GB2551455A - Munitions container, marine vessel magazine, marine vessel and method of operating the same - Google Patents
Munitions container, marine vessel magazine, marine vessel and method of operating the same Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- GB2551455A GB2551455A GB1713594.8A GB201713594A GB2551455A GB 2551455 A GB2551455 A GB 2551455A GB 201713594 A GB201713594 A GB 201713594A GB 2551455 A GB2551455 A GB 2551455A
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- United Kingdom
- Prior art keywords
- container
- munitions
- munition
- container according
- optionally
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B39/00—Packaging or storage of ammunition or explosive charges; Safety features thereof; Cartridge belts or bags
- F42B39/26—Packages or containers for a plurality of ammunition, e.g. cartridges
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F42—AMMUNITION; BLASTING
- F42B—EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING, FIREWORKS, AMMUNITION
- F42B39/00—Packaging or storage of ammunition or explosive charges; Safety features thereof; Cartridge belts or bags
- F42B39/22—Locking of ammunition in transport containers
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Filling Or Discharging Of Gas Storage Vessels (AREA)
Abstract
A munitions container 801 for the storage and transportation of a plurality of elongate munitions comprises a first movement interface 803a, 803b facilitating the movement of the container 801. The container 801 comprises one or more berths 808a-i for the storage of munitions. The one or berths 808a-i are arranged for storing munitions in other than an upright orientation. The first movement interface 803a, 803b may be for receiving the tines of a forklift truck.
Description
Munitions container, marine vessel magazine, marine vessel and method of operating the same
Field of the Invention
The present invention concerns munitions containers, marine vessel magazines, marine vessels and methods of operating the same.
Background of the Invention
The supply and handling of munitions aboard a naval vessel is a complex process. Typically, a crate containing several munitions is delivered to the vessel. The crate may then be delivered to the magazine where the crate is emptied or the munitions may be removed from the crate and then delivered to the magazine. The individual munitions are then stored in the vessel's magazine, typically in racking. Removal of the munitions from the crate is time-consuming and, in certain circumstances, dangerous. Once in the racking, the munitions are ready for use. Automated systems may be used to pick-up each munition and transfer the munition to a loading station. Such automated systems are complex because of the large number of positions in which munitions are stored. Alternatively, a munition may be manually selected and transferred to a loading station. Such a manual operation is time-consuming and may be dangerous.
The present invention seeks to mitigate one or more of the above-mentioned problems and/or provide an alternative munitions container, marine vessel magazines, marine vessels and methods of operating the same.
Summary of the Invention A first aspect of the present invention provides a munitions container for the storage and transportation of a plurality of elongate munitions, the munitions container comprising a first movement interface facilitating the movement of the container using the first movement interface, the container comprising one or more berths for the storage of munitions, the one or more berths being arranged for storing munitions in other than an upright orientation.
The munitions container of the present invention facilitates the movement, and storage, of multiple munitions in an orientation other than an upright orientation, without having to unload the munitions until required by a weapon. This may reduce manning levels required to operate the magazine and may decrease the time required to load the munitions into the vessel magazine. The munitions container of the first aspect of the present invention is typically for use, and used, in a naval vessel, such as a destroyer.
The first movement interface is typically for receiving one or more tines of a forklift truck, thus facilitating movement of the container prior to storage in a naval vessel using a fork lift or pallet trolley whose tines are received by the first movement interface.
The container optionally comprises a second movement interface facilitating the movement of the container using the second movement interface. The provision of a second movement interface facilitates the movement of the munitions container (together with a plurality of munitions) around a vessel's magazine and in particular facilitates the movement of a plurality of munitions from a stowed position in a vessel's magazine to an unloading position where one or more munitions can be removed from the container.
As indicated above, the container is arranged to store munitions in an orientation other than an upright orientation. "Upright" refers to the orientation of a munition when the container is in a normal, standard orientation. The container may be arranged to store munitions tilted from an upright orientation by at least 30 degrees, at least 60 degrees, at least 80 degrees and optionally at least 85 degrees. The container may be arranged to store munitions in a substantially horizontal orientation .
The container may be configured to be stackable. This is of particular benefit if the container is arranged to store munitions in a substantially horizontal orientation. The container may be provided with means for securing said container when in a stacked configuration. For example, the container may be provided with a first securing arrangement for cooperating with a corresponding securing arrangement provided on an adjacent (stacked) container. For example, the container may comprise a first securing arrangement and a second securing arrangement, the first securing arrangement for cooperating with a second securing arrangement on an adjacent, stacked container, and the second securing arrangement for cooperating with a first securing arrangement provided on an adjacent, stacked container. The first securing arrangement may be associated with (and optionally be provided at) the bottom of the container. The second securing arrangement may be associated with (and optionally provided at) the top of the container.
The first and/or second securing arrangement may comprise one or means for locking the container to an adjacent, stacked container. The one or more means for locking the container to an adjacent, stacked container may be operable between locked and unlocked states. The one or more means for locking the container to an adjacent, stacked container support may be biased into the locked state, for example, by a biasing means, such as a spring.
The container may comprise a latching mechanism operable to move the one or more means for locking the container to an adjacent, stacked container support from a locked state to an unlocked state. The second movement interface, if present, may facilitate the movement of the container, for example, the lifting of the container from above .
The first movement interface is optionally provided by a pallet portion. The first movement interface is optionally provided by two slots for the receipt of two tines of a forklift truck. The first movement interface is typically provided at or near one end of the munitions container, typically at or near the bottom of the munitions container.
If the container is arranged to store munitions in a generally horizontal manner and the first movement interface is provided by two slots for the receipt of two tines of a forklift truck, then the two slots may optionally be substantially parallel, or substantially perpendicular, to the longitudinal axis of the munitions, in use. If the container comprises one or more elongate berths, the two slots may optionally be substantially parallel, or substantially perpendicular, to the longitudinal axis of one or more elongate berths.
The munitions container may be suitable for storing and transporting from 4 to 20 munitions, optionally from 4 to 12 munitions and optionally from 6 to 12 munitions.
The munitions container may comprise a plurality of berths, each for the storage of at least one (and optionally only one) munition. The plurality of berths may be arranged to store the elongate munitions with the longitudinal axes substantially parallel to one another. One or more berths are optionally elongate, and are optionally substantially parallel to one another. One or more berths optionally has a longest dimension of from 0.8m to 2m. One or more berths optionally has a width and depth of from 5cm to 50cm, optionally of from 5cm to 30cm and optionally of from 10cm to 20cm. The plurality of berths (if present) may be arranged in a grid-like arrangement, for example, in an n x m grid, where n and m are integers of 1 or more, provided that at least one of n and m is two or more. At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each, berth may comprise a compartment for the storage of one or more munition, and optionally for the storage of one (and only one) munition. A compartment is a berth which is at least partially separated from one or more adjacent berths, for example by a partition. The provision of a partition between adjacent berths may reduce the risk of an unwanted munition explosion causing the unwanted detonation of nearby munitions. A partition may optionally be shorter than the munition for which the berth is intended or may be longer than the munition for which the berth is intended.
Typically, a partition is optionally provided between each berth and adjacent berths so that all of the berths are in the form of compartments.
The container may comprise from 4 to 20 berths, optionally from 4 to 12 and optionally from 6 to 12 berths.
At least one (optionally more than one and optionally each) berth may be provided with at least one munition retainer for securing a munition. At least one (optionally more than one and optionally each) berth may be provided with a plurality of munition retainers for securing a munition. Such munition retainers are optionally mutually spaced to engage different parts of a munition. At least one (optionally more than one and optionally each) munition retainer may comprise a biasing means for assisting the retention of the munition. At least one (optionally more than one and optionally each) munition retainer may be arranged to release the munition on the application of a releasing force. The releasing force is typically sufficiently high to inhibit unwanted release of a munition, but is sufficiently low to allow a munition to be released when desired. At least one (optionally more than one and optionally each) munition retainer may comprise a resiliently deformable clamp, such as a spring-loaded retaining clamp or clip. At least one (optionally more than one and optionally each) munition retainer may comprise one or more biasing means for retaining the munition and an aperture or space for the receipt of the munition. At least one (optionally more than one and optionally each) munition retainer may be generally C shaped.
The munitions container may comprise one or more munitions. The munitions container may comprise from 4 to 20 munitions, optionally from 4 to 12 and optionally from 6 to 12 munitions. The container may be suitable for carrying munitions having a calibre of from 50mm to 180mm, typically of from 75mm to 180mm, typically of from 100mm to 160mm, typically of from 140 to 160mm. The container may be suitable for carrying munitions having a mass of from 10kg to 150kg, typically of from 10kg to 50kg and typically of from 35kg to 50kg. The container may be suitable for carrying munitions having a length of at least 500mm, optionally up to 2000mm, optionally up to 3000mm and optionally up to 4000mm.
The container may be suitable for the storage and transportation of two-piece ammunition. For example, the container may be suitable for the storage and transportation of a plurality of one part (e.g. the projectile or charge) of two-part ammunition.
If the container comprises a top and a bottom and one or more sides, one or more berths (and the munition(s) therein, if present) may optionally be accessible from an end of the container. For the avoidance of doubt, a berth is accessible from an end of the container even if a closure is provided, so long as the closure is movable so that the berth can be accessed. Alternatively or additionally, one or more berths (and the munition(s) therein, if present) may optionally be accessible from a top and/or a bottom of the container .
The munitions container may comprise one or more closures for inhibiting access to one or more munitions. The container may comprise a closure for inhibiting access to more than one (and optionally all) munitions in said container. Alternatively or additionally, the munitions container may comprise a plurality of closures, each inhibiting access to one or more munitions. Each closure may inhibit access to one (and only one) munition. In this case, each munition has a closure associated with it. At least one closure (and optionally more than one closure and optionally each closure) is movable between a first position in which access to one or more munition is inhibited and a second position in which one or more munition is accessible. In the second position, the closure may be detached from the container or may be attached to the rest of the container, for example, using one or more hinges.
If the munitions container comprises one or more berths, then one or more of said berths may be provided with a closure for inhibiting access to one or more munitions. Each berth may, for example, be provided with a closure which inhibits access to one (and only one) munition.
At least one (optionally more than one and optionally each) closure may be removable.
At least one (optionally more than one and optionally each) closure may be provided on an end of the container. In this case, the closure is typically movable (this includes removable) to allow access to an end aspect of a munition.
The first movement interface is optionally provided at or proximate to the bottom of the container. The second movement interface is optionally provided at or proximate to the top of the container to facilitate lifting of the container from above using an overhead lifting system. A central region of the container may be provided with the second lifting arrangement.
The container may be provided with a supporting structure. The supporting structure may be provided with the second movement interface. The supporting structure may be associated with a central region of the container.
The second movement interface may be provided by one or more projections and/or apertures for engagement with corresponding projections or apertures provided on a lifting apparatus. For example, the interface may be provided by one or more apertures for the receipt of corresponding projections provided on a lifting apparatus.
The second movement interface is typically provided at or near the top of the container. This facilitates the lifting of the container from above using an overhead lifting system.
The one or more projections and/or apertures may optionally face substantially inwards. The one or more projections and/or apertures may be provided in the supporting structure, if present.
The second lifting interface is optionally suitable for lifting masses of at least 200kg, of at least 300kg and at least 400kg, optionally up to 850kg and optionally up to 1000kg.
The munitions container may comprise one or more munition carriage for supporting and moving at least one munition, at least one or more munitions carriage being moveable from a first position in which the at least one munition supported by the munitions carriage is inaccessible and to a second position in which the at least one munition supported by the munitions carriage is accessible. This is particularly preferred if the munition is stored substantially horizontally. A munitions container may comprise more than one such munitions carriage. For example, each berth may be provided with a munition carriage. At least one, and optionally more than one and optionally each munition carriage is for supporting and moving one (and only one) munition. At least one, and optionally more than one and optionally each munition carriage is for supporting and moving more than one munition.
One or more munition carriage may be movable along a substantially straight path. Alternatively or additionally, one or more munitions carriage may be movable along a curved path .
In the first position, the munition carriage may be in a retracted state (for example, located within a munitions container main body). In the second position, the munition carriage may be in an extended state (for example, at least partially extending from a munitions container main body).
One or more munition carriage may be slidable between the first position and the second position. One or more munitions carriage may be slidably supported. One or more munitions carriage may be provided with a runner or track which is slidably mounted relative to one or more supporting members which support the munitions carriage and which facilitate sliding (e.g. low friction runner, low friction bar, wheels or rollers). One or more munition carriage may be provided with wheels or rollers which are mounted relative to one or more supporting members which support the munition carriage and which facilitate sliding (e.g. runner or a track).
At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each munition carriage is elongate. If the container is elongate, the longitudinal axis of at least one munition carriage is optionally substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container. The elongate munition carriage is optionally movable in a direction parallel to its longitudinal axis.
The container may comprise one or more plugs typically provided at or near to an end of a berth. More than one berth and optionally each berth may be provided with one or more plugs. The plug may be shaped to conform to the shape of an adjacent munition. For example, if the projectile surface is adjacent the plug, the plug will typically have a corresponding shape e.g. a plug will typically have a concave shape adjacent to a convex projectile. In use, a force is typically applied to the plug, thereby moving an adjacent munition in a safe manner. The plug may, for example, form a seal against adjacent surfaces of the container, thereby inhibiting the passage of air therepast. This facilitates the use of a pressurised gas (typically air) to apply a force to the plug, thereby moving the plug and an adjacent munition. The container may be provided with one or more passages through which may be supplied air to a surface of a plug. One or more passages may be provided in a cover, such as an end cap. For example, each berth may be provided with one or more air-transmissive passage, thus enabling all munitions to be moved using pressurised air. Likewise, each berth may be provided with an end cap provided with such a passage.
The munitions container may be suitable for storing at least 4, at least 6, optionally up to 8, optionally up to 12 and optionally up to 20 munitions.
The munitions container may optionally have a generally rectilinear footprint. The munitions container may optionally have a generally square or rectangular footprint.
The munitions container may optionally have a footprint of at least 0.3m2, optionally at least 0.6m2, optionally at least lm2, optionally at least 2m2, optionally at least 3m2, optionally at least 4m2, optionally up to 2m2, optionally up to 3m2, optionally up to 4m2 and optionally up to 6m2. The munitions container may optionally have a height and/or width of at least 0.5m, optionally lm and optionally up to 1.5m.The munitions container may optionally have a length of at least 0.5m, optionally at least lm, optionally up to 2m, optionally up to 3m and optionally up to 4m.
If the height of the container is "h", then the centre of gravity of the container (in the absence of any munitions) is at a height of optionally less than h/2, optionally less than h/3 and optionally less than h/4.
The container may comprise one or more means for securing the container to a container support. This means for securing the container to a container support may be the same as the means for securing the container in a stacked arrangement mentioned above. The one or more means for securing the container to a container support may comprise one or means for locking the container to the container support. The one or more means for locking the container to the container support may be operable between locked and unlocked states. The one or more means for locking the container to the container support may be biased into the locked state, for example, by a biasing means, such as a spring.
The container may comprise a latching member operable to move the one or more means for locking the container to a container support from a locked state to an unlocked state. The latching member may be located within the central cavity (if present).
According to a second aspect of the invention there is also provided a marine vessel magazine comprising: at least one container storage region for the stowage of at least one munitions container comprising a plurality of munitions stored in other than an upright orientation, a container movement apparatus for moving a munitions container from a first, stowed position to a second, unloading position within the magazine; and an unloading apparatus located at the unloading position for removing one or more munitions from the munitions container when the munitions container is in the second, unloading position, the unloading apparatus being capable of removing one or more munition which is stored in other than an upright orientation.
For the avoidance of doubt, "upright" is indicative of orientation in the absence of any pitching or rolling of the vessel. Those skilled in the art will realise that the munitions container is not an essential part of the magazine of the present invention, rather that the container storage region is suitable for the stowage of such a munitions container .
The unloading apparatus is optionally operable to remove one or more munition stored tilted from an upright orientation by at least 30 degrees, at least 60 degrees, at least 80 degrees and optionally at least 85 degrees. The unloading apparatus is optionally operable to remove one or more munitions stored in a substantially horizontal orientation.
The unloading apparatus may be operable to slide one or more munitions from a munitions container.
The at least one container storage region may comprise a plurality of stowage positions for at least one munitions container. The magazine may comprise more than one storage region for the stowage of at least one munitions container, the storage regions optionally being mutually spaced. The magazine may comprise at least two storage regions, one storage region being located above another storage region. The use of containers which store munitions in a generally horizontal orientation facilitate having one storage region above another.
The magazine may comprise one or more delivery regions for the receipt of at least one munitions container into the magazine. The one or more delivery regions may comprise one or more container support for supporting a container. The one or more container support may be movable in the delivery region.
The container movement apparatus may be operable to move at least one munitions container from the delivery region to a stowed position and/or to an unloading position. In this connection, the one or more container support may be movable in the delivery region from an initial, containerreceiving position to a position in which the munitions container is accessible by the container movement apparatus.
The one or more delivery region is typically separate from the storage region(s) and the unloading position (s) .
At least one (optionally more than one and optionally each) container optionally comprises a movement interface for receiving one or more tines of a forklift truck. This facilitates the movement of the container prior to loading onto the vessel. Optionally, a movement interface (other than that for receiving the tines of a forklift truck) may be provided for movement of the container using the movement interface .
The magazine may comprise more than one container movement apparatus and may comprise more than one unloading apparatus. For example, the magazine may comprise two unloading apparatus. One or more of the container movement apparatus may be operable to move a container to one or more of the unloading apparatus. For example, a magazine may comprise two container movement apparatus, each operable to move a munitions container to each of two unloading apparatus. The magazine may comprise a plurality of container storage regions, each associated with a container movement apparatus. Typically, a container movement apparatus is operable to access containers located in one particular storage region, but not another storage region. Each container movement apparatus may be operable to move containers from a delivery region to a storage region. One delivery region may be provided for more than one storage regions and more than one container movement apparatus. In this case, the magazine optionally comprises a means of transferring one or more containers between storage regions, such as a conveyor. Such a means of transferring one or more containers may be automated or manually operated.
At least one unloading apparatus is optionally operable to remove more than one munition from a munitions container at a time .
At least one container movement apparatus may be operable to move at least one munition container from the second, unloading position to a stowed position. This stowed position may optionally be the first position, but does not have to be.
At least one container movement apparatus may be operable to move a container between two stowage positions (e.g. to ensure timely access of munitions and to adjust weight distribution in the magazine). A container movement apparatus will typically be operable to access a plurality of, and optionally each, stowage position in a storage region.
The magazine may comprise a means for rotating a munition container when the container is at the unloading position .
The magazine may optionally comprise one or more munition containers. At least one, optionally more than one and optionally each of the munition containers, if present, may be provided with one or more munitions. One or more munitions containers (if present) may comprise the features described above in relation to the container of the first aspect of the present invention and the one or more munitions containers may be in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention.
If the magazine comprises a plurality of munitions containers, each for storing a plurality of munitions, each munitions container may be initially located at a first stowed position, at least one container movement apparatus being operable to move any one of the plurality of munitions containers from the respective first stowed position to the second, unloading position.
The magazine may comprise a plurality of container supports for supporting a container when the container is in a stowed position. One or more of the container supports may define a recess or aperture for the receipt of a container. One or more container or one or more of the container supports may be provided with a means for securing a container to a container support, typically a means for locking a container to a container support. The magazine may comprise a first plurality of container supports located above a second plurality of container supports. A plurality of container supports may be provided by a supporting framework, typically attached to the floor of the magazine. The supporting framework may be arranged to provide a first plurality of container supports located above a second plurality of container supports.
At least one and optionally each container movement apparatus may optionally comprise a means for engaging with the munitions container to allow a container to be lifted.
At least one and optionally each container movement apparatus may comprise a means for disengaging any lock provided between the container and a container support.
At least one (and optionally each) unloading apparatus may be operable to rotate a container. At least one and optionally each unloading apparatus may be operable to remove a closure provided on a container.
Optionally each unloading apparatus may be operable to remove one or more munition from the container. At least one and optionally each unloading apparatus may be operable to deliver one or more munition to a means for delivering unloaded munitions to a weapon.
The unloading apparatus may comprise at least one munition carriage for receiving and supporting at least one munition during its removal from the container. The munition carriage may be movable to a munition-receiving position. In the munition receiving position, the munition carriage may be adjacent to a munition container, or the munition carriage may extend at least partially into a munition container. In the munition-receiving position, the munition carriage is typically beneath the munition so that the munition carriage is either supporting the munition or the munition may be moved (typically by sliding) onto the carriage. The munition carriage may be operable to move one or more munitions to a means for delivering unloaded munitions to a weapon. The unloading apparatus may comprise more than one munition carriage, for example, in an array of carriages, one for each munition. Alternatively, the munition carriage may be movable to facilitate the unloading of any of the munitions in a container.
The munition carriage is typically elongate and is optionally adapted to receive a munition. The munition carriage is optionally provided with a curved surface to receive a curved surface of a munition. The munition carriage is optionally provided with one or more means for securing a munition, such as a strap or clamp. The munition carriage may be provided with an abutment for limiting the travel of a munition on the carriage. The munition carriage may be rotatable so as to change the tilt angle of any munition carried thereon.
The unloading apparatus may comprise a means for urging one or more munitions from a container. For example, the unloading apparatus may comprise a means for pushing or pulling one or more munitions from a container, typically in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the munition. The means for urging one or more munitions from a container may comprise a means for generating a positive or negative pressure. For example, a means for generating negative pressure may be used to suck one or more munitions from a container. A means for generating positive pressure (e.g. a source of gas above atmospheric pressure) may be used to push one or more munitions from a container. The unloading apparatus may, for example, comprise more than one means for urging one or more munitions from a container. For example, the unloading apparatus may comprise a plurality of gas outlets, each associated with a particular munition or container berth when used, each gas outlet being in gaseous communication with a source of pressurised gas. The unloading apparatus is optionally operable to operate only one outlet at a time. Alternatively, the unloading apparatus may comprise one means for urging a munition from a container, the means for urging a munition from a container being movable to facilitate the unloading of any munition in a container.
At least one and optionally each unloading apparatus may be operable to tilt a removed munition. For example, the unloading apparatus may be operable to tilt a munition into a more upright orientation i.e. so that the longitudinal axis of the munition is in a more upright orientation.
Those skilled in the art will realise that the weapon is not part of the magazine of the present aspect of invention .
According to a third aspect of the invention, there is also provided a marine vessel comprising a marine vessel magazine in accordance with the second aspect of the present invention.
The term "vessel" includes boats and ships, including (without limitation) aircraft carriers (for carrying fixed-wing and/or rotary wing aircraft), cruisers, destroyers, frigates, corvettes, patrol vessels, fast attack craft, missile boats, torpedo boats, minesweepers, minelayers, amphibious assault ships, landing craft and submarines.
According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is also provided a method of operating a marine vessel magazine, the method comprising: providing a munitions container containing a plurality of munitions at a first, stowed position in the marine vessel magazine, the munitions being stored in other than an upright orientation; moving the munitions container from the first, stowed position to a second, unloading position in the marine vessel magazine; and removing at least one munition from said container.
The method optionally comprises moving the munitions container from the second, unloading position to a stowed position, which may be the first, stowed position or may be a stowed position different from the first stowed position.
In the first stowed position, the munitions container may be stacked upon another munitions container. In the stowed position after having been moved to the unloading position, the munitions container may be stacked upon another munitions container. The step of removing at least one munition from said container may comprise removing only one munition from said container.
The method optionally comprises moving the unloaded munition from the magazine. This may optionally comprise delivering the unloaded munition to a weapon, typically located external to the magazine. The method optionally comprises delivering an unused munition from a weapon to the munitions container.
The method optionally comprises in the second, unloading position, moving the munitions container to position a particular munition for removal from the munitions container. This may comprise rotating the munitions container, for example.
The method may comprise providing a munition carriage. At least one of the containers may comprise a munition carriage. The munition carriage may have the features described above in relation to the munitions container of the first aspect of the present invention. Alternatively or additionally, the method may comprise providing an unloading apparatus for unloading munitions, the unloading apparatus comprising a munition carriage. The munition carriage of the unloading apparatus may comprise those features described above in relation to the magazine of the third aspect of the present invention.
The method may comprise tilting the unloaded munition.
The step of removing at least one munition from said container may comprise sliding the munition out of the container, optionally in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the munition. The step of removing at least one munition from said container may comprise pushing and/or pulling a munition from the container .
The step of removing at least one munition from a container may comprise applying a force to the bottom or top of the munition, for example, using positive and/or negative pressure .
The method optionally comprises providing a munitions container containing a plurality of munitions at a delivery position in the marine vessel magazine and moving the munitions container from the delivery position to the first, stowed position in the marine vessel magazine.
For the avoidance of doubt, "upright" is indicative of orientation in the absence of any pitching or rolling of the vessel.
The container may be arranged to store munitions tilted from an upright orientation by at least 30 degrees, at least 60 degrees, at least 80 degrees and optionally at least 85 degrees. The container may be arranged to store munitions in a substantially horizontal orientation. For the avoidance of doubt, "upright" and "horizontal" are indicative of orientation in the absence of any pitching or rolling of the vessel.
At least one (optionally more than one and optionally each) container optionally comprises a movement interface for receiving one or more tines of a forklift truck. This facilitates the movement of the container prior to loading onto the vessel and movement of the container on the deck of the ship. Optionally, a movement interface (other than that for receiving the tines of a forklift truck) may be provided for lifting of the container using the movement interface.
The container used in the method of the fourth aspect of the invention may comprise any of those features described above in relation to the container of the first aspect of the present invention. For example, the movement interface for receiving one or more tines of a forklift truck may be the first movement interface of the container of the first aspect of the present invention. Likewise, a movement interface (other than that for receiving the tines of a forklift truck) may be the second movement interface of the container of the first aspect of the present invention.
The method of the fourth aspect of the present invention may comprise those features described above in relation to the magazine of the second aspect of the present invention .
The method optionally comprises providing at least one munitions container comprising a plurality of munitions external to the magazine and moving the at least one container into the magazine to a stowed position. No munitions are removed from the container in moving the container from external to the magazine to a stowed position in the magazine. The stowed position may be the position from which the container is moved to the unloading position. Alternatively, the container may be moved from one stowed position to another stowed position before being moved to the unloading position. The method may comprise, external to the vessel, moving at least one munitions container using a forklift and optionally moving the at least one munition container inside the magazine using a movement interface other than that for receiving the tines of a forklift truck.
It will of course be appreciated that features described in relation to one aspect of the present invention may be incorporated into other aspects of the present invention. For example, the method of the fourth aspect of the invention may incorporate any of the features described with reference to the munitions container of the first aspect of the invention and vice versa. Furthermore, the method of the fourth aspect of the present invention may incorporate any of the features described above with reference to the magazine of the second aspect of the present invention and vice versa.
Description of the Drawings
Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings of which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of an illustrative munitions container;
Figure 2A is a side-on view of the munitions container of Figure 1;
Figure 2B is an exploded view of the clamps and supports used to retain a munition in place in the container of Fig. 2A;
Figure 3 is a plan view of the munitions container of Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of a further illustrative container;
Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of an illustrative naval vessel's magazine; and
Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of part of the magazine of Fig. 5 showing the relationship between the container and the shock raft in which the container is mounted in the magazine;
Figure 7 is a perspective view of an example of a munitions container in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 8 is a schematic partially cut-away side-on view of the munitions container of Fig. 7;
Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view of the munitions container of Figs. 7 and 8 being unloaded in an example of a magazine and method in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 10 is a perspective view of a further example of a munitions container in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 11 is a schematic partially cut-away side-on view of the munitions container of Fig. 10 being unloaded in a further example of a magazine and method in accordance with the present invention; and
Figure 12 is a schematic side-on view of part of an example of a magazine in accordance with the present invention .
Detailed Description
An illustrative example of a munitions container will now be described with reference to Figs. 1, 2A, 2B and 3.
The munitions container is generally denoted by reference numeral 1. The munitions container 1 comprises eight elongate compartments 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 arranged around a central supporting structure 16. Each compartment is capable of storing an elongate munition M in a generally upright manner. In this case, the munition is a 4.5inch calibre shell for a naval 4.5 inch gun.
Each compartment 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 is provided with a hinged door, two of which 10 and 11, are labelled. Each door 10, 11 is hinged to allow access to the munition M from the side of the container. Each door is provided with two sprung bolts (which are shown as 21, 22 for door 10) for keeping the door shut when desired. The sprung bolts are operable using latch mechanisms provided in each door. Latch mechanisms 24, 25 are shown for door 11. Each compartment 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 is provided with a casing (one of which is shown 23) in which the respective munition is located.
The casings 23 provide partitions between munitions, thereby reducing the risk of fratricidal explosions in the unlikely event that any of the munitions should detonate in the container .
Figures 2A and 2B show how each munition is secured in place in a respective compartment. Munitions Ml and M2 are located in compartments 2 and 3 respectively. Each of munitions Ml and M2 is supported on a respective foot mount 59, 60. The foot mount 59, 60 raises the bottom of the munition; this raising of the bottom of the munition, coupled with a slot 69, 70 provided in each foot mount 59, 60 permits an unloading system to access and collect a munition. Each munition Ml, M2 is held in place by a plurality of spring clamps 51-58. The spring clamps 51-58 are sufficiently strong to hold the munition in place, but allow an unloading system to remove the munition. Support plates 71-74 are provided to help support the munition. The support plates are provided with recesses 61-68 which are shaped to receive the munition and inhibit unwanted movement of the munition. Each recess 61-68 is provided with a protective material (such as foam, sponge or rubber) which reduces the risk of the surface of the munition being damaged and which assists in resisting unwanted movement of the munition. The protective material also reduces any noise (e.g. rattling) associated with unwanted movement. Each door 10, 11 is provided with corresponding support plates 171-174 comprising similar recesses, the support plates provided on the doors co-operating with support plates 71-74 when the doors are closed to effectively clamp the munition in place to inhibit unwanted movement of the munition.
Referring to Figures 1 and 2A, a pallet portion 12 is provided at the bottom of the container 1. The pallet portion 12 is provided with two parallel slots 13, 14 which extend through the pallet portion 12 and which allow lifting of the container using a forklift equipped with lifting tines. This facilitates movement of the container 1 and the munitions therein outside of the magazine.
The pallet portion 12 is typically relatively heavy and this may be achieved by making the pallet portion solid (i.e. not hollow). This ensures that the centre of gravity of the container 1 is relatively low, increasing stability which may be desirable in a naval vessel which is subject to the movement of the seas.
The pallet portion 12 is also provided with four locking projections 17-20, one on each face of the pallet portion 12. The locking projections 17-20 are typically in the form of spring-loaded bolts or latches. The locking projections allow the container to be secured when stowed in a vessel's magazine. The locking projections 17-20 are operable from a default condition in which the projections are extended as in Figures 1 and 2 to a retracted condition in which the projections are retracted inwards. In the default condition, the locking projections 17-20 extend into apertures provided in a supporting structure, thereby securing the container 1 to the supporting structure. Once the locking projections are retracted, the container 1 may be removed from the supporting structure (thereby permitting movement of the container, for example, to a munitions unloading station, as will be described below).
Operation of the locking projections 17-20 will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 1 and 3. The container 1 comprises an unlocking mechanism 80 coupled to locking protections 17-20. The unlocking mechanism 80 comprises rods 81-84, each of which is coupled to a respective locking projection 17-20. Each rod 81-84 is also operatively coupled to an unlocking member 85. The unlocking member is movable so as to cause each locking projection to be retracted. For example, the unlocking member may be rotated so as to cause rods 81-84 to move generally inwards, thereby retracting the locking protections 17-20. Alternatively, the unlocking member may be pressed downwards, in which case the unlocking mechanism may comprise a cam (not shown), the downwards movement of the unlocking member being associated with rotational movement caused by the cam, the rotational movement of the unlocking member causing movement of the rods 81-84 and retraction of locking projections 17-20. Unlocking member 85 is accessible from the top of the container 1 as shown in Figure 3.
The container 1 is provided with a movement interface located near the top of the container 1 which permits the lifting of the container in a vessel's magazine. The container 1 is provided with four apertures, two of which are labelled 15a, 15b. In use, latches or other projections provided by a lifting apparatus are inserted into the respective apertures 15a, 15b to provide a firm connection between the lifting apparatus and the container so that the container can be moved.
Each aperture 15a, 15b is provided in a surface of a central supporting structure 16. The central supporting structure 16 comprises four substantial steel sheets attached to one another so as to form a substantially square cylindrical configuration. The supporting structure 16 is attached to pallet portion 12. A further illustrative example of a munitions container is shown in Fig. 4. The container is denoted generally by reference numeral 101 and comprises eight compartments (102— 109), each for the storage of a single munition. The container 101 is very similar to container 1 described above in relation to Figures 1, 2A, 2B and 3, but container 101 is provided with doors on the top of the container 101, one of which is labelled 110.
An advantage of the containers of Figs. 1, 2A, 2B, 3 and 4 is that they may be loaded into a vessel's magazine and moved around the magazine without removing the munitions from the container until it is desired to remove the munitions for the purpose of providing a munition to a weapon.
An illustrative example of a vessel's magazine and a method of operating a ship's magazine will now be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6. The magazine is denoted generally by reference numeral 500, and may be regarded as having first 501 and second 502 munitions storage regions either side of a central unloading station 503. A transfer region 580 is provided into which containers are delivered into the magazine 500. The transfer region is provided with a container support 590 which is movable along a rail 585. The container support 590 may be moved into a position adjacent to first munitions storage region 501 and into a position adjacent to second munitions storage region 502. Multiple containers 1 are provided in each storage region 501, 502. Referring to Figure 6, each container 1 is stowed in a shock raft 550. Shock raft 550 is attached to the floor of the magazine 500 via several steel rings (not shown) which help damp any forces transmitted from the vessel to the containers and therefore the munitions. Shock raft 550 is provided with ten positions 551-560 for the stowage of containers 1. In each position 551-560 the container is locked to the shock raft 550 by virtue of the locking latches or bolts described above in relation to Figures 1, 2A, 2B and 3.
The magazine 500 is provided with two container movement apparatus 509, 510, each of which is associated with a respective container storage region 501, 502. Container movement apparatus 509 will now be described. Container movement apparatus 509 comprises an overhead container hoist 514. The container hoist 514 is mounted in a short frame 513 that permits movement of the hoist in one particular direction. The short frame 513 is mounted for movement between rails 511, 512 in a second direction. The hoist 514 can therefore be moved in two orthogonal directions and can be used to access any of the containers 1 stored in the first container storage region 501. The short frame 513 and rails 511, 512 are arranged so that any container 1 picked-up by the hoist 514 can be moved to either of the unloading positions 505, 506. The short frame 513 and rails 511, 512 are arranged so that the container movement apparatus 509 can access a container provided on container support 590 and moved to the part of the transfer region 580 adjacent to the first container storage region 501. Operation of the hoist 514 will now be described. Hoist 514 is moved into a desired position above a container 1. Hoist 514 provides a lifting arrangement comprising four projections (not shown), each of which is inserted into a respective aperture 15a, 15b provided in container 1 (see Figure 1). The hoist also disengages the locking projections 17-20 so that the container 1 may be removed from its stowed position in shock raft 550. Once the locking projections 17-20 have been retracted, the hoist 514 lifts the container 1 from the shock raft 550. The hoist 514 and container 1 are then moved to one of the unloading positions 505, 506. At the unloading position, one or more of the munitions contained within the container are removed. Firstly, if a compartment is provided with a door, then the door is moved to enable access to the munition inside the respective compartment. The opening of the door may be performed manually or by the unloader 530, 540. The unloader may be a suitably-programmed robot arm with 6 degrees of freedom. The munition is then removed from the container by the unloader 530, 540. The unloader 530, 540 is provided with a mechanism (not shown) which provides a support (not shown) under the base of the munition and also provides lateral restraint to the munition, and then the munition is removed. The removed munition may then be stored locally or immediately transferred to the weapon (typically located above the magazine). The unloader 530, 540 may remove move than one munition from the container 1. For example, referring to Figure 2A, the unloader 530, 540 may remove munitions Ml and M2 from their respective compartments. In order to remove munitions in other compartments, a turntable (not shown) is provided at unloading positions 505, 506 so that the container 1 can be rotated appropriately to present compartments to the unloader 530, 540 for unloading. Once the desired number of munitions has been removed the container 1 may be moved back to a stowed position in the first storage region 501. The container 1 need not be moved back to the same stowed position from which it was collected by the container movement apparatus 509.
Container movement apparatus 510 operates in essentially the same manner as container movement apparatus 509. Container movement apparatus 510 comprises a container hoist 523 mounted on a short frame which is movable along two rails, thereby allowing hoist to access all containers stored within the second storage region 502, a container provided on a container support 590 at the part of the transfer region 580 adjacent to the second storage region 502 and to deliver containers to unloading positions 507, 508 .
The illustrative examples above describe a munitions container, a magazine and a method of operating a magazine in which the munitions are stored in a substantially upright orientation. The present invention relates to a munitions container, a magazine and a method of operating a magazine in which the munitions are stored in an orientation which is not upright. The munitions container, magazine and method of the present invention share many features of the illustrative container, magazine and method described in relation to Figs. 1 to 6, and therefore the following descriptions of the examples of the container, magazine and method of the present invention will refer, inter alia, to Figs . 1 to 6.
An example of a container in accordance with the present invention will now be described with reference to Fig. 7. The munitions container 801 comprises a main body 802 which has a generally rectangular cuboid shape. The container is provided with a lifting interface provided by slots (not shown) provided in pallet regions 803a, b which enables the container to be lifted by a fork lift or pallet truck. The container comprises a second lifting interface 804 which facilitates lifting of the container from above. This second lifting interface may be the same as the lifting interface described above in relation to the container of Figs. 1 to 3, with apertures provided in the container for the receipt of latches or other projections. The container comprises nine berths 808a-i, arranged in a 3x3 array, each berth being arranged for the storage of a single munition in a substantially horizontal orientation. Partitions (not labelled) are provided between adjacent berths. The longitudinal axis of each munition (one of which is labelled M in Fig. 8) is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container 801. Referring to Fig. 9, each munition M is secured in the container by an end cap (one of which is labelled, 812a) and an end cap-plug arrangement (one of which is labelled, 809a, 810a), with the bottom of the munition M contacting end cap 812a, and the tip of the munition contacting plug 810a. Plug 810a is shaped to receive the tip of the munition M. Plug 810a also forms a seal against the adjacent surfaces of the berth 808a to inhibit passage therepast of gas. Furthermore, a passage 811a is provided through end cap 809a, allowing pressurised gas to be directed onto plug 810a, thereby facilitating removal of the munition M as will be described below.
Munitions container 801 further comprises four locking interfaces (three of which are visible in Fig. 8 as 805a-c), each located at a bottom corner of the container 801. These interfaces each comprise a latching mechanism (not shown) which engages automatically when placed into a stowage position in the magazine in a manner substantially the same as described above in relation to Figs. 1 to 6, thereby inhibiting unwanted movement of the container once stowed. The latching mechanisms may be actuated using the latch actuation interface 806a, b and release cables 807a, b. the release cables associated with latch actuation interface 806b are not shown. Furthermore, munitions container 801 comprises four securing arrangements 899a-d located on the top of the container main body 802. Those four securing arrangements 899a-d are configured to co-operate with locking interfaces 805a-c which are provided on an adjacent, stacked container, thereby locking the stacked containers together .
An example of a magazine and a method of operating a magazine in accordance with the present invention will now be described with reference to Figs. 5, 6, 9 and 12. The example of the magazine of the present invention is very similar to the magazine described above in relation to Figs. 5 and 6.
The exemplary magazine in accordance with the present invention comprising first 501 and second 502 munitions storage regions either side of a central unloading station. A transfer region 580 is provided into which containers are delivered into the magazine. The transfer region is provided with a container support 590 which is movable along a rail 585. The container support 590 in the magazine of the present invention has a rectangular footprint, as determined by the footprint of the container. The container support 590 may be moved into a position adjacent to first munitions storage region 501 and into a position adjacent to second munitions storage region 502. Multiple containers 801 (not shown in Figs. 5 and 6) are provided in each storage region 501, 502.
Shock rafts 550 are provided in each storage region 501, 502 for the receipt of containers 801. Each shock raft 550 is attached to the floor of the magazine via several steel rings (not shown) which help damp any forces transmitted from the vessel to the containers and therefore the munitions. Each shock raft 550 is provided with positions for the stowage of containers 801. Each shock raft stowage position has a rectangular footprint to correspond to the rectangular footprint of container 801. In each shock raft stowage position the container is locked to the shock raft 550 by virtue of the locking interfaces 805a-c located at the bottom corner of the container 801. The locking interfaces are the same as the latches or bolts described above in relation to the container of Figures 1, 2A, 2B and 3 .
As suggested above, the magazine of the present invention further differs from the illustrative magazine of Figs. 5 and 6 in that magazine containers can be readily stacked in the magazine of the present invention. Fig. 12 shows two containers 2001, 2002 stacked one upon the other. Container 2001 is secured to a shock raft 2003 substantially as described above via the locking interfaces 805a, c located at the bottom corners of container 2001. Container 2002 is locked to container 2001 by the co-operation of the locking interfaces 805a, c provided at the bottom corners of container 2002 and the securing arrangements 899a, c provided on the top corners of container 2001.
The exemplary magazine in accordance with the present invention is provided with two container movement apparatus 509, 510, each of which is associated with a respective container storage region 501, 502. Container movement apparatus 509 will now be described. Container movement apparatus 509 comprises an overhead container hoist 514. The container hoist 514 is mounted in a short frame 513 that permits movement of the hoist in one particular direction. The short frame 513 is mounted for movement between rails 511, 512 in a second direction. The hoist 514 can therefore be moved in two orthogonal directions and can be used to access any of the containers 801 stored in the first container storage region 501, so long as access is not inhibited by a container stacked upon it. The short frame 513 and rails 511, 512 are arranged so that any container 801 picked-up by the hoist 514 can be moved to either of the unloading positions 505, 506. The short frame 513 and rails 511, 512 are arranged so that the container movement apparatus 509 can access a container provided on container support 590 and moved to the part of the transfer region 580 adjacent to the first container storage region 501.
Operation of the hoist 514 will now be described.
Hoist 514 is moved into a desired position above a container, in this case 2002. Hoist 514 provides a lifting arrangement 3004 comprising four projections (not shown), each of which is inserted into a respective aperture (not shown) provided in lifting interface 804. Unlocking mechanisms 3006, 3007 disengage the locking projections provided at locking interfaces 805a, c so that the container 2002 may be removed from its stowed position on top of container 2001. Once the locking interfaces have been disengaged, the hoist 514 lifts the container 2002 from container 2001. The hoist 514 and container 2002 are then moved to one of the unloading positions 505, 506.
At the unloading position, one or more of the munitions contained within the container are removed as will now be described with further reference to Fig. 9.
At the unloading position the container 801 is placed on a positioning table 830 which can move up, down, left, right, backwards and forwards to present munitions for removal. The positioning table may also rotate. One or more munitions is removed from the container 801 using an unloading apparatus which comprises a munition carriage 840. The munition carriage has a generally hemicylindrical shape to receive a cylindrical munition M. The munition carriage 840 comprises securing bands 841, 842 for securing a munition M to the carriage and a stop 842 for limiting the movement of a munition along munition carriage 840. In use, munition carriage 840 is placed adjacent to (but slightly lower than) one of the end caps of the container (for example, 812a - see Fig. 9). The end cap (e.g. 812a) is then removed, typically by an automated system (such as a robot), not shown. A gas supply apparatus 820 then supplies pressurised air through a passage (e.g. 811a) in one of the end caps (e.g. 809a) (best seen in Fig. 9). The pressurised air impinges on plug 810a which is moved by the pressurised air. Movement of the plug 810a moves munition M onto munition carriage 840. Once the munition has been received by carriage 840, the clamps 841, 842 are used to secure the munition to the carriage 840. The munition is then typically tilted to an upright position to be delivered to munition handling apparatus which is associated with a weapon. The munitions carriage 840 is typically associated with a robot arm (not shown) which is a 5 or 6 axis robot arm configured to pick-up and handle the munition, move the picked-up munition in three different translational directions and to change the tilt angle of the picked-up munition.
Gas supply apparatus 820 comprises a movable pressurised gas outlet (not shown) which is movable up, down, left, right, backwards and forwards so that the outlet can provide pressurised air to any of berths 808a-i. Likewise, munition carriage 840 is movable up, down, left, right, backwards and forwards so that it can receive the munition stored in any of the berths 808a-i.
Once the desired number of munitions has been removed the container 801 may be moved back to a stowed position in the first storage region 501. The container 801 need not be moved back to the same stowed position from which it was collected by the container movement apparatus 509.
Container movement apparatus 510 operates in essentially the same manner as container movement apparatus 509. Container movement apparatus 510 comprises a container hoist 523 mounted on a short frame which is movable along two rails, thereby allowing hoist to access all containers stored within the second storage region 502, a container provided on a container support 590 at the part of the transfer region 580 adjacent to the second storage region 502 and to deliver containers to unloading positions 507, 508 . A further example of a munitions container in accordance with the present invention will now be described with reference to Figs. 10 and 11. The container 901 comprises a container main body 902 which is generally rectangular cuboidal in shape. The container is provided with a lifting interface provided by slots (not shown) provided in pallet regions 903a, b so that the container may be lifted by a fork lift or pallet truck. The container comprises a second lifting interface 904 which facilitates lifting of the container from above, the second lifting interface being substantially the same as that described above in relation to the container 801. The container comprises nine berths 908a-i, arranged in a 3x3 array, each berth being arranged for the storage of a single munition in a substantially horizontal orientation. Partitions (not labelled) are provided between adjacent berths. The longitudinal axis of each munition is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container 901. Referring to Figs. 10 and 11, each munition M is located on a munition carriage (three of which are labelled 940c, f, i). Each munition carriage is mounted for sliding movement in and out of the container main body 902. Each end of the container 901 is provided with an end plate 909a, 909b. End plate 909b is omitted from Fig. 10 so that the berths 908a-i are visible. End plate 909a is hingedly connected to the container main body 901 so that end plate 909a can be moved from a closed position in which the munition berths 908a-i are inaccessible to a lowered position in which munition berths 908a-i are accessible.
As with munitions container 801, munitions container 901 comprises four locking interfaces (three of which are visible in Fig. 10 as 905a-c), each located at a bottom corner of the container 901. These interfaces each comprise a latching mechanism (not shown) which engages automatically when placed into a stowage position in the magazine [refer to text above], thereby inhibiting unwanted movement of the container once stowed. The latching mechanisms may be actuated using the latch actuation interfaces 906a, b and release cables 907a, b (the release cables associated with latch actuation interface 906b are not shown). As with container 801 described above, munitions container 901 comprises four securing arrangements 999a-d located on the top of the container main body 902. Those four securing arrangements 999a-d are configured to co-operate with locking interfaces 905a-c which are provided on an adjacent, stacked container, thereby locking the stacked containers together . A further example of a magazine and a method of operating a magazine in accordance with the present invention will now be described with reference to Figs. 10 and 11. The storage and movement of the containers 901 are essentially the same as those described above in relation to container 801.
When the container 901 is in an unloading position, an automated system comprising a robot arm 1001 moves end plate 909a to allow access to berths 908a-i. The robot arm engages one of the munition carriages and slides the respective carriage from the main body of the container. Once the munition carriage has been extended, the robot arm engages the munition, for example, so that it is securely held. Two clamps (not shown) are used to engage the munition. The munition is then tilted to an upright position to be delivered to munition handling apparatus which is associated with a weapon.
Robot arm 1001 is a 5 or 6 axis robot arm configured to pick-up and handle the munition, move the picked-up munition in three different translational directions and to change the tilt angle of the picked-up munition.
Both containers 801 and 901 are provided with latching mechanisms 899a-d, 999a-d, at each of the top four corners of the container. The latching mechanisms provided on the top of the containers are arranged to co-operate with the latching mechanisms (some of which are labelled 805a-c, 905a-c) provided on the bottom of adjacent containers, thereby permitting containers to be stacked one upon another .
The container, magazine and method of the present invention permit the munitions to be retained within the same container at all times apart from when a munition is to be removed for delivery to a weapon. For example, the munitions container is moved into the magazine and into a stowed position without removing any of the munitions from the container. This reduces the amount of handling required and enables the quick and safe transfer of munitions into and within a magazine. The storage of multiple munitions in containers simplifies magazine architecture, and facilitates simpler handling of munitions both on board the vessel and off the vessel. Furthermore, the use of the container enables the munitions to be kept in a horizontal orientation at all times (subject to any pitching movement of the vessel) .
Whilst the present invention has been described and illustrated with reference to particular embodiments, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the invention lends itself to many different variations not specifically illustrated herein. By way of example only, certain possible variations will now be described.
The examples of the present invention show a munitions container having a rectangular footprint. Whilst this may be desirable in certain circumstances, containers having different footprints may be used.
The example above describes the use of a shock raft. A deck raft without shock mounting may be used instead of a shock raft.
The example above describes the use of two container movement apparatus. A single container movement apparatus may be used. Alternatively, more than two container movement apparatus may be used.
Those skilled in the art will realise that the munitions container may be used for different ordnance than that shown.
The examples above show a munitions container with an arrangement which allows the container to be lifted and moved around a vessel magazine. Other lifting arrangements are possible, such as mountings being provided on the sides and/or top of the container.
The examples above demonstrate how the munitions container may be attached to the vessel for stowage. Those skilled in the art will realise that other stowage arrangements are possible.
Arrangements other than that shown for moving a munitions container are possible. For example, the arrangement for moving a munitions container does not have to be mounted overhead.
Those skilled in the art will also realise that other munitions unloading arrangements are possible.
Where in the foregoing description, integers or elements are mentioned which have known, obvious or foreseeable equivalents, then such equivalents are herein incorporated as if individually set forth. Reference should be made to the claims for determining the true scope of the present invention, which should be construed so as to encompass any such equivalents. It will also be appreciated by the reader that integers or features of the invention that are described as preferable, advantageous, convenient or the like are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent claims. Moreover, it is to be understood that such optional integers or features, whilst of possible benefit in some embodiments of the invention, may not be desirable, and may therefore be absent, in other embodiments .
Claims (32)
1. A munitions container for the storage and transportation of a plurality of elongate munitions, the munitions container comprising a first movement interface facilitating the movement of the container using the first movement interface, the container comprising one or more berths for the storage of munitions, the one or more berths being arranged for storing munitions in other than an upright orientation .
2 . A munitions container according to claim 1 arranged to store munitions tilted from an upright orientation by at least 80 degrees.
3. A munitions container according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the container is configured to be stackable .
4 . A munitions container according to claim 3 wherein the container comprises means for securing said container when in a stacked configuration.
5. A munitions container according to claim 3 or claim 4 wherein the container is provided with a first securing arrangement for cooperating with a corresponding securing arrangement provided on an adjacent (stacked) container.
6. A munitions container according to claim 5 comprising a first securing arrangement and a second securing arrangement, the first securing arrangement for cooperating with a second securing arrangement on an adjacent, stacked container, and the second securing arrangement for cooperating with a first securing arrangement provided on an adjacent, stacked container.
7. A munitions container according to claim 6, the first securing arrangement being associated with the bottom of the container and the second securing arrangement being associated with the top of the container .
8. A munitions container according to any preceding claim comprising one or more munition carriage for supporting and moving at least one munition, at least one or more munitions carriage being moveable from a first position in which the at least one munition supported by the munitions carriage is inaccessible and to a second position in which the at least one munition supported by the munitions carriage is accessible.
9. A munitions container according to claim 8 wherein in the first position, the munition carriage is in a retracted state, and in the second position, the munition carriage is in an extended state.
10. A munitions container according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein one or more munition carriage is slidable between the first position and the second position.
11. A munitions container according to any of claims 8 to 10 wherein at least one munition carriage is elongate, the longitudinal axis of the at least one munition carriage is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container.
12. A munitions container according to any preceding claim comprising one or more plugs provided at or near to an end of a berth, the plug being shaped to conform to the shape of an adjacent munition.
13. A munitions container according to claim 12 wherein the plug forms a seal against adjacent surfaces of the container, thereby inhibiting the passage of air therepast.
14. A munitions container according to claim 13 comprising one or more passages through which may be supplied air to a surface of a plug.
15. A munitions container according to any preceding claim in which the first movement interface is for receiving one or more tines of a forklift truck.
16. A munitions container according to any preceding claim in which the first movement interface is provided at or proximate to the bottom of the container .
17. A munitions container according to any preceding claim comprising a second movement interface facilitating the movement of the container using the second movement interface.
18. A munitions container according to claim 17 in which the second movement interface is provided at or proximate to the top of the container to facilitate lifting of the container from above using an overhead lifting system.
19. A munitions container according to claim 17 or claim 18 in which the container is provided with a supporting structure and the supporting structure is provided with the second movement interface.
20. A munitions container according to claim 19 in which the supporting structure is associated with a central region of the container.
21. A munitions container according to any of claims 17 to 20, the second movement interface being provided by one or more projections and/or apertures for engagement with corresponding projections or apertures provided on a lifting apparatus.
22. A munitions container according to claim 21 in which the one or more projections and/or apertures face substantially inwards.
23. A munitions container according to any preceding claim in which at least one berth comprises a compartment for the storage of one or more munition, the compartment being at least partially separated from one or more adjacent berths.
24. A munitions container according to claim 23 in which the compartment is at least partially separated from one or more adjacent berths by a partition for reducing the risk of an unwanted munition explosion causing the unwanted detonation of nearby munitions.
25. A munitions container according to any preceding claim comprising from 4 to 20 berths.
26. A munitions container according to any preceding claim in which at least one berth is provided with at least one munition retainer for securing a munition.
27. A munitions container according to claim 26 in which at least one berth is provided with a plurality of munition retainers for securing a munition.
28. A munitions container according to any preceding claim comprising one or more munitions.
29. A munitions container according to any preceding claim for carrying munitions having a calibre of from 50mm to 180mm.
30. A munitions container according to any preceding claim for carrying munitions having a length of at least 500mm.
31. A munitions container according to any preceding claim comprising a top, a bottom and one or more sides, one or more berths being accessible from an end of the container.
32. A munitions container according to any preceding claim comprising one or more closures for inhibiting access to one or more munitions.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB1713594.8A GB2551455B (en) | 2015-10-22 | 2015-10-22 | Munitions container, marine vessel magazine, marine vessel and method of operating the same |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB1518753.7A GB2543557B (en) | 2015-10-22 | 2015-10-22 | Marine vessel magazine, marine vessel and method of operating the same |
GB1713594.8A GB2551455B (en) | 2015-10-22 | 2015-10-22 | Munitions container, marine vessel magazine, marine vessel and method of operating the same |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
GB201713594D0 GB201713594D0 (en) | 2017-10-11 |
GB2551455A true GB2551455A (en) | 2017-12-20 |
GB2551455B GB2551455B (en) | 2020-02-19 |
Family
ID=60037260
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
GB1713594.8A Active GB2551455B (en) | 2015-10-22 | 2015-10-22 | Munitions container, marine vessel magazine, marine vessel and method of operating the same |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
GB (1) | GB2551455B (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN110697453A (en) * | 2019-10-30 | 2020-01-17 | 中船华南船舶机械有限公司 | Filling device and filling method between wharfs and ships |
Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4974492A (en) * | 1989-01-17 | 1990-12-04 | Wegmann & Co. Gmbh | Ammunition magazine |
US7878101B2 (en) * | 2006-08-10 | 2011-02-01 | Krauss-Maffei Wegmann Gmbh & Co. Kg | Weapon storage and loading system with rocket launcher and ammunition compartment for storing rocket containers |
GB2525672A (en) * | 2014-05-02 | 2015-11-04 | Babcock Integrated Technology Ltd | Munitions container, marine vessel magazine, marine vessel and method of operating the same |
-
2015
- 2015-10-22 GB GB1713594.8A patent/GB2551455B/en active Active
Patent Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4974492A (en) * | 1989-01-17 | 1990-12-04 | Wegmann & Co. Gmbh | Ammunition magazine |
US7878101B2 (en) * | 2006-08-10 | 2011-02-01 | Krauss-Maffei Wegmann Gmbh & Co. Kg | Weapon storage and loading system with rocket launcher and ammunition compartment for storing rocket containers |
GB2525672A (en) * | 2014-05-02 | 2015-11-04 | Babcock Integrated Technology Ltd | Munitions container, marine vessel magazine, marine vessel and method of operating the same |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN110697453A (en) * | 2019-10-30 | 2020-01-17 | 中船华南船舶机械有限公司 | Filling device and filling method between wharfs and ships |
CN110697453B (en) * | 2019-10-30 | 2021-07-09 | 中船华南船舶机械有限公司 | Filling device and filling method between wharfs and ships |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
GB2551455B (en) | 2020-02-19 |
GB201713594D0 (en) | 2017-10-11 |
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