Système de marquage de mines

Abstract

The present invention relates to an assembly and a method for marking foreign objects, in particular unexploded ordnance, on the ground. The assembly consists of a rod assembly, a handling aid with a rod extending from and firmly attached to it, an element arranged along the handling aid to increase visibility, flags, and receptacles for glow sticks / lamps / barrier tape. A rod assembly can be inserted into another rod assembly to increase the height of the rod assembly. A further feature of the invention is the application of digitization and the integration of technologies such as QR codes or RFID chips for the unique, unmistakable, and permanent identification and positioning of the marked objects. This technology enables the centralized collection and processing of data as well as the coordination of measures for unexploded ordnance disposal.The system could also be used for other tasks, such as planning and marking out a future camp setup for the troops. Attaching a transmitter module to the staff unit allows for the active dissemination of information to personnel.

Description

field of technology

[0001] The invention relates to the methods and products specified in the preamble of the independent claims. State of the art

[0002] The current state of the art in explosive ordnance control and, in particular, mine marking is based on methods that may appear outdated in view of the rapidly evolving technology and the ever-increasing demands of the military and civilian environment.

[0003] Previous methods of mine marking in a military context rely heavily on manual processes and physical markers. Locations of explosive ordnance, particularly mines and unexploded ordnance (UXO), are identified and marked by soldiers, particularly by explosive ordnance reconnaissance (EOR) units. These markers serve to warn both friendly troops and the civilian population of potential dangers.

[0004] The state of the art in this field is the use of special, color-coded marking poles. These poles are typically about 600 mm long, weigh about 100 g, have a diameter of about 5 mm, and are made of metal. At the top of the pole is a ring-shaped eyelet with a diameter of about 35 mm. To mark the location of a discovered explosive ordnance, the pole is inserted into the ground near the object. A colored flag is attached to the pole to increase the visibility of the marker and provide specific information; for example, green indicates a marked path, yellow marks a searched area, and red signals the presence of explosive ordnance.

[0005] In addition to the physical marking, the discovering soldier must complete a report containing details such as the exact location of the ordnance, the type of ordnance (if known), the time of discovery, the reason for the placement or discharge of the ordnance, and any other observations or clues. This report is then written and submitted to the appropriate explosive device disposal (EOD) unit, which then assumes responsibility for the disposal of the ordnance.

[0006] US 6 876 308 B1 discloses the subject matter of the preamble of claim 1.

[0007] US 5 052 329 A describes a probe with a marking function, consisting of a probing rod and a handle. The probing rod is made of a strong, impact-resistant, non-metallic material such as glass-fiber reinforced epoxy resin and has a point at one end. The handle may contain a central recess to accommodate a light stick and openings for attaching a marking tape or cord. In an alternative design, the handle also serves as a protective cover for the probing rod, with the rod being pushed into the handle for storage and can be secured in the handle by means of a threaded stud. The threaded stud has external threads at both ends and can be screwed into an internal thread at the end of the handle, with a knurled surface on the stud facilitating removal and attachment of the rod. Disclosure of the invention

[0008] The invention is set out in the appended claims. Technical task

[0009] The object underlying the invention concerns the identification, marking and subsequent mitigation or elimination of potential hazards, in particular with regard to munitions such as landmines or other explosive objects that have been deposited in or on the ground.

[0010] The traditional method of locating and marking explosive ordnance is time-consuming and potentially dangerous. It requires manual identification and marking of the location, often using improvised or inadequate means to mark the location. This can result in inaccurate or incomplete information about the exact location and type of the discovered object, which can lead to delays and hazards in defusing or removing the object.

[0011] Furthermore, there is a risk that the markers could be removed, moved, or tampered with by third parties, further compromising the safety of bomb disposal teams. Furthermore, these markers can be difficult to see or identify, especially in dense grass or difficult terrain.

[0012] Another problem is the lack of centralized documentation and processing of data on the identified objects and their exact locations. This can significantly complicate the coordination and planning of defusing or clearing operations.

[0013] Overall, there is an urgent need for an efficient, secure, and easy-to-use system for marking and documenting locations and for supporting the planning and execution of defusing or clearance operations. It should also provide a way to protect and secure the markings and associated data against tampering. Technical solution

[0014] As will become apparent from the following description, this problem is solved according to the characterizing part of the independent claims. Beneficial effects

[0015] All embodiments of the invention particularly address the specific needs of operators and soldiers in explosive ordnance disposal. Compared to the state of the art, the mine marking system achieves significant improvements, particularly in terms of material selection, mechanics, and digitalization.

[0016] First of all, the use of plastics and fiber composite materials offers, in addition to the significant weight reduction compared to previous solutions, the advantage of magnetic neutrality, which eliminates interference with the mine detector.

[0017] In terms of mechanics, the handle module or handling aid is firmly connected to the rod and the flag, allowing for a central and clear arrangement of all functional elements. This not only simplifies handling of the system but also helps to accelerate work progress. Furthermore, the mushroom-head geometry of the handle module allows the rod to be inserted into the ground without additional tools and provides a potential impact surface for pressing the rod deeper into the ground. Winding the flag around the handle module and securing it with the locking element prevents uncontrolled unwinding of the flag. The mine marking system is therefore lightweight and compact to transport. Furthermore, no separate fixing material is required.

[0018] The ability to combine multiple mine marking systems into a set and carry them in suitable containers, such as a bag, also facilitates transport and storage. Furthermore, the mine marking system can be easily integrated into the operator's equipment, enabling quick and efficient marking of minefields.

[0019] The use of digitization technologies is another significant advantage of the proposed mine marking system. By affixing a unique and permanent QR code or a similar, distinctive marking to each mine marking system, for example, on the handling aid or handle module and / or on any element designed to increase visibility, such as a flag, important information such as the exact position of the mines can be recorded and stored, particularly using a dedicated app. Furthermore, this reference can be used to store additional information, such as observations, object descriptions, and images. This not only allows for immediate and centralized collection and processing of data, but also for coordinated and efficient further processing, ultimately facilitating the defusing of the marked mines.

[0020] Finally, incorporating an electronic storage medium such as an RFID chip into the handle module / handling aid significantly increases the security of the overall process, as the data or position data stored on it can be used to confirm that the mine marking system has not been moved or replaced by tampering. A passive RFID tag, which does not require its own power supply for the handle module, is particularly suitable. Short description of the drawings

[0021] Fig. 1 shows the front view of a first rod assembly with wound flag. Fig. 2 shows the front view of the first rod assembly with the flag unwound. Fig. 3 shows the Fig. 2 from the left. Fig. 4 shows the front view of the first rod assembly with the locking element released. Fig. 5 shows the first rod assembly with secured barrier tape. Fig. 6shows the front view of the first rod assembly into which another first rod assembly is inserted. Fig. 7 shows Fig. 3 with a glow stick mounted horizontally. Fig. 8 shows rear view of Fig. 4 with glow stick as in Fig. 7 snapped into recess. Fig. 9 shows an upper section of the handle module of the first rod assembly with a vertically inserted glow stick. Fig. 10 shows a section of a handle module with two "side-locked" glow sticks and another free interface for a glow stick. Fig. 11 shows front view of a second rod assembly with unwound, two-colored flag, bent glow stick and elastic locking cord. Fig. 12 shows Fig. 11 from the left. Fig. 13 shows Fig. 11 from above. Fig. 14 shows Fig. 11 in isometric view from below. Fig. 15 shows Fig. 11with QR code on the flag and RFID chip / transmitter module permanently integrated in the handling aid / handle module. Description of the execution types

[0022] A summary of the drawings 1 to 10 illustrates the structure of a first rod assembly (10) according to the invention for marking foreign bodies, in particular munitions, on the ground.

[0023] A rod (20) made of a fiber-reinforced, preferably glass-fiber-reinforced, composite material runs along the underside of the rod assembly (10). This rod (20) serves to securely anchor the rod assembly (10) in the ground and ensure the necessary stability.

[0024] The rod (20) preferably has a cylindrical cross-section and is preferably made of solid material, but may also have any other cross-section, for example a square cross-section, a rectangular cross-section, a T-shaped cross-section or a cross-shaped cross-section.

[0025] The rod (20) can also be designed as a hollow body (20) and thus as a tube (20).

[0026] In the upper area of ​​the rod assembly (10), a handle module (11) or handling aid (11) is arranged on the rod (20). This handle module is elongated and has a mushroom-shaped (12) and thus blunt top. This shape serves to improve comfort when handling the rod assembly (10) and also serves as a pressure surface when the rod (20) is driven into the ground.

[0027] At least one visibility-enhancing element (23), for example a flag (23), is arranged along the handle module (11). The flag (23) is made of a thermoplastic film, such as a polyethylene, polyamide, polycarbonate, or polyester film. Likewise, the flag (23) can also be made of a thermosetting film, a plastic fabric, a textile fabric, any material, at least one plastic plate, or the like. The flag (23) serves as a visible marking element and can also bear information or markings—such as, for example and preferably, a QR code (26)—which are necessary for clear and permanent, and thus unmistakable, identification or further processing.

[0028] The QR code can preferably be printed on the flag (23), but can also be applied to the flag (23) in any other way, such as with a laser or with a sticker.

[0029] The flag (23) is preferably at least bicolored, partially in a signal color (24), such as red, and partially in a contrasting color (25), such as white, to increase visibility even at greater distances. Applied color patterns may also be repeated.

[0030] The handle module (11) can also - like the flag (23) - carry information or markings that are necessary for clear, unmistakable and permanent identification or further processing.

[0031] The position of the flag (23) can be fixed by a position-adjustable, for example pivotable, locking element (15) mounted on the handle module (11). The locking element (15) allows the flag (23) to be secured in a wound position around the handle module (11), from which it can be unwound as needed.

[0032] Furthermore, the handle module (11) can have at least one preferably integral interface (13), for example a suspension or holding eyelet (13), for example for a glow stick (30) and / or a lamp (30). The suspension or holding eyelets (13) can be designed such that glow sticks (30) and / or lamps (30) of different sizes and diameters can be inserted through the recesses (13) or snapped into the receptacles (13) and can then be securely held on the handle module (11) and thus on the rod assembly (10). This detail demonstrates the sophisticated functionality of the rod assembly (10), which is designed for practical and versatile use.

[0033] The various components of the rod assembly (10), i.e. the handle module (11), the rod (20), the flag (23) and the locking element (15), are permanently connected to one another and are preferably made of plastic or fiber composite material to ensure a robust yet lightweight construction.

[0034] For digital tracking and processing of the foreign bodies marked with the rod assembly (10), the rod assembly (10) is uniquely identified by a passive RFID tag (27) in or on the handle module (11), on which, for example, contact information for explosive ordnance disposal can also be stored. It is understood that the marking may also be implemented using another storage medium or a QR code (26) on the flag (23) or the handle module (11) without departing from the scope of the invention; the same applies to an assembly (10) without any marking (26, 27).

[0035] In a further variant, for example, an active, electronic transmitter module (27), for example and preferably with an integrated GPS transmitter / receiver module, can be attached to the handle module (11) and thus to the rod assembly (10), which continuously or cyclically transmits a signal to warn people, equipped for example with a suitable app on their smartphone or people with special receiving devices, of foreign objects found, in particular explosive devices, which have been marked with the rod assembly (10).

[0036] The transmitter module (27) can be activated and thus switched on by the operator after the rod assembly (10) has been inserted into the ground to mark foreign objects, in particular explosive ordnance.

[0037] In this case, for example, the coordinates of foreign bodies found, in particular ordnance, which have been marked with the rod assembly (10), can be displayed directly on the smartphone and / or the receiving device and / or the rod assembly (10) which marks the foreign bodies found, in particular ordnance, can be located.

[0038] The attachment of an electronic transmitter module (27) does not affect the previously described, unique, unmistakable, and permanent identification of the rod assembly (10). All described components can be attached to the rod assembly (10) independently of one another and can be used independently of one another and / or together.

[0039] In one variant, the tasks of the RFID chip (27) can be taken over by the electronic transmission module (27) and / or the RFID chip (27) can be an integral part of the electronic transmission module (27).

[0040] The handle module (11), the rod (20), the flag (23), and the locking element (15) are made of plastic, with at least the rod (20) preferably being glass fiber reinforced due to its mechanical load and being joined to the handle module (11) in the same way as the flag (23) and the locking element (15). For this purpose, the flag (23) can be attached to the handle module (11) - preferably after applying contact information for explosive ordnance defense and a unique code - by, for example, locking it to the handle module (11) or by being molded onto it during the injection molding process. In one variant, for example, the handle module (11) and the flag (23) could be made as a single piece, i.e., from the same material, for example, a thermoplastic or fiber composite material.In a further variant, for example, the handle module (11) and rod (20) could be made of one piece, i.e., from the same material, for example, a thermoplastic or fiber composite. A combination of these variants is also possible.

[0041] Particularly preferably, the element for increasing visibility (23) or the flag (23), the rod (20) and the RFID chip (27) are inserted into the injection mold and the handle module (11) is injection molded using the injection molding process, preferably with at least one interface for receiving a glow stick (30) and / or a lamp (30) and / or a rod (20) of a second rod assembly (10) and / or a locking element (15).

[0042] As delivered, the flag (23) is wound around the handle module (11) and secured in this position with the locking element (15). This prevents it from unwinding uncontrollably. Several such rod assemblies (10) can be combined into a set and packed, for example, in a suitable bag or pouch. The pouches or pouches containing the rod assemblies (10) can be stored, for example, in a leg pocket, bag, or in or on the operator's backpack.

[0043] The function and use of the system in mine marking will now be explained in detail with the aid of the drawings. The operator usually carries out several rod assemblies (10) in the delivery state according to Figure 1 Carry them with you, for example, in a leg pocket or in or on a backpack. This allows for quick access and promotes work progress.

[0044] If the operator encounters a foreign object in or on the ground, he or she picks up a rod assembly (10). He or she grasps the handle module (11) and releases the locking element (15), allowing the flag (23) to unwind. All of these functional elements are clearly arranged and centrally mounted. When the locking element (15) is folded back in, the Figure 2 configuration shown.

[0045] The operator then presses the blunt top surface (12) of the handle module (11) with the heel of their hand to drive the rod (20) into the ground (not shown). This mushroom-shaped geometry (12) of the handle module (11) can also be used as a striking surface (12) for inserting the rod (20) into the ground.

[0046] If necessary, the operator can unroll a barrier tape (29), attach it to the side of the handle module (11) and secure it with the locking element (15) ( Figure 5). The barrier tape (29) does not need to be threaded separately and the roll body of the barrier tape (29) does not get in the way.

[0047] The rod assembly (10) is designed such that a further rod assembly (10) can be inserted with its rod (20) into the upper side (12) of the handle module (11) of another rod assembly (10). Preferably, a locking lug (14) arranged in the handle module (11) of the lower rod assembly (10) engages in a contrary locking groove (22) on the underside of the rod (20) inserted into the handle module (11). The upper rod assembly (10) is thus prevented from uncontrollably leaving the lower rod assembly (10), especially in strong winds. This extension option is particularly useful when an object to be marked is located in high grass and therefore an elevation of the marking position is necessary.

[0048] It is understood that the extension of the rod assembly (10) can also be achieved, for example, by a separate extension element (not shown) which can be connected to the rod (20) or, for example, by a telescopic rod (20) (not shown).

[0049] The aforementioned at least one suspension or holding eyelet (13) on the handle module (11) offers the operator the option of attaching a glow stick (30) or a lamp (30). This allows the rod assembly (10) to be better and earlier detected, especially at dusk or at night.

[0050] The receiving geometry and thus interface in the top side (12) of the handle module (11) in order to be able to insert a second rod assembly (10) with its rod (20) ( Fig. 6 ), can also be used to hold a glow stick (30) or a lamp (30) ( Fig. 9 ).

[0051] Beyond these mechanical functions, the clear, unmistakable and permanent marking (26, 27) on / in the handle module (11) and / or flags (23) opens up considerable digitalization potential that benefits the operator and the entire explosive ordnance disposal unit.

[0052] For this purpose, the unique and permanent identification (26, 27) is scanned or read, for example, using a standard smartphone, and stored, for example, via a special "bombardment control app." The position coordinates are also automatically stored. A wrist-mounted mini-computer or a "smartwatch" could also be used for this purpose.

[0053] The operator also has the option of adding additional information to the respective location. This can include messages, observations, anomalies, clues, object descriptions, images, etc. This allows all object information to be collected centrally and processed without delay. The resulting work at the designated locations, such as the defusing of a mine, can be coordinated centrally.

[0054] The information system also enables EOD units and their troop formations to access all available information at any time and without delay. After completion of work at the respective location, the explosive ordnance disposal app can be used to report completion to the central coordination office.

[0055] When a mine marking system (10) is inserted into the ground near an object to be marked, the determined object information and in particular the position coordinates are also stored, possibly automatically, on the chip (27). The data can be encrypted completely or partially upon storage, for example according to a hierarchical authorization concept. This allows emergency services to quickly determine at a later time what object information is available and, in particular, whether the mine marking system (10) is still in the same, original location. This makes it possible to quickly determine whether the mine marking system (10) has been moved to another location, for example by third parties, or whether several mine marking systems (10) have been swapped.

[0056] As an alternative to an inserted chip (27), the data can also be stored in a database or blockchain, which, however, requires a network connection.

[0057] In addition, the system offers other possible applications, such as planning and marking a future camp setup for the troops or the optimal position for a vehicle or ammunition depot.

[0058] A summary of drawings 11 to 15 shows a structure of a second rod assembly (18) according to the invention for marking foreign bodies, in particular munitions, on the ground.

[0059] In the minimalist design of the second rod assembly (18), particular emphasis was placed on ensuring that the weight can be further reduced compared to the first rod assembly (10) without having to forego essential features of the rod assembly (10) already shown.

[0060] In particular, the handle module (11) was designed to be very slim and the locking element (15) was replaced by an equally easy-to-use stretchable band (19) or a rubber element (19).

[0061] The stretchable band (19) or the rubber element (19) can be used not only to fix a wound-up flag (23) and / or a barrier tape (29), but also to fix a glow stick (30) and / or a lamp (30) to the handle module (11).

[0062] The possibility of inserting a second rod assembly (18) into a first rod assembly (18) in the upper side (12) of the handle module (11) is not shown in this embodiment.

[0063] With the embodiment of the rod assembly (18), a weight of the mine marking system of ≤ 50% compared to the state of the art can be achieved. List of reference symbols

[0064] Reference symbol Description 10 Mine marking system; first rod assembly; rod assembly 11 Handle module; handling aid 12 Mushroom head; blunt top; striking surface 13 Recess; receptacle; interface; suspension and holding eyelet 14 locking lug 15 Locking element 16 pivot bearing 17 Rest area 18 Second rod assembly 19 Stretchable band; elastic cord; rubber element 20 rod; tube 21 Great 22 locking groove 23 Element to increase visibility; flags 24 Signal color (e.g. red) 25 Contrasting color (e.g. white) 26 QR code 27 RFID chip; storage medium, transmitter module 29 barrier tape 30 Glow stick, lamp 31 Ribbon / cord end

Claims

1. Rod assembly (10, 18) for marking foreign bodies, in particular explosive ordnance, on the ground, equipped with a handling aid (11), which is an elongate handle module (11) with a blunt upper side (12), a rod (20) extending opposite the upper side (12) in extension of the handle module (11) and an element for increasing visibility (23) arranged on the handle module (11), wherein the handle module (11), the rod (20) and the element for increasing the visibility (23) are permanently and firmly connected to one another and at least one component of the rod assembly (10, 18) is provided with at least one unique, unmistakable and permanent, preferably digital marking (26, 27), characterized in that the rod assembly (10) is designed such that a further rod assembly (10) can be inserted with its rod (20) into the upper side (12) of the handle module (11).

2. Rod assembly (10, 18) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one unique, unmistakable and permanent, preferably digital identification (26, 27) is a passive RFID tag (27), preferably in or on the handling aid (11), and / or a QR code (26) on the element for increasing visibility (23) and / or the handling aid (11).

3. Rod assembly (10, 18) according to claims 1 and 2, wherein the rod (20) consists of a fiber-reinforced, preferably glass fiber-reinforced fiber composite material.

4. Rod assembly (10, 18) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the element for increasing the visibility (23) consists of thermoplastic and / or thermosetting film and / or plastic fabric and / or textile fabric and / or any fabric and / or at least one plastic plate.

5. Rod assembly (10, 18) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a locking element (15) is arranged on the handle module (11), for example to secure an element for increasing the visibility (23) in the wound-up position and / or a barrier tape and / or a bending light (30) and / or a lamp (30).

6. Rod assembly (10, 18) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the handle module (11) preferably comprises at least one interface (13), for example for receiving a kink light (30) and / or a lamp (30).

7. Method for manufacturing the rod assembly (10, 18) according to claim 5, characterized by the following steps: at least the handle module (11) is injection molded and the rod (20), the element for increasing visibility (23), and the locking element (15) are joined to the handle module (11).

8. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the element for increasing the visibility (23), the rod (20) and the RFID chip (27) are inserted into the injection mold during injection molding and the handle module (11) is injection-molded with preferably at least one interface for receiving a bending light (30) and / or a lamp (30) and / or a rod (20) of a second rod assembly (10, 18) and / or a locking element (15).

9. Method of using the rod assembly (10, 18) according to claims 1 to 6, comprising the following steps: the rod assembly (10, 18) is stowed, preferably together with further rod assemblies (10, 18) of identical construction, for example in a leg bag, pocket or in or on a backpack, a foreign object in or on the ground is detected, the rod assembly (10, 18) is gripped with one hand, the locking element (15) is released so that the element unwinds or unfolds to increase visibility (23), the rod (20) is driven into the ground, for example by pressing on the top (12) with the ball of the hand, the marking (26, 27) is scanned or read out, for example by means of a smartphone or a mini-computer, and stored centrally or decentrally together with associated location coordinates and preferably with images and further information on the marked assembly (10, 18), and, if necessary, barrier tape (29) is applied to the side of the handling aid (11) and secured with the locking element (15) and, if necessary, a kink light (30) or a lamp (30) is activated and attached to the rod assembly (10, 18), characterized in that the stored location coordinates of the rod assembly (10, 18) are compared with the actual location coordinates of the rod assembly (10, 18) before removal or disarming of the foreign object.

10. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the rod (20) of one of the further rod assemblies (10, 18) is inserted into the upper side (12) of the handling aid (11).

11. Method according to claims 9 to 10, wherein the storing takes place in a blockchain.

12. Method according to the preceding claims 9 to 11, wherein the location coordinates are stored, preferably automatically and / or with an external aid, on a storage medium in or on the rod assembly (10, 18) when its rod (20) has been driven into the ground.

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