Foldout cradle apparatus for mounting an automatic cannon to a turret

Abstract

Cradle apparatus for mounting an automatic cannon to an elevationally rotatable plate positioned at an exterior region of a weapons system turret or cupola includes an elongate, rigid, box-like cradle and first, second and third universal ball connections, arranged in a generally triangular configuration, for mounting the cradle to the rotatable plate. Each of the connections includes cradle portions fixed to the cradle and plate portions fixed to the plate. The first, uppermost connection includes means for releasably latching together the cradle and plate portions thereof; whereas, the second and third, lower connections define a cradle hinge line about which the cradle is pivotable between open and closed conditions relative to the plate when the first connection cradle and plate portions are unlatched. Means are provided in the cradle for mounting an automatic cannon in a manner enabling ready access to receiver portions thereof when the cradle is in the open condition. The three cradle connections are configured to enable both azimuth and elevational bore sight adjustment of a cannon mounted in the cradle by adjusting the position of the closed cradle relative to the plate. Mechanical assist means are provided for controlling pivotal movement of the cradle between the open and closed positions.