EP3469299B1 - Modular turret - Google Patents

Description

Subject of the invention

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

By definition, the shell is the armored framework in which and / or on which can be inserted and / or attached, via distinctive interfaces, at least systematically or optionally one (or an appropriate combination of) element (s) such as the barrel of variable calibers (from medium to large), a sighting system, a basket containing a set of electronic and mechanical components, a bustle containing ammunition of medium or large caliber, a system of missile launcher (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 unique structure resulting from the optimization of each of them. 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 mass of the turret,
• 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 it (manual or automatic),
• the dimensions of the vehicle on which the turret is associated,
• the means of transport for the vehicle / turret assembly,
• contractual constraints imposed by the user,
• etc.

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

In other words, upstream, the basic element, the shell, also sees its architecture subjected to the same parameters, that is to say that it can only be used under very specific conditions. This is why the modularity of the turret is often reduced to its simplest expression in view of the uniqueness 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 solutions proposed are based on the fact that the turret shell is defined according to the specifications requested by the user without taking into account 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 hull is associated with a single project.

State of the art

The following documents have been identified in the prior art.

In the document US20040183322 , a tank equipped with a passenger compartment carried by a tracked traction means and an armed post placed on the roof of the passenger compartment such as the interior of the latter is subdivided into three regions: i) “front” in which the traction mechanisms and driver's seat are located, ii) “rear” at which the seats appear the crew and iii) “intermediate” adapted for different purposes depending on the design of the vehicle, in particular for the adaptation of a turret and / or at least one seat for the operators of the armed station 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 associating a chassis equipped with mobility means and at least one armored habitable cabin fixed to the chassis in a removable manner by securing means.

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

The document WO2013127654 discloses a turret for an armored vehicle comprising on the one hand a metallic, invariable and rigid structural unit having a central position in the turret and on the other hand at least one interchangeable module which can be dismantled by means of attachment.

The document FR2579946 discloses a multi-purpose tracked motor vehicle including a tracked hull. On the horizontal top of the chassis of the hull 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 mounting the interface on the chassis the shell only for mounting the element completing the architecture of the vehicle.

The document DE19720815 discloses a combat structure having various sausage 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 rotating frame adapted to be mounted on a platform, and comprising a removable cradle with a weapon mounted thereon.

The document DE3836718 discloses a turret characterized by a specific trunnion system making it possible to interchange a 105 mm caliber cannon and a 120 mm caliber cannon in a simple manner by modifying 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 some interest but less significant than those described above.

This approach can be likened to an automotive assembly line at which the shell 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 levels, etc.

Aims of the invention

The present invention aims to set up a standard and interchangeable architecture for the part commonly known as the turret shell, after all like a car chassis at which are grafted plethora of electrical, electronic elements and mechanical considered essential 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 large set of interface means making it possible to systematically or optionally graft at least a whole series of d '' specific interior (basket, etc.) and / or exterior equipment (weapons of different calibers, close observation system (s), etc.) so that the occupants of the turret, i.e. the commander and the gunner, are located at all times in a similar environment, in other words an environment which is independent of the number and nature of the modules and / or systems associated with the standard and interchangeable shell. The project is therefore based on a notion of "commonality" vis-à-vis the management of various equipment. The commonality rate is an English term used in the automotive field for designate the number of parts, sub-assemblies, and assemblies common to several vehicle models.

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

The document WO 2015/004569 A1 describes a turret comprising a hollow casing provided with a barrel, said casing comprising: a front part or shell, on which the barrel is mounted and which defines a front cavity, in which the barrel is partially housed and a rear portion or tail, which defines a rear cavity, in which is housed at least one projectile magazine or a mechanism for loading the projectiles into the breech of the barrel, said front part or shell and said rear part or tail being distinct from each other and being assembled mutually mechanically so that said cavities at least partially communicate with each other.

Main characteristic features 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 on, systematically (for example in the case of the barrel) or optionally (in the other cases of modules and / or systems), at least one or a combination appropriate of the structures described below corresponding to interchangeable and dismountable modules and / or systems:

• a cannon module comprising at least one caliber cannon between 20 mm and 130 mm, which covers the range of medium and large calibers,
• an ammunition storage module containing at least one carrying structure, the bustle, as well as an automatic or manual loading system,
• a basket intended to receive a crew (consisting of one to two men) and materials (screens, joysticks, seats, etc.) necessary for the latter to pilot the turret but also to ensure the shooting,
• a module having at least one secondary weapon related to a small-caliber coaxial machine gun between 5.56 mm and 15 mm,
• a sighting system,
• an additional shielding system (s),
• a missile launcher system (s),
• a grenade launcher system (s),
• a communication system by radio waves,
• 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 inside it.

From a practical and functional point of view, it should be noted that, in certain cases, the basket is not integrated into said standard and interchangeable shell. In this hypothesis, it is completely absent from the enclosure since the manipulations linked 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 basket level but inside the vehicle.

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

Thus, ultimately, the architecture of the turret is obtained by the implementation of modules and / or predefined interior and / or exterior systems grafted to the standard shell and interchangeable so that the various combinations of assembly of said modules and / or systems constitute a new modular turret meeting standard requirements. Thanks to the interchangeability and standardization of the hull, different variants of the turret will be offered.

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

An embodiment of the invention discloses a modular turret for an armored vehicle, comprising on the one hand an invariable and unique basic structural unit which can be interchangeable, called standard shell, equipped with interface means, and other part, a plurality of interchangeable and dismountable functional modules and / or systems, capable of being secured to the standard shell by specific and distinctive fixing means for the connection of each functional module to said standard 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 interfacing zone on the latter, said standard shell comprising the assembly of a plurality of plates of different shapes and dimensions giving the standard shell a geometric shape of fixed dimensions, said plates possibly having orifices and / or conn ectors for fixing said modules and / or interchangeable and removable functional systems.

• une tôle de base constituant la base de la coque standard sur toute la superficie de celle-ci, et percée en son centre pour délimiter la fixation d'un ring ;
• deux plaques de support de canon situées à l'avant de la coque standard, et disposées perpendiculairement par rapport à la tôle de base, chacune des plaques comprenant un orifice destiné à recevoir un module canon et/ou un module d'arme secondaire ;
• 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,
• une plaque d'interface reliant les tôles latérales à l'arrière de la coque standard perpendiculairement à la tôle de base, ladite plaque d'interface étant un moyen d'attache pour un bustle ;
• des tôles supérieures coopérant avec les plaques de support de canon, les tôles latérales, et la plaque d'interface pour refermer la coque standard ; ladite coque standard étant caractérisée en ce qu'elle comprend en outre :
• deux arches assurant la jonction entre l'avant et l'arrière de la coque standard, possédant une hauteur fixe et formant un canal rectiligne s'étendant des plaques de support de canon jusqu'à la plaque d'interface, de sorte que lesdites arches définissent à l'intérieur de la coque standard, trois zones invariables d'un point de vue structurel et fonctionnel, indépendamment du module canon retenu, à savoir, en regardant depuis l'avant du véhicule, respectivement une zone pour accueillir le tireur à droite, une zone pour accueillir le commandant à gauche, et une zone centrale destinée à recevoir l'arme principale, la position des arches définissant des plans fictifs, qui prolongés vers le bas par rapport à la tôle de base, font apparaître de manière similaire les trois zones précitées au niveau d'un panier monté optionnellement sur la coque standard ; et
• un capot, surplombant les arches, dont la forme et/ou la hauteur est (sont) dépendante(s) du recul engendré par le module canon retenu.

According to the invention, said plurality of plates comprises at least:

• a base plate constituting the base of the standard shell over the entire surface thereof, and pierced in its center to delimit the fixing of a ring;
• two gun support plates located at the front of the standard shell, and arranged perpendicular to the base plate, each of the plates comprising an orifice intended to receive a gun module and / or a secondary weapon module;
• side plates starting from the gun support plates following the base plate to finish at the rear of the standard hull,
• an interface plate connecting the side plates to the rear of the standard shell perpendicular to the base plate, said interface plate being a means of attachment for a bustle;
• upper sheets cooperating with the barrel support plates, the side plates, and the interface plate to close the standard shell; said standard shell being characterized in that it further comprises:
• two arches providing the junction between the front and the rear of the standard shell, having a fixed height and forming a rectilinear channel extending from the barrel support plates to the interface plate, so that said arches define inside the standard hull, three zones invariable from a structural and functional point of view, independently of the selected gun module, namely, by looking from the front of the vehicle, respectively an area to accommodate the shooter on the right , a zone to receive the commander on the left, and a central zone intended to receive the main weapon, the position of the arches defining fictitious planes, which extended downward relative to the base plate, reveal in a similar manner the three aforementioned zones at the level of a basket optionally mounted on the standard shell; and
• a cover, overhanging the arches, whose shape and / or height is (are) dependent (s) on the recoil generated by the retained gun module.

• 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 ;
• lesdites tôles latérales présentent un angle inférieur à 90° par rapport à la tôle de base sur la face avant de la coque standard, et sont soudées de manière perpendiculaire à la tôle de base sur les côtés latéraux ;
• le module canon est interfacé à la coque standard 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, soit conjointement avec le module canon entre les plaques de support de canon au niveau du masque associé à la coque standard 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, 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 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 :
  • ∘ en relation directe avec la coque standard 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 le bustle, la plaque d'interface épousant les tôle de base et latérales de préférence sur une largeur de quelques millimètres ;
  • ∘ en relation indirecte avec la coque standard 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 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 un module canon de gros calibre et
  • transversale à l'axe de celui-ci pour un 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 sans modifier les aspects structurels et fonctionnels de la coque standard 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 une forme géométrique de dimensions fixes est un assemblage mécano-soudé alors que le capot, optionnel, est attaché à ladite coque standard 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, cette association, au niveau de la géométrie de la coque standard 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 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 also comprises, systematically or optionally, at least one of the following characteristics or an appropriate combination of several of them:

• the interchangeable and dismountable functional modules and / or systems are selected from the group consisting of a canon module in a determined range of calibers, ranging from medium to large calibers, a small caliber secondary weapon module, a basket, a system aiming device, an ammunition or bustle storage module, an over-armor kit, a missile launcher system (s), a grenade launcher system (s), a close observation system, a radio wave communication system , weather station, hatches, episcopes, roof weapon system, laser beam detection system, navigation system, system electrical control, power system, shielded boresight system, etc .;
• the caliber of the gun module is between 20 mm and 130 mm;
• said side sheets have an angle of less than 90 ° relative to the base sheet on the front face of the standard shell, and are welded perpendicular to the base sheet on the side sides;
• the barrel module is interfaced to the standard shell between the barrel support plates, either by means of a support, mask and bearings, or by means of trunnions, ball joints and flanges, the method of fixing being designed to be independent of the caliber of the gun module;
• the secondary weapon module, the caliber of which is preferably between 5.56 mm and 15 mm, is interfaced with the standard shell, either jointly with the gun module between the gun support plates at the level of the mask associated with the standard shell so that the barrel module and the secondary weapon module are both fixed on the mask linked to the standard shell, or outside said barrel support plates so that the secondary weapon module is integrated in outside said mask, or again both between and outside the gun support plates, the fixing methods being designed to be all independent of the caliber of the gun 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 in such a way that a coaxiality appears between the two weapons;
• the ammunition or bustle storage module is interfaced to the standard shell at the rear of the latter via the interface plate serving as the attachment means for the bustle, the latter being respectively:
  • ∘ in direct relation with the standard shell in the case of the medium caliber gun module, so that an ammunition rack of the modular turret simultaneously overlaps the standard shell and the bustle, the interface plate matching the base plates and preferably on a width of a few millimeters;
  • ∘ in indirect relation with the standard shell 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) in order to increase the ballistic degree, iii) in order to increase the protection in the event of an explosion of ammunition, iv) etc, similar to a complete junction, the interface plate closing the entire rear surface of the standard shell by connecting the base and side plates ,
  the bustle containing the ammunition intended to be routed to the canon module automatically respectively so
  • longitudinal along the axis thereof for a large caliber gun module and
  • transverse to the axis thereof for a medium caliber gun module,
• the plurality of interchangeable and removable functional modules and / or systems is specifically grafted to the same locations on the standard shell without modifying the structural and functional aspects of the standard shell and independently with respect to the caliber of the gun module;
• the unused interfacing zones are covered with closed blank plates, possibly shielded by an additional shielding kit;
• the assembly of the plurality of plates of different shapes and dimensions giving the standard shell a geometric shape of fixed dimensions is a mechanically welded assembly while the cover, optional, is attached to said standard shell with screws;
• the plurality of interchangeable and removable functional modules and / or systems, whatever their specificity, is grafted in the same places of the standard shell, this association, at the level of the geometry of the standard shell as well as the fixing methods, being independent the number and nature of said modules and / or systems, whether internal and / or external, such 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 all times while the configuration of the modular turret is not fixed in time but can be evolving in time, for example according to updates as well as user requests, c '' is to say that the standard hull or the modular turret is articulated on a commonality of the management of the various above-mentioned modules and / or systems.

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.

Examples of embodiments according to the invention are described below in more detail with the aid of the appended Figures.

• The Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a standard and interchangeable shell of modular turret according to the present invention with its various armor plates.
• The Figure 2 shows a plan view of the standard and interchangeable shell shown in Figure 1 .
• The Figure 3 shows an exploded view of the fastening system of the large caliber and medium caliber gun 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 which is the subject of the invention is the shell.

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

These plates, assembled by welding, give a precise geometric shape to the standard shell defined by specific dimensions which will later generate its modularity, this shape taking into account several distinct characteristics, namely rigidity, mass, ergonomics, etc. , or, in some cases, aerodynamics, aesthetics, etc. It appears that this assembly is independent of the number and of the nature of the modules and / or interior and / or exterior systems grafted 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 shell may undergo certain modifications depending on user requests. This is why, thanks to this notion of commonality / standardization, the time of reactivity vis-à-vis possible adaptations is very short in order to quickly and effectively satisfy the requirements of the user.

On the other hand, over the entire surface of the standard shell, there appear areas of interfacing with said modules and / or systems via a set of appropriate connections and securing means. These areas are located in strategic places defined both by the user and by the mission's challenges. If these areas are not used, they can of course be covered by blank plates in order to optimize the specific characteristics described above as well as the interior and exterior safety features of the standard shell (the overall level of shielding is described below) .

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

As regards the specific dimensions of each plate, they are not considered to be a limiting and binding element of the invention. Indeed, certain variations may appear (that is to say for example an increase in these) but will in no way modify the standardization of the hull. They will potentially encourage an increase in the available interior space in order to add 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 mainly shown by Figures 1 , 2 and 3 , among the plates defined above associated with the standard shell 1, the following elements appear:

• base plate 2 : plate constituting the base of the standard shell 1 over the entire surface of the shell 1 and pierced in its center to delimit the fixing of the ring 3. This constitutes the interface between the vehicle and the standard shell 1. The diameter of ring 3 is variable depending on the type of vehicle, in other words it varies between 1200 mm and 2200 mm;
• gun support plates 4: two structured components arranged perpendicularly 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 weapon module 6 of small caliber;
• side plates 7 : plates starting from the barrel support plates 4 following the base plate 2 to finish behind the standard shell 1. On the front face of the standard shell 1, they have an angle of less than 90 ° relative to the base plate 2 (it depends on the modules and / or associated external systems) while laterally, they are generally and preferably welded perpendicular 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 being the structure acting among other things as an ammunition box but also which can fulfill other functions with a few adjustments. For the medium-caliber gun module 5 , the interface plate 8 follows the base 2 and side 7 sheets over a width of a few millimeters so that the bustle 9 is in direct relation with the standard shell 1, which allows the ammunition rack (or even any ammunition storage and routing device) 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 a “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 ensuring the junction between the front and the rear of the standard shell 1. They appear in the form of a rectilinear channel i) coming from the gun support plates 4 up to the interface plate 8 in order to stiffen the standard shell 1, and ii) characterized by a certain fixed height. So, as the 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 shell 1, 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. These three specific zones appear so similar to the level of the basket 12 located inside the modular turret 13. During the firing, certain components of the cannon module 5 undergo a recoil. This is significant for large caliber ammunition and insignificant in the case of medium caliber ammunition. To integrate this physical phenomenon, a cover 14 has been placed , overhanging the arches 11, the shape of which, and therefore the height, is therefore dependent on the recoil generated by certain components of the gun module 5. This is why, in in addition to its shielding-related function, 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 with respect to a whole series of interior and / or exterior modules and / or systems. These are integrated / grafted onto the standard shell 1 according to appropriate fixing methods and according to criteria defined both by the user and by the challenges of the mission. Ultimately, 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 takes place at the level of the front face of said standard and interchangeable shell 1, and conditions all the reflection linked to the interchangeability and to the 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 5 module is:

• characterized by sizes between 20 mm and 130 mm, in other words sizes covering the range of medium and large sizes. The choice of the caliber of the cannon module 5 depends on the requirements of the user as well as the missions envisaged;
• integral with the standard and interchangeable shell 1 by a specific interfacing system, the interfacing system taking up the specific features of the interfaces both of the standard and interchangeable shell 1 and of 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 fixing system ( Figure 3 ), two approaches have been favored in the present invention:

• the first way operates via a support 15 (which can be optional), the mask 16 and bearings 17 ;
• the second track favors the use of journals 18, ball joints 19 as well as flanges 20.

In one case as in the other, it is possible to integrate or 5 medium-caliber gun unit or barrel 5 heavy gauge module, which means that the method of attachment is optimized for 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 fixing parts very easily interchangeable on the standard and interchangeable shell 1.

Thus, the standard and interchangeable shell 1 is not dedicated beforehand to a cannon module 5 of defined caliber but has been designed and geometrically optimized for a range of calibers of the cannon module 5 inserted.

The standardization / neutrality of the standard and interchangeable hull 1 also remains valid with regard to vehicles, in other words all the geometric and functional parameters have been optimized whatever the vehicle on which said standard and interchangeable hull 1 is based.

In addition, the optimization of the geometry of the standard and interchangeable shell 1 took account of the movement of certain components of the barrel module 5, said movement relative to a horizontal axis parallel to the base plate 2 having both an elevation and 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 gun module 5 of large caliber while the values are respectively + 60 ° and -10 ° for the medium-caliber gun module 5 . Given these geometric and numerical characteristics, the subject of the invention highlights the compromise between the latter according to the contractual requirements. It should be noted that these angular values can fluctuate more with a few modifications in terms of the integration of the modules and / or interior systems.

In view of the geometric characteristics described above as well as taking into account the caliber of the gun module 5, it appears that, at the level of 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 cannon module 5 is not identical depending on the caliber studied: i) for the large caliber cannon module 5 , the latter 5 is centered relative to the standard and interchangeable shell 1, while ii) for the medium-caliber cannon module 5 , the latter 5 can be slightly off-center, for example, to facilitate transverse feeding of the ammunition.

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

Like the fixing methods 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 preferably been 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 the following: i) the distance between the two gun support plates 4 is such that it is possible to jointly insert the gun module 5 as well that the secondary weapon module 6, which means that they are fixed directly to 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 outside 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 direction as those defined by the gun module 5. For information, it is to note that the secondary weapon module 6 can also be added to another location on the standard and interchangeable shell 1, location which is not necessarily close to the gun 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 this 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 external and / or internal modules and / or systems are interchangeable both for the means and for the large calibers of the cannon module 5 so that the members of the crew can be confronted at all times with a similar working environment in terms of ergonomics, functionality, 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 :
   • ∘ 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 ;
   • ∘ 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 :
   • ∘ 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,
   • ∘ 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

Among the various modules and / or systems envisaged are included, systematically or optionally, 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 metallic structure, the bustle 9, comprising, depending on the caliber of the cannon 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 specific securing means by simultaneously integrating sealing means. According to the invention, a screw / nut approach associated with sealing means has been adopted. The size of the bustle 9 is a function of the caliber of the cannon module 5 and the number of on-board munitions.
   In the case of ammunition from:
   • ∘ large caliber, these are only stored in the bustle 9, with a view to possibly mounting a "firewall" between it 9 and the standard and interchangeable shell 1 ;
   • ∘ of medium caliber, they appear localized both in the standard and interchangeable shell 1 and the bustle 9 continuously without "firewall".
   With regard to the supply of ammunition to the canon 5 module and, ultimately, the ejection of the latter (called "main munitions"), this is done from the rear (bustle 9 ) towards the front (canon module 5 ) of the standard and interchangeable shell 1 according to two distinct approaches:
   • ∘ for large caliber ammunition,
     • ▪ they are routed automatically or manually longitudinally, along the same axis as that defined by the gun module 5 ;
     • ▪ after firing, only the casings are ejected downwards and collected manually by the internal operator,
   • ∘ for medium caliber ammunition,
     • ▪ they are brought along a transverse path through a series of specific devices (ratchet boxes, conveyors and hoses) located at the side sheet 7 next to the commander in this case, which allows the hoses to pass through the left barrel support plate 4 in order to release the ammunition in the barrel module 5 ;
     • ▪ the casings, after firing, are automatically ejected either from the front of the mask 16 through an orifice located at the height of the barrel module 5, or laterally to the latter 16, while the links are evacuated by the plate gun support 4 opposite (right) through specific conduits

• 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. For the secondary weapon module 6, the ammunition (called “secondary ammunition”) is stored in a box inside the standard and interchangeable shell 1 and is conveyed to said secondary weapon module 6 only by the action of this 6. The operating mode is based on the following approaches:

• a system based on gas recovery;
• a system based on the use of the recoil of the secondary weapon module 6 or
• a motorization of said secondary weapon 6.

It should be noted that in certain cases, this supply takes place by passing through hoses in order to reach the barrel support plate 4.

• 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
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

The ejection of these secondary munitions follows two specific approaches:

• for a large caliber gun module 5 , the secondary ammunition is ejected and recovered in a recuperator;
• for a medium caliber cannon module 5 , the secondary ammunition is ejected either through specific conduits located between the two cannon support plates 4 so that they automatically end their course outside the modular turret 13 to 1 'Like the links of the main ammunition, either inside the vehicle under the base plate 2 inducing a more significant intrusion, and therefore a greater bulk. Upstream of these two operations (routing and ejection), the (re) loading of ammunition appears. Regardless of the caliber of the latter, it operates either from the exterior of the modular turret 13, or from the interior thereof 13 following its optimized and structured arrangements and architectures. In both cases, it is the set of conditions (threats from the enemy, terrain relief, etc.) in which the crew members are who preferentially condition an approach
  • ii) the area intended for the crew, alias the basket 12, which is fixed to the standard and interchangeable hull 1 at the level of the base plate 2 by means of attachment.
    This structure, generally metallic, presents the command and firing posts for, respectively, the commander and the gunner, posts equipped with the various electronic and / or mechanical devices for controlling the modular turret 13 (HMI, Human Machine Interface) necessary and essential to the associated actions.
    In addition, it is characterized by a third zone at the level of which certain components of the gun module 5 are inserted exclusively during firing, which implies that it is totally secure there for the members of the crew.
    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 user's requests.
    In certain cases, the modular turret 13 is characterized by an absence of the basket 12, which results in control from inside the vehicle itself.
  • iii) the sighting system 21 which is inserted (in) directly on the upper sheet (s) 10. An example configuration is shown in the Figure 5 . The means of attachment depend on the specificities of each aiming system present on the market.
  • iv) with regard to the aspect linked to the shielding, said standard and interchangeable shell 1 consists of an armored external envelope subdivided into specific geometrically speaking zones defined either by the location of the modules and / or external systems, or by blank spaces that can potentially be used later to attach one (or more) module (s) and / or external system (s).
    Certain areas may be subject to a different armor rating since they contain / protect a more vulnerable environment such as occupants, ammunition, etc. Thus, the shielding results in the fact that an additional armor 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 whole of the standard and interchangeable hull 1 but meets the internal constraints (person and / or equipment) but also 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 and interchangeable shell 1. However, depending on the super-armor desired by the user, not all of them are systematically used. If the said shielding must change over time, the unused connectors can be functional again with certain adaptations. An example configuration is shown in Figure 5 .
  • v) a system of missile launcher (s), grenade launcher (s), close observation, communication by radio waves, weather station, hatches, episcopes, a roof weapon system, a laser beam detection system, navigation system, electrical control system, power system, shielded boresight system, 23, etc. connected to the standard shell and interchangeable 1 by a support system and a set of screws and nuts. The attachment is effected either at the side plates 7 or at the bustle 9, etc.
    An example configuration is shown in Figure 5 .

Reference symbols

1

shell

2

base sheet

3

ring

4

gun support plate

5

canon module

6

secondary weapon

7

side plate

8

interface plate

9

bustle

10

upper sheet

11

ark

12

basket

13

turret

14

hood

15

support

16

mask

17

rolling

18

trunnion

19

patella

20

flaccid

21

sighting system

22

armor plating

23

hatch, episcope, ...

Claims (12)

1. A modular turret (13) for an armored vehicle, on the one hand comprising an invariable and unique basic structural unit able to be interchangeable, called standard shell (1), equipped with interface means, and on the other hand, a plurality of interchangeable and removable functional modules and/or systems (5, 6, 8, 12, 21, 22, 23), able to be secured to the standard shell (1) by specific fastening means distinctive from the connection of each functional module to said standard shell (1), the interface means thus being designed to allow the assembly of the set of different modules and/or systems of the same functional type on said standard shell (1) at an interfacing zone on the latter (1), said standard shell (1) comprising the assembly of a plurality of plates with different shapes and sizes giving the standard shell (1) a geometric shape with fixed dimensions, said plates being able to have orifices and/or connectors for fastening said interchangeable and removable functional modules and/or systems, said plurality of plates at least comprising :

   - a base metal sheet (2) making up the base of the standard shell (1) over the entire surface area thereof (1), and the center of which is pierced to define the fastening of a ring (3) ;

   - two cannon support plates (4) situated in front of the standard shell (1), and positioned perpendicular relative to the base metal sheet (2), each of the plates (4) comprising an orifice intended to receive a cannon module (5) and/or secondary weapon module (6) ;

   - side metal sheets (7) starting from the cannon support plates (4), following the base metal sheet (2) to end behind the standard shell (1) ;

   - an interface plate (8) connecting the side metal sheet (7) to the rear of the standard shell (1) perpendicular to the base metal sheet (2), said interface plate (8) being a fastening means for a bustle rack (9) ;

   - upper metal sheets (10) cooperating with the cannon support plates (4), the side metal sheets (7) and the interface plate (8) to close the standard shell (1) ;

   said standard shell (1) being characterized in that it further comprises :

   - two arches (11) providing the junction between the front and rear of the standard shell (1), having a fixed height and forming a rectilinear channel extending from the cannon support plates (4) to the interface plate (8), so that said arches (11) define, inside the standard shell (1), three invariable zones from a functional and structural perspective, independently of the actual cannon module (5), i.e., a zone for hosting the gunner on the right, looking from the front of the vehicle, a zone for hosting the commander on the left, and a central zone intended to receive the primary weapon (5), the position of the arches (11) defining fictive plans which, once extended downward with respect to the base metal sheet (2), make similarly appear the three aforementioned zones at the level of a basket (12) optionally mounted on the standard shell (1); and

   - a cover (14), over the arches (11), the shape and/or height of which depending on the recoil created by the cannon module (5).
2. The modular turret (13) according to claim 1, characterized in that the interchangeable and removable functional modules and/or systems are selected, systematically or optionally, from the group made up of a cannon module (5) in a specific caliber range, for medium to large calibers, a small-caliber secondary weapon module (6), a basket (12), an aiming system (21), and ammunition storage or bustle rack module (9), an over-shield kit (22), a missile launcher system, a grenade launcher system, 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 electronic control system, a power system and/or an under-shield "boresight" system (23).
3. The modular turret (13) according to claim 2, characterized in that the caliber of the cannon module (5) is comprised between 20 and 130 mm.
4. The modular turret (13) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that said side metal sheets (7) have an angle smaller than 90° relative to the base metal sheet (2) on the front face of the standard shell (1), and are welded perpendicular to the base metal sheet (2) on the lateral sides.
5. The modular turret (13) according to claim 1, characterized in that the cannon module (5) is interfaced with the standard shell (1) between the cannon support plates (4), either via a support (15), mask (16) and rolling bearings (17), or via journals (18), ball joints (19) and flanges (20), the fastening method being designed to be independent of the caliber of the cannon module (5).
6. The modular turret (13) according to claim 1, characterized in that the secondary weapon module (6) is interfaced with the standard shell (1), either jointly with the cannon module (5) between the cannon support plates (4) at the mask (16) such that the cannon module (5) and the secondary weapon module (6) are both fastened on the mask (20), or outside said cannon support plates (4) such that the secondary weapon module (6) is integrated outside said mask (16), or both at once between and outside the cannon support plates (4), the fastening methods being designed all to be independent from the caliber of the cannon module (5).
7. The 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 sense as the main axis of the cannon module (5), in other words, such that a coaxiality appears between the two weapons (5, 6).
8. The modular turret (13) according to claim 1, characterized in that the ammunition storage or bustle rack module (9) is interfaced with the standard shell (1) behind the latter (1) via the interface plate (8) acting as bustle rack (9) fastening means, the latter respectively being:

   - in direct relation with the standard shell (1) in the case of the medium-caliber cannon module (5), such that an ammunition rack of the modular turret (13) simultaneously straddles the standard and interchangeable shell (1) and the bustle rack (9), the interface plate (8) marrying the base (2) and side (7) metal sheets preferably over a width of several millimeters;

   - in indirect relation with the standard shell (1) in the case of the large-caliber cannon module (5), following the presence of a firewall, i.e., an additional plate, comparable to a complete junction, the interface plate (8) closing the entire rear surface area of the standard shell (1) by connecting the base (2) and side (7) metal sheets,

   the bustle rack (9) containing the ammunition intended to be conveyed to the cannon module (5) automatically, respectively:

   - longitudinally along the axis thereof (5) by the large-caliber cannon module (5), and

   - transversely to the axis thereof (5) by the medium-caliber cannon module (5),
9. The modular turret (13) according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of interchangeable and removable functional modules and/or systems (5, 6, 9, 12, 21, 22, 23) is specifically attached to the same locations of the standard shell (1) without modifying the structural and functional aspects of the standard and interchangeable shell (1) and independently of the caliber of the cannon module (5).
10. The modular turret (13) according to claim 1, characterized in that the unused interfacing zones are covered with closed blank plates, optionally armored using an additional armoring kit (22).
11. The modular turret (13) according to claim 1, characterized in that the assembly of the plurality of plates with different shapes and sizes giving the standard shell (1) a geometric shape with fixed dimensions is a mechanically welded assembly.
12. The modular turret (13) according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of interchangeable and removable functional modules and/or systems (5, 6, 9, 12, 21, 22, 23), irrespective of their specificity, is attached to the same locations of the standard shell (1), this association, in terms of the geometry of the standard shell (1) as well as the fastening methods, being independent of the number and nature of said modules and/or systems, whether they are interior and/or exterior, such that the immediate control environment such as HMI, seats, etc. in which the crew of the modular turret (13) is found, as well as the position of said crew, made up of no more than two people, i.e., a commander and a gunner, remain identical at all times while the configuration of the modular turret (13) is not frozen in time, but can evolve over time, for example depending on updates as well as requests from the user, i.e., the standard shell (1) or the modular turret (13) is based on a commonality of the management of the various aforementioned modules and/or systems.

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