WEAPON SYSTEM

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a weapon system with a weapon according to the preamble of patent claim 1 and a method according to the preamble of patent claim 13.

[0002] Numerous weapon systems are known from the military sector, such as artillery systems or main battle tanks, which have a weapon, in particular a large-caliber tube weapon, to engage a specific target. Such weapon systems usually have a pointing device for aiming the weapon. By means of this pointing device the weapon is mounted on the weapon system in a weapon mount, often referred to as a weapon cradle, so that it can be directed both about a vertical azimuth axis and about a horizontal elevation axis. For aiming in elevation, shield trunnion mounts are generally used, in which the weapon barrel is mounted so that it can be directed around a shield trunnion extending along the elevation axis. In such shield trunnion mounts, the weapon barrel extends essentially in the direction of fire in front of the shield trunnion towards the muzzle.In the firing direction behind the shield trunnion, various other weapon components are arranged in such weapon systems, depending on the equipment, such as the breech end for feeding the ammunition, a barrel brake and recoil system.

[0003] In such weapon systems, the elevation aiming range of the weapon generally extends over a positive aiming range that is elevated relative to the horizontal, in order to engage targets with direct or indirect fire. Furthermore, the elevation aiming range can also extend over a negative aiming range that is inclined downward relative to the horizontal, sometimes referred to as weapon depression, for example, in order to engage targets located lower or close to the weapon from an elevated position on sloping terrain, etc.

[0004] In this context, it has proven disadvantageous that such weapon systems require a lot of space, even below the elevation axis, when the weapon is aimed in elevation due to the weapon components extending over a certain length behind the trunnion and the barrel recoil that occurs when the shot is fired, i.e. a movement of the weapon barrel against the direction of fire. This space requirement also increases with the size of the positive aiming range. In practice, this means that in main battle tank turrets, for example, the shield trunnion has to be positioned relatively high vertically above the turret floor in order to create sufficient space for the weapon components arranged behind the trunnion and the barrel recoil, even when the weapon barrel is pointed as upwards as possible.As a starting position for aiming such a weapon in the negative elevation range, the elevated position of the shield trunnion also proves to be disadvantageous, as this requires additional space behind the shield trunnion for the weapon components that are pivoted upwards when aiming in the negative elevation range. This can result in comparatively bulky turret designs, especially considering its rotational contour, and thus lower power densities of the weapon system.

[0005] In addition to these classic shield trunnion mounts, which have been widely used for several decades, there are also a few alternative aiming devices for barrel weapons that allow the weapons to be aimed along more than one elevation axis. For example, AT 15 795 U1 describes a weapon system with a barrel weapon that can be aimed along two spaced-apart elevation axes via an articulated linkage. A disadvantage of these weapon systems has proven to be the kinematically complex aiming movements of the weapon connected to the articulated linkage, which require complex control.

[0006] From WO 2018 / 073461 A1, a mortar supported on the ground with a weapon barrel that can be directed in elevation and is mounted via a pivot bearing and a loose bearing is known.

[0007] Against this background, the present invention sets itself the task of specifying a weapon system and a method for aiming a weapon in elevation, which are characterized by a high power density and, at the same time, simple control.

[0008] This object is achieved in a weapon system of the type mentioned above by the features of patent claim 1. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent subclaims.

[0009] The aiming device has a pivot bearing assigned to one elevation axis and a movable bearing assigned to the other elevation axis for supporting a weapon mount that accommodates the weapon. Such an arrangement with a pivot bearing and a movable bearing allows for simple and trouble-free aiming of the weapon in elevation in terms of control technology. The movable bearing assigned to one elevation axis can enable a relative movement of the weapon with respect to the associated elevation axis in the firing direction and, in particular, also a corresponding relative movement of the pivot bearing with respect to the movable bearing. Furthermore, such an arrangement enables several suitable starting positions for aiming the weapon in both the positive and negative elevation angle ranges, which differ due to different positions of the pivot bearing and / or the movable bearing in the vertical direction.This allows the installation space of the weapon system required for the aiming movements and the system-related barrel recoil to be reduced, thus achieving increased power density.

[0010] In an advantageous development of the invention, it is proposed that the floating bearing be arranged in front of the pivot bearing in the direction of fire of the weapon. Such an arrangement allows for advantageous aiming of the weapon in elevation. In an alternative arrangement, however, the floating bearing can also be arranged behind the pivot bearing in the direction of fire of the weapon, provided this proves advantageous for the operation of the aiming device of the weapon system.

[0011] In this context, it is further proposed that the floating bearing be arranged in a front area of ​​the weapon mount in the direction of fire of the weapon and / or that the articulated bearing be arranged in a rear area of ​​the weapon mount in the direction of fire of the weapon. Such an arrangement enables a defined mounting of the weapon mount that is advantageous from a mechanical point of view, with reliable force transmission via the articulated bearing, whereby the elevation can be adjusted precisely and with repeatable accuracy. In this context, however, the articulated bearing can also be arranged in a front area of ​​the weapon mount in the direction of fire of the weapon and / or the floating bearing in a rear area of ​​the weapon mount in the direction of fire of the weapon, should this prove advantageous for the respective application.

[0012] In an advantageous development of the invention, it is further proposed that the pivot bearing be arranged in the region of one of the rear weapon components of the weapon, in particular in the region of a rear end of the barrel braking and recoiling system in the firing direction of the weapon. Such an arrangement of the pivot bearing allows for easy aiming of the weapon in elevation. The pivot bearing also allows for reliable absorption of the firing reaction forces occurring in the area of ​​the barrel braking and recoiling system. Alternatively, it is also conceivable in this context to arrange the pivot bearing in the area of ​​the weapon barrel, if this should prove advantageous.

[0013] The pivot bearing and the floating bearing are arranged so that they can rotate along a path around the corresponding elevation axis. Such an arrangement enables simple and control-reliable elevation of the weapon in a small space. In particular, the rotatable arrangement of the pivot bearing and the floating bearing along a path around the corresponding elevation axis allows for both flexible and precise elevation adjustment. Furthermore, such an arrangement allows for an advantageously large aiming range, which can be adjusted via the aiming device.

[0014] In this context, it has proven advantageous if the radius of the orbit of the spherical bearing around one elevation alignment axis is essentially equal to the radius of the orbit of the floating bearing around the other elevation alignment axis. Such an arrangement has also proven advantageous with regard to robust and user-friendly adjustment of the alignment angle in elevation. Furthermore, such an arrangement of the orbits allows a particularly space-saving design of the alignment device, since the same space is required for both alignment devices, particularly in the vertical direction. However, to adapt the alignment range, it can also be advantageous if the radius of the orbit of the spherical bearing around one elevation alignment axis is different from the radius of the orbit of the floating bearing around the other elevation alignment axis.

[0015] In an advantageous development of the invention, it is proposed that the articulated bearing and / or the floating bearing are arranged to be rotatable about the associated elevation axes over an angular range that is less than 360°. Limiting the respective angular range simplifies the control of the straightening device. In this context, it may be particularly preferred that the angular range in which the articulated bearing and / or the floating bearing are arranged to be rotatable about the associated elevation axes is less than 180°, preferably less than 90°. By limiting the angular range in this way, a compact design can be achieved while simultaneously allowing simple control of the straightening device.

[0016] In this context, it is further proposed that the elevation axes for aiming the weapon be controlled independently of one another. Such independent control of the elevation axes increases the flexibility of the aiming device, since both elevation axes can be controlled either jointly or individually for aiming. In conjunction with the floating bearing, such an arrangement also allows the weapon to be aimed even if the control of one of the elevation axes fails. This degree of redundancy can further increase the performance of the weapon system.

[0017] From a design perspective, it is preferable for the articulated bearing to have at least two articulated bearing points between which the weapon mount is mounted, and / or for the floating bearing to have at least two floating bearing points between which the weapon mount is mounted. Mounting the weapon mount between two bearing points in this way has proven advantageous with regard to a robust, low-fault mounting of the weapon mount. Firing reaction forces can be diverted via the two bearing points and distributed symmetrically across both sides of the weapon.

[0018] A preferred embodiment provides that the aiming device has at least one pivoting element for aiming the weapon, which can be pivoted via at least one aiming drive. Such an arrangement enables rapid elevation adjustment of the weapon. In particular, the at least one pivoting element, which can be pivoted via the aiming drive, can be pivoted in such a way that the pivot bearing and / or the floating bearing are rotated along the orbit around the respective associated elevation axis. Such an aiming drive can be designed, for example, in the manner of a crank, piston, or eccentric drive.

[0019] From a design perspective, it has proven advantageous in this context if the aiming device has at least two pivoting elements for aiming the weapon, each pivotable via at least one aiming drive, each of which is assigned an elevation aiming axis. Such an arrangement enables particularly user-friendly, fast, and repeatable aiming of the weapon over a wide aiming range by pivoting the pivoting elements using the aiming drives.

[0020] In this context, it is further proposed that one of the pivoting elements extends between one elevation alignment axis and the articulated bearing and / or that another pivoting element extends between the other elevation alignment axis and the movable bearing. Such an arrangement makes it possible for the articulated bearing to be rotated about one elevation alignment axis by pivoting one pivoting element, and for the movable bearing to be rotated about the other elevation alignment axis by pivoting the other pivoting element. By pivoting the pivoting elements, the articulated bearing and / or the movable bearing can be rotated about the orbits around the elevation alignment axes. This results in advantageously user-friendly, easily controllable elevation alignment. The radial length of the pivoting elements can be the same. This makes it easy to create orbits of the same radius for the two bearing points.

[0021] With a view to a low-wear design of the aiming device, it is proposed that the pivoting elements be decoupled from the aiming drive. This design ensures that the firing reaction forces acting on the pivoting elements via the weapon are not transferred to the aiming drive. This can increase the service life of the aiming drive. In this context, it is further proposed that the pivoting elements be fixable in the pivot position set via the aiming drive in such a way that the firing reaction forces are not dissipated via the drive. In this case, the pivoting elements are located in the force flow and the aiming drives are outside the force flow.

[0022] From a design perspective, it has proven preferable for the pivot element to be a pivot rod or a pivot plate. Such a design of the pivot element as a pivot rod or pivot plate has proven advantageous with regard to a low-interference, easily controllable rotation of the floating bearing and / or the spherical bearings around the elevation axes.

[0023] It is also advantageous from a design perspective if a pivoting element designed as a pivoting disk is at least partially circular, in particular circular sector-shaped, with a radius. In this context, it is proposed that the pivoting element be circular sector-shaped, with the circular sector extending circumferentially over less than 180°, preferably less than 90°. This allows the aiming movements to be accelerated with the same aiming drives, which also allows the power density of the weapon system to be further increased.

[0024] In an advantageous development of the invention, it is proposed that the articulated bearing and / or the floating bearing be arranged on the outer circumference of the respective pivoting elements designed as swivel plates. Such an arrangement allows, in a particularly simple and robust manner, rotation of the articulated bearing and / or the floating bearing about the respectively assigned elevation alignment axis along the orbits by pivoting the respective pivoting elements designed as swivel plates. Furthermore, such an arrangement enables maximization of the alignment range adjustable via the alignment device.

[0025] In a structurally advantageous development of the invention, it is further proposed that the elevation alignment axes be arranged at a predetermined distance from the tower floor, wherein the distance from the tower floor corresponds to the length of the pivoting element designed as a pivot rod and / or the radius of the pivoting element designed as a pivoting disk. Such an arrangement enables maximization of the adjustable elevation angle while taking into account the available free space of the tower.

[0026] Furthermore, to achieve the aforementioned object, a method for elevating a weapon of a weapon system according to patent claim 13 is proposed. Such a method for elevating the weapon enables the construction of weapon systems with a high power density while simultaneously providing simple, error-free control of the aiming movements. Furthermore, the method for elevating a weapon via the rotation of the pivot bearing and the floating bearing in an orbit around the respective elevation aiming axis has proven to be particularly fast.

[0027] In connection with the method for elevating a weapon of a weapon system, it is further proposed that the weapon system be designed according to one or more of the features described above. This results in the advantages described in connection with the weapon system.

[0028] Further details and advantages of the invention are explained below with the aid of the accompanying drawings of two exemplary embodiments. In the drawings: Fig. 1 is a schematic, partial side view of a weapon system according to a first embodiment; Fig. 2 is a schematic plan view of the aiming device of the weapon system according to the illustration in Fig. 1 ; Fig. 3, 4 two further schematic, partial side views of the weapon system as shown in Fig. 1 in different elevation directions; Fig. 5a-e shows even more schematic views of a further embodiment of a weapon system with a weapon in different elevation directions, and Fig. 6a-b shows schematic views of two elevation axes.

[0029] The representations in the Fig. 1 to 6bshow a weapon system in various, partly fragmentary and partly highly schematic representations 1.

[0030] Weapon system 1 is a self-propelled weapon system 1 similar to a main battle tank. However, weapon system 1 can also be another military weapon system 1, such as an infantry fighting vehicle, an artillery system, an air defense system, or similar.

[0031] The weapon system 1 has a weapon 2, which in the present embodiment is designed as a tube weapon and is arranged on a turret 50 of the weapon system 1 designed as a battle tank.

[0032] The weapon 2 is arranged on the weapon turret 50 on the weapon system 1 so that it can be directed in azimuth and elevation. For directing the weapon 2 in azimuth, the turret 50 is rotatably mounted about the azimuth direction axis 8 running in the vertical direction via a turret pivot bearing 51, see. Fig. 1. For aiming the weapon 2 in elevation, ie for setting an elevation angle α extending between the firing direction S of the weapon 2 and the horizontal, the weapon system 1 has an aiming device 3 which has two elevation aiming axes 4, 5 arranged at a horizontal distance X from one another, cf. Fig. 3 .

[0033] The weapon system 1 is characterized by a high power density, i.e., it has a high weapon performance in a comparatively small installation space and thus a comparatively low system weight. Furthermore, the weapon system 1 is characterized by a simple, robust control of the aiming device 3 for aiming the weapon 2 in elevation. This will be explained below, first of all, with reference to the illustration in Fig. 1 explained in more detail.

[0034] The representation in Fig. 1shows the aiming device 3 for aiming the weapon 2 in elevation using an exemplary elevation angle α, which according to the illustration in Fig. 1in the upper, positive aiming range of the weapon 2, which is elevated relative to the horizontal. The aiming device 3 has the two elevation aiming axes 4, 5, which are arranged at a distance from one another on the same horizontal plane and extend essentially horizontally and parallel to the turret base 52. One of the elevation aiming axes 4 is arranged, as shown, in a rear region of the turret 50 in the azimuth direction, and the other elevation aiming axis 5 is arranged in a front region of the turret 50 in the azimuth direction. However, other arrangements of the elevation aiming axes 4, 5 relative to the turret 50 are also conceivable; for example, the elevation aiming axes 4, 5 can also extend on different horizontal planes if this should prove advantageous due to the other structural conditions of the weapon system 1.

[0035] Before the structure and function of the straightening device 3 for straightening in elevation is explained in detail, the illustrations in Fig. 1 and 2 the mounting of the weapon 2 on the aiming device 3 is explained. The weapon 2 is accommodated in a weapon holder 9. The weapon holder 9 is designed in the manner of a weapon cradle that at least partially encloses the weapon 2 around its circumference. The weapon holder 9 can have a substantially U- or C-shaped cross-section, in the opening of which the weapon 2 is accommodated. Alternatively, the weapon holder 9 can also have a closed, for example square or rectangular cross-section, in the opening of which the weapon 2 is accommodated, for example for reasons of rigidity. As can be seen from the schematic representations in Fig. 1 and 2As can be seen, the weapon 2 is not completely received along its length in the weapon mount 9, but a section of the weapon barrel 2.1 oriented in the direction of the weapon muzzle is located outside the weapon mount 9. In the opposite direction, the weapon mount 9 is adapted to the length of the barrel recoil 2.2 of the weapon 2. Alternatively, however, the weapon mount 9 can also be shorter and the weapon recoil 2.2 can extend beyond the end of the weapon mount 9. In this case, care must be taken to ensure that even when the weapon barrel 2.1 is raised to its maximum, there is sufficient space behind the weapon mount 9 so that the weapon barrel 2.1 can move back unhindered when the shot is fired.

[0036] The weapon mount 9, which holds the weapon 2, is mounted on the aiming device 3 via two elevation axes 4, 5. For this purpose, the aiming device 3 has a pivot bearing 6 assigned to one elevation axis 4 and a loose bearing 7 assigned to the other elevation axis 5, see. Fig. 1 The articulated bearing 6 allows rotational movements of the weapon mount 9 in the manner of a joint, while the movable bearing 7 allows translational movements of the weapon mount 9 in or against the firing direction S.

[0037] According to the plan view in Fig. 2 The pivot bearing 6 associated with one elevation axis 4 has two pivot bearing points 6.1, 6.2 spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction, and the movable bearing 7 associated with the other elevation axis 5 has two movable bearing points 7.1, 7.2 spaced apart in the horizontal direction, between which the cradle-like weapon mount 9 is mounted. According to the illustration in Fig. 2The weapon 2 also has a weapon support system 12, which may include a barrel braking system, a barrel recoil system or similar components, which extends essentially parallel to the weapon barrel 2.1 on both sides thereof and is also accommodated by the weapon mount 9. As can be seen from the illustration in Fig. 2 As can be seen, the weapon 2 further has, in the firing direction S, a barrel recoil 2.2, shown in hatched lines, extending axially behind the weapon barrel 2.1. The barrel recoil 2.2 is a free space behind the weapon barrel 2.1, into which the weapon barrel 2.1 moves as a result of the firing reaction forces resulting from the firing of the shot. Depending on the design of the weapon 2, further weapon components can be arranged in whole or in part to the side of the barrel recoil 2.2.

[0038] As can be seen from the illustration in Fig. 2As can be seen, the pivot bearing 6 is arranged in the area of ​​the barrel recoil 2.2 on the weapon mount 9, particularly in the area of ​​the rear end of the weapon mount 9. This arrangement allows for particularly reliable absorption of the firing reaction forces introduced into the weapon mount 9 via the weapon 2. Furthermore, this arrangement of the pivot bearing 6 ensures that the weapon 2 is particularly well guided during elevation. The movable bearing 7 is arranged in front of the pivot bearing 6 in the firing direction S of the weapon 2, in a front area of ​​the weapon mount 9.

[0039] In the following, based on the illustration in Fig. 3explains how the weapon 2, which is mounted on the aiming device 3 via the weapon mount 9, can be aimed in elevation by means of the aiming device 3. For this purpose, the pivot bearing 6 supporting the weapon mount 9 and the floating bearing 7 are each arranged to rotate along a circular orbit U 6 , U 7 around the respective elevation aiming axis 4, 5, see also Fig. 1 . When aiming the weapon 2, the two bearings are therefore moved along the orbits U 6 , U 7 . The respective orbital position of the articulated bearing 6 around the elevation axis 4 and of the floating bearing 7 around the elevation axis 5 (each described by the angle of rotation ϕ 4 or ϕ 5 compared to the vertical, cf. Fig. 6a and b ) the elevation angle α of the weapon 2 is adjustable and the weapon 2 can thus be aimed in elevation. In the rotation position according to Fig. 3The pivot bearing 6, arranged in a rear region of the weapon mount 9, is arranged on the orbit U6 around the elevation axis 4 below the elevation axis 4, close to the turret base 52. At the same time, the floating bearing 7 is arranged above the associated elevation axis 5 in a region of the orbit U7 around the elevation axis 5 remote from the turret base 52. The result is a positive elevation angle α of the weapon 2.

[0040] In order to move the articulated bearing 6 and the movable bearing 7 about the respectively assigned elevation alignment axis 4, 5, the alignment device 3 has a pivoting element 10, 11 extending between the respective elevation alignment axis 4, 5 and the articulated bearing 6 or the movable bearing 7, cf. Fig. 1 The two pivoting elements 10, 11 are Fig. 1designed in the manner of circular sector-shaped swivel discs with the radius R. The radius R 6 or R 7 of the swivel elements 10, 11 corresponds to the radius of the orbit U 6 , U 7 of the spherical bearing 6 or the loose bearing 7 around the respective elevation axis 4, 5, cf. Fig. 3 The pivoting element 10 assigned to the spherical bearing 6 extends over an angle of approximately 90° and thus forms approximately a quarter-circle sector. The pivoting element 11 assigned to the movable bearing 7 extends over an angle of approximately 120° and thus forms approximately a third-circle sector. Alternatively, the pivoting elements 10, 11 can also extend over other circular angles, for example, over semicircular sectors or even full circles. The spherical bearing 6 and the movable bearing 7 are arranged on the outer circumference of the respective pivoting elements 10, 11, see. Fig. 3. When pivoting the pivoting elements 10, 11 about the respective associated elevation axis 4, 5, the spherical bearing 6 and the floating bearing 7 thus perform a rotational movement at a distance R from the elevation axis 4, 5. In other words, pivoting the circular sector-shaped pivoting elements 10, 11 about the angle of rotation ϕ 4 , ϕ 5 a rotational movement of the spherical bearings 6 or floating bearings 7 arranged on their outer circumference on the respective orbit U 6 , U 7 by the same angle of rotation ϕ 4 , ϕ 5 , see also Fig. 6a-b .

[0041] As can be seen, for example, from the illustrations in Fig. 3 or 4As can be seen, the swivel elements 10, 11 designed as circular sector-shaped swivel disks have the same radius R 6 , R 7 . This results in the same orbits U 6 , U 7 for the pivot bearing 6 and the loose bearing 7 around the respectively assigned elevation alignment axis 4, 5. Such an arrangement is advantageous with regard to simple control of the alignment device 3. Alternatively, the swivel elements 10, 11 can also have different radii R, which can, for example, increase the alignment range.

[0042] To drive the swivel elements 10, 11, at least one directional drive M 4 , M 5 designed as a motor is provided, cf. Fig. 1 . The respective swivel element 10, 11 can be rotated quickly and with repeatable accuracy by the respective angle of rotation ϕ 4 , ϕ5 can be pivoted about the respective elevation alignment axis 4, 5. The alignment drives M 4 , M 5 can be controlled independently of one another, thereby increasing the flexibility of the alignment device 3, since the pivoting elements 10, 11 can be pivoted independently about the respective elevation alignment axis 4, 5.

[0043] When comparing the representations in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 It can be seen that the loose bearing 7 arranged on the outer circumference of the pivoting element 11 is in both figures at the same angle of rotation ϕ 5 is positioned relative to the elevation axis 5. The spherical bearing 6 is as shown in Fig. 4 compared to Fig. 3 however, by a certain angle of rotation ϕ counterclockwise around the elevation axis 4. This results in different angles ϕ4 . The floating bearing 7 allows the resulting translational displacement of the weapon barrel 2.1. This results in a slightly smaller elevation angle α. To relieve the aiming drives M 4 , M 5 of the firing reaction forces, they can be decoupled from the pivot elements 10, 11 in such a way that the forces are not transmitted via the aiming drives M 4 , M 5. For this purpose, a fixing device (not shown in the figures) is provided, which fixes the pivot elements 10, 11 in the respective pivot position set via the aiming drives M 4 , M 5 and de-energizes the aiming drives M 4 , M 5.

[0044] As can be seen from the illustrations in Figs. 3 and 4As can be explained, the aiming movements of the articulated bearing 6 and the loose bearing 7 about the two elevation axes 4, 5 can be traced back to a aiming movement of the weapon mount 9, which is mounted via the articulated bearing 6 and the loose bearing 7, about a single, virtual elevation pole E. This virtual elevation pole E can be spatially shifted and adjusted by the interacting rotational movements of the articulated bearing 6 and the loose bearing 7 about the two elevation axes 4, 5. By elevating the weapon 2 about the virtual elevation pole E, a large positive and negative aiming range can be achieved. The aiming device 3 is considerably lower, particularly in the vertical direction, than would be the case when aiming about a single, real elevation axis with the same large aiming range.Due to the smaller size of the aiming device 3, the turret 50 can also be smaller and thus lighter, which increases the power density of the weapon system 1 and thus also its technical-tactical performance.

[0045] Based on the illustrations in the Fig. 6a , which schematically shows a section of the straightening device 3 limited to the elevation straightening axis 5, and 6b, which schematically shows a section of the straightening device 3 limited to the elevation straightening axis 4, it can be explained in detail how the straightening in elevation is carried out via the rotational movements of the articulated bearing 6 or the loose bearing 7 about the respective elevation straightening axis 4, 5. As already explained above, by pivoting the pivot elements 10, 11 about the angle of rotation ϕ 4 , ϕ5 around the respective elevation axis 4, 5, the rotational position of the spherical bearing 6 or the movable bearing 7 is changed, whereby these perform a rotational movement on the orbit U 6 , U 7 determined by the radius R 6 , R 7 of the respective pivoting element 10, 11. In an alternative view, the rotation of the spherical bearing 6 and the movable bearing 7 by the angle of rotation ϕ 4 , ϕ 5 the vertical distances A 1 , B 1 and the horizontal distances A 2 , B 2 of the elevation axes 4, 5 to the spherical bearing 6 or the loose bearing 7 are changed, cf. Fig. 6a and b. A directional position can thus be determined both via the angle of rotation ϕ 4 , ϕ 5 as well as the distances A 1 , B 1 , A 2 , B 2 .

[0046] The representations in the Fig. 5a to eillustrate by way of example a possible range of aiming positions of the weapon 2 with the aiming device 3 described above, wherein the weapon holder 9 is not shown for the sake of simplicity. In the schematic representations of the embodiment according to Fig. 5a to e , the weapon 2 with the weapon barrel 2.1 as well as the pivot bearing 6 and the movable bearing 7 of the aiming device 3, by means of which the weapon 2 is mounted so that it can be elevated (via the weapon mount 9, not shown), are shown in a highly simplified manner. The pivot bearing 6 is arranged in the rear area of ​​the weapon 2 in the firing direction S on the outer circumference of a pivoting disk 10 which can be pivoted about the elevation axis 4 and is designed as a full circular disk for the purpose of illustration. The movable bearing 7 is arranged in front of the pivot bearing 6 in the firing direction S on the outer circumference of a pivoting disk 11 which can be pivoted about the elevation axis 5 and is also designed as a full circular disk for the purpose of illustration.

[0047] In the representation according to Fig. 5a A transport position of the weapon 2 is shown. For this purpose, the weapon 2 is brought into a lower position, close to the turret base, via the aiming system 3. In this position, the weapon 2 extends parallel to the turret base 52. The pivot bearing 6 and the movable bearing 7 are each rotated to a lower position, the angle of rotation ϕ 4 , ϕ 5 is 0° in each case. The transport position of the weapon 2 is characterized by a low overall height of the aiming device 3 and thus of the weapon system 1. This advantage is particularly evident in the case of pivoting elements 10, 11 that are shaped like circular sectors or are designed as pivot rods, cf. Fig. 3, 4 . Furthermore, weapon 2 is located closer to the ground, which advantageously shifts the center of gravity of weapon system 1 downwards.

[0048] According to the presentation in Fig. 5bThe aiming device 3 is in a neutral position, in which the weapon barrel 2.1 of the weapon 2 is aligned essentially parallel to the turret base 52. The elevation angle α is thus 0°. In the neutral position, which represents a starting position for the aiming movements, both the pivot bearing 6 and the movable bearing 7 each have the same angle of rotation. ϕ 4 , ϕ 5 around the respective elevation axis 4, 5 and are located at approximately the same vertical height as the elevation axes 4, 5. The angle of rotation ϕ 4 , ϕ 5 is approximately 90° each.

[0049] By pivoting the pivoting elements 10, 11 out of the neutral position, the elevation angle α can be freely adjusted within an upper limit α max and a lower limit α min, cf. e.g. Fig. 5c . According to the presentation in Fig. 5cthere is a positive elevation angle α, which is achieved by rotating the spherical bearing 6 and the floating bearing 7 by a certain angle of rotation ϕ counterclockwise from the neutral position. The angle of rotation ϕ 4 , ϕ 5 show different amounts.

[0050] To set the maximum elevation angle α max according to Fig. 5d the spherical bearing 6 is rotated into a lower rotational position and the floating bearing 7 into an upper rotational position. The maximum elevation angle α max can be influenced by the dimensioning of the swivel elements 10, 11 and the arrangement of the elevation axes 4, 5. Based on the illustration in Fig. 5dIt can be seen that the maximum elevation angle α max could be further increased if the distance X between the elevation axes 4, 5 were reduced. Alternatively, to enable larger maximum elevation angles α max, the radius R of the swivel element 10 or the swivel element 11 could also be increased, for example.

[0051] According to the presentation in Fig. 5eNegative elevation angles α can also be set with the aiming device 3, for example in order to engage targets that are lower or very close to the weapon system 1. To set the minimum elevation angle α min, the pivot bearing 6 is rotated to an upper position. Furthermore, the floating bearing 7 is rotated to a lower position. The minimum elevation angle α min is influenced not only by the dimensioning of the pivot elements 10, 11 and the arrangement of the elevation axes 4, 5, but also in particular by the structural design of the hull 60 arranged below the turret 50, cf. Fig. 4 . The trough slope 62 of the trough roof 61 limits the minimum elevation angle α min .

[0052] In the following, a method for elevating the weapon 2 is described based on the illustration in the Figs. 3 and 4 described: Based on the Fig. 4 The elevation angle α set in Fig. 3The elevation angle α shown can be adjusted via the alignment device 3. For this purpose, the spherical bearing 6, which is arranged on the outer circumference of the circular sector-like pivoting element 10, rotates about the elevation alignment axis 4. The rotation about the angle of rotation ϕ 4 is carried out via a straightening drive M 4 (cf. Fig. 1 ), by means of which the pivoting element 10 is rotated by precisely that angle ϕ 4 is pivoted. The floating bearing 6 assigned to the other elevation axis 5 can also be rotated by pivoting the pivot element 11, but in the present example it remains in its rotational position according to Fig. 4 . Due to the rotation of the pivot bearing 6, the weapon mount 9, which is connected to it in a rear area and holds the weapon 2, is moved in the horizontal and vertical direction in such a way that a smaller elevation angle α results.

[0053] The weapon system 1 described above and the method for elevating a weapon 2 of a weapon system 1 are characterized by a high power density and simultaneous simple control of the aiming device 3. Reference symbol:

[0054] 1Weapon system 2Weapon 2.1Weapon barrel 2.2Barrel recoil 3Aiming device 4Elevation axis 5Elevation axis 6Pivoting bearing 6.1Pivoting bearing point 6.2Pivoting bearing point 7Loosing bearing 7.1Loosing bearing point 7.2Loosing bearing point 8Azimuth axis 9Weapon mount 10Pivoting element 11Pivoting element 12Weapon support system 50Tower 51Tower pivot bearing 52Tower floor 60Tub 61Tub roof 62Tub slope A 1 vertical distance A 2 horizontal distance B 1 vertical distance B 2 horizontal distance EElevation pole Mdirection drive M 4 direction drive M 5 direction drive Rradius R 6 radius R 7 radius SShot direction UOrbit U 6 orbit U 7 orbit Xdistance αElevation angle α max maximum elevation angle α min minimum elevation angle ϕ angle of rotation ϕ 4 rotation angles ϕ 5 rotation angles

Claims

1. Weapon system with a weapon (2), in particular a barrel weapon, and an aiming device (3) with two spaced-apart elevation axes (4, 5) for aiming the weapon (2) in elevation, the aiming device (3) has a trunnion bearing (6) associated with one elevation axis (4) and a loose bearing (7) associated with the other elevation axis (5) for mounting a weapon receptacle (9) receiving the weapon (2), characterized in that the trunnion bearing (6) and the loose bearing (7) are arranged rotatably along an orbit (U) about the associated elevation axis (4, 5).

2. Weapon system according to claim 1, characterized in that the loose bearing (7) is arranged in front of the trunnion bearing (6) in the firing direction (S) of the weapon (2).

3. Weapon system according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the loose bearing (7) is arranged in the firing direction (S) of the weapon (2) in a front region of the weapon receptacle (9) and / or that the trunnion bearing (6) is arranged in the firing direction (S) of the weapon (2) in a rear region of the weapon receptacle (9).

4. Weapon system according to claim 1, characterized in that the radius (R6) of the orbit (U6) of the trunnion bearing (6) about the one elevation axis (4) is substantially equal to the radius (R7) of the orbit (U7) of the loose bearing (7) about the other elevation axis (5).

5. Weapon system according to one of claims 1 or 4, characterized in that the trunnion bearing (6) and / or the loose bearing (7) are arranged rotatably over an angular range about the associated elevation axes (4, 5), which is smaller than 360°.

6. Weapon system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the trunnion bearing (6) has at least two trunnion bearing points (6.1, 6.2), between which the weapon receptacle (9) is mounted and / or in that the loose bearing (7) has at least two loose bearing points (7.1, 7.2) between which the weapon receptacle (9) is mounted.

7. Weapon system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the aiming device (3) has at least one pivot element (10, 11), which can be pivoted via at least one aiming drive (M4, M5), for aiming the weapon (2).

8. Weapon system according to claim 7, characterized in that one of the pivot elements (10) extends between the one elevation axis (4) and the trunnion bearing (6) and / or in that another pivot element (11) extends between the other elevation axis (5) and the loose bearing (7).

9. Weapon system according to one of claims 7 or 8, characterized in that the pivot elements (10, 11) can be decoupled from the aiming drive (M4, M5).

10. Weapon system according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the pivot element (10, 11) is a pivot rod or a pivot disc.

11. Weapon system according to claim 10, characterized in that the trunnion bearing (6) and / or the loose bearing (7) are arranged on the outer circumference of the respective pivot elements (10, 11) designed as pivot discs.

12. Weapon system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elevation axes (4, 5) are arranged at a predetermined distance from the turret base (52), the distance from the turret base (52) corresponding to the length of the pivot element (10, 11) designed as a pivot rod and / or the radius (R) of the pivot element (10, 11) designed as a pivot disc.

13. Method for elevating a weapon (2) of a weapon system (1), in particular a barrel weapon, with an aiming device (3) having two spaced-apart elevation axes (4, 5), wherein the aiming device (3) has a trunnion bearing (6) associated with one elevation axis (4) and a loose bearing (7) associated with the other elevation axis (5) for mounting a weapon receptacle (9) receiving the weapon (2), characterized in that the trunnion bearing (6) and the loose bearing (7) are rotated along an orbit (U) about the respective elevation axis (4, 5) in order to aim the weapon (2).

14. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the weapon system (1) is designed according to one of the preceding claims.