Lethal threat protection system for a vehicle and method

Abstract

A field configurable vehicle armoring system and associated method allow a user to retrofit and reconfigure a combination of armor components in response to a perceived threat change and using original equipment manufacture fasteners and holes. The system includes pillar armor attachable after an original equipment manufacture door and hinge are removed. Fasteners extend through the hinge of the armored door, the pillar armor and an original equipment manufacture pillar using holes other than the original equipment manufacture holes. Rocker panel and underbody armor is further provided, along with a ballistic resistant windscreen and rear wall armor. Where desired, system armor includes a composite plate comprising a strike face that is constructed from softer metallic material than an inner metallic sheet.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 562,764, filed Apr. 16, 2004 by David J. Wolf et al. entitled “Field Retrofittable and Reconfigurable Lethal Threat Protection System for a Vehicle and Method,” which application is incorporated by reference herein.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention relates generally to armoring, and more particularly to an armoring system for military land vehicles and other types of vehicles and structures.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Military operations require many different types of land vehicles. One type of military land vehicle is a high speed, high mobility, reconnaissance vehicle, for example, a High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (“HMMWV”). All types of military land vehicles may encounter various types of lethal threats, for example, ballistic threats, explosive threats, etc. Ballistic threats are presented by bullets and other projectiles...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a vehicle armoring system that allows users to retrofit and reconfigure the components of the system in response to changing perceived threats. The system includes pillar armor, an armored door, and a reinforcing plates that can be attached to the vehicle's forward and rear wheel wells. The armor can be quickly and cost-effectively removed and reinstallation is simple. The system also includes a blast resistant shield that can absorb energy and pressure waves from lethal threats. The armor is attached to the vehicle using fasteners that do not interfere with the OEM holes, making it easy to install and remove. Overall, the invention allows users to tailor the armoring system to their needs and quickly return the vehicle to unarmored use."

Problems solved by technology

Further, the user is able to cost effectively return the vehicle to unarmored use.

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