Container for a munition

Abstract

A container for launch of a munition having a hollow body portion for accommodating the munition, and a cover 300 through which, on launch of the munition, the munition passes. The cover comprises a frame 302 attached to the body and a closure comprising a plurality of sections 306. Each of the plurality of sections 306 comprises a hinged edge attached to the frame at a hinge 310, and at least one non-hinged edge 314. The non-hinged edges 314 cooperatively engage with one another so as to resist external pressure applied from the exterior of the container, and such that, on launch of the munition, the sections open outwards from the container so as to release the munition.

Description

FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a container for the launch of a munition and more specifically a container with a cover arranged to close the container.BACKGROUND

[0002] Munition containers are used to accommodate munitions, such as missiles or rockets, during transit to provide protection. Munitions can also be deployed in munition containers, also referred to as missile canisters or launch tubes, ready for launch and may be stacked together in a multi-container munition system.

[0003] It is known for munition containers to have covers which close the container and offer some level of protection to the munition accommodated within. Some known covers use frangible materials arranged to break and / or tear as the munition impacts the underside of the cover during launch. Other known covers are actuated so as to open like doors, but such covers can use a large amount of space, which may not be available in all applications.

[0004] There are a number of issues with such known covers, including but not limited to the following. Fragments of the frangible cover can interfere with the launch and operation of the munition, as they can get wedged in the fins and intakes of the munition. Post launch, fragments also have to be cleared from the munition container and surrounding area. Failure of the cover to break and / or tear as intended can result in a failed launch. The impact of the munition against the underside of the cover can cause damage to the munition. This is especially relevant to modern munitions which can contain sensitive elements or surfaces at or near the head. The function of such surfaces may be impeded by scratches or other seemingly small damage. Additionally, covers need to be specific to the type of munition being accommodated within the container.

[0005] It is an aim of the present invention to provide a container for munitions with a cover that mitigates at least some of the above issues.SUMMARY

[0006] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a container for launch of a munition having a hollow body portion for accommodating the munition, and a cover through which, on launch of the munition, the munition passes; the cover comprising: a frame attached to the body; and a closure comprising a plurality of sections; each of the plurality of sections comprising a hinged edge attached to the frame at a hinge, and at least one non-hinged edge, wherein the non-hinged edges cooperatively engage with one another so as to resist external pressure applied from the exterior of the container, and such that, on launch of the munition, the sections open outwards from the container so as to release the munition. This arrangement provides a container with a reusable cover which as well as resisting external pressure applied to the exterior of the container, enables the launch of the munition without the risk of debris.

[0007] In an example, the non-hinged edges abut one another thus maintaining the closure and protecting the munition within the container.

[0008] In an example, on application of a force from the interior of the container to one of the plurality of sections, each of the plurality of sections moves about the hinged edge to open the container, thus ensuring that the container opens without requiring the munition to contact each of the sections.

[0009] In an example, each of the at least one non-hinged edge cooperatively engages with one non-hinged edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of sections to form a peak pointing away from the frame. As the combined size of the plurality of sections is greater than the size of the opening of the container, the risk of external pressure causing the cover to collapse into the hollow of the container is significantly reduced.

[0010] In an example, each of the at least one non-hinged edge cooperatively engages using an interlock arrangement with one non-hinged edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of sections thereby locking the sections in place when the closure is in a closed configuration.

[0011] In an example, one of the non-hinged edges overlaps the one non-hinged edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of sections in a closed configuration.

[0012] In an example, each of the at least one non-hinged edge at least partially overlaps the one non-hinged edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of sections in an open configuration.

[0013] In an example, the closure is formed from a carbon-fibre reinforced material, thus providing a high strength advantages.

[0014] In an example, an interior surface of the cover comprises a low friction coating. The low friction coating further reduces the risk of damage to the munition as it contacts the cover during launch from the container.

[0015] In an example, each of the plurality of sections comprises an electromagnetic interference shielding material. This protects the munition and support systems within the container from the effects of electromagnetic interference from outside of the container as well as shielding equipment outside of the container from any electromagnetic radiation apparent within the container.

[0016] In an example, an interior surface of the closure comprises geometric protrusions arranged to engage with the munition to move the closure from the closed configuration to the open configuration. Geometric protrusions provide a number of advantages including reducing the impact of the munition on the closure during launch and protecting sensitive equipment which may be apparent at the head of the munition.

[0017] In an example, the elasticity of the hinge of one section is different to the elasticity of the hinge of an adjacent section. This enables the sections to close in a predictable order to ensure that the non-hinged edges cooperatively engage correctly once the launch of the munition is complete.

[0018] In an example, each of the hinges is a living hinge.

[0019] In an example, each of the hinges is a piano type hinge.

[0020] In an example, a seal is arranged to cover the non-hinged edges of the plurality of sections thereby reducing the likelihood of unwanted material entering the container.

[0021] In an example, the seal comprises a perforated section arranged to tear when the sections open outwards thereby ensuring that the seal does not overly restrict the movement of the closure during the launch of the munition.

[0022] In an example, the seal comprises an elastic material.

[0023] In an example, at least one of the non-hinged edges comprises a gasket.

[0024] In an example, the frame is separable from a body portion of the container thereby enabling the cover to be removed, repaired and / or replaced.

[0025] In an example, the frame is attachable to the body portion using a nut and bolt arrangement.

[0026] In an example, the frame is attachable to the body portion using a clamp arrangement.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0027] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the figures, in which: Figure 1 shows a rectangular container for a munition; Figure 2 shows a cross-section of the container accommodating a munition; Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a cover for a container according to an example embodiment; Figure 4 shows a perspective cutaway view of a cover for a container according to an example embodiment; Figures 5a and 5b show a perspective view of a cover for a container in an open configuration according to an example embodiment; Figure 6 shows a perspective of a cover for a container according to an example embodiment; and Figures 7a-f show cutaway views of cooperatively engaging non-hinged edges according to example embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Referring to Figure 1, a container 10 is shown for accommodating a munition along a longitudinal axis of the container. The container comprises a plurality of generally planar rectilinear longitudinal wall portions 14 connected together to form a tubular vessel 12 having a polygonal cross-section. As shown in this example a generally square cross-section is formed although depending on the configuration of the munition, other cross-sectional shapes may be preferred, such as circular, triangular, rectangular or pentagonal.

[0029] Figure 2 shows a munition 20 accommodated in the container 10. The central longitudinal axis of the munition is referenced L. As the container has a square cross-section, the four fins 22 of the munition are received in the corners between the wall portions 14. Other munition configurations, for example, with say three or five fins, can be accommodated in a container having a triangular or pentagonal cross-section; or it is also known to use munitions which have folding fins or wings, such that the number of fins is not determinative of the container cross-section and other requirements, for example requirements of a platform onto which the container is to be integrated, can be met.

[0030] Figure 3 shows an example cover 300 which can be placed over the open end of the container 10 of Figure 1 and 2. The cover 300 comprises a frame 302 and a closure. The closure has four sections 306, only two of which are labelled in Figure 3 for clarity. Each of the four sections 306 are attached to the frame 302 at a respective hinge 310. In this example, each of the four sections 306 have two non-hinged edges 314, only one of which is visible. The non-hinged edge not visible in Figure 3 is overlapped by the visible non-hinged edge. Each of the non-hinged edges abuts an adjacent section 306 to close the cover 300 and thereby close the container 10.

[0031] In this example a peak 320 results from the combined size of the four sections 306 being greater than the size of the opening in the container 10 which they combine to close. Without deformation the sections 306 of the closure 304 thus cannot fold inwardly into the munition container 10. The sections can be manufactured from a material, such as a carbon-fibre composite material, arranged to be of sufficient strength to enable them to withstand an expected load level that might be applied to the exterior of the closure 304. This expected load may come from a number of sources, such as the exhaust or other pressure of a munition being launched from another munition container in close proximity.

[0032] When a force is applied to the interior surface (not shown) of one of the sections, which faces the interior of the container 10, the sections 306 will rotate about their respective hinges 310 thereby opening the cover 300. As will be understood, when any one of the sections 306 begins to open outwardly, it will also push outwardly on an adjacent section where the edge of that adjacent section overlaps with the section experiencing the force. The hinge 310 arrangement means that the sections 306 remain attached to the frame 302 eliminating any debris arising from the opening of the cover.

[0033] When the force is removed from the four sections 306 the elasticity of each hinge, which is biased towards a closed configuration, means they will rotate about their respective hinges 310 so as to return to the closed configuration, and close the container 310. This means that the cover 300 is able to be repeatedly reused.

[0034] While the example of Figure 3 shows the closure 304 having four sections 306, alternative examples may have a different number, for example, two, three, five, six etc.

[0035] Figure 4 is a cutaway view showing part of a cover 400 similar to that shown in Figure 3. Figure 4 shows the cover 400 having a first section 406a and a second section 406b, both of which are attached to a frame 402 at a respective hinge 410a, 410b. In this example, the hinges 410a, 410b are living hinges and are integral, respectively, to the first section 406a and second section 406b, as well as being integral to the frame 402. In this example the living hinges 410a, 410b are formed from steel which is over-moulded with a composite material forming the sections 406a, 406b and the frame 402. In this example one of the non-hinged edges of the first section 406a extends a short way under and beyond the adjacent non-hinged edge of the second section 406b before abutting a lip (not shown) of section 406b. Correspondingly, a non-hinged edge of section 406b extends a short way over the adjacent non-hinged edge of section 406a before abutting a lip (not shown) of section 406a. The two sections thus cooperatively engage in an overlap 422 and underlap abutting arrangement. The same overlap / underlap abutting arrangement is implemented on the other adjacent pairs of non-hinged edges of the other sections of the cover 400, not shown in figure 4.

[0036] When a force is applied to the first section 406a from the interior of the container, the first section 406a rotates about the axis of the hinge 410a, and the underlap (not shown) of the first section 406a is forced against the overlap 422 of the second section 406b. This causes the second section 406b to rotate about the axis of hinge 410b. The rotation of the second section 406b would then cause further sections (not shown) of the cover 400 to rotate due to the underlap 424 of the second section 406b being forced against a corresponding overlap of the further section.

[0037] A munition which is exiting the container therefore does not need to impact all sections of the cover 400 in order for it to open. This significantly increases the chances of the munition exiting the munition container without causing damage to the munition, as well as enabling the cover to be used to close munition containers with a variety of munition shapes. The hinge 410a, 410b arrangement means that the first section 406a, second 406b and further sections remain attached to the frame 402 eliminating debris from the closure which can affect the performance of the munition and the container.

[0038] In this embodiment the living hinge 410a has a different elasticity to that of the living hinge 41 0b. Therefore, once the munition has exited the container and the sections are free to close, living hinge 410a rotates at a different rate to living hinge 410b ensuring, that the cooperative engagement of the overlap 422 and underlap non-hinged edges is maintained as the sections return to the closed configuration.

[0039] Other properties of a living hinge, for example, length of the hinge along the hinged edge of a section or the thickness of the hinge could also be used to effect the movement from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

[0040] The overlaps on each of the sections may also be shaped so that even when the closure is in an open configuration, the ends of the non-hinged edges which form the overlap proximate to the hinged edge maintain an overlap with the adjacent section. These overlaps may be used individually or in combination with the properties of the hinge, regardless of the type of hinge, to effect the movement of the closure from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

[0041] Figure 5a shows an example cover 500, similar to that shown in figures 3 and 4, in an open configuration. In Figure 5a a munition 550 is shown having partially travelled through the cover 500. The portion of the cover 500 highlighted by circle C is shown in Figure 5b and shows a first section 506a having an overlap 522 at a non-hinged edge and a second section 506b having an underlap 524 at a corresponding non-hinged edge. The second section 506b has an overlap 528 on a second non-hinged edge which corresponds to an underlap 530 on a further section as shown in figure 5a. As shown in Figures 5a and 5b a munition 550 can pass through the cover 500 as the first section 506a and second section 506b are attached to the frame 502 at respective hinges 510a, 510b. The hinges of cover 500 are living hinges, similar to those described above with regard to Figure 4.

[0042] In this embodiment the bottom surfaces of the cover 500 are coated with a low friction coating of polytetrafluoroethylene. Other low friction coatings such as perfluoroalkoxy alkane could also be used. These surfaces come into contact with the munition 550 head as it impacts and passes through the cover and so provide further protection against potential damage to any delicate surfaces on the munition head.

[0043] Figure 6 shows an example cover 600 for a container. In this example, the cover 600 is separable from a body portion of the container (not shown). The frame 602 of the cover 600 is attachable to the body portion using releasable fastenings such as a nut and bolt arrangement, one bolt of which is labelled 660. Alternatively, a clamp arrangement may be used to attach the cover to the body portion of the container, such as a C-Clamp. Further alternative arrangements which could be used to attach the cover to the body include permanent adhesives, pop-rivets or snap-features which are used on injection moulded plastic parts.

[0044] In this example, the cover 600 is coated with a sealing material which in this example is an elastic material in the form of a polyurethane coating. This seal protects the munition and its support system from ingress of water and other potential contaminants passing through the closure and into the body of the container. The seal may be formed using a variety of techniques including, but not limited to, injection moulding and over-moulding. Alternative embodiments could include a gasket arrangement at each of the cooperatively engaged non-hinged edges, an adhesive or a sealant. In this example, the seal has lines of weakness 680 along the cooperatively engaged non-hinged edges of the sections to enable the munition to easily pass through the closure 604. The lines of weakness may be perforations or areas of the seal which are thinner than other areas. Further, the closure 604 comprises Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) shielding 690 to protect the munition within the container from electromagnetic interference.

[0045] Figures 7a-e show examples of cooperatively engaged non-hinged edges. Figure 7a shows a first section 706a and a second section 706b abutting against one another so as to form arrangement 7000 in which the edges cooperatively engage to close the cover without an overlap or underlap.

[0046] Figure 7b shows a first section 706a and a second section 706b which the non-hinged edges of the first section 706a overlaps and abuts the second section 706b to form an overlap / underlap abutting arrangement 7002 to cooperatively engage to close the cover.

[0047] Figure 7c shows a first section 706a and a second section 706b which the non-hinged edges of the first section 706a overlaps and abuts the second section 706b to form an alternative overlap / underlap abutting arrangement 7004 to cooperatively engage to close the cover.

[0048] Figure 7d shows a first section 706a and a second section 706b which the non-hinged edges of the first section 706a overlaps and abuts the second section 706b to form a further alternative overlap / underlap abutting arrangement 7006 to cooperatively engage to close the cover.

[0049] Figure 7e shows a first section 706a and a second section 706b which the non-hinged edges of the first section 706a overlaps and abuts the second section 706b to interlock and form an overlap / underlap abutting interlock arrangement 7008 to cooperatively engage to close the cover.

[0050] Figure 7f shows a first section 706a and a second section 706b abutting against one another so as to form arrangement 7010, similar to arrangement 7000 illustrated in Figure 7a, in which the edges cooperatively engage to close the cover without an overlap or underlap. In arrangement 7010, however, the first section 706a and the second section 706b abut against one another at a slanting angle to the container axis, such that the edges cooperatively engage to close the cover with an overlap and corresponding underlap.

[0051] Figure 8 shows a part of a cover 804 in closed configuration over a munition 850. Cover 804 is similar to other examples described above, and functions in a similar manner. Sections 806a and 806b of cover 804 are provided with geometric protrusions 820 arranged to engage with the munition to move the closure from the closed configuration to the open configuration. Protrusions 820 align with the shape of the head of the munition 850, and act as buffers to spread the load on the missile by increasing the area of impact. In particular the protrusions engage with the head of the munition as it passes through the cover. The protrusions can provide further protection to any sensitive equipment or components that may present at the head of the munition.

[0052] It will be appreciated from the above examples, in use, the non-hinged edges of the closure cooperatively engage when the cover is in a closed configuration so as to resist any external load that might act to force the sections inwards into the container. When a munition is launched from the container, the munition impacts the interior surface of a section, or sections of the closure, causing the hinged edges of the sections to rotate about their respective axes moving the cover from a closed configuration to an open configuration as shown by example in Figures 5a and 5b. The sections remain attached to the frame at the hinged edges, and the frame in turn remains fixed to the body portion of the container. Once the munition has launched and there is no more direct pressure from the munition on the interior surfaces of the sections, the hinges, which are biased towards a closed configuration, rotate about their respective axes in the opposite direction, enabling the non-hinged edges of the sections to cooperatively engage such that the cover returns to a closed configuration. Thus a reusable munition container is provided which eliminates debris and the associated risks to the munition during launch, and risks to any personnel in the proximity of the munition container after launch.

[0053] While the above description refers to a container for launch of a munition, the term canister or launch tube are types of container which are suitable for launching munitions in the context of this invention. Additionally, missiles, projectiles, rockets, vehicles, etc. are types of munitions in the context of this invention.

[0054] It will be appreciated that while integers or features of the invention that are described as preferable, advantageous or convenient have been described herein with respect to example embodiments. Those integers or features should not be limited to those example embodiments alone and may be preferable, advantageous and convenient in other example embodiments described herein.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0028]Referring to Figure 1, a container 10 is shown for accommodating a munition along a longitudinal axis of the container. The container comprises a plurality of generally planar rectilinear longitudinal wall portions 14 connected together to form a tubular vessel 12 having a polygonal cross-section. As shown in this example a generally square cross-section is formed although depending on the configuration of the munition, other cross-sectional shapes may be preferred, such as circular, triangular, rectangular or pentagonal.

[0029]Figure 2 shows a munition 20 accommodated in the container 10. The central longitudinal axis of the munition is referenced L. As the container has a square cross-section, the four fins 22 of the munition are received in the corners between the wall portions 14. Other munition configurations, for example, with say three or five fins, can be accommodated in a container having a triangular or pentagonal cross-section; or it is also known to use munitions wh...

FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a container for the launch of a munition and more specifically a container with a cover arranged to close the container.BACKGROUND

[0002] Munition containers are used to accommodate munitions, such as missiles or rockets, during transit to provide protection. Munitions can also be deployed in munition containers, also referred to as missile canisters or launch tubes, ready for launch and may be stacked together in a multi-container munition system.

[0003] It is known for munition containers to have covers which close the container and offer some level of protection to the munition accommodated within. Some known covers use frangible materials arranged to break and / or tear as the munition impacts the underside of the cover during launch. Other known covers are actuated so as to open like doors, but such covers can use a large amount of space, which may not be available in all applications.

[0004] There are a number of issues with such known covers, including but not limited to the following. Fragments of the frangible cover can interfere with the launch and operation of the munition, as they can get wedged in the fins and intakes of the munition. Post launch, fragments also have to be cleared from the munition container and surrounding area. Failure of the cover to break and / or tear as intended can result in a failed launch. The impact of the munition against the underside of the cover can cause damage to the munition. This is especially relevant to modern munitions which can contain sensitive elements or surfaces at or near the head. The function of such surfaces may be impeded by scratches or other seemingly small damage. Additionally, covers need to be specific to the type of munition being accommodated within the container.

[0005] It is an aim of the present invention to provide a container for munitions with a cover that mitigates at least some of the above issues.SUMMARY

[0006] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a container for launch of a munition having a hollow body portion for accommodating the munition, and a cover through which, on launch of the munition, the munition passes; the cover comprising: a frame attached to the body; and a closure comprising a plurality of sections; each of the plurality of sections comprising a hinged edge attached to the frame at a hinge, and at least one non-hinged edge, wherein the non-hinged edges cooperatively engage with one another so as to resist external pressure applied from the exterior of the container, and such that, on launch of the munition, the sections open outwards from the container so as to release the munition. This arrangement provides a container with a reusable cover which as well as resisting external pressure applied to the exterior of the container, enables the launch of the munition without the risk of debris.

[0007] In an example, the non-hinged edges abut one another thus maintaining the closure and protecting the munition within the container.

[0008] In an example, on application of a force from the interior of the container to one of the plurality of sections, each of the plurality of sections moves about the hinged edge to open the container, thus ensuring that the container opens without requiring the munition to contact each of the sections.

[0009] In an example, each of the at least one non-hinged edge cooperatively engages with one non-hinged edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of sections to form a peak pointing away from the frame. As the combined size of the plurality of sections is greater than the size of the opening of the container, the risk of external pressure causing the cover to collapse into the hollow of the container is significantly reduced.

[0010] In an example, each of the at least one non-hinged edge cooperatively engages using an interlock arrangement with one non-hinged edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of sections thereby locking the sections in place when the closure is in a closed configuration.

[0011] In an example, one of the non-hinged edges overlaps the one non-hinged edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of sections in a closed configuration.

[0012] In an example, each of the at least one non-hinged edge at least partially overlaps the one non-hinged edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of sections in an open configuration.

[0013] In an example, the closure is formed from a carbon-fibre reinforced material, thus providing a high strength advantages.

[0014] In an example, an interior surface of the cover comprises a low friction coating. The low friction coating further reduces the risk of damage to the munition as it contacts the cover during launch from the container.

[0015] In an example, each of the plurality of sections comprises an electromagnetic interference shielding material. This protects the munition and support systems within the container from the effects of electromagnetic interference from outside of the container as well as shielding equipment outside of the container from any electromagnetic radiation apparent within the container.

[0016] In an example, an interior surface of the closure comprises geometric protrusions arranged to engage with the munition to move the closure from the closed configuration to the open configuration. Geometric protrusions provide a number of advantages including reducing the impact of the munition on the closure during launch and protecting sensitive equipment which may be apparent at the head of the munition.

[0017] In an example, the elasticity of the hinge of one section is different to the elasticity of the hinge of an adjacent section. This enables the sections to close in a predictable order to ensure that the non-hinged edges cooperatively engage correctly once the launch of the munition is complete.

[0018] In an example, each of the hinges is a living hinge.

[0019] In an example, each of the hinges is a piano type hinge.

[0020] In an example, a seal is arranged to cover the non-hinged edges of the plurality of sections thereby reducing the likelihood of unwanted material entering the container.

[0021] In an example, the seal comprises a perforated section arranged to tear when the sections open outwards thereby ensuring that the seal does not overly restrict the movement of the closure during the launch of the munition.

[0022] In an example, the seal comprises an elastic material.

[0023] In an example, at least one of the non-hinged edges comprises a gasket.

[0024] In an example, the frame is separable from a body portion of the container thereby enabling the cover to be removed, repaired and / or replaced.

[0025] In an example, the frame is attachable to the body portion using a nut and bolt arrangement.

[0026] In an example, the frame is attachable to the body portion using a clamp arrangement.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0027] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the figures, in which: Figure 1 shows a rectangular container for a munition; Figure 2 shows a cross-section of the container accommodating a munition; Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a cover for a container according to an example embodiment; Figure 4 shows a perspective cutaway view of a cover for a container according to an example embodiment; Figures 5a and 5b show a perspective view of a cover for a container in an open configuration according to an example embodiment; Figure 6 shows a perspective of a cover for a container according to an example embodiment; and Figures 7a-f show cutaway views of cooperatively engaging non-hinged edges according to example embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Referring to Figure 1, a container 10 is shown for accommodating a munition along a longitudinal axis of the container. The container comprises a plurality of generally planar rectilinear longitudinal wall portions 14 connected together to form a tubular vessel 12 having a polygonal cross-section. As shown in this example a generally square cross-section is formed although depending on the configuration of the munition, other cross-sectional shapes may be preferred, such as circular, triangular, rectangular or pentagonal.

[0029] Figure 2 shows a munition 20 accommodated in the container 10. The central longitudinal axis of the munition is referenced L. As the container has a square cross-section, the four fins 22 of the munition are received in the corners between the wall portions 14. Other munition configurations, for example, with say three or five fins, can be accommodated in a container having a triangular or pentagonal cross-section; or it is also known to use munitions which have folding fins or wings, such that the number of fins is not determinative of the container cross-section and other requirements, for example requirements of a platform onto which the container is to be integrated, can be met.

[0030] Figure 3 shows an example cover 300 which can be placed over the open end of the container 10 of Figure 1 and 2. The cover 300 comprises a frame 302 and a closure. The closure has four sections 306, only two of which are labelled in Figure 3 for clarity. Each of the four sections 306 are attached to the frame 302 at a respective hinge 310. In this example, each of the four sections 306 have two non-hinged edges 314, only one of which is visible. The non-hinged edge not visible in Figure 3 is overlapped by the visible non-hinged edge. Each of the non-hinged edges abuts an adjacent section 306 to close the cover 300 and thereby close the container 10.

[0031] In this example a peak 320 results from the combined size of the four sections 306 being greater than the size of the opening in the container 10 which they combine to close. Without deformation the sections 306 of the closure 304 thus cannot fold inwardly into the munition container 10. The sections can be manufactured from a material, such as a carbon-fibre composite material, arranged to be of sufficient strength to enable them to withstand an expected load level that might be applied to the exterior of the closure 304. This expected load may come from a number of sources, such as the exhaust or other pressure of a munition being launched from another munition container in close proximity.

[0032] When a force is applied to the interior surface (not shown) of one of the sections, which faces the interior of the container 10, the sections 306 will rotate about their respective hinges 310 thereby opening the cover 300. As will be understood, when any one of the sections 306 begins to open outwardly, it will also push outwardly on an adjacent section where the edge of that adjacent section overlaps with the section experiencing the force. The hinge 310 arrangement means that the sections 306 remain attached to the frame 302 eliminating any debris arising from the opening of the cover.

[0033] When the force is removed from the four sections 306 the elasticity of each hinge, which is biased towards a closed configuration, means they will rotate about their respective hinges 310 so as to return to the closed configuration, and close the container 310. This means that the cover 300 is able to be repeatedly reused.

[0034] While the example of Figure 3 shows the closure 304 having four sections 306, alternative examples may have a different number, for example, two, three, five, six etc.

[0035] Figure 4 is a cutaway view showing part of a cover 400 similar to that shown in Figure 3. Figure 4 shows the cover 400 having a first section 406a and a second section 406b, both of which are attached to a frame 402 at a respective hinge 410a, 410b. In this example, the hinges 410a, 410b are living hinges and are integral, respectively, to the first section 406a and second section 406b, as well as being integral to the frame 402. In this example the living hinges 410a, 410b are formed from steel which is over-moulded with a composite material forming the sections 406a, 406b and the frame 402. In this example one of the non-hinged edges of the first section 406a extends a short way under and beyond the adjacent non-hinged edge of the second section 406b before abutting a lip (not shown) of section 406b. Correspondingly, a non-hinged edge of section 406b extends a short way over the adjacent non-hinged edge of section 406a before abutting a lip (not shown) of section 406a. The two sections thus cooperatively engage in an overlap 422 and underlap abutting arrangement. The same overlap / underlap abutting arrangement is implemented on the other adjacent pairs of non-hinged edges of the other sections of the cover 400, not shown in figure 4.

[0036] When a force is applied to the first section 406a from the interior of the container, the first section 406a rotates about the axis of the hinge 410a, and the underlap (not shown) of the first section 406a is forced against the overlap 422 of the second section 406b. This causes the second section 406b to rotate about the axis of hinge 410b. The rotation of the second section 406b would then cause further sections (not shown) of the cover 400 to rotate due to the underlap 424 of the second section 406b being forced against a corresponding overlap of the further section.

[0037] A munition which is exiting the container therefore does not need to impact all sections of the cover 400 in order for it to open. This significantly increases the chances of the munition exiting the munition container without causing damage to the munition, as well as enabling the cover to be used to close munition containers with a variety of munition shapes. The hinge 410a, 410b arrangement means that the first section 406a, second 406b and further sections remain attached to the frame 402 eliminating debris from the closure which can affect the performance of the munition and the container.

[0038] In this embodiment the living hinge 410a has a different elasticity to that of the living hinge 41 0b. Therefore, once the munition has exited the container and the sections are free to close, living hinge 410a rotates at a different rate to living hinge 410b ensuring, that the cooperative engagement of the overlap 422 and underlap non-hinged edges is maintained as the sections return to the closed configuration.

[0039] Other properties of a living hinge, for example, length of the hinge along the hinged edge of a section or the thickness of the hinge could also be used to effect the movement from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

[0040] The overlaps on each of the sections may also be shaped so that even when the closure is in an open configuration, the ends of the non-hinged edges which form the overlap proximate to the hinged edge maintain an overlap with the adjacent section. These overlaps may be used individually or in combination with the properties of the hinge, regardless of the type of hinge, to effect the movement of the closure from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

[0041] Figure 5a shows an example cover 500, similar to that shown in figures 3 and 4, in an open configuration. In Figure 5a a munition 550 is shown having partially travelled through the cover 500. The portion of the cover 500 highlighted by circle C is shown in Figure 5b and shows a first section 506a having an overlap 522 at a non-hinged edge and a second section 506b having an underlap 524 at a corresponding non-hinged edge. The second section 506b has an overlap 528 on a second non-hinged edge which corresponds to an underlap 530 on a further section as shown in figure 5a. As shown in Figures 5a and 5b a munition 550 can pass through the cover 500 as the first section 506a and second section 506b are attached to the frame 502 at respective hinges 510a, 510b. The hinges of cover 500 are living hinges, similar to those described above with regard to Figure 4.

[0042] In this embodiment the bottom surfaces of the cover 500 are coated with a low friction coating of polytetrafluoroethylene. Other low friction coatings such as perfluoroalkoxy alkane could also be used. These surfaces come into contact with the munition 550 head as it impacts and passes through the cover and so provide further protection against potential damage to any delicate surfaces on the munition head.

[0043] Figure 6 shows an example cover 600 for a container. In this example, the cover 600 is separable from a body portion of the container (not shown). The frame 602 of the cover 600 is attachable to the body portion using releasable fastenings such as a nut and bolt arrangement, one bolt of which is labelled 660. Alternatively, a clamp arrangement may be used to attach the cover to the body portion of the container, such as a C-Clamp. Further alternative arrangements which could be used to attach the cover to the body include permanent adhesives, pop-rivets or snap-features which are used on injection moulded plastic parts.

[0044] In this example, the cover 600 is coated with a sealing material which in this example is an elastic material in the form of a polyurethane coating. This seal protects the munition and its support system from ingress of water and other potential contaminants passing through the closure and into the body of the container. The seal may be formed using a variety of techniques including, but not limited to, injection moulding and over-moulding. Alternative embodiments could include a gasket arrangement at each of the cooperatively engaged non-hinged edges, an adhesive or a sealant. In this example, the seal has lines of weakness 680 along the cooperatively engaged non-hinged edges of the sections to enable the munition to easily pass through the closure 604. The lines of weakness may be perforations or areas of the seal which are thinner than other areas. Further, the closure 604 comprises Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) shielding 690 to protect the munition within the container from electromagnetic interference.

[0045] Figures 7a-e show examples of cooperatively engaged non-hinged edges. Figure 7a shows a first section 706a and a second section 706b abutting against one another so as to form arrangement 7000 in which the edges cooperatively engage to close the cover without an overlap or underlap.

[0046] Figure 7b shows a first section 706a and a second section 706b which the non-hinged edges of the first section 706a overlaps and abuts the second section 706b to form an overlap / underlap abutting arrangement 7002 to cooperatively engage to close the cover.

[0047] Figure 7c shows a first section 706a and a second section 706b which the non-hinged edges of the first section 706a overlaps and abuts the second section 706b to form an alternative overlap / underlap abutting arrangement 7004 to cooperatively engage to close the cover.

[0048] Figure 7d shows a first section 706a and a second section 706b which the non-hinged edges of the first section 706a overlaps and abuts the second section 706b to form a further alternative overlap / underlap abutting arrangement 7006 to cooperatively engage to close the cover.

[0049] Figure 7e shows a first section 706a and a second section 706b which the non-hinged edges of the first section 706a overlaps and abuts the second section 706b to interlock and form an overlap / underlap abutting interlock arrangement 7008 to cooperatively engage to close the cover.

[0050] Figure 7f shows a first section 706a and a second section 706b abutting against one another so as to form arrangement 7010, similar to arrangement 7000 illustrated in Figure 7a, in which the edges cooperatively engage to close the cover without an overlap or underlap. In arrangement 7010, however, the first section 706a and the second section 706b abut against one another at a slanting angle to the container axis, such that the edges cooperatively engage to close the cover with an overlap and corresponding underlap.

[0051] Figure 8 shows a part of a cover 804 in closed configuration over a munition 850. Cover 804 is similar to other examples described above, and functions in a similar manner. Sections 806a and 806b of cover 804 are provided with geometric protrusions 820 arranged to engage with the munition to move the closure from the closed configuration to the open configuration. Protrusions 820 align with the shape of the head of the munition 850, and act as buffers to spread the load on the missile by increasing the area of impact. In particular the protrusions engage with the head of the munition as it passes through the cover. The protrusions can provide further protection to any sensitive equipment or components that may present at the head of the munition.

[0052] It will be appreciated from the above examples, in use, the non-hinged edges of the closure cooperatively engage when the cover is in a closed configuration so as to resist any external load that might act to force the sections inwards into the container. When a munition is launched from the container, the munition impacts the interior surface of a section, or sections of the closure, causing the hinged edges of the sections to rotate about their respective axes moving the cover from a closed configuration to an open configuration as shown by example in Figures 5a and 5b. The sections remain attached to the frame at the hinged edges, and the frame in turn remains fixed to the body portion of the container. Once the munition has launched and there is no more direct pressure from the munition on the interior surfaces of the sections, the hinges, which are biased towards a closed configuration, rotate about their respective axes in the opposite direction, enabling the non-hinged edges of the sections to cooperatively engage such that the cover returns to a closed configuration. Thus a reusable munition container is provided which eliminates debris and the associated risks to the munition during launch, and risks to any personnel in the proximity of the munition container after launch.

[0053] While the above description refers to a container for launch of a munition, the term canister or launch tube are types of container which are suitable for launching munitions in the context of this invention. Additionally, missiles, projectiles, rockets, vehicles, etc. are types of munitions in the context of this invention.

[0054] It will be appreciated that while integers or features of the invention that are described as preferable, advantageous or convenient have been described herein with respect to example embodiments. Those integers or features should not be limited to those example embodiments alone and may be preferable, advantageous and convenient in other example embodiments described herein.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0028]Referring to Figure 1, a container 10 is shown for accommodating a munition along a longitudinal axis of the container. The container comprises a plurality of generally planar rectilinear longitudinal wall portions 14 connected together to form a tubular vessel 12 having a polygonal cross-section. As shown in this example a generally square cross-section is formed although depending on the configuration of the munition, other cross-sectional shapes may be preferred, such as circular, triangular, rectangular or pentagonal.

[0029]Figure 2 shows a munition 20 accommodated in the container 10. The central longitudinal axis of the munition is referenced L. As the container has a square cross-section, the four fins 22 of the munition are received in the corners between the wall portions 14. Other munition configurations, for example, with say three or five fins, can be accommodated in a container having a triangular or pentagonal cross-section; or it is also known to use munitions wh...

Claims

1. A container for launch of a munition having a hollow body portion for accommodating the munition, and a cover through which, on launch of the munition, the munition passes; the cover comprising: a frame attached to the body; and a closure comprising a plurality of sections; each of the plurality of sections comprising a hinged edge attached to the frame at a hinge, and at least one non-hinged edge, wherein the non-hinged edges cooperatively engage with one another so as to resist external pressure applied from the exterior of the container, and such that, on launch of the munition, the sections open outwards from the container so as to release the munition.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the non-hinged edges abut one another.

3. The container of claim 1 or claim 2 wherein, on application of a force from the interior of the container to one of the plurality of sections, each of the plurality of sections moves about the hinged edge to open the container.

4. The container of any preceding claim wherein each of the at least one non-hinged edge cooperatively engages with one non-hinged edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of sections to form a peak pointing away from the frame.

5. The container of any preceding claim wherein each of the at least one non-hinged edge cooperatively engages using an interlock arrangement with one non-hinged edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of sections.

6. The container of any preceding claim wherein one of the non-hinged edges overlaps the one non-hinged edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of sections in a closed configuration.

7. The container of any preceding claim wherein each of the at least one non-hinged edge at least partially overlaps the one non-hinged edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of sections in an open configuration.

8. The container of any preceding claim wherein the closure is formed from a carbon-fibre reinforced material.

9. The container according to any of claims 2 to 8 wherein an interior surface of the cover comprises a low friction coating.

10. The container according to any preceding claim wherein each of the plurality of sections comprises an electromagnetic interference shielding material.

11. The container according to any of claims 2 to 10 wherein an interior surface of the closure comprises geometric protrusions arranged to engage with the munition to move the closure from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

12. The container according to any preceding claim wherein the elasticity of the hinge of one section is different to the elasticity of the hinge of an adjacent section.

13. The container of any of any preceding claim comprising a seal arranged to cover the non-hinged edges of the plurality of sections.

14. The container of claim 13 wherein the seal comprises a perforated section arranged to tear when the sections open outwards.

15. The container of any preceding claim wherein the frame is separable from a body portion of the container.

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