Self-propelled, E.g., Tanks, Etc.) Patents (Class 89/36.08)
-
Publication number: 20110005382Abstract: Provided herein methods and structures for construction of light weight sandwich panels or load-bearing panels having improved ballistic protection. The methods disclosed can facilitate construction of a hybrid core comprising ballistic fabrics and deformable pins that exhibit superior resistance to ballistic penetration. The methods and structures of the present disclosures can be advantageously used in many applications, such as armored vehicles.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2007Publication date: January 13, 2011Inventors: Tony Farquhar, Richard Brian Marlowe
-
Patent number: 7862106Abstract: Utility vehicle, in particular for military purposes, with a chassis and a cab arranged on it frame so that it can be tilted, and guarded in certain places by affixed armor plating. The cab has a front module and a rear module, whereby the front module has a front wall, two side walls, a rear wall, a floor and a roof forming a cabin for the driver and co-driver. The rear module has a bearer frame enclosed at least in part by walls that form a hood-like protective and stowage space for the power aggregate and other vehicle parts and accessories. The rear module is releaseably attached to the rear of the front module and supported by it. Rear armoring of the cab is implemented by armor plating fitted between its front module and rear module.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2008Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: MAN Nutzfahzeuge Österreich AGInventors: Peter Hinze, Franz Ribo, Robert Wimmer
-
Patent number: 7861638Abstract: A transparent blast and ballistic projectile resistant barrier is comprised of a two-dimensional array of transparent hardened tiles that are encapsulated in a transparent resin layer. Preferably, the hardened tiles are transparent ceramic tiles, and the resin layer is a transparent polyurethane encapsulating the tiles. Additional transparent polycarbonate layers and glass fiber layers are also employed reinforcing the transparent barrier and providing the transparent barrier with polished exterior surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2007Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: DefBar Systems LLCInventors: Jeffrey D. Percival, Richard L. LaBrash
-
Publication number: 20100319525Abstract: The present invention is directed to an armor system that protects vehicle occupants from lands mines or improvised explosive devices. In the preferred embodiment, the armor system has an arc member, a membrane, reactive blocks, and a reactive block enclosure. The armor system is designed to dissipate, neutralize, and redirect explosion energy, fragments and shrapnel, thereby ensuring the safety of the vehicle occupants.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2010Publication date: December 23, 2010Inventor: John J. PAVON
-
Publication number: 20100319526Abstract: In accordance with a particular embodiment of the present disclosure, a method to mitigate a blast wave includes detecting an imminent explosion that produces a blast wave. In response to this detection, the energy of a portion of this blast wave may be reduced by deploying a fluid in the path of the blast wave.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2008Publication date: December 23, 2010Inventors: Timothy J. Imholt, Alexander F. St. Claire
-
Publication number: 20100313745Abstract: Force diversion apparatus, methods and devices including the same result in rotational motion being imparted to an impacting object.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2010Publication date: December 16, 2010Inventors: Gary F. Hawkins, Ching-Yao Tang
-
Publication number: 20100307329Abstract: A shock absorber system for use with a vehicle having a shield to reduce the effects of a shock event.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2010Publication date: December 9, 2010Inventors: Robert Kaswen, David M. Haugen
-
Publication number: 20100301647Abstract: A blast mitigating seat features a base and a seat frame. The seat frame includes a pan and a backrest including an open area for gear worn by a user. A first damping subsystem between the base and the seat frame has a first force/stroke relationship and a second damping subsystem between the base and the seat frame has a second force/stroke relationship.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 26, 2009Publication date: December 2, 2010Inventors: James A. Carter, Donald MacLeod, Patrick Callahan
-
Patent number: 7841269Abstract: An hydraulically deployable vehicle defense shield having a plurality of coplanar ballistic resistant elements in a single defense barrier that provides protection from the side to the vehicles engine and tires when non-deployed and when deployed provides cover for personnel exiting the vehicle and during a firefight. The defense barrier may also be deployed for the purpose of ramming another vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2007Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Inventor: Keith Jacobs
-
Patent number: 7823498Abstract: A protective structure for a vehicle having an opening on an upper surface is provided. One embodiment of the invention has at least a partial enclosure around an area defined laterally by the vehicle opening with an overhead and side protective capability. An embodiment of the invention has an overhead cover that is formed to substantially enclose a top area of the enclosure and having multiple panels that may be locked into place or opened by an occupant for exit through a top area of the enclosure. The multiple panels in this embodiment extend upwardly and inwardly from a section of the enclosure's side walls. Ballistic windows are provided on the protective structure such that an occupant can view laterally and vertically through the enclosure and overhead cover. A shield or protective plate can be mounted on one side of the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2007Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: John Schneider, Christopher Brown, Robin Cromwell, Donald Lowe
-
Patent number: 7819050Abstract: An improvement in an electric armor system designed to prevent, among other things, a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) from penetrating the hull of a fighting vehicle. The system includes a self-clearing electrode that will make the system less vulnerable to non-plasma objects that might otherwise short out the active armor electrodes. It optionally further allows for the early initiation of current flow at the point of penetration making it even easier to defeat incoming threats by allowing more time to break-up an incoming plasma jet.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2006Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: General AtomicsInventor: Frederick W. MacDougall
-
Patent number: 7810422Abstract: A protection device for an observation screen of a vehicle, wherein it is constituted by a plate of armor positioned outside of the vehicle, and pivoting arms ensuring the displacement of the armor plate from a passive position in which the field of vision is totally free and one or several protection positions.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2008Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Nexter SystemsInventors: Jean-Luc David, Michel Garnier, Olivier Germenot
-
Publication number: 20100251884Abstract: A kit for fitting a vehicle with protective armor includes an armored floor panel configured to be installed to a frame of the vehicle below an occupant compartment of the vehicle, and an armored shell configured to be received over an outer body of a cab of the vehicle. The armored shell may be removed to return the vehicle to its original, non-armored condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2006Publication date: October 7, 2010Applicant: ARMOR HOLDINGS, INC.Inventor: Ronan Floch
-
Patent number: 7789010Abstract: The adjustable louvered armor window system invention comprises angled louvers made of the lightweight opaque armor. For the front window a viewing window of ballistic glass can be installed, the rear or sides could be solid armor. The louvers have overlaps to provide for gap protection. When no threat is present, the louvers are in the full open position. Once a threat is detected, then the louvers are closed. The movement of the louvers can be accomplished by a push/pull cable, hydraulic pressure, air pressure or other means. The system in the fully open position allows for a complete unobstructed viewing area. In the semi-deployed or partial down position, the system provides partial ballistic coverage for the occupant, and still allows for some occupant vision capability. In the fully deployed, or fully closed position, the system provides full ballistic coverage for the occupant, with a small viewing area or port, which is made of ballistic grade transparent armor.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2007Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Ceradyne, Inc.Inventors: Richard L. Allor, Michael K. Benjamin, David A. DeTroyer, James C. LaLonde, Terry R. Peckham, Alan J. Peleshok, Dainius E. Skiotys
-
Publication number: 20100218669Abstract: A modular armored cab kit is provided for use on an armored vehicle that includes a cab body having a frame, an armored roof, an armored floor and a plurality of attachment elements, with the roof, floor and attachment elements being permanently attached to the frame. The cab kit further includes at least one non-armored panel, at least one non-armored door, at least one armored panel and at least one armored door, each for attachment to the cab body. The attachment elements facilitate field installation and removal of the panels and doors, wherein the non-armored panel and door are removably attached to the frame in a relatively low threat environment and are removed from the frame and replaced with the armored panel and door in a heightened threat environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2010Publication date: September 2, 2010Applicant: Armor Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Brock D. Cunningham, Kevin M. Klatte, David Wolf
-
Publication number: 20100218667Abstract: An underbelly for an armored vehicle is provided, configured for providing ballistic protection against a detonation of an explosive device detonated substantially therebelow. The underbelly comprises a central portion having a lowermost area, sidewalls extending upwardly therefrom, the central portion and sidewalls constituting a main armor of the underbelly, and an auxiliary armor panel disposed so as to project downwardly from the lowermost area of the central portion. Upper portions of the sidewalls are free of any auxiliary armor panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2010Publication date: September 2, 2010Applicant: PLASAN SASA LTD.Inventors: Dmitry NARODITSKY, Tamir KOTON, Zvi ASAF, Felix AIZIK, Moshe RAVID
-
Patent number: 7779742Abstract: An armor module having a rigid casing having a front face, a top face and a bottom face, and a plurality of multi-layer planner cassettes fixedly mounted within the casing. Each cassette has a top base plate and a bottom base plate, sandwiching between them at least a one other layer. The top base plate of an uppermost cassette constitutes the top face of the casing, and a bottom base plate of a lowermost cassette constitutes the bottom face of the casing.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2006Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Assignee: Rafael Armament Development Authority Ltd.Inventors: Moshe Benyami, Samuel Friling, Sony Helvanyo
-
Publication number: 20100206158Abstract: This invention relates to an armour arrangement (10). The armour arrangement (10) comprises a plurality of disruption members (12) located adjacent one another, being at least partially spaced apart from one another and being angularly displaced relative to the surface. Each disruption member is arcuate in cross-section and includes three disruption bodies (14), positioned side-by-side to, such that the disruption member is in the shape of a half-parabolic curve.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 4, 2008Publication date: August 19, 2010Inventor: Rufus Stephanus Neethling
-
Publication number: 20100192762Abstract: A field configurable vehicle armoring system and associated method allow a user to retrofit and reconfigure a combination of armor components in response to a perceived threat change and using original equipment manufacture fasteners and holes. The system includes pillar armor attachable after an original equipment manufacture door and hinge are removed. Fasteners extend through the hinge of the armored door, the pillar armor and an original equipment manufacture pillar using holes other than the original equipment manufacture holes. Rocker panel and underbody armor is further provided, along with a ballistic resistant windscreen and rear wall armor. Where desired, system armor includes a composite plate comprising a strike face that is constructed from softer metallic material than an inner metallic sheet.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2010Publication date: August 5, 2010Applicants: BAE Systems Survivability Systems, LLCInventors: Michael S. Boczek, Todd A. Huffington, Kevin M. Klatte, Robert C. Martin, Michael D. Reynolds, JR., David J. Wolf
-
Publication number: 20100170387Abstract: An armor plate for use in the ballistic protection of a structure against projectiles incoming from an expected threat direction, the plate having an outer face facing the threat direction and comprising a layer of first pellets made of ballistic material of a high density S1 and having a characteristic diameter DP, and second pellets which have a low density section with a central axis transverse to the outer face, along which the low density section at least partially extends, the low density section of the second pellets having a density S2 which is in the range 0?S2<<S1, the second pellets having an outer characteristic diameter DOUT substantially equal to the diameter DP and the low density section having an inner characteristic diameter DIN, DIN<DOUT, each second pellet being surrounded only by the first pelletsType: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2009Publication date: July 8, 2010Applicant: PLASAN SASA LTD.Inventors: Moshe RAVID, Avram YA'AKOBOVICH
-
Publication number: 20100170389Abstract: An armoured vehicle is provided having an armoured driver's cab (2, 3) including seating and controls for at least engine, steering, brakes and gears of the vehicle. The drivers cab includes permanent armour (2) and a removable optionally armoured element in the form of an upper cab (3). The upper cab may be removed without disturbing the seating and controls.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2008Publication date: July 8, 2010Applicant: BAE SYSTEMS PLCInventor: Andrew North
-
Publication number: 20100170388Abstract: An armored vehicle is provided having an armored driver's cab (2, 3) with a lower armored portion (2) and a chassis including a pair of longitudinally extending rails (18, 19). The lower armored portion of the cab (2) is structurally integral with the rails (18, 19) whereby to form an integral part of the chassis.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2008Publication date: July 8, 2010Applicant: BAE SYSTEMS PLCInventor: Andrew North
-
Patent number: 7730822Abstract: A body and any occupant of a land vehicle (10) is protected against effects of a landmine explosion, by conducting shock waves laterally outwardly by means of one or more shock wave guide members (16, 18) of a material having high acoustic velocity, and located proximate a ground engaging element (12) of the vehicle. The material may be glass, ceramic or the like having an acoustic velocity of about 6000 m/sec or more, i.e. higher than other materials of other components of the land vehicle. Shock waves encounter less resistance in high-acoustic velocity materials and are thus conducted laterally outwardly, i.e. away from the body. The shock wave guide members may be located immediately above bottom runs of tracks (12) and annularly within wells of bogey wheels (14) of track vehicles; and annularly around hubs or within tyres of wheels of wheeled vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2004Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: CSIRInventor: Vernon P. Joynt
-
Patent number: 7698985Abstract: A modular energy barrier system has at least one energy barrier module. The module has a substantially rigid casing and an energy absorbing filler material. The casing has at least one frangible side. The filler material is disposed inside the casing. The casing is adapted to be connected to a base support so that the module is interposed between the base structure and an energy source and the at least one frangible side of the casing is oriented to face energy released by the energy source.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2006Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: C{dot over (o)}lt Rapip Mat LLCInventors: Robert Timothy Tapp, William M. Keys
-
Patent number: 7694621Abstract: Improved composite armor designs uses optimally shaped ceramic pellets, a specific stacking geometry and a web system for patterning the pellets, improving manufacturability, and providing additional structural reinforcement. Lightweight, composite ballistic armor according to the invention may comprise an array of ceramic pellets, each pellet having a front surface, a back surface and a longitudinal centerline, and wherein the front surface of each pellet is intentionally convex. The front surface of each pellet may be hemispherical, in which case the cross-section of the pellet taken perpendicular to the centerline may be oval-shaped. Alternatively, the front surface of each pellet may be elliptical, in which case the cross-section of the pellet taken perpendicular to the centerline may be circular. In the preferred embodiment, the back surface of each pellet is formed at the same angle relative to its centerline, with the pellets being arranged with the flat surfaces lying in a plane.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2008Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: MKP Structural Design Associates, Inc.Inventor: Zheng-Dong Ma
-
Publication number: 20100077913Abstract: A modular armored cab kit is provided for use on an armored vehicle that includes a cab body having a frame, an armored roof, an armored floor and a plurality of attachment elements, with the roof, floor and attachment elements being permanently attached to the frame. The cab kit further includes at least one non-armored panel, at least one non-armored door, at least one armored panel and at least one armored door, each for attachment to the cab body. The attachment elements facilitate field installation and removal of the panels and doors, wherein the non-armored panel and door are removably attached to the frame in a relatively low threat environment and are removed from the frame and replaced with the armored panel and door in a heightened threat environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2006Publication date: April 1, 2010Applicant: ARMOR HOLDINGS, INC.Inventors: Brock D. Cunningham, Kevin M. Klatte, David Wolf
-
Publication number: 20100071539Abstract: A field configurable vehicle armoring system and associated method allow a user to retrofit and reconfigure a combination of armor components in response to a perceived threat change and using original equipment manufacture fasteners and holes. The system includes pillar armor attachable after an original equipment manufacture door and hinge are removed. Fasteners extend through the hinge of the armored door, the pillar armor and an original equipment manufacture pillar using holes other than the original equipment manufacture holes. Rocker panel and underbody armor is further provided, along with a ballistic resistant windscreen and rear wall armor. Where desired, system armor includes a composite plate comprising a strike face that is constructed from softer metallic material than an inner metallic sheet.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2004Publication date: March 25, 2010Inventors: Michael S. Boczek, Todd A. Huffington, Kevin M. Klatte, Robert C. Martin, Michael D. Reynolds, JR., David J. Wolf
-
Publication number: 20100037761Abstract: A field configurable vehicle armoring system and associated method allow a user to retrofit and reconfigure a combination of armor components in response to a perceived threat change and using original equipment manufacture fasteners and holes. The system includes pillar armor attachable after an original equipment manufacture door and hinge are removed. Fasteners extend through the hinge of the armored door, the pillar armor and an original equipment manufacture pillar using holes other than the original equipment manufacture holes. Rocker panel and underbody armor is further provided, along with a ballistic resistant windscreen and rear wall armor. Where desired, system armor includes a composite plate comprising a strike face that is constructed from softer metallic material than an inner metallic sheet.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2009Publication date: February 18, 2010Applicant: BAE Systems Survivability Systems, LLCInventors: Michael S. Boczek, Todd A. Huffington, Kevin M. Klatte, Robert C. Martin, Michael D. Reynolds, JR., David J. Wolf
-
Publication number: 20100005644Abstract: A protective structure for a vehicle having an opening on an upper surface is provided. One embodiment of the invention has at least a partial enclosure around an area defined laterally by the vehicle opening with an overhead and side protective capability. An embodiment of the invention has an overhead cover that is formed to substantially enclose a top area of the enclosure and having multiple panels that may be locked into place or opened by an occupant for exit through a top area of the enclosure. The multiple panels in this embodiment extend upwardly and inwardly from a section of the enclosure's side walls. Ballistic windows are provided on the protective structure such that an occupant can view laterally and vertically through the enclosure and overhead cover. A shield or protective plate can be mounted on one side of the enclosure.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2009Publication date: January 14, 2010Inventors: John Schneider, Christopher Brown, Robin Cromwell, Donald Lowe
-
Patent number: 7628104Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing ballistic protection and stopping high-velocity rounds or explosives. A ballistic panel for providing protection includes a three-dimensional core designed as a structural truss that includes a plurality of nodes and provides structural support of the ballistic panel, a ceramic grinding layer that includes a plurality of ceramic grinding media that fills in the nodes of the core, an elastomeric, self-healing outer coating that encapsulates the ceramic grinding layer and a backing affixed to a non-threat side of the ballistic panel. The core absorbs and dissipates force from projectile and explosive force impacts on the ballistic panel and the ceramic grinding layer re-directs and causes the projectiles to break apart.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2007Date of Patent: December 8, 2009Assignee: Armordynamics, Inc.Inventors: David H. Warren, Wayne Schaeffer
-
Publication number: 20090293712Abstract: According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a reinforced cabin for a vehicle adapted to protect the interior of the cabin against a threat of a certain maximal force. The vehicle cabin is defined by at least a vehicle belly and side walls extending upwardly therefrom. The cabin comprises a vehicle floor extending between the side walls and spaced a distance L1 from the vehicle belly; at least one passenger seat comprising a seat portion parallel to the floor, and positioned such that there extends a space of a distance L2 between the seat portion and the vehicle floor; and at least one resistance member having a proximal end fixedly attached to the belly and a distal end adjacent the vehicle floor, and located at least partially underneath the seat portion. The belly is adapted to undergo upward deformation under the certain maximal force towards the floor of a distance L3.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2009Publication date: December 3, 2009Applicant: Plasan Sasa Ltd.Inventors: Eylam RAN, Nir KAHN
-
Publication number: 20090282970Abstract: A vehicle protected against the effect of an external explosion and having a vehicle housing disposed on a chassis. The vehicle housing has at least one entry/exit door in at least one side wall, the door being disposed in a door opening of the side wall and being hinged to a front edge of the door opening as viewed in a forward direction of travel and in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. An inwardly projecting reinforcing rib is disposed on an inner side of the side wall parallel to and in the immediate vicinity of a rear edge of the door opening. A driver's seat is disposed in the vehicle housing in the area of the door opening and has a seat panel and a backrest. The rear edge of the door opening extends essentially parallel to an upright direction of the backrest, and in all positions of the driver's seat the reinforcing rib extends immediately next to or behind the backrest.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2007Publication date: November 19, 2009Inventor: Eugen Schlegl
-
Patent number: 7603939Abstract: The invention provides a composite armor plate for absorbing and dissipating kinetic energy from high-velocity projectiles, the plate comprising a single internal layer of pellets which are bound and retained in plate form the pellets being characterized by a substantially regular geometric cross-sectional area, the cross-sectional area being substantially polygonal with rounded corners.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2005Date of Patent: October 20, 2009Inventor: Michael Cohen
-
Patent number: 7600808Abstract: A utility vehicles, in particular for military purposes, with a chassis and a cab arranged on the frame of said chassis so that it can be tilted. The cab has a front module and a rear module. The front module forms a cabin for the driver and co-driver. The rear module forms a hood-like protective and stowage space for vehicle aggregates, parts and accessories. The floor of the front module is reinforced by two longitudinal floor members extended through the front module rear wall by supporting brackets to support the rear module. There are supports so that the rear module, can rest on the extended supporting brackets of the longitudinal floor members. On the front module rear wall and at the front of the rear module bearer frame there are matching supporting and joining elements at different levels with flush boreholes or through-holes through which screws can be threaded to securely join the two cab modules on a longitudinal, crosswise and vertical axis, and also enabling them to be released.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2008Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: MAN Nutzfahrzeuge Österreich AGInventors: Peter Hinze, Friedrich Beer, Franz Ribo, Robert Wimmer
-
Patent number: 7597040Abstract: A protective device for use in containing high energy debris and pressure is provided which employs a plurality of energy absorption elements disposed on an outer surface of a rigid inner sheet, where the outer surface faces away from the body being protected and toward the high energy event, such as an explosion. Each energy absorption element extends generally away from the body to permit the high energy event to first impact upon the energy absorption elements, rather than the body. Energy absorption elements are formed of laminate composite materials. As such, energy absorption elements are configured to contain or reduce high energy debris material and pressure impacting the energy absorption element through delamination and possibly penetration of the composite material.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2005Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Jonathan W. Gabrys
-
Patent number: 7546796Abstract: An armor includes a face sheet, a spall liner, and a core disposed between the face sheet and the spall liner. The core includes a polymeric matrix and a plurality of ceramic rods disposed in the polymeric matrix. The armor further includes a first shock dissipation layer disposed between the face sheet and the core. The armor optionally includes a second shock dissipation layer disposed between the spall liner and the core.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2006Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventor: David L. Hunn
-
Patent number: 7540229Abstract: Disclosed is an explosive reactive armor with a momentum transfer mechanism by developing a new protection mechanism in which a momentum transfer mechanism by detonation of a reactive material is integrated with a thickness increase mechanism. In this explosive reactive armor with the momentum transfer mechanism, a flying element always travels with a vertical angle or a slant angle with respect to an ongoing direction of the threat such that a momentum of the flying element is transferred to the threat effectively. As a result of this, shear force is induced over an entire length of the threat and thus the threat can be destroyed. Therefore, a protection effect can always be achieved regardless of an impact angle of the threat. Also, a protection capability can be achieved even in case of a vertical impact which is the most vulnerable case for the existing explosive reactive armor.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2005Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Agency for Defense DevelopmentInventors: Yongseok Seo, Jeong-Tae Kim, Chang Choi
-
Patent number: 7540240Abstract: A protection device for land vehicles against mines, wherein it incorporates a metallic plate positioned under the vehicle so as to normalize the magnetic field generated by the vehicle and/or by its elements and at least one loop positioned under the metallic plate and made of an electrically conductive material connected to an electrical supply so as to generate a magnetic field of a value substantially equal to the opposing sign of the magnetic field from the vehicle so as to render said vehicle undetectable by magnetic detection mines.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2005Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Giat IndustriesInventors: Sylvain Carlier, Benoit Pizon
-
Patent number: 7533924Abstract: An energy absorbing device for reducing acceleration transmitted to a seated occupant in a vehicle as a result of a high energy impact. The device comprises a first energy absorbing mechanism having a first dimension in the impact direction and capable of undergoing predetermined elastic deformation in that direction; and a second energy absorbing mechanism having a second dimension in the impact direction, which is smaller than the first dimension by a distance corresponding to that elastic deformation. The second mechanism is loaded with the impact force after the first mechanism has undergone elastic deformation; the second mechanism comprises a material capable of progressive deformation. The device may comprise a restriction mechanism connecting the two plates, adapted to restrict displacement of the first plate relative to the second plate in any direction different from the impact direction.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2008Date of Patent: May 19, 2009Assignee: Plasan Sasa Agricultural Cooperative Society Ltd.Inventors: Moshe Ravid, Shlomo Birger
-
Publication number: 20090120274Abstract: A protective structure for a vehicle having an opening on an upper surface is provided. One embodiment of the invention has at least a partial enclosure around an area defined laterally by the vehicle opening with an overhead and side protective capability. An embodiment of the invention has an overhead cover that is formed to substantially enclose a top area of the enclosure and having multiple panels that may be locked into place or opened by an occupant for exit through a top area of the enclosure. The multiple panels in this embodiment extend upwardly and inwardly from a section of the enclosure's side walls. Ballistic windows are provided on the protective structure such that an occupant can view laterally and vertically through the enclosure and overhead cover. A shield or protective plate can be mounted on one side of the enclosure.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2007Publication date: May 14, 2009Inventors: John Schneider, Christopher Brown, Donald Lowe
-
Publication number: 20090120273Abstract: The invention described herein is a tactical assault and rescue vehicle system, in which the base vehicle is preferably a tracked multi-terrain loader with modular attachments that can be added and removed to the lifting unit of the base vehicle. The modular attachments comprise an assault and rescue platform, a powered extensible ram unit, and a vehicle extraction device. The system also provides a trailer for towing the base vehicle and acting as a mobile tactical operations center.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2006Publication date: May 14, 2009Inventors: Jeremy K. Eckdahl, Michael C. Thompson
-
Publication number: 20090100999Abstract: An armor assembly for a vehicle having a body frame includes an inner ballistic panel attached to the body frame of the vehicle, and an outer ballistic panel attached to the body frame. The outer ballistic panel is pivotably disposed with respect to the inner ballistic panel and is pivotable from a first position generally adjacent and parallel to the inner ballistic panel, to a second position generally 180-degrees from the first position.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2006Publication date: April 23, 2009Applicant: INTERNATIONAL TRUCK INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY COMPANY, LLCInventor: Mark R. Marqueling
-
Publication number: 20090056529Abstract: The subject of the invention is utility vehicles, in particular for military purposes, with a chassis and a cab (1) arranged on its frame (4) so that it can be tilted, and guarded in certain places by affixed armour plating (88). The inventive cab (1) is composed of a front module (5) and a rear module (6), whereby the front module (5) exhibits a front wall (7), two side walls (8, 9), a rear wall (10), a floor (11) and a roof (12), and forms a cabin for the driver and co-driver. The rear module (6), by comparison, exhibits a bearer frame (17) enclosed at least in part by walls (13, 14, 16), and forms a hood-like protective and stowage space for the power aggregate and other vehicle parts and accessories. Furthermore, the rear module (6) is attached to the rear of the front module (5) and supported by it, and may also be released. The rear armouring of the cab (1) is implemented by armour plating (88) fitted between its front module (5) and rear module (6).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2008Publication date: March 5, 2009Applicant: Man Nutzfahrzeuge Osterreich AGInventors: Peter HINZE, Franz Ribo, Robert Wimmer
-
Publication number: 20090050234Abstract: A rapidly deployable camouflage device for concealing recognizable signatures of military objects, comprising a camouflage balloon and a deployment and undeployment device, the latter being equipped with a housing and a fan for inflating the balloon arranged on an opening in the housing. According to the invention, the balloon can be pulled into the housing by means of pull lines secured at one end to the inside of the balloon opposite the opening, and at the other end to a motor-driven winding device inside the housing. The balloon is thus pulled in in such a way that it is reversed inside the housing, from which state if can then be blown out unreversed as rapidly deployable camouflage.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2005Publication date: February 26, 2009Inventor: Johan Zaar
-
Patent number: 7493844Abstract: Disclosed is an integrated vehicle and personal ballistic protection system providing a combination of space utilization, portability and increased personal safety. Also disclosed are kits for up-fitting the shield to an existing installed partition, and a kit for the trunk. The embodiment s depicted and suggested include a vehicle partition integrated with a hand-carry, quickly deployable, self-supporting, ballistic shield including a handle, and shaped to cooperate with a vehicle security partition and is part of the partition when temporarily stowed. An additional optional design feature of the shield is a shape that cooperates with removable mounting hardware for stowing on the underside of the trunk lid, under the rear deck, or on the trunk floor. A benefit of unitary construction, is that governmental safety forces can issue the same shield for cruisers and unmarked detective vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2006Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Inventor: Chad Brian Martin
-
Publication number: 20090044694Abstract: The adjustable louvered armor window system invention comprises angled louvers made of the lightweight opaque armor. For the front window a viewing window of ballistic glass can be installed, the rear or sides could be solid armor. The louvers have overlaps to provide for gap protection. When no threat is present, the louvers are in the full open position. Once a threat is detected, then the louvers are closed. The movement of the louvers can be accomplished by a push/pull cable, hydraulic pressure, air pressure or other means. The system in the fully open position allows for a complete unobstructed viewing area. In the semi-deployed or partial down position, the system provides partial ballistic coverage for the occupant, and still allows for some occupant vision capability. In the fully deployed, or fully closed position, the system provides full ballistic coverage for the occupant, with a small viewing area or port, which is made of ballistic grade transparent armor.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2007Publication date: February 19, 2009Inventors: Richard L. Allor, Michael K. Benjamin, David A. DeTroyer, James C. LaLonde, Terry R. Peckham, Alan J. Peleshok, Dainius E. Skiotys
-
Publication number: 20090044695Abstract: In the spring assisted articulating window armor system invention, lightweight opaque armor is stored in the down position when not needed. When the armor is needed, a locking pin is released and two air cylinders or gas springs move the armor into the protected position. Then the upper half is hinged to the lower half and the upper armor is raised into position and the locking pin is reinstalled to hold the armor in position. The system in the down position allows for a complete unobstructed viewing area. In the semi-deployed or partial up position, the system provides partial ballistic coverage for the occupant, and still allows for some occupant vision capability. In the fully deployed, or full up position, the system provides full ballistic coverage for the occupant.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2007Publication date: February 19, 2009Inventors: Michael K. Benjamin, Christopher J. Brady, Matthew R. Fodal, Gerald J. Holmes, Alan J. Peleshok, Dainius E. Skiotys, John J. Sterne
-
Patent number: 7490539Abstract: Improved composite armor designs use optimally shaped ceramic pellets and a web system for patterning the pellets, improving manufacturability, and providing additional structural reinforcement. The result is lightweight, composite hybrid structures for ballistic protection particularly suited to tactical ground vehicles. The preferred embodiment is a combination of three major components: 1) an optimally designed web system that allows armor tiles to be attached to it and that can be easily integrated with existing vehicle structures; 2) an advanced composite armor unit using a patent-pending BTR (Bio-mimetic Tendon-Reinforced) material as the supporting structure; and 3) optimally placed “waiting materials” which can provide enhanced ballistic impact resistance, energy absorption capability and structural integrity. These “waiting materials” are structural members that are not active at the beginning of the ballistic impact, but become active when needed or the active members have failed.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2005Date of Patent: February 17, 2009Assignee: MKP Structural Design Associates, Inc.Inventor: Zheng-Dong Ma
-
Publication number: 20090025547Abstract: The Highly Survivable Urban Utility Vehicle (HSUUV) provides a novel way to balance the concerns of armor, mobility and cost. Prior art distributes armor to protect all areas of the vehicle evenly, thereby distributing the maximum armor weight capacity evenly. The HSUUV provides armored protection in levels, which vary depending on the location of the armor and that location's ballistic threat. Entrance to the HSUUV is located in location(s) other than the traditional side door(s) so as to provide additional armored protection in the area receiving the greatest ballistic threat. Using the HSUUV, soldiers can safely and quickly enter areas that they otherwise would have had to fight and sustain casualties to enter. The vehicle will give United States forces an unprecedented amount of flexibility, allowing for better strategic and tactical decisions.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2008Publication date: January 29, 2009Inventor: Robert W. Kocher
-
Patent number: 7478580Abstract: A gunner protection apparatus for a tactical or armored vehicle having a turret or hatch opening that exposes crewmembers to enemy threats. The gunner protection apparatus includes a turret portion attached to the vehicle's turret, the turret portion comprising a substantially circular base plate fixed to the vehicle's turret; a plurality of vertical supports fixed to the base plate; a plurality of clamps connected to the plurality of vertical supports, respectively; and a plurality of curved glass panels having ends fixed between the clamps and the vertical supports; a gun support disposed in a bearing sleeve hole and rotatable about a vertical axis of the bearing sleeve hole; and a front shield fixed to the gun support, the front shield having a gun opening and at least one window, the front shield being rotatable with the gun support.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2006Date of Patent: January 20, 2009Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: Sanjay Parimi, Thomas Kiel, Anthony Cautero, Antonio D. Ralph