PROTECTED VEHICLE WITH ROLL-OVER PROTECTION SYSTEM

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a rollover protection system for a protected vehicle and a protected vehicle with such a rollover protection system.

[0002] According to internal findings, protected vehicles, such as infantry fighting vehicles, often have a complex and difficult-to-see-through geometry. This can necessitate that individual crew members pass through the hatch. This can be done standing or sitting. "Passing through the hatch" means that the upper body or at least the head of the respective crew member protrudes from a hatch opening of the protected vehicle into the surrounding area. This may be necessary, for example, for the commander to assist the driver or for improved maneuverability of the protected vehicle in civilian traffic. However, this situation can mean that in the event of a rollover, the crew member passing through the hatch is exposed to potentially fatal dangers.In the worst case scenario, the crew member could be crushed by the overturning protected vehicle and thus fatally injured.

[0003] US 2016 / 0001731 A1 describes a tower airbag system that includes a multitude of airbags arranged within a tower to protect a tower occupant from injury and / or ejection from the tower.

[0004] US patent 2006 / 0138763 A1 describes a vehicle safety device for convertible top vehicles, which includes a roll bar welded to an existing vehicle and equipped with sensors that, in the event of a rollover, trigger the deployment of airbags to cover the convertible top and the sides of the driver and passenger compartment.

[0005] US 7,413,247 B2 describes another vehicle safety device for vehicles, wherein the device reacts to a trigger, causing an occupant support to retract and actively pull the occupant into the vehicle interior.

[0006] Against this background, one object of the present invention is to provide an improved rollover protection system for a protected vehicle.

[0007] Accordingly, a protected vehicle with a rollover protection system is proposed.The rollover protection system comprises a protective cover for protecting a crew member who is partially inside and partially outside the protected vehicle in the event of a rollover of the protected vehicle, and an actuator associated with the protective cover, wherein the actuator is configured to move the protective cover from a folded state to an unfolded state immediately before or during the rollover of the protected vehicle, and wherein the rollover protection system can be mounted on the protected vehicle such that the protective cover, in the unfolded state, is at least partially located outside the protected vehicle and thus at least partially encloses areas of the crew member who are located outside the protected vehicle during the rollover, so that the protected vehicle initially rests on the protective cover in the event of a rollover.The rollover protection system further comprises sensors configured to detect a tilting of the protected vehicle in at least one spatial direction, a control unit configured to actuate the actuator based on sensor signals such that the actuator moves the protective cover from the folded state to the unfolded state immediately before or during the rollover of the protected vehicle, a support element for carrying the crew member, and an adjustment unit for adjusting the height position of the support element, wherein the control unit is configured to actuate the adjustment unit based on sensor signals such that the adjustment unit adjusts the height position of the support element immediately before or during the rollover of the protected vehicle in such a way that the crew member is completely relocated inside the protected vehicle.

[0008] Because the protective cover, when unfolded, at least partially encloses the areas of the crew member located outside the protected vehicle, the protected vehicle initially rests on the cover in the event of a rollover. This gives the crew member time to fully retreat inside the protected vehicle. This significantly reduces the risk of injury to the crew member from the rollover.

[0009] Accordingly, the term "rollover protection system" is preferably not understood to mean a system that prevents the protected vehicle from rolling over or overturning per se, but rather a system that prevents or at least reduces the potential negative consequences of a rollover for the occupant. The rollover protection system can also be referred to as a rollover protection device. The rollover protection system can preferably be retrofitted to protected vehicles that do not already have such a system installed at the factory. The rollover protection system is therefore retrofittable. The rollover protection system is preferably modular in design. This means, in particular, that the rollover protection system can be installed on the protected vehicle as a retrofit module.

[0010] Alternatively, the protected vehicle can also be equipped with such a rollover protection system ex works.

[0011] The term "protected" in this context refers specifically to protection against gunfire, booby traps, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), mines, or similar threats. The protected vehicle may be armored for this purpose. It may be a tracked or wheeled vehicle. For the purposes of this text, it is assumed that the protected vehicle is a wheeled vehicle. The protected vehicle may have multiple axles, each with wheels. For example, four axles with eight wheels are provided. However, it may also have fewer or more than four axles.

[0012] The protected vehicle preferably has a protected vehicle cell. The protected vehicle cell can, in particular, be an interchangeable mission module of the protected vehicle. An example of such a mission module is a medical module. The protected vehicle, and in particular the protected vehicle cell, has, for example, a sloping front wall and a roof.

[0013] The protected vehicle or vehicle cell may have one or more hatch openings. Each hatch opening may be associated with such a rollover protection system. Furthermore, each hatch opening may be opened and closed by means of a movable, in particular sliding or pivoting, hatch cover. The hatch opening or openings may be located on a wall of the protected vehicle or vehicle cell. The wall may be part of the aforementioned roof or front wall.

[0014] The fact that the crew member is "partially inside and partially outside" the protected vehicle can mean, for example, that the crew member extends their upper body, and in particular at least their head, out of a hatch opening as previously mentioned in order to drive over the hatch. In this case, the lower body of the crew member may, for example, be located in an interior space of the protected vehicle or the protected vehicle cell, while the upper body is located outside this interior space in the vicinity of the protected vehicle. "Partially inside and partially outside" is to be understood in this context specifically as meaning that the crew member is simultaneously partially inside and partially outside the interior space.

[0015] The protected vehicle is preferably assigned a coordinate system with a first spatial direction (longitudinal direction or x-direction), a second spatial direction (vertical direction or y-direction), and a third spatial direction (transverse direction or z-direction). The directions are preferably oriented perpendicular to each other. A movement of the protected vehicle around the x-direction can be described as rolling or rolling motion. A movement of the protected vehicle around the y-direction can be described as yawing or yaw motion. A movement of the protected vehicle around the z-direction can be described as pitching or pitching motion. The protected vehicle's direction of travel is preferably oriented opposite to the x-direction. However, the protected vehicle can also move in the opposite direction of travel – for example, when reversing.

[0016] In this context, a "rollover" of the protected vehicle is understood to mean, in particular, that the protected vehicle rotates at least from its wheels onto its roof or front panel. However, this does not preclude the protected vehicle from rolling or rotating at least once or even several times around the x-direction, preferably oriented perpendicular to the wheel axes, and / or around the z-direction, preferably oriented parallel to the wheel axes. A rollover of the protected vehicle can also be a combined roll, yaw, and / or pitch movement. "Immediately before the rollover" in this context can mean that the protective cover is triggered fractions of a second before the actual rollover. This can occur based on sensor signals from the rollover protection system's sensors.

[0017] In its unfolded state, the protective cover is preferably located entirely outside the protected vehicle, particularly outside the interior of the protected vehicle. Accordingly, in its unfolded state, the protective cover is also preferably located entirely outside the protected vehicle cell. The protective cover can also be referred to as a protective shield or a protective screen. The terms "protective cover," "protective shield," and "protective screen" can therefore be used interchangeably throughout this text.

[0018] The protective cover is preferably flexible. It can therefore also be described as a flexible protective cover. "Flexible" in this context means, in particular, that the protective cover can be deformed with minimal force. Thus, the protective cover can be moved from a folded to an unfolded state, for example, by a fluid in the form of a gas. In this case, the protective cover is inflated or expanded. This means, in particular, that the protective cover is inflatable or expandable. It can therefore also be described as an inflatable protective cover or an expandable protective cover.

[0019] However, "flexible" in this context does not necessarily mean that the protective cover can be elastically deformed, especially stretched. This means, in particular, that the protective cover is preferably not elastically deformable. However, elastic deformability of the protective cover cannot be completely ruled out. For example, the protective cover may be made of or have a fibrous fabric. The protective cover may be multi-layered or have a multi-layered structure.

[0020] In this context, the protective shell "protects" the crew member, meaning in particular that it prevents the crew member from being trapped between the protected vehicle and the surface on which the protected vehicle is moving. Preferably, the protective shell is not necessarily designed to fully support the weight of the protected vehicle, but rather to provide the crew member with sufficient time, compared to a protected vehicle without such a rollover protection system, to retreat into the interior before contact with the ground or with objects in the vicinity of the protected vehicle.

[0021] Alternatively, the rollover protection system can be designed in such a way that the system, and in particular the protective cover, is fundamentally capable of bearing the entire weight of the protected vehicle. In this case, the protective cover can be filled with an incompressible fluid, such as a liquid, to move it from its folded to its unfolded state. Filling the protective cover with an expanding foam is also possible.

[0022] The actuator can also be called a control element or a positioning element. Several such actuators can be assigned to the protective shell. However, only one actuator will be discussed below. The actuator can, for example, explosively release a fluid, particularly a gas, as mentioned previously. Specifically, the actuator is capable of converting energy to move the protective shell from its folded state to its unfolded state. For example, the actuator can convert chemical energy into mechanical energy. The actuator can be a gas generator, particularly a pyrotechnic one. However, this is not mandatory.

[0023] The folded state can also be described as the folded or rolled-up state of the protective cover. The unfolded state can accordingly be described as the unfolded or unrolled state of the protective cover. In particular, the movement of the protective cover from the folded to the unfolded state is irreversible. Therefore, the protective cover can be replaced after a single movement from the folded to the unfolded state. Alternatively, the protective cover can also be moved back from the unfolded state to the folded state. In the folded state, the protective cover occupies a significantly smaller space than in the unfolded state.

[0024] The rollover protection system can be mounted on the protected vehicle because the rollover protection system, for example, the protective cover, can be attached to the aforementioned wall of the protected vehicle, in particular the protected vehicle compartment. Suitable fastening elements can be provided for this purpose. Specifically, the rollover protection system is attached to the protected vehicle in such a way that the protective cover, when unfolded, is located completely outside the protected vehicle and thus also completely outside the interior of the protected vehicle. This means, in particular, that when the protective cover is moved from its folded to its unfolded state, it extends into the surrounding area of ​​the protected vehicle.

[0025] For example, when unfolded, the protective cover can form a ring around the areas of the crew member located outside the protected vehicle. In particular, the protective cover can completely enclose or enclose these areas. The areas of the crew member located outside the protected vehicle or outside the protected vehicle cell include, for example, the crew member's head. However, these areas can also include the crew member's torso and / or arms.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the rollover protection system has several protective covers which, in their unfolded state, form a protective space separated from the surroundings of the protected vehicle around the areas of the crew member that are located outside the protected vehicle.

[0027] The number of protective covers is essentially arbitrary. For example, two such covers could be provided. However, more than two covers are also possible. For instance, four covers could be provided, arranged along the four edges of the aforementioned hatch opening. In this case, these covers could be triangular when unfolded, forming a pyramidal geometry that encloses the shelter. The shelter itself would then also be pyramidal. The protective covers could, in principle, assume any three-dimensional shape when unfolded. For example, they could be shell-shaped, creating a hemispherical or dome-shaped shelter. The shelter could also be truncated cone-shaped through a suitable design of the protective covers.

[0028] According to another embodiment, the rollover protection system has a carrier unit in which the protective cover is received in the folded state, wherein the protective cover is at least partially arranged outside the carrier unit in the unfolded state.

[0029] Several support units can be provided. In particular, each protective cover is assigned a support unit. The following discussion focuses on only one support unit. The support unit can be box-shaped. For example, a single frame-shaped support unit can be provided, which completely surrounds the hatch opening. This support unit then houses a frame-shaped or ring-shaped protective cover. When the protective cover is moved from the folded state to the unfolded state, it is explosively deployed from the support unit. However, the protective cover preferably remains connected to the support unit or to the wall of the protected vehicle or vehicle cell. The connection of the protective cover to the wall can be direct or indirect. "Direct" in this context means that the protective cover is directly connected to the wall."Indirectly" in this context means, for example, that the protective cover is connected to the carrier unit, and the carrier unit is in turn connected to the wall. The carrier unit, along with the protective cover, can be replaced.

[0030] According to another embodiment, when the protective cover is moved from the folded state to the unfolded state, it opens the carrier unit, in particular along a predetermined breaking point.

[0031] The carrier unit can, for example, have a hinged lid which is pushed open by the unfolding protective cover when it is moved from its folded to its unfolded state. In this case, the protective cover can, for example, be manually folded again and placed back into the carrier unit. Thus, the protective cover and the carrier unit can be reused. Alternatively, the carrier unit, including the protective cover, can also be a disposable component. In this case, the carrier unit can, for example, be made at least partially of a plastic material. The carrier unit can then be provided with a predetermined breaking point in the form of a perforation, as mentioned previously.When the protective cover is moved from the folded state to the unfolded state, the carrier unit tears open along the predetermined breaking point and the protective cover unfolds out of the carrier unit and thus into the surroundings of the protected vehicle.

[0032] According to another embodiment, the carrier unit can be mounted on an outside of the protected vehicle.

[0033] The aforementioned wall of the protected vehicle, in particular the protected vehicle cell, preferably has an outer surface facing the surroundings of the protected vehicle and an inner surface facing the interior of the protected vehicle, in particular the protected vehicle cell. The support unit is mounted on the outer surface. For example, the support unit is screwed, riveted, bonded, and / or welded to the outer surface of the wall. As mentioned above, the support unit is particularly replaceable. This means, in particular, that after the protective cover has been moved once from its folded to its unfolded state, the support unit, along with the unfolded protective cover, is removed and replaced by a new support unit with a new, folded protective cover.

[0034] According to another embodiment, the rollover protection system has several carrier units, with each carrier unit having a protective cover assigned to it.

[0035] As mentioned previously, any number of carrier units can be provided. For example, one carrier unit can be provided above and one below the aforementioned hatch opening. Alternatively, one carrier unit can be provided to the right and one to the left of the hatch opening. Furthermore, it is also possible to provide one carrier unit both above and below, as well as to the right and one to the left of the hatch opening.

[0036] The rollover protection system has sensors designed to detect a tilting of the protected vehicle in at least one spatial direction, and a control unit designed to control the actuator based on sensor signals from the sensors in such a way that the actuator moves the protective cover from the folded state to the unfolded state immediately before or during the rollover of the protected vehicle.

[0037] The sensor system can comprise a wide variety of sensors. For example, it can include one or more tilt sensors, one or more position sensors, one or more acceleration sensors, or similar devices. The sensor system is functionally connected to the control unit of the rollover protection system. This connection can be wired or wireless. The control unit can be an internal vehicle system, such as a CAN node (Controller Area Network), or any other electronic control unit. The control unit, in turn, is functionally connected to the actuator. Again, this connection can be wired or wireless. The control unit is used for data processing and for transmitting control signals to the actuator. Using the sensor system, for example, a tilt of the protected vehicle around the x-direction, the y-direction, and / or the z-direction can be detected.If a certain preset tilt threshold of the protected vehicle is exceeded, such that a rollover is likely, the control unit activates the actuator to move the protective shell from its folded to its unfolded state. The rollover detection sensors can also be used for other components of the protected vehicle that require specific positional information. This includes, for example, weapon sensors for the vehicle's armament.

[0038] The rollover protection system has a support element for carrying the crew member and an adjustment unit for adjusting the height position of the support element, wherein the control unit is designed to control the adjustment unit based on sensor signals from the sensor system in such a way that the adjustment unit immediately before or during the rollover of the protected vehicle adjusts the height position of the support element so that the crew member is completely relocated into the protected vehicle.

[0039] Thus, the time gained by the protective shell can be used to move the crew member completely into the protected vehicle with the aid of the support element and the adjustment unit. For example, the adjustment unit is suspended from the protected vehicle cell, particularly from the wall, by means of a suspension. The support element is preferably located inside the interior. The position of the support element can be adjusted along the y-direction or along the vertical axis of the protected vehicle using the adjustment unit. In this context, the "vertical position" refers to the position of the support element along the y-direction or along the vertical axis. The support element can be a seat for the crew member. Accordingly, the terms "support element" and "seat" can be used interchangeably. Alternatively, the support element can also be a standing platform for the crew member.The crew member can be strapped to such a standing platform, so that in the event of a rollover, the crew member cannot be ejected from the protected vehicle compartment. However, it is subsequently assumed that the rollover protection system includes a support element in the form of a seat. The crew member can be strapped to or onto this support element, so that even in this case, the crew member cannot be ejected from the protected vehicle compartment in the event of a rollover. If the support element is a seat, the adjustment unit can accordingly be referred to as a seat adjustment unit. Therefore, the terms "adjustment unit" and "seat adjustment unit" are interchangeable in this context.

[0040] According to another embodiment, the protective cover, when unfolded, protects the crew member from gunfire.

[0041] This allows the protective cover to serve a dual purpose. For example, it can provide protection against small-caliber firearms, such as those up to 7.62 x 51 mm NATO caliber. Furthermore, the cover can also protect the crew member from shrapnel. For this purpose, the cover can incorporate aramid fibers, particularly Kevlar. The cover can thus stop and / or deflect projectiles up to the aforementioned example caliber. To provide protection against incendiary ammunition that penetrates the cover, a fluid filling the cover, particularly a gas such as nitrogen, can be flame-retardant. The cover itself can also be made of a flame-retardant material. For example, intumescent materials can be used for the cover. Such intumescent materials increase in volume and decrease in density when exposed to heat.

[0042] According to another embodiment, the rollover protection system has a switch for triggering the actuator, so that it moves the protective cover from the folded state to the unfolded state without the protected vehicle rolling over.

[0043] Thus, the switch can be used to bypass the sensors and directly trigger the actuator. Simultaneously, as previously explained, the support element can be retracted into the interior. The switch can be connected to the control unit wirelessly or via a wired connection. Alternatively, a direct connection between the switch and the actuator can be provided. Additionally or alternatively, a gunshot detection system can be provided, which detects, for example, a shot fired in the direction of the protected vehicle, particularly optically and / or acoustically. For example, the gunshot detection system can have multiple sensors mounted at different positions on the protected vehicle. The gunshot detection system can be connected to the control unit.Based on sensor signals from the shot detection system, the control unit determines whether a fired projectile could harm a crew member. If there is a high probability of harm to the crew member from the projectile, the control unit activates the actuator to move the protective cover from its folded to its unfolded state. The shot detection system can be activated or deactivated. An optional additional switch may be provided for this purpose.

[0044] According to another embodiment, the actuator fills the protective cover with a fluid to move it from the folded state to the unfolded state.

[0045] The fluid can be a gas or a liquid. A gas is particularly preferred. The fluid can also be an expanding foam. Compressed gases or liquids, for example, can be used to deploy the protective cover. If a compressed gas is used as the fluid, it can be released mechanically. In this case, for example, a mechanical spring assembly can force the gaseous fluid from a piston and / or a reservoir into the protective cover. Furthermore, the fluid, in the form of the compressed gas, can also be released electrically. In this case, an electromechanical valve can open a pressurized gas container. In the case of an explosive release of the fluid, an explosive charge creates a released gas mixture, which deploys the protective cover explosively or instantaneously. If a liquid is used as the fluid, it can be released mechanically, electrically, hydraulically, or explosively.In mechanical release, for example, a mechanical spring assembly forces the fluid (in liquid form) from a piston and / or reservoir into the protective casing. In hydraulic release, the actuator fills the protective casing with hydraulic pressure from a reservoir. In explosive release, an explosive charge forces the fluid (in liquid form) into the protective casing.

[0046] According to another embodiment, the actuator mechanically unfolds the protective cover to move it from the folded state to the unfolded state.

[0047] This means, in particular, that the actuator can move or unfold the protective cover, for example, in the manner of an umbrella, from a folded to an unfolded state. The protective cover is thus preferably foldable and / or unfoldable like an umbrella. In particular, pre-tensioned springs can also unfold the protective cover. These springs can be arranged in a fence-like or grid-like configuration. Components made of shape-memory alloys can also be used to unfold the protective cover.

[0048] Furthermore, a protected vehicle with at least one such rollover protection system is proposed.

[0049] The protected vehicle can have several such rollover protection systems. For example, the protected vehicle can have multiple hatches, with each hatch potentially having its own rollover protection system. However, it is not mandatory for each hatch to have its own rollover protection system. The protected vehicle is, in particular, a military vehicle. Therefore, the protected vehicle can also be referred to as a military vehicle. Specifically, the protected vehicle is an armored transport vehicle. The protected vehicle can also be, for example, an infantry fighting vehicle, a main battle tank, a recovery vehicle, a mine clearance vehicle, a reconnaissance vehicle, or the like. The protected vehicle can also be, in particular, a wheeled armored vehicle. The protected vehicle can be referred to as a protected military vehicle. As mentioned previously, the protected vehicle comprises the protected vehicle hull.The protected vehicle cell is preferably designed in the form of an interchangeable mission module.

[0050] Particularly preferably, the protected vehicle comprises a rollover protection system with a protective cover for protecting a crew member who is partly inside and partly outside the protected vehicle in the event of a rollover of the protected vehicle, and an actuator associated with the protective cover, wherein the actuator is configured to move the protective cover from a folded state to an unfolded state immediately before or during the rollover of the protected vehicle, and wherein the rollover protection system is mounted on the protected vehicle in such a way that the protective cover, in the unfolded state, is at least partially located outside the protected vehicle and thus at least partially encloses areas of the crew member who are located outside the protected vehicle during the rollover.

[0051] Furthermore, a protected vehicle cell is proposed for such a protected vehicle.The protected vehicle cell comprises a rollover protection system with a protective cover for protecting a crew member who is partially inside and partially outside the protected vehicle cell in the event of a rollover of the protected vehicle cell, and an actuator associated with the protective cover, wherein the actuator is configured to move the protective cover from a folded state to an unfolded state immediately before or during the rollover of the protected vehicle cell, and wherein the rollover protection system is mounted on the protected vehicle cell such that the protective cover, in the unfolded state, is at least partially located outside the protected vehicle cell and thus at least partially encloses areas of the crew member that are located outside the protected vehicle cell during the rollover.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the protected vehicle has a wall with a hatch opening, wherein the rollover protection system is mounted on the wall, and wherein the protective cover, in the unfolded state, at least partially surrounds the hatch opening.

[0053] The protective cover can also completely encircle the hatch opening. In this case, the cover is, for example, frame-shaped or ring-shaped. However, as mentioned previously, several protective covers can also be arranged around the hatch opening, which together, when unfolded, form the aforementioned dome-shaped protective space above the hatch opening.

[0054] According to another embodiment, the protective cover is connected to the wall.

[0055] As mentioned previously, the protective cover can be directly or indirectly connected to the wall. In the case of a direct connection, the protective cover is attached to the wall directly, for example, by riveting, screwing, and / or gluing. In the case of an indirect connection, the protective cover can be connected to the support unit, which in turn is attached to the wall.

[0056] The embodiments and features described for the proposed rollover protection system apply accordingly to the proposed protected vehicle and vice versa.

[0057] The term "one" here should not necessarily be understood as restricting the number to exactly one element. Rather, it can also refer to multiple elements, such as two, three, or more. Similarly, every other counter used here should not be interpreted as restricting the number to the exact number stated. Instead, numerical deviations, both higher and lower, are possible unless otherwise specified.

[0058] Other possible implementations of the rollover protection system and / or the protected vehicle also include combinations of features or embodiments described previously or subsequently with regard to the exemplary embodiments, even if not explicitly mentioned. In such cases, a person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the rollover protection system and / or the protected vehicle.

[0059] Further advantageous embodiments and aspects of the rollover protection system and / or the protected vehicle are the subject of the dependent claims and the exemplary embodiments of the rollover protection system and / or the protected vehicle described below. The rollover protection system and / or the protected vehicle are further explained below with reference to preferred embodiments and the accompanying figures. Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a protected vehicle; Fig. 2 shows a schematic top view of an embodiment of a rollover protection system for the protected vehicle according to Fig. 1 Fig. 3 shows a schematic sectional view of the rollover protection system along section line III-III of the Fig. 2 Fig. 4 shows another schematic sectional view of the rollover protection system according to section line III-III of the Fig. 2 Fig. 5 shows a schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a protective cover for the rollover protection system according to Fig. 2 Fig. 6 shows another schematic sectional view of the protective cover according to Fig. 5 Fig. 7 shows a schematic sectional view of another embodiment of a rollover protection system for the protected vehicle according to Fig. 1 ; and Fig. 8 shows a further schematic sectional view of the rollover protection system according to Fig. 7 .

[0060] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements have been given the same reference symbols, unless otherwise indicated.

[0061] The Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a protected vehicle 1.

[0062] The protected vehicle 1 will hereinafter be referred to simply as "vehicle." Vehicle 1 can be a military vehicle, in particular a military utility vehicle. Therefore, Vehicle 1 can also be referred to as a military vehicle or a military utility vehicle. Specifically, Vehicle 1 is an armored transport vehicle. Vehicle 1 can, for example, also be an infantry fighting vehicle, a main battle tank, a recovery vehicle, a mine clearance vehicle, a reconnaissance vehicle, or the like. Vehicle 1 can also be a wheeled armored vehicle.

[0063] Vehicle 1 comprises a protected vehicle cell 2. Hereinafter, the protected vehicle cell 2 will simply be referred to as the vehicle cell. The vehicle cell 2 can be a vehicle hull and therefore also be referred to as such. The terms "vehicle cell" and "vehicle hull" are thus interchangeable. Vehicle 1 can be armed or unarmed. Vehicle 1 can have a vehicle weight exceeding 20 tons.

[0064] Vehicle hull 2 ​​is armored. Vehicle hull 2 ​​is specifically protected against gunfire, booby traps, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), mines, or similar hazards. Vehicle hull 2 ​​encloses a vehicle interior or compartment 3, which can accommodate a crew of vehicle 1. The compartment 3 is accessible from an environment 4 of vehicle 1 via doors and / or hatches (not shown). The compartment 3 may be divided into several sections or spaces, which may be separate from one another. For example, the compartment 3 may be divided into an engine room, a crew compartment, and / or a driver's compartment. However, this is not mandatory.

[0065] Furthermore, the vehicle body 2 can be at least partially or completely modularly interchangeable. In this case, the vehicle 1 can have different mission modules, mission kits, or equipment sets that are freely interchangeable. A medical module can be given as an example of such a mission module. However, this modular structure described above is arbitrary. The vehicle body 2, for example, comprises a roof 5 and a front wall 6 arranged at an angle to the roof 5.

[0066] Vehicle 1 can be a wheeled vehicle or a tracked vehicle. However, it is assumed below that vehicle 1 is a wheeled vehicle. Vehicle 1 comprises several wheel axles 7, 8, 9, 10, on which wheels 11, 12, 13, 14 are provided. For example, four wheel axles 7, 8, 9, 10 with eight wheels 11, 12, 13, 14 are provided. However, there may also be fewer or more than four wheel axles 7, 8, 9, 10. In this context, a "wheel axle" is understood to be an axle around which the respective wheel 11, 12, 13, 14 rotates.

[0067] The number of wheel axles 7, 8, 9, 10 is arbitrary. For example, four wheel axles 7, 8, 9, 10 or three wheel axles 7, 8, 9, 10 can be provided. Each wheel axle 7, 8, 9, 10 is assigned two wheels 11, 12, 13, 14. At least wheels 11 and 12 are steerable. Preferably, however, all wheels 11, 12, 13, 14 are steerable. Preferably, the vehicle 1 includes all-wheel drive. That is, all wheel axles 7, 8, 9, 10 are driven.

[0068] Vehicle 1 can have a turret 15 with armament 16. The turret 15 is rotatably mounted on the vehicle chassis 2. The turret 15 can include an electric or hydraulic drive unit to rotate the turret 15 about a pivot axis 17 relative to the vehicle chassis 2. However, the turret 15 can also be operated manually if the drive unit fails. The armament 16 can be an autocannon or the like. The armament 16 can be the primary or main armament. A secondary armament, for example in the form of a machine gun, can also be provided.

[0069] Vehicle 1 is assigned a coordinate system with a first spatial direction, longitudinal direction or x-direction x, a second spatial direction, vertical direction or y-direction y, and a third spatial direction, transverse direction or z-direction z. The directions x, y, and z are oriented perpendicular to each other. A movement of vehicle 1 around the x-direction x can be described as rolling or roll motion. A movement of vehicle 1 around the y-direction y can be described as yawing or yaw motion. A movement of vehicle 1 around the z-direction z can be described as pitching or pitching motion.

[0070] A gravitational direction g can be oriented essentially opposite to the y-direction y. A weight force G of the vehicle 1 acts along the gravitational direction g. The vehicle 1 can move along a direction of travel F and against the direction of travel F on a ground or surface 18. The direction of travel F can be oriented opposite to the x-direction x. The surface 18 can be a roadway or any terrain.

[0071] The Fig. 2 Figure 1 shows a schematic top view of an embodiment of a rollover protection system 19A for vehicle 1. Fig. 3 shows a schematic sectional view of the rollover protection system 19A. Fig. 4 This shows another schematic sectional view of the rollover protection system 19A. The following refers to the... Fig. 2 bis 4 Reference was made at the same time.

[0072] A hatch opening 21 is provided on a wall 20 of the vehicle cell 2, in particular on the roof 5 or the front wall 6, through which the interior 3 can be exited into the surroundings 4 or the interior 3 can be entered from the surroundings 4. The wall 20 can, for example, be part of the roof 5 or the front wall 6. The wall 20 can run horizontally. However, the wall 20 can also be arranged at an angle or vertically.

[0073] Vehicle 1 can have any number of hatch openings 21. For example, such a hatch opening 21 can also be provided on turret 15. Accordingly, the wall 20 can also be part of turret 15. The hatch opening 21 can have any geometry. For example, the hatch opening 21 can be rectangular or round. Viewed along the z-direction, the hatch opening 21 can be located to the left or right of turret 15.

[0074] A hatch cover 22 is assigned to the hatch opening 21, with the help of which the hatch opening 21 can be closed. The hatch cover 22 is in the Fig. 3 and 4 Not shown. The hatch cover 22 can be a hinged hatch cover, a sliding hatch cover, a lifting hatch cover, or a cover with a combined translational and rotational opening and closing movement. It is assumed below that the hatch cover 22 is a hinged hatch cover. This means that the hatch cover 22 is rotatably mounted on the wall 20 about a pivot axis 23. The pivot axis 23 can run parallel to the z-direction.

[0075] The hatch cover 22 can be moved from a closed position (not shown) to a position that is open. Fig. 2 The hatch cover 22 can be moved to the open position shown. It can be locked in its open position so that it cannot close automatically even if the vehicle 1 rolls over.

[0076] The hatch cover 22 is attached to the wall 20 by means of hinges 24, 25. In the open position, the hatch cover 22 can rest on the wall 20. However, this is not mandatory. The hatch cover 22 can also be positioned so that it does not rest against the wall 20 in the open position. The hatch cover 22 can have a locking unit 26 for locking and unlocking the hatch cover 22.

[0077] With such a vehicle 1, the complex geometry of the vehicle may necessitate that individual crew members 27 travel through the hatch. This can be done standing or sitting. "Through the hatch" means that at least the head of the respective crew member 27 protrudes from the hatch opening 21 into the surrounding area 4. This may be necessary, for example, for the commander to assist the driver or for improved maneuverability of the vehicle 1 in civilian road traffic. This circumstance can lead to a situation where, in the event of a rollover of the vehicle 1, the crew member 27 traveling through the hatch is exposed to fatal danger. In the worst-case scenario, the crew member 27 could be crushed by the vehicle 1 and thus fatally injured.

[0078] To mitigate the aforementioned problem, the rollover protection system 19A described below is provided. Each hatch opening 21 of the vehicle 1 can be assigned such a rollover protection system 19A. The rollover protection system 19A comprises a protective cover 28, which is housed in a receiving unit or support unit 29. The protective cover 28 can also be referred to as a shield or protective screen. The terms "protective cover," "shield," and "protective screen" can therefore be used interchangeably. The rollover protection system 19A is particularly suitable for vehicle weights exceeding 20 tons.

[0079] The protective cover 28 is flexible. The protective cover 28 can therefore also be described as a flexible protective cover. "Flexible" in this context means that the protective cover 28 can be deformed with minimal force. However, "flexible" is not synonymous with the fact that the protective cover 28 can be elastically deformed, in particular stretched. This means, in particular, that the protective cover 28 is preferably not elastically deformable.

[0080] The protective cover 28 can be folded or rolled up inside the support unit 29. This allows the protective cover 28 to take up very little space. The rollover protection system 19A is retrofittable. This means that the rollover protection system 19A can also be used in vehicles (not shown) that do not have such a rollover protection system 19A as standard equipment. The support unit 29 is located outside the interior 3. In particular, the support unit 29 faces the surrounding area 4. When the hatch cover 22 is closed, it can cover at least part of the support unit 29. The support unit 29 can be made of a plastic material, at least in part.

[0081] The folded or rolled-up protective cover 28 is contained within the support unit 29. The support unit 29 can be box-shaped. The support unit 29 can, for example, be attached to an outer surface 30 of the wall 20. The outer surface 30 faces the environment 4. An inner surface 31 of the wall 20, facing away from the outer surface 30, faces the interior 3. For example, the support unit 29 is screwed, riveted, glued, and / or welded to the outer surface 30. The support unit 29 can also be integrated into the wall 20 in such a way that it does not protrude beyond the outer surface 30.

[0082] The support unit 29 can surround the hatch opening 21 in a frame-like shape. If the hatch opening 21 is round, the support unit 29 can be ring-shaped and surround the hatch opening 21. The support unit 29 does not necessarily have to completely surround the hatch opening 21. Several support units 29 can also be provided, oriented differently. Fig. 2 for example, above, below, to the left and / or to the right of the hatch opening 21.

[0083] In addition to the protective cover 28 included in the carrier unit 29, the rollover protection system 19A has at least one actuator 32 ( Fig. 2 ) on. Several actuators 32 can be provided. If several protective covers 28 are provided, several actuators 32 are also provided. Only one actuator 32 is discussed below. The actuator 32 can be a gas generator. In particular, the actuator 32 can be a pyrotechnic gas generator, a cold gas generator, or a hybrid gas generator. The actuator 32 can also be attached to the outside 30. With the help of the actuator 32, the protective cover 28 can be unfolded, inflated, or unrolled. The actuator 32 can be integrated into the carrier unit 29.

[0084] The rollover protection system 19A further includes a sensor array 33. The sensor array 33 can comprise a wide variety of sensors. For example, the sensor array 33 can have one or more tilt sensors, one or more position sensors, one or more acceleration sensors, or the like. The sensor array 33 is operatively connected to a control unit 34 of the rollover protection system 19A. The operative connection can be wired or wireless. The control unit 34 can be an internal vehicle system, such as a CAN node (Controller Area Network), or any electronic control unit. The control unit 34 is in turn operatively connected to the actuator 32. Here, too, the operative connection can be wired or wireless. The control unit 34 serves to evaluate data and to transmit control signals to the actuator 32.

[0085] With the aid of the sensor 33, for example, a movement or tilting of the vehicle 1 around the x-direction x, around the y-direction y and / or around the z-direction z can be detected. The movement or tilting of the vehicle 1 can be a combined roll, yaw and / or pitch movement. If a certain preset tilting limit is exceeded, such that a rollover of the vehicle 1 is to be expected, the control unit 34 controls the actuator 32 in such a way that it opens the protective cover 28 from a rolled-up or folded state Z1 ( Fig. 3 ) into a rolled-up or unfolded state Z2 ( Fig. 4 ) unfolded or unrolled. In the unfolded state Z2, the protective cover 28 occupies a multiple of the space occupied by the protective cover 28 in the folded state Z1.

[0086] The sensor assembly 33 can also include one or more sensors suitable for detecting whether the hatch cover 22 is open or closed. If the hatch cover 22 is closed, the rollover protection system 19A, and in particular the actuator 32, can be deactivated. This prevents the rollover protection system 19A from being unintentionally triggered when the hatch opening 21 is closed. As mentioned above, the sensor assembly 33 can therefore be suitable for detecting whether the hatch cover 22 is open or closed. In the simplest case, the closed hatch cover 22 opens or closes a switch mounted on the hatch opening 21 or on the hatch cover 22, which can be part of the sensor assembly 33.

[0087] The rollover detection sensor 33 can also be used for other components of vehicle 1 that require specific positional information. This applies, for example, to the weapon sensors of armament 16.

[0088] To unfold or unroll the protective cover 28, the actuator 32 can, for example, release a fluid 35 abruptly or explosively. If several actuators 32 are used, they fill the protective cover 28 together with the fluid 35. The fluid 35 can be a gas or a liquid. Moving the protective cover 28 from the folded state Z1 to the unfolded state Z2 can occur within fractions of a second, for example, within approximately 20 to 50 milliseconds.

[0089] When the fluid 35 is released, the protective cover 28 unrolls or unfolds, thereby opening the carrier unit 29 and the protective cover 28 unfolds out of the carrier unit 29 into the unfolded state Z2. For this purpose, the carrier unit 29 may have one or more flaps or a predetermined breaking point 36 ( Fig. 2 ) in the form of a perforation along which the carrier unit 29 opens and releases the protective cover 28. The protective cover 28, however, remains firmly connected to the carrier unit 29 or to the outer surface 30 of the wall 20.

[0090] In the embodiment of the rollover protection system 19A according to the Fig. 2 bis 4 The protective cover 28 is a single piece and, in the unfolded state Z2, forms a ring-shaped or donut-shaped geometry that completely surrounds the hatch opening 21, as shown in the Fig. 4 As shown, if the support unit 29 is frame-shaped, the unfolded protective cover 28 also has a frame-shaped geometry. If the support unit 29 is, for example, ring-shaped, the unfolded protective cover 28 is also ring-shaped. The protective cover 28 can also be elliptical or have any other arbitrary geometry.

[0091] In the event of a rollover, vehicle 1 now falls onto the deployed protective cover 28, giving crew member 27, who is driving over the hatch, valuable seconds to retreat completely into the interior 3 and avoid injury. If crew member 27 is standing, they can duck away if vehicle 1 rolls over. In its deployed state Z2, the protective cover 28 encloses areas of crew member 27, such as their head, that protrude from the hatch opening 21 into the surrounding area 4. Specifically, the protective cover 28 can also completely enclose or enclose these areas of crew member 27.

[0092] In this context, a "rollover" is understood to mean, in particular, that the vehicle 1 rotates at least onto its roof 5 or its front wall 6. However, this does not preclude the vehicle 1 from rotating completely at least once during a rollover, i.e., by 360°, or even multiple times around the x-direction x, the y-direction y and / or the z-direction z.

[0093] If crew member 27 is seated on a support element 37, they can retract their head or tilt it to the side. In the event of a rollover of vehicle 1, crew member 27 is thus protected from direct contact with objects in the vicinity 4 or with the ground 18. Furthermore, crew member 27 cannot be trapped under the overturned vehicle 1. The protective cover 28 therefore provides reliable protection for crew member 27 in the event of a rollover of vehicle 1. This prevents serious or even fatal injuries to crew member 27.

[0094] Optionally, the support element 37 can be automatically retracted into the interior 3 simultaneously with the activation of the actuator 32, so that in the event of a rollover of the vehicle 1, the crew member 27 is completely inside the interior 3. For this purpose, the support element 37 can be suspended from the vehicle body 2, in particular from the roof 5 or the front wall 6. The crew member 27 is strapped to or onto the support element 37, so that the crew member 27 cannot be ejected from the vehicle body 2 in the event of a rollover of the vehicle 1.

[0095] The support element 37 can be a seat for crew member 27. Accordingly, the terms "support element" and "seat" can be used interchangeably. Alternatively, the support element 37 can also be a standing platform for crew member 27. However, it is assumed below that the rollover protection system 19A includes a support element 37 in the form of a seat. The support element 37 can be suspended from the wall 20, as will be explained below.

[0096] The support element 37 is associated with an adjustment unit 38, with the aid of which the support element 37 can be moved along and against the y-direction y, as shown in the Fig. 3 and 4as indicated by a double arrow 39. If the support element 37 is a seat, the adjustment unit 38 can accordingly be referred to as a seat adjustment unit. Therefore, the terms "adjustment unit" and "seat adjustment unit" are interchangeable in this context.

[0097] The adjustment unit 38 can be driven, for example, hydraulically or pneumatically. Furthermore, the adjustment unit 38 can also be driven by means of a pyrotechnic gas generator. The adjustment unit 38 can be suspended from the vehicle cell 2, in particular from the inside 31 of the wall 20, by means of a suspension 40. The suspension 40 can be strut-shaped. The suspension 40 can be constructed of tubes. The support element 37 and / or the adjustment unit 38 can be part of the rollover protection system 19A.

[0098] The adjustment unit 38 is operatively connected to the control unit 34. This operative connection can be wireless or wired. For example, in the event of a rollover of the vehicle 1, the control unit 34 controls the adjustment unit 38 such that the support element 37, together with the crew member 27, moves downwards in the opposite direction y, as shown in the Fig. 4 as indicated by arrow 41. The time period during which the protective shell 28 collapses again can thus be used to retract the support element 37 into the interior 3 and thereby protect the crew member 27 from injury.

[0099] The protective shell 28 can have an additional function. It can also serve as protection against small-caliber firearms, for example, up to 7.62 × 51 mm NATO caliber. For this purpose, the protective shell 28 can, for example, contain aramid fibers, particularly Kevlar. The protective shell 28 can thus stop and / or deflect projectiles up to the aforementioned exemplary caliber. To provide protection against incendiary ammunition that penetrates the protective shell 28, the fluid 35 can be flame-retardant. The protective shell 28 itself can also be made of a flame-retardant material. For example, intumescent materials can be used. Such intumescent materials increase in volume and correspondingly decrease in density when exposed to heat.

[0100] To enable the protective shell 28 to be used for protection against gunfire, a switch 42 can be provided, allowing the crew member 27 to directly trigger the actuator 32 to deploy the protective shell 28 without the vehicle 1 rolling over. In this case, the sensor 33 is bypassed. Simultaneously, as previously explained, the support element 37 can be retracted into the interior 3. The switch 42 can be operatively connected to the control unit 34 wirelessly or via a wired connection. Alternatively, a direct operative connection between the switch 42 and the actuator 32 can be provided. In this case, retraction of the support element 37 is not necessary.

[0101] Additionally or alternatively, a gunshot detection sensor 43 can also be provided, which detects, for example, a shot fired in the direction of the vehicle 1, for example, optically and / or acoustically. The gunshot detection sensor 43 can be mounted externally on the wall 20. For example, the gunshot detection sensor 43 can have several sensors that are mounted at different positions on the vehicle 1. The gunshot detection sensor 43 is functionally connected to the control unit 34. The functional connection can be wired or wireless.

[0102] Based on sensor signals from the shot detection sensor 43, the control unit 34 decides whether a fired projectile can harm crew member 27 or not. If the probability of damage to crew member 27 from the projectile is predefined, the control unit 34 activates the actuator 32 to move the protective cover 28 from the folded state Z1 to the unfolded state Z2. The shot detection sensor 43 can be activated or deactivated. An optional additional switch 44 may be provided for this purpose.

[0103] Alternatively, switch 42 can also be used to activate or deactivate the shot detection sensor 43. Thus, for example, actuating switch 42 does not directly control the actuator 32, but only activates the shot detection sensor 43. Preferably, however, the shot detection sensor 43 has a separate switch 44. With regard to switches 42 and 44, the term "switch" can also refer to an area of ​​a touchscreen on a computer or other operating unit. This computer can be part of the control unit 34.

[0104] The Fig. 5 shows a schematic sectional view of an embodiment of a protective cover 28 as previously mentioned. Fig. 6 shows another schematic sectional view of the protective cover 28. The following refers to the Fig. 5 und 6 Reference was made at the same time.

[0105] The Fig. 5 shows a sectional view of the protective cover 28, in which the orientation of the Fig. 4 The head of crew member 27 would be positioned to the right of the sectional view. This means that a space filled with fluid 35 is provided to the left of the protective cover 28. The protective cover 28 is multilayered and comprises an outer layer 45 facing crew member 27, which is preferably soft so that no injuries occur if the head of crew member 27 comes into contact with the outer layer 45 during a sudden unfolding or inflation of the protective cover 28. For example, the outer layer 45 can be a non-woven material or another soft fabric. The outer layer 45 is not necessarily fluid-tight.

[0106] Facing the fluid 35, the protective cover 28 has an at least partially fluid-tight inner layer 46, which retains the fluid 35 within the protective cover 28 for at least a certain period of time. The inner layer 46 can be a polyamide fabric. The inner layer 46 can be coated or uncoated. The protective cover 28 can have openings through which the fluid 35 can escape from the unfolded or inflated protective cover 28 in a controlled manner, causing it to collapse after a few seconds. The inner layer 46 can be tubular.

[0107] The Fig. 6 shows a sectional view of the protective cover 28, in which the orientation of the Fig. 6 To the right of the sectional view is the space filled with fluid 35. Here, too, the protective shell 28 is multi-layered and comprises the previously mentioned inner layer 46 and an outer layer 47 facing the environment 4. In contrast to the outer layer 45 facing the crew member 27, the outer layer 47 is not soft, but as rigid as possible to prevent damage to the protective shell 28 from branches, splinters, or gunfire.

[0108] The outer layer 47 can be made of or comprise an aramid fabric. Furthermore, the outer layer 47 can also be covered with ceramic tiles to increase protection against gunfire. The outer layer 45 facing the crew member 27 and the outer layer 47 of the protective shell 28 facing the environment can be firmly connected to each other, in particular sewn together.

[0109] The Fig. 7 Figure 1 shows a schematic sectional view of another embodiment of a rollover protection system 19B as previously described. Fig. 8 This shows another schematic sectional view of the rollover protection system 19B. The following refers to the... Fig. 7 and 8 Reference was made at the same time.

[0110] The rollover protection system 19B is essentially identical in design and functionality to the rollover protection system 19A. Therefore, the following discussion will focus solely on the differences between the rollover protection system 19B and the rollover protection system 19A. All previous statements concerning the rollover protection system 19A are applicable to the rollover protection system 19B and vice versa.

[0111] In contrast to rollover protection system 19A, rollover protection system 19B does not have exactly one protective cover 28 surrounding the hatch opening 21, but rather two protective covers 48, 49, which are contained within two support units 50, 51 in a folded state Z1 as previously described. Each support unit 50, 51 is assigned an actuator 32 (not shown) as previously described.

[0112] The number of carrier units 50, 51, and thus also of protective covers 48, 49, is arbitrary. For example, exactly two carrier units 50, 51 with two protective covers 48, 49 are provided. The carrier units 50, 51 are strip-shaped and are oriented in the Fig. 7 and 8 The support units 50 and 51 are positioned in front of and behind the hatch opening 21, viewed along the x-direction x. Additionally or alternatively, they can also be arranged to the right and left of the hatch opening 21.

[0113] If the rollover protection system 19B is triggered, as previously explained with reference to the rollover protection system 19A, in the event of a rollover or imminent rollover of the vehicle 1, the protective covers 48, 49 are opened by the actuators 32 by the Fig. 7 the folded state Z1 shown in the Fig. 8 The unfolded state Z2 shown. In the unfolded state Z2, the protective covers 48, 49 are plate-shaped or mat-shaped. The protective covers 48, 49 run obliquely over the head of crew member 27 and contact each other, forming a dome-shaped or roof-shaped shelter 52 above the hatch opening 21. The shelter 52 can also be described as dome-shaped.

[0114] It is also possible to provide four support units 50, 51, in which case four protective covers 48, 49, in particular triangular ones, can also be provided, forming a pyramidal geometry in the unfolded state Z2. In this case, the protective chamber 52 is also pyramidal. The protective covers 48, 49 can assume any three-dimensional shape in the unfolded state Z2. For example, the protective covers 48, 49 can be shell-shaped. Thus, for instance, a hemispherical protective chamber 52 can be realized. The protective chamber 52 can also be frustoconical through a suitable design of the protective covers 48, 49.

[0115] The protective cover 28, 48, 49 of the various embodiments of the rollover protection system 19A, 19B can each be made of or comprise a metallic material. For example, the protective cover 28, 48, 49 can be a bellows made of a metal sheet. In this case, the actuator 32 could have one or more spring elements suitable for moving the metallic protective cover 28, 48, 49 from the folded state Z1 to the unfolded state Z2 in the event of a rollover of the vehicle 1. Furthermore, even if the protective cover 28, 48, 49 is a metallic bellows, the actuator 32 can abruptly release a fluid 35 to move the protective cover 28, 48, 49 from the folded state Z1 to the unfolded state Z2.

[0116] In principle, the protective cover 28, 48, 49 can be made of or comprise any materials. For example, the protective cover 28, 48, 49 can comprise metallic materials, ceramic materials, composite materials, in particular fiber-reinforced composites, and / or fiber materials, in particular woven or non-woven fabrics, for example comprising glass fibers, carbon fibers, boron fibers, aramid fibers, metal fibers, or the like. The protective cover 28, 48, 49 can be coated or vapor-deposited with any materials.

[0117] In summary, the functionality of the rollover protection system 19A, 19B is as follows: the control unit 34 detects, based on sensor signals from the sensor system 33, a rollover of the vehicle 1 or a threshold value for a tilting of the vehicle 1 about the x-direction x and / or the z-direction z, at which a rollover of the vehicle 1 is to be expected. The actuator 32 is not activated and the protective cover 28, 48, 49 is in the folded state Z1 within the respective carrier unit 29, 50, 51.

[0118] Upon detection of a rollover of vehicle 1, the actuator 32 is activated by the control unit 34 and, by moving the protective cover 28, 48, 49 from the folded state Z1 to the unfolded state Z2, creates protection around the crew member 27 within a few hundred milliseconds. This operating principle effectively protects the crew member 27 from injury in the event of a rollover of vehicle 1.

[0119] The actuator 32 or actuators 32 represent the physical conversion of energy. Only one actuator 32 will be discussed below. As mentioned previously, the rollover protection system 19A, 19B can also have several actuators 32. The actuator 32 can function in a variety of ways. Only some possible operating principles of the actuator 32 are explained below. The actuator 32 can function mechanically. In this case, the actuator 32 can, for example, have spring elements, in particular pre-tensioned spring assemblies.

[0120] Furthermore, the actuator 32 can operate hydraulically. In this case, for example, a simple or telescopic hydraulic cylinder can be used as the actuator 32. An electrically operated actuator 32 is also possible. For example, a motor with an adjustment device can be used as the actuator 32. As mentioned previously, the actuator 32 can also contain an explosive charge.

[0121] Compressed gases, liquids, or solids, in particular shape-memory metals or springs, can be used to deploy the protective shell 28, 48, 49. If a compressed gas is used as the fluid 35, it can be released mechanically, for example. In this case, a mechanical spring assembly can, for instance, force the gaseous fluid 35 from a piston and / or a reservoir into the protective shell 28, 48, 49. Furthermore, the fluid 35, in the form of a compressed gas, can also be released electrically. In this case, an electromechanical valve can open a pressurized gas container. In the event of an explosive release of the fluid 35, an explosive charge generates a released gas mixture that flows into the protective shell 28, 48, 49.

[0122] If a liquid is used as Fluid 35, it can be released mechanically, electrically, hydraulically, or explosively. In mechanical release, a mechanical spring assembly forces the Fluid 35, in liquid form, from a piston and / or a reservoir into the protective casing 28, 48, 49. In hydraulic release, the actuator 32 fills the protective casing 28, 48, 49 with hydraulic overpressure from a reservoir. In explosive release of the Fluid 35, in liquid form, an explosive charge forces the liquid into the protective casing 28, 48, 49.

[0123] When a solid material is used for the actuator 32, the unfolding of the protective cover 28, 48, 49 is mechanical. In this case, pre-tensioned springs can extend the protective cover 28, 48, 49. These springs can be arranged in a fence-like or grid-like pattern. Components made of shape-memory alloys can also be used for unfolding the protective cover 28, 48, 49.

[0124] As mentioned previously, the actuator 32 can also release the fluid 35 in liquid form to move the protective cover 28, 48, 49 from the folded state Z1 to the unfolded state Z2. For this purpose, the fluid 35 can be stored under pressure in a reservoir. The fluid 35 can also be an expanding foam. Furthermore, combinations of the aforementioned operating principles are also possible. In particular, electromechanical operating principles can be used. Any combination of actuators 32 with different operating principles is also possible.

[0125] The conversion of energy is, in particular, an irreversible process. This means that once the protective shell 28, 48, 49 has unfolded, this unfolding process cannot be reversed. The technical design of the actuator 32 used must always be considered in combination with the respective chosen structure of the protective shell 28, 48, 49.

[0126] The protective shell 28, 48, 49 has the function, upon activation, of protecting the crew member 27 in areas outside the vehicle's geometry from contact with the environment 4 in the event of a rollover of the vehicle 1. The properties of the protective shell 28, 48, 49 are designed such that the outer layer 45 facing the crew member 27 provides sufficient protection for the crew member 27, while the outer layer 47 facing the environment 4 is designed to withstand the greatest possible mechanical stress. The protective shell 28, 48, 49, including the outer layer 47, must be able to withstand sharp objects such as stones or branches.

[0127] The inner layer 46 between the outer layers 45, 47 can hold the fluid 35 for unfolding the protective cover 28, 48, 49, depending on the actuator 32 used. If the actuator 32 operates without such a fluid 35, the inner layer 46 can be omitted.

[0128] The technical implementation of the protective cover 28, 48, 49 can be carried out in different ways. The protective cover 28 can be, as in the Fig. 2 bis 4 The protective shell 28 can be constructed from a single element, which, for example, extends from front to back and / or from left to right over crew member 27. Alternatively, the protective shell 28 can be constructed from several elements, or several protective shells 48, 49 can be provided, which extend over crew member 27 from different directions, in particular from more than two directions.

[0129] Furthermore, any other geometries can also be generated using the protective shell 28, 48, 49. Besides the previously mentioned dome-like design, simple geometries such as ellipses or a shape like the one in the Fig. 2 bis 4 The square circular shape shown around crew member 27 is possible to achieve the desired protective effect. REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0130] 1 Vehicle 2 Vehicle cell 3 Interior 4 Surroundings 5 ​​Roof 6 Front wall 7 Wheel axle 8 Wheel axle 9 Wheel axle 10 Wheel axle 11 Wheel 12 Wheel 13 Wheel 14 Wheel 15 Turret 16 Armament 17 Pivot 18 Ground 19A Rollover protection system 19B Rollover protection system 20 Wall 21 Hatch opening 22 Hatch cover 23 Pivot 24 Hinge 25 Hinge 26 Locking unit 27 Crew member 28 Protective cover 29 Carrier unit 30 Exterior 31 Interior 32 Actuator 33 Sensor 34 Control unit 35 Fluid 36 Shear point 37 Support element 38 Adjustment unit 39 Double arrow 40 Suspension 41 Arrow 42 Switch 43 Shot detection sensor 44 Switch 45 Outer layer 46 Inner layer 47 Outer layer 48 Protective cover 49 Protective cover 50 Carrier unit 51 Carrier unit 52 Shelter F Direction of travel g Direction of gravity G Weight force xx direction yy direction zz direction Z1 State Z2 State

Claims

1. Protected vehicle (1), comprising at least one rollover protection system (19A, 19B), wherein the rollover protection system (19A, 19B) comprises: a protective hull (28, 48, 49) for protecting a crew member (27) being located partially inside and partially outside the protected vehicle (1) in the event of a rollover of the protected vehicle (1), an actor (32) assigned to the protective hull (28, 48, 49), wherein the actor (32) is configured to transfer the protective hull (28, 48, 49) from a folded state (Z1) to an unfolded state (Z2) immediately before or during the rollover of the protected vehicle (1), and wherein the rollover protection system (19A, 19B) is mounted on the protected vehicle (1) in such a way that the protective hull (28, 48, 49) is arranged at least partially outside the protected vehicle (1) in the unfolded state (Z2) and thus at least partially envelops regions of the crew member (27) which are arranged outside the protected vehicle (1) during the rollover, such that the protected vehicle (1) initially rests on the protective hull (28, 48, 49) in the event of a rollover, a sensor technology (33) configured to detect a tilting of the protected vehicle (1) about at least one spatial direction (x, y, z), a controlling and steering unit (34) configured to control the actor (32) based on sensor signals from the sensor technology (33) in such a way that the actor (32) transfers the protective hull (28, 48, 49) from the folded state (Z1) to the unfolded state (Z2) immediately before or during the rollover of the protected vehicle (1), a carrier element (37) for carrying the crew member (27), and an adjustment unit (38) for adjusting a height position of the carrier element (37), wherein the controlling and steering unit (34) is configured to control the adjustment unit (38) based on sensor signals from the sensor technology (33) in such a way that the adjustment unit (38) adjusts the height position of the carrier element (37) immediately before or during the rollover of the protected vehicle (1) in such a way that the crew member (27) is completely displaced into the protected vehicle (1).

2. Protected vehicle according to claim 1, characterized by a plurality of protective hulls (48, 49) which, in their unfolded state (Z2), form a protective room (52), which is separated from a surroundings (4) of the protected vehicle (1), around the regions of the crew member (27) which are arranged outside the protected vehicle (1).

3. Protected vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a carrier unit (29, 50, 51) in which the protective hull (28, 48, 49) is accommodated in the folded state (Z1), wherein the protective hull (28, 48, 49) is arranged at least partially outside the carrier unit (29, 50, 51) in the unfolded state (Z2).

4. Protected vehicle according to claim 3, characterized in that the protective hull (28, 48, 49) opens the carrier unit (29, 50, 51), in particular along a predetermined breaking line (36), when it is transferred from the folded state (Z1) to the unfolded state (Z2).

5. Protected vehicle according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the carrier unit (29, 50, 51) can be mounted on an outer side (30) of the protected vehicle (1).

6. Protected vehicle according to any one of claims 3 - 5, characterized by a plurality of carrier units (50, 51), wherein each carrier unit (50, 51) is assigned one protective hull (48, 49).

7. Protected vehicle according to any one of claims 1 - 6, characterized in that the protective hull (28, 48, 49) in the unfolded state (Z2) protects the crew member (27) from being shot at.

8. Protected vehicle according to any one of claims 1 - 7, characterized by a switch (42) for triggering the actor (32) so that it transfers the protective hull (28, 48, 49) from the folded state (Z1) to the unfolded state (Z2) without the protected vehicle (1) rolling over.

9. Protected vehicle according to any one of claims 1 - 8, characterized in that the actor (32) fills the protective hull (28, 48, 49) with a fluid (35) to transfer it from the folded state (Z1) to the unfolded state (Z2).

10. Rollover protection system according to any one of claims 1 - 8, characterized in that in that the actor (32) mechanically spans the protective hull (28, 48, 49) to transfer it from the folded state (Z1) to the unfolded state (Z2).

11. Protected vehicle according to any one of claims 1 - 10, characterized in that the protected vehicle (1) comprises a wall (20) with a hatch opening (21), wherein the rollover protection system (19A, 19B) is mounted on the wall (20), and wherein the protective hull (28, 48, 49) runs at least partially around the hatch opening (21) in the unfolded state (Z2).

12. Protected vehicle according to claim 11, characterized in that the protective hull (28, 48, 49) is connected to the wall (20).