Fascines

Abstract

An apparatus ( 2 ) for the deployment of fascines comprises a fixed framework adapted to be mounted to the front region of a vehicle such as the glacis plate ( 3 ) of a tank ( 1 ). A leading portion of the framework extends forwardly of the vehicle and carries straps ( 18, 19 ) to support a bundle of inflatable fascine members ( 20 ). A winch ( 21 ) is mounted on the framework and can be used to raise the fascine members into the straps and subsequently to release the straps and allow the fascine members to drop into a ditch or other discontinuity and then inflate, to facilitate passage of the vehicle.

1 . Apparatus for the deployment of fascine members comprising a framework adapted to be mounted to the front region of a vehicle and including a leading portion carrying releasable support means adapted to support one or more fascine members generally transverse to the vehicle and to allow such members to fall to the ground on release of said support means. 
     
     
         2 . Apparatus according to  claim 1  wherein said framework comprises a first portion adapted to be mounted to a sloping surface at the front region of a vehicle and a second portion, including said leading portion, adapted to extend forwardly from and at an angle to such sloping surface when said first portion is mounted thereon. 
     
     
         3 . Apparatus according to  claim 1  wherein said releasable support means comprise at least a pair of straps each adapted to releasably pass around one or more fascine members. 
     
     
         4 . Apparatus according to  claim 1  further comprising a winch adapted to lift one or more fascine members into a position to be supported by said support means. 
     
     
         5 . Apparatus according to  claim 4  wherein said support means comprise release means connectable to said winch whereby to release said support means by operation of said winch. 
     
     
         6 . Apparatus according to  claim 1  wherein said framework is a fixed framework. 
     
     
         7 . A vehicle with apparatus according to  claim 1  mounted to the front region thereof. 
     
     
         8 . A vehicle according to  claim 7  wherein said apparatus is mounted in a fixed position. 
     
     
         9 . A vehicle according to  claim 7  with one or more inflatable fascine members supported by said support means. 
     
     
         10 . A vehicle having a sloping glacis plate at the front region thereof with apparatus according to  claim 2  mounted to said glacis plate.