Muzzle brake assembly

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a modular muzzle brake assembly for an artillery weapon or cannon. The modular muzzle brake assembly includes a plurality of modules configured to be removably coupled together to define a passageway for propellant gases to urge a projectile through the passageway when the artillery weapon or cannon is fired. The plurality of modules includes a plurality of baffles configured to redirect at least a portion of the propellant gases within the passageway. The present disclosure also relates to a kit of parts for the modular muzzle brake assembly.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a modular muzzle brake assembly for artillery or cannon. The invention also relates to a kit of parts for a modular muzzle brake assembly. [Background Art]

[0002] Muzzle brakes are used to reduce the effects of recoil when a barrel weapon is fired. Muzzle brakes are configured to redirect a portion of the propellant combustion gases emitted from the barrel after the projectile exits, to reduce the recoil force acting on the barrel and thus reduce the stress acting on the support structure to which the barrel is mounted. Redirecting the gas reduces the forward momentum of the gas, correspondingly reducing the rearward momentum of the barrel. The greater the volume of gas and the greater the redirecting angle, the higher the recoil efficiency of the muzzle brake.

[0003] It has been found that combustion gases discharged from the barrel and entering the muzzle brake can cause significant wear to the muzzle brake. Accordingly, muzzle brakes that are easier to repair and maintain are desirable. [Summary of the Invention]

[0004] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a modular muzzle brake assembly for artillery or cannon, the modular muzzle brake assembly comprising a plurality of modules for defining a passage through which propellant gas propels a projectile when the artillery or cannon is fired, the plurality of modules being configured to be detachably coupled together, wherein the plurality of modules include a plurality of baffles configured to redirect at least a portion of the propellant gas within the passage.

[0005] In some embodiments, the muzzle brake assembly is for medium-caliber or large-caliber artillery or cannon.

[0006] In some embodiments, the muzzle brake assembly is for artillery weapons or cannons having a caliber of at least 20 mm, preferably at least 76 mm.

[0007] As used herein, the term "cannon" includes, for example, tank guns.

[0008] In some embodiments, the muzzle brake assembly is for a cannon or artillery weapon mounted on a support structure (e.g., a platform).

[0009] In some embodiments, the modular muzzle brake comprises at least one coupling member for connecting modules together, and the modules are detachable from at least one coupling member.

[0010] In some embodiments, at least one connecting member comprises an elongated member, preferably a tie rod.

[0011] In some embodiments, one or more of the baffles include a receiving portion configured to receive a part of the coupling member.

[0012] In some embodiments, the modular muzzle brake comprises a plurality of coupling members, preferably configured such that the plurality of coupling members are arranged around the central axis of the passage.

[0013] In some embodiments, a gap is provided between at least two baffles of the assembly, allowing at least a portion of the propellant gas in the passage to pass through the gap.

[0014] In some embodiments, the modular muzzle brake assembly comprises one or more spacers configured to separate at least two baffles, and preferably, multiple modules include one or more spacers.

[0015] In some embodiments, the spacers or each spacer are tubular.

[0016] In some embodiments, the spacers or each spacer are configured to receive a portion of their respective connecting members.

[0017] In some embodiments, at least one of the baffles comprises a first baffle member and a second baffle member, preferably the first baffle member and the second baffle member being baffle plates.

[0018] In some embodiments, a space is provided between the first baffle member and the second baffle member.

[0019] In some embodiments, at least two of the baffles are replaceable within the muzzle brake assembly.

[0020] In some embodiments, at least one of the baffles is configured to redirect the propellant gas in a different manner than another of the baffles.

[0021] In some embodiments, the length of the passage can be adjusted by changing the number of modules in the modular muzzle brake assembly.

[0022] In some embodiments, the modular muzzle brake assembly further comprises a mounting portion configured to be coupled to the gun tube of an artillery weapon or cannon.

[0023] In some embodiments, the coupling member or each coupling member has one or more threaded portions. At least one threaded portion may be configured to engage with a threaded portion of a fastener (e.g., a nut). Alternatively or additionally, at least one threaded portion may be configured to engage with a threaded portion of a mounting portion.

[0024] According to the present disclosure, there is also provided a weapon system comprising the modular muzzle brake assembly described herein. The weapon system may be, for example, a tank or an artillery piece.

[0025] According to the present disclosure, there is also provided a kit of parts for a modular muzzle brake for an artillery weapon or cannon, the kit of parts comprising a plurality of modules configured to define a passage for propellant gas to urge a projectile through the passage for the projectile when the artillery weapon or cannon is fired, the plurality of modules being configured to be removably coupled together, the plurality of modules including a plurality of baffles configured to divert at least a portion of the propellant gas within the passage.

[0026] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] [Figure 1] It is a schematic side view of an artillery weapon including a modular muzzle brake assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a schematic perspective view of the modular muzzle brake assembly of Fig. 1. [Figure 3] It is a schematic perspective view of a mounting portion of the modular muzzle brake assembly of Fig. 1. [Figure 4] It is a first schematic perspective view of a first baffle member of the modular muzzle brake assembly of Fig. 1. [Figure 5] It is a second schematic perspective view of the first baffle member of the modular muzzle brake assembly of Fig. 1. [Figure 6] It is a first schematic perspective view of a second baffle member of the modular muzzle brake assembly of Fig. 1. [Figure 7] It is a second schematic perspective view of the second baffle member of the modular muzzle brake assembly of Fig. 1. [Figure 8]Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the coupling member of the modular muzzle brake assembly. [Figure 9] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the spacer in the modular muzzle brake assembly. [Figure 10] Figure 1 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the muzzle brake assembly. [Figure 11] This is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a modular muzzle brake assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] Next, referring to Figures 1 to 10, one embodiment of a modular muzzle brake assembly 10 for artillery weapons or cannons is shown. The description of the embodiment in Figures 1 to 10 below refers to artillery weapon 1, but this disclosure is also applicable to tank guns or other cannons.

[0029] The artillery weapon 1 has a barrel 3 that is pivotally mounted on a support structure 2. The muzzle brake assembly 10 is configured to be mounted on the end of the barrel 3 to redirect a portion of the propellant combustion gases released from the barrel 3 after the projectile has left the barrel 3. Thus, the muzzle brake assembly 10 reduces the recoil of the barrel 3 when the projectile is fired and reduces the stress on the support structure 2 on which the barrel 3 is mounted.

[0030] The modular muzzle brake assembly 10 comprises several modules 20, 30, and 50 configured to be detachably coupled together to define a passage 11 for propellant gases to propel a projectile (not shown) through when the artillery weapon 1 is fired. Modules 20, 30, and 50 may include baffles 30. The baffles 30 may define one or more gas redirection surfaces / regions for redirecting propellant gases to reduce recoil.

[0031] The modularity of the muzzle brake assembly 10 means that individual modules or groups of modules can be swapped out of or rearranged within the muzzle brake assembly 10. This is advantageous because the baffles 30 within the muzzle brake assembly 10 are known to wear at different rates. For example, the baffles 30 located closest to the end of the barrel 3 tend to wear the fastest because they come into contact with the largest amount of high-velocity propellant combustion gases released from the barrel 3, while the baffles 30 located further away from the end of the barrel 3 generally wear at a slower rate because a certain percentage of the propellant gases have already been redirected by the baffles 30 closer to the barrel 3 and therefore do not come into contact with the further away baffles 30. The temperature of the propellant gases also decreases as they move away from the end of the barrel 3.

[0032] Therefore, the modular muzzle brake assembly 10 makes it possible to replace and / or maintain highly worn modules while preserving low-wear modules within the muzzle brake assembly 10 that do not yet need replacement and / or maintenance. This is advantageous because it is easier to store and transport replacement modules than the entire muzzle brake assembly. Furthermore, repairing the modular muzzle brake assembly 10 by replacing worn modules is less expensive and more environmentally friendly than replacing the entire muzzle brake assembly 10. In addition, the order of the modules within the muzzle brake assembly 10 can be changed to achieve more uniform wear of the modules.

[0033] Optionally, the modularity of the muzzle brake assembly 10 allows for adjustment or modification of its performance. This is advantageous because it means that the efficiency of the muzzle brake assembly 10 can be adjusted based on one or more of the following: the type of projectile being fired, environmental conditions, and / or whether the artillery weapon 1 is being used under training conditions or in combat.

[0034] As detailed below, one or more of the baffles 30 can be replaced with baffles 30 configured to redirect propellant gases more efficiently or less efficiently. Alternatively or additionally, the efficiency of the modular muzzle brake assembly 10 can be adjusted by adjusting one or more of the following: the number of baffles 30 in the assembly 10, the spacing between adjacent baffles 30, the orientation of one or more of the baffles 30, and / or the order of the baffles 30 in the muzzle brake assembly 10.

[0035] The muzzle brake assembly 10 includes a mounting portion 20 configured to be attached to the end of the barrel 3 of the artillery weapon 1. In this example, multiple modules include the mounting portion 20. The mounting portion 20 may be a mounting member 20.

[0036] The mounting portion 20 may be configured to be removably attached to the barrel 3, for example, by screwing or bolting it to the barrel 3. In another embodiment (not shown), the mounting portion 20 is permanently fixed to the barrel 3, for example, by welding it to the barrel 3 or forming it integrally with the barrel 3. In some embodiments, the mounting portion 20 is provided with threads that engage with the threads of the gun barrel 3.

[0037] In this example, the mounting portion 20 forms part of the passage 11, and the propellant gas released from the gun barrel 3 passes through the mounting portion 20 and comes into contact with the interior of the mounting portion 20. However, in other embodiments (not shown), the mounting portion 20 can be received on the outer circumferential surface of the gun barrel 3. Therefore, the propellant gas does not need to substantially come into contact with the interior of the mounting portion 20.

[0038] Multiple modules include multiple baffles 30 configured to redirect at least a portion of the propellant gas in the passage 11.

[0039] A gap 31 is provided between at least two baffles 30 of the assembly 10. The gap 31 forms a channel 31 that allows at least a portion of the propellant gas in the passage 11 to pass through the gap 31 and be redirected to reduce the rearward momentum of the barrel 3 when the projectile is fired. However, it should be noted that in other embodiments (not shown), the baffles 30 may have channels within the baffles 30 themselves. For example, the channels may extend radially through the walls of the baffles 30 from the passage 11 to the outside of the baffles 30, providing a path for a portion of the propellant gas to follow so that the gas is redirected to reduce the rearward momentum of the barrel 3 when the projectile is fired. In such an embodiment, there is no gap between adjacent baffles 30. Adjacent baffles 30 may be in contact with each other.

[0040] In this example, the modules of the modular muzzle brake assembly 10 include a plurality of spacers 50. Each spacer 50 is configured to separate adjacent baffles 30 of the assembly 10, forming a gap 31 between adjacent baffles 30. However, it should be noted that in other embodiments (not shown), a gap may be provided between adjacent baffles 30 without the use of spacers, for example, the baffles 30 may be molded to form the gap instead.

[0041] In some embodiments, at least one of the baffles 30 comprises a first baffle member 32 and a second baffle member 33. In this example, the first baffle member 32 and the second baffle member 33 are a first baffle plate 32 and a second baffle plate 33. The first baffle member 32 and the second baffle member 33 may be substantially annular.

[0042] In this example, each baffle 30 includes a central channel 30B that forms part of the passage 11. Therefore, when the baffles 30 are assembled within the modular muzzle brake assembly 10, the channel 30B is positioned to form at least part of the length of the passage 11.

[0043] In this example, each baffle 30 has a substantially frustoconical shape. However, it should be noted that a wide variety of shapes are possible for each baffle 30, and the shape of the baffle 30 or each baffle 30 may be selected to achieve specific flow conditions (e.g., pressure, velocity, or flow direction) of the propellant gas that is redirected by the baffle 30. The baffles 30 may all have the same shape, or different baffles 30 in the assembly 10 may have different shapes.

[0044] In other embodiments (not shown), each baffle 30 is formed from a single component.

[0045] The first baffle member 32 and the second baffle member 33 are configured to be joined together to form their respective baffles 30. The baffles 30 or each baffle 30 may have a hollow structure to allow for weight reduction compared to a solid baffle 30. In this example, when the first baffle member 32 and the second baffle member 33 are joined together, a space 34 is provided between the first baffle member 32 and the second baffle member 33. One or both of the first baffle member 32 and the second baffle member 33 have one or more recesses or grooves 32B, 33B that form at least a portion of the space 34 of the baffle 30. In this example, the first baffle member 32 has a plurality of grooves 32B, and the second baffle member 33 has a plurality of grooves 33B. The grooves 32B, 33B of adjacent first baffle member 32 and second baffle member 33 together form the space 34 of the baffle 30. By manufacturing the baffle 30 from the first member 32 and the second member 33, it becomes easier to create a space 34 within each baffle 30.

[0046] The first baffle member 32 is provided with a first flow control surface 35, and the second baffle member 33 is provided with a second flow control surface 36. The propellant gas flowing out of the passage 11 through the gap 31 between the baffles 30 collides with the flow control surfaces 35, 36 and is directed to suppress the recoil of the barrel 3. For example, to counteract the recoil motion of the barrel 3 when a projectile is fired, at least a portion of the propellant gas can be redirected away from the fired projectile.

[0047] In some embodiments, the first flow control surface 35 and the second flow control surface 36 converge toward a point (for example, away from the passage 11) so as to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the gap 31, thereby reducing the velocity of the propellant gas entering the gap 31 from the passage 11 and increasing its temperature. The first flow control surface 35 and the second flow control surface 36 may then spread out (for example, away from the passage 11) so as to increase the cross-sectional area of ​​the gap 31, thereby increasing the velocity of the propellant gas as it exits the gap 31. This increase in the velocity of the propellant gas as it exits the gap 31 increases the rearward momentum of the propellant gas, and therefore increases the braking force of the muzzle brake assembly 10, thereby reducing recoil.

[0048] The muzzle brake assembly 10 further comprises at least one coupling member 40 for joining modules together. In some embodiments, at least one or more of the modules are detachable from at least one coupling member 40.

[0049] In this example, each connecting member 40 comprises an elongated member 40 extending in a direction substantially parallel to the central axis AA of the passage 11 of the muzzle brake assembly 10.

[0050] Each spacer 50 may comprise a tubular spacer 50 configured to receive a portion of the connecting member 40. The spacer 50 may be configured to separate a first baffle member 32 (for example, of the first baffle of the baffle 30) from a second baffle member 33 (for example, of the second baffle of the baffle 30) to form a gap 31 between them.

[0051] All modules can be coupled to a common coupling member 40. However, in other embodiments (not shown), the coupling member 40 or each coupling member 40 may have an alternative form, for example, one or more bolts or other fasteners configured to couple adjacent modules together. In one embodiment (not shown), each module has a thread or plug-in connector configured to couple to the thread or plug-in connector of an adjacent module. However, it has been found that providing a common coupling member to couple multiple modules together makes the assembly of the muzzle brake assembly faster.

[0052] In this example, the elongated member 40, or each elongated member 40, is in the form of a tie rod 40.

[0053] The baffle 30, or each baffle 30, is provided with a receiving portion 30A configured to receive its respective coupling member 40. In this example, each first baffle member 32 is provided with one or more receiving portions 32A, and each second baffle member 33 is provided with one or more receiving portions 33A. The receiving portion 32A of the first baffle member 32, or each receiving portion 32A, is aligned with the respective receiving portion 33A of the adjacent second baffle member 33, so that the aligned receiving portions 32A, 33A together form the receiving portion 30A of the baffle 30.

[0054] In this example, each receiving member 32A, 33A is an opening that penetrates the respective baffle members 32, 33. In some embodiments (not shown), one or more of the receiving members 32A, 33A may be slots in the respective baffle members 32, 33. In some embodiments (not shown), one or more of the receiving members 32A, 33A may be notches extending into the radially inward or outward edge or surface of the respective baffle members 32, 33.

[0055] In this example, the muzzle brake assembly 10 comprises three coupling members 40. However, it should be noted that in other embodiments (not shown), the muzzle brake assembly may comprise a different number of coupling members, for example, one, two, four, or six. In embodiments comprising a single coupling member, the coupling member may have a non-circular cross-section to prevent rotation of the baffle relative to the coupling member.

[0056] In this example, each baffle 30 has three receiving portions 30A, each configured to receive a portion of its respective coupling member 40. That is, each first baffle member 32 has three receiving portions 32A, and each second baffle member 33 has three receiving portions 33A, each aligned with the respective receiving portions 32A of the adjacent first baffle member 32.

[0057] Each coupling member 40 has a first end 41 and a second end 42. The first end 41 of the coupling member 40 is configured to be attached to the mounting portion 20. In this example, the first end 41 of each coupling member 40 has threads (not shown) configured to be connected to the threaded receiving portion 20A of the mounting portion 20. However, it should be noted that in other embodiments (not shown), the coupling member 40 may be permanently attached to the mounting portion 20, for example, by welding or by being integrally formed with the mounting portion 20, or may be detachably attached to the mounting portion 20 by a plug-in connector or other detachable mechanism.

[0058] Each connecting member 40 is equipped with a fastener 43. In this example, each fastener 43 is provided at the second end 42 of the connecting member 40.

[0059] Each fastener 43 is configured to hold the module on its respective coupling member 40. That is, the fasteners 43 are larger than the receiving portions 32A and 33A of the baffle members 32 and 33 so as to prevent the baffle members 32 and 33 from passing over the fasteners 43 of the coupling member 40.

[0060] In this example, each fastener 43 is a flanged end of the connecting member 40. However, in other embodiments (not shown), the fasteners 43 or each fastener 43 may have a different configuration, for example, comprising a bolt that engages with a thread at the second end 42 of each connecting member 40.

[0061] In another embodiment (not shown), each coupling member 40 is attached to a common fastener, which may be annular. The coupling members 40 may be detachably attached to the common fastener. Alternatively, the coupling members 40 may be permanently attached to the common fastener, in which case the coupling members 40 may be detachably coupled to the mounting portion 20 to allow the module to be separated from the coupling members 40.

[0062] The modular muzzle brake assembly 10 may be supplied pre-assembled or as a parts kit configured to be assembled to form the modular muzzle brake assembly 10. The parts kit may optionally include additional modules (e.g., baffles 30 and / or spacers 50) that can be replaced when modules of the assembly wear out. The parts kit may optionally include different types of baffles 30 that allow for adjustment of muzzle brake efficiency, as detailed below.

[0063] Next, an example of how to assemble the muzzle brake assembly 10 will be described below. In this particular example, the second baffle member 33 is slid over the three coupling members 40 until the second baffle member 33 contacts each of the fasteners 43 of the coupling members 40. Next, the spacers 50 are slid over each coupling member 40, and then the first baffle member 32 and the additional second baffle member 33 are slid over the coupling members 40 (in this order) until each spacer 50 contacts the second baffle member 33 already coupled to the coupling member 40, the first baffle member 32 contacts the spacer 50, and the additional second baffle member 33 contacts the first baffle member 32, so that the first baffle member 32 and the additional second baffle member 33 together form the baffle 30. Next, the process of sliding the spacers 50, the first baffle member 32, and the second baffle member 33 on the coupling member 40 (in this order) is repeated (four more times in this example). Then, three more spacers 50, then the first baffle member 32, are slid on the coupling member 40, and then the first end 41 of each coupling member 40 is attached to the mounting portion 20, so that the module (e.g., baffle 30 and spacers 50) is held between the mounting portion 20 and the fasteners 43. In some embodiments, each fastener 43 is configured to be engaged by a socket or wrench and may have, for example, a hexagonal shape.

[0064] In an alternative embodiment, the coupling member 40 is first attached to the mounting portion 20, the module is then slid on the coupling member 40, and then the fastener 43 is attached to the coupling member 40 to hold the module in place on the coupling member 40.

[0065] As described above, the modularity of the muzzle brake assembly 10 means that individual modules or groups of modules can be replaced from the muzzle brake assembly 10. This is advantageous because it is easier to store and transport replacement modules than the entire muzzle brake assembly. Furthermore, repairing the muzzle brake assembly 10 by replacing worn modules is less expensive and more environmentally friendly than replacing the entire muzzle brake assembly 10. The order of the modules within the muzzle brake assembly 10 can be changed to achieve more uniform wear of the modules. For example, modules in high-wear positions (e.g., closer to the gun barrel 3) can be swapped with modules in low-wear positions (e.g., further away from the gun barrel 3).

[0066] Optionally, the modularity of the muzzle brake assembly 10 allows for adjustment or adjustment of its performance. In one such embodiment, the efficiency of the muzzle brake assembly 10 can be adjusted. For example, one or more of the baffles 30 can be replaced with baffles configured to more efficiently redirect propellant gases, for example, by redirecting a larger volume of propellant gases and / or redirecting them at a larger redirection angle, in order to increase the recoil efficiency of the muzzle brake assembly 10. This means that the efficiency of the muzzle brake assembly 10 can be adjusted based on one or more of the following: the type of projectile being fired, environmental conditions, and / or whether the artillery weapon 1 is being used under training conditions or in combat.

[0067] In another embodiment, the efficiency of the modular muzzle brake assembly 10 can be adjusted by adjusting the number of baffles 30 within the muzzle brake assembly 10. Increasing the number of baffles 30 increases the efficiency of the muzzle brake assembly 10, while decreasing the number of baffles 30 reduces efficiency but makes the muzzle brake assembly 10 lighter. Thus, the length of the muzzle brake assembly 10 can be adjusted.

[0068] In another embodiment, the efficiency of the modular muzzle brake assembly 10 can be adjusted by adjusting the spacing between adjacent baffles 30 within the muzzle brake assembly 10, for example, by adjusting the length and / or number of spacers 50 between adjacent baffles 30. In yet another embodiment, the efficiency of the modular brake assembly 10 can be adjusted by adjusting the orientation of one or more of the baffles 30. For example, the efficiency of a baffle 30 can be controlled by adjusting whether the baffle 30 faces a first direction (e.g., the first end of the baffle 30 faces toward the gun barrel 3) or a second direction (e.g., the first end of the baffle 30 faces toward the gun barrel 3).

[0069] In another embodiment, the efficiency of the modular muzzle brake assembly 10 can be adjusted by adjusting the order of the baffles 30 within the muzzle brake assembly 10. For example, one or more of the baffles 30 may be configured to redirect propellant gases more efficiently than at least one of the other baffles 30, e.g., redirecting a larger volume of propellant gases and / or redirecting the gases at a larger redirection angle. More efficient baffles 30 may be placed in the assembly 10 so that they are closer to the barrel 3, thereby increasing the recoil efficiency of the muzzle brake assembly 10. Conversely, less efficient baffles 30 may be placed in the assembly 10 so that they are closer to the barrel 3 and more efficient baffles 30 are further away from the barrel 3, thereby decreasing the recoil efficiency of the muzzle brake assembly 10.

[0070] Referring to Figure 11, another embodiment of the modular muzzle brake assembly 1000 for artillery weapons or cannons is shown. The assembly 1000 is configured to be mounted on the end of a gun barrel (not shown). The modular muzzle brake assembly 1000 of Figure 11 is assembled in the same way as the modular muzzle brake assembly 10 of Figures 1 to 10, so a detailed description will not be repeated below, and similar features will retain the same reference numerals.

[0071] The modular muzzle brake assembly 1000 comprises a plurality of modules 1030 configured to be detachably coupled together so as to define a passage 1011 for propellant gases to propel the projectile through when an artillery weapon or cannon is fired. The plurality of modules include a plurality of baffles 1030 configured to redirect at least a portion of the propellant gases in the passage 1011.

[0072] Each baffle 1030 comprises a first baffle member 1032 and a second baffle member 1033. The first baffle member 1032 and the second baffle member 1033 are configured to form a chamber 1034 between them for receiving propellant gases. The chambers 1034 of the baffle 1030 together form at least partially a passage 1011 for the projectile. In some embodiments, propellant gases exiting from a gun barrel (not shown) can expand within the chamber 1034.

[0073] Each baffle 1030 further includes a channel 1031 configured to redirect a portion of the propellant gas in the chamber 1034 out of the chamber 1034 in order to reduce the rearward momentum of the gun barrel (not shown) and thus reduce recoil. In this example, the channel 1031 is formed between the first baffle member 1032 and the second baffle member 1033, respectively.

[0074] In some embodiments, the first baffle member 1032 and the second baffle member 1033 have substantially hemispherical portions that abut together to form a substantially spherical region defining the chamber 1034.

[0075] In this example, adjacent baffles 1030 of assembly 1000 are held in contact with each other so that no gap is created between them.

[0076] The second baffle member 1033 of the baffle 1030 closest to the mounting portion 20 is held in contact with the mounting portion 20, and the first baffle member 1032 of the same baffle 1030 is held in contact with the second baffle member 1033 along the line X1-X1 in Figure 11. The first baffle member 1032 is held in contact with the second baffle member 1033 of the adjacent baffle 1030 along the line X2-X2 in Figure 11. The second baffle member 1033 of the adjacent baffle 1030 is held in contact with the first baffle member 1032 of the same baffle 1030 along the line X3-X3 in Figure 11.

[0077] The muzzle brake assembly 1000 further comprises at least one coupling member 40 for joining modules together. In some embodiments, at least some of the modules are removable from at least one coupling member 40. In this example, each coupling member 40 comprises an elongated member 40 (e.g., a tie rod) extending in a direction substantially parallel to the central axis AA of the passage 1011 of the muzzle brake assembly 1000. A fastener 43 is provided at the end of each coupling member 40 so that a module (e.g., a baffle 1030) is removablely held between the fastener 43 and a mounting portion 20 attached to the gun barrel.

[0078] In this example, baffle 1030 and / or baffle members 1032 and 1033 can be swapped to change the order of baffle 1030 and / or baffle members 1032 and 1033. For example, the first baffle member 1032 can be swapped with the second baffle member 1033 of the same baffle 1030 or an adjacent baffle 1030, thereby changing the efficiency of the muzzle brake assembly 1000. Individual baffle members 1032 and 1033 and / or the entire baffle 1030 can be swapped with replacement baffle members 1032 and 1033 and / or the entire replacement baffle 1030.

[0079] In some embodiments, the modular muzzle brake assemblies 10, 1000 are for artillery weapons or cannons having a caliber of at least 20 mm, preferably at least 76 mm.

[0080] In some embodiments (not shown), the muzzle brake assemblies 10, 1000 include a towing pintle (not shown) configured to be coupled to a vehicle to facilitate the towing of an artillery weapon or cannon. In some embodiments (not shown), the towing pintle extends from the baffle and / or baffle member furthest from the barrel. In other embodiments, the towing pintle extends from the mounting portion of the muzzle brake assembly.

[0081] All of the features disclosed herein (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings) and / or all of the steps of any method or process so so disclosed may be combined in any combination, except for any combination in which at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0082] Each feature disclosed herein (including any attached claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by an alternative feature serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose unless otherwise specified. Accordingly, unless otherwise specified, each disclosed feature is merely one example of a comprehensive set of equivalent or similar features.

[0083] The present invention is not limited to the details of the embodiments described above. The present invention extends to any novel one or any novel combination of features disclosed herein (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings), or any novel one or any novel combination of steps of any method or process so so disclosed. The following is a direct reproduction of the claims as originally filed. [1] A modular muzzle brake assembly for an artillery weapon or cannon, comprising a plurality of modules configured to be detachably coupled together, for defining a passage to which propellant gases will propel a projectile through when the artillery weapon or cannon is fired, the plurality of modules comprising a plurality of baffles configured to redirect at least a portion of the propellant gases in the passage. [2] The modular muzzle brake assembly according to [1], further comprising at least one coupling member for connecting the plurality of modules together, wherein the plurality of modules are detachable from the at least one coupling member. [3] The modular muzzle brake assembly according to [2], wherein the at least one coupling member comprises an elongated member, preferably a tie rod. [4] The modular muzzle brake assembly according to [2] or [3], wherein one or more of the baffles comprises a receiving portion configured to receive a part of the coupling member. [5] A modular muzzle brake assembly according to any one of [2] to [4], comprising a plurality of coupling members, preferably the plurality of coupling members being arranged around the central axis of the passage. [6] A modular muzzle brake assembly according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein a gap is provided between at least two baffles of the modular muzzle brake assembly, allowing at least a portion of the propellant gas in the passage to pass through the gap. [7] A modular muzzle brake assembly according to [6], comprising one or more spacers configured to separate the at least two baffles, preferably the plurality of modules comprising the one or more spacers. [8] A modular muzzle brake assembly according to any one of the plurality of baffles, comprising a first baffle member and a second baffle member, preferably the first baffle member and the second baffle member being baffle plates. [9] The modular muzzle brake assembly according to [8], wherein a space is provided between the first baffle member and the second baffle member.

[10] A modular muzzle brake assembly according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein at least two of the plurality of baffles are replaceable within the modular muzzle brake assembly.

[11] A modular muzzle brake assembly according to any one of the baffles, wherein at least one of the baffles is configured to redirect the propellant gas in a manner different from that of another baffle.

[12] The length of the passage is adjustable by changing the number of modules of the modular muzzle brake assembly as described in any one of [1] to

[11] .

[13] A modular muzzle brake assembly according to any one of [1] to

[12] , comprising a mounting portion configured to be coupled to the barrel of the artillery weapon or cannon.

[14] A weapon system comprising a modular muzzle brake assembly as described in any one of the items [1] to

[13] .

[15] A component kit for a modular muzzle brake assembly for an artillery weapon or cannon, comprising a plurality of modules configured to be detachably coupled together, for defining a passage to which propellant gases will propel a projectile through when the artillery weapon or cannon is fired, the plurality of modules comprising a plurality of baffles configured to redirect at least a portion of the propellant gases in the passage.

Claims

1. A modular muzzle brake assembly for artillery weapons or cannons, comprising a plurality of modules configured to be detachably coupled together, for defining a passage for propellant gases to propel a projectile through when the artillery weapon or cannon is fired, wherein the plurality of modules include a plurality of baffles configured to redirect at least a portion of the propellant gases in the passage. A gap is provided between at least two baffles of the modular muzzle brake assembly, allowing at least a portion of the propellant gas in the passage to pass through the gap. At least one of the plurality of baffles comprises a first baffle member and a second baffle member, the first baffle member having a first flow control surface and the second baffle member having a second flow control surface, and the propellant gas flowing out from the passage through the gap between the baffles collides with the first flow control surface and the second flow control surface. Modular muzzle brake assembly.

2. The modular muzzle brake assembly according to claim 1, further comprising at least one coupling member for connecting the plurality of modules together, wherein the plurality of modules are detachable from the at least one coupling member.

3. The modular muzzle brake assembly according to claim 2, wherein the at least one connecting member comprises an elongated member.

4. The modular muzzle brake assembly according to claim 2 or 3, wherein one or more of the plurality of baffles comprises a receiving portion configured to receive a part of the coupling member.

5. A modular muzzle brake assembly according to claim 2 or 3, comprising a plurality of connecting members, wherein the plurality of connecting members are configured to be arranged around the central axis of the passage.

6. A modular muzzle brake assembly according to claim 1, comprising one or more spacers configured to separate at least two baffles, wherein the plurality of modules include the one or more spacers.

7. The modular muzzle brake assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one of the plurality of baffles comprises a first baffle member and a second baffle member, and the first baffle member and the second baffle member are baffle plates.

8. The modular muzzle brake assembly according to claim 7, wherein a space is provided between the first baffle member and the second baffle member.

9. A modular muzzle brake assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least two of the plurality of baffles are replaceable within the modular muzzle brake assembly.

10. The modular muzzle brake assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one of the plurality of baffles is configured to redirect the propellant gas in a manner different from that of another of the plurality of baffles.

11. The modular muzzle brake assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the length of the passage is adjustable by changing the number of modules of the modular muzzle brake assembly.

12. A modular muzzle brake assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a mounting portion configured to be coupled to the barrel of the aforementioned artillery weapon or cannon.

13. A weapon system comprising a modular muzzle brake assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

14. A component kit for a modular muzzle brake assembly for an artillery weapon or cannon, comprising a plurality of modules configured to be detachably coupled together, for defining a passage for propellant gases to propel a projectile through when the artillery weapon or cannon is fired, wherein the plurality of modules include a plurality of baffles configured to redirect at least a portion of the propellant gases in the passage. A gap is provided between at least two baffles of the modular muzzle brake assembly, allowing at least a portion of the propellant gas in the passage to pass through the gap. At least one of the plurality of baffles comprises a first baffle member and a second baffle member, the first baffle member having a first flow control surface and the second baffle member having a second flow control surface, and the propellant gas flowing out from the passage through the gap between the baffles collides with the first flow control surface and the second flow control surface. Parts kit.

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