Patents by Inventor Heiner Schmees

Heiner Schmees has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 11371790
    Abstract: A method for producing a weapon housing and to a weapon housing. Said method is characterized in that the weapon housing includes at least two sub-assemblies, an inner contour being cut into at least one solid block for each sub-assembly. The solid block is a steel block. Openings and recesses are introduced into the at least two sub-assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Blache, Heiner Schmees
  • Patent number: 10948254
    Abstract: The installation space dimensions of a weapon system in the tower are complied with, and a loading space diameter of a caliber-larger weapon barrel is approximately maintained in relation to the smaller caliber. The required larger loading space volume for the caliber increase is predominantly achieved by an extension of the loading space of the caliber-larger weapon barrel relative to a loading space of the caliber-smaller weapon barrel itself. Since the loading space diameter of a larger caliber remains virtually unchanged, the outer dimensions of the caliber-larger weapon barrel also remain virtually unchanged compared to the outer dimensions of the caliber-smaller weapon barrel in the region of the loading part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Berthold Baumann, Andreas Blache, Stefan Radczinsky, Heiner Schmees, Florian Schwieger
  • Publication number: 20210041196
    Abstract: A method for producing a weapon housing and to a weapon housing. Said method is characterized in that the weapon housing includes at least two sub-assemblies, an inner contour being cut into at least one solid block for each sub-assembly. The solid block is a steel block. Openings and recesses are introduced into the at least two sub-assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2020
    Publication date: February 11, 2021
    Applicant: RHEINMETALL WAFFE MUNITION GMBH
    Inventors: Andreas BLACHE, Heiner Schmees
  • Patent number: 10788282
    Abstract: The installation space dimensions of a weapon system in the tower are complied with, and a loading space diameter of a caliber-larger weapon barrel is approximately maintained in relation to the smaller caliber. The required larger loading space volume for the caliber increase is predominantly achieved by an extension of the loading space of the caliber-larger weapon barrel relative to a loading space of the caliber-smaller weapon barrel itself. Since the loading space diameter of a larger caliber remains virtually unchanged, the outer dimensions of the caliber-larger weapon barrel also remain virtually unchanged compared to the outer dimensions of the caliber-smaller weapon barrel in the region of the loading part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignee: RHEINMETALL WAFFE MUNITION GMBH
    Inventors: Berthold Baumann, Andreas Blache, Stefan Radczinsky, Heiner Schmees, Florian Schwieger
  • Publication number: 20190120585
    Abstract: The installation space dimensions of a weapon system in the tower are complied with, and a loading space diameter of a caliber-larger weapon barrel is approximately maintained in relation to the smaller caliber. The required larger loading space volume for the caliber increase is predominantly achieved by an extension of the loading space of the caliber-larger weapon barrel relative to a loading space of the caliber-smaller weapon barrel itself. Since the loading space diameter of a larger caliber remains virtually unchanged, the outer dimensions of the caliber-larger weapon barrel also remain virtually unchanged compared to the outer dimensions of the caliber-smaller weapon barrel in the region of the loading part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2018
    Publication date: April 25, 2019
    Applicant: RHEINMETALL WAFFE MUNITION GMBH
    Inventors: Berthold BAUMANN, Andreas BLACHE, Stefan RADCZINSKY, Heiner SCHMEES, Florian SCHWIEGER
  • Patent number: 8616112
    Abstract: A drive for a weapon is provided, wherein rotational motion of a motor is converted to a forward or reverse motion of the breech in a simple manner using the Scotch yoke principle. In order to allow rest periods of the breech in the end positions, the crank radius is defined by a control cam, which changes when the crank is rotated. The hinge pin of the crank may be externally driven via a pinion shaft. A yoke pin is arranged in a groove of the crank so as to be radially displaceable and carries the breech carrier or the breech in a groove extending transversely to the direction of fire via a sliding block. Two rollers are arranged on the crank pin and run in control cams in the weapon or crank housing. The control cam is subdivided into different sectors/sections, thereby achieving the desired motion of the breech.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Ralf-Joachim Herrmann, Heiner Schmees, Berthold Baumann
  • Patent number: 8479633
    Abstract: A mechanism or drive (100) for a weapon is described, which is characterized by only a limited acceleration of the breech (20) and a jerk- and recoil-free operation, thereby reducing the inertia force and the required power and increasing the repetition rate. The reduction of the required power also results in a reduction of braking power in the case of a quick stop. For this purpose, the rotational motion of preferably a motor (50) or the like is converted to a forward or reverse motion of the breech (20) using the Scotch yoke principle. In order to allow rest periods of the breech in the end limit positions, the rod (3) and the yoke (1) are arranged radially and displaceable relative to each other so that the yoke radius changes when the yoke (1) is rotated. A control cam (6) radially guides the rod (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Ralf-Joachim Herrmann, Klaus Lawitzke, Heiner Schmees, Berthold Baumann
  • Patent number: 8459166
    Abstract: A seal is proposed between the drum (2) having a plurality of cartridge chambers (3) and a weapon barrel (1) of a drum cannon, wherein the seal comprises at least one elastically pretensioned obturation ring (4). Each cartridge chamber (3) has an obturation ring (4) for drum-side integration, while one obturation ring (4) suffices for barrel-side integration. The obturation is integrated between the two and is pressed against the face (9) of the weapon barrel (1) or the face of the cartridge chamber (3) that is aligned with the bore axis of the weapon barrel (1) such that immediate sealing occurs even at low gas pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Ralf Joachim Herrmann, Hans Hülsewis, Heiner Schmees
  • Patent number: 8413565
    Abstract: A drive, having a quick stop mechanism, for a breech is axially adjustable relative to a weapon barrel, and includes a motor, two counter-rotating chains and sprocket wheels that guide the chains. Engaging cams and control cams are integrated into the chains. A slide mounted at the bottom of the breech is displaceable transversely to the direction of fire and has a groove that the engaging cams engage to entrain the breech in a forward or reverse motion relative to the direction of fire. The engaging cam transporting the breech forwards is displaced from the groove while the control cam displaces the slide simultaneously to its center position via its ascent ramp, thereby allowing breech rest periods in the forward limit position. Firing causes the slide to move from the center position to the left hand side whereas it remains in the center position when no shot is fired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Ralf-Joachim Herrmann, Klaus Lawitzke, Heiner Schmees, Berthold Baumann
  • Patent number: 8402874
    Abstract: A drive for a breech/breech carrier renders it axially adjustable relative to a weapon barrel. The drive includes a motor, two engaging cams mounted on a chain arranged below the breech and guided around two sprocket wheels. A slide is mounted in a guide at the bottom of the breech/breech carrier so as to move at a right angle to the direction of fire, with a groove extending over its entire width. The respective engaging cam entrains the breech in forward motion relative to the direction of fire, or in reverse motion, once the shot is fired, and transports the breech forwards, is displaced from the groove, and moves backwards without the breech, thereby allowing breech rest periods in a forward position. During firing, the slide moves, whereas it remains stationary when no shot is fired so no further engaging cam can entrain the breech backwards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Ralf-Joachim Herrmann, Klaus Lawitzke, Heiner Schmees, Berthold Baumann
  • Patent number: 8397616
    Abstract: A tube weapon comprises a weapon tube arranged in an exchangeable fashion using screw thread at a breech block of the tube weapon, and a cradle tube in which the weapon tube is axially and displaceably positioned. Despite using screw thread for connecting the weapon tube with the breech end, prevention of axial, and preferably also radial play, are assured, whereby the weapon tube is removable via a cradle tube in front of the breech block. The weapon tube is pre-loaded in the stress direction, which occurs with firing stress, by a screw thread ring arranged in front at the breech block. The screw thread ring encircles the weapon tube and is preferably partially screwed in detachable fashion into the anterior end of the breech block, and efficiently supports itself, axially, with its anterior end located against a collar of the weapon tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Rheinmentall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Heiner Schmees, Ralf-Joachim Herrmann
  • Patent number: 8215221
    Abstract: A gun barrel with a gun barrel liner and a breech ring, which are joined with each other by a bayonet thread. A continuous cavity is left between adjacent bayonet ridges of the gun barrel liner and the bayonet ridges of the breech ring that are located axially behind them or in front of them. A locking segment is inserted in at least one of the cavities that is formed in the installed gun barrel liner between adjacent bayonet ridges of the gun barrel liner and the bayonet ridges of the breech ring to prevent unintentional detachment of the gun barrel liner from the breech ring. The locking segment can completely fill the corresponding cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH
    Inventors: Klaus Lawitzke, Ralf-Joachim Herrmann, Bernhard Scheideler, Heiner Schmees
  • Publication number: 20120132061
    Abstract: A mechanism or drive (100) for a weapon is described, which is characterized by only a limited acceleration of the breech (20) and a jerk- and recoil-free operation, thereby reducing the inertia force and the required power and increasing the repetition rate. The reduction of the required power also results in a reduction of braking power in the case of a quick stop. For this purpose, the rotational motion of preferably a motor (50) or the like is converted to a forward or reverse motion of the breech (20) using the Scotch yoke principle. In order to allow rest periods of the breech in the end limit positions, the rod (3) and the yoke (1) are arranged radially and displaceable relative to each other so that the yoke radius changes when the yoke (1) is rotated. A control cam (6) radially guides the rod (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Applicant: RHEINMETALL WAFFE MUNITION GMBH
    Inventors: Ralf-Joachim HERRMANN, Klaus LAWITZKE, Heiner SCHMEES, Berthold BAUMANN
  • Publication number: 20120132062
    Abstract: A drive for a weapon is provided, wherein rotational motion of a motor is converted to a forward or reverse motion of the breech in a simple manner using the Scotch yoke principle. In order to allow rest periods of the breech in the end positions, the crank radius is defined by a control cam, which changes when the crank is rotated. The hinge pin of the crank may be externally driven via a pinion shaft. A yoke pin is arranged in a groove of the crank so as to be radially displaceable and carries the breech carrier or the breech in a groove extending transversely to the direction of fire via a sliding block. Two rollers are arranged on the crank pin and run in control cams in the weapon or crank housing. The control cam is subdivided into different sectors/sections, thereby achieving the desired motion of the breech.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Applicant: RHEINMETALL WAFFE MUNITION GMBH
    Inventors: Ralf Joachim HERRMANN, Heiner SCHMEES, Berthold BAUMANN
  • Publication number: 20110314996
    Abstract: A drive, having a quick stop mechanism, for a breech is axially adjustable relative to a weapon barrel, and includes a motor, two counter-rotating chains and sprocket wheels that guide the chains. Engaging cams and control cams are integrated into the chains. A slide mounted at the bottom of the breech is displaceable transversely to the direction of fire and has a groove that the engaging cams engage to entrain the breech in a forward or reverse motion relative to the direction of fire. The engaging cam transporting the breech forwards is displaced from the groove while the control cam displaces the slide simultaneously to its center position via its ascent ramp, thereby allowing breech rest periods in the forward limit position. Firing causes the slide to move from the center position to the left hand side whereas it remains in the center position when no shot is fired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: RHEINMETALL WAFFE MUNITION GMBH
    Inventors: Ralf Joachim HERRMANN, Klaus LAWITZKE, Heiner SCHMEES, Berthold BAUMANN
  • Publication number: 20110290103
    Abstract: A drive for a breech/breech carrier renders it axially adjustable relative to a weapon barrel. The drive includes a motor, two engaging cams mounted on a chain arranged below the breech and guided around two sprocket wheels. A slide is mounted in a guide at the bottom of the breech/breech carrier so as to move at a right angle to the direction of fire, with a groove extending over its entire width. The respective engaging cam entrains the breech in forward motion relative to the direction of fire, or in reverse motion, once the shot is fired, and transports the breech forwards, is displaced from the groove, and moves backwards without the breech, thereby allowing breech rest periods in a forward position. During firing, the slide moves, whereas it remains stationary when no shot is fired so no further engaging cam can entrain the breech backwards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: RHEINMETALL WAFFE MUNITION GMBH
    Inventors: Ralf Joachim HERRMANN, Klaus LAWITZKE, Heiner SCHMEES, Berthold BAUMANN
  • Publication number: 20110005376
    Abstract: A tube weapon comprises a weapon tube arranged in an exchangeable fashion using screw thread at a breech block of the tube weapon, and a cradle tube in which the weapon tube is axially and displaceably positioned. Despite using screw thread for connecting the weapon tube with the breech block, prevention of axial, and preferably also radial play, are assured, whereby the weapon tube is removable via a cradle tube in the front. The weapon tube is pre-loaded in the stress direction, which occurs with firing stress by a screw thread ring arranged in front at the breech block. The screw thread ring encircles the weapon tube and is preferably partially screwed in detachable fashion into the anterior end of the breech block facing the weapon tube muzzle, and efficiently supports itself, axially, with its anterior end located before the breech block against a collar of the weapon tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2010
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: RHEINMETALL WAFFE MUNITION GMBH
    Inventors: Heiner SCHMEES, Ralf-Joachim HERRMANN
  • Publication number: 20100192445
    Abstract: A gun barrel for locking spin-stabilized projectiles using a driving band and a sealing ring disposed behind the driving band, the gun barrel comprising a breach area, a rifled barrel part, and a transitional cone disposed between the breach area and the rifled barrel part. In order to achieve a reliable initial seal between the projectile and the profile of the rifled barrel part against hot propulsion charge gases, a smooth barrel section is disposed between the transitional cone connected to the breach area and the rifled barrel part, wherein the interior diameter of the smooth barrel section is greater than or equal to the exterior diameter of the driving band, but is approximately equal to the exterior diameter of the sealing ring, wherein the length of the smooth barrel section corresponds to at least the lengths of the driving band and the sealing ring of the projectile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: RHEINMETALL WAFFE MUNITION GMBH
    Inventor: Heiner Schmees
  • Publication number: 20100175549
    Abstract: A seal is proposed between the drum (2) having a plurality of cartridge chambers (3) and a weapon barrel (1) of a drum cannon, wherein the seal comprises at least one elastically pretensioned obturation ring (4). Each cartridge chamber (3) has an obturation ring (4) for drum-side integration, while one obturation ring (4) suffices for barrel-side integration. The obturation is integrated between the two and is pressed against the face (9) of the weapon barrel (1) or the face of the cartridge chamber (3) that is aligned with the bore axis of the weapon barrel (1) such that immediate sealing occurs even at low gas pressures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: RHEINMETALL WAFFE MUNITION GMBH
    Inventors: Ralf Joachim Herrmann, Hans Hülsewis, Heiner Schmees
  • Publication number: 20090320673
    Abstract: A gun barrel with a gun barrel liner and a breech ring, which are joined with each other by a bayonet thread. A continuous cavity is left between adjacent bayonet ridges of the gun barrel liner and the bayonet ridges of the breech ring that are located axially behind them or in front of them. A locking segment is inserted in at least one of the cavities that is formed in the installed gun barrel liner between adjacent bayonet ridges of the gun barrel liner and the bayonet ridges of the breech ring to prevent unintentional detachment of the gun barrel liner from the breech ring. The locking segment can completely fill the corresponding cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: RHEINMETALL WAFFE MUNITION GMBH
    Inventors: Klaus LAWITZKE, Ralf-Joachim HERRMANN, Bernhard SCHEIDELER, Heiner SCHMEES