Abstract: A system and method for use in training armed personnel are described. According to one embodiment, the system includes a number of autonomous mobile units and the units are arranged to perform actions in a training area to simulate participants in a firearms training exercise, and at least one of the mobile units is arranged to base at least some of its actions at least partially on the behavior of at least one human in the training area.

Abstract: A non-firing housing imitates a functioning receiver for an M249 machine gun. The non-firing housing includes one or more of a number of alterations as compared to a functioning M249 receiver. Such alterations include: providing a non-firing barrel support with substantial dimensional differences as compared to a standard M249 barrel support; providing a non-firing barrel support with additional structural features that prevent any bolt head (and particularly a standard M249 bolt head) from entering the battery position; providing right or left non-firing bolt rails with dimensional or structural or positional alterations as compared to standard right and left bolt rails for a standard M249; providing the non-firing housing with the absence of an ejection port; providing a non-firing right bolt rail with the absence of a hinge bore; and providing a non-firing left bolt rail with the absence of an ejector pin bore and back stop material.

Abstract: A method for generating input information associated with a question to be provided to a simulation device on-board a platform. The question is elected among a plurality of questions. A simulation criterion corresponding to the simulation is determined. A simulation scenario is modified depending upon the question. The input information is generated depending upon the elected question and the simulation criterion.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for simulating a missile. A simulation program for a weapon using a processor unit is executed in a simulation unit. A number of input signals is received from a control station in a vehicle through an interface system connected to a weapons interface on the vehicle. The interface system is in communications with the processor unit. The control station is capable of operating the weapon connected to the weapons interface. A number of output signals is generated using a simulation of the weapon. The number of output signals is sent through the weapons interface to the control station.

Abstract: Immersive training scenario systems and related methods are provided. The immersive training scenario systems can provide at least one simulated structure. The at least one simulated structure can include a base structure having at least one surface thereon. One or more substrates with one or more photographic images printed thereon are applied to the surface of the base structure so that the simulated structure has realistic visual characteristics representative of a mission site or mission scenario.

Abstract: A device, system and method for identifying an object. The device comprises an identification badge comprising a surface at least partially reflective to infrared light and having an insignia thereon, and a source of infrared light co-located with the badge and comprising at least one infrared light emitting LED. The source and the badge are both secured to the object and the source is positioned relative to the badge such that the light emitted from the at least one infrared LED falls on the reflective surface.

Abstract: The present invention is a weapon simulator that is at least partially controlled by a host computer and simulates near actual recoil forces of a weapon via a gun active recoil unit.

Abstract: The present invention is a firearm sight training tool, and, more specifically, relates to a method and tool for training a shooter to properly align a firearm's sights relative to a target, which through its implementation and use may provide for a more efficient and low cost means of training a firearm user to properly align a firearm's sights relative to the firearm user's target of interest.

Abstract: A shooting simulation system and method. The system a firearm held by a user. In addition, the user has a user computer and an optical system associated with the firearm for capturing an image. The image provides information on a trajectory of a simulated bullet fired from a shooting firearm. The optical system is aligned relative to a known sight of the shooting firearm. The optical system captures the image when a trigger of the shooting firearm is pulled. The system also includes an image recognition system for determining if the captured image is a legitimate target. The user computer determines if the captured image is a hit or a miss of the target using only information obtained from the optical system and image recognition system for determining if the captured image is a hit or a miss of a target.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling movement of a vehicle. A current state of the vehicle is identified. The current state comprises a current location of the vehicle. A next state for the vehicle is selected by a processor unit. The next state comprises a next location for the vehicle. A value for an attribute of the next state of the vehicle is randomly selected. The movement of the vehicle is controlled to move the vehicle from the current state to the next state.

Abstract: A training system is provided. The training system may have a handheld computing device configured to receive a data input from an input device. The input device may be a sensor capable of measuring a condition relating to the training. An analysis module in electronic communication with the handheld computing device is configured to interpret the data input from the input device and configured provide a feedback output related to the execution of the goals of the training system. Based on this feedback, a trainee or trainer may adjust the training program to enhance the trained skills.

Abstract: A device for visualizing military operations for depicting a scenario for a plurality of action subjects represents each action subject by a representative. The device for visualizing military operations has a memory unit, a first representation unit, and a computing unit. The computing unit is designed to control the first representation unit in such a way that a scenario stored in the memory unit together with the action subjects represented by the representatives are reproduced.

Abstract: A Universal Hands-On Trainer (UHOT) for use with an interactive training simulator and software plug-in that provides the “fit” and “function” of a piece of equipment provided with tactical handgrips but not the “form”. The UHOT has an assembled shape and structure that is both scaled-down and different from that of the real piece of equipment. Because the UHOT does not replicate the “form” of any piece of equipment, the UHOT is not limited to training only one piece of equipment. Different tactical handgrips may be attached to the UHOT to provide training with the correct “fit” for a wide variety of equipment. The UHOT may be provided with a universal interface and various adapters to attach different tactical handgrips.

Abstract: A moving, shooting, video recording, human-appearing combat training machine comprising of three major components referred to as the mobile base unit, the target body and an unattached control system is provided. The base unit has a chassis plate driven by a plurality of motors and a plurality of wheel assemblies within an exterior armor which protects internal components of the chassis from projectile impacts. The target body mounts to an extension plate affixed to the underside of the chassis plate of the base unit, creating an overall human appearing subject that moves in varying directions. The combat training machine returns fire by shooting projectiles while recording video with an electronic or mechanical sighting system for target and video playback for training analysis.

Abstract: A simulated participant system is configured to interoperate with existing simulators to create an integrated simulation platform with enhanced capabilities to provide, on a readily-scalable basis, simulated participants of one or more different types that are based on dynamically constructed virtual models of live simulation participants. The system observes live participants as they train with a simulator using a closed-loop, self-training configuration by continuously monitoring conversations and actions to create and maintain the virtual models on-the-fly. The virtual models may then be utilized to generate simulated participants to stand in for the live participants when they are absent from future simulator training sessions. Because a simulated participant was virtually modeled from observations of a live participant, the simulated behaviors, as expressed by actions and responses, can typically closely match the expected behavior of the absent live participant.

Abstract: Computer-based systems provide a wireless, high fidelity, real-time video and audio immersive environment for multiple users. A user may be equipped with a head mounted display device which wirelessly receives real-time video signals transmitted by a radio transceiver linked to a computer that generates the real-time video images. Aspects include body, arm and leg motion and orientation sensors in wireless communication with a radio transceiver linked with a computer. Video images may be generated using a portable array of user dedicated computers controlled by a single computer that is controlled by an operator.

Abstract: A system and method for manipulating an environment to create a tactical combat scenario requires the coordinated implementation of various actions. One requires detonating an explosion simulator to create a smoke cloud with pseudo shrapnel. Another requires activating a sound enhancer, and yet another involves making a fire-ball. The combined result of these concerted actions is a perception of a single explosive event. Importantly, personnel can be within approximately one foot of any action without suffering a significant injury.

Abstract: A method including measuring a physical quantity having a magnitude that changes in time as a result of a fire shot event so as to obtain a measurement signal, and comparing the measurement signal with a predetermined time-domain fingerprint for said quantity, which fingerprint is characteristic of the way the quantity varies in time upon a fire shot event, in order to confirm the occurrence of a fire shot event in case the measurement signal and the fingerprint match.

Abstract: A gun-resembling apparatus having a gunstock and a barrel, a sight aligned with the barrel, a trigger mounted along the gunstock, and image capturing features for capturing targeted images via operating the trigger and safety features incorporated with the image capturing features to teach the student proper gun-handling procedures. The device includes a camera to capture image(s) in a sight line of the barrel. The image(s) are displayed on a display screen for viewing and editing. The device also incorporates a safety switch having a safe and fire position, the camera being prohibited from operating in the safe position and being allowed to operate in the fire position. An alert signal may sound through a speaker if the trigger is not operated after a predetermined time of the safety switch being in the fire position. An image storage device may also be used.

Abstract: The invention relates to a recoil impulse generator for a weapon simulator comprising a force storage element and an impulse mass that can be moved and that is moved from a stressed to an unstressed position with a triggering element is actuated in order to simulate a recoil impulse. The recoil impulse generator comprises a drive that drives a spindle uninterruptedly during a shot sequence simulating several shots; a coupling that is connected to the impulse mass and to the force storage element and that engages in the spindle in an engaged state and that is moved along the spindle by means of rotation of the spindle in order to bring the impulse mass into the stressed position again the force applied by the force storage element; a disengaging means that switches the coupling to a disengaged state when the impulse mass has reached the stressed position; and an engaging means that switches the coupling to the engaged state when the impulse mass has reached the unstressed position.

Abstract: A smart magazine adapted to be releasably engaged with a simulated weapon is provided, the magazine comprising a housing, a valving mechanism disposed within the housing and a data module including an electronic storage medium for storing information concerning an amount of simulated ammunition “shots” present in the magazine, and a connection member operably connected to the data module and adapted to be operably connected to a control module in the weapon to transmit and receive signals in response to the firing of the weapon to adjust the number of “shots” stored in the storage medium. The magazine utilizes a compressed gas cartridge that releases gas to produce an audible “pop” when the weapon is fired and to reset the “shot” count for the magazine when the canister is replaced.

Abstract: An apparatus for non-permanent conversion of a semiautomatic pistol into a compressed gas powered weapon simulator. The apparatus replaces the pistol's barrel, recoil spring and magazine with no modification of the pistol, which allows retaining the operational functions of the pistol's remaining components. Compressed gas, from the simulation magazine unit, is used in the compressed gas valve means, in the barrel unit, to operate the slide mechanism, to compress the simulation recoil spring, and to emit a laser pulse beam on a target when activated by the firing mechanism; and battery power, from the simulation magazine unit, is used to count the number of shots, lock the slide after a predetermined number of shots and transmit information from the weapon simulator to a remote data system. The compressed simulation recoil spring returns the slide mechanism back to its original position, unless locked open by the apparatus.

Abstract: A training barrel having a central axis for housing a light emitting insert which includes an elongate member having a first end, a second end, and a first internal surface. The first internal surface extends from the first end to the second end. The internal surface includes a first segment which defines a first volume having a first cross sectional area perpendicular to the central axis, a second segment adjacent the first segment which defines a second volume having a second cross sectional area perpendicular to the central axis, and a third segment proximate the second segment which defines a third volume having a third cross sectional area perpendicular to the central axis, the third cross sectional area being greater than the second cross sectional area. The third segment may be configured and dimensioned to receive a light emitting insert and the first segment may be configured and dimensioned to receive a blank cartridge.

Abstract: A device includes a first light source to be aligned along a path of a projectile. The first light source has a narrow divergence to simulate the path of the projectile. A second light source has a vertically wide divergence extending above the path of the projectile. The first and second light sources are encoded and aligned to facilitate distinguishing between head and body shots using only head sensors.

Abstract: Contact-indicating devices including an elongate contacting member, and a housing configured to enclose a portion of the contacting member, the housing further enclosing a translation sensor configured to detect an inward longitudinal translation of the contacting member, and a rotation sensor configured to detect a pivoting of the contacting member in a first direction. The disclosed devices further include at least one indicating element, where the indicating element is configured to differentiate between the detected longitudinal translation of the contacting member and the detected pivoting of the contacting member in the first direction.

Abstract: The invention is a trigger pull training device for improving trigger pull technique. The device has a frame with a trigger track opening and a trigger which goes through that opening. A proximity sensor or a plurality of proximity sensors are placed proximate the trigger track opening. The sensors are connected to an indicator whereby pulling the trigger such that the trigger is within the sensing zone causes the proximity sensor to emit a signal. A plurality of sensors can be lined along the trigger track opening to indicate the accuracy of any pull.

Abstract: A target in a physical environment can be interrogated. Feedback can be received from the target that is encoded within a radio frequency signal. The feedback can include position and movement data of the target. Adjustments can be calculated for a simulated kinetic projectile traveling to the target. The adjustments can account for target movement, kinetic projectile travel time, and travel path to the target. A distance from a point of origin of the simulated kinetic projectile to the target and movement of the target relative to the point of origin can be determined utilizing the feedback. A result signal can be conveyed that includes result data. The result data can include all information necessary for the target to react to the simulated kinetic projectile.

Abstract: A system and method calculate a range and velocity of an object in image data. The range calculation includes detecting a contour of the object from the image data, forming a template from the image data based on the contour; and calculating a range to the object using pixel resolution and dimension statistics of the object. A three-dimensional velocity of the object is determined by calculating a radial component and an angular component of the velocity. The radial velocity component is calculated by determining the range of the object in two or more image frames, determining a time differential between the two or more image frames, and calculating the radial velocity as a function of the range of the object in the two or more image frames and the time differential between the two or more image frames. The angular component is calculated using spatial-temporal derivatives as a function of a motion constraint equation.

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 method for providing fire support command and control for small unit operations. The method involves displaying a geographical representation of a battle space using a map. One or more strike asset icons are displayed on the map, each representing strike assets which are geographically dispersed within the battle space. At least one target icon is also displayed on the map to represent a target within the battle space. In response to a user input identifying a desired effect upon the target, the system graphically conveys fire mission planning information to the user during an interactive mission planning process.

Abstract: A video camera and recording device integrated with a real or toy weapon to provide video recording of the assault and aiming process of the weapon holder in operational training, actual combat, hunting, sports and gaming scenarios. A video camera is boresighted with the weapon, and a video memory stores the recorded dynamic scenario, and a trigger sensor which continually senses and records the triggering actions imposed by the weapon holder. The trigger sensor is attached to the actual trigger of the weapon thus enabling normal operation of the weapon. The video camera, may be mounted internally within the bore of the weapon, such that the external form of the weapon is not altered, thus achieving closer operation to real life situations. The recorded trigger data is utilized upon playback of the recorded video, enabling quick review and scoring of the recorded aiming process for training and gaming.

Abstract: A device (1) simulates the recoil of a firearm and has a breechblock (60) with a knockover slide (63). To avoid freezing up and outward emissions, a control mechanism controls a hydraulic working piston in working connection with the breechblock (60). A valve pressure lever (11) is deflected by movement of the knockover slide (63) to open a pressure valve (20), as a result of which fluid is fed to the working piston. The valve (20) has a movable separating piston (14) separating a hydraulic chamber (13) tightly from a gas chamber (17) filled with compressed gas. The separating piston (14) is acted on by the compressed gas. The working piston at the end of an adjusting movement brings about the closing of the valve (20) and opening of a discharge valve. The hydraulic fluid is guided, with open discharge valve, from the working piston into a return chamber (24).

Abstract: An adapter device for use in a combat training system communicates between an anti-personnel training device and a user monitoring device in a training exercise. The anti-personnel training device may be a simulated improvised explosive device including a trigger and an output arranged to output a simulated attack, for example light and sound representative of an explosion, in response to activation of the trigger. The user monitoring device, for example existing training products, such as the Stressvest™ system, the IR Tactical system™, or the MILES™ system, is worn by a user and includes an input which receives a hit signal indicative of the user being hit and an indicator output arranged to indicate the user has been hit. The adapter device has an input sensor to sense the simulated attack of the anti-personnel training device and a signal output to output a hit signal detectable by the user monitoring device.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a method of simulating combat described herein comprises emitting a first query beam from a first query unit of a first interoperable identification and communication system, receiving the first query beam with a second response unit of a second interoperable identification and communication system, emitting a second response beam with the second response unit, and receiving the second response beam with the first query unit. In some embodiments, a method of simulating combat comprises emitting a query beam comprising a plurality of packets each comprising a header portion, an information portion, and a footer portion from a query unit; and receiving the query beam with a response unit comprising a plurality of detectors spatially separated from one another, wherein the response unit is operable to independently measure the intensity of each packet of the query beam received at each of the plurality of detectors.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic training system includes a firing block assembly housed in a first container, a pressure-armed trigger module having two triggers housed in a second container, and a power pack/switch system that connects the firing block assembly and triggers. The first and second containers are remote from each other, and may be made from common objects that might be found in combat zones. Quick-release pins inserted through components of the firing block prevents their separation by exploding ordinance within the firing block, maintaining close electrical contacts within the firing block. The pressure-armed triggers employ a mechanical system that energizes an electrical circuit when pressure is released. Such triggers are arranged such that opening or moving the container triggers an explosion at the remote firing block assembly.

Abstract: A system and method uses three-dimensional, visual feedback for simulated weapons fire during training of a soldier in a combat exercise. In the system, the soldier is provided with a weapon equipped with a laser transmitter that simulates the firing of actual rounds. Further, sensors are positioned on a human target. Also, discharge members are located on the human target. When a signal is received by a sensor, selected discharge members are activated to immediately expel a plume of dust. As a result, the plume of expelled dust provides three-dimensional, visual feedback to the soldier in real-time.

Abstract: A device combining a gun and target for facilitating a game of tag using infrared light communications and augmented reality with one or more players is provided. The device includes infrared transmitters and infrared receivers to facilitate omni-directional two-way communication between two or more devices and a shaped housing facilitating handling of the device by a user. The housing includes a grip portion with a finger-operable trigger and a barrel portion. A mobile electronic device is used as an accessory to provide single player and multiplayer augmented reality game play and a user-interface including a display and a touch screen for programming the device and controlling various game and device functions.

Abstract: A shooting simulation system and method. The system includes a plurality of firearms. Each firearm is held by a separate player and includes a man-worn computer, an optical system associated with the firearm for capturing an image. The image provides information on a trajectory of a simulated bullet fired from a shooting firearm. The system determines if the captured image is a hit or a miss of targeted player and informs a man-worn computer of the targeted player of a hit by the shooting firearm. The determination if the captured image is a hit or miss and identity of the targeted player may include utilizing various types of information, such as the location of the shooting firearm and the targeted player, orientation of the shooting firearm, trajectory of the projected ammunition of the shooting firearm, terrain data and atmospheric conditions.

Abstract: A laser-based system is useful for training soldiers in the operation and use of a grenade launcher. The system comprises a training assembly rotatably attached to the body of a grenade launcher and at least one sensor to detect laser energy at a target site. The training assembly comprises a housing; a variable output laser; a shaft extending through the housing to the body of the grenade launcher; a motor within the housing that engages the shaft and is capable of causing the housing to rotate about the shaft; at least one sensor to detect rotation of the housing, trigger pull, and/or gravitational direction; and a control unit operationally connected to the laser, the at least one sensor, and the motor. The training assembly rotates from the elevation of the launcher barrel to the elevation of the target site to generate a burst of laser energy at sensors at the target site.

Abstract: An alignment device for a weapon that generates a simulation beam and an alignment beam used to align the simulation beam with the weapon's sight. The device can be secured to the weapon during the alignment process, after which it can be removed. The device includes a housing that can be mounted on the weapon so that its optical receiving port intersects both the optical alignment beam generated by the optical transmitter and the sighting axis of the weapon's sight. The optical receiving port includes an optical arrangement for receiving the alignment beam and focusing it on a projection screen located inside the housing. An image of the alignment beam on the projection screen can be viewed through the sight. The alignment beam is parallel to the simulation beam. Thus, by centering the alignment beam in the sight, the alignment beam, and hence the simulation beam, will be properly aligned.

Abstract: A shooting toy used in a game for two or more players capable of allowing an opponent player to reliably receive an infrared ray signal even in an open air, e.g., under a scorching sun. The intensity of light included in a particular wavelength region around a toy is detected by an optical sensor 27. If the detected amount of light included in the particular wavelength region is large, an infrared ray signal generating section 31 increases the intensity of the infrared ray signal to be generated, whereas if the detected amount of light included in the particular wavelength region is small, the infrared signal generating section 31 decreases the intensity of the infrared ray signal to be generated. This prevents the infrared ray signal reception capability from being affected by the light included in the particular wavelength region around the toy.

Abstract: This application details a device which utilizes the controlled, explosive release of a pressurized fluid to simulate the effects of an explosive event.

Abstract: The invention discloses a toy landmine comprising a housing, a generating means, and a triggering means; the triggering means includes a rammer for striking the container to release the gas, and a delay mechanism; the delay mechanism includes a base, a switching member for limiting the rammer, a sliding rod for controlling the switching member, and a movable plate for lifting the sliding rod; an intermediate part of the sliding rod has a diameter larger than that of its lower part, and a truncated conical surface is provided between the parts for smooth transition; the movable plate has one end hinged on the bottom of the base and is located below the sliding rod. With the delay mechanism, a smoke effect is generated after the upper lid is entirely opened, so that the upper lid will not be subjected damage and the smoke effect gets better.

Abstract: A Universal Hands-On Trainer (UHOT) for use with an interactive training simulator and software plug-in that provides the “fit” and “function” of a piece of equipment provided with tactical handgrips but not the “form”. The UHOT has an assembled shape and structure that is both scaled-down and different from that of the real piece of equipment. Because the UHOT does not replicate the “form” of any piece of equipment, the UHOT is not limited to training only one piece of equipment. Different tactical handgrips may be attached to the UHOT to provide training with the correct “fit” for a wide variety of equipment. The UHOT may be provided with a universal interface and various adapters to attach different tactical handgrips.

Abstract: A non-pyrotechnic cueing device for use in non-lethal gunfire activities. The cueing device includes a fluid container for containing a fluid, and a fluid discharge assembly in communication with the fluid container. The fluid discharge assembly is adapted to force the fluid from the fluid container through an opening of the fluid container upon activation. A trigger having an engaged position with respect to the fluid discharge assembly and a disengaged position with respect to the fluid discharge assembly is adapted to activate the fluid discharge assembly upon movement to the disengaged position. A thermally responsive non-pyrotechnic trigger actuator is coupled to the trigger and is adapted to selectively move the trigger to the disengaged position.

Abstract: Embodiments include a non-pyrotechnic detonation simulator. The simulator includes a substrate, a plurality of capacitors fixed with respect to the substrate, a voltage source, and a controller. The controller is electrically coupled to the capacitors and is adapted to selectively direct a burst voltage from the voltage source to one or more of the capacitors to cause the one or more of the plurality of capacitors to burst.

Abstract: A system and method for an automated improvised explosive device training is disclosed. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the system utilizes an IED mock-up that embeds a processor and wireless modem. A separate processor and wireless modem is embedded in a trainee unit. A wireless network interface is provided, allowing for communication between the IED and trainee processors. Upon a simulated detonation, the IED processor queries each trainee unit for their current position using a wireless local area network message. The IED processor is configured to determine distance differentiation and casualty assessment data based on received signal strength of exchanged wireless messages or GPS coordinates. The trainee processor is configured to automatically signal casualty status to the trainee based on casualty assessment data.

Abstract: A system for aligning a simulator arranged for firing a mounted on a weapon. The simulator has a radiation source arranged so as to emit a beam along a simulation axis, and for adjusting the simulation axis so that it is aligned with the weapon sight. The system includes a sighting mark at which the weapon sight is to be aimed during alignment, and a device arranged in connection with the sighting mark to emit beam along an axis representing an aligned simulation axis. The system further includes an aligning unit that is deployable at the simulator and in which at least a first part of the beam from the element is reflected along an axis representing the current position of the simulation axis.

Abstract: An edged weapon training device. The device has a handle portion for gripping by a training subject. A blade portion has at least one exposed contact portion. The contact portion includes a marking device which leaves a mark when it touches an opponent during martial arts or other edged weapon training activities.

Abstract: Hand position monitoring systems and methods for use with firearms. The hand monitoring system monitors a hand position of a firearm user and includes a sensor assembly and a controller. The sensor assembly acquires hand position information (e.g., index or trigger finger position information) of a firearm user and electronically communicates the hand position information for review and/or analysis.