PROTECTIVE DEVICE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a vehicle with an attachment and an element which is coupled to the vehicle and the attachment, and a protective device for protecting the element.

[0002] Appropriate protective devices are used particularly in the military sector to protect components connected to two objects that can move relative to each other. For example, one object might be a military vehicle and the other an attachment that enhances the vehicle's functionality. Typical examples of such attachments are outrigger pads, which stabilize the vehicle against the ground, or mine plows, which clear mines located in front of the vehicle.

[0003] To ensure reliable stabilization or mine clearance, it is generally necessary to move the corresponding attachments relative to the vehicle. This is required, firstly, to raise the support shields or mine plows when they are not in use, and secondly, for example, to adjust them to the ground conditions. For instance, a support shield must be lowered further on soft, yielding ground to stabilize the vehicle than on hard, possibly frozen ground.

[0004] To move the attachments relative to the vehicle, lifting cylinders are often used. These lifting cylinders are usually connected to the vehicle on one side and to the attachment on the other, so that the attachment can be moved relative to the vehicle by changing the length of the lifting cylinder. Additional components, such as electrical or hydraulic lines for supplying power to the attachment, may also be included, connected to the vehicle on one side and the attachment on the other.

[0005] The components connected to the vehicle and its attachment pose a comparatively high risk to the entire vehicle and its crew in the event of ballistic fire. For example, if a lifting cylinder or a supply line is destroyed, the attachment may become immobilized, potentially rendering the entire vehicle unmaneuverable in the worst-case scenario. To protect these components from ballistic fire, protective elements are used and connected to one of the two objects. While these protective elements generally provide reliable protection in a specific, predefined position relative to each other, other positions may result in reduced or insufficient protection.

[0006] If the protective element is connected to the vehicle, for example, the lifting cylinder or supply lines can completely cover and protect these elements when the attachment is in a raised position. However, if the attachment is lowered, thus extending the lifting cylinder or supply lines, the lower part of the lifting cylinder or the supply lines may become at least partially exposed and therefore no longer protected. The relative movement of the two objects can thus reduce the level of protection offered by the elements.

[0007] WO 2011 / 037531 A1 relates to a steering device for steering a first vehicle unit and a second vehicle unit of an articulated vehicle to each other, wherein the vehicle comprises a substantially vertical connecting shaft about which the vehicle units are pivotable, wherein first and second steering elements are arranged to rotate the vehicle units to each other, and wherein the steering device comprises a housing configuration arranged to form a supply space between the vehicle units.

[0008] EP 2 105 696 A2 relates to a multi-quick disconnect coupling (2) with an outer plate and a base plate integrated on / in the vehicle.

[0009] Starting from this premise, the invention presents itself as follows: Task,to specify a vehicle with an attachment and an element coupled to the vehicle and the attachment, and a protective device to protect the element, whereby reliable protection of the element is ensured even in the event of relative movement of the attachment and the vehicle.

[0010] This problem is solved by a device having the features defined in claim 1, solved .

[0011] By connecting the protective element to both objects that are movable relative to each other, the protective element can follow the movement of the objects and thus reliably protect the element even when the two objects are moving relative to each other. The multiple, movably connected protective segments allow them to move relative to each other when the two objects move, so that the level of protection is not reduced. The channel, open at one end, allows the protective device to be used on a surface along which the element to be protected moves. The surface can be part of one of the two objects. The protective element can be placed on the surface so that the element passes through the protective channel. In this respect, the protective element can be designed as a surface-mounted guard. The opening of the protective element, or...The protective channel can then be closed by placing it on the surface, so that the protective element is reliably protected.

[0012] With regard to the channel opening, it has proven advantageous for it to extend lengthwise along the protective element. This design allows for easy installation, as the element does not need to be threaded through the protective element, but rather the protective element can be placed onto the element like a tube open lengthwise. The protective element or device can therefore also function as a very easy-to-install retrofit solution, and the element does not need to be disassembled. The tube can be semicircular or U-shaped, so that the protective element can reliably cover the element to be protected. The protective element can thus be designed as a cover.

[0013] It has proven advantageous for the protective segments to be connected to each other in a linear and / or pivoting manner. To allow for the freest possible movement of the objects, at least two protective segments can be connected to each other in a linear manner and at least two protective segments can be connected to each other in a pivoting manner. It is also possible for a protective segment to be connected to another protective segment in a linear manner on one side and to each other in a pivoting manner on the other side.

[0014] To ensure that the two objects can not only move at the same distance relative to each other, but also that reliable protection is guaranteed even when the distance changes, the protective element can be designed to be length-adjustable. The protective element can thus provide protection for the other element regardless of the movement or position of the objects.

[0015] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous if the protective element is extendable. This allows for easy length adjustment of the protective element, so that the movement of the objects relative to each other is not impaired.

[0016] Regarding the design of the protective element, a scale-like armor has proven advantageous. This allows the protective element to move and its length to be easily adjusted while still ensuring reliable protection. In this respect, the scale-like armor design enables the protective element to be variably adapted to different object positions and thus also to different orientations of the element itself.

[0017] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous for the protective element to have multiple protective segments, with at least two of these segments overlapping at least partially. These protective segments ensure both reliable protection and high variability. Even better protection can be achieved in the areas where the protective segments overlap, as ballistic projectiles must penetrate not just one, but several consecutive protective segments before reaching the element to be protected. Overlapping of adjacent protective segments is particularly beneficial. The protective segments can also be fanned out, either linearly or circularly.

[0018] The protective segments can overlap in such a way that incoming projectiles cannot penetrate between them. "Pedestrian penetration" refers to the incoming projectile striking the seams between two protective segments and then passing through these seams without actually penetrating the segments. During this penetration, the projectile loses significantly less energy compared to penetrating one or more protective segments, thus increasing the risk of damage to the element. The protective segments can overlap in the direction from which a projectile is most likely to be fired upon. For example, if the protective device is mounted at the front of a vehicle, the primary concern is a projectile fired from the front and possibly also from the sides, but not from the rear. Therefore, the overlap direction can be rearward or...point in the direction of the vehicle.

[0019] However, it is also possible for the overlap direction to point forward, or in the direction of an incoming projectile. In the case of a vehicle, the overlap direction can therefore point in the direction of travel. To prevent or at least reduce the risk of projectiles getting caught in the overlap, especially in this configuration, the protective segments can be inclined downwards. This inclination prevents incoming projectiles, which typically come from a horizontal direction or from above, from striking the seams between two protective segments at a critical angle.

[0020] To ensure reliable protection, it has proven advantageous for the protective segments to be movable relative to each other, thus adjusting the protected area. If the distance between the two objects decreases, the protective segments can be moved relative to each other, in particular slid into one another, allowing them to adapt to the movement of the objects or the element to be protected. If the distance increases, the protective segments can also be moved relative to each other, in particular pulled apart, thereby increasing the protected area of ​​the protective segments or the protective device. The protective segments can therefore be slid into one another. While sliding them into one another may reduce the protected area of ​​the protective device, it can simultaneously increase the level of protection of the protected area.Because of the interlocking design, the protective segments can overlap over a larger area, or more than two protective segments can overlap, resulting in a self-reinforcing effect. Furthermore, the protective segments can act as guides for inserted or retractable protective segments, or incorporate corresponding guides, preventing the protective segments from jamming or jamming during interlocking and ensuring reliable length adjustment. The guides can be designed as guide rails.

[0021] The protective segments can be passively movable relative to each other, in particular linearly movable and / or pivotable. The protective segments can thus move automatically along with the relative movement of the objects, and no separate drive is required for their movement. Because one protective segment of the protective element can be connected to the first object, in particular a vehicle, and another protective segment to the second object, in particular an attachment, the protective segments move automatically when the objects move relative to each other. Therefore, no drive is required to move the protective segments.

[0022] In a further development of the invention, it is proposed that the protective segments be arranged in a row. This design makes it particularly suitable for protecting elongated elements, such as supply lines or lifting cylinders.

[0023] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous for the protective segments to be movably connected to one another. Such a connection also allows for good mobility of the protective segments relative to each other, so that the relative movement of the two objects is not impaired by the protective device or element. It is particularly advantageous if adjacent protective segments are movably connected to one another. The protective segments can be linearly and / or pivotally connected to one another. It is especially advantageous if at least one protective segment is linearly connected to another, thus enabling a change in the length of the protective device. Furthermore, at least two protective segments can be pivotally connected to one another. This allows for an angular change or adjustment of the protective element.However, it is also possible that some protective segments are not movably connected to each other, but that some protective segments are firmly connected to neighboring protective segments to stabilize the protective element.

[0024] Advantageously, the protective element has at least three protective segments, wherein the middle protective segment is linearly movable on one side from another protective segment and, in particular, can be inserted into it, and pivotally movable on the other side from another protective segment. This design allows for both changes in length and angle, so that the movement of the objects is not impeded.

[0025] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous for the protective segments to be made of armor steel. Armor steel can provide reliable protection against various types of ballistic threats. Moreover, armor steel is relatively easy to process and shape. The armor steel can have a Brinell hardness of over 300 HB, preferably over 400 HB, particularly preferably over 500 HB, and most preferably over 600 HB. Alternatively, the protective segments can also be made of non-ferrous metals, ceramics, or mixtures thereof.

[0026] With regard to the protective channel, the protective segments can cover the element to be protected or enclose it together with the surface, thus reliably protecting it from threats. The protective segments advantageously offer protection from three directions. Since the element(s) to be protected usually run along a surface or their back side is already protected by another object, especially a vehicle, protection from three directions is often sufficient. The protective element can be designed like a protective tunnel through which the element to be protected can extend.

[0027] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous for the protective segments to be U-shaped. This design provides reliable side protection. The U-shaped protective segments can be arranged on a surface, particularly the surface of one of the objects, so that the protective segments enclose the elements together with the surface. The U-shaped protective segments can have two leg sections arranged essentially parallel to each other. The leg sections can extend essentially perpendicular to the surface. A cover section can also be provided, which can extend essentially parallel to the surface and perpendicular to the leg sections. In an alternative embodiment, the protective segments can also have two leg sections arranged at an angle to each other. In this embodiment, an additional cover section is not required.The protective segments can then have the shape of an inverted V.

[0028] Furthermore, with regard to the protective segments, it has proven advantageous for them to be designed as intermediate or end protective segments, with an end protective segment at each end of the protective element and one or more intermediate protective segments positioned between them. The end protective segments can serve to protect the ends of the element to be protected and can therefore be guided around the ends of the element to be protected. It is also possible for the intermediate protective segment to be integrally formed with at least one end protective segment. A first end protective segment can be connected to the first object, in particular the vehicle, and a second end protective segment can be connected to the second object, in particular the attachment. The intermediate protective segment can be pivotally connected to one end protective segment and linearly connected to the other end protective segment.

[0029] In a further development of the invention, it is proposed that the intermediate protection segment(s) have an insertion side and / or an insertion recess, and that the end protection segment(s) have an insertion side and / or an insertion recess. An intermediate protection segment can be inserted into another intermediate protection segment via the insertion side. Furthermore, another intermediate protection segment can also be inserted into an intermediate protection segment via the insertion recess. The insertion side of an intermediate protection segment can thus be inserted into the insertion recess of an adjacent intermediate protection segment. Insertion recesses and insertion sides can therefore be arranged alternately. An end protection segment can be inserted into an insertion recess of an adjacent intermediate protection segment via the insertion side. The other end protection segment can have an insertion recess into which the adjacent additional protection segment can be inserted.The front end protection segment can have an insertion recess and the rear end protection segment an insertion side. Furthermore, several intermediate protection segments can be pivotally connected to one another.

[0030] According to an advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that a protective segment be linearly movable on one side and connected to an adjacent protective segment. Furthermore, the protective segment can be pivotally movable on the other side via a hinge to another adjacent protective segment. These connections allow for both linear and angular compensation, thus ensuring a consistent level of protection. The protective segment positioned between the other two can be an intermediate protective segment, and the other two protective segments can be end protective segments.

[0031] The intermediate guard segment can have an insertion side and be inserted into the first end guard segment via this side, which can therefore have an insertion recess. On the other hand, the intermediate guard segment and the second end guard segment can be pivotally connected to each other. It is advantageous if the segments are pivotally connected in such a way that the element to be protected is not exposed even during a pivoting movement. In this respect, the intermediate guard segment and the second end guard segment can also overlap, at least partially. Furthermore, the second end guard segment can have a hinge guard that can cover the hinge axis like a cap. This hinge guard can ensure protection of the hinge and thus also of the element to be protected when the intermediate guard segment and the second end guard segment move relative to each other.The joint protection can be provided on any protective segment that is pivotally connected to another protective segment. Advantageously, one of two pivotally connected protective segments has such joint protection.

[0032] When one protective segment is inserted into another, the two protective segments can be arranged essentially parallel to each other, so that a projectile must then penetrate both protective segments to reach the element to be protected. If the insertable protective segment is linearly movable on one side and pivotally movable on the other, it can be inserted into the other protective segment to such an extent that the joint is at least partially covered by the corresponding protective segment. The intermediate protective segment can therefore be inserted into the end protective segment to such an extent that the joint is at least partially covered by the corresponding end protective segment.

[0033] It is also possible for the intermediate guard segment to be connected to an end guard segment in a way that allows for both linear and pivotal movement. Since this connection alone enables both length and angle adjustments, the intermediate guard segment can also be rigidly or integrally connected to the other end guard segment.

[0034] From a design perspective, it has proven advantageous if at least one protective segment, particularly the intermediate protective segment, is tapered. The protective segments can, for example, be wider on one side than on the opposite side. They can also be tapered, for example, conically or in a trapezoidal shape. With a trapezoidal taper, the height of the protective segment, and thus the height of the entire protective element, can remain constant along its length, while the width can vary. This tapering allows for adaptation to the element being protected. If the element is, for example, a flexible cable, there can be sufficient space under the protective element, at least in a certain area, to allow for lateral movement. This might be necessary, for instance, if an attachment is lifted and the distance between the two objects changes.The distance between the connection points of the element and the objects is reduced.

[0035] The protective segments can have different widths. In particular, the first end protection segment can be wider than the second, so that the intermediate protection segment can be reliably moved into the first end protection segment. A protective segment, especially the first end protection segment, can have a recess that allows another protective segment, especially an intermediate protection segment, to be moved as far as possible into the first end protection segment. The recess can be designed to accommodate a hinge guard, so that when pushed together, the two end protection segments can directly abut each other.

[0036] From a design perspective, it is further proposed that one protective segment, particularly the second end protection segment, be wedge-shaped. This design has proven particularly advantageous when the object is designed as a military vehicle, as the front of such a vehicle is usually also wedge-shaped. When a projectile strikes the corresponding protective segment horizontally, the wedge shape thus results in improved protection. The wedge-shaped surface of the protective segment can therefore extend diagonally downwards.

[0037] According to an advantageous further development, it is proposed that at least one connection point be arranged on each end protection segment. By arranging the connection points on the end protection segments, the protective element can be connected to one of the two objects at both its front and rear ends.

[0038] With regard to the connection points, it is proposed that at least one connection point be designed as a hinged connection point for a hinged connection to one of the objects. A hinged connection point allows for a hinged connection between the protective element and the corresponding object. The protective element can also be hingedly connected to both objects, meaning that all connection points can be designed as hinged connection points, or corresponding hinged connection points can be provided on both end protection segments.

[0039] However, it is also possible for the protective element to be permanently connected to at least one object via the connection points. It is advantageous for the protective element to be permanently connected to both objects. This ensures a reliable connection between the protective element and both objects. The ability to move the objects relative to each other despite a fixed connection results from the fact that the protective segments can move relative to each other, partly linearly and / or partly pivotally. Furthermore, a certain amount of play in the protective segments can also allow for corresponding relative movement. The two end protection segments can, for example, be welded, screwed, riveted, or glued to the respective object.

[0040] Regarding the second end protection segment, it has proven advantageous to connect it to one of the objects via lateral attachment points. A screw connection has proven effective for this purpose. This lateral connection reduces the exposure of the corresponding attachment points and therefore their risk of being hit.

[0041] With regard to this element, it has proven advantageous for it to be mechanically, pneumatically, hydraulically, or electrically coupled to the vehicle and / or the attachment. The element can thus ensure a mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, or electrical connection between the attachment and the vehicle. The element can supply the attachment with energy, which can be used, among other things, to move the attachment relative to the vehicle.

[0042] Further training suggests that the element be designed as a cable, particularly an electrical cable, a hydraulic or pneumatic cable, a lifting cylinder, particularly a hydraulic cylinder, or a connecting rod. By designing it as a cable, the attachment can be supplied with electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic energy. The transmission of control signals to the attachment can also be ensured in this way. As a rule, such cables do not offer protection against ballistic impacts, meaning they can be easily damaged. This can sometimes result in the attachments becoming immobile. Therefore, the protective element, especially for such cables, significantly increases the level of protection. The cables can be connected to a corresponding vehicle circuit. For example, the attachment can thus be connected to the vehicle's electrical system.the vehicle's battery, connected to a hydraulic or pneumatic circuit or to corresponding compressors.

[0043] Even when the element is designed as a lifting cylinder or a articulated rod, there is an increased risk. These components can also be damaged by ballistic fire, meaning that if destroyed or damaged, the attachment may no longer be able to move reliably.

[0044] Furthermore, it is also possible for the protective element to protect not just one element, but several. For example, the attachment can be connected to the vehicle via both a lifting cylinder and a cable. The protective element can then simultaneously protect both elements from ballistic impacts. Protection of multiple cables is also possible.

[0045] Regarding the arrangement of the element, it is proposed that it be positioned between the vehicle and the implement. "Between" in this context does not necessarily mean that the element is spatially located between the vehicle and the implement, but rather that the element is functionally located between the vehicle and the implement, so that the implement can, for example, be supplied with energy and controlled via the vehicle.

[0046] Regarding the protective device, it is proposed that it span the element(s) as well as any other elements. The protective device or element can be connected to the vehicle on one side and to the attachment on the other. The element is thus protected against ballistic fire along its entire length, regardless of the movement of the objects. In this respect, the attachment is also connected to the vehicle via the protective element.

[0047] Regarding the design of the attachment, it is proposed that it be configured as a support shield, mine-clearing shield, mine plow, protective device, crane, lifting device, towing device, or winch. These various configurations can improve the vehicle's functionality. Depending on the requirements, different types of attachments can be connected to the vehicle to further expand its capabilities. Other configurations of the attachment are also possible.

[0048] It has proven particularly advantageous if the vehicle is a military land vehicle, especially a bridge-laying vehicle. Such vehicles are used to transport temporary bridges and then deploy them at the designated location. The bridges can then span an obstacle, such as a gorge or a river, and allow passage. Since considerable forces and torques act on the vehicle during bridge deployment, these bridge-laying vehicles are often equipped with an attachment designed as a support shield, which ensures sufficient stability. The support shield allows the vehicle to be braced against the ground during bridge deployment, thus guaranteeing a reliable installation process.

[0049] Further details and advantages of the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to schematic drawings of an exemplary embodiment. These drawings show: Fig. 1 a sectional view through a vehicle with an attachment in a lowered position and a protective device; Fig. 2 a perspective oblique view according to Fig. 1 Fig. 3 a sectional view through a vehicle with an attachment in a raised position and a protective device; Fig. 4 a perspective oblique view according to Fig. 3 .

[0050] In the presentation of the Fig. 1 A military vehicle 10 is shown, which can brace itself against the ground using an attachment 20 designed as a support shield. The attachment 20 is arranged at the front of the vehicle 10 and is in the position shown. Fig. 1in contact with the ground, so that in this position the vehicle 10 can brace itself against the ground via the attachment 20.

[0051] To move the attachment 20 up and down or swivel it, it has a lifting cylinder designed as a hydraulic cylinder 21 and a swivel arm 22, both of which are articulated to the vehicle 10. When the hydraulic cylinder 21 is extended, the attachment 20 moves downwards and is rotated about the pivot point of the swivel arm 22 located on the vehicle 10, as shown in the illustration of the Fig. 1 This can be seen. In order to supply the hydraulic cylinder 21 of the attachment 20 with the appropriate hydraulic fluid, it is connected to the hydraulic circuit of the vehicle 10 via two lines 30.

[0052] The two hydraulic lines 30 run along the upper front of the vehicle 10 and are therefore in a very exposed position. Ballistic fire can thus easily damage or destroy the lines 30, which in the worst case can render the attachment 20 immobile. If the attachment 20 is in a lowered position, the vehicle 10 may even become unmaneuverable after the lines 30 are destroyed. A protective device 1 is therefore provided to protect the lines 30; this device will be described in more detail below.

[0053] The protective device 1 has a protective element 2, which consists of three protective segments 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 arranged one behind the other. The first protective segment 2.1 is designed as an end protective segment and is firmly connected to the vehicle 10 via a connection point 3, as shown in the illustration of the Fig. 2 can be seen.

[0054] The third protective segment 2.3 is also designed as an end protective segment and is connected to the attachment 20 or the hydraulic cylinder 21 via a connection point 3 with several screw connections. When the attachment 20 or the hydraulic cylinder 21 moves relative to the vehicle 10, the third protective segment 2.3 moves together with the hydraulic cylinder 21.

[0055] An intermediate protection segment 2.2 is provided between the two end protection segments 2.1 and 2.3, which, together with the other two protection segments 2.1 and 2.3, forms a protective channel 4 through which the hydraulic lines 30 can extend. The protection segments 2.1, 2.2, and 2.3 each have a U-shaped cross-section, as can also be seen in the perspective view of the Fig. 2This shape allows the protective segments 2.1, 2.2, and 2.3 to protect the lines 30 not only from the front, i.e., in the direction of travel of the vehicle 10, but also to provide ballistic side protection for the lines 30. Since the lines 30 run on the surface of the vehicle 10 and the protective element is designed as a downward-opening, in particular U-shaped, tube that can be placed on the surface of the vehicle 10, thus covering the lines 30, they are protected from all sides. Therefore, the lines 30 are only visible in the sectional views according to the Fig. 1 and 3 , but not in the perspective views according to the Fig. 2 and 4 , to recognize.

[0056] As described above, the attachment 20 can be moved relative to the vehicle 10, performing both linear and pivoting movements. Therefore, in order for the protective device 1 to protect the lines 30 regardless of the position or movement of the attachment 20, the protective element 2, or the individual protective segments 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, must allow for corresponding movement of the attachment 20. The protective element 2 must thus permit both changes in length and angle to ensure a consistent level of protection for the hydraulic lines 30.

[0057] The first protective segment 2.1 is fixedly connected to the vehicle 10 and has a guide-type insertion recess 2.11. The second protective segment 2.2, designed as an intermediate protective segment, has an insertion side 2.12 through which it can be inserted into the first protective segment 2.1 or into the insertion recess 2.11. The first protective segment 2.1 is slightly wider and also slightly taller than the second protective segment 2.2, so that they can be easily inserted into one another. The corresponding linear movement of the second protective segment 2.2 relative to the first protective segment 2.1 thus allows for a change in the length of the protective element 2. In the illustrations of the Fig. 1 and 2 The second protective segment 2.2 is pulled out from the first protective segment 2.1, so that the protective segment 2 in this extended position is significantly longer than in the retracted position, which is shown in the Fig. 3 and 4is shown.

[0058] In the nested position, the two protective segments 2.1, 2.2 are essentially parallel to each other and thus offer double protection for the lines 30 located between the two protective segments 2.1, 2.2 and the surface of the vehicle 10. This is because an incoming projectile must then penetrate both protective segments 2.1, 2.2 before it can reach the line 30, as is the case in the Fig. 3 This is evident. The first protective segment 2.1 has approximately the same length as the second protective segment 2.2, so that the latter can essentially be completely inserted into the first protective segment 2.1. Consequently, the second protective segment 2.2 is in the Fig. 4 They are almost unrecognizable.

[0059] On the opposite side, the guard segment 2.2 is pivotally connected to the third guard segment 2.3. The third guard segment 2.3, together with the attachment 20 or the hydraulic cylinder 21, can thus be pivoted relative to the vehicle 10 as well as relative to the second guard segment 2.1. To enable this pivoting movement, a joint 5 is provided between the second guard segment 2.2 and the third guard segment 2.3, as is the case, for example, in the Fig. 1 and 3 can be seen.

[0060] The third protective segment 2.3 features a joint guard 5.1, designed like a hood and extending over the joint axis. This joint guard 5.1 ensures, on the one hand, that the joint 5 remains intact even under ballistic impact, and on the other hand, it also ensures a consistent level of protection for the hydraulic lines 30, so that they remain reliably protected even when the two protective segments 2.2 and 2.3 are pivoted relative to each other.

[0061] Since the joint protector 5.1 protrudes slightly upwards, as is the case, for example, in the Fig. 1 As can be seen, the first protective segment 2.1 has a recess 2.12. This allows the second protective segment 2.2 to be pushed as far as possible into the first protective segment 2.1. In this recess, the Fig. 4 In the inserted position shown, the joint guard 5.1 then lies in the recess 2.12 of the first guard segment 2.1.

[0062] From a structural point of view, the third guard segment 2.3 is narrower than the first and second guard segments 2.1 and 2.2. This is because the third guard segment 2.3 is connected to the also relatively narrow hydraulic cylinder 21, and guard segment 2.3 also provides some lateral support for the lines 30. As further shown in the Fig. 2 and 4 As can be seen, the third protective segment 2.3 has a wedge shape, with the front wedge surface running essentially parallel to the front of the vehicle in the raised position of the attachment 20.

[0063] Even though only three protective segments 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 are connected in the exemplary embodiment, it is nevertheless possible to arrange several protective segments in a row. The individual protective segments can be connected to adjacent protective segments linearly, in the sense that the first protective segment 2.1 connects to the second protective segment 2.2, and / or pivotally, in the sense that the second protective segment 2.2 connects to the third protective segment 2.3. Typically, some protective segments are connected to adjacent protective segments linearly, and other protective segments are connected to adjacent protective segments pivotally.Whether a pivotable connection, a linearly movable connection or both a pivotable and a linearly movable connection is provided between two protective segments may depend on the geometric conditions of the vehicle 10 and the design of the attachment 20 as well as the movement possibilities of the attachment 20. Reference symbol:

[0064] 1 Protective device 2 Protective element 2.1 First protective segment 2.11 Insertion recess 2.12 Recess 2.2 Second protective segment 2.21 Insertion side 2.3 Third protective segment 3 Connection point 4 Protective channel 5 Joint 5.1 Joint guard 10 Object / Vehicle 20 Object / Attachment 30 Element / Line

Claims

1. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) which is coupled to the vehicle (10) and the attachment (20), and a protective device (1) for protecting the element (30), which is coupled to two objects (10, 20) that can move relative to each other, namely the vehicle (10) and the attachment (20) arranged to be movable relative to the vehicle (10), with a protective element (2) for protecting the element (30) from ballistic threats, wherein the protective element (2) can be connected to the vehicle (10) and the attachment (20) via connection points (3), wherein the protective element (2) has several movably interconnected protective segments (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) which form a protective channel (4) open on one side.

2. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) according to claim 1, characterised in that the channel opening extends in the longitudinal direction of the protective element (2).

3. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterised in that the protective element (2) is designed to be adjustable in length.

4. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the protective element (2) is extendable.

5. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least two protective segments (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) overlap at least partially.

6. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the protective segments (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) are made of armoured steel.

7. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the protective segments (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) are U-shaped.

8. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the protective segments (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) are designed as intermediate protective segments (2.2) or as end protective segments (2.1, 2.3), wherein an end protective segment (2.1, 2.3) is provided at each end of the protective element (2) and one or more intermediate protective segments (2.2) are provided between them.

9. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a protective segment (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) is connected on one side in a linearly movable manner to an adjacent protective segment (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) and on the other side in a pivotally movable manner via a joint (5) to another adjacent protective segment (2.1, 2.2, 2.3).

10. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) according to one of claims 8 or 9, characterised in that at least one connection point (3) is arranged on each end protective segment (2.1, 2.3).

11. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the protective element (2) can be firmly connected to at least one object (10, 20) via the connection points (3).

12. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the element (30) is designed as a line, in particular as an electrical line, as a hydraulic line or as a pneumatic line, as a lifting cylinder, in particular as a hydraulic cylinder, or as a link rod.

13. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the attachment (20) is designed as a support shield, a mine clearance shield, a mine plough, a protective device, a crane, a lifting device, a towing device or a cable winch.

14. Vehicle with an attachment (20) and an element (30) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the vehicle (10) is designed as a military land vehicle, in particular as a bridge-laying vehicle.