Mine Storage and Launch System

Abstract

A container system for storing and launching mines, comprising a container and a conveyor. The conveyor is disposed inside the container and oriented so that mines can be stored or transported on the conveyor. At least two conveyors are disposed parallel to each other and arranged in at least two layers with different vertical heights so that mines can be stored in multiple layers within the container to optimally use the storage space within the container, thereby reducing the space required for mine storage on a ship or increasing the mine capacity on a ship. The system includes a lifting container and a launching container, which reliably transport mines from the storage container to the ramp of the launching container for automatic launching.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of storage and transportation of naval mines, including methods for launching mines from ships such as multipurpose vessels. [Background technology]

[0002] This disclosure relates to mine storage systems and the transportation of mines. Traditionally, mines have been transported by specialized cargo ships designed solely for that purpose, and ports have been specially constructed with facilities for loading mines onto ships. As such, only certain ports could load mines onto ships. Furthermore, minelaying vessels have been specially constructed with tracks to transport mines around or to the end of the ship for laying. This means that the vessels were built solely for this purpose and could not be combined with other purposes such as armed vessels. When minelaying vessels navigated hostile waters, support from other vessels was required to protect the minelayer. This made minelaying vessels expensive and logistically complicated for naval forces. Naval ships are currently being developed with several multipurpose decks, also called modular decks, which can be reconfigured for different purposes, such as carrying technical equipment for measurement or espionage, storing missiles and weapons, storing and launching mines, etc. For this reason, systems and modules are being developed for storing and laying mines from such ships.

[0003] An example of a mine storage and launch system is disclosed in European Patent No. 3245124 (B1), which is incorporated herein by reference. A problem with this and other systems today is that when stored in such systems, the mines occupy a large area of ​​the ship. Additionally, the containers are connected using connecting tracks that require manual assembly, which adds to the complexity of the system.

[0004] Another problem in minelaying is providing an automated system that automatically delivers mines to the operator when they are needed for laying. When laying mines underwater, they must be oriented correctly. This can be done by dropping them from the rear of a ship at a specific angle. The problem with this is that ships at sea do not always maintain a flat, horizontal position; they tilt depending on wind, maneuvering, waves, and cargo distribution. Known systems have a ramp with a single, fixed angle. Therefore, it is impossible to control the landing of all mines so that they land correctly oriented on the seafloor. The strategy used to date has been to accept an unknown yield, as long as some mines land correctly oriented. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] European Patent No. 3245124(B1) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Numerous objects and advantages which will become apparent from the description of the invention are obtained in accordance with the first aspect of the invention by: [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A storage container for a mine handling system. The storage container is rectangular and configured to store mines. The storage container includes a container frame including a top and bottom frame, two side frames, and two end frames, and the container frame defines an interior volume of the container. The storage container further includes a mine support disposed inside the container. In the storage container, the mine support is at least one conveyor that supports stored mines when inactive, and the conveyor extends in a direction between the two end frames, so that when the conveyor is active, the mines are supported and transported toward one of the end frames. Furthermore, the conveyor and the end frames are attached relative to each other, so that when two storage containers are arranged with their end frames facing each other, mines can be transported directly between the conveyors in each storage container. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] Such storage containers allow mines to be stored in a regular-shaped container. The rectangular shape allows mines to be transferred directly from one storage container to the other when two containers are placed end-to-end. The end frames have the same size, allowing the storage container to be a modular unit. A storage container can be connected to other containers with matching end frames. Any number of storage containers can be connected in a row, allowing mines from the last storage container in the row to be transferred to the first storage container in the row.

[0009] A conveyor is an element capable of transporting materials along a predetermined path of the conveyor. A conveyor is sometimes referred to as a conveyor, and the terms are used interchangeably throughout this disclosure. A conveyor can be of any type, such as a belt conveyor, a chain conveyor, or a roller conveyor. A conveyor can be passive or active. While a conveyor is passive, it can store items on the conveyor. When a conveyor is active, it moves items along the conveyor path, which is also called conveying. By providing a conveyor inside the container, the mines can be stored on the conveyor and operated to transport the mines to or from one end of the container. By arranging the conveyor in an orientation that allows the mines to be stored on the conveyor when operated, the mines move in contact with the conveyor.

[0010] In one embodiment, the rectangularly shaped storage container has dimensions according to ISO 668 standards.

[0011] In one embodiment, the storage container includes at least two parallel conveyors arranged in at least two layers with a difference in vertical height between the top and bottom frames of the storage container so that mines can be stored and transported in parallel in multiple layers on the conveyors within the container.

[0012] In one embodiment, the storage container includes at least two parallel conveyors arranged in at least two rows with different horizontal widths between two side frames of the storage container so that mines can be stored and transported in multiple parallel rows on the conveyors within the container.

[0013] In one embodiment, the storage container includes four parallel conveyors arranged in at least four layers with different vertical heights between the top and bottom frames of the storage container so that mines can be stored and transported in four parallel layers on the conveyors within the container.

[0014] In one embodiment, the storage container includes two parallel rows of conveyors with a difference in horizontal width between two side frames of the storage container, and each row includes four parallel conveyors with a difference in vertical height between the top and bottom frames of the storage container so that mines can be stored and transported on the conveyors within the container in two rows, four layers deep.

[0015] In one embodiment, one or more conveyors are fixed to the container frame.

[0016] In one embodiment, the conveyor further comprises positioning means for limiting the axial position of mines along the length of the conveyor both when stored on the conveyor and when transported by the conveyor.

[0017] In one embodiment, the storage container further comprises guide means for restricting movement of the mine transversely to an axis along the length of the conveyor, the guide means extending from a first end frame of the container frame to a second end frame of the container.

[0018] In one embodiment, the guide means includes rails integral with the conveyor such that the guide means for restricting movement of mines on a first conveyor is integral with a second conveyor located above the mines on the first conveyor.

[0019] In another aspect, a launch container for a mine handling system is disclosed. The launch container is rectangular and configured to launch mines. The launch container comprises a container frame including a top and bottom frame, two side frames, and two end frames. The container frame defines an interior volume of the launch container, and the launch container is configured to receive mines through one end frame and launch them through the opposite end frame. The launch container includes a transfer conveyor and a launch ramp conveyor. The transfer conveyor receives mines through one end frame and transports them to the launch ramp conveyor, which extends to the opposite end frame for transporting and launching the mines through the opposite end frame. Furthermore, the transfer conveyor and the end frames are attached relative to each other, so that when the storage container and the launch container are positioned with their end frames facing each other, mines can be transported directly between the conveyors in the storage container and the launch container.

[0020] The launch container allows mines to be launched from a launch container located, for example, at the stern or side of a ship. Launching can be manual or automatic. The rectangular shape of the launch container ensures that it fits within the storage and lifting containers. A conveyor transports the mines forward toward the ramp. An operator or an automated solution can then prime the mines, for example by pulling a security split pin. The conveyor can also be a conveyor that requires manual movement of the mines. The ramp ensures that the mines are launched at a controlled speed and, consequently, at a controlled speed and angle relative to the container. The launch container system allows for control of mine launch frequency. There is no minimum frequency limit; the maximum frequency is determined by how quickly mines can be fed onto the transport conveyor and how quickly one or more operators can prime the mines.

[0021] In one embodiment, at least one end of the launch ramp conveyor is pivotally fixed so that the angle between the end and the remainder of the conveyor can be adjusted.

[0022] In one embodiment, the launch container further includes an elevator for transporting mines up and down vertically, the elevator being located at an end of the launch container opposite the launch ramp, the elevator including an elevator conveyor configured to move vertically up and down between the lower top frames, the elevator conveyor receiving mines from a storage container positioned such that the end frame of the launch container faces the end frame of the storage container, and transporting the mines onto the transfer conveyor for launching the mines.

[0023] By adding an elevator to the launch container, the launch container can receive mines from containers containing mines of multiple heights, or mines of a different height than the height of the launch container's transport conveyor, thereby allowing mines from multiple container variations to be transported to the launch container and launched.

[0024] In one aspect of the invention, a mine handling system is disclosed, the mine handling system comprising a storage container and a launch container.

[0025] In one aspect of the invention, a method for mine handling in a mine handling system is disclosed, the method comprising: - combining at least two containers from a group of containers including a storage container and a launch container and arranging them with their end frames facing each other, so that mines can be transported directly between conveyors within the containers; - handling at least one mine, - transferring the mine from a first container to a second container; Equipped with.

[0026] The use of two containers to handle mines has the advantage that any two containers in a group of containers can fit and transfer the mine from one container to the other.

[0027] In one embodiment of the method, the method comprises: - combining a storage container and a launch container and positioning them with their end frames facing each other, so that mines can be transported directly between conveyors in the container; - transferring at least one mine from a storage container to a launch container; - launching a mine from a launch container; Further provided are:

[0028] By having one storage container and one launch container, the mine handling system can launch mines from the storage container via the launch container, providing a simple and effective way to launch mines, and the system can be connected to other container modules, such as additional storage containers, to allow for the launch of more mines.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a container system for storing and launching mines is provided. The container system includes a storage container having a rectangular shape and configured to store mines therein. The container frame defines an interior volume of the container, including a top and bottom frame, two side frames, and two end frames. The storage container further includes a mine support disposed within the container, the mine support being at least two conveyors that support the stored mines when inactive. The conveyors extend in a direction between the two end frames, so that when the conveyors are activated, the mines are supported and transported toward one of the end frames. The storage container is characterized by including at least two parallel conveyors arranged in at least two layers with a difference in vertical height between the top and bottom frames of the storage container, so that mines can be stored and transported in multiple layers on the conveyors within the container in parallel.

[0030] A conveyor is understood to mean a system that transports items along a path. The path may be straight, but other shapes may also be used. A conveyor can be passive, and items may be stored on the conveyor while the conveyor is passive. Another state is when the conveyor is active, which means that it moves items along the conveyor path, which is also called conveying. By providing a conveyor inside the container, the mines can be stored on the conveyor and operated to transport the mines to or from one end of the container. By arranging the conveyor in an orientation that allows the mines to be stored on the conveyor when operated, the mines move in contact with the conveyor.

[0031] In one embodiment of the present invention, the storage container includes four parallel conveyors arranged in at least four layers with different vertical heights between the upper and lower frames of the storage container so that mines can be stored and transported in parallel on the conveyors within the container in four layers.

[0032] By arranging multiple conveyors in parallel layers, mines can be stored in layers within a container. As a result, a single container can store more mines than a conventional system, for example, on the same surface area of ​​a ship. This means that a ship can carry more mines when in service. It also increases the mine cargo load, measured by weight per container. The more layers that can be accommodated in a single container, the more mines can be stored inside the container, and therefore, the more mines can be transported and launched using this container system.

[0033] In one embodiment of the present invention, the storage container includes at least two parallel conveyors arranged in at least two rows with different horizontal widths between two side frames of the storage container, and mines can be stored and transported in parallel in multiple rows on the conveyors within the container.

[0034] In one embodiment of the invention, the storage container includes two parallel rows of conveyors with different horizontal widths between two side frames of the storage container, and each row includes four parallel conveyors with different vertical heights arranged between the top and bottom frames of the storage container so that mines can be stored and transported on the conveyors within the container in two rows, four layers deep.

[0035] By offsetting the rows horizontally, more mines can be stored inside the container, and two mines can be delivered to the launch container ramp so that two mines are ready to be launched at a time, allowing the mines to be launched more frequently.

[0036] In one embodiment of the invention, the conveyor is fixed to the container frame.

[0037] By connecting the conveyor to the frame, the conveyor is securely fixed and can carry many mines.

[0038] In one embodiment of the invention, the conveyor further comprises positioning means for limiting the axial position of mines along the length of the conveyor both when stored on the conveyor and when transported by the conveyor.

[0039] Mines placed on the conveyor can be transported along the conveyor due to friction between the conveyor and the mines. The positioning means maintains spacing between the mines during storage and ensures that the mines do not contact each other even if they slide on the conveyor. If the container containing the conveyor tilts, the friction between the conveyor and the mines may not be sufficient to move the mines, resulting in the mines beginning to slide. By providing the positioning means, if the mines come into contact with the positioning means, the positioning means can minimize or prevent the mines from sliding because the positioning means is fixedly attached to the conveyor. The positioning means are spaced apart, and mines can be placed on the conveyor between two positioning means with a gap between the positioning means and the mines. Thus, the positioning means both securely attach the mines along the length of the container to prevent them from sliding along the length of the conveyor and ensure that the mines follow the movement of the conveyor when the conveyor is operated to transport the mines in and out of the container.

[0040] In one embodiment of the invention, the container system further comprises guide means for restricting movement of the mine transversely to an axis along the length of the conveyor, the guide means extending from the first end frame of the container frame to the second end frame of the container.

[0041] The mines are secured to remain on the conveyor while stored within the container by providing guide means that limit movement of the mines perpendicular to or laterally from an axis extending from the first end frame of the container to the second end frame of the container. Substantial movement of the mines can occur only along the conveyor when the conveyor is activated to transport the mines. In one embodiment, the guide means is formed as a rail attached to the conveyor or container frame above the layer of mines. The rail does not contact the mines but is positioned close to the mines so that movement of the mines is minimized before contact with the rail. The rail can be made of metal or plastic to minimize friction between the mines and the rail and potential movement of the mines.

[0042] In one embodiment of the invention, the guide means includes rails integral with the conveyor such that the guide means for restricting movement of mines on a first conveyor is integral with a second conveyor located above the mines on the first conveyor.

[0043] By providing guide means that are rails integral with conveyors located above other conveyors, a compact system is obtained in which mines can be stored with minimal wasted space inside the container. Thus, the system can store more mines when the guide means are rails integral with the conveyors above the mines.

[0044] In one embodiment of the present invention, the container system further includes a launch container. The launch container is rectangularly shaped and configured to launch mines. The interior volume of the launch container is defined by a container frame including a top and bottom frame, two side frames, and two end frames. The launch container is for receiving mines through one end frame and launching them through the opposite end frame. The launch container includes a transfer conveyor and a launch ramp conveyor, where the transfer conveyor receives mines through one end frame and transports them to the launch ramp conveyor. The launch ramp conveyor extends to the opposite end frame for transporting and launching mines through the opposite end frame.

[0045] By providing a mine launch system including a mine launch container, mines can be launched manually or automatically from the stern or side of a ship. The rectangular shape of the launch container ensures that it fits with the storage and lifting containers. A conveyor transports the mines forward toward a ramp. An operator or an automated solution can then prime the mines, for example by pulling a security split pin. The conveyor can also be a conveyor that requires manual movement of the mines. The ramp ensures that the mines are launched at a controlled speed and, consequently, at a controlled speed and angle relative to the container. The launch container system allows for control of mine launch frequency. There is no minimum frequency limit, and the maximum frequency is determined by how quickly mines can be fed onto the transport conveyor and how quickly one or more operators can prime the mines.

[0046] In one embodiment of the invention, the container system comprises at least an end of an exit inclined conveyor that is pivotally fixed so that the angle between the end and the remaining conveyor can be adjusted.

[0047] The angle of the ramp can be controlled by pivoting the entire launch ramp conveyor or its ends. The control system may include a gear motor or hydraulic cylinder and a sensor that measures the angle of the ramp relative to the horizontal. The system can then adjust the angle so that the angle of the ramp relative to the horizontal remains constant while the angle of the container changes. Furthermore, the ramp can be rotated and stored inside the launch container for transporting the launch container. When the launch container is to be placed aft, the ramp can be rotated back to the launch position, where it extends outside the launch container.

[0048] One embodiment of the invention is a lifting container, the lifting container being rectangularly shaped and configured to lift mines. The interior volume of the launch container is defined by a container frame including an upper and lower surface frame, two side frames, and two end frames, the lifting container being configured to receive mines through one end frame, transport the mines vertically up and down between the upper and lower surface frames, and transport the mines through one of the end frames. The lifting container includes a lifting conveyor that receives mines through one end frame, transports the mines to another vertical position between the upper and lower surface frames, and transports the mines through one of the end frames.

[0049] One embodiment of the invention is a container system comprising a launch container, a lift container, and a storage container, the three containers being sized such that at least one end of each container can be connected to the other containers so that mines can be transferred from one container to the other.

[0050] By providing a lifting container including an elevator for transporting mines up and down, it is possible to receive mines from all layers in the storage container, transport them to a transfer conveyor in the launch container, and launch them from the ramp of the launch container.

[0051] In one variant of the invention, the conveyor further comprises a support element at the second end of the container for supporting mines transported in and out of the container.

[0052] In one variant of the invention, the conveyor further comprises a support element at the first end of the container for supporting mines transported in and out of the container.

[0053] Support elements located at the ends of the conveyors ensure that mines are kept in the same orientation as they are transported in and out of the storage container. Two storage containers placed side by side have a small gap between their conveyors where there is no conveyor. Therefore, mines could fall or get trapped in the gap between the two conveyors. To prevent this, support elements such as rollers are located at the ends of the conveyors. This problem occurs at least for mines that have a round cross section when viewed from above. The rollers can be located at the second end of the storage container, the first end of the storage container, or both ends of the container.

[0054] Specific examples according to aspects of the present disclosure will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in forms different from those described below and should not be construed as limited to any examples described herein. Rather, any examples are provided so that the disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. Therefore, with respect to the description of each figure, like elements will not be described in detail. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0055] [Figure 1] This shows a storage container for storing mines in layers. [Figure 2] A view of the conveyor and elements inside the storage container from the second end. [Figure 3] 1 shows the launch container. [Figure 4] 1 shows a system of containers including a launch container, a buffer container, and a storage container. [Figure 5] 1 shows a portion of a vessel having a flex deck for installing a minelaying system with launch containers, buffer containers, and storage containers. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0056] One embodiment of the invention is a mine storage container 8 for a mine handling system. A container is understood to be a module, container module, modular unit, or similar structure fabricated as a transport and / or storage unit. Such units or containers may be stacked and connected. While the term "container" is used herein, the terms module or modular unit are also used and are understood to be equivalent. The mine storage container 8 is shown in FIG. 1 and comprises an upper frame 12, a lower frame 13, two side frames 19, a first end frame 10, and a second end frame 11. These frames are connected to form a storage container frame. All frames are rectangular so that the container is rectangular. The storage container further comprises a conveyor 16, positioning means 22, and guide means 24.

[0057] The frame 20 of the storage container 8 is preferably formed to a standard cargo / shipping container size, such as the ISO 668 standard. Containers according to the ISO standard are 2,438 m wide and vary in length, with typical lengths being 6,058 m and 12,116 m, although containers can have other lengths. Typical ISO heights are 2,438 m, 2,591 m, and 2,896 m. In other embodiments, the size of the container frame 20 is designed for a dedicated purpose, such as a specific ship. Container frames are typically made of steel, but can also be made of different metals and alloys, such as aluminum.

[0058] All sides of the described containers may be closed or open. If the sides are closed, they may have walls made of metal, plastic, fabric, or other materials for the walls of the container. Doors may be provided at the ends, as mines are carried in and out of the end frames of the container. The top and bottom of the container may be permanently sealed, if desired.

[0059] The conveyors 16 are secured to a frame 20 such that the conveyors are supported by the frame and can support multiple mines. The conveyors may be secured in multiple layers to store mines 18 in multiple layers. The conveyors 16 may be secured at equal intervals from the lower frame of the storage container 8 to the upper frame of the storage container 8. This spacing allows mines to be positioned and stored on one conveyor 16 while other mines are stored on other conveyors vertically above the first mines 18.

[0060] Some embodiments of the present invention are designed to store and launch mines having a trapezoidal or cylindrical shape. Other embodiments of the mine-laying system may be designed and used for other types of mines having different shapes. The mines typically weigh between 100 and 2000 kg.

[0061] A conveyor 16 is used to transport mines into and out of storage container 8. Conveyors are well-known conveying devices for moving items along a path. Conveyors 16 used in the present invention may be chain conveyors, roller conveyors, belt conveyors, or similar types of conveyors. Where conveyors are described as being used, combinations of conveyors may also be used, such as a first portion of a conveyor being a belt conveyor and a second portion being a chain conveyor. Another variation may be a combination of a chain conveyor and a roller conveyor in one conveyor. All conveyors may be equipped with guide means to secure mines to the conveyor.

[0062] FIG. 1 illustrates a chain conveyor 16. A conveyor 16 is understood to be a system capable of transporting items placed on the conveyor along a path. The present invention may include a single conveyor extending from one side of a container to the other, two conveyors arranged side by side from one side of the container to the other, or more conveyors depending on the size of the mines to be stored. In FIG. 1, two conveyors 16 are arranged side by side to hold mines in two rows along the length of the storage container 8, with the length axis extending from the first end frame 10 to the second end frame 11 of the storage container 8. The chain conveyor 16 has two chains, one on each side of the conveyor, driven by a motor 14. The motor 14 may be electrically powered, for example, and therefore requires power to drive it. This power may be supplied by an external cable connected to the container so that activating the motor 14 allows the container to automatically move the mines. The mines are placed in contact with two chains on the conveyor 16, and when the chains are activated, the mines follow the chains. If the storage container 8 is tilted, the mines may slip down the chains. To prevent this, positioning means are attached along the chains on each side of the conveyor. When the conveyor is activated, the mines are pushed from one end of the storage container 8 to the other. Small structures extend between each mine as protrusions to prevent the mines from slipping or shifting when the conveyor is passive. When the conveyor is configured with rollers, the rollers are driven by motors 14. Friction between the rollers and the mines ensures that the mines stay in place when the rollers are not activated and follow the rollers when activated. The conveyor shown in Figure 1 is designed with two conveyors in four layers. This can be any number of layers depending on the height of the containers and mines.

[0063] FIG. 2 shows the storage container 8 as seen from the second end frame. One of the chain conveyors 16 includes two chains 17. The chains 17 are equipped with positioning means 22 secured to the chains 17, ensuring that mines 18 are transported along the chains 17 when the chains 17 are actuated by the motors 14. The positioning means 22 secures the mines 18 along the length of the storage container 8, thereby further maintaining the mines in place during transport and storage. The length of the container is the direction between the two end frames of the container. To secure the mines 18 in two other directions—a first direction extending from one side frame of the container to the other side frame of the container, and a second direction extending from the upper frame to the lower frame of the container—the storage container includes guide means 24 along the length vertically above the conveyor 16. These guide means 24 ensure that the mines 18 are securely fastened when the storage container 8 is moved during loading / transport or when moved during storage on a vessel in open seas.

[0064] Multiple storage containers 8 can be connected, for example, by connecting the first end frame 10 of one storage container 8 to the second end frame 11 of another storage container 8 using twist locks. Containers can also be connected by fastening them side-by-side to the deck floor. When two storage containers 8 are connected, mines 18 from one container can be transferred to another without the need for connecting tracks or supports that would need to be installed between the conveyors 16. To ensure that mines do not get caught or fall between the two conveyors within each container, all conveyors within a storage container 8 extend from the first end frame 10 of the storage container 8 to the second end frame 11 of the storage container 8. This means that the ends of the conveyors 16 within a storage container 8 are very close to the ends of the containers, which may be understood to be less than 5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, 20 cm, or 25 cm from the ends of the conveyors 16 to the second end frame 11 of the containers. This prevents mines 18 from falling or becoming trapped between two storage containers 8. In one embodiment of the invention, support structures, such as rollers, are added to each end of each conveyor 16 to support mines 18 as they are transferred from one storage container 8 to another.

[0065] A schematic representation of a launch container 40 according to the present invention is shown in Figure 3. The launch container includes an upper frame 54, a lower frame 47, two side frames 45, a first end frame 41, and a second end frame 43. All frames are rectangular so that the container is rectangular. These frames are connected or integrated to form a storage container frame. The side frames may be completely open or may have doors that can be opened to allow an operator to handle the mines immediately prior to launch. Preferably, the launch container has the same height and width as the storage container to facilitate easy connection of the containers, allowing for dense packing of the containers. The launch container includes a transfer conveyor 46, which includes positioning means for reliably moving the mines 18 when the transfer conveyor 46 is activated. The transfer conveyor may be a chain conveyor, roller conveyor, belt conveyor, or any standard conveyor for transporting goods. In the case of a chain-based conveyor, the mines rest on the chain, and friction between the mines and the chain ensures that the mines follow the chain. If friction is insufficient to allow the mines to follow the movement of the conveyor, a positioning device 22 fixed to the chain is placed between each mine so that the cross section of the mine overlaps the cross section of the positioning device when viewed from the second end 43 of the launch container. Because the mines cannot move along the length of the launch container beyond the positioning device 22, they are completely fixed on the launch conveyor 46. All conveyors in all containers may be equipped with positioning devices 22. Once the mines are transferred to the conveyor, they are ready for inspection and preparation by an operator or robot. After a final preparation inspection, the mines are ready to be laid or launched from the ship. An operator typically prepares the mine by withdrawing a security split pin. In another embodiment, this operation may be automatically controlled by a servo motor, eliminating the need for an operator. The transfer conveyor 46 is provided with transfer conveyor guide means to allow only the mines 18 to move along the length of the launch container, which may be understood as being from the first end 41 of the launch container 40 towards the second end frame of the launch container 40.Furthermore, the launch conveyor includes a removable transfer conveyor guide means 56 located in the middle of the two transfer conveyors, allowing the launch container 40 to be used with different types of mines, such as mines that are too large to be launched in two lines and therefore need to be launched in one line.

[0066] The frame of the launch container 40 is preferably formed to a standard cargo / shipping container size, such as the ISO 668 standard. Containers according to the ISO standard are 2,438 m wide and vary in length, with typical lengths being 6,058 m and 12,116 m, although launch containers can have other lengths, such as fractions of the standard length, when combined with lift containers. Typical ISO heights are 2,438 m, 2,591 m, and 2,896 m. In other embodiments, the size of the container frame 20 is designed for a dedicated purpose, such as a specific ship. Container frames are typically made of steel, but can also be made of different metals and alloys, such as aluminum.

[0067] All sides of the launch container can be closed or open. If the sides are closed, they can have walls made of metal, plastic, fabric, or other materials for the walls of the container. The ends of the container can be open so that the container can be connected to other containers to carry mines in and out, or the ends can have doors so that mines are carried in and out of the end frames of the container. The top and bottom of the container can be permanently sealed.

[0068] In one embodiment of the invention, mines may be secured in trays that fit onto conveyors in the storage and launch conveyors and can be secured by guide and positioning means. The trays may be part of the mine or secured to the mine. The trays are launched along with the mine. By providing removable guide means within the launch container, multiple mines of different shapes can be safely transported from the storage container 8 to the ramp 44, even if the container is subject to vibration, such as on a vessel in high seas.

[0069] When a mine is to be launched, it is transported from the transfer conveyor 46 to the ramp 44, where the mine's velocity can be controlled during deployment. The terms ramp 44 and launch ramp conveyor are used interchangeably below. The launch ramp conveyor 44 may include free-wheeling rollers 50 and / or control rollers 52. The ramp 44 may also be a belt conveyor or a chain conveyor. The ramp 44 may be divided into two sections, the first of which is pivotable about its end point and connected to the second section of the ramp. The second section of the ramp is stationary and connects the transfer conveyor to the first section of the ramp. The ramp may also consist of only one section that is pivotable about its connection to the transfer conveyor. The pivotable section of the ramp can be lowered to extend outward from the launch container 40 when the mine is ready to be launched, and can be retracted into the launch container when the launch container is transported. The mine's velocity is controlled by providing the first roller of the ramp 44, a motorized roller 52, and controlling the speed of these motorized rollers. All of the ramp rollers are free to rotate, allowing the operator to impart an initial velocity to the mine as it enters the ramp 44. The initial velocity can be very small, and the speed at the end of the ramp is controlled by the length and angle of the ramp. As the mine leaves the motorized rollers, the mine's angle of movement is less than horizontal, so gravity accelerates the mine. The angle of the ramp 44 is controlled by a gear motor or hydraulic cylinder, allowing it to rotate about a point within the launch container. This ensures that the mine 18 leaves the ramp 44 at a defined and controlled speed and angle. Because a vessel's position at sea depends at least on the vessel's cargo storage conditions and weather, the vessel's trim is important to the mine's velocity as it is laid from the launch container. Therefore, the system uses sensors in the motion reference unit to continuously measure the angle of the ramp / container, allowing a correction system to move the ramp to maintain the desired angle of the ramp 44 compared to the horizontal.

[0070] The launch container 40 may include an elevator 42. The elevator may include an elevator conveyor for transporting and storing mines on the elevator. A motor may control how the elevator conveyor moves and how the mines can be transported. The elevator conveyor may include positioning means, similar to the conveyor of the storage container. Similarly, the elevator conveyor may include guide means for securing the mines on the elevator conveyor. The elevator is configured to move the elevator conveyor vertically up and down. This can be done using a motor that moves the elevator conveyor up and down by mechanical means such as chains or gears. Figure 3 shows a launch container with an elevator 42. The elevator does not have to be part of the launch container. A launch container elevator 42 is required if the storage container contains multiple layers of mines, and therefore if the storage container contains multiple layers of conveyors.

[0071] The container handling system may further include a lifting container. The lifting container frame includes upper and lower frames, two side frames, and a first end frame 62 and a second end frame 64. All frames are rectangular so that the container is rectangular. Preferably, the lifting container has the same height and width as the storage container and launch container to allow the containers to be connected in a simple manner, and the containers can be densely packed so that there is no unused space.

[0072] The lifting container frame is preferably constructed to a standard cargo / shipping container size, such as ISO 668. ISO-standard containers are 2,438 m wide and vary in length, with typical lengths being 6,058 m and 12,116 m, although the containers can have other lengths, such as shorter lengths, when combined with launch or storage containers. The lifting container does not need to be as long to be able to carry mines up and down. Typical ISO heights are 2,438 m, 2,591 m, and 2,896 m. In other instances, the container frame size is designed for a specific purpose, such as a specific vessel or transport.

[0073] Container frames are typically made of steel, but can also be made of different metals and alloys, such as aluminum. All sides of the containers described may be closed or open. Closed sides may have walls made of metal, plastic, fabric, or other materials for the walls of the container. The ends of the container may be open, allowing the container to connect to other containers and transport mines in and out of the end frames, and doors may be provided so mines are transported in and out of the end frames. The top and bottom of the container may be permanently sealed, if desired.

[0074] The lifting container includes an elevator 42, which can move vertically up and down using a motor 14. The elevator 42 can move to all heights corresponding to the height of the conveyor 16 within the storage container 8. By being able to move to these heights, mines from all layers within the storage container 8 can be transported to the transfer conveyor 46 of the launch container 40. The elevator 42 can be positioned at the height of the conveyor 16 from the storage container 8 to receive at least one mine 18. The elevator 42 includes an elevator conveyor for receiving and transferring the mine. Furthermore, the elevator may include guide means for securing the mine on the elevator and for limiting the movement of the mine along the longitudinal axis of the launch container. After loading one or more mines onto the elevator 42, the elevator 42 moves to the same height as the transfer conveyor 46 and connects to it, and the mines can be transferred to the transfer conveyor 46.

[0075] The lifting containers can be connected to both ends of the storage container to allow mines to be loaded into the launch container 40 more quickly.

[0076] The container handling system can be configured with any combination of containers for handling mines, such as storage containers and launch containers. The containers can be connected in many different ways depending on the container's shape. The shape ensures that the end frames of each container are of equal size and fit together. This provides a container handling system in which a conveyor can transport a mine from one container to another, thereby launching the mine from the launch container.

[0077] In one embodiment, the container handling system includes two storage containers and a launch container. In this embodiment, the elevator is part of the launch container, but alternatively, the launch container does not include the elevator and the launch container is added to the container handling system, as shown in FIG.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment, one launch container 40 containing an elevator 42 and two storage containers 8 are used. The two storage containers 8 are connected in series to allow mines to be transported into the launch container 40. The storage container 8 that transports the mine directly onto the elevator 42 within the launch container 40 is called a buffer container 70. When a mine is to be launched from the system, it is transported from the buffer container 70 into the launch container 40. The elevator 42 moves to the same height as the transfer conveyor 46, transferring the mine from the elevator 42 onto the transfer conveyor 46, and the motor 14 activates the conveyor, transferring the mine onto the transfer conveyor 46. Once the mine is on the transfer conveyor 46, an operator 50 or robot can prepare the mine for launch from the ramp 44. This launch process can be controlled automatically or manually, ensuring that at least one mine is always ready for launch. As mines are used from the buffer container 70, one layer may be used at a time, so that at any given time one layer will be completely empty within the buffer container 70. To ensure that mines are always available for launch from the launch container 40, a storage container 8 may be connected to the first end of the buffer container 70. This allows mines to be transferred from the storage container 8 to an empty layer within the buffer container 70. Thus, the buffer container always has mines available for transfer into the launch container 40, allowing mines 18 to be continuously launched. This method involves emptying a storage container 8 that transfers mines to the buffer container 70, removing the empty storage container 8, and connecting a new storage container 8 filled with mines to the buffer container 70 while using mines from the buffer container 70. In this way, the operator 50 can always have mines 18 available for launch, as long as mines 18 remain on board the vessel.

[0079] A mine handling method comprising first and second storage containers and a launch container including an elevator, the containers being connected in the following order: first storage container, second storage container, and launch container, the method comprising the steps of: -Transfer the mine from the second storage container to the launch container. This can be done by operating the second storage container conveyor and the launch container lift conveyor. The launch container lift conveyor must be positioned at the same height as the conveyor supporting the mine being transported. A container handling system that performs this method is shown in Figures 4 and 5. - Raises the mines on the lifting conveyor to the height of the launch conveyor's transport conveyor. - Transfer the mine to the transfer conveyor of the launch container. This is done by activating the lifting conveyor and the transfer conveyor. - Inspecting or activating mines to prepare them for launch. - The launch ramp is used to launch the mine through the end of the launch container by activating the transfer conveyor and the ramp conveyor. - Repeat the steps above until the second layer of storage container is empty. -Transporting mines from a first storage container to a second storage container so that the empty conveyor in the second storage container is refilled with mines. - Repeat the above steps until the first storage container is completely empty. -Removing the first storage container and placing a new storage container filled with mines in place of the first storage container.

[0080] Some of these steps may be optional, e.g., an operator need not inspect the mines before launch. Using this method, mines are always available for launch because the second storage container, also known as a buffer container, always contains mines ready for transfer to the launch container. When the first storage container is emptied, a new one can be replaced with the empty one, as described above, and the method steps can be repeated. As long as there are storage containers available to connect to the buffer container and ready to transfer mines, the buffer container will store mines. This ensures that the time required to replace a storage container directly connected to the launch container does not result in downtime for mine launch.

[0081] This method may be used for additional mines, for example, when placing two mines side by side in a container.

[0082] Another mine handling method comprises the following steps: - Connect two containers from a group of containers, including a storage container and a launch container, and place the two containers end-to-end so that mines can be transferred directly from one container to the other. -transporting at least one mine from a first container to a second container; -Optionally launch a mine from the second container. The present invention may be directed to a container system including a storage container and a launch container connected together. A mine can be transported from the storage container to the launch container and launched. The container system may include more than two containers, such as three containers, for example, two storage containers and one launch container.

[0083] A minelaying system or mine-handling system including the container units is used on a ship 80. The ship 80 may be designed solely for minelaying, with one or more decks dedicated to minelaying alone, or with one or more multipurpose decks that use the container units. These multipurpose decks are also called flex decks. An example of the use of a flex deck is shown in Figure 5. A ship may have two openings in the stern of the hull through which mines can be launched. A launch container 40 is placed in each of the hull openings, and a buffer container 70 can be connected to the launch container 40. A system may be provided to move the storage containers 8 on the flex deck so that all mines can be transferred to the launch containers 40 and launched.

[0084] The launch system comprising the launch container 40 and at least one storage container 8 can be controlled fully automatically so that mines are launched at a set frequency or when decided, for example, by the captain. Therefore, no human presence is required for the mine launch process using this system, which allows the ship to launch mines from at least one storage container, and even more if the ship has an automatic container transfer system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] Below is a list of reference numbers used in the detailed description of the present disclosure and the drawings referenced in the detailed description of the present disclosure. 8 Storage Containers 10 Storage container first end frame 11 Storage container second end frame 12 Storage container upper frame 13 Storage container bottom frame 14 Motor 16 Conveyor 17 Conveyor chain 18 mines 19 Storage container side frame 20 Storage Container Frames 22 Positioning means 24 Guide means 40 Launch Container 41 Launch container first end frame 42 Elevator 43 Second end frame of launch container 44 Ramp 45 Launch container side frame 46 Transport Conveyor 47 Lower frame of launch container 48 Ramp pivoting link 50 Free-Rotating Roller Conveyor 52 Control Roller Conveyor 54 Launch container upper frame 56 Removable guide means 58 Transport conveyor guide means 62 First end frame of lifting container 64 Second end frame of lifting container 70 buffer container 72 Operator 80 ships 81 Hull 82 Flex Deck 84 End of the vessel

Claims

1. 1. A storage container for a mine handling system, the storage container being rectangular and configured to store mines, the storage container comprising a container frame including a top and bottom frame, two side frames, and two end frames, the interior volume of the container being defined by the container frame, the storage container further comprising a mine support disposed inside the container, the mine support being at least one conveyor that supports the stored mines when inactive, the conveyor extending in a direction between the two end frames so that, when the conveyor is active, the mines are supported and transported toward one of the end frames, the conveyor and the end frames being attached relative to each other so that, when two storage containers are positioned with their end frames facing each other, mines can be transported directly between the conveyors within each storage container.

2. 10. The storage container of claim 1, wherein the rectangularly shaped storage container has dimensions in accordance with ISO 668 standards.

3. 3. A storage container according to claim 1, wherein the storage container includes at least two parallel conveyors arranged in at least two layers with a difference in vertical height between the upper and lower frames of the storage container so that mines can be stored and transported in parallel in multiple layers on the conveyors within the container.

4. 4. The storage container according to claim 1, wherein the storage container includes at least two parallel conveyors arranged in at least two rows with different horizontal widths between the two side frames of the storage container so that mines can be stored and transported in multiple parallel rows on the conveyors within the container.

5. 5. A storage container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the storage container includes two parallel rows of conveyors with different horizontal widths between the two side frames of the storage container, and each row includes four parallel conveyors with different vertical heights arranged between the top and bottom frames of the storage container so that mines can be stored and transported on the conveyors within the container in two rows and four layers.

6. 6. A storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein one or more of the conveyors are fixed to the container frame.

7. 7. A storage container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the conveyor further comprises positioning means for limiting axial mine position along the length of the conveyor both when stored on the conveyor and when transported by the conveyor.

8. 8. The storage container of claim 1, further comprising guide means for restricting movement of the mines transverse to the axis along the length of the conveyor, the guide means extending from the first end frame of the container frame to the second end frame of the container.

9. 10. A storage container as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 9, wherein the guide means for restricting movement of mines on a first conveyor includes rails integral with the conveyor such that the guide means is integral with a second conveyor located above the mines on the first conveyor.

10. 11. A launch container for a mine handling system, the launch container having a rectangular shape and configured to launch mines, the launch container comprising a container frame including a top and bottom frame, two side frames, and two end frames, the interior volume of the launch container being defined by the container frame, the launch container being for receiving mines through one end frame and launching them through the opposite end frame, the launch container comprising a transfer conveyor and a launch ramp conveyor, the transfer conveyor receiving mines through one end frame and transporting them to the launch ramp conveyor, the launch ramp conveyor extending through the opposite end frame to the opposite end frame for transporting and launching the mines, the transfer conveyor and the end frames being attached relative to each other so that when the storage container and launch container according to claims 1 to 10 are positioned with their end frames facing each other, mines can be transported directly between the conveyors in the storage container and the launch container.

11. 12. A launch container as described in claim 11, wherein at least an end of the launch ramp conveyor is pivotally fixed so that the angle between the end and the remaining conveyor can be adjusted.

12. 13. A launch container as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 12, further comprising an elevator for transporting mines up and down vertically, the elevator being located at an end of the launch container opposite the launch ramp, the elevator including an elevator conveyor configured to move vertically up and down between lower top frames, the elevator conveyor receiving mines from a storage container positioned such that the end frame of the launch container faces the end frame of the storage container, and transporting the mines onto the transport conveyor for launching the mines.

13. A mine handling system comprising a storage container according to claims 1 to 10 and a launch container according to claims 11 to 12.

14. - combining at least two containers from a group of containers comprising a storage container according to claims 1 to 10 and a launch container according to claims 11 to 12 and arranging them with their end frames facing each other, so that mines can be transported directly between conveyors in said containers; - handling at least one mine, which A method for handling mines in a mine handling system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising the step of: - transferring the mines from the first container to the second container.

15. - combining a storage container according to claims 1 to 10 with a launch container according to claims 11 to 12 and arranging them with their end frames facing each other, so that mines can be transported directly between conveyors in said containers; - transferring at least one mine from said storage container to said launch container; - launching said mine from said launch container; The method of claim 14 further comprising:

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