Shells and cannon charges

Abstract

A shell (1) including a housing (10), a stabilizing element (50), in particular a stabilizing disk, and in particular an ignition tube (70), wherein the shell (1) and / or the housing are combustible, the shell (1) extends in a longitudinal direction (L), the housing (10) may in particular include a floor (20), a cover (30) and a leading edge (40), a cavity (12) is formed inside the shell (1), the cavity (12) is designed to receive a propellant, and the cavity (12) is separated by the stabilizing element (50) into a first sub-cavity (14) and a second sub-cavity (16).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to shells, in particular shells using an injectable charge or injectable propellant, and to artillery charges, in particular artillery charges using an injectable propellant. [Background technology]

[0002] Artillery charges are used to accelerate a projectile so that it can reach its target. Therefore, artillery charges also contribute to the projectile's range. Therefore, to increase the projectile's range, the amount of propellant in the artillery charge must be increased to increase the projectile's kinetic energy, taking into account other parameters of the weapon. However, the problem with increasing range by increasing the propellant amount is that the maximum outer diameter of the artillery charge is typically limited by the gun used. Therefore, increasing range is achieved by either increasing the length of the shell for the artillery charge or decreasing the diameter of the shell wall, both of which increase the propellant amount. In practice, artillery charges typically use modular shells that are joined together. While modular shells offer high stability, they suffer from the disadvantage that the cover and floor meet at the contact point (double wall), resulting in a loss of maximum usable propellant capacity. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to increase the stability of an artillery charge, or a shell for an artillery charge. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] This object is solved by a shell for an artillery charge according to claim 1 and by an artillery charge according to claim 15. Advantageous embodiments are shown in the dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0005] According to the present invention, there is provided a shell, which preferably comprises a housing and a stabilizing element, in particular a stabilizing disk, and in particular an ignition tube, wherein the shell and / or the housing are combustible, the shell is elongated in the longitudinal direction, the housing may in particular comprise a floor, a cover, and a creasing, and a cavity is formed inside the shell, the cavity is designed to receive a propellant, and the cavity is separated by the stabilizing element into a first subcavity and a second subcavity. Alternatively or additionally, the cavity can also be preferably separated into further subcavities, in particular by further stabilizing elements. This is advantageous and even necessary for stability reasons, especially when the length of the shell exceeds 1100 mm. Advantageously, the cavity is delimited from the periphery in the longitudinal direction by at least the floor and / or the cover, and in the transverse direction by the creasing. The shell is placed in the cannon and serves to accelerate the artillery projectile, in particular the cannon shell, by ignition of a charge or propellant that may be introduced or placed in a charge space or cavity so that the projectile can leave the cannon and in particular reach a flight or target area. The shell is elongated in a longitudinal direction, in particular the direction in which the length of the shell is determined.

[0006] Alternatively or additionally, the longitudinal direction can preferably be the direction in which the shell has its largest main dimension. Advantageously, the center of gravity or volumetric center of gravity of the shell lies in the longitudinal direction. It is particularly preferred that the shell and / or the housing are rotationally symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal direction, at least in cross sections along the longitudinal direction, in order to ensure easy handling of the shell by the soldier. Furthermore, in this way, particularly advantageous mechanical designs can be achieved, since local stress peaks can preferably be avoided or reduced as a result. Perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is in particular the transverse direction. In other words, the transverse direction can refer to a direction radially away from the longitudinal direction. Advantageously, the tangential direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal and / or transverse directions, and / or the circumferential direction, also called the circumferential direction, is perpendicular to the longitudinal and / or transverse directions. Preferably, the longitudinal, transverse, and circumferential directions form a cylindrical coordinate system with one another, with the longitudinal direction forming a height coordinate, the transverse direction forming a radial coordinate, and the circumferential direction forming an angular coordinate. The shell includes a housing for separating the interior of the shell or cavity from the environment, which in turn may include a floor, cover, and / or creases.

[0007] The individual components of the housing can each be formed by a separate, particularly integral, element or by several different elements. However, to achieve particularly good stabilization, it is particularly desirable for the floor and / or cover to be formed integrally with the leading or leading component. The floor and / or cover define the shell's extent, particularly in the longitudinal direction, while the leading serves to define the shell's extent, particularly in the lateral direction. Advantageously, the cover is designed as a cap. The interior of the housing is the shell cavity, into which a charge or propellant, particularly an injectable propellant, can be introduced. The propellant serves to generate the acceleration of the artillery projectile by an exothermic reaction. A stabilizing element for the shell, which can particularly be a stabilizing disk, is arranged in the cavity. Preferably, the stabilizing element is arranged to mechanically couple two laterally opposing inner parts of the housing, particularly the leading. In other words, the stabilizing element can achieve a "direct" force transmission between two opposing components of the shell, particularly the inner walls, in a manner similar to a mechanical bridge. Direct force transmission does not necessarily mean that the force is transmitted (exclusively) via the cover or floor, but rather that force transmission between opposing inner walls of the leading is possible via one or more stabilizing elements in addition to the floor and cover. The stabilizing elements thus advantageously connect opposing components of the leading, in particular the inner wall or walls, in particular in the lateral direction. The leading can also be referred to as a shell leading. For this purpose, the stabilizing element or elements are fixed or fastened, in particular, to the inner wall of the leading. The fixing of the stabilizing element can advantageously be performed so that the fixing or the fixing area of the stabilizing element is circumferential around the longitudinal periphery. In other words, the fixing area or the fixing surface or surfaces of the stabilizing element can form a self-contained contour that revolves around the longitudinal periphery. By disposing the stabilizing elements in the cavity, the cavity is separated into two charge subcavities, in particular a first subcavity and a second subcavity.In other words, the stabilizing element divides the cavity into separate sub-cavities, which are advantageously interconnected at most by passages through the stabilizing element. By dividing the cavity into sub-cavities by the stabilizing element, it is possible in particular to achieve damping of vibrations, and it is also possible to increase the stiffness and mechanical stability of the shell. Preferably, the stabilizing element is a stabilizing disk. By stabilizing disk, it is understood that the extension of the stabilizing disk, in particular in the lateral direction, is greater in one direction than in a direction perpendicular thereto, in particular in the longitudinal direction.

[0008] Advantageously, the shell does not include just one stabilizing element, but several stabilizing elements, particularly spaced apart in the longitudinal direction. The features of the stabilizing elements described above and below can be applied in part or in whole to one, a major portion, and / or all of the stabilizing elements. The minimum distance between the cover and / or floor and the (respective) nearest stabilizing element in the longitudinal direction should be at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, particularly preferably at least 25%, and especially preferably at least 30% of the maximum longitudinal extension of the shell. In this way, a particularly high increase in the stability of the shell can be achieved by the stabilizing element or elements. The shell, or at least its housing, is advantageously combustible. By combustible, it is understood that this component, in particular, can burn, in particular by an exothermic reaction. In particular, the shell or housing is completely combustible.

[0009] Advantageously, the shell is symmetrical or asymmetrical. Symmetrical design means, in particular, that there is at least one plane of mirror symmetry, the normal of which is parallel to the longitudinal direction. In other words, for example, the upper half of the shell can be formed mirror-symmetrical with respect to the lower half of the shell. This makes it particularly easy and convenient to ignite the charge in the cavity of the shell. However, it can also be designed asymmetrical in order to make handling of the shell easier for the soldier. Asymmetrical design means, in particular, that there is no plane parallel to the longitudinal direction, perpendicular to which the shell is designed mirror-symmetrical.

[0010] Advantageously, the floor and the cover are formed identically. Even more advantageously, all or some, in particular two, of the components of the leading are formed / manufactured identically. In particular, formed / manufactured identically is understood to mean that the components are formed identically except for manufacturing variations. In other words, identical / similarly formed components can therefore be interchanged with one another, at least in thought, without causing geometric changes to the shell. In particular, this simplifies the manufacture of the shell and / or its components and allows for cost reductions / savings.

[0011] Advantageously, the propellant charge is introduced into the cavity, in particular into the subcavity or the first and / or second subcavity, advantageously in an injectable form, in particular in the form of a powder or granules. By injectable form, it is particularly understood that the propellant charge advantageously has a maximum main dimension of preferably about 10 to about 18 mm, where the maximum main dimension of the propellant charge depends, at the discretion of the skilled person, on the charge space and projectile weight of the weapon. As a rule, a larger charge space and / or a heavier projectile weight correlates with a larger particle size of the propellant charge. In the context of the present invention, the charge space is particularly referred to as or is formed by a cavity. Preferably, the diameter and length of the propellant charge are approximately the same with regard to the selection of the maximum main dimension. Alternatively or additionally, it is also understood that the injectable shape of the propellant charge preferably means that the propellant charge is formed by solid particles whose main extensions do not have the same preferred orientation relative to each other. Examples of injectable forms of propellant include charges in powder or granular form. The advantage of an injectable form of propellant powder is that it allows for easy filling of the shell or cannon charge. However, in the case of injectable propellants, it is precisely the use of stabilizing elements that can have a particularly positive effect on the negative stability of the shell or cannon charge. In other words, the use of stabilizing elements according to the invention is therefore particularly advantageous for shells with injectable propellant.

[0012] The shell according to the invention can contain a propellant charge. The propellant charge used can contain perforated channels.

[0013] Furthermore, the propellant advantageously does not have a rod shape. By rod-shaped propellant, rod-shaped powder, rod-shaped gunpowder, etc., it is meant in particular a propellant that is essentially approximately the same length as the shell itself. By powder that is essentially approximately the same length as the shell, it is understood that the maximum deviation from the length of the shell is 25%, preferably 10% or less. Such rod-shaped powders are arranged in a bundle, i.e., along longitudinal axes that are parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shell and parallel to each other.

[0014] The shell preferably has a longitudinal length of approximately 720 mm and / or approximately 960 mm and / or approximately 1300 mm. In particular, for shells longer than 700 mm, the shell's stability is particularly unstable or low, especially if the artillery charge or shell propellant is in injectable form, so it is particularly advantageous to provide a stabilizing element, especially in the form of a stabilizing disk. However, if the longitudinal extension of the shell is at least 950 mm or 960 mm, the range of the shell's projectile can be particularly effectively increased. Furthermore, if the longitudinal length of the shell is at least 950 mm or at least 1300 mm or 1380 mm, the use of a stabilizing element in the shell housing can provide particularly good mechanical stability for the shell.

[0015] Advantageously, the leading or shell is at least partially, preferably completely, rotationally symmetric, especially in the longitudinal direction. The rotationally symmetric design of the leading, especially in the longitudinal direction, allows for particularly simple manufacture. Furthermore, the surface area to volume ratio of the cavity, also called charge space, can be favorably influenced thereby, resulting in material savings and, at the same time, in a favorable influence on the stability of the entire housing.

[0016] Advantageously, the leading or shell is cylindrical. Preferably, at least the leading is designed to be completely rotationally symmetric or at least substantially completely rotationally symmetric. However, if it is designed to be substantially rotationally symmetric, some recesses and / or holes may occur in the leading during manufacturing, and / or deviations from perfect rotational symmetry may occur. However, it is particularly preferred that the leading is at least partially, in particular completely, cylindrical. In other words, the leading or some of its components can be formed cylindrically, preferably completely, at least in cross section, in particular in longitudinal cross section. This cylindrical and / or rotationally symmetric formation of the leading can particularly relate to the inner and / or outer walls of the leading. The cylindrical design of the leading allows for particularly simple and inexpensive manufacturing. Alternatively or additionally, preferably, the cover and / or floor are formed rotationally symmetrically, preferably completely, at least in cross section, in particular in the longitudinal direction. This particularly simplifies the manufacturing of the cover and / or floor.

[0017] The stabilizing element is preferably properly fixed to the crease, in particular to the inner wall of the crease, which provides particularly good stabilization. The inner wall or inner wall is the wall or wall of the crease that forms the outer boundary of the cavity, in particular when viewed from the side. The stabilizing element is fixed to the crease, in particular by a material bond, for example by gluing and / or welding.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally, the cover and / or floor can preferably also be fixed to the leading edge by means of a material bond, which provides particularly high mechanical strength and can also provide well-defined braking properties.

[0019] Advantageously, the leading edge is formed in several / multiple parts, and in particular the leading edge advantageously includes a bottom leading edge and a cover leading edge. The bottom leading edge is the part of the leading edge formed in the longitudinal direction, in particular closest to the floor, and the cover leading edge is the part of the leading edge formed and / or located in the longitudinal direction, in particular closest to the cover. By forming the leading edge in multiple parts, simplification of manufacturing can be achieved. Furthermore, the multi-part design of the leading edge and the relative connection of the individual components of the leading edge to each other also provide reinforcement and, as a result, improved stability of the shell. It should be understood that the multi-part design of the leading edge, in which several components of the leading edge are present, defines the cavity, in particular laterally with respect to the periphery. However, advantageously, the cover and / or the floor of the shell are not counted as components of the leading edge. It is particularly advantageous if at least some, and particularly preferably all, of the components of the leading edge are formed so as not to overlap each other, in particular in the longitudinal direction, with respect to one of the closest / adjacent components. By non-overlapping, it is understood that the projections of the (related) components, in particular in the longitudinal direction, do not overlap one another. By forming one or more components of the leading so that they do not overlap with respect to adjacent components of the leading, a particularly material-saving production can be achieved, which results in a cost-effective shell.

[0020] The leading or one or all of its components preferably have a leading wall thickness, which may be constant and / or may be 2 mm or more and / or 3.5 mm or less. A constant wall thickness is understood to mean that the local wall thickness of the leading or associated components may deviate from the average wall thickness of the leading by up to 10%. The use of a constant wall thickness for at least one, preferably a major, and particularly preferably all, component parts of the leading allows for particularly cost-effective manufacturing. If the leading wall thickness is 2 mm or more (>=2 mm), this allows for particularly good increased stability and / or at least a constant minimum stability of the shell or its housing or leading. If the leading wall thickness is 3.5 mm or less (<=3.5 mm), manufacturing the leading is particularly easy.

[0021] Advantageously, the stabilizing element has a wall thickness, in particular a constant wall thickness, where the wall thickness of the stabilizing element is 2 mm or more (>=2 mm) and / or 3.5 mm or less (<=3.5 mm). It is particularly preferred if the wall thickness of the stabilizing element corresponds to the wall thickness of the creasing, since this allows for a particularly uniform mechanical strength distribution. This therefore makes it possible to avoid or at least reduce local weakening of individual components, thereby, for example, creating a predetermined breaking point. With respect to the stabilizing element, the understanding already given for the constant wall thickness of the creasing can be applied in an equivalent manner. If the wall thickness of the stabilizing element is 2 mm or more (>=2 mm), this provides at least a certain minimum stability. However, if the wall thickness of the stabilizing element is 3.5 mm or less (<=3.5 mm), this can simplify manufacturing, in particular by making the stabilizing element easier to handle.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, at least two components of the leading, in particular the bottom leading and the cover leading, are mechanically connected to one another via stabilizing elements, in particular by a material bond with the stabilizing elements. By connecting the two components of the leading so that they are mechanically connected to one another via the stabilizing elements, a particularly compact arrangement and a particularly mechanically stable connection between the bottom leading and the cover leading can be achieved. Preferably, the two components mechanically connected to one another via the stabilizing elements are arranged adjacent to one another in the longitudinal direction. Mechanical connection means, in particular, that forces can be transmitted from one component to the next via the connecting components. The connection between the two components of the leading and the stabilizing elements can be made in particular by a material bond, which can preferably be made by adhesive bonding or welding.

[0023] Preferably, the stabilizing element has a mounting area for fastening to or on the leading edge, especially in the form of an outer stabilizing projection, especially in a planar manner. The stabilizing element can be laterally limited by the mounting area and / or the mounting area can be rotationally symmetrical, especially in the longitudinal direction. By providing a mounting area for fastening to and / or on the leading edge, a particularly compact design can be achieved. Advantageously, the mounting area is fastened to the inner wall of the leading edge, especially in a material-bonded manner. This fastening can be generally planar, where planar fastening is understood to essentially mean that the minimum dimension / main extent of the fastening area is greater than the wall thickness of the mating wall. A particularly mechanically stable fastening can be achieved by such a two-dimensional fastening.

[0024] Advantageously, the mounting area limits the stabilizing element in the lateral direction, which makes it possible to achieve a particularly compact and space-saving design of the stabilizing element.

[0025] Preferably, the attachment area is rotationally symmetrical. These features result in a particularly simple manufacture.

[0026] Particularly preferably, the attachment region is formed as a protrusion, especially in the longitudinal direction. This further increases the mechanical stability of the attachment region. By protrusion, in particular, is meant a region that protrudes from an adjacent region of the element. Preferably, both the adjacent region and the protrusion have the same wall thickness and / or the same material. Preferably, the protrusion forms an angle with the adjacent region or is a region that is substantially 90° apart. By a substantially 90° angle, it is understood that the maximum deviation from 90° is at most 20°, preferably at most 15°, particularly preferably at most 10°, and particularly preferably at most 5°. Preferably, the protrusion according to the invention has a freely tapered edge or a freely tapered end, which is formed or extends, in particular in the protrusion direction and / or in the longitudinal direction. In addition to this freely tapered edge, the protrusion also has a connecting end, in particular connected to the adjacent region; the connecting end is particularly connected to the adjacent region; therefore, in particular, the protrusion and the adjacent region are formed integrally with each other and therefore, in particular, form parts of the same element. In particular, the connecting end can be rounded. Advantageously, the projection extends over at least three times, preferably at least five times, the longitudinal material or wall thickness of the element bearing the projection. In other words, the longitudinal dimension of the projection can be at least three times, preferably at least five times, the material or wall thickness of the projection. By providing the attachment area as a projection, a particularly high stability can be achieved.

[0027] In an advantageous embodiment, the attachment region extends in the longitudinal direction and / or is tubular, particularly around the longitudinal circumference. By "extending in the longitudinal direction," it is understood that the attachment region extends at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction, and preferably also in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and / or perpendicular to the transverse direction, e.g., in the orbital direction and / or tangential direction. Such an embodiment in which the attachment region extends in the longitudinal direction allows for particularly compact embodiments. The tubular design of the element essentially means that the element forms a closed cross section, particularly in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. In other words, in one possible embodiment, the component completely surrounds the longitudinal direction. A tubular design therefore allows for a particularly high level of stability, since local stress-increasing factors, such as protrusions, recesses, or breakthroughs, are avoided.

[0028] Advantageously, the attachment area extends at least 10 times, preferably at least 15 times, particularly preferably at least 20 times, and most preferably about 25 times the material or wall thickness of the stabilizing element and / or the leading wall thickness in the longitudinal direction. In this way, particularly good and simple two-dimensional fixing possibilities are realized, and such embodiments can also further increase the stability of the shell. In this context, extension is understood to mean a protrusion of the relevant element or component in the relevant direction.

[0029] Preferably, the attachment area has an extension, especially in the longitudinal direction, of at least 50 mm, particularly preferably at least 75 mm. The extension in the control direction is especially the length of the projection of the attachment area in the control direction, and thus especially in the longitudinal direction. If the attachment area has an extension, especially in the longitudinal direction, of at least 50 mm, this can achieve particularly good stabilization. However, if the extension is at least 75 mm, this can simplify the assembly and handling of the shell, especially during production.

[0030] Preferably, the ratio of the extension of the attachment region, especially in the longitudinal direction, to the diameter of the stabilizing element or the diameter of the shell is at least 0.1. Preferably, the ratio is in the range of 0.3 to 0.5. The diameter of the stabilizing element and / or the diameter of the shell is the diameter of a circle that can exactly surround the critical element (stabilizing element or shell), and this circle lies in a plane, especially a plane whose normal is parallel to the longitudinal direction. The decisive factor for determining the ratio can be the maximum diameter, the minimum diameter, or the arithmetic mean of the maximum and minimum diameters. A ratio in the range of 0.3 to 0.5 allows for particularly simple and advantageous assembly and stabilization of the shell.

[0031] Advantageously, the shell has an ignition tube. Particularly preferably, the ignition tube extends in the longitudinal direction. The provision of the ignition tube allows for rapid and uniform ignition of the propellant of the shell or artillery charge. Preferably, the ignition tube extends over at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, particularly preferably at least 50%, particularly preferably at least 70%, and very particularly preferably at least 95% of the longitudinal extension of the shell. This allows for particularly uniform and rapid ignition of the propellant present. Advantageously, the ignition tube extends in the longitudinal direction, which allows for a particularly symmetrical and uniform arrangement or spacing of the ignition tube relative to the charge volume of the propellant or cavity.

[0032] In particular, the stabilizing element has an ignition tube opening through which the ignition tube extends or can extend. Advantageously, the ignition tube opening can be formed through the central region, in particular in the form of an inner stabilizing projection, and the ignition tube opening can be formed through and / or surrounding the stabilizing projection. By providing an opening in the stabilizing element through which the ignition tube extends, the stability of the shell can be further increased. Advantageously, the ignition tube contacts the stabilizing element in the ignition tube opening and / or the ignition tube is fixed to the stabilizing element, in particular by a material bond, in the ignition tube opening. Advantageously, the ignition tube opening has a diameter in the range of 20 mm to 40 mm, allowing for safe accommodation of the ignition tube.

[0033] In an advantageous embodiment, the ratio between the diameter of the ignition tube opening and the diameter of the stabilizing element and / or the diameter of the leading edge and / or the diameter of the centering element is in the range of 0.12 to 0.25, preferably 0.21 to 0.23. When this ratio is in the range of 0.12 to 0.25, this can result in particularly good stabilization of the ignition tube and / or the shell. On the other hand, when the ratio is in the range of 0.21 to 0.23, this can result in particularly simple and fast assembly of the ignition tube. Within the specified limits, both can ensure excellent stability and at the same time very good expansion of the ignition jet.

[0034] Preferably, the ignition tube opening is formed through the central region, and the ignition tube is preferably positioned against the central region, preferably in a planar manner, and / or the central region and / or the ignition tube opening are rotationally symmetric, particularly in the longitudinal direction. It may be particularly advantageous if the ignition tube opening and / or the central region are formed by a protrusion. By providing the central region, particularly good stabilization and centering of the ignition tube and / or the shell can be achieved. The rotationally symmetric design of the central region, particularly in the longitudinal direction, allows for particularly simple manufacturing.

[0035] In a particular embodiment, the diameter of the ignition tube opening can be widened in proportion to the diameter of the ignition tube, so that in particular the existing centering element can be pressed in with its central projection, the walls in this region preferably at least partially adjoining each other. It is particularly preferred here if the shell comprises two centering elements, one on each of its ends.

[0036] In an advantageous embodiment, the central region extends in the longitudinal direction and / or is tubular, particularly around the longitudinal direction. In this context, extending in the longitudinal direction can be understood to mean that the central region extends at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction and / or, preferably, also in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and / or perpendicular to the transverse direction, particularly in the circumferential and / or tangential direction. In this way, a particularly compact and space-saving design of the central region can be realized. On the other hand, if the central region is tubular, this can result in a particularly mechanically stable design. Preferably, the design of the central region or any tubular region can be cylindrical and / or conical, particularly at least in cross section, and the axis of rotational symmetry of the tubular cross section can be located along the longitudinal direction.

[0037] Advantageously, the central region has an extension, especially in the longitudinal direction, of at least 20 mm to 50 mm, preferably at least 30 mm to 40 mm. Extension is again understood as the length of the protrusion in the direction of extension of the central region, especially in the longitudinal direction. If the central region has an extension of at least 20 mm to 50 mm, this can provide particularly good stabilization of the ignition tube and / or shell. However, if the extension is at least 30 mm to 40 mm, this can result in a reduced shell wall thickness and / or an increased length, especially compared to conventional shells, so that more propellant can be added and / or the stability of the shell can be improved.

[0038] The ratio of the extension of the central region to the diameter of the stabilizing element and / or the diameter of the centering element and / or the diameter of the leading edge, particularly in the longitudinal direction, is preferably in the range of 0.12 to 0.34, more preferably in the range of 0.18 to 0.31. A ratio in the range of 0.12 to 0.34 provides particularly good stabilization of the ignition tube and / or the shell. However, a ratio in the range of 0.18 to 0.31 facilitates the assembly of the ignition tube and the manufacture of the central region.

[0039] Advantageously, the stabilizing element is integrally formed. "Integral" is understood to mean in particular that the stabilizing element or critical element is not formed by several joined components. By providing the stabilizing element as integral, its stability can be increased, and thereby the stability of the shell.

[0040] Advantageously, the stabilizing element has a connecting region, particularly in the form of a disk region or disk area, which can have a planar design or be planar and / or mechanically connect the central region (also referred to as the support region) to the mounting region and / or be formed laterally between the central region and the mounting region. Planar design particularly means that the extension of the region lies between two (imaginary) planes, which are parallel to each other and whose distance between the two planes is at most 1.5 times, preferably at most 1.3 times, and particularly preferably at most 1.2 times the material thickness and / or wall thickness of the planar region. The material thickness can correspond to the wall thickness, if the wall is formed by a material layer. Designing the stabilizing element so that the connecting region is planar allows for particularly easy production, and tensile forces can be transmitted particularly easily and reliably. Connecting the central region to the mounting region via the connecting region allows for a particularly compact and simple design of the stabilizing element, which can result in cost savings. Furthermore, the design of the coupling area, which is located laterally between the central area and the mounting area, increases the compactness of the stabilizing element, making it easier to design the stabilizing element for small-caliber weapons and shells.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment of the stabilizing element, its centering portion and / or its side projections extend in only one direction perpendicular to the stabilizing hole plate, in other words, the centering portion and the side projections can extend in the same direction, in particular both in the positive and negative longitudinal direction.

[0042] In alternative embodiments of the stabilizing element, its centering portion and / or its lateral projections extend in opposite directions, in particular perpendicular to the area connecting the centering portion and the lateral projections, in other words, the centering portion can therefore extend in the negative longitudinal direction and the lateral projections in the positive longitudinal direction, or vice versa.

[0043] Preferably, the stabilizing element has a gas passage opening through which gas exchange between at least two subcavities of the cavity separated by the stabilizing element, in particular between the first and second subcavities, is possible. This allows for particularly good and uniform combustion or homogeneous ignition of the charges or propellants placed in the first and / or second subcavities. In particular, the gas passage opening can have a rounded, in particular elliptical or circular, cross section to facilitate its manufacture. Furthermore, such a design can prevent or at least minimize the formation of cracks.

[0044] In an advantageous embodiment, the gas passage openings are arranged in the connecting region, in particular exclusively in the connecting region, which allows for particularly simple manufacture and also allows for a particularly short extension of the gas passage openings, thereby allowing for a particularly fast, simple and streamlined gas exchange.

[0045] Desirably, the ratio of the mean diameter of the propellant, particularly in injectable form, to the diameter of the gas passage opening is in the range of 1.1 to 3.0, preferably 1.5 to 2.5. The mean diameter of the propellant is, in particular, the arithmetic mean of the maximum and minimum diameters or major dimensions of the individual charge elements or particles of the propellant. Advantageously, the average of 100 measurements or determinations of the arithmetic mean diameters is decisive for determining the mean diameter. On the other hand, the diameter of the gas passage opening is, in particular, the diameter of the smallest possible circle that can surround the gas passage opening (individually), which circle is advantageously located in a plane oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. A ratio in the range of 1.5 to 3.0 effectively secures the propellant in each subcavity. However, a ratio in the range of 1.5 to 2.5 simplifies the manufacture of the stabilizing element and / or the gas passage opening.

[0046] Preferably, the gas passage openings extend in the longitudinal direction. The path or path direction of the gas passage openings is in particular from one end of the gas passage opening to the other end of the gas passage opening. By providing the gas passage openings in the longitudinal direction, it is possible to provide a particularly short gas passage path, which reduces the flow resistance during the gas passage.

[0047] Advantageously, the area proportion of the stabilizing element, projected onto a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, formed by the projection of the gas passage openings is in the range of 5% to 15%, preferably in the range of 8% to 12%, and particularly preferably about 9% to 11%. In other words, when the stabilizing element is viewed in the longitudinal direction, 5% to 15%, preferably 8% to 12%, and particularly preferably about 9% to 11% of the visible area of the stabilizing element can be formed by the gas passage openings. When the area proportion is in the range of 5% to 15%, a particularly advantageous and simple possibility for the passage of gas through the stabilizing element is realized. On the other hand, when the area proportion is in the range of 8% to 12%, this results in a particularly high stabilizing effect of the stabilizing element. When the area proportion of all gas passage openings is about 9% to 11%, particularly in relation to the area provided for the stabilizing element, very good stability is realized in combination with very high gas permeability.

[0048] Advantageously, the floor, the cover, and / or the crease, or one of the components of the crease, is manufactured from the same material as the stabilizing element. This allows the shell to be manufactured particularly cost-effectively. It is particularly desirable if the shell element is made from the same material as the stabilizing element and is in contact with and / or bonded to the stabilizing element on its surface. In this way, stress concentrations, particularly those induced by heat, can be avoided or at least reduced. This is particularly advantageous for use in particularly hot and / or particularly cold regions, such as regions with a continental climate or deserts, where the temperature differences between summer and winter are particularly large.

[0049] Advantageously, at least one of the components of the floor, cover, and / or leading or leading and / or stabilizing element is made of nitrocellulose and / or cellulose, particularly in a ratio of 80:20 to 50:50. Optionally, the shell, preferably at least on the outer surface, can contain a binder resin or PU impregnation. In this embodiment, the ratio of the total amount of nitrocellulose and cellulose to the total amount of binder resin and polyurethane is preferably 95:5 to 80:20. Also preferably, a stabilizer is added at a concentration of 0.5% to 3%, based on the total content of the other components. Optionally, an erosion-reducing additive can be used at an additive concentration of 5% to 15%. This material selection can further increase the stability of the shell in particular.

[0050] The shell preferably has at least one centering element, in particular a centering disk, which is arranged to center the ignition tube. In this way, the exact position of the ignition tube can be better determined. Centering means that the centering element supports and / or holds the ignition tube in its position, in particular at one of its distal ends. In particular, the centering element holds or centers the ignition tube so that the centered portion of the ignition tube, in particular one of the distal end portions of the ignition tube, is located longitudinally. Thus, the or each centering element serves in particular to achieve centering of the ignition tube or the distal end of the ignition tube in the shell. However, alternatively or additionally, the or each centering disk can preferably also stabilize the shell. To reliably affect stability, it is advantageous if the or each centering disk is fixed to the floor or cover, respectively. This fixation can be achieved in particular by material-bonding.

[0051] Preferably, at least one centering element is arranged in the floor area or the cover area. Particularly preferably, the shell has at least one centering element in the floor area and one centering element in the cover area. The cover area is in particular an area of the shell that is longitudinally spaced from the cover by at most 15%, preferably at most 10%, particularly preferably at most 5% of the maximum longitudinal extent of the shell. Similarly, the floor area is in particular an area that is longitudinally spaced from the floor by at most 15%, preferably at most 10%, particularly preferably at most 5% of the maximum longitudinal extent of the shell.

[0052] In an advantageous embodiment, at least one centering element has a centering portion, in particular a centering protrusion, which is partially surrounded by the ignition tube and / or which is in contact with and / or mechanically connected to the centering portion. The centering portion, in particular in the form of a centering protrusion, can further increase the stability of the shell. The centering protrusion is in particular a protrusion extending in the longitudinal direction. Advantageously, the centering protrusion or centering portion is rotationally symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal direction. This allows for a particularly good and simple centering effect of the centering element.

[0053] Advantageously, not only one centering element has some or all of the preceding or succeeding features, but also all centering elements, in particular each centering element in the cover area and in the floor area.

[0054] In an advantageous embodiment, the centering part has a central opening, in other words, the centering part or the centering projection, when viewed by itself, can be continuous in the area of the centering part, in this way particularly good accessibility in the longitudinal direction of the ignition tube, in particular the distal end of the ignition tube, can be achieved.

[0055] Advantageously, the ignition tube is attached to the centering part by a material bond, in particular at the distal longitudinal end of the ignition tube, which allows a particularly good centering and support effect of the ignition tube by the centering element.

[0056] The centering part preferably extends and / or projects longitudinally, in particular with respect to adjacent components of the centering element, in such a way that a particularly compact and space-saving design of the centering part can be achieved, while nevertheless increasing the moment of inertia of the area.

[0057] Alternatively or additionally, in a preferred embodiment, the longitudinal projection of the centering part and the ignition tube overlap in the longitudinal direction by at least 10 mm, preferably at least 15 mm. By overlap of the projections, it is understood that the projections have an overlap area in the relevant direction, especially in the longitudinal direction. This overlap area has an extension, especially in the longitudinal direction, of at least 10 mm, preferably at least 15 mm. The overlap area therefore, in other words, includes the projections of both the centering part and the ignition tube. If the overlap has a size of at least 10 mm in the relevant direction, especially in the longitudinal direction, this allows for particularly simple assembly. On the other hand, if the overlap is at least 15 mm, a particularly stable mechanical connection of the ignition tube can be achieved.

[0058] Preferably, at least one centering element has a lateral protrusion, in particular a lateral centering protrusion, which can extend in the longitudinal direction and can be fixed to the base, the cover, and / or the leading edge. More preferably, the lateral protrusion defines the lateral boundary of the centering disk. In particular, this lateral protrusion can serve to fix the lateral position of the centering element, whereby the lateral protrusion can be a lateral centering protrusion. By providing a lateral protrusion, the stability of the shell can be further increased, in particular by increasing the moment of inertia of the surface. In order to securely fix the lateral protrusion or the centering element, it should be fixed to the base, the cover, and / or the leading edge, in particular by a material bond, for example by welding or gluing.

[0059] In an advantageous embodiment, the side projections and the projections of the leading overlap, especially in the longitudinal direction, by at least 10 mm, preferably in the range of 20 to 30 mm. If the overlap is at least 10 mm, particularly good stabilization can be achieved. On the other hand, if the overlap is in the range of 20 to 30 mm, the manufacture or assembly of the side projections, especially on the leading, is easier.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, at least one centering element is delimited in the lateral direction by its / one of the lateral protrusions, which effectively increases the moment of inertia of the surface and therefore realizes a particularly good increase in the stability of the centering element. Alternatively or additionally, the formation of cracks at the distal lateral ends of the centering element can be prevented or minimized, which thus also contributes to increasing the stability of the shell and / or the centering element.

[0061] Preferably, the side projections extend in the longitudinal direction and / or are tubular, particularly in the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal extension of the side projections allows for particularly good attachment, in particular leading and / or planar fixation of the side projections with respect to the cover and / or bottom. Furthermore, as a result, the moment of inertia of the area can also be further increased. On the other hand, if the side projections are tubular, particularly in the longitudinal direction, this can also increase stability, in particular by preventing cracks, and thus such a design can improve the overall mechanical integrity or mechanical stability of the shell.

[0062] Preferably, the ratio of the minimum longitudinal distance of the stabilizing element to the floor and / or cover to the maximum longitudinal extension of the shell is in the range of 0.3 to 0.7, preferably in the range of 0.4 to 0.6. The above-mentioned ratio can relate to individual stabilizing elements, to a majority of the provided stabilizing elements, and / or to all stabilizing elements. In other words, the longitudinal distance of the stabilizing element to the floor and / or cover can be within a certain range. Particularly relevant distances are the minimum or maximum distance that an element or component of the stabilizing element has relative to the floor and / or cover. A ratio in the range of 0.3 to 0.7 allows for a particularly uniform load distribution in the cavity. However, a ratio in the range of 0.4 to 0.6 can further increase the stability of the shell.

[0063] Preferably, the projections of one or all stabilizing elements and / or one or all centering elements (considered for each element or all elements) are longitudinally aligned. By aligned, it is understood that in particular the projections of the individual elements or components all extend in the positive direction or all extend in the negative direction. In other words, in an aligned configuration, all projections may be, for example, directed away from the cover, or all projections may be directed towards the cover. By forming one or more centering elements or one or more stabilizing elements in the same direction, skew or asymmetric loading can be reduced or prevented.

[0064] The mounting region of the stabilizing element preferably has a longer longitudinal extension than the central region of the stabilizing element. This is due in particular to the fact that the mounting region of the stabilizing element is subjected to significantly greater loads than the central region. Advantageously, the ratio of the longitudinal length of the central region to the longitudinal length of the mounting region is in the range of 0.25 to 0.7. This also means that the mounting region can safely provide additional forces for supporting or centering the ignition tube.

[0065] A further aspect of the invention can relate to an artillery charge. Advantageously, the artillery charge comprises a shell as described above and below. Advantageously, the propellant, in particular the injected propellant, is present in a cavity of the shell, in particular in the first and second subcavities. In other words, the cavity, the first and / or the second subcavity can be filled with propellant.

[0066] Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description with reference to the figures, whereby individual features of the illustrated embodiments can also be adopted by other embodiments, unless expressly excluded. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0067] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view of the shell taken along a cross-sectional plane extending longitudinally and transversely. [Figure 2] Detailed cross-section of the stabilizing element of the shell. [Figure 3] Detailed cross-section of the centering element of the shell. [Figure 4] Shell with continuous ignition tube. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0068] Figure 1 shows a shell 1. Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view, the cross-section being defined by a longitudinal direction L and a transverse direction Q. The longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction Q are perpendicular to each other.

[0069] The shell 1 includes a housing 10, which defines an interior or cavity 12 of the shell 1 relative to the periphery. The housing 10 has a floor 20 and a cover 30. The floor 20 and the cover 30 each define the shell 1 in the longitudinal direction L. For stability reasons, the floor 20 is integrally formed with a leading 40. The cover 30, on the other hand, is fixed to the leading 40, in particular the cover leading 44, by a material bond. The leading 40 defines the boundary of the shell 1 in the lateral direction Q. Facing the cover 30, the leading 40 has a cover leading 44. The cover leading 44 is mechanically connected to the bottom leading 42 via a stabilizing element 50. Both the bottom leading 42 and the cover leading 44 have a constant leading wall thickness d40.

[0070] The stabilizing element 50 is configured as a stabilizing disk and is fixed to the shell 40, i.e., to both the cover shell 44 and the floor shell 42, by means of a material bond via its attachment region 52, which is configured as an outer stabilizing projection. As already explained, the attachment region 52 extends in the longitudinal direction L and is configured as a projection in the longitudinal direction L. Furthermore, the attachment region 52 limits the stabilizing element 50 in the lateral direction Q. In order to achieve particularly advantageous stabilization of the shell 1, the attachment region 52 of the stabilizing element 50 is configured tubular with respect to the longitudinal direction L and rotationally symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal direction L.

[0071] The stabilizing element 50 separates the cavity 12 into a first sub-cavity 14 and a second sub-cavity 16 .

[0072] To accommodate an ignition tube 70 extending in the longitudinal direction L of the shell 1, the stabilizing element 50 comprises an ignition tube opening 54. This ignition tube opening 54 is defined or surrounded by a central region 56 formed as an inner stabilizing projection. The central region 56 is formed as a projection formed in the longitudinal direction L. The central region 56 supports the ignition tube 70, to which the ignition tube 70 is fixed by a material bond.

[0073] In the lateral direction Q between the attachment region 52 and the central region 56 extends a planar connecting region 58 formed as a disk-shaped region of the integral stabilizing element 50 .

[0074] To achieve centering of the ignition tube 70, the shell 1 has a centering element 80 in the floor region. The centering element 80 is fixed to the floor 20 by material bonding, as is the bottom crest 42. To improve centering of the ignition tube 70, the centering element 80 has a centering portion 82, which in the example provided is a centering protrusion 82. This centering protrusion 82 is also formed as a protrusion in the longitudinal direction L. To achieve particularly good and precise positioning of the centering element 80, the latter has, in its distal end region in the transverse direction Q, a lateral protrusion 86, which is also formed as a protrusion in the longitudinal direction L. Via this lateral protrusion 86, the centering element 80 is connected by material bonding to the bottom crest 42, which is formed integrally with the floor 20. To facilitate ignition of the ignition tube 70, the centering element 80 has a central opening 84 formed in the transverse direction Q via the centering protrusion 82.

[0075] 2 shows a detailed view of the shell 1 in the region of the stabilizing element 50. The stabilizing element 50 has two protrusions formed in the same direction. This unidirectional design of the protrusions of the stabilizing element 50 is advantageously (but not exclusively) provided if the stabilizing element 50 has an assembly region 52 as well as a central region 56 in the form of protrusions in the longitudinal direction L.

[0076] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the attachment region 52 preferably has a greater extension in the longitudinal direction L than the central region 56 .

[0077] To achieve a mechanical connection between the central region 56 and the attachment region 52, the stabilizing element 50 has a connection region 58, which in the illustrated example is formed as a disk region. The stabilizing element 50 has a constant wall thickness d50.

[0078] To allow a gas passage through the stabilizing element 50, the latter has a gas passage opening 59 extending in the longitudinal direction L. Gas exchange therefore takes place via the gas passage opening 59 between the two charge sub-spaces of the cavity 12, in particular the first sub-cavity 14 and the second sub-cavity 16.

[0079] Additionally, the stabilizing element 50 serves to provide a mechanical connection between the floor leading 42 and the cover leading 44, both of which have a constant leading wall thickness d40.

[0080] 3 shows a detailed view of the floor area of the shell 1. In the floor area of the shell 1, a centering element 80 is arranged, characterized by lateral projections 86 in the transverse direction Q. In its central area, the centering element 80 has a centering portion 82 in which a central opening 84 is provided.

[0081] The centering element 82 has an outer periphery at which the distal end of the ignition tube 70 in the longitudinal direction L is located. To achieve a particularly mechanically resilient design, the centering element 80 is fixed to the base 20 by a material bond. To facilitate ignition of the ignition tube 70, the base 20 has an opening that allows access from the periphery to a central opening 84 or the interior of the centering projection 82.

[0082] 4 shows an embodiment of the shell 1 in which the ignition tube 70 has a continuous design. The ignition tube 70 is therefore connected at both distal ends, particularly in the longitudinal direction L, to the respective centering element 80, in particular to the respective centering section 82 of the respective centering element 80. The centering section 82 extends in each case into the ignition tube 70 such that the ignition tube 70 and the centering element 80 overlap. A stabilizing element 50 is arranged between each centering element 80, and the ignition tube 70 is guided through the ignition tube opening 54 of the stabilizing element 50. To achieve high stability, the stabilizing element 50 is connected to the leading edge 40 by a material bond via the attachment area 52 formed as an outer stabilizing projection. [Explanation of symbols]

[0083] 1 - Shell 10 - Housing 12 - Cavity 14 - 1st subcavity 16 - Second subcavity 20 - Floor 30 - Covers, especially caps 40 - Leading 42 - Bottom Creeding 44 - Cover Creeding 50 - Stabilizing element 52 - mounting area, especially the outer stabilizing projection 54 - Ignition tube opening 56 - Central region, especially the medial stabilizing process 58 - Combined area, especially disk area 59 - Gas passage opening 70 - Ignition tube 80 - Centering elements, especially centering disks 82 - Centering part, especially centering protrusion 84 - central opening 86 - Lateral projections, especially lateral centering projections 90 - Propellant d40 - Creeding wall thickness d50 - wall thickness of the stabilizing element (50) L - Longitudinal Q - Horizontal

Claims

1. A shell (1) comprising a housing (10), a stabilizing element (50), in particular a stabilizing disc, and in particular an ignition tube (70), the shell (1) and / or the housing are combustible; The shell (1) extends in a longitudinal direction (L), The housing (10) may include, inter alia, a floor (20), a cover (30), and a leading (40), A cavity (12) is formed inside the shell (1), The cavity (12) is designed to receive a propellant charge; The cavity (12) is separated by the stabilizing element (50) into at least a first sub-cavity (14) and a second sub-cavity (16). Shell (1).

2. Said leading (40) or said shell is at least partly rotationally symmetrical or cylindrical, in particular with respect to said longitudinal direction (L). A shell (1) according to claim 1.

3. The stabilizing element (50) is fixed to the leading (40). A shell (1) according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The leading (40) is formed of multiple parts, The leading (40) includes, in particular, a bottom leading (42) and a cover leading (44). A shell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. the stabilizing element (50) has an attachment area (52), in particular in the form of an outer stabilizing lug, for fixing it with respect to the leading (40), in particular over an area; said stabilizing element (50) is limited in the lateral direction (Q) by an attachment area (52); and / or A shell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The attachment area (52) is formed rotationally symmetrically, in particular with respect to the longitudinal direction (L). A shell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. the attachment area (52) is formed as a protrusion, in particular in the longitudinal direction (L); A shell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. the attachment area (52) is tubular, in particular around the longitudinal direction (L); A shell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The ignition tube (70) extends in the longitudinal direction (L). A shell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The stabilizing element (50) has an ignition tube opening (54), The ignition tube (70) extends through the ignition tube opening (54). A shell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. the ignition tube opening (54) is defined by a central area (56), in particular in the form of an inner stabilizing projection; A shell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The ignition tube (70) is preferably placed flat against, in particular against, the central region (56) and / or The central region (56) and / or the ignition tube opening (54) are formed rotationally symmetrically, in particular with respect to the longitudinal direction (L). Shell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, in particular claim 11.

13. the central region (56) is tubular, in particular tubular around the longitudinal direction (L); Shell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, in particular according to any one of claims 11 or 12.

14. The stabilizing element (50) has a bonding area (58), in particular a disc area, the bonding area (58) is planar; and / or the coupling region (58) mechanically couples the central region (56) to the attachment region (52); and / or The coupling region (58) is formed in the lateral direction (Q) between the central region (56) and the attachment region (52). A shell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A charge for artillery, comprising a shell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, a propellant, in particular an injectable propellant, is present in said cavities, in particular in the first sub-cavity (14) and the second sub-cavity (16); Cannon charge.

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