MODULAR STRAIGHTENING SYSTEM

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a modular straightening system.

[0002] Targeting platforms for weapon systems are offered in various forms on the market. The existing systems can be divided into various categories such as design, size, effectors, protection level or even application. For example, a typical targeting platform may be designed for use on or with a vehicle, with use being restricted to a predefined payload / payload combination. In another example, a targeting system may be intended for stationary operation on the ground. This means that targeting platforms are in most cases designed and optimized for the use of individual defined effectors and / or sensors, as well as for the type of use, i.e. portable, stationary or vehicle-mounted. The existing systems can therefore practically only be used within the intended scope, with adaptation of the operational scenarios typically not being provided for.However, greater flexibility in application would sometimes be desirable.

[0003] Modular and portable weapon systems are sometimes proposed. For example, US Pat. No. 9,170,075 B2 describes a modular handheld laser weapon that is functionally divided into several interconnected modules, including a laser module for generating a pulsed or continuous laser beam, a telescope module for focusing the laser beam, a power module with a supercapacitor for rapidly providing laser energy, and a charging module for recharging the power module.

[0004] RU 2 725 942 C1 describes a modular robot platform whose individual components are designed to be carried by a person.

[0005] US 10 900 755 B1 also attempts to overcome the limitations caused by weight, power consumption and thermal regulation requirements in order to enable a weapons-grade laser generation system that is light enough to be carried, at least in part, by one or more people.

[0006] Against this background, the present invention is based on the object of finding versatile, quickly adaptable, and at the same time, as mobile as possible solutions for weapon-carrying aiming platforms. According to the invention, this object is achieved by a modular aiming system having the features of patent claim 1.

[0007] Accordingly, a modular aiming system is provided. The modular aiming system comprises a plurality of effector modules, each of which is configured to act on a target, each effector module being assigned an effector type along with associated functional options, the effector module comprising a weapon and / or an air defense device; a aiming module configured to selectively hold one of the effector modules and aim it at the target; a carrier module configured to support the aiming module on a structure, on a vehicle, and / or on a surface, the effector modules, the aiming module, and the carrier module each being configured as individual components wearable by a person, which are configured to be repeatedly detachably mounted to one another via respective module interfaces;and an operating device which is designed to be coupled to the aiming module by means of a data interface for controlling the effector module, wherein the operating device is designed to recognize the effector type of the effector module held by the aiming module via the data interface and to enable the associated functional options for an operator; wherein the operating device is designed to recognize the effector type of the effector module held by the aiming module via the data interface and to enable the associated functional options for an operator; wherein the carrier module is designed for stationary use as a setup device via which the modular aiming system can be placed on a surface; or wherein the carrier module is designed as a platform adapter via which the modular aiming system can be repeatedly and detachably mounted on a structure and / or on a vehicle.

[0008] One idea underlying the present invention is to provide a lightweight, mobile aiming system that can be disassembled into several parts and thus carried by several people, similar to a dismounted "armored squad," e.g., with 2 to 4 men who are transported in the field by vehicle and then operate with their equipment within a limited radius of a few kilometers around the vehicle. The system can be divided or disassembled in such a way that it can be transported as conveniently as possible by the operators, e.g., as a backpack or in a rucksack. The modules, which together form the operational aiming system, can be detached from and connected to one another via the interfaces.

[0009] For example, the alignment system can be installed on the ground at the specific location by attaching the individual modules to one another via interfaces. In particular, mechanical interfaces and / or mounting systems that are as simple and quick to operate as possible can be used, such as plug-in and / or locking systems, quick-release fasteners, rail systems, etc. Electrical connection can be established, for example, via spring contact pins, slip rings, or even contactless via induction.

[0010] The modular approach described here opens up a multitude of possible combinations and thus allows for rapid adaptation to the current situation or the current situational picture, in particular by selecting and configuring the respective effector module accordingly. The possible applications cover all uses, from stationary applications such as warehouse protection with missile defense to mobile applications on various vehicles (including manned or unmanned aircraft, ships, etc.). The effector modules can be quickly and flexibly exchanged and combined, allowing the system to be optimally adapted to the current combat situation at any time. By standardizing the interfaces used and offering a wide range of modules in the form of a modular system, any variant can be derived for any platform.As a result, armed forces, for example, can be provided with a tool that, thanks to its high degree of modularity, allows for rapid adaptation to changing environmental conditions. The use of easy-to-use interfaces and the low weight of the main components, which can be designed accordingly robustly and compactly, allows the alignment system to be deployed very easily and quickly.

[0011] Operation can be manual or computer-assisted. For example, the system can be remotely controlled using an input device via a wireless network. The control unit can comprise a laptop, tablet, or other mobile device suitable for a military environment. Alternatively, a physical data line can be used as an interface. In principle, a vehicle-mounted variant also provides for the control unit to be (permanently) integrated into the vehicle, while the aiming system can be detachably mounted on it.

[0012] According to a further development, the portable individual components can each have a net weight of less than 25 kg.

[0013] The straightening system, with a single module weight of less than approximately 25 kg, can be disassembled into suitably sized modules (e.g., 20 kg, 15 kg, 10 kg, or even just 5 kg). Depending on the design and size, these modules can be transported comfortably and without the need for tools by 2-4 people within a certain range of motion around a starting point. The system is fundamentally divided into three modules: an effector, a straightening unit, and a support structure, possibly with a separate, also modular operating device. Optional additional modules include, for example, a power source and / or a cooling system.

[0014] According to a further development, the operating device can be a portable computer which can be coupled to the straightening module via a wired and / or wireless data interface.

[0015] The aiming system can preferably be controlled remotely via an operating device. The operating device can be a laptop, tablet, or similar mobile device suitable for a military environment with which the aiming system can be operated. This operating device can have physical or virtual buttons and be connected to the aiming system via cable (data, power) or wirelessly using suitable radio standards. An optical connection via laser or light pulses is also conceivable. Optionally, complete remote access can be established from a base (field camp, vehicle), which can give approval for engagement and issue the corresponding releases. A particular advantage of the system can be achieved through this type of decentralization in conjunction with multiple aiming platforms. The user has the option of monitoring / controlling the system(s) from a safe distance.The systems can be controlled both via wired and contactless, encrypted communication channels. This also means that not only the effector kit but also, advantageously, the control unit can be quickly replaced.

[0016] It is understood that, in alternative designs, the control device can also be permanently integrated into a vehicle or structure. Using a control and display device already installed in the respective vehicle offers the advantage that it is already designed for the respective environment and prevailing requirements. For direct field application, however, a modular, portable solution may be more appropriate (ergonomic aspects, power supply, weight, handling).

[0017] According to a further development, the effector module may comprise at least one of the following: a target marking device; a target illumination device; a target tracking device and a sensor device or the like.

[0018] An effector kit can, for example, include an optical component and an effector, such as a weapon. These components can be selected in advance of a mission so that all performance data is tailored to the specific application. By combining the platform's own vision system and effector, any deployment errors from external participants do not need to be considered or adjusted. The installed effector kit can be recognized using the NGVA standard, for example, whereupon the options available for the effector kit are automatically enabled in the control unit.

[0019] For example, a combined use of the following payloads on such effector modules is conceivable: Tube weapons, LFK (ground-to-ground, ground-to-air), laser weapons, designator, target illuminator, night vision camera, laser rangefinder, directional microphones, TV camera, close-range surveillance 360° camera, smoke and fog launcher, light source, sonic weapon.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the invention, the carrier module for stationary use is designed as a mounting device, via which the modular straightening system can be placed on a surface.

[0021] The installation device can, for example, be designed with several legs, as a stand, tripod or base or similar, via which the laser weapon system can be quickly set up after being transported to the site of use and is immediately ready for use.

[0022] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the carrier module is designed as a platform adapter, via which the modular alignment system can be repeatedly detachably mounted on a structure and / or on a vehicle.

[0023] This interface can, for example, be designed in such a way that the straightening unit can be quickly and removably coupled to existing vehicles or structures. On the one hand, the interface can be purely mechanical, e.g. using various clamping, screwing or tensioning options. On the other hand, magnetic or electromagnetic solutions are also provided (e.g. dial gauge holder, in which a switch is switched using magnetic force). In addition, data and power can be transmitted via spring contacts (pogo pins). An interface for the transfer of media such as electrical current, air and / or coolant is also conceivable. Such an interface can also be created from the system to a vehicle or a structure. In addition to a mechanical interface, an electrical interface can also be integrated into a vehicle.This makes it possible to use the vehicle-side peripherals such as power supply, control devices and data interfaces for the operation of the alignment platform.

[0024] In principle, this interface, as well as all other system interfaces, can be operated with (contactless) slip rings. Furthermore, signal data can also be transmitted contactlessly via induction, which offers advantages for fast coupling of the modules, as mechanical connections can be reduced to a minimum. Additional military interfaces, such as the standardized Picatinny rail, can be attached to the system components to attach various additional devices and equipment (e.g., rangefinders, lighting) or to ensure a connection to a military BUS system.

[0025] According to a further development, the alignment system can comprise a control device which exchanges control commands between the effector module and the operating device.

[0026] The control unit can be integrated, in particular, into the aiming module as a central control and regulation instance. It processes all incoming commands and forwards the permissible / necessary control commands for the adapted payload of the effector module, for example, to the system's actuators, which can be located in the aiming module and / or the carrier module. A communication standard can be used for communication between the individual effector module components and the control unit. Various military standards enable the installed effector component to be recognized during the system's assembly / configuration. This allows motor parameters, target speeds, or acceleration loads to be initiated in the control unit.

[0027] In addition to the independent detection of installed components and the associated monitoring and control of all incoming signals, this unit can also handle security aspects. The electronics architecture, for example, enables "fire by software."

[0028] According to a further development, the straightening system can further comprise a communication device for connecting the modular straightening system to a wireless control network.

[0029] While the simplest and most robust option against interference is a wired connection (i.e., a simple one-to-one connection between the operator and the alignment system), more complex remote control of the system also offers advantages for potential applications. In this case, however, unauthorized interventions by unauthorized persons should be detected and blocked, e.g., by pre-determining participants in the communication chain.

[0030] In addition to direct communication with the operator, networking between various participants in the operational area is also conceivable. For this purpose, a communication network (mesh / cloud) can be established in which the responsibilities of the participants are defined. This networking offers the advantage that if one control participant fails, other participants (in a predefined order) can take over the tasks of the control system. This offers the advantage that if a control station fails, it is possible to transfer control to confirmed participants in the network, thus compensating for technical failures.

[0031] This ultimately decentralizes communications. By using cloud-based control, multiple predefined participants can access and retrieve information from a variety of targeting systems. This new approach to distributed information and control creates unprecedented strategic possibilities for operational planning and execution. Due to the modularity and adaptability of the system, the described networking extends beyond a specific branch of service and can therefore contribute to linking deployed armed forces in an interdisciplinary manner.

[0032] According to a further development, the straightening system can further comprise an integrated electrical energy storage device which is designed to provide electrical energy in a rechargeable manner for the straightening system.

[0033] The energy storage device or energy source can be tailored to the specific requirements of the application. For a mobile, portable system, batteries (lithium polymer, LiFePo4), solid-state batteries, and / or fuel cells, which have a high energy density, are advantageous. The energy source can be distributed throughout the entire system depending on the ideal weight distribution, but does not necessarily have to be permanently installed. In particular, the energy source can also be designed as a replaceable one or more individual modules.

[0034] Thermal batteries are also a viable alternative to conventional batteries. These batteries can be triggered on demand and provide a short-term power and voltage supply. If an external power supply (household or vehicle electrical system) is available, this can of course be used directly or to charge the batteries.

[0035] To further increase self-sufficiency, the system can optionally be equipped with a power generator. Examples include silenced power generators (e.g., 2-stroke or 4-stroke combustion engines), Stirling engine-based power generators, and solar panels. When used in close proximity to external power generators (vehicle applications, storage protection), this can be directly incorporated into the usage concept.

[0036] According to a further development, the operating device can be designed with selectable operating profiles for the automatic control of the effector module, which define predefined parameters and / or control sequences of the effector module.

[0037] For example, it may be planned to select predefined profiles for the combat scenario, which control parameters of an effective laser beam, such as a laser weapon (pulses, intensities, focus, etc.). Likewise, various "cutting patterns" can be selected or drawn on a screen (e.g., using a finger or stylus on a touchscreen), which are then executed by the alignment system or a fine alignment. This allows holes or cutouts, for example, to be created. Likewise, profiles can be implemented and "recorded" by the user themselves. One could imagine, for example, that these profiles (or capabilities) could be developed and acquired separately depending on the customer's equipment and requirements, and then implemented and selected. This could be supplemented by implementations from the field of machine learning. It is conceivable that, for example,The material to be cut is identified using hyperspectral imaging, and the appropriate "profile" can be selected from a stored material database or automatically selected. Another mode could be a fully automatic mode, in which the system independently combats objects that enter a predefined target area.

[0038] According to a further development, the alignment module and / or the carrier module can comprise an electromechanical actuator for aligning the effector module along at least one pivot axis and / or one rotation axis.

[0039] To keep the weight of the individual units for the portable components as low as possible (e.g., less than 25 kg), an azimuth drive, for example, can be placed in the carrier module. Different drive units (motor-gearbox units) can also be installed to meet different operational requirements.

[0040] The aiming module's primary task is to direct sensors and / or effectors at a target. Depending on the application, the aiming module can either be used for coarse aiming (e.g., for missile applications, for locking onto targets) or for precise, fine aiming (e.g., for a cannon weapon or for aligning a laser effector). This can be achieved, for example, by using electromagnetic support or a corresponding drive / actuator in the aiming module to enable movements in the elevation and / or azimuth directions. The actuators can position the respective axis within a specific angular range and then direct the sensor and / or effector of the effector module at the desired target.

[0041] Direct drives and / or motor / gearbox combinations can be used as actuators. Among other things, backlash-free and energy-efficient drives such as BLDC motors can be combined with a ball screw, a cycloid, and / or stepper gears, corresponding to "harmonic drive" gears, coupling gears, and traction drive systems such as synchronous belts or friction wheel solutions. The actuators can be equipped with appropriate encoders on the drive side, and with suitable position and angle measuring devices on the output side. For safety reasons, combined solutions can also be used in the system, or additional sensors can be deployed to calculate deformations, increase accuracy, or increase redundancy.

[0042] It goes without saying that alternative variants with lower directional power and significantly simplified actuators are also possible, e.g. a portable tripod variant to keep the weight as low as possible.

[0043] The above embodiments and developments can be combined with one another as desired, where appropriate. Further possible embodiments, developments, and implementations of the invention also include combinations of features of the invention not explicitly mentioned above or described below with respect to the exemplary embodiments. In particular, those skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the present invention.

[0044] The present invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiment shown in the schematic figure. It shows: Fig. 1 schematic view of a modular straightening system according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 schematic view of a concrete assembled version of the straightening system from Fig. 1; and Fig. 3 schematic view of another concrete assembled version of the straightening system from Fig. 1 .

[0045] The accompanying figures are intended to provide a further understanding of embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, in conjunction with the description, serve to explain principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the noted advantages will be apparent upon consideration of the drawings. Elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale relative to one another.

[0046] In the figures of the drawing, identical, functionally identical and acting elements, features and components are provided with the same reference symbols, unless otherwise stated.

[0047] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a modular straightening system 10 according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 2 and 3show schematic views of specific assembled versions of the straightening system from Fig. 1 .

[0048] The alignment system 10 provides a particularly light and mobile, yet versatile system, with the help of which a wide variety of effector types can be attached and used on the ground, on structures and / or on vehicles (cf. vehicle 9 in Fig. 2 ). The aiming system 10 is designed to be disassembled into several modules so that, for example, several people can carry them to the site of use, e.g., in, on, and / or as a backpack, and then mount them on the ground, on a structure, and / or on a vehicle. The individual modules can, for example, weigh less than approximately 25 kg. The system 10 can then be assembled into a functioning effector system and triggered at the selected position.

[0049] Fig. 1 is an abstract, general representation of the system 10, illustrating that the system can be broken down into three basic module types. First, the system 10 comprises different effector modules 1, each of which is designed to detect and / or act on a target. Each effector module 1 is assigned an effector type along with associated functional options.

[0050] Such effector modules 1 can comprise weapons, including laser weapons, but also air defense systems or, for example, other devices for emitting missiles. Furthermore, vision systems, for example in the form of sensor units, can also be provided. The latter can also be designed in a modular and adaptable manner, whereby coordinated requirements can be covered by means of various expansion stages of the effector kits: e.g., target detection, target assignment, target marking, target tracking, illumination, and / or observation. Defensive devices used against incoming missiles, e.g., smoke grenade launchers, can also be used in combination.

[0051] The system further comprises a targeting module 2, which is designed to selectively hold one of the effector modules 1 and align it with the target. The targeting module 2 thus has the task of holding the effector module 1 and directing its sensors and / or effectors toward a target so that it can be acted upon.

[0052] As a third basic module type, the system 10 comprises different carrier modules 3, which are designed to carry the aiming module 2 on a structure, on a vehicle 9 and / or on a surface. The carrier modules 3 provide the mechanical and, if necessary, electrical interface to the aiming system. Depending on the application, different carrier modules 3 can be used. For stationary use, for example, a standalone unit (e.g., tripod) that can be used independently of other components is suitable. Mobile applications rely on vehicle-specific platform adapters that can be adapted to the carrier vehicle. This allows the specific requirements of the respective vehicle type to be influenced.

[0053] These three basic module types, i.e. the effector modules 1, the directional module 2 and the carrier modules 3, are each designed as portable individual components which can be repeatedly and detachably mounted to one another via respective module interfaces.

[0054] The interfaces can advantageously be designed in such a way that the individual components can be quickly and removably coupled to one another and, if necessary, to a vehicle or structure. In general, the interfaces can be purely mechanical using various plug-in, snap-in, clamping, screwing, or tensioning options or the like. Magnetic or electromagnetic solutions are also possible, i.e. electrical interfaces can be provided in addition to mechanical ones. Furthermore, not only power but also data can be transmitted, for example via spring contacts (pogo pins). This makes it possible to connect and use the power supply, operating devices, and data interfaces for operating the alignment platform. An interface for transferring media such as air and / or coolant is also conceivable.

[0055] The alignment module 2 can be attached to the carrier module 3 in a way that is easy to separate, for example using quick-release fasteners, e.g. to enable installation on a vehicle as quickly as possible. The interface transfer in the area of ​​the rotation axes can generally be advantageous using (contactless) slip rings, as this allows an unlimited number of revolutions to be achieved. Induction and the use of optical signals for data are particularly suitable for contactless transmission. Contactless transmission in particular offers further advantages in terms of handling and changeover speed when changing between different modules, as mechanical plug connections can be largely dispensed with. The special alignment of the components to one another can therefore be reduced to a minimum during assembly.

[0056] Additional military interfaces such as the standardized Picatinny rail can be attached to the aiming module 2 to attach additional components (e.g. rangefinder, lighting, jammer, etc.) or to ensure a connection to a military BUS system.

[0057] The alignment system 10 further comprises an operating device 4, which is designed to be coupled to the alignment module 2 via a data interface 5 for controlling the effector module 1 held by the alignment module 2 by an operator. The operating device 4 is designed to recognize the effector type of the effector module 1 held by the alignment module 2 via the data interface 5 and to enable the associated functional options for the operator. It is thus possible to equip the alignment module 2 with various pre-assembled effector modules 1, possibly even at the site of use, and subsequently to install this structure on the ground or on a vehicle via a carrier module 3, which is also to be selected. The operating device 4 then automatically recognizes the currently selected configuration of the system 10 and provides corresponding control options for an operator.

[0058] The aiming module 2 serves as a central control unit, which includes, among other things, a control device 6 (controller) that exchanges control commands between the effector module 1 and the operating device 4 (cf. Fig. 2 and 3 ). Furthermore, the straightening system 2 may optionally have a communication device 7 for connecting the modular straightening system 10 to a wireless control network 8. The required electrical energy can be supplied, for example, by an integrated electrical energy storage device 14, which is designed to provide electrical energy in a rechargeable manner for the straightening system 10. In the case of installation on a vehicle, the electrical power can of course be obtained directly from the vehicle.

[0059] Electromechanical actuators 15a, 15b can be provided both in the alignment module 2 and in the carrier module 3 for aligning the effector module 1, e.g. along at least one pivot axis 11 and / or rotation axis 12 (cf. Fig. 2 and 3 ). For example, a first actuator 15a in the aiming module 2 can cause a movement in the elevation direction, while a second actuator 15b in the carrier module 3 drives a movement in the azimuth direction. By splitting the actuators into different modules in this way, the weight of the individual modules can be kept low.

[0060] With reference to Fig. 2 and 3 Two exemplary embodiments are explained in detail below.

[0061] In Fig. 2The carrier module 3 is designed as a platform adapter and couples the system 10 to a vehicle 9. In this example, a weapon is used as the effector module 1. The greatest advantages in this example are the rapid vehicle equipping and the flexible adaptation of the payload. An example of a possible application for the system would be its combination with an UGV (Unmanned Ground Vehicle), which is used for defusing or eliminating IEDs or similar. This application allows the user to monitor and control all functions of the targeting system from a safe distance via remote control.

[0062] In this case, the operating device 4 can, for example, be a computer permanently integrated into the vehicle 9, which can be connected to the aiming module 2 and the control device 6 located thereon via a data line 5 (the data line 5 can, for example, pass through the carrier module 3 together with an electrical supply and, if necessary, further lines).

[0063] The carrier module 3 installed on the vehicle 9 can, for example, contain an actuator 15b as an azimuth drive unit. This can, if necessary, be designed to be more powerful than in the case of a stationary system, since, on the one hand, greater disruptive forces, caused by vibrations and shocks, act on the system 10 during vehicle-side use, and, on the other hand, higher performance is necessary when used while driving. Such higher load requirements can also result in an increase in the module weight, in particular of the carrier module 3. However, since this design of the carrier module 3 is intended exclusively for operation on the vehicle 9, this is not to be seen as a disadvantage. Pivoting in the elevation direction can be implemented via a corresponding actuator 15a in the directional module 2 (see arrows in Fig. 2 ).

[0064] In the embodiment of the Fig. 3The system 10 stands on the ground, with the carrier module 3 serving as a support device. The effector module 1 can, for example, be a laser weapon including an illumination laser.

[0065] In this variant, the aiming system 10 can, for example, be transported and positioned by a squad. The system 10 can be used for rapid, discreet deployments by special units (reconnaissance, surveillance, sabotage, defense). Operation can, for example, be carried out via a robust laptop as the operating device 4 from a safe distance (either via a wired or wireless interface 5, see Fig. 3 ).

[0066] In this case, the necessary power supply can be regulated in the form of a rechargeable energy storage device 14, e.g., a battery. Depending on the application, various storage sizes can be provided in appropriate designs. To ensure low weight but also a long service life, the payload combinations of the effector module 1, which are appropriate for portable use, can be adapted accordingly.

[0067] In principle, the aiming system 10 can also be used in this case in conjunction with a motorized unit, from which the system 10 is transported to the site of deployment and deployed there (to facilitate logistics). In principle, observation and / or combat operations can also be carried out directly from a vehicle. Alternatively, the aiming system 10 can be installed in an exposed position, e.g., as a defensive position to protect units. The immediate proximity to a motorized unit ensures a constant supply of power. Furthermore, if necessary, existing peripherals (cooling, communications, operating and display devices) can also be used by a vehicle.

[0068] In addition to a user interface (HMI), the control unit 4 can display or offer a battery indicator, an image of the aiming optics, a system status, etc. In particular, suitable working and effective profiles can be selected. For example, predefined profiles can be selected for the respective combat scenario, which control parameters of the effective laser beam such as pulses, intensities, focus, etc. Furthermore, various "cutting patterns" can be selected or drawn, which are then executed by the aiming system 10. Furthermore, profiles can also be implemented and "recorded" by the user themselves.

[0069] Another mode could be a fully automatic mode in which the system 10 independently combats objects that enter a previously defined target area.

[0070] Furthermore, the system 10 can interact via the (wireless) data interface 5, for example, with a command post 13 or other entities, which can also assume control of the system 10 if necessary. In addition to direct communication with the operator, a network of various such targeting systems 10 in the operational area is also conceivable. Such networking offers the advantage that if one control participant fails, other participants can assume control of the targeting system 10, i.e., it is possible to transfer control to confirmed network participants in order to compensate for technical failures, for example.

[0071] In the foregoing detailed description, various features have been combined into one or more examples for clarity of illustration. It should be understood, however, that the above description is merely illustrative and not restrictive. It is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents of the various features and embodiments. Many other examples will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art based on their skill in the art in light of the above description.

[0072] The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best illustrate the principles underlying the invention and their possible practical applications. This will enable those skilled in the art to optimally modify and utilize the invention and its various embodiments with respect to the intended purpose. In the claims and the description, the terms "including" and "having" are used as neutral language terms for the corresponding term "comprising." Furthermore, the use of the terms "a," "an," and "an" is not intended to exclude a plurality of such described features and components. List of reference symbols

[0073] 1Effector module 2Aiming module 3Carrier module 4Operating device 5Data interface 6Control device 7Communication device 8Control network 9Vehicle 10Aiming system 11Pivot axis 12Rotation axis 13Command post 14Electrical energy storage 15a,bElectromechanical actuator

Claims

1. Modular pointing system (10), having: a plurality of effector modules (1), which are respectively designed to act on a target, wherein each effector module (1) is associated with an effector type together with associated function options, wherein the effector module (1) comprises a weapon and / or an air defence device; a pointing module (2), which is designed to selectively hold one of the effector modules (1) and align it with the target; a support module (3), which is designed to support the pointing module (2) on a structure, on a vehicle (9) and / or on a base, wherein the effector modules (1), the pointing module (2) and the support module (3) are respectively designed as individual components that can be carried by a person which can be repeatedly detachably mounted to one another via respective module interfaces; and an operating device (4), which can be coupled by means of a data interface (5) to the pointing module (2) for controlling the effector module (1) respectively held by the pointing module (2), characterised in that the operating device (4) is designed to identify the effector type of the effector module (1) respectively held by the pointing module (2) via the data interface (5) and enable the associated function options for an operator; wherein the support module (3) is designed for stationary use as a set-up device via which the modular pointing system (10) can be set down on a base; or wherein the support module (3) is designed as a platform adapter, via which the modular pointing system (2) can be repeatedly detachably mounted on a structure and / or on a vehicle (9).

2. Modular pointing system (10) according to claim 1, wherein the individual portable components respectively weigh less than 25 kg.

3. Modular pointing system (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the operating device (4) is a portable computer, via which a wired and / or wireless data interface (5) can be coupled to the pointing module (2).

4. Modular pointing system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the effector module (1) comprises at least one of the following: a target marking device; a target illumination device; a target tracking device; a sensor device.

5. Modular pointing system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the pointing system (2) comprises a control device (6), which exchanges control commands between the effector module (1) and the operating device (4).

6. Modular pointing system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the pointing system (2) further has a communication device (7) for connecting the modular pointing system (10) to a wireless control network (8).

7. Modular pointing system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising: an integrated electrical energy storage device (14), which is designed to provide electrical energy in a rechargeable manner for the pointing system (10).

8. Modular pointing system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the operating device (4) is designed with selectable operating profiles for automatically controlling the effector module (1), which define predefined parameters and / or control sequences of the effector module (1).

9. Modular pointing system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the pointing module (2) and / or the support module (3) comprises an electromechanical actuator (15a, 15b) for aligning the effector module (1) along at least one pivot axis (11) and or one axis of rotation (12).