Tracer projectile having at least one colour change

Abstract

The present invention lies in the field of projectile manufacturing. In particular, it concerns tracer projectiles. It is based on the finding that the precision with which a color change occurs in the tracer trail of fired tracer projectiles can be increased through the use of compacted tracer charges. In particular, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a tracer projectile and various tracer projectiles containing compacted tracer charges, as well as a tracer cartridge. Furthermore, tracer charges that can be used in the compacted tracer projectiles and a kit containing components for manufacturing tracer projectiles according to the invention are disclosed. The invention also relates to a method for determining the distance and time of flight of a fired tracer projectile with at least one color change.

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention lies in the field of projectile manufacturing, specifically in tracer projectiles. It is based on the understanding that the precision with which a color change occurs in the tracer of fired tracer projectiles can be increased by using denser phosphor compounds. The invention specifically relates to a method for manufacturing a tracer projectile, various tracer projectiles containing denser phosphor compounds, and a tracer cartridge. Furthermore, phosphor compounds that can be used in the denser tracer projectiles and a kit containing components for manufacturing tracer projectiles according to the invention are disclosed. The invention also relates to a method for determining the distance and flight time of a fired tracer projectile with at least one color change. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Tracer projectiles typically contain a pyrotechnic composition (also called illuminating compound). When a tracer projectile is fired, the pyrotechnic composition ignites and burns in a bright color, so that the projectile's trajectory is usually visible to the naked eye.

[0003] Tracer projectiles are used, for example, to observe and correct the point of impact, but also to give a shooter better orientation regarding the location of the target area or the position of their comrades. Furthermore, there has long been interest in enabling the shooter to estimate the projectile's current distance in flight.

[0004] Various tracer projectiles are known in the prior art, the tracer of which can exhibit several colors or color gradations. These projectiles are characterized by the fact that they contain successively arranged sets of luminous elements emitting different colors.

[0005] Patent GB 392,477 describes tracer projectiles with a color change from green to orange, in which an orange-luminous phosphor is positioned in front of a green-luminous phosphor in the projectile's direction of flight. The orange phosphor, through its combustion following the combustion of the green phosphor, creates the illusion of a "red" tracer for the observer. In reality, an observer perceiving only the orange-luminous trace, or a spectrometer, would perceive the orange trace as orange. An actual color change from green to red is not disclosed. Furthermore, the composition disclosed in the patent, which is used in the tracer projectiles described therein to generate the orange-luminous trace, is highly restricted and is based on a mixture of strontium nitrate and barium nitrate.This is due to the unfavorable hygroscopy of the strontium nitrate used, which necessitates the addition of barium nitrate. Furthermore, no mass ratios of the components of the compositions are provided beyond the ratio of strontium nitrate to barium nitrate.

[0006] Tracer projectiles such as those disclosed in GB 392,477 can only produce an imprecise color transition. During firing, burning, and flight, as well as during improper handling (when the projectiles are subjected to vibration), the luminescent components within the tracer projectile can mix at their interfaces. This results in a longer duration of the generated color change and makes it less precisely adjustable. Furthermore, luminescent components such as those disclosed in GB 392,477 have a short lifespan because they are easily permeated by moisture.

[0007] German patent 1 040 437 discloses a method for manufacturing luminous bodies that can be of different colors and vary in intensity. The pyrotechnic compositions contained in these luminous bodies comprise halogenated ion exchange resins loaded with correspondingly luminous cations. In the manufacturing process described therein, these ion exchange resins are loaded by chromatography, dried, and pressed together with the other components of the luminous compositions.

[0008] The compositions disclosed in 1 040 437 are limited by the requirement that they include ion exchange resins loaded with cations. A manufacturing process based on such ion exchange resins is complex. The resin must first be loaded with color-imparting ions. The dissolved metal salt used for this purpose must be soluble in the solvent and should not react with it. Furthermore, a drying step is necessary to remove the solvent present in the pores of the ion exchange resin as a result of the loading process. This is particularly important in the case of aqueous solvents, as otherwise the durability of the tracer projectile may be compromised. Additional disadvantages of ion exchange resin-based tracer projectiles include the fact that the maximum concentration of color-imparting metal ions in such a projectile is limited by the capacity of the ion exchange resin.

[0009] Overall, the prior art lacks tracer projectiles that produce clean color changes, exhibit high durability, and can be manufactured without ion exchange resins and their associated disadvantages. Furthermore, a simple, applicable method for producing metal salt-based tracer projectiles that allows for a wide range of colors is lacking. These problems are solved by the tracer projectiles according to the invention.

[0010] Furthermore, this document reveals a practical method for the shooter to estimate the instantaneous distance of a projectile in flight. This method is based on the use of tracer projectiles. Using this method, a shooter can determine the distance to objects by observing the color change of the tracer's arc. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] InIn a first aspect, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a tracer projectile for producing a tracer with at least one color change, comprising the following steps in the following order: (i) Inserting a first luminous element of a first color into a projectile and subsequently compacting the first luminous element of the first color within the projectile; (ii) Inserting a second luminous element of a second color into the projectile, such that the second luminous element of the second color is positioned at the rear of the first luminous element of the first color within the projectile; (iii) Inserting an illuminating element into the projectile, such that the illuminating element is positioned at the rear of the second luminous element of the second color within the projectile and subsequently compacting the illuminating element within the projectile.

[0012] In a second aspectThe invention relates to a tracer projectile for producing a tracer with at least one color change, which was manufactured using a method according to one of the aspects disclosed herein.

[0013] In a third aspect The invention relates to a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, comprising at least two dense luminous elements.

[0014] In a fourth aspect The invention relates to a tracer cartridge for generating a tracer, comprising a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change according to one of the other aspects of the invention.

[0015] In a fifth aspect The invention relates to a light assembly for use in a tracer projectile according to another aspect of this invention, comprising (i) Oxidizing agent comprising a coloring metal salt; (ii) Reducing agent comprising a light metal, wherein the light metal constitutes a mass fraction of at least 20% of the luminous composition; wherein the total mass of coloring metal salt in the luminous composition constitutes a mass fraction of at least 50% of the luminous composition.

[0016] In a sixth aspect The invention relates to a luminaire for producing a green luminous trace, comprising (i) Barium salt, preferably barium nitrate, barium peroxide and / or barium carbonate; (ii) Magnesium; (iii) Pergut and / or PVC; (iv) Auxiliary materials, preferably calcium stearate and malachite green.

[0017] In a seventh aspect The invention relates to a luminaire for producing a red luminous trace, comprising (i) Strontium salt, preferably strontium dichlorophthalate, strontium carbonate, strontium nitrate, strontium oxalate and / or strontium peroxide; (ii) Magnesium; (iii) Pergut and / or PVC; (iv) Additives, preferably calcium stearate, calcium oxalate and / or calcium fluoride.

[0018] In an eighth aspect The invention relates to the use of a luminescent composition disclosed herein in a method for producing a tracer projectile with at least one color change.

[0019] In a ninth aspect The invention relates to a kit for manufacturing a tracer projectile for producing a tracer with at least one color change, or a tracer cartridge for producing a tracer, comprising at least two illumination sets of one of the other aspects described herein, and optionally a compressed illumination set.

[0020] In a tenth aspectThe invention relates to a method for determining distance, comprising the following successive steps: (i) Firing a tracer projectile wherein the tracer has at least one color change which begins after the predetermined distance traveled; (ii) Determining the color of the tracer at a point x; which allows the distance to be determined based on the color of the light trail at point x.

[0021] In an eleventh aspect The invention relates to a method for determining the flight time of a tracer projectile, comprising the following successive steps: (i) Firing the tracer projectile, wherein the tracer projectile has at least one color change that begins after a predetermined flight time; (ii) Determining the color of the tracer at a point x; which determines the flight time of the tracer projectile based on the color of the tracer at point x. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The elements of the invention are described below. These elements are listed with specific embodiments, but it should be understood that they can be combined in any way and in any number to create additional embodiments. The various described examples and preferred embodiments are not to be interpreted as limiting the present invention only to the embodiments expressly described. The description is to be understood as supporting and including embodiments that combine two or more of the expressly described embodiments or that combine one or more of the expressly described embodiments with any number of the disclosed and / or preferred elements.Furthermore, any permutations and combinations of all elements described in this application shall be deemed to be disclosed by the description of the present application, unless the context indicates otherwise.

[0023] The aforementioned problems are solved by the present invention. The inventors have been able to increase the precision of the color change of the tracer of tracer projectiles by densifying the illumination, transmission, and ignition components within the projectile. In addition to the advantages described here, these projectiles, due to their increased precision in color change, allow the distance to a target, the flight time of the tracer projectile, or the distance of the tracer projectile to be determined based on the color of the tracer. Furthermore, the increased precision of the color change of the tracer projectiles of the invention also makes it possible to produce tracer projectiles that can exhibit multiple color changes.

[0024] In a first aspectThe invention relates to a method for manufacturing a tracer projectile for producing a tracer with at least one color change, comprising the following steps in the following order: (i) Inserting a first luminous element of a first color into a projectile and subsequently compacting the first luminous element of the first color within the projectile; (ii) Inserting a second luminous element of a second color into the projectile, such that the second luminous element of the second color is positioned at the rear of the first luminous element of the first color within the projectile; (iii) Inserting an illuminating element into the projectile, such that the illuminating element is positioned at the rear of the second luminous element of the second color within the projectile and subsequently compacting the illuminating element within the projectile.

[0025] The term "projectile" as used in this invention describes a projectile that can preferably be fired at a target using a handgun. A "projectile" as used in this invention is preferably for use in a handgun. A projectile in this sense can, in particular, be part of a cartridge which further contains a propellant charge, wherein the projectile is fired through the barrel of the handgun upon activation of the propellant charge. Preferably, the projectile is a projectile of small-caliber, medium-caliber, or large-caliber ammunition. More preferably, the projectile is a projectile of medium-caliber ammunition. Preferably, the projectile has a diameter of up to and including 6.5 mm. More preferably, the projectile has a diameter between 6.5 mm and 9 mm. More preferably, the projectile has a diameter between 9 mm and 20 mm.Preferably, the projectile is a projectile for caliber 7.62 mm.

[0026] According to the invention, the illuminating composition is a pyrotechnic composition which, when the projectile is fired, produces a luminous trace in the projectile's flight path.

[0027] In the context of the invention, the expression "luminescent composition of a first color", "metal salt of a first color" or similar means that the luminescent composition or the metal salt produces a luminous trace after firing the tracer projectile, which has said first color.

[0028] Without wishing to be bound by theory, the term "trajectory" in the context of the invention describes a trajectory left by the tracer projectile after firing, from which electromagnetic radiation emanates, allowing optical tracking of the trajectory of the tracer projectile, wherein the electromagnetic radiation preferably comprises a wavelength in a wavelength range from the near-infrared range (from 1400 nm) to and including visible light (up to 380 nm).

[0029] The electromagnetic radiation emanating from the luminous trace is preferably "light".

[0030] The term "color" in the context of a luminous trace describes either the intensity or the wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the luminous trace. The luminous trace itself, from which the electromagnetic radiation originates, exhibits this color.

[0031] Preferably, the "color" of the luminous trace is the intensity of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the luminous trace. Preferably, the "color" is the wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the luminous trace.

[0032] The electromagnetic radiation emitted by the luminous trace preferably comprises a wavelength in the range of visible light up to and including near-infrared light (therefore 380 nm - 1400 nm wavelength), preferably a wavelength of light in the visible range (therefore 380 nm - 750 nm). Preferably, the electromagnetic radiation comprises a wavelength in the near-infrared range (therefore 750 nm - 1400 nm).

[0033] Near-infrared electromagnetic radiation is invisible to the naked eye. This has the advantage that detecting the tracer requires specialized equipment. This gives users of tracer projectiles with the appropriate equipment an informational advantage over observers without such equipment.

[0034] A "color change" within the meaning of the invention is a transitional state in which a luminous tracer changes from a first color to a second (or further) color. A luminous tracer projectile manufactured using the method according to the invention therefore produces a luminous trace that can be characterized by a color change with the following states: "Old color" → "Color change" → "New color".

[0035] In the "Old Color" state, the luminous trace displays only the old color. In the "Color Change" state, the luminous trace is in a transitional state, displaying both the old color and a new color, and / or a mixture of the old and new colors. In the "New Color" state, the luminous trace displays only the new color.

[0036] The state "color change" has a changeover time that lasts from the beginning of the color change until the end of the color change.

[0037] A color change according to the invention can therefore be a change in the intensity and / or wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation emanating from the luminous trace.

[0038] A color change according to the invention can thus be a transitional state in which the old intensity and / or the old wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation emanating from the luminous trace changes to a new intensity and / or new wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation emanating from the luminous trace.

[0039] In preferred embodiments, the method for producing a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change further comprises a step (ia) and / or (ii-a): (ia) or (ii-a): introducing at least one further luminous element and subsequently compacting the at least one further luminous element contained in the projectile.

[0040] As indicated by the numbering of these steps, the optional step (ia) is performed after step (i). As indicated by the numbering of these steps, the optional step (ii-a) is performed after step (ii). Steps (ia) and (ii-a) each allow the resulting tracer projectile to have a further color change. Steps (ia) and (ii-a) can each independently represent multiple steps (ia) and (ii-a), with each of the multiple steps introducing an additional light set. The additional light set introduced in the optional steps (ia) and (ii-a) need not be identical. Therefore, the additional light set introduced in step (ia) need not be identical to the additional light set introduced in step (ii-a).Therefore, a first further light set introduced in a first of the optional steps (ia) need not be identical to a second further light set introduced in a second of the further optional steps (ia).

[0041] Preferably, the additional luminescent element has another color that differs from the first and second colors. This allows for color changes in which a luminescent trace changes from a first color to a second color and then to a third color. Preferably, the additional luminescent element has the first color (or the second color). This allows for color changes in which a luminescent trace changes from a first color to a second color and then back to the first color. In the case of several additional luminescent elements, this enables, for example, luminescent traces in which a luminescent trace changes from a first color to a second color, then to another color, and then back to the second color.

[0042] In preferred embodiments, the luminescent elements introduced into the tracer projectile are successively compressed. Successive compression in the context of the invention means that the luminescent elements are compressed one after the other; therefore, first the first luminescent element introduced into the projectile is compressed within the projectile, then the next luminescent element introduced into the projectile, preferably the second luminescent element, is compressed within the projectile, and so on.

[0043] In preferred embodiments of the method for manufacturing a tracer projectile, after each step in which a luminescent composition is introduced into the projectile, a compaction of the introduced luminescent composition located in the projectile is carried out.

[0044] By densifying the phosphor packs within the tracer projectile, inconsistent boundary areas (which can occur, for example, when the tracer projectile is fired or during the combustion of the phosphor packs within the tracer projectile in flight) between the phosphor packs (for example, between the second phosphor pack and another phosphor pack, or between a first additional phosphor pack and a second additional phosphor pack) or between the phosphor packs and the illuminator pack (for example, between the second phosphor pack and the illuminator pack, or between the additional phosphor pack and the illuminator pack) are avoided. In tracer projectiles not in accordance with the invention, such inconsistent boundary areas between two phosphor packs lead to a mixing of the phosphor packs and thus to a mixing of the tracer's color.In contrast, the tracer projectiles according to the invention have an interface between adjacent sets of luminescent elements, which spatially separates the sets from one another. For example, the tracer projectiles according to the invention have an interface between the first and second luminescent elements. The resulting separation of the luminescent elements within the projectile increases the precision of the color change.

[0045] Preferably, the luminaire is a luminaire according to one of the other aspects disclosed herein. Preferably, the first and / or second luminaire is a luminaire according to one of the other aspects disclosed herein. Preferably, the first, second, and / or further luminaires are luminaires according to one of the other aspects disclosed herein.

[0046] In preferred embodiments, the compaction of the first lighting element, the second lighting element, optionally the further lighting element, and / or the ignition element is carried out by pressing the respective element, preferably with a ram force of 500-1000 N. Preferably, the pressing is carried out with a ram force of 700-1000 N, more preferably with a ram force of 850-1000 N. Preferably, the pressing is carried out with a ram force of 500-800 N, more preferably with a ram force of 500-650 N.

[0047] In preferred embodiments, a type press is used for pressing. Preferably, the type press includes a punch that has a recess. A type of set compressed with such a punch has a negative imprint of the recess (hence an indentation). This imprint can increase the surface area of ​​the set, for example, at the interface between two sets (such as between two sets of pyrotechnic articles). This increase in surface area makes it easier to ignite a set and / or facilitates the burning transition between two sets.

[0048] Preferably, the indentation is arranged centrally on a pressing surface of the punch. Preferably, the indentation is hemispherical. Preferably, the hemispherical indentation has a radius of 1.2–1.4 mm, more preferably a radius of approximately 1.3 mm.

[0049] The compaction process according to the invention makes the phosphor compositions in the tracer projectile less loose. The substances comprising the compositions come into closer contact. This reduces the surface area exposed to penetrating oxygen or moisture. Consequently, the rate at which moisture or oxygen can penetrate and permeate the compositions is also reduced. Overall, this increases the storage lifespan of the tracer projectiles according to the invention. Compaction also reduces the mixing of the compositions within the projectile, which can occur, for example, during rough handling, when the phosphor compositions in the projectile are burned, and when the tracer projectile is fired.Both of these factors result in the tracer projectiles according to the invention leaving a trace with at least one color change when fired, in which the individual colors change with greater precision than in projectiles from the prior art. "Precision" in this context means that the duration of the color change is minimized.

[0050] In particularly preferred embodiments, one of the light sets, preferably the second light set, is a transfer set. The tracer projectiles according to the invention and tracer projectiles produced using the inventive method have at least two densely packed light sets. In the context of the invention, one light set can be a transfer set. A transfer set is one of the at least two light sets that is easier to initiate than another of the at least two light sets.

[0051] Preferably, the transfer element has a higher burning rate than any other of the at least two luminous elements. Preferably, the transfer element has a higher mass fraction of light metal than any other of the at least two luminous elements. Preferably, the transfer element has a higher mass fraction of magnesium than any other of the at least two luminous elements. Preferably, when the tracer projectile is fired, the transfer element begins to burn after the ignition element, but is not the last luminous element of the projectile to begin burning.

[0052] Preferably, the transfer set is a light set that is easier to initiate than a light set positioned in the tracer projectile in the direction of flight of the transfer set. Preferably, the transfer set is a light set that has a higher burn rate than a light set positioned in the tracer projectile in the direction of flight of the transfer set. Preferably, the transfer set is a light set located within a tracer projectile according to the invention in the direction of flight of the tracer projectile from the ignition set and positioned at the rear of the light set that is furthest in the direction of flight of the tracer projectile. Preferably, the transfer set has a higher burn rate than the light set that is positioned in the tracer projectile in the direction of flight of the tracer projectile from the transfer set.Preferably, the transmission element has a higher mass fraction of light metal than the luminescent element, which is positioned within the tracer projectile in the direction of flight of the tracer projectile. Preferably, the transmission element has a higher mass fraction of magnesium than the luminescent element, which is positioned within the tracer projectile in the direction of flight of the tracer projectile.

[0053] In preferred embodiments of the method for manufacturing a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, the timing of the at least one color change is controlled by the mass ratio of the luminescent elements. In preferred embodiments of the method for manufacturing a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, the distance traveled by the tracer projectile until the at least one color change occurs, and / or the flight time traveled by the tracer projectile until the color change occurs, is controlled by the mass ratio of the luminescent elements. Preferably, the mass ratio of the luminescent elements is the mass ratio of the first and second luminescent elements.

[0054] In preferred embodiments of the method for manufacturing a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, the timing of the at least one color change is controlled by the mass of the second luminaire, preferably the transfer unit. In preferred embodiments of the method for manufacturing a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, the distance traveled by the tracer projectile until the at least one color change occurs, and / or the flight time traveled by the tracer projectile until the color change occurs, is controlled by the mass of the second luminaire, preferably the transfer unit.

[0055] In a second aspectThe invention relates to a tracer projectile for producing a tracer with at least one color change, which was manufactured using a method according to one of the aspects disclosed herein.

[0056] A tracer projectile manufactured according to the inventive method comprises at least two densely packed light sets and one densely packed transfer set. As described above, the densification of the light sets improves, among other things, the durability of the projectiles and minimizes the time required for the color change.

[0057] A tracer projectile according to the invention comprises a first and a second (therefore at least two) illumination sets and an ignition set, which are present within the projectile. The at least two illumination sets present within a tracer projectile according to the invention can have different burning rates and be of different difficulty to initiate.

[0058] In preferred embodiments of the tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, the timing of the at least one color change is controlled by the mass ratio of the phosphor units. In preferred embodiments, the distance traveled by the tracer projectile until the at least one color change occurs, and / or the flight time traveled by the tracer projectile until the color change occurs, is controlled by the mass ratio of the phosphor units. Increasing the density of the phosphor units further enhances the controllability of the burning rate of the phosphor units. This increases the burning time of a denser phosphor unit in the tracer projectile according to the invention with the mass of the phosphor unit.The burn time of a dense phosphor charge in the tracer projectile according to the invention, compared to the total burn time of the phosphor charges in the tracer projectile according to the invention, increases with the mass fraction of said dense phosphor charge in the tracer projectile. The phosphor charges within a tracer projectile according to the invention burn according to the order of their arrangement in the projectile, with a phosphor charge located closer to the rear of the projectile starting to burn earlier than a phosphor charge located further away from the rear of the projectile. As explained above, the use of dense phosphor charges minimizes the duration of the color change.In a tracer projectile in which the luminescent elements are arranged in the sequence "(1) ignition element - (2) luminescent element 2 - (3) luminescent element 1" from projectile tail to projectile nose, this means that luminescent element 1 only begins to ignite when luminescent element 2 is almost completely burned out. This allows the onset of the color change to be delayed by increasing the mass fraction of a denser luminescent element in the tracer projectile. Preferably, the tracer projectile comprises 150-350 mg of the first luminescent element and 50-150 mg of the second luminescent element. Preferably, the tracer projectile comprises 200-350 mg of the first luminescent element and 80-200 mg of the second luminescent element. Preferably, the tracer projectile comprises 240-260 mg of the first luminescent element and 170-190 mg of the second luminescent element. Preferably, the tracer projectile comprises approximately 250 mg of the first luminous composition and 180 mg of the second luminous composition.Preferably, the tracer projectile comprises 290-310 mg of the first luminous compound and 90-110 mg of the second luminous compound. Preferably, the tracer projectile comprises approximately 300 mg of the first luminous compound and 100 mg of the second luminous compound. Preferably, the tracer projectile comprises approximately 200 mg of the first luminous compound and 100-200 mg of the second luminous compound.

[0059] In preferred embodiments, the projectile comprises two illumination sets. Preferably, the projectile comprises two illumination sets, one of which, being closer to the rear of the projectile, is a transmission set.

[0060] In preferred embodiments of the tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, the timing of the at least one color change is controlled by the mass of the second light source, preferably the transfer unit. In preferred embodiments, the distance traveled by the tracer projectile until the color change occurs and / or the flight time of the tracer projectile until the color change occurs is controlled by the mass of the second light source, preferably the transfer unit. The higher the mass of the second light source, the longer the time elapses until the second light source has burned out and the first light source, which is located closer to the projectile nose than the second light source, begins to ignite.

[0061] In preferred embodiments of the tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, the timing of the occurrence of the at least one color change is controlled by the mass ratio of the light sources. In preferred embodiments of the tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, the timing of the occurrence of the at least one color change is controlled by the mass ratio of the first and second light sources.

[0062] In preferred embodiments of the tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, the distance at which the at least one color change occurs is controlled by the mass ratio of the luminous elements. In preferred embodiments of the tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, the distance at which the at least one color change occurs is determined by the mass ratio of the first and second luminous elements.

[0063] Preferably, the first and second light sets have a mass ratio of 2.8 : 1.0 to 3.3 : 1.0, preferably approximately 3.0 : 1.0. Preferably, the first and second light sets have a mass ratio of 1.2 : 1.0 to 1.6 : 1.0, preferably approximately 1.4 : 1.0. Preferably, the first and second light sets have a mass ratio of 3.5 : 1.0 to 0.8 : 1.0, preferably 3.0 : 1.0 to 1.0 : 1.0. Preferably, the first and second light sets have a mass ratio of 1.1 : 1.0 to 0.9 : 1.0, preferably 1.0 : 1.0.

[0064] In a third aspect The invention relates to a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, comprising at least two dense luminous elements arranged one behind the other within the projectile in the direction of flight.

[0065] A tracer projectile according to the invention produces a tracer with at least one color change. Therefore, the tracer produced by such a tracer projectile has a total of at least two colors.

[0066] The tracer projectiles according to the invention have at least two compacted light sets. Preferably, the light sets were compacted by pressing them with a ram force of 500-1000 N during the manufacture of the tracer projectile.

[0067] Between two adjacent, densely packed luminescent elements of the tracer projectile, which generate a luminous trace with at least one color change, there is an interface that separates the respective luminescent elements. This interface is not a separate insert that is placed inside the projectile. In the context of the invention, this interface is understood to be the transition between two adjacent elements within the projectile. The adjacent elements are separated by this interface, which is formed by the surface of the two adjacent elements. Preferably, the interface has a recess. Such a recess increases the surface area of ​​the elements within the interface. Preferably, the recess is located centrally on the surface of one element. Preferably, the recess is hemispherical. Preferably, the hemispherical recess has a radius of 1.2–1.4 mm, preferably with a radius of approximately 1.3 mm. This increased surface area makes it easier to ignite a set and / or facilitates the transition between two sets.

[0068] As described above, tracer projectiles with these at least two densely packed light sets exhibit increased durability and improved separation of the light sets within the projectile compared to projectiles from the prior art, which minimizes the duration of the color change.

[0069] Preferably, in this arrangement at least one of the at least two compact light sets is a transmission set.

[0070] In particularly preferred embodiments, the at least two compacted light sets are arranged within the projectile in the direction of flight of the projectile in the following sequence: compacted transmission set (further towards the rear in the tracer projectile) compacted light set (further towards the front in the tracer projectile).

[0071] In preferred embodiments, the sets are arranged within the projectile in the direction of flight of the projectile in the following order: ignition set, compressed transmission set, compressed illumination set.

[0072] In these arrangements, the compressed transmission element is closer to the ignition element than the compressed luminescent element. Both of these arrangements result in the compressed transmission element beginning to burn before the compressed luminescent element. The tracer projectiles according to the invention in these arrangements exhibit a color change that shows increased precision compared to the color change of tracer projectiles from the prior art.

[0073] In preferred embodiments, the tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change further comprises a dense illuminating element.

[0074] As described above, the compaction process according to the invention makes the propellant charge less loose in the tracer projectile, thereby increasing, among other things, the durability of the tracer projectile. Furthermore, because the tracer projectile according to the invention contains a compacted propellant charge, its durability is increased even further, and an increased quantity of propellant charge can be packed into the projectile.

[0075] In preferred embodiments, the tracer projectile has a tracer with at least one color change to generate a tracer with at least one color change.

[0076] In preferred embodiments, the luminous tracer has a single, two, three, or n Color changes.

[0077] The color change is a color change as already described in connection with the manufacturing process. In this context, "n "for any number of color changes."

[0078] In preferred embodiments, the color change begins after a predetermined flight time and / or a predetermined distance traveled by the projectile. Predetermined in this context means that the flight time and / or distance at which the color change occurs is known before the projectile is fired. Preferably, as described above, the onset of the color change is determined, either in terms of time or distance, by the mass ratio of the luminescent elements.

[0079] In preferred embodiments, the predetermined distance traveled by the projectile is 150-250 m, 250-300 m, 350-450 m, 350-400 m, 550-650 m, 750-850 m, and / or 950-1000 m. Preferably, the predetermined distance traveled is 550-650 m. Preferably, the predetermined distance traveled is 250-300 m. Preferably, the predetermined distance traveled is 350-400 m. Preferably, the predetermined distance traveled is 750-850 m. This predetermined distance represents the distance traveled by the tracer projectile after which the color change of the tracer begins. The term "and" in this context indicates that the tracer exhibits multiple color changes, for example, if the color change begins after 150-250 m and after 550-650 m.

[0080] In preferred embodiments, the predetermined flight time of the projectile is 150-250 ms, 500-600 ms, 800-900 ms, and / or 1200-1300 ms. Preferably, the predetermined flight time is 500-600 ms. This predetermined flight time represents the duration of the tracer projectile after which the color change of the tracer begins. The term "and" in this context indicates that the tracer exhibits multiple color changes, for example, if the color change begins after 150-250 ms and after 500-600 ms.

[0081] In particularly preferred embodiments, the color change occurs within a flight time of 150 ms and / or within a distance of 150 m. In particularly preferred embodiments, the color change occurs within a flight time of 100 ms and / or within a distance of 100 m. In particularly preferred embodiments, the color change occurs within a flight time of 50 ms and / or within a distance of 50 m. As described above, the color change is a transitional state from an old color of the luminous tracer to a new color. In this transitional state, the luminous tracer exhibits both the old color and the new color, and / or a mixture of the old and new colors.

[0082] The tracer projectile according to the invention allows for color changes with increased precision compared to tracer projectiles known in the prior art. This is advantageous, for example, when the tracer projectile travels only a short distance within which a clean color transition is required. Furthermore, the increased precision of the color change is advantageous in methods where the distance to an object is to be determined based on the color change. This increased precision is also advantageous when the projectile has multiple color changes, as the total number of color changes during the projectile's flight time can be increased. Therefore, the possible temporal and spatial density of color changes (i.e., color change / time or color change / distance) is increased.

[0083] In preferred embodiments, the color is selected from the group consisting of infrared, red, green, white, yellow, and blue. Most preferably, the color is selected from the group consisting of red, green, white, yellow, and blue.

[0084] In this context, the term "infrared" describes electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength of 750–1400 nm, preferably with a wavelength of 750–1000 nm, most preferably with a wavelength of 750–850 nm. In this context, the term "red" describes electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength of 590–750 nm, preferably with a wavelength of 590–650 nm or 650–750 nm. In this context, the term "yellow" describes electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength of 565–590 nm. In this context, the term "green" describes electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength of 490–565 nm. In this context, the term "blue" describes electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength of 380–490 nm, preferably 420–490 nm or 380–420 nm.In this context, the term "white" describes electromagnetic radiation whose individual spectral components, taken together, create a white color impression.

[0085] In particularly preferred embodiments, the electromagnetic radiation comprises wavelengths of 665-685 nm and 596-616 nm. In particularly preferred embodiments, the electromagnetic radiation comprises wavelengths of 612-632 nm and 543-563 nm. In particularly preferred embodiments, the electromagnetic radiation comprises a wavelength of 504-534 nm.

[0086] In preferred embodiments of the tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, the illuminating element is an illuminating element according to another aspect of the present invention.

[0087] In a fourth aspect, the invention relates to a tracer cartridge for generating a tracer, comprising a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change according to one of the other aspects of the invention.

[0088] In the context of the invention, the term "cartridge" refers to the assembled components necessary for firing a projectile. A tracer cartridge according to the invention comprises the tracer projectile and further components, including a casing, an ignition system, and a propellant charge.

[0089] In a fifth aspect, the invention relates to a light assembly for use in a tracer projectile according to another aspect of this invention, comprising (a) Oxidizing agent comprising a color-imparting metal salt; (b) Reducing agent comprising a light metal, wherein the light metal constitutes a mass fraction of at least 20% of the luminescent composition; wherein the total mass of color-giving metal salt in the luminous composition represents a mass fraction of at least 50% of the luminous composition.

[0090] The "oxidizing agent" in the context of the invention describes a substance that acts as an electron acceptor in the luminescent composition. In particular, the oxidizing agent is an oxygen donor.

[0091] The "reducing agent" in the context of the invention describes a substance that acts as an electron donor in the luminescent composition. Reducing agents are often referred to as "fuels".

[0092] The oxidizing agent of the luminescent composition according to the invention comprises a color-imparting metal salt. Preferably, a color-imparting metal salt is also present in the reducing agent of the luminescent composition.

[0093] In preferred embodiments, the luminescent material is compacted.

[0094] In preferred embodiments, the illuminating element is for use in a method for manufacturing a tracer projectile according to another aspect of the invention.

[0095] Preferably, the coloring metal salt constitutes a mass fraction of at least 50%, at least 55%, at least 60%, at least 65%, at least 70%, or at least 80% of the luminescent composition. More preferably, the coloring metal salt constitutes a mass fraction of at least 30–80%, 40–80%, 50–80%, 55–75%, or 60–70% of the luminescent composition. Most preferably, the coloring metal salt constitutes a mass fraction of at least 60–70% of the luminescent composition.

[0096] Preferably, the oxidizing agent consists of at least 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% by mass of the coloring metal salt. Preferably, the oxidizing agent is the coloring metal salt.

[0097] Preferably, the light metal constitutes a mass fraction of at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 22%, at least 24%, or at least 26% of the luminescent composition. More preferably, the light metal constitutes a mass fraction of 15-35%, 20-35%, or 20-30%, and most preferably 25-28% of the luminescent composition. Particularly preferably, the light metal constitutes a mass fraction of 23-27%, and most preferably 25% of the luminescent composition. In other particular embodiments, the light metal constitutes a mass fraction of 26-30%, and most preferably 28% of the luminescent composition. Preferably, the light metal constitutes a mass fraction of 25% of the luminescent composition. In other particular embodiments, the light metal constitutes a mass fraction of 28% of the luminescent composition.

[0098] Preferably, the reducing agent consists of a mass fraction of at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, or 100% of the light metal. In particularly preferred embodiments, the reducing agent is the light metal. In particularly preferred embodiments, the light metal is magnesium.

[0099] Preferably, the magnesium constitutes a mass fraction of at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 22%, at least 24%, or at least 26% of the luminescent composition. More preferably, the magnesium constitutes a mass fraction of 15-35%, 20-35%, or 20-30%, most preferably 25-28% of the luminescent composition. Particularly preferably, the magnesium constitutes a mass fraction of 23-27%, most preferably 25% of the luminescent composition. In other particular embodiments, the magnesium constitutes a mass fraction of 26-30%, most preferably 28% of the luminescent composition. Preferably, the magnesium constitutes a mass fraction of 25-28% of the luminescent composition. Preferably, the magnesium constitutes a mass fraction of 28% of the luminescent composition. Preferably, the magnesium constitutes a mass fraction of 25% of the luminescent composition.

[0100] The light metal according to the invention is preferably present in the luminous composition in elemental form and / or in an alloy. Preferably, the reducing agent is also present in elemental form. A light metal is a metal having a density of 5 g / cm³ or less. Those skilled in the art are aware of which light metals are suitable for producing the luminous composition according to the invention. Preferably, the light metal is elemental magnesium, aluminum, zirconium, titanium, and / or an alloy of the aforementioned substances.

[0101] Preferably, the reducing agent comprises a metallic component, a semimetallic component, an organic component, and / or a covalent inorganic component. Preferably, the reducing agent comprises a metal or semimetal. Preferably, the reducing agent comprises elemental magnesium, aluminum, silicon, boron, zirconium, zinc, manganese, iron, titanium, and / or an alloy of the aforementioned substances. Preferably, the reducing agent comprises an organic and / or covalent inorganic component. The covalent inorganic component can be, for example, sulfur and / or phosphorus. The organic component can be, for example, an organic molecule or salt (preferably a dicyandiamide, dichlorophthalate, oxalate, and / or stearate, most preferably a dichlorophthalate, oxalate, and / or stearate) and / or a carbon-containing substrate such as a polymer, coal, wood flour, resin, graphite fibers, and / or nitrocotton.In preferred embodiments, in which the reducing agent comprises a resin or polymer, the resin or polymer is not loaded with metal cations and is not a metal salt. Additional parameters of the luminous trace, such as burning time, brightness, smoke generation, and / or spark generation, can be adjusted by modifying the composition of the reducing agent.

[0102] In preferred embodiments, the light metal is selected from the group consisting of aluminium, magnesium and titanium, preferably magnesium.

[0103] In the context of the luminescent compositions mentioned here, the term "and / or" means that the listed substances are present either individually (in the sense of "or") or as a mixture (in the sense of "and"). Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the term "Object selected from the group consisting of" both the individual items the items listed in the group items,as well as a mixture of those listed in the group items mean.

[0104] In preferred embodiments, the oxidizing agent is selected from the group consisting of a nitrate, chlorate, carbonate, perchlorate, peroxide, dinitramide, chromate, and permanganate. Preferably, the oxidizing agent comprises a nitrate, chlorate, carbonate, perchlorate, peroxide, dinitramide, chromate, and / or a permanganate. In preferred embodiments, the oxidizing agent is selected from the group consisting of a nitrate, chlorate, perchlorate, peroxide, dinitramide, chromate, and permanganate. Preferably, the oxidizing agent comprises a nitrate, chlorate, perchlorate, peroxide, dinitramide, chromate, and / or a permanganate. Preferably, the oxidizing agent comprises a nitrate and / or a peroxide. Preferably, the oxidizing agent comprises a nitrate. Preferably, the oxidizing agent is a nitrate.

[0105] In preferred embodiments, the coloring metal salt is selected from the group consisting of a lithium salt, sodium salt, potassium salt, rubidium salt, cesium salt, calcium salt, strontium salt, barium salt, boron salt, copper salt, arsenic salt, antimony salt, lead salt, indium salt, europium salt, thallium salt, and radium salt, preferably consisting of a barium salt, strontium salt, copper salt, sodium salt, and potassium salt.

[0106] A color-imparting metal salt in connection with the present invention is a metal salt whose metal cation is a color-imparting metal cation and therefore emits electromagnetic radiation after firing of the projectile, which has a wavelength in the wavelength range from the near-infrared region (from 1400 nm) to visible light (380 nm). In the context of the present invention, a metal salt consisting of a color-imparting metal cation and an anion is only to be considered a "color-imparting metal salt" of a luminescent composition if the total mass fraction of the salts of the respective color-imparting metal cation represents at least 10% of the total mass of the luminescent composition.

[0107] In the context of the present invention, the "metal" of the coloring metal salt (and of the coloring metal cation) is to be understood as encompassing a cation of an element belonging to the category of metals, metalloids, alkaline earth metals, alkali metals, transition metals, and lanthanides. Hydrogen is not a metal within the meaning of the invention.

[0108] The color-imparting metal salt according to the invention is not a polymer, such as a covalent polymer or a coordination polymer. The color-imparting metal salt is not an ion exchange resin. The color-imparting metal cation of the invention is not charged onto a polymer or resin, e.g., an ion exchange resin, and is not a coordination center in a coordination polymer.

[0109] Preferably, this does not preclude the use of a polymer, coordination polymer, and / or resin as a "binder" and / or reducing agent in a luminaire assembly according to the invention. If a polymer, coordination polymer, and / or resin is used in a luminaire assembly according to the invention, then the polymer, coordination polymer, and / or resin is not loaded with metal cations and is not a metal salt.

[0110] In preferred embodiments, the color-imparting metal salt is selected from the group consisting of strontium salt, calcium salt, barium salt, copper salt, lead salt and boron salt.

[0111] In particularly preferred embodiments, the coloring metal salt is a barium salt or a strontium salt. Preferably, the coloring metal salt is a barium salt. Preferably, the coloring metal salt is a strontium salt.

[0112] In particularly preferred embodiments, the coloring metal salt is selected from the group consisting of a chloride, sulfate, chlorate, nitrate, dichlorophthalate, carbonate, stearate, oxalate, and peroxide.

[0113] Preferably, the anion of the coloring metal salt comprises an oxidizing agent and / or a reducing agent. Overall, this efficient selection of components, in which the coloring metal salt is or comprises an oxidizing agent and / or a reducing agent, maximizes the total mass fraction of the coloring metal cations and the oxidizing agent and / or reducing agent in the luminescent composition.

[0114] In preferred embodiments, the barium salt is selected from the group consisting of barium carbonate, barium chlorate, barium nitrate, barium oxalate, barium phthalate, and barium sulfate. In preferred embodiments, the barium salt is selected from the group consisting of barium nitrate and barium carbonate.

[0115] In preferred embodiments, the strontium salt is selected from the group consisting of strontium carbonate, strontium chloride, strontium nitrate, strontium oxalate, strontium phthalate, strontium dichlorophthalate, strontium sulfate, and strontium peroxide. In preferred embodiments, the strontium salt is selected from the group consisting of strontium nitrate, strontium dichlorophthalate, strontium peroxide, and strontium carbonate.

[0116] In preferred embodiments, the magnesium has a mass fraction of 15-35%, 20-35%, preferably 20-30%, and most preferably 25-28% in the luminescent composition. Preferably, the magnesium has a mass fraction of 25-28% in the luminescent composition.

[0117] Preferably, the magnesium has a mass fraction of 24-26% in the luminescent composition, most preferably 25%. Preferably, the magnesium has a mass fraction of 27-29% in the luminescent composition, most preferably 28%. Preferably, the magnesium has a mass fraction of 28% in the luminescent composition.

[0118] In preferred embodiments, the lighting set is a transmission set.

[0119] Preferably, the transmission set has a higher mass fraction of light metal than the mass fraction of light metal in a further luminescent set located in the tracer projectile according to the invention. Preferably, the transmission set has a higher mass fraction of magnesium than the mass fraction of magnesium in a further luminescent set located in the tracer projectile according to the invention. Preferably, the magnesium in the transmission set has a mass fraction of 20-35%, more preferably 25-35%, more preferably 25-30%, and most preferably 27-29%. Preferably, the magnesium in the transmission set has a mass fraction of 27-29%. Preferably, the transmission set has a mass fraction of 26-30% magnesium, more preferably 28% magnesium. Preferably, the transmission set has a mass fraction of 28% magnesium.

[0120] In preferred embodiments, the lighting set includes an auxiliary device.

[0121] In preferred embodiments, the auxiliary agent is selected from the group consisting of halogenated color enhancer, organic dye, binder, stabilizer, carbon-containing substrate, moderating agent, and processing aid.

[0122] In preferred embodiments, the binder is a resin or polymer. In this case, however, the resin or polymer is not loaded with metal cations and is not a metal salt.

[0123] In preferred embodiments, the halogen-containing color enhancer comprises a chlorinating agent, in particular a chlorine-containing polymer. Preferably, the chlorine-containing polymer is selected from the group consisting of chlorinated paraffin, chlorinated rubber, Parlon, Pergut, polyvinylidene chloride, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In particularly preferred embodiments, the chlorine-containing polymer is Pergut and / or PVC.

[0124] Preferably, the chlorinator is an organic chlorinator such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene chloride, chlorinated paraffin, chlorinated rubber, hexachloroethane, and / or hexachlorobenzene. Preferably, the chlorinator is an inorganic chlorinator such as ammonium chloride, mercuric chloride, and / or zinc chloride. A chlorinator can intensify the color produced by the color-imparting metal salt and / or the organic dye.

[0125] The chlorine-containing polymer can act as a binder and as a chlorine donor in the luminescent composition according to the invention. In embodiments in which the halogen-containing color enhancer comprises a chlorine-containing polymer, the chlorine-containing polymer is not loaded with metal cations and is not a metal salt.

[0126] In preferred embodiments, the processing aid comprises calcium oxalate, calcium stearate, and / or calcium fluoride. Preferably, these processing aids lead to improved processability of the luminescent composition, for example by modifying its release and / or sliding properties.

[0127] Preferably, a luminescent composition according to the invention can contain an organic dye. This organic dye preferably has a delocalized pi-electron system. Preferably, the organic dye can also comprise a metal cation that emits electromagnetic radiation according to the definition of color-imparting metal cations. This is the case, for example, with sodium 4-[(2-hydroxy-1-naphthyl)azo]benzenesulfonate. If, in such a case, the total mass fraction of the salts containing the corresponding metal cation represents at least 10% of the total mass of the luminescent composition, then the organic dye is also considered a color-imparting metal salt within the meaning of the invention.

[0128] In preferred embodiments, the organic dye is selected from the group consisting of methylene blue, phthalocyanine (blue), lysine (blue), lysine (green), 1,4-di-p-toluidino-anthraquinone (also known as alizarin cyanine green), sodium 4-[(2-hydroxy-1-naphthyl)azo]benzenesulfonate, 3,6-bis(4-tert-butylphenyl)-1H,2H,4H,5H-pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,4-dione, 1-(methylamino)anthrachione, 1-(4-nitrophenylazo)-2-naphthol, 1,4-diamino-2,3-dihydroanthraquinone, rhodamine B, quinoline yellow A, dibenzo[c,pqr]tetraphen-7,14-dione (also known as Golden Yellow GK, Vat Yellow 4, Tyrian Yellow I-GOK or Dibenzo[ b , def ]chrysen-7,14-dion), N,N -Dimethyl-4-[( E)-phenyldiazenyl]-aniline (also known as Methyl Yellow), 4,4'-Bis(dimethylamino)benzophenoneimide hydrochloride (also known as Auramine O) and Malachite Green. Preferably, the organic dye is selected from the group consisting of methylene blue, phthalocyanine (preferably a blue phthalocyanine such as copper phthalocyanine), 1,4-di-p-toluidinoanthraquinone (also known as alizarin cyanine green), sodium 4-[(2-hydroxy-1-naphthyl)azo]benzenesulfonate, 3,6-bis(4-tert-butylphenyl)-1H,2H,4H,5H-pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,4-dione, 1-(methylamino)anthrachione, 1-(4-nitrophenylazo)-2-naphthol, 1,4-diamino-2,3-dihydroanthraquinone, rhodamine B, quinoline yellow A, dibenzo[ c , pqr ]tetraphen-7,14-dione (also known as Golden Yellow GK, Vat Yellow 4, Tyrian Yellow I-GOK or Dibenzo[ b , def ]chrysen-7,14-dion), N,N -Dimethyl-4-[( E)-phenyldiazenyl]aniline (also known as methyl yellow), 4,4'-bis(dimethylamino)benzophenoneimide hydrochloride (also known as auramine O), and malachite green. In preferred embodiments, the organic dye is malachite green.

[0129] The presence of the organic dye has the advantage that the color perceived by an observer of the tracer can be adjusted or intensified by the organic dye. For example, after the projectile is fired, the organic dye can color the smoke emitted by the projectile.

[0130] The use of a carbon-containing substrate and / or a moderator can increase the burning time of the phosphor composition. Preferably, the moderator comprises a dicyandiamide and / or an oxalate. Preferably, the carbon-containing substrate comprises a polymer, resin, cotton, graphite fibers, and / or nitrocotton. In embodiments in which the carbon-containing substrate comprises a polymer and / or a resin, the polymer and / or resin is not loaded with metal cations and is not a metal salt.

[0131] A stabilizer can be added to the luminous composition according to the invention to further increase its durability. For example, the stabilizer can be an acid scavenger, a stabilizer against moisture, corrosion protection, and / or a stabilizer against spontaneous ignition of the luminous composition. Preferably, the stabilizer comprises a stearate.

[0132] A luminaire composition according to the invention does not contain any polymer, coordination polymer or resin which is a metal salt or is loaded with a metal cation.

[0133] Preferably, the illuminating element is a illuminating element for use in a method, a tracer cartridge and / or a tracer projectile according to any aspect of the

[0134] Invention. Preferably, the light set is the first light set of a first color and / or the second light set of a second color. Preferably, the light set is a further light set.

[0135] In a sixth aspect The invention relates to a luminaire for producing a green luminous trace, comprising (i) Barium salt, preferably barium nitrate, barium peroxide and / or barium carbonate; (ii) Magnesium; (iii) Pergut and / or PVC; and (iv) Auxiliary material, preferably calcium stearate and / or malachite green.

[0136] Preferably the luminaire for producing a green luminous trace consists of (i) Barium salt, preferably barium nitrate, barium peroxide and / or barium carbonate; (ii) Magnesium; (iii) Pergut and / or PVC; and (iv) Stearate and / or Malachite Green, wherein the stearate is preferably calcium stearate.

[0137] In particular, the luminous element for producing a green luminous trace preferably consists of (i) 60-70% barium nitrate and 1-3% barium carbonate; (ii) 23-27% magnesium; (iii) 3-7% Pergut and / or 3-7% PVC, wherein the sum of the mass fractions of Pergut and PVC constitutes 3-12% by mass of the luminous composition; and (iv) 0.5-1.5% calcium stearate; and (v) optionally 5% malachite green.

[0138] These percentages refer to the mass fraction of the respective components in relation to the mass of the lighting assembly.

[0139] In preferred embodiments, the luminescent composition for generating a green luminous trace comprises magnesium with a mass fraction of 15-35%, preferably 20-30%, preferably 23-27%, most preferably 25% in the luminescent composition. Preferably, the magnesium has a mass fraction of 25% in the luminescent composition.

[0140] In preferred embodiments of the luminous composition for generating a green luminous trace, the barium salt is barium nitrate and / or barium carbonate.

[0141] In preferred embodiments of the luminous composition for producing a green luminous trace, the barium salt is barium nitrate and barium carbonate.

[0142] Preferably, the luminescent composition for producing a green luminous trace has a barium nitrate mass fraction of 55-75%, most preferably 60-70%. Preferably, the barium nitrate mass fraction in the luminescent composition is 60%.

[0143] Preferably, the luminescent composition for producing a green luminous trace contains a mass fraction of barium carbonate of 1-3%, most preferably 2%. Preferably, the barium nitrate contains a mass fraction of 2% in the luminescent composition.

[0144] Preferably, the luminous composition for generating a green luminous trace contains barium ions in a concentration of 2.0-3.0 mmol / g, preferably 2.0-2.5 mmol / g.

[0145] Preferably, the barium salt constitutes a mass fraction of 30-80%, 40-80%, 50-80%, 55-75%, or 60-70% of the luminescent composition for generating a green luminous trace. Preferably, the barium salt constitutes a mass fraction of 60-70% of the luminescent composition for generating a green luminous trace.

[0146] Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a green luminous trace has a mass fraction of calcium stearate of 0.5–1.5%, preferably 1%. Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a green luminous trace has a mass fraction of calcium stearate of 1%.

[0147] In preferred embodiments of the luminescent composition for generating a green luminous trace, the sum of the mass fractions of Pergut and PVC in the luminescent composition is 3-15%, preferably 3-12%, preferably 3-10%, preferably 5-7% of the luminescent composition. Preferably, the sum of the mass fractions of Pergut and PVC in the luminescent composition is 5-7% of the luminescent composition.

[0148] Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a green luminous trace has a mass fraction of Pergut of 3-10%, preferably 5-9%, most preferably 7%. Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a green luminous trace has a mass fraction of Pergut of 7%.

[0149] Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a green luminous trace has a mass fraction of PVC of 3-10%, preferably 3-7%, most preferably 5%. Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a green luminous trace has a mass fraction of PVC of 5%.

[0150] Preferably, the luminescent composition for producing a green luminous trace has a mass fraction of malachite green of 3-10%, preferably 3-7%, most preferably 5%. Preferably, the luminescent composition for producing a green luminous trace has a mass fraction of malachite green of 5%.

[0151] In preferred embodiments, the luminous composition is condensed to produce a green luminous trace.

[0152] Preferably, the luminous element for generating a green luminous trace is a transmission element.

[0153] Preferably, the luminescent element for generating a green tracer is a luminescent element for use in a method, a tracer cartridge and / or a tracer projectile according to any aspect of the invention.

[0154] Preferably, the luminous element for producing a green luminous trace is one of the luminous elements listed in Table 1.

[0155] In preferred embodiments, the luminescent assembly for generating a green luminous trace is used in a method for manufacturing a tracer projectile according to another aspect of the invention. In preferred embodiments, the luminescent assembly for generating a green luminous trace is used as the first luminescent assembly of a first color in the method for manufacturing a tracer projectile according to the first aspect of the invention. Preferably, the luminescent assembly for generating a green luminous trace is the first luminescent assembly of a first color in the method for manufacturing a tracer projectile according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0156] In a seventh aspect The invention relates to a luminaire for producing a red luminous trace, comprising (i) Strontium salt, preferably strontium dichlorophthalate, strontium carbonate, strontium nitrate, strontium oxalate and / or strontium peroxide; (ii) Magnesium; (iii) Pergut and / or PVC; and (iv) additives, preferably calcium stearate, calcium oxalate and / or calcium fluoride.

[0157] Preferably the luminous element for generating a red luminous trace consists of (i) a strontium salt, preferably strontium dichlorophthalate, strontium carbonate, strontium nitrate, strontium oxalate and / or strontium peroxide; (ii) magnesium; (iii) Pergut and / or PVC, preferably PVC; and (iv) a calcium salt, wherein the calcium salt is preferably calcium stearate, calcium oxalate and / or calcium fluoride.

[0158] In particular, the luminous element for generating a red luminous trace preferably consists of (i) 21-25% strontium dichlorophthalate, 3-7% strontium carbonate, 27-33% strontium nitrate, and 2-6% strontium oxalate; (ii) 25-30% magnesium; (iii) 5-7% Pergut or 5-7% PVC, preferably 5-7% PVC; and (iv) 2-4% calcium stearate, and / or 2-4% calcium fluoride.

[0159] These percentages refer to the mass fraction of the respective components in relation to the mass of the lighting assembly.

[0160] In preferred embodiments of the luminous composition for producing a red luminous trace, the strontium salt is a strontium nitrate, strontium dichlorophthalate, strontium carbonate and / or strontium oxalate.

[0161] Preferably, the strontium salt is strontium nitrate, strontium dichlorophthalate, strontium carbonate, and strontium oxalate. In preferred embodiments of the luminous composition for producing a red luminous trace, the strontium salt is strontium nitrate, strontium dichlorophthalate, strontium carbonate, and strontium oxalate.

[0162] Preferably, the calcium salt is calcium stearate and / or calcium fluoride. Preferably, the calcium salt is calcium stearate and calcium fluoride.

[0163] Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace has a mass fraction of strontium salt of 30-80%, 30-70%, 40-68%, 50-65%, 55-65%, particularly preferably 60-65%, most preferably 62%. More preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace has a mass fraction of strontium salt of 62%.

[0164] Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace contains strontium ions at a concentration of 2-3.5 mmol / g, more preferably 2.5-5 mmol / g. Preferably, the luminescent composition contains a mass fraction of calcium salt of 3-9%, more preferably 5-8%, most preferably 6%. Preferably, the luminescent composition contains a mass fraction of calcium salt of 6%.

[0165] Preferably, the perforation and / or PVC in the luminous composition for producing a red luminous trace is a PVC.

[0166] Preferably, the sum of the mass fractions of Pergut and PVC (preferably the mass fraction of PVC) in the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace is 2-10%, 2-8%, preferably 2-6%, most preferably 4% of the luminescent composition. Preferably, the sum of the mass fractions of Pergut and PVC in the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace is 4%.

[0167] Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace comprises a mass fraction of strontium nitrate of 25-35%, preferably 27-33%, 29-31%, most preferably 30%. Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace comprises a mass fraction of strontium nitrate of 30%.

[0168] Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace has a mass fraction of strontium dichlorophthalate of 19-27%, preferably 21-25%, most preferably 23%. Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace has a mass fraction of strontium dichlorophthalate of 23%.

[0169] Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace has a mass fraction of strontium carbonate of 3-7%, most preferably 5%. More preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace has a mass fraction of strontium carbonate of 5%.

[0170] Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace has a mass fraction of strontium oxalate of 2-10%, 2-8%, preferably 2-6%, most preferably 4% of the luminescent composition. Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace has a mass fraction of strontium oxalate of 4% of the luminescent composition.

[0171] Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace comprises a mass fraction of calcium fluoride of 1-5%, preferably 2-4%, most preferably 3%. Preferably, the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace comprises a mass fraction of 3% of the luminescent composition.

[0172] Preferably, the luminescent composition contains 1-5% calcium stearate by mass, more preferably 2-4%, and most preferably 3%. Preferably, the luminescent composition contains 3% calcium stearate by mass.

[0173] In particularly preferred embodiments of the luminous composition for generating a red luminous trace, the luminous composition does not contain a barium salt.

[0174] In preferred embodiments of the luminous composition for generating a red luminous trace, magnesium has a mass fraction of 15-35%, preferably 25-30%, most preferably 28%, in the luminous composition. Preferably, the luminous composition for generating a red luminous trace has a mass fraction of 28% magnesium in the luminous composition.

[0175] In preferred embodiments of the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace, the Pergut and / or the PVC together constitute a mass fraction of 3-10%, preferably 5-7%, in the luminescent composition. Preferably, in the luminescent composition for generating a red luminous trace, the Pergut and / or the PVC together constitute a mass fraction of 5-7% of the luminescent composition.

[0176] In preferred embodiments, the luminous composition is condensed to produce a red luminous trace.

[0177] In preferred embodiments, the luminescent assembly for generating a red luminous trace is used in a method for manufacturing a tracer projectile according to another aspect of the invention. In preferred embodiments, the luminescent assembly for generating a red luminous trace is used as a second luminescent assembly of a second color in the method for manufacturing a tracer projectile according to the first aspect of the invention. Preferably, the luminescent assembly for generating a red luminous trace is the second luminescent assembly of a second color in the method for manufacturing a tracer projectile according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0178] Preferably, the luminous element for generating a red luminous trace is a luminous element listed in Table 2. Preferably, the luminous element for generating a red luminous trace is a luminous element, preferably a transmission element, listed in Table 2.

[0179] Preferably, the luminous element for generating a red luminous tracer is a luminous element for use in a method, a tracer cartridge and / or a tracer projectile according to any aspect of the invention.

[0180] In an eighth aspect The invention relates to the use of a luminescent composition disclosed herein in a method for producing a tracer projectile with at least one color change.

[0181] Preferably, the method for producing a tracer projectile with at least one color change is a method according to another aspect of the present invention.

[0182] In a ninth aspectThe invention relates to a kit for manufacturing a tracer projectile for producing a tracer with at least one color change, or a tracer cartridge for producing a tracer, comprising at least two illumination sets of one of the other aspects described herein, and optionally a compressed illumination set.

[0183] This kit enables a purchaser, for example an operator of a shooting range, to manufacture tracer projectiles and / or tracer cartridges according to the invention.

[0184] By selecting at least two sets of luminescent materials, a purchaser can manufacture tracer projectiles according to the inventive method with the properties described herein, and thereby tailor their color and / or color change to his specific needs.

[0185] Furthermore, the kit according to the invention enables the production of tracer projectiles and / or tracer cartridges shortly before their use. By producing a tracer projectile and / or a tracer cartridge shortly before its use, the clean separation of the tracer compositions according to the invention is further increased, as potential mixing of the tracer compositions within the tracer projectile due to improper handling is minimized. Thus, the kit according to the invention further increases the precision of the color change of the tracer of the tracer projectiles according to the invention.

[0186] In a tenth aspect The invention relates to a method for determining distance, comprising the following successive steps: (i) Firing a tracer projectile wherein the tracer has at least one color change which begins after the predetermined distance traveled; (ii) Determining the color of the tracer at a point x; which allows the distance to be determined based on the color of the light trail at point x.

[0187] The luminous tracer of a tracer projectile, which is used in the inventive method for distance determination, has a luminous trace with a color change that begins after a predetermined distance has been traveled. An observer can determine the distance traveled by the projectile based on the color change.

[0188] Preferably, the point x is located at any point x 1< of the luminous trace. The color of the luminous trace at point x 1< indicates whether the projectile has traveled a greater or lesser distance than the predetermined distance at which the color change from an old color to a new color begins.

[0189] A tracer projectile according to the invention features a color change with increased precision. Preferably, the point x is located at a point x 2< where the tracer is in the "color change" state. Based on the predetermined distance traveled at which the color change from an old color to a new color begins, the observer knows the minimum distance the projectile has traveled before the color change begins. Based on the predetermined distance within which the color change occurs, an observer can thus determine that the point x 2< is located at a distance that must be within the sum of the predetermined distance traveled by the projectile until the color change begins and the distance within which the color change of the projectile occurs.Due to the increased precision of the color change of the tracer projectiles according to the invention, the inventive method for determining distance is more accurate than with projectiles from the prior art.

[0190] Preferably, the point x is located at a point x 3< where the color change of the luminous trace begins. In these embodiments, an observer can thus determine exactly the distance the projectile has traveled at the point x 3<.

[0191] As described above, the tracer projectile according to the invention can exhibit multiple color changes. A higher number of color changes increases the information that can be obtained using the inventive method for distance determination. Thus, multiple distances can be determined within a single trajectory. The color changes of the tracer projectiles according to the invention exhibit increased precision. Therefore, as described above, a higher density of color changes is possible. Due to the increased number of color changes per distance or per time, the number of distances that can be determined using the inventive method also increases.

[0192] As described above, electromagnetic radiation in the near-infrared range is not visible to the naked eye. Preferably, equipment is required to determine the color of the tracer. This has the advantage that only observers with such equipment are able to determine the color of the tracer or even detect it at all.

[0193] Preferably, the equipment necessary for detecting or determining the luminous trace is a UV / Vis spectrometer and / or an infrared spectrometer.

[0194] Preferably, the equipment necessary for detecting or determining the luminous trace is a portable UV / Vis spectrometer and / or a portable infrared spectrometer.

[0195] In preferred embodiments of the distance determination method, the color of the luminous trace at position x is compared with a reference.

[0196] Preferably, the reference assigns a specific distance to each color. Preferably, the reference is an information panel included in the packaging of the tracer cartridge or tracer projectile according to the invention. This reference facilitates the assignment of colors to distances, which is particularly helpful when multiple color changes occur.

[0197] In preferred embodiments of the distance determination method, the tracer projectile is a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change according to one of the other aspects of this invention.

[0198] In an eleventh aspect The invention relates to a method for determining the flight time of a tracer projectile, comprising the following successive steps: (i) Firing the tracer projectile, wherein the tracer projectile has at least one color change that begins after a predetermined flight time; (ii) Determining the color of the tracer at a point x; which determines the flight time of the tracer projectile based on the color of the tracer at point x.

[0199] The luminous tracer of a tracer projectile, which is used in the inventive method for determining the flight duration of a tracer projectile, has a luminous trace with a color change that begins after a predetermined flight duration. An observer can determine the flight duration of the tracer projectile based on the color change.

[0200] Preferably, the point x is located at any point x 1< of the luminous trace. The color of the luminous trace at point x 1< indicates whether the projectile has traveled a longer or shorter flight time than the predetermined flight time at which the color change from an old color to a new color begins.

[0201] A tracer projectile according to the invention features a color change with increased precision. Preferably, the point x is located at a point x 2< where the tracer is in the "color change" state. Based on the predetermined flight time traveled by the projectile at which the color change from an old color to a new color begins, the observer knows the minimum flight time traveled by the projectile until the color change begins. Based on the predetermined flight time within which the color change occurs, an observer can thus determine that the point x 2< is located at a distance that must be within the sum of the projectile's predetermined flight time until the start of the color change and the flight time within which the projectile's color change occurs.Based on the flight time during which the color change occurs, it is possible to determine the flight time the projectile must have traveled at position x 2<. Due to the increased precision of the color change in the tracer projectiles according to the invention, the inventive method for determining the flight time of a tracer projectile is more accurate than with projectiles from the prior art.

[0202] Preferably, the point x is located at a point x 3< where the color change of the luminous trace begins. In these embodiments, an observer can thus determine exactly the flight time of the projectile at the point x 3<.

[0203] As described above, the tracer projectile according to the invention can exhibit multiple color changes. A higher number of color changes increases the information that can be obtained using the inventive method for determining the flight duration of a tracer projectile. Thus, multiple flight durations can be determined within a single trajectory. The color changes of the tracer projectiles according to the invention exhibit increased precision. Therefore, as described above, a higher density of color changes is possible. Due to the increased number of color changes per distance or per time, the number of flight durations that can be determined using the inventive method also increases.

[0204] In preferred embodiments of the distance determination method, the color of the luminous trace at location x is compared with a reference.

[0205] Preferably, the reference assigns a specific flight time of the tracer projectile to each color. Preferably, the reference is an information panel included in the packaging of the tracer cartridge or tracer projectile according to the invention. This reference facilitates the assignment of colors to flight times, which is particularly helpful when there are multiple color changes.

[0206] In preferred embodiments of the method for determining the flight time of a tracer projectile, the tracer projectile is a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change according to one of the other aspects of this invention.

[0207] The terms "of the [present] invention", "according to the invention", "after the invention" and the like, used herein, are intended to refer to all aspects and embodiments of the invention described and / or claimed herein.

[0208] As used herein, the term "comprehensive" is to be interpreted as encompassing both "including" and "consisting of," both meanings being expressly intended, and thus referring to individually disclosed embodiments according to the present invention. The term "and / or" is to be understood as a specific disclosure of each of the two specified features or components, with or without the other. Thus, for example, "A and / or B" is to be understood as a specific disclosure of (i) A, (ii) B, and (iii) A and B, as if each feature were listed here individually. In the context of the present invention, the terms "approximately" and "approximately" denote an accuracy range which a person skilled in the art would understand to be such that the technical effect of the feature in question is still ensured. As should be clear to a person skilled in the art, the specific deviation for a numerical value for a particular technical effect depends on the nature of that technical effect.When an indefinite or definite article is used to refer to a singular noun, e.g. "a", "a" or "the", this includes a plural of that noun unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0209] It is understood that the application of the teachings of the present invention to a specific problem or situation and the incorporation of variations of the present invention or additional features thereto (such as further aspects and embodiments) will be within the capabilities of an ordinary person skilled in the art in light of the teachings contained herein.

[0210] Unless the context indicates otherwise, the descriptions and definitions of the features shown above are not limited to any particular aspect or embodiment of the invention and apply equally to all described aspects and embodiments. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EXECUTION FORMS

[0211] Further properties, advantages, and features of the invention will become clear in the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. It shows Figure 1 : a longitudinal section through a tracer projectile according to the invention with two compressed light sets. Figure 2 : (A) Illuminating and transmission set in a tracer projectile according to the invention, as well as the precise interface between these sets present in tracer projectiles according to the invention. (B) Illuminating and transmission set in a non-inventive tracer projectile

[0212] In Fig. 1 characterizes F the flight direction of the tracer projectile. The in Fig. 1 The illustrated embodiment of the tracer projectile according to the invention has a projectile jacket. 1, with a front section 2and a rear section 3, on, with the rear section 3 It can be cylindrical. The front section 2 and rear section 3 can pass through a groove 4 be separated. Such a groove 4 can be used to attach the tracer projectile to a sleeve, for example when the tracer projectile according to the invention is part of a tracer cartridge.

[0213] The projectile casing 1, preferably the front section 2 of the projectile casing, may also have knurling. 5 exhibit features that increase heat dissipation, reduce projectile resistance in the barrel and / or can serve as an optical distinguishing feature.

[0214] The projectile casing 1 contains a heavy core 6, which is located in the front section of the projectile casing and extends into the rear section of the projectile casing.

[0215] Inside the projectile casing in the rear section 3 the in Fig. 1 The preferred embodiment shown is located at the projectile bug. 7 after projectile tail 8 a first set of lights 9, a second set of lights 10, which is a transmission set 10, can be, and a cheering set 11.

[0216] The individual light sets 10, 11 They can be layered. Preferably, to achieve good combustion, the light sets are, as in Fig. 1 depicted, layered inside one another.

[0217] The tracer projectile can have an ignition device in the projectile casing in the rear cylindrical section adjacent to the ignition set, at the rear of the ignition set. 12 It contains a cavity. Furthermore, a cavity may be included in the ignition set. 13It should be set up to increase the surface area of ​​the ignition set, thus ensuring easier ignition.

[0218] Towards the rear, preferably at the projectile's tail 8, The tracer projectile according to the invention can be fitted with a terminal cap 14 be locked.

[0219] The first lighting set 9 can be a green luminescent composition. Preferably, the green luminescent composition is a green luminescent composition with a composition as disclosed in Table 1. Table 1: Percentage mass fractions of the components of the green luminous compositions according to the invention. Light set Green light set 1 Green light set 2 Green light set 3 Barium nitrate 60 65 60 magnesium 25 25 25 Calcium stearate 1 1 1 Barium carbonate 2 2 2 Pergut 7 7 7 Malachite green 5 0 0 PVC 0 0 5

[0220] The second set of lights 10 can be a red transfer set. Preferably, the red transfer set is a red transfer set with a composition as disclosed in Table 2. Table 2: Percentage mass fractions of the components of a red luminous set according to the invention, which is a transmission set. Red transfer set 1 magnesium 28 Strontium nitrate 30 Strontium dichlorophthalate 23 Strontium carbonate 5 Calcium fluoride 3 Calcium stearate 3 Strontium oxalate 4 PVC 4

[0221] As in Fig. 2A As shown, the tracer projectiles produced according to the invention have a dense first luminous element. 9 and a denser second lighting set 10 Between these two dense sets of light particles lies an interface. 15, by which the light compositions are separated from one another. The mixing of the light compositions is therefore minimized in tracer projectiles according to the invention. Tracer projectiles that were not manufactured using the method according to the invention. (Fig. 2B), In contrast, they do not have such an interface that separates the illuminating elements from one another. In such non-inventive tracer projectiles, there is an area 16 in front, in which there is a loose first lighting set, and an area 18,which contains a loose second set of lights. Between the area 16 and 18 There is an area 17, in which the first and second sets of lights are present in a mixed form.

[0222] A preferred embodiment of the inventive method for producing a tracer projectile with at least one color change at the point in the Fig. 1 The illustrated tracer projectile is explained. In this embodiment, the projectile casing 1, in which the heavy core 2 located, with its projectile tail 8 aligned upwards. Then a first set of lights is installed. 9 with a mass of approximately 200 mg, incorporated into the projectile jacket. The first illuminating element in the tracer projectile. 9 The material is compacted by pressing with a type press at a ram force of 500-1000 N. A transmission set is then used. 10a mass of 100-200 mg is introduced into the tracer projectile. Then an ignition charge is added. 11 inserted into the tracer projectile. Then the sentences contained in the projectile casing are 9, 10, 11 The set is compacted by pressing with a set press at a ram force of 500-1000 N. Preferably, the set press has a press ram with a bulge in one of the compaction steps, the bulge resulting in an increased surface area of ​​the pressed set during pressing. This is achieved, for example, by the Fig. 1 shown cavity 13 That's the case. Then the possible other components, e.g., the ignition device, are considered. 12 and the end cap 14 attached to the projectile. EXAMPLE OF EXECUTION

[0223] The following describes the manufacture of tracer projectiles according to the invention and their properties. The tracer sets shown in Table 3 were used in the manufacture of the tracer projectiles. Table 3: Composition of the sets used in the exemplary embodiment in mass fractions Light set Green light set 1 Red transfer set Barium nitrate 60 Strontium nitrate 30 magnesium 25 magnesium 28 Calcium stearate 1 Strontium dichlorophthalate 23 Barium carbonate 2 Strontium carbonate 5 Pergut 7 Calcium fluoride 3 Malachite green 5 Calcium stearate 3 Strontium oxalate 4 PVC 4

[0224] The jacket of a 7.62 mm projectile, already containing the heavy core, was fixed in a mold press with the nose pointing downwards. The powdered green illuminating compound was then filled into the jacket and compacted using the mold press at a pressure of approximately 500-1000 N. A ram was used for compaction, the surface of which had a centrally located hemispherical indentation with a radius of 1.3 mm. Next, the powdered red transfer compound was filled into the jacket, which was still fixed in the mold press. Another compaction step was performed in the mold press at a pressure of approximately 500-1000 N, during which pressure was applied to both the red transfer compound and the green illuminating compound beneath it. Finally, the powdered primer was filled into the jacket, which was still fixed in the mold press.Another compression step was performed at a pressure of approximately 500-1000 N. During this compression step, a die was used whose surface featured a centrally located hemispherical indentation with a radius of 1.3 mm. The projectile was then removed from the die press, the remaining projectile components were added, and a cartridge was manufactured.

[0225] Using the method described here, projectiles with different mass ratios of the green phosphor and red transfer compound were produced. Experimentally, the distances traveled by these projectiles, as shown in Table 4, were determined depending on the masses used, at which a color change occurred. Table 4: Weights of the luminescent and transfer elements in the projectile and the resulting color change distances Absolute mass of green light set Absolute mass red transmission set Distance at which the color change begins Projectile 1 250 mg 180 mg 350 to 400 m Projectile 2 300 mg 100 mg 250 to 300 m

[0226] The inventors determined that reducing the mass of the red transfer element and increasing the mass of the green luminescent element shortens the distance the projectile travels before the luminous trace begins to change color from red to green. They also determined that the distance a projectile travels before the color change is dependent on the mass of the transfer element. Reducing the mass of the red transfer element shortens the distance the projectile travels before the color change occurs.

[0227] It is pointed out that the aforementioned embodiments and exemplary embodiments are merely examples of the present invention and do not limit it. The scope of protection of the present invention is determined solely by the accompanying claims. REFERENCE MARK

[0228] F Projectile flight direction 1 Projectile casing 2 Front section 3 Rear section 4 Groove 5 Knurling 6 Heavy core 7 Projectile nose 8 Projectile tail 9 First illumination element 10 Second illumination element 11 Illuminator element 12 Igniter 13 Cavity 14 End cap 15 Interface 16 Loose first illumination element 17 Interface between the loose first and the loose second illumination element 18 Loose second illumination element

Claims

1. Method for producing a tracer projectile for producing a tracer with at least one color change, comprising the following steps in the following order: (i) introducing a first illuminating set of a first color into a projectile and then compressing the first illuminating set of the first color contained in the projectile; (ii) introducing a second illuminating set of a second color into the projectile such that the second illuminating set of the second color is positioned within the projectile at the rear of the first illuminating set of the first color; (iii) introducing an illuminating set into the projectile such that the illuminating set is positioned within the projectile at the rear of the second illuminating set of the second color and then compressing the illuminating set contained in the projectile.

2. The method for producing a tracer projectile for producing a tracer with at least one color change according to claim 1, wherein the method further comprises a step (ia) and / or (ii-a): (ia) and / or (ii-a): introducing at least one further illuminating charge and subsequently compacting the at least one further illuminating charge located in the projectile, and / or wherein after each step in which a illuminating charge is introduced into the projectile, compacting of the introduced illuminating charge located in the projectile is carried out, and / or wherein the compacting of the first illuminating charge, the second illuminating charge, optionally the further illuminating charge, and / or the illuminating charge is carried out by pressing the corresponding charge, wherein the pressing is preferably carried out at a punch force of 500-1000 N,and / or wherein a temporal occurrence of the at least one color change is controlled by a mass ratio of the luminous sets and / or wherein the temporal occurrence of the at least one color change is controlled by a mass of the second luminous set., 3. Tracer projectile for producing a tracer with at least one color change, wherein the tracer projectile was produced by the method according to one of claims 1 or 2.

4. Tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change, comprising at least two compacted flare sets, wherein the at least two compacted flare sets are arranged one behind the other within the projectile in the direction of flight, wherein the tracer projectile optionally comprises a compacted ignition set.

5. Tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change according to claim 4, wherein the tracer has a single, two, three, or n color changes and / or wherein a temporal onset of the at least one color change is controlled by the mass ratio of the illuminating sets and / or wherein the temporal onset of the at least one color change is controlled by a mass of the second illuminating set, and / or wherein the color change begins after a predetermined flight duration and / or predetermined distance traveled by the projectile, wherein preferably the predetermined distance traveled by the projectile is 150-250 m, 350-450 m, 550-650 m, 750-850 m, and / or 950-1000 m, wherein preferably the predetermined flight duration of the projectile is 150-250 ms, 500-600 ms, 800-900 ms, and / or 1200-1300 ms, and / or wherein the color change occurs within a flight time of 100 ms and / or within a distance of 100 m.

6. tracer cartridgefor generating a tracer, comprising a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change according to claim 3 or a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change according to one of claims 4 or 5.

7. Illuminating set for use in a tracer projectile, comprising (a) an oxidizing agent comprising a color-imparting metal salt; (b) a reducing agent comprising a light metal, wherein the light metal represents a mass fraction of at least 20% of the luminous composition; wherein the total mass of color-imparting metal salt in the luminous composition represents a mass fraction of at least 50% of the luminous composition, wherein the luminous composition is preferably compacted.

8. A flare for use in a tracer projectile according to claim 7, wherein the oxidizing agent comprises a nitrate, chlorate, carbonate, perchlorate, peroxide, dinitramide, chromate, and / or a permanganate, and / or wherein the color-imparting metal salt is selected from the group consisting of a lithium salt, sodium salt, potassium salt, rubidium salt, cesium salt, calcium salt, strontium salt, barium salt, boron salt, copper salt, arsenic salt, antimony salt, lead salt, indium salt, europium salt, thallium salt, and radium salt, preferably consisting of a barium salt, strontium salt, copper salt, sodium salt, and potassium salt, preferably wherein the color-imparting metal salt is selected from the group consisting of a strontium salt, calcium salt, barium salt, copper salt, lead salt, and boron salt, preferably wherein the color-imparting metal salt is a barium salt or a strontium salt, most preferably a strontium salt,and / or wherein the coloring metal salt is selected from a coloring metal salt from the group consisting of a chloride, sulfate, chlorate, nitrate, dichlorophthalate, carbonate, stearate, oxalate, and peroxide, preferably from the group consisting of nitrate, dichlorophthalate, carbonate, stearate, oxalate, and peroxide, and / or wherein the barium salt is selected from the group consisting of barium carbonate, barium chlorate, barium nitrate, barium oxalate, barium phthalate, and barium sulfate, preferably from the group consisting of barium nitrate and barium carbonate, and / or wherein the strontium salt is selected from the group consisting of strontium carbonate, strontium chloride, strontium nitrate, strontium oxalate, strontium phthalate, strontium dichlorophthalate, strontium sulfate, and strontium peroxide, preferably from the group consisting of strontium nitrate, strontium dichlorophthalate, strontium peroxide, and strontium carbonate, and / or wherein the light metal is selected from the group consisting of aluminium, magnesium,and titanium, preferably magnesium, preferably wherein the magnesium has a mass fraction of 15-35%, preferably 20-35%, preferably 20-30%, most preferably 25-28% in the illuminating composition, and / or wherein the illuminating composition comprises an auxiliary agent, wherein the auxiliary agent is preferably selected from the group consisting of halogen-containing color enhancer, organic dye, binder, stabilizer, carbon-containing substrate, moderating agent, and processing aid, wherein the organic dye is preferably selected from the group consisting of methylene blue, phthalocyanine (blue), lysine (blue), lysine (green), alizarin cyanine green (1,4-di-p-toluidino-anthraquinone), sodium 4-[(2-hydroxy-1-naphthyl)azo]benzenesulfonate, 3,6-bis(4-tert-butylphenyl)-1H,2H,4H,5H-pyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,4-dione, 1-(methylamino)anthrachion, 1-(4-nitrophenylazo)-2-naphthol, 1,4-diamino-2,3-dihydroanthraquinone, rhodamine B, quinoline yellow A, Dibenzo[, c , pqr ]tetraphen-7,14-dione, N,N -Dimethyl-4-[( E )-phenyldiazenyl]-aniline, 4,4'-bis(dimethylamino)benzophenoneimide hydrochloride and malachite green, preferably malachite green.

9. Illuminating set for generating a green trace, comprising (iv) barium salt, preferably barium nitrate, barium peroxide and / or barium carbonate; (v) magnesium; (vi) pergut and / or PVC; and (vii) auxiliaries, preferably calcium stearate and / or malachite green, wherein the illuminating composition is preferably compacted.

10. A luminous composition for producing a green tracer according to claim 9, wherein the barium salt is barium nitrate and barium carbonate, the magnesium has a mass fraction of 15-35%, preferably 20-30%, preferably 23-27%, most preferably 25% in the luminous composition, and / or the sum of the mass fractions of Pergut and PVC in the luminous composition has a mass fraction of 3-12%, preferably 3-10%, preferably 5-7% of the luminous composition, 11. Illuminating set for generating a red trace,comprising (viii) strontium salt, preferably strontium dichlorophthalate, strontium carbonate, strontium nitrate, strontium oxalate and / or strontium peroxide; (ix) magnesium; (x) pergut and / or PVC; and (xi) auxiliaries, preferably calcium stearate, calcium oxalate and / or calcium fluoride, wherein the illuminating composition is preferably compacted.

12. A luminous composition for generating a red tracer according to claim 11, wherein the strontium salt is preferably strontium nitrate, strontium dichlorophthalate, strontium carbonate and strontium oxalate, the magnesium has a mass fraction of 15-35%, preferably 25-30%, most preferably 28%, in the luminous composition, the pergut and / or the PVC together have a mass fraction of 3-10%, preferably 2-6% in the luminous composition, and / or the luminous composition does not contain a barium salt.

13. usea luminous set for producing a tracer according to one of claims 7 or 8, a luminous set for producing a green tracer according to claim 9 or 10, and / or a luminous set for producing a red tracer according to claim 11 or 12 in a method for producing a tracer projectile with at least one color change.

14. kit for producing a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change according to claim 3, a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change according to one of claims 4 or 5, or a tracer cartridge for generating a tracer according to claim 6 comprising at least two illumination sets according to one of claims 7 or 8, according to claim 9 or 10 and / or according to claim 11 or 12, and optionally a compressed ignition set.

15. Method for determining distance,comprising the successive steps of: (xii) firing a tracer projectile, wherein the tracer of the tracer projectile has at least one color change which begins after a predetermined distance has been traveled; (xiii) determining the color of the tracer at a location x; whereby the distance is determined based on the color of the tracer at location x, wherein preferably the tracer projectile is a tracer projectile with at least one color change according to claim 3 or a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change of claims 4 or 5.

16. Method for determining the flight time of a tracer projectile,comprising the successive steps of: (xiv) firing the tracer projectile, wherein the tracer of the tracer projectile has at least one color change which begins after a predetermined flight time; (xv) determining the color of the tracer at a location x, whereby the flight time of the tracer projectile is determined based on the color of the tracer at location x, wherein preferably the tracer projectile is a tracer projectile with at least one color change according to claim 3 or a tracer projectile for generating a tracer with at least one color change of claims 4 or 5.

Images