Self-propelled Projectile Patents (Class 434/12)
  • Patent number: 11927429
    Abstract: A system for firing a projectile mounted on a carrier, the decision assistance system comprising: a first simulator for simulating a navigation system of the carrier and configured to produce a precision of a solution for navigation of the carrier; a second simulator for simulating a navigation system of the projectile and configured to be initialized with the precision of the solution for navigation of the carrier and produce a precision of a solution for navigation of the projectile; and a selector configured to select or not the projectile as projectile to be fired as a function of the precision of a solution for navigation of the projectile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Assignee: SAFRAN ELECTRONICS & DEFENSE
    Inventors: Alexandre Bouvet, Laurent Goumy, Yoann Chevalier
  • Patent number: 9443415
    Abstract: A method for disseminating information regarding a problem and administering medical interventions comprises providing a mobile device wirelessly connectable to a network, receiving and storing contact information corresponding to a designated list of information recipients, receiving, via the mobile device and via the wireless trigger transmitting to the mobile device, a signal from a user indicating the problem, receiving, via the mobile device, information regarding the problem, transmitting an indication of the problem to a rescue clearinghouse via the network, prompting a participant of the rescue clearinghouse, different from the user, to make a decision about a course of action regarding the problem, and at least one of transmitting the information regarding the problem to the information recipients from the designated list and transmitting the information regarding the problem to a government rescue organization, based at least in part on the decision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Nepo
  • Patent number: 9445208
    Abstract: Various embodiments associated with a commencement sound and a conclusion sound are described. The commencement sound can be a firing sound, such as a sound of a bullet exiting a rifle. The conclusion sound can be an impact sound, such as a sound of the bullet impacting a concrete wall. These sounds can replicate what it sounds like to have an experience around someone without actually subjecting that person to the experience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Naomi Esther Zirkind
  • Patent number: 8967032
    Abstract: A smart-store emulation unit is provided for use on-board a weapon platform in place of the physical presence of a smart-store. The emulation unit may be used for operator training on or testing of the smart-store on-board an operational weapon platform such as an aircraft, tank or ship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Edward H. Campbell
  • Patent number: 8970355
    Abstract: An article is worn by a user. A plurality of indicating devices are coupled to the article. A processing unit is communicatively coupled to the plurality of indicating devices. The processing unit selectively actuates at least one indicating device of the plurality of indicating devices based on positional data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: HE Boeing Company
    Inventors: Benjamin Alan Stensland, David Mark McClelland, Kevin Luke Mace
  • Patent number: 8834163
    Abstract: A network connects stations in a distributed physics based simulation system. When the simulation detects that a weapon, especially a missile or directed energy beam, is engaging a target vehicle, one physics station determines damage status of the target vehicle. The detonation or strike of the weapon is applied to a model of the vehicle composed of pieces each made up of a number of parts. Where the damage to a piece of the vehicle exceeds a predetermined threshold, the piece is removed from the vehicle, and where a predetermined maximum damage is reached for the vehicle, the vehicle is considered destroyed. The damage assessment from the weapon is made using raytracing in a physics engine that is also used to control movement of virtual objects in the simulation according to rules of physics of the physics engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: L-3 Communications Corporation
    Inventors: Eytan Pollak, Jack Charles Wells, II, Merrill Lay
  • Patent number: 8827706
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing firearms training without using traditional firearms. Replicas of firearms have control systems in communication with magazines inserted into the replicas to control the number of rounds that can be fired for each magazine. The control systems can also monitor, record and communicate data relating to all use of the replica to centralized control units. Additionally, the control systems can include location sensors to monitor the location of the replicas and only authorize firing of the replicas in approved locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Practical Air Rifle Training Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Richard Russell Hogan, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8714979
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: James Victor Leonard, Robert Kastner Menzel, Richard E. Meyer, Aaron L. Eggemeyer, Joshua Ryan Pollema, William J. Ebert, III
  • Patent number: 8403672
    Abstract: A training target is described for electronically controlled devices or weapons such as a TaserĀ® gun. The target includes a front sheet having an electrically conductive sheet positioned at the back side thereof with the target being in the shape of a substantially life-size human being. The image of the human being is printed on the front face of the front sheet. The sheets may be reversed so that the image is printed on the electronically conductive sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Tim Odorisio
  • Patent number: 8280302
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device and a method for communication, and a program that makes it possible to provide a communication environment not limited by a use environment. An electrode controlling unit 261 in a transmitting device 260 checks a state of capacitive coupling of each of an electrode 271 and an electrode 272 in an electrode unit 262 with surroundings, controls connection of each electrode to a transmitting unit 263 according to a result of the check, and makes the electrode 271 and the electrode 272 function as a transmission signal electrode or a transmission reference electrode, the transmission signal electrode and the transmission reference electrode being different from each other. The transmitting unit 263 connects the electrode 271 and the electrode 272 to an amplifying unit under control of the electrode controlling unit 261, and transmits a signal to a communication medium 280 via one of the electrodes. The present invention is applicable to communication systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Fumio Kubono, Susumu Kusakabe, Yoshihito Ishibashi
  • Patent number: 8105087
    Abstract: A system (1) for detecting and recording impacts produced by shock waves and/or by non-lethal projectiles on the surface of a target (2), includes: a) a plurality of sensors (3i) applied to the target (2) and capable of detecting the said impacts and generating and transmitting a signal detectable by a transceiver device (4); b) a transceiver device (4), also fixed to the target (2), and capable of receiving the signals generated by the said sensors (3i), detecting which of the sensors has emitted a signal, and sending the corresponding data to a recording apparatus (5); c) a recording apparatus (5) capable of recording and storing the data received from the transceiver device (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Cybergun S.A.
    Inventor: Stefano Valentini
  • Publication number: 20100209880
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Inventors: James Victor Leonard, Robert Kastner Menzel, Richard E. Meyer, Aaron L. Eggemeyer, William J. Ebert, II, William J. Ebert, III, Joshua Ryan Pollema
  • Patent number: 7628688
    Abstract: An image data generator of this game apparatus generates, in a combat state, combat image data to display player's combat elements that executes a combat and opponent's combat elements fighting with the player's combat elements on the display unit in real time. This game comprises a distance detector that detects a distance between the player's combat element and the opponent's combat element at the time of changing a normal state to the combat state, and displays an initial image at the beginning of the combat state in accordance with the distance therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventor: Masahiro Hinami
  • Publication number: 20080206718
    Abstract: A weapon flyout simulation method, system, and computer program product, includes modeling a target as a plurality of ellipsoidal zones corresponding to a plurality of zones on the target, and performing hit/miss assessment on the target by determining if said trajectory of the weapon interferes with at least one of said plurality of ellipsoids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: AAI Corporation
    Inventors: James Joseph Jaklitsch, Adam Fletcher Ehart, Daniel H. Bass
  • Patent number: 7354271
    Abstract: A training grenade having reversed threading connecting the fuze assembly and the housing. A tubular interior of the fuze assembly contains a two part fuze charge being five times the size of the fuze charge in a live grenade. The two part fuze charge consists of a delay charge and an output charge, where the delay charge burns down first and ignites the output charge, whose explosion simulates the explosion of a live grenade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Brunn
  • Patent number: 7024288
    Abstract: A method for generating predictions of rocket motor ballistic performance at specific firing temperatures and for generating data profiles for analysis. The method requires generally available specifications for the rocket motor to be tested and test data from one or more test firings at a known temperature. The method is implemented in software form and generates pressure and thrust versus time data at a selected temperature. The method generates a burnback profile with a correct final web that integrates to the correct final propellant weight as well as a throat area profile and thrust coefficient profile, for the test firing temperature and for the temperature to be predicted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: John M. King
  • Patent number: 6875019
    Abstract: An integrable naval virtual target range system and method provides three-dimensional graphical viewing capabilities of a virtual target range so that naval and fire support personnel can train together during both simulated and live fire exercises. The virtual target range system comprises a control subsystem having a computer system and a spotter subsystem for monitoring virtual impact points on the virtual target range. The target system may further comprise a buoy subsystem and/or an aerial vehicle subsystem, for use during live fire exercises, to locate ordnance impact points used for calculating the virtual impact points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: United Defense, LP
    Inventors: Paul C. Huang, Norman S. Scott, Omar A. Khan, Albert Sleder, Jr., David C. Heim
  • Patent number: 6813593
    Abstract: A simulator for simulating the firing of a weapon at one or more targets, each target having a respective shape. The simulator includes a housing substantially identical in size and shape to at least a discrete portion of the weapon. The simulator further includes a sensor, operationally connected to the housing, for acquiring a number of images of at least one of the targets. The simulator also includes an image processor for detecting and analyzing change among the images and for initiating control signals based on the analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Rafael-Armament Development Authority Ltd.
    Inventor: Yossi Berger
  • Patent number: 6530782
    Abstract: A launcher training system includes a housing shaped to resemble a projectile launcher. A hollowed-out portion of the housing defines a boresight axis. An optical sight is coupled to the housing such that the boresight axis and the optical sight's line-of-sight are fixed in relation to one another. The optical sight further defines a sight field-of-view (FOV) with a first reticle appearing therein. An imaging means in the hollowed-out portion of the housing generates an image in an image FOV thereof. Video signal transmitter are provided to transmit signals indicative of the image over the air waves. A remotely-located receiver station is provided to reproduce the image with a second reticle being overlaid thereon. The imaging means are adjustably positioned such that the image FOV is sighted along the boresight axis and such that the second reticle overlaid on the reproduced image appears at the same position as the first reticle in the sight FOV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Timothy M. Fouse, Michael M. Canaday, Vincent J. Vendetti
  • Patent number: 6450817
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for simulating the danger posed by mines or hand grenades to one or several participants in a military exercise. At least one weaponry simulator simulating a mine or a hand grenade and the sensor devices allocated to the individual participants are used and the effect of mines or hand grenades is simulated by transmitting data between the weaponry simulator and the sensor devices of the participants. According to the invention, data is transmitted through two-way radio communication between the weaponry simulator and the sensor devices of the individual participants. Radio transmission from the individual sensor devices of the participants to the weaponry simulator is carried out in the near field zone of the transmitting and receiving antennae involved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Dornier GmbH
    Inventor: Rudolf Deinlein
  • Patent number: 6296486
    Abstract: A simulator for simulating the firing of weapons the simulator including a firing station, and a missile weapon simulator. The missile weapon simulator able to simulate imaginary firings, an image display device, an image processing device, and an instructor station. The instructor station includes a video screen associated with a decision device by which an instructor chooses a virtual scenario relating to a firing field, the type of the missile and firing conditions. The image display device displays virtual images in actual size representing a field of vision of a firer in the virtual scenario chosen by the instructor, a micromonitor placed upon the missile weapon simulator displays the same images as those of the display device. The image processing device generates images within the instructor station, the images displayed on the micromonitor, and the images displayed on the display device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: Aerospatiale Societe Nationale Industrielle
    Inventors: Emmanuel Cardaillac, Laƫtitia Weber
  • Patent number: 6254394
    Abstract: An area weapons effect simulation system and method that determine the extent of simulated injuries and damage sustained by players such as soldiers and vehicles as a consequence of simulated mines, projectiles, air defenses, and toxic or nuclear clouds in near real time. The system uses a distributed architecture that simulates the effect that area weapons would have on each player in real time or near real time, thus allowing players to determine the consequences of their tactics and actions as a part of a combat training exercise. Player Units are pre-loaded with information which allows them to determine the probability of damage or injury, depending on the type of player, defensive measures taken on the part of the player, and the type of weapon being simulated. Alternatively, such information may be down-loaded to each Player Unit as necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Cubic Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert L. Draper, Dennis D. Rogers
  • Patent number: 6193517
    Abstract: A simulator for front-loaded barrel weapons, e.g. a mine thrower simulator, is provided with an outlet opening at the lower end of the launcher tube through which the shots, e.g. grenades, exit the launcher tube, thus allowing realistic training conditions. Both the ammunition and the simulator preferably comprise sensors and controls which collect the data from the sensors and perform a first evaluation. The results are transmitted to a computer in the custody of the trainer, which delivers the final evaluation and the calculation of the point of impact, inter alia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: SE Schweizerische Elektronikunternehmung
    Inventor: RenƩ Lazecki
  • Patent number: 5624264
    Abstract: A missile launch simulator for testing the launch of a missile from a mise launcher on board an aircraft. The missile launch simulator emulates the functions of the missile's on board turbo generator by utilizing microprocessor controlled relays to provide phase A, phase B and phase C gyro drive signals to the missile's gyro when the umbilical cord connecting the missile to the launcher is opened during an emulated launch. The missile launch simulator also provides high voltage power to the missile's on board electronics after an emulated launch by utilizing microprocessor controlled relays and the missile launcher filament power to emulate the turbo generator's high voltage power signal which powers the missile's on board electronics after the missile is launched from the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Christian L. Houlberg
  • Patent number: 5498160
    Abstract: The disclosure is of a projectile having a main body, a nose and a tail iuding a flared tail member, the projectile having its center of gravity close to the nose thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1996
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Anthony Farina, Mark Young
  • Patent number: 5415548
    Abstract: In an improved system and method for simulating targets in which a target is moved across a background, background information and target information are stored in separate memories. Selected target information is supplied to selected background to create the simulation. The target memory contains two buffers which enables one frame of target information to be updated as a preceding frame is transmitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventor: Robert A. Adams
  • Patent number: 5344319
    Abstract: An airborne wind-driven electrical generator provides electrical current to the resistance wire of a smoke generator, which receives a smoke-producing fluid from a reservoir. A valve controls the flow of fluid to the smoke generator in response to control signals, which may indicate a simulated weapon firing or simulated weapon hit in an airborne weapon training system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1994
    Assignee: Cubic Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Walter R. Manzke
  • Patent number: 5292254
    Abstract: A method for a minefield simulation includes a number of troops and vehicles each including a player detection device or vehicle detection device respectively. The player detection devices and vehicle detection devices determine and transmit their respective locations to a central computer. The central computer or player determines whether the player is within an activation radius of a mine in the minefield. The central computer or player has established a bit map of the minefield with indications of the exact placement of the mines within the minefield. If a player (troop or vehicle) is within the activation radius of a mine, the central computer or player records the identity of the expended mine in the minefield bit map by changing its indication from active to inactive. Either central computer or the player detection device may determine the effects of the expended mine upon the troop or vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph R. Miller, Craig T. Griffin
  • Patent number: 5257936
    Abstract: Completely inert training grenade intended to be fired by a rifle and a propellant cartridge, comprising a metal tube (1) equipped with a rear stabilizing tail unit (2) and with a front solid part (3) which closes off the tube. This front part (3) carries a hollow nose (4) containing a marking substance (5), this nose (4) being fastened removably by engagement to the front solid part (3) of the tube. The nose (4) is sufficiently resistant to withstand the shot, but is destructible on impact. The solid front part (3) of the tube is produced in one piece with the tube, the diameter of this part being substantially equal to or slightly larger than that of the rest of the tube. The nose (4) engaged on this solid front part has an inner annular shoulder (11) bearing on the front surface (3a) of the solid part (3) of the tube, and the front end of the nose (4) is flat. The nose (4) is shaped so that its wall can break in the event of its impact on the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Assignee: Luchaire Defense S.A.
    Inventors: Francois Ambrosi, Pierre Laurent, Thierry Dupre
  • Patent number: 5228855
    Abstract: An improved mortar training ammunition device is characterized by a propulsion module which can be altered for short range and full range operation. The module includes a stabilizer tube containing spaced groups of openings which are selectively opened or closed by rings mounted on the tube. Propelling charges are mounted on the rings. By selecting simulated or active propelling charges and the condition of the openings, the device can be used for garrison or field training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Assignee: FFE International
    Inventor: John J. Frost
  • Patent number: 5224860
    Abstract: A "hardware-in-the-loop" simulator (10) for training people in the use of a missile system to teach target acquisition, missile launch, and missile guidance under simulated battlefield conditions. A battlefield environment (E) including at least one target (T) movable therewithin is created by a simulation module (12). Missile system hardware (H) including the missile acquisition, tracking, and guidance portions is provided. An interface module (20) converts signals produced by the simulating module to an infrared image acceptable by the hardware. The resultant image represents a field-of-view (FOV), including the target, within the battlefield environment. An image module (32) produces a dynamic image representative of the missile's position in the field-of-view. This image is observable by the hardware which utilizes it to determine the position of the missile relative to the target. The hardware also determines if a missile guidance signal is to be sent to the missile to guide it to the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1993
    Assignee: Electronics & Space Corp.
    Inventors: Gary S. Waldman, John R. Wootton, Gregory L. Hobson, David L. Holder
  • Patent number: 5074793
    Abstract: A mine effects simulator system for simulating the operation and encounter f land mines and their potential effects on an armored vehicle. The system utilizes an authentic land mine activation mechanism, radio transmitter and logic circuitry and provides a radio frequency signal when activated by the proximity of an armored vehicle. The armored vehicle has a receiver device which receives the signal to determine a "hit" or "kill" based upon the time of the mine detonation with respect to mine to vehicle position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Harry N. Hambric, Wilfred J. Gregson, II, James D. Lundin, Kenneth V. Strittmatter, Lawrence A. Koster
  • Patent number: 5069399
    Abstract: This invention relates to a target which is towed by an aircraft to simulate the approach of an aircraft, missile or similar threat to a Defence System, to provide realistic practice for the Defence System. In accordance with this invention there is provided a target that is connected by a cable to a tow aircraft and towed by the aircraft toward a Defence System at a low approach altitude. The target has flight surfaces that, in combination with the mass of the target, cause the target to be towed at a substantially lower altitude than the tow aircraft. This allows direct ground or sea skimming approach by the target as the tow aircraft overflys the Defence System. The target is provided with a cable release means that releases the target at a predetermined safety range, whereupon the cable rises to a free streaming height and clears the Defence System.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Assignee: The Commonwealth of Australia
    Inventor: Paul R. Robinson
  • Patent number: 4682952
    Abstract: An arrangement for facilitating the training of personnel in the handling of recoilless rifles which includes an accessory for insertion into the rifle launcher for giving it the same weight and center of gravity as a loaded launcher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1987
    Assignee: Honeywell Inc.
    Inventor: Allyn J. Forsman
  • Patent number: 4681017
    Abstract: A practice ammunition system for a rocket launcher having a guide tube for receiving an original rocket, the original rocket including an ignition device which, prior to launch, performs a data exchange via at least one data line with an external fire control unit for the rocket launcher. The practice ammunition system includes a practice rocket having a rocket engine and an igniter for igniting the rocket engine thereof, the practice rocket being insertable in the guide tube of the rocket launcher, a simulator external to the practice rocket arranged for connection with the practice rocket and the fire control unit with the external simulator, after connection with the training rocket and the fire control unit, simulating functions of the ignition device of the original rocket for performing a data exchange dwith the fire control unit and for enabling launching of the practice rocket from the rocket launcher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1987
    Assignee: Dynamit Nobel Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Nikolaus H. J. Fischer, Christoph Mathey, Rainer Schoffl
  • Patent number: 4679342
    Abstract: The invention is a flexible, plastic sheet which, in one embodiment thereof, is uniplanar and has tactually-sensitive indicia fixed thereon, and adhesive strips are arrayed in adjacency to edges thereof. The sheet is adhesively emplaced over the only visually-sensitive or visually-discriminatory controls on a control panel to render the controls tactually-sensitive or tactually-discriminatory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1987
    Inventor: Donna Wilson
  • Patent number: 4575026
    Abstract: A deceleration sled to decelerate and safely contain a launched test miss. The sled has crushable honeycomb which absorbs the initial impact of the missile as the sled accelerates along a track to the same speed as the missile. As the deceleration sled is pushed down the rails, forming shoes on both sides of the sled engage flat metal plates. The forming shoes roll the flat plates into a "U" shape. The energy required to roll these plates can be changed by varying their thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1986
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Harold G. Brittain, Charles B. Brantley
  • Patent number: 4552533
    Abstract: A sophisticated computer controlled trainer and simulator for weapons using separate background, target, and missile projectors with active interaction between them all. The control computer synchronizes the output of the plurality of projectors so as to occult their individual objects and images. The system permits real time intervention and control by an instructor, and recording of each entire exercise for later replay and study.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1985
    Assignee: Invertron Simulated Systems Limited
    Inventor: Dennis A. Walmsley
  • Patent number: 4538991
    Abstract: Target apparatus for use in the training of weapon direct fire, including a structure (1) in which a weapon can be placed and which forms a screen (3) of concave truncated spherical shape, at least one target image projector (4 ) located within the structure (1) for projecting a target image (T) onto the screen (3), with the projector (4) being mounted for universal movement so as to be capable of moving the projected target image (T) over the screen (3), and a visible laser projector (8) located on or adjacent the weapon to produce a visual indication (P) on the screen (3) by a projected beam of visible light, of at least a final portion of the flight path of the simulated fired projectile or missile, corresponding to the position at which the weapon was aimed when fired, for a projectile or missile whose trajectory or flight path cannot be controllably varied after firing, or corresponding to the position at which the weapon was aimed when fired and as subsequently controllably varied, for a projectile or m
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1981
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1985
    Assignee: Detras Training Aids Limited
    Inventors: Anthony Simpson, Stuart M. Peterkin, Brian T. Brooksby, Harold J. Murray
  • Patent number: 4534735
    Abstract: The simulation device provides training in the firing of rockets or guided missiles by means of a shoulder weapon. As soon as a shot is fired, the firer's field of view is occulted by a shutter. The aim at the instant of firing and the point of impact with respect to the target are displayed on an instructor's video screen. The target can be of a fictitious type generated by a computer and produced within the field of view of both the instructor and the firer at the same time. In the case of a real target, an index can be controlled by the instructor in order to locate the target and follow its progress up to the instant of firing. The result of the firing operation is judged according to the position of the point of impact with respect to the fictitious target or with respect to the index. The choice of the mode of operation is made on a control desk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1985
    Assignee: Giravions Dorand
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Allard, Rene Briard, Christian Saunier
  • Patent number: 4465464
    Abstract: It is proposed to construct a low cost simulated ballistic missile for training purposes or as a military decoy. The invention contemplates the use of standard I-beams, reinforced pipe, and cement filler to provided missile stages that duplicate the weight and overall dimensions of the actual missile stages. The beams are welded into a columnar cross-sectional shape sized to fit into the reinforced pipe. Principal advantage of the invention is the achievement of a structurally strong simulated missile at relatively low manufacturing cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1984
    Inventor: George R. Schoenberg
  • Patent number: 4449939
    Abstract: A safe-arm simulator device for use in training personnel in maintaining operating a missile rocket motor fuze safe-arm device of the type presently utilized on live missiles is disclosed. The device comprises a spring mounted on a rotatable shaft contained within a cylindrical housing. The housing is inserted in a bored hole of a dummy missile, exposing a key slot in the base of the shaft. A key is mounted on the device for turning the device from a safe to arm position. The spring offers resistance to turning similarly incurred in a live safe-arm device and likewise returns and maintains the device in a safe orientation unless locked in the arm position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: William R. Matteson
  • Patent number: 4447211
    Abstract: A portable apparatus having the shape, and intended to simulate the firing, f an actual rocket launcher. The simulated portable rocket launcher, used in conjunction with a laser device, comprises a tubular casing having mounted thereon an aiming device. A unit of similar shape designed to be inserted in said casing, has front and rear end plates between which extends a bar surrounded by a spiral spring, an annular shaped mass representing a rocket being movably mounted through its annulus on said bar. Locking and triggering means are provided to secure the mass to the rear end plate in a ready-to-fire position, while a resilient stop member for the movable mass is provided at the front end plate. Activation of the triggering means releases the mass from the rear end plate and activates the laser device which directs a beam on the target. Movement of the mass along the bar is terminated at the front end plate by the resilient stop means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 8, 1984
    Assignee: Precitronic Gesellschaft fur Feinmechanik und Electronic mbH
    Inventors: Bernd M. Kern, Werner Hasse
  • Patent number: 4439155
    Abstract: End caps for a launch environment simulator apparatus are provided which add realism to the firing simulation by producing smoke and a small amount of debris. The end caps serve to retain a combustible gas mixture within the apparatus prior to firing. Upon firing the end caps are consumed, producing the smoke and debris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1981
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1984
    Assignee: McDonnell Douglas Corporation
    Inventor: George W. Roe
  • Patent number: 4439156
    Abstract: A training device for simulated anti-armor weapons system utilizes a microcessor system to perform a number of functions including solving dynamic flight equations of a simulated missile and determining the gunner's aiming error. A miniature terrain board having a miniature target with an infrared source provides the aim point for a gunner using a simulated weapon launcher. An infrared sensing device mounted in the weapon provides input to the microprocessor while a CCTV provides an instructor with a gunner's view. Sound, visibility, and recoil associated with weapons use are simulated by peripheral devices under the control of the microprocessor. The gunner's aiming error and view are displayed in real time on an instructor's console which provides for instructor input and recording of gunner performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1984
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Albert H. Marshall, Herbert C. Towle, Gary M. Bond, Bon F. Shaw
  • Patent number: 4362145
    Abstract: A practice device which allows the simulation of firing of a weapon such as a light antitank weapon wherein the weapon can be fired in an armory for practice by soldiers without requiring the actual tactical missile to be fired which requires a large firing range with extreme protection of personnel. The invention comprises attaching a gas powered pellet gun within the barrel of the missile launcher and loading such pellet gun with a round of ammunition after which the gun is cocked and the weapon is sighted toward a target provided therefore and the pellet gun is fired with a suitable trigger for simulating and practicing actual use of the weapon. When the trigger is depressed it causes a solenoid to be momentarily energized, which draws a sear away from a firing cylinder causing actuation of a valve to fire the pellet gun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1980
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1982
    Assignee: Kinetronics Corporation
    Inventor: William N. Stelcher
  • Patent number: 4326847
    Abstract: Firing and subsequent aiming-tracking of a tube-launched projectile are realistically simulated by a launch environment simulator comprising a launch tube, means for delivering a combustible gas mixture to the launch tube, means for igniting the gas within the tube, an effectively orificed end plate disposed at the rear end of the tube to provide realistic recoil upon firing, and confining end caps at both ends of the tube which disintegrate upon ignition of the gas mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1979
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1982
    Assignee: McDonnell Douglas Corporation
    Inventor: George W. Roe
  • Patent number: 4290757
    Abstract: A weapons simulator for training a marksman on an anti-armor weapon. The pons simulator includes first and second broadcasting means for projecting on a reflective display screen a background scene, a visual target, and an infrared target spot in alignment with the visual target, and a two-axis laser spot positioning servo system for moving the aligned visual target and infrared target spot upon the reflective display screen. A matrix detector mounted within the weapon will sense the position of the infrared target spot upon the reflective display screen whenever the marksman fires the weapon, and then supply to a microprocessor computer digital information indicative of the position of the infrared target spot upon the reflective display screen. The microprocessor computer, in turn, processes the digital information so as to determine whether the marksman has scored a hit, a miss, or near miss upon the visual target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1980
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1981
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Albert H. Marshall, Herbert C. Towle