Treatise on Armament Technology, Volume 42

original: "護兵" (Hubing). These are the personal bodyguards of the commander, arranged in screening lines to provide 360-degree protection.

As seen on the previous page, these banners define the "gate" or entrance to the mobile command center.

Summoning Flagoriginal: "招" (Zhao). A signal flag used to call specific officers to the general's side.
Command Flagoriginal: "令旗" (Lingqi). High-authority banners used to transmit specific tactical orders across the field.

The Grand Square Flag (大方旗, Dafangqi) serves as a primary visual marker for the main body of the army. The Corner Flags (角旗, Jiaoqi) assist in maintaining the geometric integrity of the formation.

The repetition of Gate Banners at the rear indicates the "back gate" of the protected command square.

Vocabulary Reference

• Escort Guards: Soldiers assigned to the personal protection of high-ranking officers.
• Gate Banners: Large flags used to demarcate the boundaries of a camp or headquarters.
• Command Flags: Small flags carried by messengers to prove they carry the general's authority.
• Summoning Flag: A flag used to signal a "call to assembly" for subordinate commanders.
• Corner Flags: Flags placed at the four corners of a formation to guide movement and positioning.
• Grand Square Flag: A large, square banner representing the central authority of the unit.
• Formation Diagram: A visual schematic used to train soldiers in proper positioning.