SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DRY FIREARM TRAINING
A dry firearm training system and method utilizing dry laser cartridge technology and a software application is provided. The software application enabling a user to: create, edit, or delete training templates providing the ability to perform training sessions quickly and efficiently. The system utilizes an auto calibration process to calibrate single or multi-targets in various shapes. The software application enables the user to perform a training session using the training template in a number of challenging game modes. All data from each session may be saved and uploaded to a social feed enabling other users to view the data. Personal records can be gained from the sessions, and users can compete for badges and rankings via multi-player matches and tournaments.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the InventionThe present invention generally relates to dry firing a firearm and more particularly a system and method for dry firearm training.
2. Description of Related ArtDry firing is the practice of simulating the discharge of a firearm without any live ammunition. As the cost of ammunition rises, the practice of dry firing a firearm increases in demand. Further, the ability to practice marksmanship indoors all year long and at any time of day is very appealing. Consequently, a system and method for dry firearm training is provided.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe following presents a simplified summary of some embodiments of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify key/critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some embodiments of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
In one aspect of the invention, a system for dry firearm training is provided, comprising a physical target having a plurality of individual targets, wherein each target of the plurality of individual targets includes an identifier associated with each target, the identifier comprising a number and a letter combination in a specific color; an adjustable tripod having a rotatable computing device holder, wherein the adjustable tripod is configured to adjust in height; a mobile computing device positioned in the rotatable computing device holder, the mobile computing device having a processor, data storage, display screen, and camera, wherein the processor is configured to execute a software application, and the mobile computing device includes a network connection such that the software application is configured to communicate with one or more servers connected to data repositories; a firearm loaded with a laser cartridge, wherein the firearm is configured to produce a laser when a trigger of the firearm is squeezed; wherein the camera of the mobile computing device is configured to be aimed at the physical target when positioned in the adjustable tripod, and the adjustable tripod is positioned a distanced range from the physical target; wherein the software application enables a user to: create an account; login; create a training template; activate an auto calibration process, wherein the auto calibration process accesses the camera of the mobile computing device to locate and calibrate the location of each target of the plurality of individual targets; perform a training session using the training template, wherein the training session enables the user to shoot at the plurality of individual targets with the firearm via a game mode; save and view training session data providing metrics and analysis of the training session; earn badges based on the results of training session data; share the training session data to a social feed; view training session data posted by other users on the social feed; create a match template; and, compete in a match using the match template with two or more users which produces a ranking of the two or more users, wherein the match is either in person or online via the Internet.
In one embodiment, the mobile computing device is a smartphone or tablet computer. In one embodiment, the training template enables a user to: select or add a firearm make and model, select a shooting drill, select the game mode, select a shot time period, specify the firearm's distance from the physical target, select a lighting condition, and select the number of training sessions. In one embodiment, the game mode is selected from a free shooting mode without constraints, a critical thinking game mode, a target call out mode, and a timed rapid fire mode. In one embodiment, the free shooting mode without constraints includes a timer or no timer option. In another embodiment, the critical thinking game mode is configured to confuse the user by displaying a different identifier from any of the available identifiers associated with the target on the display screen of the mobile computing device such that the number, the letter, and the specific color combination is different. In another embodiment, the target call out mode is configured to display one or more identifiers associated with a target. In yet another embodiment, the timed rapid fire mode provides the user with a challenge to hit as many targets as possible in a predetermined amount of time. In one embodiment, each target of the plurality of individual targets is a round shaped target. In one embodiment, during the auto calibration process, the software application locates each target and positions a circle on an outer dimension/boundary for each round shaped target. In another embodiment, each target of the plurality of individual targets is a humanoid shaped target. In another embodiment, during the auto calibration process, the software application locates each target and positions a circle on an outer dimension/boundary for a humanoid shaped target. In one embodiment, the distance range is 3 to 8 feet.
In another aspect of the invention, a method for dry firearm training is provided, comprising steps: (a) providing a physical target having a plurality of individual targets, wherein each target of the plurality of individual targets includes an identifier associated with each target, the identifier comprising a number and a letter combination in a specific color; an adjustable tripod having a rotatable computer device holder, wherein the adjustable tripod is configured to adjust in height; a mobile computing device positioned in the rotatable computer device holder, the mobile computing device having a processor, data storage, display screen, and camera, wherein the processor is configured to execute a software application, and the mobile computing device includes a network connection such that the software application is configured to communicate with one or more servers connected to data repositories; (b) positioning the adjustable tripod 3 to 8 feet from the physical target; (c) aiming the camera towards the physical target; (d) loading a firearm with a laser cartridge, wherein the firearm is configured to produce a laser when a trigger of the firearm is squeezed; (e) creating a template, wherein the template establishes predefined conditions for a training session or match, wherein the training session is for one user and the match is for two or more users; (f) performing an auto calibration process via the software application and camera such that each target of the plurality of individual targets is located and calibrated for the training session or match; (g) starting a training session or match; (h) finishing the training session or match; (i) saving data generated from the training session or match, wherein the data includes analysis and metrics of the training session or match and records and badges awarded for performance during the training session or match; and, (j) sharing the data on a social feed.
In one embodiment, the match is either in person or online via the Internet. In one embodiment, the predefined conditions include firearm make and model, drill selection, target type, game mode, shot time, target distance, and lighting conditions. In one embodiment, the game mode is selected from a free shooting mode without constraints, a critical thinking game mode, a target call out mode, and a timed rapid fire mode. In one embodiment, during the auto calibration process, the software application locates each target and positions a circle on an outer dimension/boundary for each target. In one embodiment, the results of the match produce a ranking of users based on their performance in the match. In another embodiment, a tournament which consists of two or more matches is provided.
The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more pertinent and important features of the present disclosure so that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood and so that the present contribution to the art can be more fully appreciated. Additional features of the invention will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and the disclosed specific methods and structures may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent structures do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.
Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
The following description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art, to make and use the invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out his invention. Various modifications, however, will remain readily apparent to those skilled in the art, since the general principles of the present invention have been defined herein to specifically provide a system and method for dry firearm training.
As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Any reference to “or” herein is intended to encompass “and/or” unless otherwise stated. As used herein, the term “about” or “approximately” refers to an amount that is near the stated amount by about 0%, 5%, or 10%, including increments therein. Alternatively, the term “about” or “approximately” refers to a range of values within plus or minus 10% of the specified number. As used in this application, the term “substantially” means that the actual value is within about 10% of the actual desired value, particularly within about 5% of the actual desired value and especially within about 1% of the actual desired value of any variable, element or limit set forth herein,
In one embodiment, the adjustable tripod 200 is configured to adjust in height, and the device holder may rotate such that the smartphone 300 may be in landscape or portrait mode. The system is designed to work with any smartphone that includes a camera. Mobile computers, such as tablets, and iPads® may also be used. Advantageously, the system is designed to be used with most commercially available firearms, wherein the firearm 400 is configured to be used with a laser cartridge 401. The laser cartridge is configured to produce a laser when the firearm is fired via the gun's trigger. The laser cartridge is designed without a rim, so the cartridge doesn't get ejected after firing. The back of the laser cartridge has a rubber button pad that safely absorbs the impact of the firing pin and triggers the laser to strike when the gun is fired. The laser cartridge is 100% safe for the firearm, and does not damage the firearm during use. The laser cartage is available in a plurality of calibers to fit most of the commercially available firearms. The laser cartage runs on batteries positioned within the cartage cylinder,
Once the components are correctly positioned, the user is configured to enable the training module 600A via the application software via their smartphone. Advantageously, the application software allows for the creation of templates 606 which speeds up the options/selections that must be entered for a training session. If one or templates are available, the user may select a template to start a training session 607. If not, the user is prompted to select or add a firearm make and model 608. Next, the user is prompted to select a drill 609. It should be noted this is an optional step. The number of drills available may vary, and the drills enable the user to practice various firearm skills, including but not limited to draw drills (holster and fire), unloading and reloading magazine prior to firing, turning around and firing, or other custom or known drills. Next, the target type is selected, single target 610 or multi target 611 as previously described. Next, the game mode is selected 612. The different game modes will be discussed in further details below. Templates may be edited and deleted as necessary.
Next, the shot time is selected 613, wherein the shot time is optional and features a timing mechanism for the training session, including delays between firing. Many options are available and configurable. Next, the target distance is selected 614, which is the distance or range between the firearm and the target in yards or feet. Next, the lighting conditions may be specified 615, i.e. daylight, night, low light, etc. Next, the user may select the number of training sessions 616 wherein the selected training session may be repeated a number of times with a specific break between sessions, e.g. two sessions with a 10 second break between sessions. Further, sound effects may be emitted to cue the start and/or end of a training session, as well as a sound representing a shot (laser) hitting a target.
Next, the user is prompted to the auto calibration step 617, wherein the software calibrates the targets via the smartphone's camera. This process will be described in further detail below. As previously mentioned, if a template was created previously, the user may skip the selection step and skip to the auto calibration step. Also, it should be noted that the selections and options discussed above can be entered in any order. Finally, the user may start the training session 619 and shoot the targets based on the various options selected above.
In one embodiment, the user may also view their personal records 904 and badges, indicating personal records and scores the user may achieve for each specific template or firearm. The user may also upload a picture 905 to be associated with that training session. The data may be shared on their social feed 906. In one embodiment, the social feed is a social platform where users can follow their friends and view their training sessions 907 that were previously shared by the users. In some embodiments, the social feed is independent from 3rd party social networking sites. In other embodiments, the social feed utilizes one or more 3rd party social networking sites, such as Facebook®, to add friends, post session data, etc.
In one embodiment, “Free for All” 1001 allows a user the ability to shoot at the targets without rules or guidelines, and this may be timed or not.
In one embodiment, “Critical Thinking” 1002 provides a mind bending experience attempting to confuse the user, requiring the user to think before firing their firearm. The application software calls out identifiers, wherein the identifiers correspond to a target, but the identifier is not exact, it has been changed in some way to confuse the user. More specifically, the call out identifier on the software application includes one or more of the colors, letters, and numbers which vary from the intended corresponding target identifier above the intended target. For example, the call out identifier is in a different color than presented on the target.
In one embodiment, “Target Call out” 1003 provides the user with a call out to identify, such as a single letter, number, color, or a combination thereof matching one or more of the targets.
In one embodiment, “Rapid Fire” 1004 provides the user with a challenge to hit as many targets as possible in a predetermined amount of time.
Although the invention has been described in considerable detail in language specific to structural features, it is to be understood that the invention defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features described. Rather, the specific features are disclosed as exemplary preferred forms of implementing the claimed invention. Stated otherwise, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein, as well as the abstract, are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Therefore, while exemplary illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described, numerous variations and alternative embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. Such variations and alternate embodiments are contemplated, and can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
It should further be noted that throughout the entire disclosure, the labels such as left, right, front, back, top, bottom, forward, reverse, clockwise, counter clockwise, up, down, or other similar terms such as upper, lower, aft, fore, vertical, horizontal, oblique, proximal, distal, parallel, perpendicular, transverse, longitudinal, etc. have been used for convenience purposes only and are not intended to imply any particular fixed direction or orientation. Instead, they are used to reflect relative locations and/or directions/orientations between various portions of an object.
In addition, reference to “first,” “second,” “third,” and etc. members throughout the disclosure (and in particular, claims) are not used to show a serial or numerical limitation but instead are used to distinguish or identify the various members of the group.
Claims
1. A system for dry firearm training comprising:
- a physical target having a plurality of individual targets, wherein each target of the plurality of individual targets includes an identifier associated with each target, the identifier comprising a number and a letter combination in a specific color;
- an adjustable tripod having a rotatable computing device holder, wherein the adjustable tripod is configured to adjust in height;
- a mobile computing device positioned in the rotatable computing device holder, the mobile computing device having a processor, data storage, display screen, and camera, wherein the processor is configured to execute a software application, and the mobile computing device includes a network connection such that the software application is configured to communicate with one or servers connected to data repositories;
- a firearm loaded with a laser cartridge, wherein the firearm is configured to produce a laser when a trigger of the firearm is squeezed;
- wherein the camera of the mobile computing device is configured to be aimed at the physical target when positioned in the adjustable tripod, and the adjustable tripod is positioned a distance range from the physical target;
- wherein the software application enables a user to: create an account; login; create a training template; activate an auto calibration process, wherein the auto calibration process accesses the camera of the mobile computing device to locate and calibrate the location of each target of the plurality of individual targets; perform a training session using the training template, wherein the training session enables the user to shoot at the plurality of individual targets with the firearm via a game mode; save and view training session data providing metrics and analysis of the training session; earn badges based on the results of training session data; share the training session data to a social feed; view training session data posted by other users on the social feed; create a match template; and, compete in a match using the match template with two or more users which produces a ranking of the two or more users, wherein the match is either in person or online via the Internet.
2. The system for dry firearm training of claim 1, wherein the mobile computing device is a smartphone or tablet computer.
3. The system for dry firearm training of claim 1, wherein the training template enables a user to: select or add a firearm make and model, select a shooting drill, select the game mode, select a shot time period, specify the firearm's distance from the physical target, select a lighting condition, and select the number of training sessions.
4. The system for dry firearm training of claim 1, wherein the game mode is selected from a free shooting mode without constraints, a critical thinking game mode, a target call out mode, and a timed rapid fire mode.
5. The system for dry firearm training of claim 4, wherein the free shooting mode without constraints includes a timer or no timer option.
6. The system for dry firearm training of claim 4, wherein the critical thinking game mode is configured to confuse the user by displaying a different identifier from any of the available identifiers associated with the target on the display screen of the mobile computing device such that the number, the letter, and the specific color combination is different.
7. The system for dry firearm training of claim 4, wherein the target call out mode is configured to display one or more identifiers associated with a target.
8. The system for dry firearm training of claim 4, wherein the timed rapid fire mode provides the user with a challenge to hit as many targets as possible in a predetermined amount of time.
9. The system for dry firearm training of claim 1, wherein each target of the plurality of individual targets is a round shaped target.
10. The system for dry firearm training of claim 9, wherein during the auto calibration process, the software application locates each target and positions a circle on an outer dimension/boundary for each round shaped target.
11. The system for dry firearm training of claim 1, wherein each target of the plurality of individual targets is a humanoid shaped target.
12. The system for dry firearm training of claim 11, wherein during the auto calibration process, the software application locates each target and positions a circle on an outer dimension/boundary for a humanoid shaped target.
13. The system for dry firearm training of claim 1, wherein the distance range is 3 to 8 feet.
14. A method for dry firearm training comprising steps:
- (a) providing a physical target having a plurality of individual targets, wherein each target of the plurality of individual targets includes an identifier associated with each target, the identifier comprising a number and a letter combination in a specific color; an adjustable tripod having a rotatable computer device holder, wherein the adjustable tripod is configured to adjust in height; a mobile computing device positioned in the rotatable computer device holder, the mobile computing device having a processor, data storage, display screen, and camera, wherein the processor is configured to execute a software application, and the mobile computing device includes a network connection such that the software application is configured to communicate with one or more servers connected to data repositories;
- (b) positioning the adjustable tripod 3 to 8 feet from the physical target;
- (c) aiming the camera towards the physical target;
- (d) loading a firearm with a laser cartridge, wherein the firearm is configured to produce a laser when a trigger of the firearm is squeezed;
- (e) creating a template, wherein the template establishes predefined conditions for a training session or match, wherein the training session is for one user and the match is for two or more users;
- (f) performing an auto calibration process via the software application and camera such that each target of the plurality of individual targets is located and calibrated for the training session or match;
- (g) starting a training session or match;
- (h) finishing the training session or match;
- (i) saving data generated from the training session or match, wherein the data includes analysis and metrics of the training session or match and records and badges awarded for performance during the training session or match; and,
- (j) sharing the data on a social feed.
15. The method for dry firearm training of claim 14, wherein the match is either in person or online via the Internet.
16. The method for dry firearm training of claim 14, wherein the predefined conditions include firearm make and model, drill selection, target type, game mode, shot time, target distance, and lighting conditions.
17. The method for dry firearm training of claim 16, wherein the game mode is selected from a free shooting mode without constraints, a critical thinking game mode, a target call out mode, and a timed rapid fire mode.
18. The method for dry firearm training of claim 14, wherein during the auto calibration process, the software application locates each target and positions a circle on an outer dimension/boundary for each target.
19. The method for dry firearm training of claim 14, wherein the results of the match produce a ranking of users based on their performance in the match.
20. The method for dry firearm training of claim 19, further comprising a tournament which consists of two or more matches.
Type: Application
Filed: Dec 1, 2021
Publication Date: Jun 1, 2023
Inventor: Scott Hutchison (Toronto)
Application Number: 17/540,145