armor

Abstract

Protective case with a protective device (1) for protecting a vehicle against ballistic fire, in particular against fire with kinetic energy ammunition, comprising at least one first armor plate (2.1) and at least one second armor plate (2.2), wherein the first and the second armor plate (2.1, 2.2) are arranged at an angle to each other, wherein two retaining elements (11) are provided between which the armor plates (2.1, 2.2) extend, wherein the armor plates (2.1, 2.2) each have a connecting contour (3) via which the first armor plate (2.1) and the second armor plate (2.2) are positively interlocked and connected to each other, wherein the armor plates (2.1, 2.2) are materially bonded to the retaining elements (11), wherein the armor plates (2.1, 2.2) are arranged in a zigzag pattern and wherein the armor plates (2.1, 2.2)2) are connected to each other on the side facing the threat via an interlocking mechanism (V) and on the side facing away from the threat via a plug connection (S).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a protective casing with a protective device for protecting a vehicle against ballistic fire, in particular against fire with kinetic energy ammunition, comprising at least one first armor plate and at least one second armor plate, wherein the first and the second armor plates are arranged at an angle to each other. A further component is a vehicle with a protective casing.

[0002] Military vehicles, in particular, are often deployed in war zones and are therefore frequently exposed to the risk of ballistic fire. While these vehicles typically feature armored walls for protection, which offer a reasonable degree of protection against various incoming projectiles, there are also specialized armor-piercing munitions against which the vehicle's walls cannot provide sufficient protection. In particular, armor-piercing kinetic energy projectiles, such as tungsten carbide-tipped rounds, which possess very high kinetic energy, can penetrate even thicker armor plating.

[0003] The penetrating power of such a kinetic energy projectile is generally greatest when it strikes the vehicle wall perpendicularly. If it hits at an angle, the penetrating power is sometimes significantly reduced. This is because, from the projectile's perspective, the angle increases the effective wall thickness that it has to penetrate, which has a positive effect on the protective effect. Furthermore, when striking at an angle, the projectile may also be deflected or break apart to some extent, which also improves the protective effect.

[0004] Based on this, it is known to provide protective devices, particularly in front of the side walls of military vehicles, which have at least one first and at least one second armor plate arranged at an angle to each other. This angled arrangement ensures that the projectiles always strike either one of the armor plates or the vehicle wall behind it at an oblique angle.

[0005] To connect the first and second armor plates at the correct angle, they can be welded together. While this results in a reliable and stable connection between the two plates, the heat generated during welding can cause structural changes in the plates. Such structural changes can negatively affect the strength of the plates and thus the overall protective effect of the armored device.

[0006] In addition, there are also protective elements known that feature bent armor plates, so that in these, the first and second armor plates are essentially components of a larger, bent armor plate. However, bending an armor plate can also lead to structural changes that can negatively affect the plate's strength. Furthermore, such deformations are only possible if the armor plate does not exceed a certain thickness. Additionally, bending or welding can create surfaces that are not perpendicular to the direction of threat and therefore offer only limited protection.

[0007] An example of a corresponding protective device is shown, for example, in EP 0 209 221 A1.

[0008] US Patent 2007 / 0006542 A1 discloses a building block that can be assembled into structures without the need for special end or corner pieces. The building block has top and bottom surfaces, each containing a matching protrusion and groove for stacking the blocks. Two end faces and two side faces form a closed volume. One side face and one end face have at least one interlocking male part. The other side face and end face have at least one matching groove into which the male part fits to connect the building blocks.

[0009] US2010 / 0206158 A1 relates to a tank arrangement (10). The tank arrangement (10) comprises a plurality of disturbance elements (12) arranged side by side, at least partially spaced apart from one another, and offset at an angle relative to the surface. Each disturbance element has an arc-shaped cross-section and contains three disturbance bodies (14) positioned side by side, such that the disturbance element has the shape of a semi-parabolic curve.

[0010] DE 100 28 753 A1 relates to a large-area protective wall element for increasing the ballistic protection of buildings, transport containers, and vehicles. Two wall sections made of ballistic-resistant material are attached to each other at a distance. The wall sections are designed as armored sheet metal parts, each of which is unwound or curved in strips such that no parallel areas of the wall sections are opposite or adjacent to each other.

[0011] DE 40 05 904 A1 discloses a non-load-bearing composite component serving as armor for stationary and mobile objects, consisting of ceramics fixed to a carrier material, and a method for manufacturing such a composite component, wherein mobile objects include both land and water vehicles as well as aircraft.

[0012] The invention aims to provide a protective cassette that is characterized by an improved protective effect.

[0013] This problem is solved by a protective case with the features of claim 1.

[0014] The plates can be reliably joined together via the interlocking contours without compromising their strength. This is because the form-fit connection, unlike a welded joint, for example, does not require high temperatures that could negatively affect strength. Therefore, this non-metallic connection does not negatively impact the strength of the individual plates and thus the protective function of the guard.

[0015] With regard to assembly, a corresponding positive-locking connection also offers advantages, as less time is required for the positive-locking connection than if the plates had to be welded together alternatively or additionally.

[0016] Regarding the connection of the armor plates, it has proven advantageous if the first and second armor plates are detachably connected. A detachable connection allows the armor plates to be mounted very easily and with minimal tools.

[0017] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous to arrange the first and second armor plates perpendicular to each other. Such a perpendicular arrangement strikes a good balance between the number of armor plates required to protect, for example, an entire vehicle wall, and the angle of impact of incoming projectiles. While a smaller angle between the first and second armor plates can result in a smaller average firing angle and thus a higher overall level of protection, it also necessitates more armor plates to protect the vehicle wall. Additionally, a perpendicular arrangement allows for simpler and more cost-effective manufacturing of the connecting profiles.

[0018] It has also proven advantageous to have several first and several second armor plates. The first and second armor plates can be arranged alternately next to or on top of each other, so that the entire vehicle wall can be protected.

[0019] In this context, it has also proven advantageous if at least two first armor plates are parallel to each other. Furthermore, two second armor plates can also be parallel to each other. The first and second armor plates can thus be arranged alternately, so that, apart from the edges of the protective device, each first armor plate is connected to two second armor plates and each second armor plate to two first armor plates. The first and second armor plates can be arranged alternately one above the other, so that, apart from the upper and lower edges of the protective device, a second armor plate is connected to each first armor plate and a first armor plate to each second armor plate. This allows the entire side of a military vehicle to be reliably protected. It is advantageous for all first and all second armor plates to be parallel to each other.

[0020] According to the invention, the armor plates are arranged in a zigzag pattern. This design ensures uniform protection of the vehicle across the entire vehicle wall covered by the protective device. The angles between the armor plates can be identical, which is also advantageous for mounting the armor plates. The edges of the zigzag arrangement can extend horizontally.

[0021] Regarding the connection contours, it has proven advantageous for the first and second armor plates to interlock along their connecting contours. Such interlocking allows the armor plates to brace against each other upon impact, thus distributing the forces across a single plate. This also provides protection against multi-hit fire. Furthermore, this interlocking design offers sufficient stability, eliminating the need for additional bonding of the armor plates, such as welding, soldering, or adhesive bonding. However, in addition to the positive-locking connection, a material-bonded connection, such as welding, soldering, or adhesive bonding, can further strengthen the cohesion of the plates.However, such an additional material-bonded connection complicates the assembly of the protective device and is generally not necessary.

[0022] Regarding the connection design, it has proven advantageous for the first armor plate to be designed so that it can be plugged into the second. This connection allows the forces exerted on one armor plate by a projectile impact to be reliably transferred to one or more other armor plates. Practical experience has also shown that a plug-in connection can transmit higher forces than a splined connection. Although a plug-in connection is more complex to design than a splined connection, it is beneficial for stability if at least some of the armor plates are connected via a plug-in connection. It is therefore advantageous if some armor plates are splined together and others are plugged into each other, i.e., connected via a plug-in connection.The teeth and plug connections can alternate, so that one armor plate can be toothed with another armor plate and can also be connected to another armor plate via a plug connection.

[0023] According to the invention, the armor plates are further provided that they are connected to each other via interlocking teeth on the side facing the threat and via a plug connection on the side facing away from the threat. This design has proven advantageous because the risk of the connection becoming dislodged upon impact with projectiles is greater on the side facing away from the threat, and therefore a more stable connection of the armor plates is advantageous on this side. From the perspective of an incoming projectile, the armor plates are interlocked at the front and plugged into each other at the rear. Furthermore, the armor plates can also be connected to each other via plug connections on both sides. In this case, the armor plates can each have a first connection contour and a second connection contour.

[0024] Regarding the design of the armor plates, it has proven advantageous for them to be rectangular and to have two opposing short and two opposing long end sections. The armor plates can be connected to each other at the long end sections. The connecting edges can extend parallel to the vehicle wall and in a horizontal direction, so that the armor plates are arranged one above the other.

[0025] To connect the first armor plate to the second armor plate, it has proven advantageous if at least one end region, preferably the opposite end regions, of the first armor plate are designed as the first connecting contours. The longer, opposite end regions can be designed as the first connecting contours. This design allows the armor plates to be connected to each other along their longitudinal sides, ensuring a reliable connection.

[0026] Regarding the initial connection contours, it has proven advantageous for them to feature alternating connecting projections and recesses. This alternating arrangement of projections and recesses creates a tooth-like contour that ensures a reliable connection between the armor plates. From a manufacturing perspective, the recesses can be incorporated into the corresponding end areas of the armor plate, for example, by milling, so that the connecting projections between the recesses then automatically result. The width of the connecting projections or recesses, i.e., their extent in the plate direction and perpendicular to the plate normal, can correspond to the height of the armor plate.This ensures that two armor plates, each with a suitably designed first connection contour, can be joined without any overhang. The connecting projections and recesses can be rectangular, with their flanks extending in the direction of the plates. This allows not only for simple manufacturing but also for reliable interlocking and force transmission, even in the longitudinal direction of the plates. In an alternative embodiment, the connecting projections and recesses can also be serrated, triangular, or trapezoidal. In this embodiment, the corresponding flanks do not extend in the direction of the plates.

[0027] When joining two armor plates, each with its own connecting contours, it has proven advantageous for the connecting projections of one armor plate to engage with the connecting recesses of the other armor plate, and vice versa. In this way, the connecting projections and recesses interlock reciprocally. This design ensures a reliable interlocking of the two armor plates.

[0028] The width of the first connection contour, i.e., the extent of the connection projections and recesses in the plate direction, can correspond to the height of the armor plate. This ensures that no protrusion occurs when armor plates are connected via a single first connection contour.

[0029] With regard to the second armor plate(s), it has proven advantageous for each to have a second connecting contour, which includes, in particular, several insertion openings. Another armor plate can be inserted into the second armor plate via these insertion openings, thus connecting the two armor plates. The insertion openings can be recesses extending in the normal directions of the plates. Alternatively, the insertion openings can be material-enclosed recesses that can be created in the respective armor plate, for example, using a drill. The insertion openings can be cylindrical; however, in practice, rectangular or cuboid recesses have proven advantageous. The insertion openings can be arranged in a line and have a certain distance from the edge of the plate.It is advantageous if the corresponding edge distance of the insertion openings is within the range of one plate thickness. The first armor plate(s) can also have second connection contours. Therefore, the first armor plates can be inserted into the second armor plates at one end, and vice versa.

[0030] Due to the edge spacing of the insertion holes, the second armor plate can protrude slightly beyond the first. This protrusion allows the second armor plate to brace itself against the vehicle wall, thus enabling the wall to stabilize the plates. The first armor plate then does not need to brace directly against the vehicle wall; instead, the plug-in connection allows forces to be reliably transferred from the first armor plate to the second and then to the vehicle wall.

[0031] The first and second connection contours can represent sub-elements of the connection contour and thus characterize it more precisely. Each armor plate can have two connection contours at its opposite end regions.

[0032] Regarding the connection, it has proven advantageous if the connecting projections of one armor plate, particularly the first, can be inserted into the corresponding slots of another armor plate, particularly the second. This allows the armor plates to be connected via a corresponding plug-in connection, ensuring a reliable hold even under fire. Furthermore, the plug-in connection allows the armor plates to deform under fire, and relatively large deformations can be accommodated without the plates separating or the connecting projections popping out of their slots.

[0033] Regarding the design of the second armor plate, it has proven advantageous for it to have a first connecting contour at the end region opposite the second connecting contour. In contrast to the first armor plate, which can have a first connecting contour at both opposite end regions, the second armor plate can thus have a first connecting contour at one end region and a second connecting contour at the opposite end region.

[0034] The first connecting contour can be connected to a second connecting contour either via a toothed connection or via a plug-in connection. Therefore, the first armor plates and the second armor plates can be connected to each other via either a toothed connection or a plug-in connection.

[0035] The alternating arrangement of the first and second armor plates allows for alternating connection types: interlocking and plug-in. Thus, a second armor plate can be connected to the end of a first armor plate via interlocking, and the first armor plate can be connected to another second armor plate at its opposite end via a plug-in connection.

[0036] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous for both the first and second armor plates to have a first and a second connection contour. This allows a first armor plate to be inserted into a second armor plate, and vice versa. In this way, the armor plates can be connected exclusively via plug-in connections. With this design, the first and second armor plates can be identical. The armor plates can then have an overhang at both opposite ends. A combination of different connection types is also possible.

[0037] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous if the second connection contour is located on the side of the protective device facing away from the threat and the first connection contour is located on the side of the protective device facing the threat.

[0038] In an alternative embodiment, the second armor plate can have a first connecting contour at both opposite ends. In this embodiment, the first and second armor plates are essentially identical and are connected to each other solely by interlocking teeth. Therefore, the second armor plates do not require a second connecting contour or insertion slots in this embodiment. This embodiment is advantageous in terms of assembly and manufacturing effort, as the protective device essentially consists of only armor plates of a single type. In this embodiment, either the first or the second armor plate can be braced against the vehicle wall. Furthermore, both armor plates can also be braced against the vehicle wall, particularly at their respective ends.

[0039] Regarding the material properties of the plate, it has proven advantageous for the armor plate to have a Brinell hardness of at least 480 HBW. Such a hardness can be achieved, for example, with armor steel and ensures reliable protection of the vehicle.

[0040] Furthermore, regarding the design of the armor plates, it has proven advantageous if at least one of the plates is designed as a perforated plate. A perforated plate offers a favorable weight-to-protective ratio. The holes in the armor plate significantly reduce its weight, but the weakening of the plate, or the reduction in its strength, does not decrease proportionally. The holes can extend along the perpendicular axis of the plate and be evenly distributed across it. Upon impact, the holes can cause a projectile to be deflected. This also increases the probability of projectile destruction upon impact.It is advantageous if several armor plates, and especially if all armor plates, are designed as perforated plates, so that a homogeneous level of protection is achieved over the entire surface of the vehicle to be protected.

[0041] Regarding perforated plates, it has proven advantageous for them to have a Brinell hardness of at least 580 HBW. Although the holes can improve the deflection and destruction of incoming projectiles, they can also lead to an overall reduction in the plate's strength. High hardness can compensate for this loss of strength caused by the holes. Overall, perforated plates with a Brinell hardness of 580 HBW offer better protection than armor plates with a Brinell hardness of 480 HBW that do not have holes.

[0042] With regard to the aforementioned task, a protective cassette is further proposed which incorporates a protective device as described above. This results in the same advantages as already described with regard to the protective device.

[0043] The protective cassette can be mounted as an additional protection module in front of a vehicle, especially a military vehicle. Since there is a risk of being hit by kinetic energy projectiles, particularly in the side hull area, the protective cassette can be positioned specifically in this area. The protective cassette can be detachably connected to the vehicle. It can be attached to the vehicle's side wall or, alternatively, to the vehicle's roof.

[0044] With regard to the protective cassette, the invention provides that it has two retaining elements between which the armor plates extend. The retaining elements can be plate-shaped, and the armor plates can extend perpendicular to the retaining elements. In this respect, the armor plates can be connected to the retaining elements at their opposite short end regions. The two retaining elements can be arranged parallel to each other, resulting in a rectangular or square protective area.

[0045] Regarding the connection of the armor plates to the retaining elements, it has proven advantageous for the armor plates to be inserted into the retaining elements. This plug-in connection simplifies the assembly of the protective cassette. The armor plates can be inserted into the retaining elements at their ends, for which the retaining elements can have insertion slots. At the opposite end sections of the armor plates to be connected to the retaining elements, they can have corresponding projections that can then be inserted into the insertion slots of the retaining elements. Due to the angled arrangement of the armor plates, the insertion slots of the retaining elements can form a zigzag pattern. It is advantageous for the armor plates to be inserted into the retaining elements at their shorter end sections.The armor plates can thus be held at all four end areas, namely at the two short end areas by the holding elements and at the two long end areas by the respective adjacent armor plates.

[0046] According to the invention, it is further provided that the armor plates are, in particular additionally, materially bonded to the retaining elements, especially by welding. Since the corresponding welds are arranged laterally to the cassette and perpendicular to the direction of threat, a materially bonded connection can be tolerated in this area. The armor plates can accordingly be welded, soldered, bonded, or otherwise materially bonded to a retaining plate at both opposite ends.

[0047] In further development of the protective shell, it has proven advantageous for it to incorporate a support structure to brace the armor plates. This support structure can be positioned between the armor plates and the vehicle wall being supported, ensuring that the plates deform only to a certain extent upon impact with a projectile, while remaining reliably connected to one another. The corresponding support structure can be positioned behind the armor plates in the direction of fire, bracing them against the vehicle wall. The support structure can be at least partially elastic, allowing for some bending of the armor plates, but this bending remains within a range that prevents the armor plates from separating. The support device can be made of, for example, a foamed material, a rubber material, or a spring-like material.The support structure can also be part of the protective device.

[0048] With regard to the aforementioned task, a vehicle, in particular a military vehicle, is further proposed, comprising an outer wall and a protective device or a protective cassette arranged on the outside of the wall. The protective device and the protective cassette can be designed as described above. The protective cassette and the protective device offer the advantages already described.

[0049] It has proven advantageous for the armor plates to be arranged at an angle to the vehicle wall. This design ensures that an incoming projectile strikes either the armor plates or the vehicle wall at an oblique angle, which is beneficial in terms of protection. It is particularly advantageous if the armor plates form a 45° angle with the vehicle wall. This design guarantees uniform and reliable protection across the entire vehicle wall. The armor plates can be braced against the vehicle wall. It is especially advantageous if the second set of armor plates, on the side with the second connecting contour, is braced against the vehicle wall, as this is where the highest pressure forces are expected from an impacting projectile.

[0050] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous if the vehicle has connection points via which the protective cassette, particularly detachably, can be attached to the vehicle. These connection points can be located on connecting webs that project vertically from the vehicle wall. In this case, the protective cassette can be positioned between two webs and thus extend parallel to the vehicle wall. The protective cassette can be connected to the vehicle wall or to the corresponding connecting webs via a screw connection. This allows for easy installation and removal of the protective cassette.

[0051] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous for the vehicle to have a spall liner on the inside of the vehicle wall. Such a spall liner can intercept fragments entering the vehicle interior. The protective cassette positioned in front of the vehicle wall in the direction of fire primarily offers protection against kinetic energy projectiles, which could otherwise penetrate the vehicle wall due to their kinetic energy. The spall liner, on the other hand, can provide protection against fragments. This is particularly advantageous if an impacting projectile breaks into several smaller fragments upon contact with the armor plating and these fragments then manage to penetrate the vehicle wall at multiple points.

[0052] To connect the spall liner to the vehicle wall, it has proven advantageous to have a boss, particularly a weld-on boss, on the vehicle wall to which the spall liner can be attached. The boss can be connected to the inside of the vehicle wall, especially by welding it on. It is advantageous if the spall liner can be connected to the boss via a screw connection. This allows for easy installation and removal of the spall liner. Alternatively, the spall liner can also be directly connected to the vehicle wall, for example, by gluing it on.

[0053] Further advantages of the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings. These show: Fig. 1 a protective case in a first embodiment in a rear view; Fig. 2 a protective cassette according to Fig. 1 in a front view; Fig. 3a different armor plates of the protective cassette according to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 in a cutaway side view; Fig. 3b different armor plates of the protective cassette, which are alternately inserted into each other; Fig. 4 a detailed view of a retaining element; Fig. 5 a connection of first and second armor plates according to the design of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2; Fig. 6 a connection of first and second armor plates according to a second embodiment; Fig. 7 a schematic detail view of the connection of a first armor plate with a second armor plate according to the first embodiment; Fig. 8 a schematic detail view of the connection of a first armor plate with a second armor plate; Fig. 9 a perspective side view of a protective cassette attached to a vehicle wall in a second embodiment; Fig. 10 a protective cassette according to Fig. 9 in a front view; Fig. 11a, Fig. 11b Cut side views through a protective cassette and through the vehicle wall according to a second embodiment.

[0054] In the presentation of the Fig. Figure 1 shows a protective device 1 arranged in front of the vehicle wall 20 of a military vehicle to protect the vehicle from incoming projectiles, especially so-called kinetic energy projectiles. Such projectiles have a particularly high destructive potential when they strike the vehicle wall 20 perpendicularly. Therefore, the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 of the protective device 1 are arranged at angles to each other and also at angles to the vehicle wall 20, as can be seen, for example, in the side view of the Fig. 3a and the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3b. If a projectile approaching from firing direction A strikes the corresponding vehicle or vehicle wall 20, the projectile either hits the respective armor plate 2.1, 2.2 or the vehicle wall 20 behind it at an oblique angle, which increases the level of protection. Further mechanisms that also contribute to increased protection are described below.

[0055] In terms of its construction, the protective device 1 has two different armor plates, namely a first armor plate 2.1 and a second armor plate 2.2. As can be seen from the Fig. 3a and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3b, armor plate 2.1 is inclined upwards in the direction of fire, and armor plate 2.2 is inclined downwards in the direction of fire. Armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 form an angle of approximately 90° with each other and approximately 45° with the vehicle wall 20. To connect the different armor plates 2.1 and 2.2, each has a connecting contour 3, via which the armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 are positively interlocked. This positive-locking connection offers the advantage that the connection does not affect the armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 themselves, allowing them to remain essentially as unaltered as possible. If, on the other hand, the armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 were welded, the high temperature influences would lead to structural changes and thus to a loss of strength in the armor plates 2.1 and 2.2. Before discussing the following... Fig. 1 and Fig. Section 2, which will be discussed in more detail later, will first be illustrated by the schematic representation of the Fig. 5 describes how the various armor plates 2.1, 2.2 are connected to each other in a form-fitting manner.

[0056] In the Fig. In section 5, armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 are arranged alternately one below the other. When armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 are connected, however, they do not lie in the same plane, but are arranged at an angle to each other, as shown in the Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b can be seen. In the Fig. Figure 5 above shows the second armor plate 2.2. This plate has a first connecting contour 3.1 at one end, which in turn comprises several adjacent connecting projections 3.11 and connecting recesses 3.12. The first armor plate 2.1 below it also has a corresponding first connecting contour 3.1 at its upper end, with several connecting projections 3.11 and connecting recesses 3.12 that fit precisely into the corresponding connecting recesses 3.12 and connecting projections 3.11 of the second armor plate 2.2. The armor plates 2.2 and 2.1 can thus be connected to each other via the two first connecting contours 3.1. The connecting projections 3.11 of one armor plate 2.1 engage with the connecting recesses 3.12 of the other armor plate 2.2, so that the two armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 are interlocked.This toothing V is also visible, for example, in the side view of the . Fig. 3a indicated or recognizable.

[0057] In the opposite end region, the first armor plate 2.1 also has a first connecting contour 3.1 with several connecting projections 3.11 and several connecting recesses 3.12. However, the second armor plate 2.2 has a differently designed second connecting contour 3.2 at the opposite end of the first connecting contour 3.1, which includes several insertion openings 3.21, as shown in the Fig. 5 can be seen. The corresponding insertion openings 3.21 are designed as insertion slots into which the connecting projections 3.11 of the first armor plate 2.1 can be inserted. At the other end of the second armor plate 2.2, it is then connected to a first armor plate 2.1 via the first connecting contour 3.1. In this way, as many armor plates as necessary are arranged in a zigzag pattern in front of the side wall of the vehicle until the entire outer wall of the vehicle is adequately protected.

[0058] In the Fig. Figure 3a shows how the first armor plate 2.1 is inserted into the second armor plate 2.2 on the side of the protective device 1 facing away from the threat. This insertion connection S results in a certain overhang of the second armor plate 2.2 compared to the first armor plate 2.1. This is also evident from the arrangement of the insertion opening 3.21 in the second armor plate 2.2, as shown in Fig. Figure 7 shows this. The insertion openings 3.21 have a certain edge distance R, which corresponds approximately to the height H of the armor plate 2.1. On the side of the protective device 1 facing the threat, the first armor plate 2.1 is interlocked with the second armor plate 2.2 via the first connecting contours 3.1. Since the width B of the connecting projections 3.11 and the connecting recesses 3.12 corresponds approximately to the height H of the armor plate 2.1, as is the case, for example, in the Fig. As can be seen in section 8, no protrusion is created with this toothing V.

[0059] The plug connection S, facing away from the threat, is capable of withstanding higher compressive forces than the toothed connection V. This is because, when a projectile strikes the first armor plate 2.1, it can reliably brace itself against the second armor plate 2.2, and the connecting projections 3.11 inserted into the insertion opening 3.21 cannot slip out of the insertion openings. The acting forces can thus be transferred from the second armor plate 2.2 into the vehicle wall 20.

[0060] In the Fig. 1 is now the protective device 1 according to the Fig. Figure 3a shows a rear view. Visible, for example, are the insertion openings 3.21 in the second armor plates 2.2, into which the connecting projections 3.11 of the first armor plates 2.1 are inserted. In the illustration of the Fig. 2 is the protective device 1 according to the illustration in Fig. Figure 1 shows a front view, i.e., from the direction of the incoming projectile. The rear connectors S are not clearly visible, however, the front interlocking V of the first armor plates 2.1 with the second armor plates 2.2 is clearly visible. Retaining elements 11 are also visible in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 can be seen, between which the armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 extend vertically. The armor plates 2.1, 2.2 together with these retaining elements 11 form a protective cassette 10, which can be arranged in front of the side wall of a military vehicle in the manner of an additional protection module.

[0061] In the presentation of the Fig. Figure 3b shows an embodiment in which the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 are inserted into one another on both sides and are thus connected to each other via plug connections S and not via interlocking teeth V. In this embodiment, both the first armor plates 2.1 and the second armor plates 2.2 have a first connecting contour 3.1 and also a second connecting contour 3.2, so that the plates 2.1, 2.2 can be inserted into each other alternately. Due to the edge distance of the insertion openings 3.21, the plates 2.1, 2.2 therefore also have a certain protrusion on both the side facing the threat and the side facing away from the threat.

[0062] In the presentation of the Fig. Figure 4 shows a retaining element 11 in a side view. The retaining element 11 has several insertion slots 11.1 arranged in a zigzag pattern. The armor plates 2.1, 2.2 each have projections on their short end faces which, when assembled, are inserted into the corresponding insertion slots 11.1 and thus positively locked in the retaining element 11. In this respect, not only are the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 positively connected to each other, but the corresponding armor plates 2.1, 2.2 are also positively locked in the retaining element 11. In addition, the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 are also welded to the retaining elements 11.

[0063] The armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 have a rectangular shape, as can be seen, for example, from the Fig. 9, which will be discussed in more detail below, is evident. The shorter end sections of the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 are connected to the lateral retaining elements 11, and the longer end sections 2.1, 2.2 of the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 are each connected to the adjacent armor plates 2.1, 2.2. Thus, the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 are held on all four sides. Only the uppermost armor plate 2.1, 2.2 and the lowermost armor plate 2.1, 2.2 of the protective cassette 10 are each connected to only one adjacent armor plate, as shown in the Fig. 9 can be seen.

[0064] The in the Fig. 9 and Fig. Protective cassette 10 shown is essentially identical to the protective cassette 10 that is also used in the Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the only difference is that the first armor plates 2.1 are not inserted into the second armor plates 2.2, but that the respective armor plates 2.1, 2.2 are connected to each other via an interlocking V on both the side facing the threat and the side facing away from the threat.

[0065] The corresponding toothing V is also shown schematically in the Fig. 6 to recognize. As in a comparison of the Fig. 5 and Fig. As is noticeable in Figure 6, these are essentially the same first armor plates 2.1. In this second embodiment, the second armor plates 2.2 have a first connecting contour 3.1 in both opposite end regions and, accordingly, no second connecting contour 2.1 as in the first embodiment. Thus, the second armor plates 2.2, just like the first armor plates, have connecting projections 3.11 and connecting recesses 3.12 on both sides. As explained above with regard to the Fig. 3a and Fig. As already described in Figure 6, when the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 are connected, the connecting projections 3.11 of one armor plate 2.1, 2.2 engage with the corresponding connecting recesses 3.12 of another armor plate 2.1, 2.2, so that the two armor plates 2.1, 2.2 are then interlocked. In this second embodiment as well, the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 are arranged perpendicular to each other, as can be seen in Figures 11a and 11b. This is clearly visible in the Fig. 11a also states that in this design with two toothed connections V there is no overhang of one armor plate 2.2 compared to another armor plate 2.1.

[0066] As further explained in the Fig. 9 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 10, the armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 are designed as perforated plates with several holes arranged side by side and extending in normal directions. Although in the Fig. 9 and Fig. While only the lower half of armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 may have corresponding holes, all armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 may just as easily have corresponding holes. Furthermore, armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 may also be designed as perforated plates according to the first embodiment.

[0067] The holes in the perforated plates cause impacting projectiles to be deflected or, ideally, even partially fragmented at the holes. While the holes offer advantages in terms of protection, they also reduce the inherent strength of the armor plates 2.1 and 2.2. Therefore, armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 designed as perforated plates exhibit increased strength compared to armor plates 2.1 and 2.1 without holes. In practice, for example, perforated plates with a Brinell hardness of at least 580 HBW are used, whereas armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 without holes may only require a Brinell hardness of 480 HBW. The higher hardness thus compensates for the reduction in strength of armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 caused by the holes. In the example shown here, the corresponding armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 are...2. Made of armor steel, with which corresponding Brinell hardnesses can be achieved.

[0068] To connect the corresponding protective cassettes 10 to the vehicle or the vehicle wall 20, connecting webs 24 are arranged vertically on the vehicle wall 20. These connecting webs 24 have connection points 23 via which the retaining elements 11 of the protective cassette 10 can then be connected to the vehicle wall 20, as shown in the illustration of the Fig. 9 can be seen. The retaining elements 11 extend parallel to the connecting webs 24, so that the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 extend longitudinally along the vehicle wall 2. As this is further shown in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 9, the protective cassette 10 is connected to the connecting webs 24 via a screw connection. This has the advantage that the protective cassette 10 can be connected to the corresponding vehicle or vehicle wall 20 relatively quickly if required. However, if no increased vehicle protection is needed, for example when the vehicle is being loaded, the protective cassette 10 can be easily removed from the vehicle again.

[0069] In the Fig. Figure 11a shows that, due to the angular arrangement of the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 relative to each other, a gap 25 is created between the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 and the vehicle wall 20. Although this is not shown in the figure, this gap can be filled with a support structure, allowing the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 to brace themselves against the vehicle wall 20 via this support structure. This strengthens the connection between the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 to such an extent that they deform only to a certain degree upon impact with a projectile, and therefore the positive-locking connection between the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 cannot break. This also applies to the embodiment according to Fig. 3a or Fig. 3b a corresponding support structure may be provided, which then enables additional support of the armor plates 2.1, 2.2 against the vehicle wall 20.

[0070] Furthermore, in the Fig.Figures 11a and 11b show that a spall liner 21 is arranged on the inside of the vehicle wall 20. The vehicle wall 20 has weld-on bosses 20 to which the spall liner can be screwed. On the outside of the vehicle wall 20 is the protective cassette 10, which primarily protects against kinetic energy penetrators, and on the inside of the vehicle wall 20 is the spall liner 21, which primarily protects against fragmentation. Since, especially when the armor plates 2.1 and 2.2 are designed as perforated plates, impacting ammunition can shatter into multiple fragments, and these fragments can then pose a significant danger to the vehicle occupants, a certain synergy effect arises between the protection against kinetic energy penetrators arranged on the outside of the vehicle wall 20 and the spall liner 21 arranged on the inside of the vehicle wall 20. Reference symbol: 1 protective device 2.1 first armor plate 2.2 second armor plate 3 Connection contour 3.1 First connection contour 3.11 Connecting projections 3.12 Connection Returns 3.2 second connection contour 3.21 Insertion opening 10 protective cassettes 11 retaining element 11.1 Insertion slots 20 vehicle wall 21 Spall-Liner 22 butts 23 liaison point 24 Connecting bridge 25 space A firing direction B width H height S connector R Edge distance V-shaped toothing

Claims

[1] Protective case with a protective device (1) for protecting a vehicle against ballistic fire, in particular against fire with kinetic energy ammunition, comprising at least one first armor plate (2.1) and at least one second armor plate (2.2), wherein the first and the second armor plate (2.1, 2.2) are arranged at an angle to each other, wherein two retaining elements (11) are provided between which the armor plates (2.1, 2.2) extend, wherein the armor plates (2.1, 2.2) each have a connecting contour (3) via which the first armor plate (2.1) and the second armor plate (2.2) are positively interlocked and connected to each other, wherein the armor plates (2.1, 2.2) are materially bonded to the retaining elements (11), wherein the armor plates (2.1, 2.2) are arranged in a zigzag pattern and wherein the armor plates (2.1, 2.2)2) are connected to each other on the side facing the threat via an interlocking mechanism (V) and on the side facing away from the threat via a plug connection (S). [2] Protective cassette according to claim 1, characterized by , that the first armor plate (2.1) and the second armor plate (2.2) are arranged perpendicular to each other. [3] Protective cassette according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by several first and several second armor plates (2.1, 2.2), wherein at least two first armor plates (2.1) are arranged parallel to each other and two second armor plates (2.2) are arranged parallel to each other. [4] Protective case according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first armor plate (2.1) and the second armor plate (2.2) are interlocked via the connecting contours (3). [5] Protective case according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the connection contour (3) is designed such that the first armor plate (2.1) can be inserted into the second armor plate (2.2). [6] Protective case according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that opposite end areas of the first armor plate (2.1) are formed as first connecting contours (3.1), wherein the first connecting contours (3.1) have alternating connecting projections (3.11) and connecting recesses (3.12). [7] Protective case according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the second armor plate (2.2) has a connecting contour (3.2) which includes, in particular, several insertion openings (3.21). [8] Protective cassette according to claim 7, characterized by , that the connecting projections (3.11) of the first armor plate (2.1) can be inserted into the insertion openings (3.21) of the second armor plate (2.2) to create a plug connection (S) of the two armor plates (2.1, 2.2). [9] Protective case according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one of the armor plates (2.1, 2.2) is designed as a perforated plate. [10] Protective cassette according to claim 9, characterized by that the perforated plates have a Brinell hardness of at least 580 HBW. [11] Vehicle, in particular a military vehicle, comprising a vehicle wall (20) and a protective cassette (10) arranged on the outside of the vehicle wall (20) according to one of claims 1 to 11. [12] Vehicle according to claim 11, characterized by a spall liner (21) arranged on the inside of the vehicle wall (20).

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