| CRANE-101975 | |
| The need for this invention arose because there were no existing methods of integrating a large caliber weapon onto an aircraft, such as a helicopter. In helicopters, such systems are limited to specific machine gun models and are often limited to mounting within the cabin area. Additionally, there were no known existing brass and links ejection systems or cradles in this or other aircraft. The use of large caliber weapons in a helicopter became unwieldy because of the size and propensity for spent casings to become a hazard. Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane), has developed and patented a helicopter weapon mounting system that supports a variety of machine guns external to the cabin area of a helicopter. The unique cradle and pintle assembly is novel because it allows for the weapon to be manually operated by a crew or electronically for remote operation. The cradle and pintle assembly allows both manual and remote modes to be done with no modifications to the weapons, which reduces costs and logistics. The ejection system for brass and links makes the system compact, reduces the drag on an aircraft, and enables the spent casings to be recycled. This technology provides a stable mounting system for a machine gun, increases the weapon system's field of fire, and facilitates a weapon's range of motion. Advantages: -Supports a variety of machine guns -Can be used on a variety of support structures including aircraft and land vehicles -Includes a carriage supporting the weapon cradle for pivoting movement Potential Applications: -Military -Emergency services -Media broadcasting or recording |
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Jul 27, 2012
Utility Patent
United States
8,434,397
May 7, 2013
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