Abstract: A thermal sleeve cover according to various embodiments can include a target layer material having emissivity and reflecting properties identifiable by a thermal sensor detecting device during firearm training. The thermal sleeve cover is fitted over a target backer in a taut manner to promote thermal contrast between the target layer material and its surrounding background. The tautness of the target layer material enhances the thermal identification when the target layer material is detected by the thermal sensor detecting device. The thermal cover is adjustable to snugly fit over a variety of target backers having different configurations and sizes.

Abstract: Before a person can use any weapon, such as a gun or a rifle, effectively, the sight must be aligned to the barrel through a zeroing process. Various embodiments discloses a firearm zeroing app for automatically determining the adjustments of a weapon equipped with an optical sight. The system can utilize a mobile device to take a picture to capture an image of a shot group. Then, using the app, the system automatically calculates the datum of the shot group, the centroid of the shot group, and the distance for adjustment of the sighting device to accurately fire the firearm. In another embodiment, the mobile device can be configured to capture and record the image of firing of the firearm so that the app automatically captures as a video the images of the shots fired to establish the shot group and automatically analyzes the projectile's flight path data.

Abstract: Before a person can use any weapon, such as a gun or a rifle, effectively, the sight must be aligned to the barrel through a zeroing process. An improved zero target is developed which is inexpensive and applicable to many different weapon sight scenarios. By making a universal zero target, users need only a single target eliminating the need for procuring and storing various targets. Additionally, the multi-sight target eliminates the need for field expedient zeroing solutions. The product saves both time and money and improves the results for weapon users.

Abstract: Before a person can use any weapon, such as a gun or a rifle, effectively, the sight must be aligned to the barrel through a zeroing process. An improved zero target is developed which is inexpensive and applicable to many different weapon sight scenarios. By making a universal zero target, users need only a single target eliminating the need for procuring and storing various targets. Additionally, the multi-sight target eliminates the need for field expedient zeroing solutions. The product saves both time and money and improves the results for weapon users.

Abstract: A communication system and method utilizing an infrared signal emitter communicating a predefined signal, and an infrared signal receiver capable of receiving such predefined signal, distinguishing such predefined signal within a field of view of the infrared signal receiver, and providing output indicating the location of the infrared signal emitter within the field of view of the infrared signal receiver.

Abstract: A communication system and method utilizing an infrared signal emitter communicating a predefined signal, and an infrared signal receiver capable of receiving such predefined signal, distinguishing such predefined signal within a field of view of the infrared signal receiver, and providing output indicating the location of the infrared signal emitter within the field of view of the infrared signal receiver.

Abstract: The invention provides methods of creating and using objects that are detectable in the infrared range of the electromagnetic spectrum. The objects typically have two or more removable elements that are detectable using infrared sensing equipment. The detectable elements are removable from the object for rapid part renewal in the field of use. Particular application is made to the use of such for combat identification.

Abstract: A marking system that allows remote observations of visual and infrared electromagnetic signatures emitted from a distinctive marker panel. A kit employing such panels is particularly suitable for military environments, which, in turn, enhances the survivability of military equipment. The marking system preferably provides a signature in the mid and far infrared and near infrared portions of the electromagnetic spectrum, such that the electromagnetic radiation can be observed by a pilot in an approaching moving object such as a plane, helicopter, or land vehicle that is equipped with a thermal imaging system or light intensifier device, even in adverse environmental conditions. In varying embodiments, the marking system may be used as a landing marker, a bore sight panel, and an identification panel. Utilization of passive infrared material enables use of such marking system when external power is unavailable.

Abstract: A method of creating signage visible by infrared cameras and infrared weapon sights is provided. Particular application is made to the calibration of infrared weapon sights. An improved calibration target and method is developed.

Abstract: An elongated strip of release paper supports infrared reflective tape releasably attached to the backing paper. The infrared reflective tape is cut to form segments that can be dispensed like labels that can be held in place by an adhesive backing to enable the segment of reflective tape to be sewn in place on a garment. Infrared reflective segments can be dispensed from a roll on a spool using a manual label dispenser.

Abstract: A method of creating signage visible by infrared cameras and infrared weapon sights is provided. Particular application is made to the calibration of infrared weapon sights. An improved calibration target and method is developed.

Abstract: A connect and disconnect assembly for connecting and disconnecting a laser diode having leads to a printed circuit board (PCB). The assembly includes a heatsink having a base plate portion and fins extending from and integral with the base plate portion. The heatsink further includes spacer sleeves extending from a side of the base plate portion opposing the fins. The heatsink connects to the printed circuit board by providing mount screws through the heatsink and spacer sleeves which are received in mount holes formed in the PCB. The laser diode connects to the base plate portion of the heatsink. Laser support blocks connect with the heatsink and support opposing sides of the laser diode. Each laser support block is provided with a dielectric gasket. When the heatsink is mounted onto the PCB, the laser diode leads are forced against corresponding pads provided on the PCB for electrically connecting the laser diode to the PCB.

Abstract: A method for tensioning and positioning a fiber optic cable includes providing and securing a first portion of the fiber optic cable in a first support with a first clamp. A second portion of the fiber optic cable is then provided in a second support, and secured thereto with a second clamp. A cam contacting the second support is then rotated, thereby rotating the second support due to its weight and the weight of the second clamp. The rotation of the second support creates a gravity-assisted moment arm that uniformly and repeatably tensions and positions the fiber optic cable. After the fiber optic cable is uniformly tensioned and positioned, a refractive-index grating may be etched in the glass optical fiber portion of the cable. Once the grating is etched, the cable may be removed by reversing the method.

Abstract: A connect and disconnect assembly for connecting and disconnecting a laser diode having leads to a printed circuit board (PCB). The assembly includes a heatsink having a base plate portion and fins extending from and integral with the base plate portion. The heatsink further includes spacer sleeves extending from a side of the base plate portion opposing the fins. The heatsink connects to the printed circuit board by providing mount screws through the heatsink and spacer sleeves which are received in mount holes formed in the PCB. The laser diode connects to the base plate portion of the heatsink. Laser support blocks connect with the heatsink and support opposing sides of the laser diode. Each laser support block is provided with a dielectric gasket. When the heatsink is mounted onto the PCB, the laser diode leads are forced against corresponding pads provided on the PCB for electrically connecting the laser diode to the PCB.

Abstract: A connect and disconnect assembly for connecting and disconnecting a laser diode having leads to a printed circuit board (PCB). The assembly includes a heatsink having a base plate portion and fins extending from and integral with the base plate portion. The heatsink further includes spacer sleeves extending from a side of the base plate portion opposing the fins. The heatsink connects to the printed circuit board by providing mount screws through the heatsink and spacer sleeves which are received in mount holes formed in the PCB. The laser diode connects to the base plate portion of the heatsink. Laser support blocks connect with the heatsink and support opposing sides of the laser diode. Each laser support block is provided with a dielectric gasket. When the heatsink is mounted onto the PCB, the laser diode leads are forced against corresponding pads provided on the PCB for electrically connecting the laser diode to the PCB.

Abstract: A system and method for removing a predetermined length of coating from a fiber optic cable. The system includes a chemical bath, and a system for forming a loop in a fiber optic cable. The loop forming system includes a vertical column, and a slide arm having a guide collar portion slidably provided on the vertical column, and a distal portion extending away from and integral with the guide collar portion. The loop forming system further includes a mount shaft extending from and connected to the distal portion of the slide arm, the mount shaft having clamps and a tensioning spring for retaining portions of the fiber optic cable. A push rod movably extends through the mount shaft, and connects to a fiber optic cable loop former. The fiber optic cable loop former engages a surface of the mount shaft and is pushed away therefrom by the push rod during formation of the loop in the fiber optic cable.