface plate to close the standard and interchangeable shell;
  • arches providing the junction between the front and the rear of the standard and interchangeable hull, having a fixed height and forming a straight channel extending from the gun support plates to the interface plate to stiffen the standard and interchangeable shell, so that said arches define within the standard and interchangeable shell three areas that are invariable from a functional and structural point of view, independently of the barrel module, namely a "shooter" zone on the right, in looking from the front of the vehicle, a "commander" zone on the left, and a "central" zone intended to receive the main weapon; and
  • o a hood, overhanging the arches, giving additional rigidity to the standard and interchangeable shell, whose shape and / or height is dependent on the recoil generated by the barrel module;
• the gun module is interfaced to the standard shell and interchangeable between the gun support plates, either via a support, the mask and bearings, or via pins, ball joints and flanges, the mode of fastener being designed to be independent of the caliber of the barrel module;
• the secondary weapon module, whose caliber is preferably between 5.56 mm and 15 mm, is interfaced with the standard and interchangeable shell, or together with the barrel module between the gun support plates at the associated mask the standard and interchangeable hull so that the gun module and the secondary weapon module are both attached to the mask attached to the standard and interchangeable hull, or out of said gun support plates so that the module secondary weapon is integrated outside said mask, or both between and outside the barrel support plates, the attachment modes being designed to be all independent of the caliber of the barrel module;
• the main axis of the secondary weapon module is oriented in the same direction and the same direction as the main axis of the gun module, in other words so that a coaxiality appears between the two weapons;
• the ammunition or bustle storage module is interfaced to the standard and interchangeable shell at the rear of the latter through the interface plate acting as means of attachment of the bustle, the latter being respectively:
  • o in direct relation with the standard and interchangeable shell in the case of the medium caliber gun module, so that a modular turret ammunition rack overlaps simultaneously the standard and interchangeable shell and the bustle, the interface plate matching the base and side plate preferably on a width of a few millimeters;
  • o in indirect relation with the standard shell and interchangeable in the case of the large caliber gun module, following the presence of a "firewall", that is to say an additional plate used to isolate the ammunition storage compartment (i) in the event of a fire, (ii) to increase the ballistic degree, (iii) in order to increase the protection in the event of an ammunition explosion, (iv) etc., similar to a complete junction, the interface plate closing the entire rear surface of the standard and interchangeable shell by connecting the base and side plates, the bustle enclosing the ammunition intended to be transported to the barrel module automatically respectively
    • along the axis of the latter for the heavy gauge barrel module and
    • transverse to the axis of the latter for the medium-caliber gun module,

• the plurality of interchangeable and removable modules and / or functional systems is specifically grafted at the same places of the standard and interchangeable shell without modifying the structural and functional aspects of the standard and interchangeable shell and independently of the module size. cannon;
• unused interfacing areas are covered with closed blank plates, possibly shielded by an additional shielding kit;
• the assembly of the plurality of plates of different shapes and sizes giving the standard and interchangeable shell a geometric shape of fixed dimensions is a mechanically welded assembly while the cover, optional, is attached to said standard shell and interchangeable to the help with screws;
• the plurality of modules and / or functional systems interchangeable and removable, regardless of their specificity, is grafted in the same places of the standard and interchangeable shell, this association, at the level of the geometry of the standard and interchangeable shell and the modes of fixing, being independent of the number and the nature of said modules and / or systems, whether they are internal and / or external, so that the environment in which the crew of the modular turret is located, consisting of maximum two people, namely a commander and a shooter, remains identical at every moment while the configuration of the modular turret is not fixed in time but can be evolutive temporally, for example according to the updates as well as the requests of the user, that is to say that the standard and interchangeable shell or the modular turret is articulated on a commonality of the management of the various modules e t / or systems mentioned above.

Brief description of the Figures

• La Figure 1 montre une vue en perspective d'une coque standard et interchangeable de tourelle modulaire selon la présente invention avec ses différentes plaques de blindage.
• La Figure 2 montre une vue en plan de la coque standard et interchangeable représentée à la Figure 1.
• La Figure 3 montre une vue éclatée du système de fixation du module canon de gros calibre et de moyen calibre respectivement.
• La Figure 4 montre une vue de face de la coque standard et interchangeable associée au panier.
• La Figure 5 montre une vue en perspective de l'emplacement des différents modules et/ou systèmes.

Embodiments of the invention are hereinafter described in more detail with the help of the accompanying Figures.

• The Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a standard and interchangeable modular turret shell according to the present invention with its different shield plates.
• The Figure 2 shows a plan view of the standard and interchangeable shell shown in the Figure 1 .
• The Figure 3 shows an exploded view of the fixing system of the heavy gauge and medium gauge barrel module respectively.
• The Figure 4 shows a front view of the standard and interchangeable shell associated with the basket.
• The Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the location of the different modules and / or systems.

Description of preferred embodiments of the invention

The basic element that is the subject of the invention is the shell.

From a structural point of view, this is an immutable element of the modular turret, which means that it is considered standard. It is an element consisting of several plates of different shapes and sizes, some of which may have circular holes, square, rectangular, etc.

These plates, assembled by welding, give a precise geometric shape to the standard shell defined by specific dimensions that will subsequently generate its modularity, this form taking into account several distinct characteristics, namely rigidity, mass, ergonomics, etc. in some cases, aerodynamics, aesthetics, etc. It appears that this assembly is independent of the number and nature of the modules and / or internal and / or external grafted systems, but it turns out that the dimensions are fixed at a given instant "t", in other words alone (e) l layout (configuration) of the standard hull may undergo some modifications depending on the user's requests. This is why, thanks to this notion of commonality / standardization, the response time with respect to possible adaptations is very short in order to quickly and efficiently meet the requirements of the user.

On the other hand, over the entire surface of the standard shell, appear interfacing areas with said modules and / or systems via a set of connections and appropriate securing means. These areas are located in strategic locations defined by both the user and the mission's issues. If these areas are unused, they can of course be covered by blank plates to optimize the specific features described above as well as the internal and external safety of the standard shell (the overall shield level is described below) .

In most of the situations encountered, these various equipment (modules and / or systems) inside and / or outside are positioned at the same places in and / or on the standard hull, which allows the crew to be confronted at every moment to a similar operating environment independent of the number and nature of the modules and / or systems inside and / or outside.

As regards the specific dimensions of each plate, they are not considered as a limiting and binding element of the invention. Indeed, some variations may appear (that is to say for example an increase thereof) but will not change the standardization of the hull. They will potentially promote an increase in the available interior space for grafting larger modules and / or systems (volumetric aspect) or more modules and / or systems (quantitative aspect).

• tôle de base 2 : plaque constituant la base de la coque standard 1 sur toute la superficie de la coque 1 et percée en son centre pour délimiter la fixation du ring 3. Cela constitue l'interface entre le véhicule et la coque standard 1. Le diamètre du ring 3 est variable selon le type de véhicule, autrement dit il oscille entre 1200 mm et 2200 mm ;
• plaques de support de canon 4: deux composants structurés disposés perpendiculairement par rapport à la tôle de base 2 et situés à l'avant de la coque standard 1. Ils sont caractérisés chacun par un orifice destiné à recevoir un module canon 5 de moyen ou gros calibre ainsi que potentiellement un module d'arme secondaire 6 de petit calibre ;
• tôles latérales 7 : plaques partant des plaques de support de canon 4 en suivant la tôle de base 2 pour finir à l'arrière de la coque standard 1. Sur la face avant de la coque standard 1, elles présentent un angle inférieur à 90° par rapport à la tôle de base 2 (cela dépend des modules et/ou systèmes extérieurs associés) alors que latéralement, elles sont généralement et préférentiellement soudées perpendiculairement à la tôle de base 2 ;
• plaque d'interface 8 : plaque reliant les tôles latérales 7 à l'arrière de la coque standard 1. Autrement dit, cette plaque 8 s'insère perpendiculairement à la tôle de base 2. Elle est considérée comme un moyen d'attache avec le bustle 9, le bustle 9 étant la structure faisant entre autres office de caisse à munitions mais également qui peut remplir d'autres fonctions moyennant quelques aménagements. Pour le module canon 5 de moyen calibre, la plaque d'interface 8 épouse les tôle de base 2 et latérales 7 sur une largeur de quelques millimètres de sorte que le bustle 9 est en relation directe avec la coque standard 1, ce qui permet au rack à munitions (voire n'importe quel dispositif de stockage et d'acheminement des munitions) de chevaucher simultanément la coque standard 1 et le bustle 9. Dans le cas du module canon 5 de gros calibre, ladite plaque d'interface 8 présente les mêmes caractéristiques et fonctions mais se voit associer une plaque supplémentaire, appelée « firewall », s'apparentant à une jonction complète (fermeture totale) entre lesdites tôles 2, 7, et ledit bustle 9 ;
• tôles supérieures 10 : plaques fermant la coque standard 1 en s'associant aux plaques de support de canon 4, tôles latérales 7, et plaque d'interface 8 ;
• arches 11 : structures assurant la jonction entre l'avant et l'arrière de la coque standard 1. Elles apparaissent sous la forme d'un canal rectiligne i) issu des plaques de support de canon 4 jusqu'à la plaque d'interface 8 afin de rigidifier la coque standard 1, et ii) caractérisé par une certaine hauteur fixe. Ainsi, comme le montre la Figure 4, elles définissent systématiquement trois zones identiques d'un point de vue fonctionnel et structurel, indépendamment du module canon 5, rencontrées à l'intérieur de la coque standard 1, à savoir une zone « tireur » (à droite, en regardant depuis l'avant du véhicule), une zone « commandant » (à gauche), et une zone « centrale » destinée à recevoir l'arme principale 5. Ces trois zones spécifiques apparaissent de manière similaire au niveau du panier 12 localisé à l'intérieur de la tourelle modulaire 13. Lors du tir, certaines composantes du module canon 5 subissent un recul. Celui-ci est significatif pour les munitions de gros calibre et insignifiant dans le cas des munitions de moyen calibre. Pour intégrer ce phénomène physique, il a été placé un capot 14, surplombant les arches 11, dont la forme, et donc la hauteur, est de ce fait dépendante du recul engendré par certaines composantes du module canon 5. C'est pourquoi, en plus de sa fonction liée au blindage, le capot 14 présente une fonction structurelle conférant une rigidité supplémentaire à la coque standard 1.

As shown mainly by Figures 1 , 2 and 3 among the plates defined above associated with the standard shell 1 appear the following elements:

• base plate 2: plate constituting the base of the standard hull 1 over the entire surface of the hull 1 and pierced at its center to delimit the fixing ring 3. This is the interface between the vehicle and the standard hull 1. The ring 3 diameter is variable depending on the type of vehicle, ie it oscillates between 1200 mm and 2200 mm;
• barrel support plates 4: two structured components arranged perpendicular to the base plate 2 and located at the front of the standard shell 1. They are each characterized by an orifice intended to receive a gun module 5 of medium or large caliber as well as potentially a secondary 6 small arms module;
• side plates 7: plates starting from the barrel support plates 4 following the base plate 2 to finish at the rear of the standard shell 1. On the front face of the standard shell 1, they have an angle less than 90 ° relative to the base plate 2 (this depends on the modules and / or external systems associated) while laterally, they are generally and preferably welded perpendicularly to the base plate 2;
• interface plate 8: plate connecting the side plates 7 to the rear of the standard shell 1. In other words, this plate 8 is inserted perpendicular to the base plate 2. It is considered as a means of attachment with the bustle 9, the bustle 9 is the structure making among other things office ammunition box but also that can fulfill other functions with some adjustments. For the medium-caliber barrel module 5 , the interface plate 8 matches the base 2 and lateral plate 7 over a width of a few millimeters so that the bustle 9 is in direct relationship with the standard shell 1, which allows the ammunition rack (or any device for storing and transporting ammunition) to simultaneously overlap the standard shell 1 and the bustle 9. In the case of the large caliber gun module 5 , said interface plate 8 presents the same characteristics and functions but is associated with an additional plate, called "firewall", similar to a complete junction (total closure) between said sheets 2, 7, and said bustle 9;
• upper plates 10: plates closing the standard shell 1 by associating with the gun support plates 4, side plates 7, and interface plate 8;
• arches 11: structures providing the junction between the front and the rear of the standard shell 1. They appear in the form of a rectilinear channel i) issuing from the barrel support plates 4 up to the interface plate 8 to stiffen the standard shell 1, and ii) characterized by a certain fixed height. So, as shown in Figure 4 , they systematically define three zones identical from a functional and structural point of view, independently of the gun module 5, encountered inside the standard hull 1, namely a "shooter" zone (on the right, looking from the front of the vehicle), a zone "commander" (left), and a "central" zone intended to receive the main weapon 5. These three specific zones appear similarly to the level of the basket 12 located inside the modular turret 13. firing, some components of the canon 5 module are shrinking. This is significant for large caliber ammunition and insignificant for medium caliber ammunition. To integrate this physical phenomenon, it has been placed a hood 14, overlooking the arches 11, whose shape, and therefore the height, is therefore dependent on the recoil generated by certain components of the gun module 5. This is why, in more than its function related to the shield, the cover 14 has a structural function giving additional rigidity to the standard shell 1.

From a functional point of view now, the standard shell 1 described above has the characteristic of being interchangeable vis-à-vis a series of modules and / or systems and / or exterior. These come integrate / graft on the standard shell 1 according to appropriate methods of fixing and according to the criteria defined by both the user and the stakes of the mission. In fine , the characteristic arrangement of all the modules described below makes it possible to obtain a modular turret 13 from a standard and interchangeable shell 1.

Among the various modules and / or systems, the integration of the gun module 5 constitutes the heart of the present invention. It operates at the front of said standard shell and interchangeable 1, and conditions all the reflection related to the interchangeability and size of the latter.

• caractérisé par des calibres compris entre 20 mm et 130 mm, autrement dit des calibres couvrant la gamme des moyens et gros calibres. Le choix du calibre du module canon 5 est fonction des exigences de l'utilisateur ainsi que des missions envisagées ;
• solidaire de la coque standard et interchangeable 1 par un système d'interfaçage spécifique, le système d'interfaçage reprenant les spécificités des interfaces tant de la coque standard et interchangeable 1 que du module canon 5.

The canon module 5 is:

• characterized by sizes ranging from 20 mm to 130 mm, that is to say sizes covering the range of means and large sizes. The choice of the caliber of the canon module 5 is a function of the requirements of the user as well as the missions envisaged;
• secured to the standard and interchangeable shell 1 by a specific interfacing system, the interfacing system incorporating the specificities of the interfaces of both the standard and interchangeable shell 1 and the gun module 5.

• la première voie s'opère par l'intermédiaire d'un support 15 (pouvant être optionnel), du masque 16 et de roulements 17 ;
• la seconde piste privilégie l'utilisation de tourillons 18, rotules 19 ainsi que de flasques 20.

Thus, at the level of the fastening system ( Figure 3 ), two approaches have been favored in the present invention:

• the first path is effected via a support 15 (which may be optional), the mask 16 and bearings 17;
• the second track favors the use of pins 18, ball joints 19 and flanges 20.

In one case as in the other, it is possible to integrate either the gun unit 5 medium caliber or the gun module 5 large caliber, which results in that the method of attachment is optimized for the the caliber of the canon module 5 envisaged, while the interface of the standard and interchangeable shell 1 is independent of said caliber. This implies that the support 15 (present or not), the mask 16 and the bearings 17 as well as the journals 18, ball joints 19 and flanges 20 are considered as intermediate fastening parts easily interchangeable on the standard and interchangeable shell 1.

Thus, the standard and interchangeable shell 1 is not previously dedicated to a gun module 5 of defined caliber but was designed and optimized geometrically for a range of calibers of the inserted gun module 5 .

The standardization / neutrality of the standard and interchangeable shell 1 remains valid vis-à-vis the vehicles, in other words all geometric and functional parameters have been optimized regardless of the vehicle on which said standard and interchangeable shell 1.

In addition, the optimization of the geometry of the standard and interchangeable shell 1 took into account the movement of certain components of the gun module 5, said movement with respect to a horizontal axis parallel to the base plate 2 having both an elevation and a depression. Thus, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, in the case of the mechanical stop, the elevation reaches a value of + 42 ° while the depression indicates a value of -10 ° for the module 5 of large caliber while the values are respectively + 60 ° and -10 ° for the canon module 5 of medium caliber. Given these geometric and numerical characteristics, the object of the invention highlights the compromise between the latter as a function of contractual requirements. It should be noted that these angular values can fluctuate further with some modifications in the integration of the modules and / or interior systems.

In view of the geometric characteristics described above and taking into account the caliber of the barrel module 5, it appears that, at the ring 3, the axis of rotation of the standard and interchangeable shell 1, and implicitly of the modular turret 13 is symmetrical in all cases. On the other hand, the positioning of the barrel module 5 is not identical as a function of the caliber studied: i) for the large caliber barrel module 5 , the latter 5 is centered with respect to the standard and interchangeable shell 1, while ii) to the barrel module 5 of medium caliber, it 5 may be slightly off center, for example, to facilitate the cross-feeding ammunition.

Regarding the module of the secondary weapon 6, it is generally related to a coaxial machine gun characterized by a gauge extending from 5.56 mm to 15 mm, regardless of the caliber of the gun module 5, and preferably 7, 62 mm.

Like the fixing modes previously defined for the barrel module 5, the positioning of the secondary weapon module 6 is independent of the caliber of the barrel module 5 but has been preferentially selected according to the constraints proposed by each of them. In other words, even if the structural aspect allows any insertion, the functional aspect plays a preponderant role in the choice of location.

Therefore, the three possibilities of integration of the secondary weapon module 6 are as follows: i) the distance between the two gun support plates 4 is such that it is possible to jointly insert the barrel module 5 and that the secondary weapon module 6, which means that they are fixed directly on the mask 16, ii) the secondary weapon module 6 is integrated outside said mask 16 by considering the gun module 5 introduced alone between the two gun support plates 4, and iii) the secondary weapon module 6 is located both on and off the mask 16, in which case the standard and interchangeable shell 1 contains two secondary weapon modules 6 simultaneously in the presence of the canon module 5.

Following the characteristics mentioned above, the coaxiality is based on the fact that the machine gun 6 has its main axis in the same direction and the same meaning as those defined by the gun module 5. For information, it should be noted that the secondary weapon module 6 can also graft to another place on the standard and interchangeable shell 1, which place is not necessarily near the canon module 5.

In addition to the canon module 5, the present invention makes it possible to integrate other modules and / or systems on the standard and interchangeable shell 1 without modifying the structural and functional aspects of the latter 1. In other words, the integration of these it is also independent of the caliber of the canon module 5 following a significant set of interface means for each of them.

In other words, the modules and / or external and / or internal systems are interchangeable for both the means and for the large calibres of the gun module 5 so that the crew members can be confronted every moment with a similar work environment in terms of ergonomics, features, etc.

1. i) le module de stockage des munitions, formé par une structure métallique fermée et blindée, le bustle 9, comprenant, suivant le calibre du module canon 5, un rack à munitions automatique ou manuel.
   Le bustle 9 est attaché à l'arrière de la coque standard et interchangeable 1 au niveau de la plaque d'interface 8 par des moyens de solidarisation particuliers en intégrant simultanément des moyens d'étanchéité. Selon l'invention, une approche par vis/écrous associée à des moyens d'étanchéité a été retenue. La taille du bustle 9 est fonction du calibre du module canon 5 et du nombre de munitions embarquées.
   Dans le cas des munitions de :
   • o gros calibre, le stockage de celles-ci s'opère uniquement dans le bustle 9, en vue de monter éventuellement un « firewall » entre celui-ci 9 et la coque standard et interchangeable 1 ;
   • o de moyen calibre, elles apparaissent localisées à la fois dans la coque standard et interchangeable 1 et le bustle 9 de manière continue sans « firewall ».
   Vis-à-vis de l'alimentation des munitions jusqu'au module canon 5 et, in fine, l'éjection de ces dernières (nommées « munitions principales »), cela s'effectue depuis l'arrière (bustle 9) vers l'avant (module canon 5) de la coque standard et interchangeable 1 selon deux approches distinctes :
   • o pour les munitions de gros calibres,
     • ▪ elles sont acheminées automatiquement ou manuellement de manière longitudinale, suivant le même axe que celui défini par le module canon 5 ;
     • ▪ après le tir, les douilles seules sont éjectées vers le bas et récupérées manuellement par l'opérateur interne,
   • o pour les munitions de moyen calibre,
     • ▪ elles sont amenées suivant un trajet transversal au travers d'une série de dispositifs spécifiques (boîtes à rochet, convoyeurs et flexibles) localisés au niveau de la tôle latérale 7 à côté du commandant dans le cas présent, ce qui permet aux flexibles de passer au travers de la plaque de support de canon 4 gauche afin de libérer les munitions dans le module canon 5 ;
     • ▪ les douilles, après le tir, sont éjectées automatiquement soit par l'avant du masque 16 au travers d'un orifice localisé à hauteur du module canon 5, soit latéralement à celui-ci 16, alors que les maillons sont évacués par la plaque de support de canon 4 opposée (droite) au travers de conduits spécifiques
   Pour le module d'arme secondaire 6, les munitions (appelées « munitions secondaires ») sont stockées dans une boîte à l'intérieur de la coque standard et interchangeable 1 et sont acheminées audit module d'arme secondaire 6 uniquement par l'action de celui-ci 6. Le mode de fonctionnement repose sur les approches suivantes :
   • un système basé sur la récupération des gaz ;
   • un système basé sur l'exploitation du recul du module d'arme secondaire 6 ou
   • une motorisation de ladite arme secondaire 6.
   Il est à noter que dans certains cas de figure, cette alimentation s'opère en passant au travers de flexibles afin d'atteindre la plaque de support de canon 4.
   L'éjection de ces munitions secondaires suit deux approches spécifiques :
   • pour un module canon 5 de gros calibre, les munitions secondaires sont éjectées et récupérées dans un récupérateur ;
   • pour un module canon 5 de moyen calibre, les munitions secondaires sont éjectées soit au travers de conduits spécifiques localisés entre les deux plaques de support de canon 4 de sorte qu'elles finissent automatiquement leur course à l'extérieur de la tourelle modulaire 13 à l'instar des maillons des munitions principales, soit à l'intérieur du véhicule sous la tôle de base 2 induisant une intrusion plus significative, et donc un encombrement plus important. En amont de ces deux opérations (acheminement et éjection) apparaît le (re)chargement des munitions. Peu importe le calibre de ces dernières, il s'opère soit depuis l'extérieur de la tourelle modulaire 13, soit depuis l'intérieur de celle-ci 13 suite à ses aménagements et architectures optimisés et structurés. Dans les deux cas de figure, c'est l'ensemble des conditions (menaces de l'ennemi, relief du terrain, etc.) dans lesquelles se trouvent les membres de l'équipage qui conditionnent préférentiellement une approche
2. ii) la zone destinée à l'équipage, alias le panier 12, qui est fixé à la coque standard et interchangeable 1 au niveau de la tôle de base 2 par des moyens de solidarisation.
   Cette structure, généralement métallique, présente les postes de commandement et de tir pour, respectivement, le commandant et le tireur, postes équipés des différents dispositifs électroniques et/ou mécaniques de contrôle de la tourelle modulaire 13 (HMI, Human Machine Interface) nécessaires et indispensables aux actions associées.
   De plus, elle est caractérisée par une troisième zone au niveau de laquelle certaines composantes du module canon 5 viennent s'insérer exclusivement lors du tir, ce qui implique qu'elle y est totalement sécurisée pour les membres de l'équipage.
   La nature du panier 12 est indépendante du calibre du module canon 5, autrement dit il s'agit d'une structure standard caractérisée par un agencement personnalisé en fonction des demandes de l'utilisateur.
   Dans certains cas de figure, la tourelle modulaire 13 est caractérisée par une absence du panier 12, ce qui a pour conséquence un contrôle depuis l'intérieur du véhicule lui-même.
3. iii) le système de visée 21 venant s'insérer (in)directement sur la (les) tôle(s) supérieure(s) 10. Un exemple de configuration est représenté à la Figure 5.
   Les moyens de solidarisation sont fonction des spécificités de chaque système de visée présent sur le marché.
4. iv) en ce qui concerne l'aspect lié au blindage, ladite coque standard et interchangeable 1 est constituée d'une enveloppe extérieure blindée subdivisée en des zones spécifiques géométriquement parlant définies soit par l'emplacement des modules et/ou systèmes extérieurs, soit par des espaces vierges susceptibles d'être potentiellement utilisés ultérieurement pour y attacher un (ou plusieurs) module(s) et/ou système(s) extérieur(s).
   Certaines zones peuvent être soumises à un indice de blindage différent étant donné qu'elles renferment/protègent un environnement plus vulnérable tel que les occupants, les munitions, etc. Ainsi, le surblindage se traduit par le fait que un kit de blindage additionnel 22 est placé au niveau de ces endroits spécifiques de la coque standard et interchangeable 1.
   Autrement dit, la protection balistique n'est pas uniforme sur l'ensemble de la coque standard et interchangeable 1 mais répond aux contraintes intérieures (personne et/ou matériel) mais également aux exigences de l'utilisateur. Ainsi, des connecteurs métalliques assurent la jonction entre la coque standard et interchangeable 1 et ledit kit 22, et leur nombre est considéré fixe par coque standard et interchangeable 1. Toutefois, en fonction du surblindage souhaité par l'utilisateur, tous ne sont pas systématiquement utilisés. Si ledit surblindage doit évoluer en cours du temps, les connecteurs non-utilisés peuvent être à nouveau fonctionnels moyennant certaines adaptations. Un exemple de configuration est représenté à la Figure 5.
5. v) un système de lance-missile(s), de lance-grenade(s), d'observation rapprochée, de communication par ondes radios, de station météorologique, des écoutilles, des épiscopes, un système d'arme de toit, un système de détection de faisceau laser, un système de navigation, un système de contrôle électrique, un système de puissance, un système de « boresight » sous blindage, 23, etc. connecté(s) à la coque standard et interchangeable 1 par un système de support et un ensemble de vis et d'écrous. La fixation s'opère au niveau soit des tôles latérales 7, soit du bustle 9, etc.
   Un exemple de configuration est représenté à la Figure 5.

Among the various modules and / or systems envisaged are systematically or optionally included at least one module and / or system (or a combination of said modules and / or systems) ( Figures 4 and 5 ):

1. i) the ammunition storage module, formed by a closed and shielded metal structure, the bustle 9, comprising, according to the caliber of the gun module 5, an automatic or manual ammunition rack.
   The bustle 9 is attached to the rear of the standard and interchangeable shell 1 at the interface plate 8 by particular securing means by simultaneously integrating sealing means. According to the invention, a screw / nut approach associated with sealing means has been retained. The size of the bustle 9 is a function of the caliber of the gun module 5 and the number of onboard ammunition.
   In the case of ammunition:
   • o large caliber, the storage of it occurs only in the bustle 9, to eventually mount a "firewall" between it 9 and the standard shell and interchangeable 1;
   • o of medium caliber, they appear localized both in the standard and interchangeable shell 1 and the bustle 9 in a continuous manner without "firewall".
   With respect to the supply of ammunition up to the gun module 5 and, in the end , the ejection of the latter (called "main ammunition"), this is done from the rear (bustle 9 ) to the before (canon module 5 ) of the standard and interchangeable shell 1 according to two distinct approaches:
   • o for large caliber ammunition,
     • ▪ They are routed automatically or manually longitudinally along the same axis as defined by the gun module 5;
     • ▪ after firing, the sockets alone are ejected downwards and retrieved manually by the internal operator,
   • o for medium caliber ammunition,
     • ▪ they are fed in a transverse path through a series of specific devices (ratchet boxes, conveyors and hoses) located at the side plate 7 next to the commander in this case, which allows the hoses to pass through the left barrel support plate 4 to release the ammunition in the barrel module 5;
     • The sockets, after firing, are ejected automatically either from the front of the mask 16 through a hole located at the height of the barrel module 5, or laterally thereto 16, whereas the links are evacuated by the plate Opposite gun support 4 (right) through specific ducts
   For the secondary weapon module 6, the munitions (called "secondary ammunition") are stored in a box inside the standard and interchangeable shell 1 and are conveyed to said secondary weapon module 6 only by the action of 6. The mode of operation is based on the following approaches:
   • a system based on gas recovery;
   • a system based on the exploitation of the recoil of the secondary weapon module 6 or
   • a motorization of said secondary weapon 6.
   It should be noted that in some cases, this supply is effected by passing through hoses in order to reach the gun support plate 4.
   The ejection of these secondary ammunition follows two specific approaches:
   • Module 5 for a gun of large caliber ammunition side are ejected and recovered in a recovery;
   • for a medium caliber gun module 5 , the secondary ammunition is ejected either through specific ducts located between the two gun support plates 4 so that they automatically end their race outside the modular turret 13 to the gun. Like the links of the main ammunition, either inside the vehicle under the base plate 2 inducing a more significant intrusion, and therefore a larger footprint. Upstream of these two operations (routing and ejection) appears the (re) loading of ammunition. Regardless of the caliber of the latter, it operates either from outside the modular turret 13, or from within it 13 as a result of its optimized and structured arrangements and architectures. In both cases, it is the set of conditions (enemy threats, terrain relief, etc.) in which the crew members find themselves preferentially conditioning an approach.
2. ii) the area intended for the crew, aka the basket 12, which is fixed to the standard and interchangeable shell 1 at the level of the base plate 2 by securing means.
   This structure, generally metallic, presents the command and shooting positions for, respectively, the commander and the shooter, positions equipped with the various electronic and / or mechanical control devices of the modular turret 13 (HMI, Human Machine Interface) necessary and indispensable to the associated actions.
   In addition, it is characterized by a third zone at which certain components of the gun module 5 are inserted exclusively during shooting, which implies that it is completely secure for the crew members.
   The nature of the basket 12 is independent of the caliber of the barrel module 5, in other words it is a standard structure characterized by a personalized arrangement according to the demands of the user.
   In some cases, the modular turret 13 is characterized by an absence of the basket 12, which results in control from inside the vehicle itself.
3. iii) the sighting system 21 being inserted (in) directly on the upper sheet (s) 10. An exemplary configuration is shown in FIG. Figure 5 .
   The securing means are a function of the specificities of each sighting system present on the market.
4. iv) with regard to the shielding aspect, said standard and interchangeable shell 1 consists of a shielded outer shell subdivided into specific geometrically defined zones defined either by the location of the modules and / or external systems, or by blank spaces that could potentially be used later to attach one (or more) module (s) and / or external system (s).
   Some areas may be subject to a different shielding index since they contain / protect a more vulnerable environment such as occupants, ammunition, etc. Thus, overblanking results in the fact that an additional shielding kit 22 is placed at these specific locations of the standard and interchangeable shell 1.
   In other words, the ballistic protection is not uniform over the entire standard and interchangeable shell 1 but responds to the internal constraints (person and / or equipment) but also to the requirements of the user. Thus, metal connectors provide the junction between the standard and interchangeable shell 1 and said kit 22, and their number is considered fixed by standard shell and interchangeable 1. However, depending on the overblanking desired by the user, not all are systematically used. If said overblanking must evolve over time, the unused connectors can be functional again with some adaptations. An example configuration is shown in the Figure 5 .
5. (v) a missile launcher (s), grenade launcher (s), close observation, radio communication, weather station, hatches, borescope, roof laser beam detection system, a navigation system, a control system electrical system, a power system, a shielded "boresight" system, 23, etc. connected to the standard and interchangeable shell 1 by a support system and a set of screws and nuts. Fixing takes place at either the side plates 7 or the bustle 9, etc.
   An example configuration is shown in the Figure 5 .

Reference symbols

1

shell

2

base plate

3

ring

4

gun support plate

5

canon module

6

secondary weapon

7

side plate

8

interface plate

9

bustle

10

upper plate

11

ark

12

basket

13

turret

14

hood

15

support

16

mask

17

rolling

18

trunnion

19

patella

20

flabby

21

sighting system

22

surblindage

23

hatch, periscope, ...

Claims (12)

Modular turret ( 13 ) intended to be mounted on a shielded vehicle, comprising on the one hand an invariable and unique basic structure unit that can be interchangeable, called standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ), equipped with interface means, and on the other hand, systematically or optionally, a plurality of interchangeable and removable modules and / or functional systems ( 5 , 6, 9, 12, 21, 22, 23 ), able to be secured to the standard and interchangeable shell (1) by means of specific and distinctive fixing means of the connection of each module to said standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ), the interface means being thus designed to allow assembly of all the different modules and / or systems of the same functional type on said standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) at an interfacing zone on the latter ( 1 ), said standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) comprising the assembly of a plurality e of plates of different shapes and sizes giving the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) a geometric shape of fixed dimensions, said plates may have orifices and / or connectors for fixing said modules and / or functional systems interchangeable and removable. Modular turret ( 13 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the interchangeable and removable modules and / or functional systems are selected, systematically or optionally, in the group consisting of at least one gun module ( 5 ) in a given range of calibres, ranging from medium to large calibres, secondary weapon module ( 6 ) of small caliber, basket ( 12 ), sighting system ( 21 ), ammunition storage module or bustle (9), kit overshoot device ( 22 ), missile launcher system (s), grenade launcher system (s), close observation system, radio communication system, weather station, hatches, episcopes , a roof weapon system, a laser beam detection system, a navigation system, an electronic control system, a power system, and / or a shielded "boresight" system ( 23 ). Modular turret ( 13 ) according to claim 2, characterized in that the caliber of the barrel module ( 5 ) is between 20 mm and 130 mm. Modular turret ( 13 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that said plurality of plates is selected from the group consisting of: - a base plate ( 2 ) constituting the base of the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) over the entire surface thereof ( 1 ), and pierced at its center to define the fixing of a ring ( 3 ); two gun support plates ( 4 ) located at the front of the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ), and arranged perpendicular to the base plate ( 2 ), each of the plates ( 4 ) comprising an orifice intended for receiving a gun module ( 5 ) of medium or large caliber and / or a secondary weapon module ( 6 ) of small caliber; - side plates ( 7 ) extending from the barrel support plates ( 4 ) following the base plate ( 2 ) to finish at the rear of the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ), said side plates ( 7 ) having preferably an angle less than 90 ° with respect to the base plate ( 2 ) on the front side of the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ), and preferably being welded perpendicularly to the base plate ( 2 ) on the sides lateral; - an interface plate ( 8 ) connecting the side plates ( 7 ) to the rear of the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) perpendicularly to the base plate ( 2 ), said interface plate ( 8 ) being a means fastening for a bustle ( 9 ); - Upper plates ( 10 ) cooperating with the barrel support plates ( 4 ), the side plates ( 7 ), and the interface plate ( 8 ) to close the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ); arches ( 11 ) providing the junction between the front and the rear of the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ), having a fixed height and forming a rectilinear channel extending from the barrel support plates ( 4 ) to to the interface plate ( 8 ) to stiffen the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ), so that said arches ( 11 ) define within the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) three invariable areas of a functional and structural view, independently of the gun module ( 5 ), namely a "shooter" zone on the right, looking from the front of the vehicle, a "commander" zone on the left, and a "central" zone intended to receive the main weapon ( 5 ); and - A cover ( 14 ), overlooking the arches ( 11 ), providing additional rigidity to the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ), the shape and / or height is (are) dependent (s) recoil generated by the module cannon ( 5 ). Modular turret ( 13 ) according to claim 4, characterized in that the barrel module ( 5 ) is interfaced to the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) between the gun support plates ( 4 ), either via a support ( 15 ), which may be optional), the mask ( 16 ) and bearings ( 17 ), or by means of journals ( 18). ), ball joints ( 19 ) and flanges ( 20 ), the attachment mode being designed to be independent of the caliber of the barrel module ( 5 ). Modular turret ( 13 ) according to claim 4, characterized in that the secondary weapon module ( 6 ) is interfaced to the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ), or together with the barrel module ( 5 ) between the support plates of gun ( 4 ) at the mask ( 16 ) so that the gun module ( 5 ) and the secondary weapon module ( 6 ) are both attached to the mask ( 20 ), or apart from said support plates gun ( 4 ) so that the secondary weapon module ( 6 ) is integrated outside said mask ( 16 ), or at the same time between and outside the gun support plates ( 4 ), the modes of attachment being designed to be independent of the caliber of the barrel module ( 5 ). Modular turret ( 13 ) according to claim 6, characterized in that the main axis of the secondary weapon module ( 6 ) is oriented in the same direction and the same direction as the main axis of the gun module ( 5 ), otherwise said in such a way that a coaxiality appears between the two weapons ( 5, 6 ). Modular turret ( 13 ) according to claim 4, characterized in that the ammunition storage module or bustle ( 9 ) is interfaced to the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) at the rear of the latter ( 1 ) via the interface plate ( 8 ) serving as means for attaching the bustle ( 9 ), the latter being respectively: in direct relation with the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) in the case of the medium-caliber gun module ( 5 ), so that an ammunition rack of the modular turret ( 13 ) simultaneously overlaps the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1). ) and the bustle ( 9 ), the interface plate ( 8 ) conforming to the base plate ( 2 ) and laterally ( 7 ) preferably over a width of a few millimeters; in indirect relation with the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) in the case of the large caliber gun module ( 5 ), following the presence of a "firewall", that is to say an additional plate, showing a complete junction, the interface plate ( 8 ) closing the entire rear area of the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) by connecting the base ( 2 ) and side plates ( 7 ), the bustle ( 9 ) enclosing the ammunition intended to be conveyed up to the barrel module ( 5 ) automatically respectively: - longitudinal along the axis thereof ( 5 ) for the barrel module ( 5 ) of large caliber and transverse to the axis thereof ( 5 ) for the barrel module ( 5 ) of medium caliber. Modular turret ( 13 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of interchangeable and removable modules and / or functional systems ( 5, 6, 9, 12, 21, 22, 23 ) is specifically grafted to the same locations on the hull. standard and interchangeable ( 1 ) without modifying the structural and functional aspects of the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) and independently of the caliber of the barrel module ( 5 ). Modular turret ( 13 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the unused interface areas are covered with closed blank plates, possibly shielded by an additional shielding kit ( 22 ). Modular turret ( 13 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the assembly of the plurality of plates of different shapes and dimensions giving the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) a geometric shape of fixed dimensions is a welded joint. Modular turret ( 13 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of interchangeable and removable modules and / or functional systems ( 5, 6, 9, 12, 21, 22, 23 ), whatever their specificity, is grafted in the same places of the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ), this association, in terms of the geometry of the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) as well as the attachment modes, being independent of the number and nature of said modules and / or systems, whether indoor and / or outdoor, such that the immediate control environment such as HMI, seats, etc. wherein the crew of the modular turret ( 13 ) and the positioning of said crew, consisting of a maximum of two persons, namely a commander and a shooter, remain identical at each moment while the configuration of the modular turret ( 13 ) is not fixed in time but can be temporally progressive, for example according to the updates as well as the requests of the user, that is to say that the standard and interchangeable shell ( 1 ) or the turret modular ( 13 ) is based on a commonality of the management of the various modules and / or systems mentioned above.

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