Abstract: Systems and methods for tracking entities and objects in an environment can include an entity-mounted instrumentation (EMI) and an object-mounted instrumentation (OMI). The OMI can include a first IMU array to detect the object orientation, and a TOF pulse transmitter to transmit a TOF pulse. The EMI can include a second IMU array to detect the entity orientation, a GPS receiver, and an array of TOF sensors to receive various versions of the TOF pulse. The EMI can determine a location and orientation of the entity using GPS data and orientation data generated by the second IMU array. The EMI can determine a relative location of the object using the various versions of the TOF pulse, and can determine a location of the object using the relative location of the object and the location of the entity. The EMI can determine the object orientation using data provided by the first IMU array.

Abstract: Laser transmission systems mountable on firearms are disclosed along with methods of operating and configuring the same. The laser transmissions systems are configured to detect that a sequence of real-time mechanical vibrations on the firearm are in accordance with a predetermined characteristic firing signature of the firearm. In response, the laser transmission system initiates transmission of a laser to simulate a munitions strike. The predetermined characteristic firing signature is based on a sequence of predetermined mechanical vibrations resulting from a first pre-flash firing event and a subsequent second pre-flash firing event. In this manner, the laser transmission system initiates transmission of the laser prior to a flash event and more accurately approximates a bullet trajectory.

Abstract: A simulated weapon for simulating projectiles fired at a target includes a firearm housing and an optical transmitter. The firearm housing is configured to be aimed at the target by a gunner. The optical transmitter is mechanically coupled to the firearm housing and is configured to transmit an optical beam that simulates a projectile. The optical transmitter includes an optical generator for generating the optical beam and a beam shaping element operatively positioned to receive the optical beam from the optical generator. The beam shaping element is configured to adjust an intensity profile of the optical beam that is incident upon the target so that a first portion of the optical beam simulates a trajectory of a projectile and a second portion of the optical beam has a greater divergence than the first portion of the optical beam.

Abstract: A device for improving the visibility of an emergency vehicle from the side includes an elongated base having affixed thereto a plurality of lights. The base is affixable to a vehicle side so as to position the lights in a substantially horizontally directed orientation. The lights are powerable via the electrical system of the vehicle, and a switch for activating and de-activating the lights is preferably positioned in the vehicle interior.