Training Apparatus Using Beam Of Infrared, Visible Light, Or Ultraviolet Radiation Patents (Class 434/21)
  • Patent number: 6890178
    Abstract: A gun suitable for games is disclosed for permitting an operator to recognize when a trigger is pulled. A target signal receiver receives a target signal sent from a target for causing the gun to recognize that the gun is opposite the target, and notifies a controller that the target signal receiver has received the target signal. Upon detection of a manipulation by the operator, the controller a forces shooting device to perform a shooting operation, and instructs an information generator to generate recognition information. The shooting device emits an optical bullet formed of a light ray. The recognition information generator drives a solenoid to bring associated members into impact against each other to permit the operator to recognize that the operation has been performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: NEC Corporatiion
    Inventors: Junichi Gouko, Hiroshi Watanabe
  • Patent number: 6887079
    Abstract: An alignment device for alignment of a weapon and a weapon simulator mounted on the weapon. The weapon is provided with a sight and the weapon simulator is equipped with a first device arranged to emit an electromagnetic simulator beam exiting along a simulator axis. The alignment apparatus includes a second device arranged to generate an alignment beam along an alignment axis. The angle between the simulator axis and the alignment axis is fixed and known. A reflection device is arranged to reflect the alignment beam into the sight. An adjuster is arranged to collectively guide the alignment axis and the simulator axis during the alignment of the simulator axis with the sight so that the axes during the alignment maintain the fixed relative angular relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: SAAB Training Systems AB
    Inventors: Hans Robertsson, Arnold Fredriksson
  • Patent number: 6863532
    Abstract: Equipment for detecting that a target has received a direct hit from a simulated weapon including a weapon (10, 30) and a target (11, 12, 38, 45), and characterized in that said weapon (10, 30) provides an emitter of signals or laser shots (14, 33) operated by a switch (16, 35) and a trigger (18, 36), and in that said target includes sensors (19, 20, 38a, 41-44) affixed to a supporting element (12, 11, 38, 45). Said sensors are operatively connected to an electronic detection circuit for a signal or laser shot received by the same sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Inventor: Franco Ambrosoli
  • Patent number: 6840772
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for evaluating electronic impacts or shots of fired shots in a shooting range for sportsmen and for hunter training. The target to be shot at is provided as a light spot and is projected onto a target wall (1) via a light source in such a way that said target can move in all directions. An infrared camera (7) records the shooting image on the target wall (1) for evaluating the impact. The aim of the invention is to increase accuracy and reduce the evaluation time. Target co-ordinates arm detected while the target is being provided. Said target coordinates arm compared to the impact co-ordinates obtained by means of the impact evaluation. An impact is signalled when an impact falls short of a given divergence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Dynamit Nobel GmbH Explosivstoff-und Systemtechnik
    Inventor: Rudolf Pura
  • Patent number: 6821124
    Abstract: A laser based tactical engagement simulation training system, and in particular a MILES type system, is characterized by an improved communication code structure for the system. The improved code word structure comprises a standard MILES code word that is modified to contain information over and above that required to be embodied in a standard MILES code word. This is accomplished by FM modulating the logic level “1” pulses of the standard MILES code word in a manner that embeds additional information in the word and enhances the system, while at the same time maintaining downward compatibility with existing MILES systems. Apparatus also is provided for encoding, transmitting, receiving, decoding and processing information embodying the improved code structure, which significantly enhances tactical engagement simulation for direct fire force-on-force training and that yields more accurate simulation to improve tactical training results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Inventors: Fritz W. Healy, Himanshu N. Parikh
  • Patent number: 6804466
    Abstract: An optical coding system is provided for a data transmission device with at least one laser transmitter and at least one laser receiver. The laser transmitter has a laser device and a code generator, and the laser receiver a detector device and an evaluation circuit. The detector device is designed for detecting a burst sequence (B1, B2, B3, . . . ), wherein the length d of the pulses of a burst is greater than 400 ns, and the length D of a burst consisting of a number b of pulses is less than 1000 &mgr;s.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Contraves Space AG
    Inventors: Moreno Gazzetta, Roger Scherrer, Dietrich Peter Stauffacher
  • Patent number: 6793494
    Abstract: A laser small arms transmitter (SAT) includes a housing having a hollow interior and a clamp structure connected to the housing for rigidly securing the housing to a barrel of a weapon such as an M16A1 rifle. A spyglass shaped metal laser tube is rigidly mounted inside the housing. A lens is mounted in a forward segment of the laser tube and positioned in alignment with a bore in a forward side of the housing. A cylindrical laser diode can is mounted in a rearward segment of the laser tube. A circuit including a photo-optic sensor is mounted inside the housing and selectively energizes the laser diode to cause the same to emit a laser beam through the lens when a blank cartridge is fired. The rear segment of the laser tube is dimensioned and configured so that it can permanently bent to align the laser beam emitted by the laser diode with the barrel of the weapon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Cubic Corporation
    Inventors: Deepak Varshneya, John B. Roes
  • Patent number: 6780014
    Abstract: A pattern testing board is able to detect an emission beam such as a laser or light beam from a shooting system. A pattern testing board includes a plurality of paired emission beam sensors and hit indicators. Each emission beam sensor is responsive to a detected emission beam and each hit indicator signals the sensing of the emission beam by the associated emission beam sensor. Multiple pattern testing boards may be mounted together to provide a larger pattern testing system array. Further, an overlay with a representation thereon, a moving image display system, or a reflective moving image display system may be positioned in front of one or more pattern testing boards. Still further, the pattern testing board may be incorporated in a unique target system that includes the pattern testing board for determining the beam pattern emitted by the beam emitter, a level selection board for selecting a level of play; and a targeting game board having a plurality of targets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Lightshot Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: George R. Hull, Robert M. O'Loughlin, Terry P. O'Loughlin
  • Publication number: 20040146840
    Abstract: A simulated real-time environment employs a plurality of computer controlled video projectors and screens at least fore and aft of a participant-trainee to present life-size displays mutually coordinated to represent views of a same environment from a participant's perspective, each screen representing the participant's view looking in a different direction. In response to a participant's actions, the computer seamlessly changes a projected video to match the participant' actions and maintain a scenario consistent between the two screens. The participant uses a light-emitting simulated firearm or his own firearm loaded with a light-emitting cartridge and/or other equipment with which he is familiar, such as a modified or simulated flashlight, taser, chemical spray container or the like, tethered or untethered by a communication wire, to respond to a simulated situation, which response detected and interpreted by the computer to direct a branch in the projected videos and even shoot back a simulated bullet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventors: Steven G. Hoover, David McLean, Scott E. Martin, George W.T. Haynes, William J. Halley
  • Publication number: 20040076928
    Abstract: The invention concerns an aligning device for a simulator (105) arranged for firing and mounted on a weapon. The weapon has aiming means arranged to indicate the aiming of the weapon in a target area. The simulator is equipped with at least a first element arranged so as to emit an electromagnetic beam along a simulation axis, and adjusting means arranged so as to control the simulation axis in order to align the simulating axis with the aiming means. The device is characterized in that it has means (201) arranged so as to reflect visible light from the beam, and sighting means for alignment that are arranged so as to display a projection of the reflected light superimposed over an image (206) of the target area in an alignment sight window. The projected light is movable within the alignment sight window by means of adjusting means so as to enable placement of the projection at a point at which the aiming means are aimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Per Renntoft
  • Publication number: 20040076927
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a simulator arranged for the simulation of firing, which simulator is intended to be mounted on a weapon with aiming means. The simulator contains an emitter for a simulation bean and an emitting device for an alignment beam, which device contains a reticle arranged in a first focal plane of an optical system. The optical system is characterized in that it contains means for beam-splitting, where the optical system has a second focal plane, and where the emitter for the simulation beam is arranged in an optical path or extension thereof containing the second focal plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Arnold Fredriksson
  • Patent number: 6709272
    Abstract: A method for facilitating firearms training is provided. The method comprises using a client computer system to access via the Internet a retrieval system on a host computer system. The retrieval system is adapted to retrieve a firearms training simulation stored in a computer database upon receiving a signal. The firearms training simulation is adapted to train a trainee in using a firearm. The method further comprises inputting the signal in a manner such that the retrieval system retrieves the firearms training simulation from the database and transfers it to the client computer system in a manner sufficient for the firearms trainee to train with the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Bruce K. Siddle
  • Publication number: 20040014010
    Abstract: A laser transmitter attaches to an arrow emulator secured to a bow and emits a laser pulse in response to bow actuation according to the present invention. The training system further includes a laser-detecting target having a planar array of laser light detectors which detect the location and timing of laser pulses received at the target. Alternatively, the detector may be utilized to detect laser signals impacting a target object, such as a bottle. The laser-detecting target may be connected to a computer which analyzes the target hit information and displays feedback or scoring information. The computer can be connected via a communications network to similar systems so that competitions or training exercises can be conducted across plural geographic locations. The competitions or exercises can be controlled from a central system or unit which may be accessible to individual shooters via an Internet web site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Frederick B. Swensen, Ronald J. Norton, Motti Shechter, Tansel Kendir, Doug Ransom
  • Patent number: 6663391
    Abstract: A spotlighted position detection system and simulator which can eliminate the influence of unnecessary light such as an external light and exactly detect a spotlighted position. There is provided a game machine which comprises: a half mirror as a display screen which transmits a spotlight or an infrared light from a ray gun and reflects a light for images from a CRT; an infrared transmission filter as a light filter which is disposed on a backside of the half mirror and transmits the spotlight but does not transmit an external light; a spotlight screen on which the spotlight transmitted through the half mirror and the infrared transmission filter is projected to form an image, the spotlight screen being disposed at a position near the backside and within the game machine; and a CCD camera which takes a spotlighted area on the spotlight screen corresponding to an image area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Namco Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasuhiro Otowa
  • Publication number: 20030228557
    Abstract: The competition progress or competition results of a competition that is held at each of a plurality of competition sites in which electronic competition systems are installed are transmitted to a relay server by way of the Internet. In the relay server, the competition progress or competition results that have been transmitted in are transmitted to electronic competition systems that are installed in competition sites that have been determined in advance by the transmission source of the competition progress or competition results.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Applicant: NEC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yusuke Abe
  • Patent number: 6647654
    Abstract: A removable cylinder for a revolver according to the present invention includes a plurality of cartridge chambers, each appropriately sized to receive a blank cartridge therein. The cartridge chambers are sealed at their distal end to prevent debris from a fired blank cartridge from entering the revolver barrel. The cylinder may further include passages (e.g., vent ports or grooves) in communication with the cartridge chambers to vent exhaust gases released from the blank cartridges in response to revolver actuation. The revolver may further include a laser transmitter assembly to project a laser beam toward a target in response to revolver actuation to simulate firearm operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Beamhit, LLC
    Inventors: Mike Iten, Chris Harrison, Stephen P. Rosa, Motti Shechter
  • Patent number: 6616452
    Abstract: A firearm laser training system of the present invention includes a target having a plurality of zones, a laser transmitter assembly for projecting a laser beam, a sensing device and a processor. The sensing device scans the target to produce target images to detect laser beam or simulated projectile impact locations. The processor receives impact location information from the sensing device and processes the received information to evaluate user performance and to display evaluation information and an image of the target including indicia corresponding to the detected impact locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Beamhit, LLC
    Inventors: John Clark, Tansel Kendir, Motti Shechter
  • Publication number: 20030157463
    Abstract: A shooting training system has an external trigger switch. A player operates a laser gun, and a coach for the player presses the external trigger switch at the time when the player should trigger the laser gun, while confirming the trajectory of the sight of the laser gun which is displayed on an external PC. A timing signal generated by the external trigger switch is transmitted via the laser gun and a shot impact detector to the external PC, which displays on a simulated image of a target the position of the sight of the laser gun at the timing indicated by the timing signal. The player adjusts the timing to pull the trigger based on the difference between the displayed position of the sight of the laser gun and an actual impact location of a light beam emitted from the laser gun triggered by the player. The player can improve the shooting skill through such timing adjustments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Applicant: NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroshi Watanabe, Tadashi Ando
  • Patent number: 6604064
    Abstract: A simulation system for operation of simulated weapons on moving vehicles includes a platform for supporting a trainee and an actuator operable with the platform for providing pitch and roll movement to the platform in conformance with pre-recorded live movements. A demilitarized weapon is operated from the platform with the weapon providing a weapon triggering signal to a system computer. A pulsed laser light source is attached to the barrel of the weapon for emitting a beam and placing an infrared spot onto a video projection screen which displays a recorded scene provided by a video projector. A spot tracker continuously tracks the spot as the trainee aims the weapon toward selected targets within the scene, and provides coordinate location data representative of spot locations on the screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Ronald S. Wolff, Edward J. Purvis, Robert T. McCormack, Paul G. Barber
  • Patent number: 6579097
    Abstract: A stationary area weapon effects simulator is mounted to the ceiling of a room in a building being assaulted by soldiers equipped with optical detectors and small arms weapons having small arms transmitters (SATs). Area effects weapon codes simulating the detonation of a grenade, bomb, artillery shell or chemical/biological weapon are encoded onto infrared signals emitted by a plurality of LEDs in the weapon effects simulator and these codes are logged in player units (DPCUs) carried by the soldiers. The simulated area weapon effects may be confined to particular angular zones and this zone information may also be encoded onto the infrared emissions. An alternate embodiment utilizes a stationary locator in a room which only emits infrared signals with location information encoded in the same which are logged by the player unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Cubic Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen R. Sampson, Allen E. Ripingill, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6579098
    Abstract: A laser transmitter assembly of the present invention is configured for placement within a firing chamber of a user firearm and to have minimal interference with a firearm extractor during charging of the firearm. The laser assembly emits a beam of laser light toward a firearm laser training system target in response to actuation of the firearm trigger to simulate firearm operation. Further, the laser assembly is manufactured to project a concentric laser beam relative to the firearm barrel, thereby enabling use without having to align the assembly with the firearm bore sight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Beamhit, LLC
    Inventor: Motti Shechter
  • Publication number: 20030091960
    Abstract: A firearm laser training system of the present invention includes a laser transmitter assembly, one or more actuable target assemblies each having a target, an interface unit and a computer system. The target assemblies raise and lower targets in accordance with control signals from the computer system. The interface unit is connected to the target assemblies and the computer system and transfers signals therebetween. In an alternative embodiment, the computer system is connected to a control unit that transmits control signals received from the computer system to the target assemblies via a distribution unit. The targets are raised by corresponding target assemblies at prescribed times for a specific time interval to indicate intended targets for the user, and are lowered in response to the beam impacting the raised targets within that interval (e.g., indicating a hit) or upon expiration of the interval without a beam impact (e.g., indicating a miss).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: Stephen P. Rosa, Motti Shechter, John Clark, Tansel Kendir
  • Patent number: 6549872
    Abstract: A first laser beam is transmitted through the actuation of the gun trigger, the trajectory of the virtual projectile is calculated, and the deviations of the trajectory from the target direction at the firing time are determined. The first laser beam is pivoted corresponding to the trajectory deviations, and the transit time of the laser pulses of the first laser beam reflected by the target is measured, and used to determine the target range. For this target range, the trajectory of the fired virtual projectile is calculated, and compared to the time that has passed between the firing time and the reception of the reflected laser pulses. If the two match within a tolerance range, a second laser beam comprising encoded laser pulses is transmitted in the transmission direction of the first laser beam, which is received at the target, where the impact damage is calculated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: STN Atlas Electronik GmbH
    Inventors: Karsten Bollweg, Anton Galhuber
  • Publication number: 20030003424
    Abstract: A firearm training system includes a training firearm (40) which includes a laser transmitter module (22) that emits a laser signal along a longitudinal centerline of the barrel (10) of the firearm in response to a mechanical wave generated from pulling the trigger of the firearm. A laser-detecting target (42) includes a planar array of laser light detectors capable of detecting the exact location that the laser signal hits the target. The laser signal transmitted by the training firearm (40) is preferably a modulated laser pulse that the target (42) can easily discriminate from noise and interference. The target is connected to a computer (44) which reports laser hit information and keeps track of a sequence of laser hits fired by a competitor or trainee. Computer (44) can be linked via a communications network to similar firearm training systems to enable competition between shooters at different geographic locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2001
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventors: Motti Shechter, Stephen P. Rosa
  • Publication number: 20020197584
    Abstract: A firearm laser training system of the present invention includes a target assembly, a laser transmitter assembly that attaches to a firearm, a detection device and a processor in communication with the detection device. The system simulates targets at extended ranges and accounts for various environmental and other conditions. The target may be in the form of a target image or a display screen. The detection device captures images of the target for processing by the processor to determine beam impact locations. The processor applies various offsets to the beam impact locations to account for the various conditions and determine the impact locations relative to the target. The processor displays an image of the target including the determined impact locations and scoring and/or other information that is based on those impact locations. An electronic laser filter may be employed by the system to minimize false impact detections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventors: Tansel Kendir, Motti Shechter, John Clark
  • Patent number: 6450816
    Abstract: A soldier (A) carries a weapon, on which a laser device (1) is mounted, which is used for illuminating a harness device (6) on the body of another soldier (B). The laser device and the target device each include a microprocessor as well as an ultrasound unit and/or a radio unit (72, 71) such that, if the laser device does not receive a response from the target device within a period of time Ta following the transmission of a bundled, coded laser beam, it transmits another laser beam with different coding, which causes the ultrasound unit and/or the radio unit of the target device to transmit an acknowledgement which can be received by the ultrasound unit and/or the radio unit of the laser device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Oerlikon Contraves AG
    Inventor: Peter Gerber
  • Patent number: 6439892
    Abstract: A soldier carries a weapon on which a laser device (1) is mounted, which is used for illuminating a harness device (6) on the body of another soldier. This harness device is provided with sensors (61, 62, 63, . . . ), which perform detection tasks for several applications in connection with arbitrary simulation scenarios in the course of exercises and battles. The laser device (1) has a laser target illumination element which is designed for transmitting tightly bundled laser beams (11), as well as chopper means for transmitting laser beams which are not only coded, but also chopped at a predeterminable frequency. The sensors contain tuning means for obtaining an alternating electrical signal from the received chopped laser beams, which is supplied to a pre-amplifier connected upstream of a discriminator. A very sensitive laser identification system results due to the fact that the electrical signal obtained in this manner can be very strongly amplified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Oerlikon Contraves AG
    Inventor: Peter Gerber
  • Patent number: 6406298
    Abstract: A laser small arms transmitter (SAT) includes a housing having a hollow interior and a clamp structure connected to the housing for rigidly securing the housing to a barrel of a weapon such as an M16A1 rifle. A spyglass shaped metal laser tube is rigidly mounted inside the housing. A lens is mounted in a forward segment of the laser tube and positioned in alignment with a bore in a forward side of the housing. A cylindrical laser diode can is mounted in a rearward segment of the laser tube. A circuit including a photo-optic sensor is mounted inside the housing and selectively energizes the laser diode to cause the same to emit a laser beam through the lens when a blank cartridge is fired. The rear segment of the laser tube is dimensioned and configured so that it can permanently bent to align the laser beam emitted by the laser diode with the barrel of the weapon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: Cubic Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Deepak Varshneya, John B. Roes
  • Publication number: 20020051953
    Abstract: A firearm laser training system of the present invention includes a target having a plurality of zones, a laser transmitter assembly for projecting a laser beam, a sensing device and a processor. The sensing device scans the target to produce target images to detect laser beam or simulated projectile impact locations. The processor receives impact location information from the sensing device and processes the received information to evaluate user performance and to display evaluation information and an image of the target including indicia corresponding to the detected impact locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Publication date: May 2, 2002
    Inventors: John Clark, Tansel Kendir, Motti Shechter
  • Publication number: 20020012898
    Abstract: A firearm simulation system according to the present invention includes a laser transmitter assembly and a computer system coupled to a display for providing a virtual target. The laser assembly emits a beam of laser light from a firearm in the form of a cross-hair toward the virtual target. The display is surrounded by detector arrays each disposed along a corresponding display edge to sense the emitted cross-hair beam. The computer system receives signals from the detector arrays and indicates the location of a simulated projectile impact location on the display. Alternatively, reflective strips may be employed to reflect portions of the cross-hair beam, while a sensing device detects the beam reflections and transmits detection information to the computer system. The computer system may further include various gaming software and enable the simulated firearm to be operatively interconnected with the game to provide enhanced interaction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Publication date: January 31, 2002
    Inventors: Motti Shechter, Stephen P. Rosa, Tansel Kendir
  • Patent number: 6322365
    Abstract: A firearm training system includes a training firearm, which includes a laser transmitter module that emits a laser signal along a longitudinal centerline of the barrel of the firearm in response to a mechanical wave generated from pulling the trigger of the firearm. A laser-detecting target includes a planar array of laser light detectors capable of detecting the exact location that the laser signal hits the target. The laser signal transmitted by the training firearm is preferably a modulated laser pulse that the target can easily discriminate from noise and interference. The target is connected to a computer, which reports laser hit information and keeps track of a sequence of laser hits fired by a competitor or trainee. Computer can be linked via a communications network to similar firearm training systems to enable competition between shooters at different geographic locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Beamhit, LLC
    Inventors: Motti Shechter, Stephen P. Rosa
  • Patent number: 6315568
    Abstract: A system for simulating shooting sports includes a non-projectile ammunition transmitter system that is retrofittable to any standard firearm having an ammunition chamber, a barrel, and a firing pin and a self-contained receiver system. The transmitter system includes an actuating beam cartridge and an adjustable beam choke. The beam cartridge includes a first actuating beam emitter responsive to the firing pin. The beam choke includes a second emission beam emitter responsive to the first actuating beam. The receiver system is a self-contained reusable target having beam sensors and hit indicators. The beam sensors are “triggered” when the emission beam “hits” or is “sensed by” the beam sensors. When the beam sensors sense the emission beam, they cause the hit indicators to indicate that the target has been “hit” by the emission beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: LightShot Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: George R. Hull, Robert M. O'Loughlin, Terry P. O'Loughlin, Michael D. Miles
  • Patent number: 6251011
    Abstract: A shooting video game machine comprising a mock gun having a trigger, a monitor which presents flying characters and characters other than flying characters to form a game playing display while causing a bullet to travel in a predetermined direction in synchronization of the pulling of the trigger, and a controller module comprising a game controller and a graphic controller. The graphic controller comprises a graphic processor, a character control block, a bullet control block, a hit determining block, and a proximity determining block. The hit determining block determines whether the bullet hits each of the characters, and the proximity determining block determines whether the bullet hits the proximity area of each flying character, when the hit determining block determines that the bullet hits none of the characters. When the hit determining block determines that the bullet hits a character, a strike display is presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Konami Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Atsushi Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 6196844
    Abstract: The present invention concerns the integration of laser engagement systems such as the MITS and MILES laser systems with standard two dimensional silhouettes, thereby creating a silhouette which can be defeated by laser fire. A laser enhanced silhouette allows live fire target systems (infantry systems and armor systems) to be engaged and defeated with the use of MILES laser Code. The laser enhanced silhouette replaces the plywood or plastic live fire silhouette which is normally utilized on live fire target systems. By connecting the laser enhanced silhouette electronics to the live fire target system's hit sensor electrical connection, the live fire target system can be engaged by laser equipped weapons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Inventors: Michael S. Bradshaw, Allen D. Beets, Albert G. Corkery, III, Christopher B. Hickman
  • Patent number: 6174169
    Abstract: A soldier carries a weapon on which a laser device (1) is mounted, which is used for illuminating a harness device (6) on the body of another soldier. This harness device is provided with sensors (61, 62, 63, . . . ), which perform detection tasks for several applications in connection with arbitrary simulation scenarios in the course of exercises and battles. The laser device (1) has a laser target illumination element which is designed for transmitting tightly bundled laser beams (11), as well as chopper means for transmitting laser beams which are not only coded, but also chopped at a predeterminable frequency. The sensors contain tuning means for obtaining an alternating electrical signal from the received chopped laser beams, which is supplied to a pre-amplifier connected upstream of a discriminator. A very sensitive laser identification system results due to the fact that the electrical signal obtained in this manner can be very strongly amplified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Oerlikon Contraves AG
    Inventor: Peter Gerber
  • Patent number: 6146141
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a laser pistol characterized in that the laser (1) is inserted into the barrel and electronically triggered (13). In order to have a true shooting sensation, a compressed air cylinder (28) causes the pistol carriage to recoil. The cylinder (28) is controlled by a changeover valve (24') which is actuated by a control element coupled with the trigger (9). When working, the changeover valve (24') causes a compressed air loader (17') to connect with the cylinder (28).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Inventor: Edgar Schumann
  • Patent number: 6123288
    Abstract: A non-volatile electron beam-addressed light-valve produces a flickerless, all-at-once visible light output which is then converted into a flickerless projected infrared scene suitable for testing an infrared imaging seeker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1985
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Inventor: Bruce Allen Kenyon
  • Patent number: 6099316
    Abstract: A simulated weapon creates a muzzle flash and smoke effect. The simulated weapon has an elongated tube portion having a closed end and an open end. A high-intensity light source enters the elongated tube near the closed end. A communication passageway in the elongated tube conducts a pulse of theatrical haze through the weapon. A target illuminator is mounted on the elongated tube. A pressurized pulse of theatrical haze is delivered through a barrel of the weapon. The high-intensity light source is flashed as the pressurized pulse of theatrical haze exits the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Universal Studios, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan M. Levy, James R. Schmidt, Michael R. Hinchliffe, Garland L. Markley, Philip K. Richardson, Paul B. Davis, George Konovalov
  • Patent number: 6068484
    Abstract: A system for simulating shooting sports includes a non-projectile ammunition transmitter system that is retrofittable to any standard firearm having an ammunition chamber, a barrel, and a firing pin and a self-contained receiver system. The transmitter system includes an actuating beam cartridge and an adjustable beam choke. The beam cartridge includes a first actuating beam emitter responsive to the firing pin. The beam choke includes a second emission beam emitter responsive to the first actuating beam. The receiver system is a self-contained reusable target having beam sensors and hit indicators. The beam sensors are "triggered" when the emission beam "hits" or is "sensed by" the beam sensors. When the beam sensors sense the emission beam, they cause the hit indicators to indicate that the target has been "hit" by the emission beam. The target may also include at least one triggering motion detector that detects a triggering motion that is associated with the target being launched into the air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Lightshot Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert M. O'Loughlin, Terry P. O'Loughlin, George R. Hull, Michael D. Miles
  • Patent number: 6053736
    Abstract: A training system for training AWACS weapons directors. The training system is programmed so that the student can select between a number of different training modes. These include interactive courseware, simulation, and live exercise modes. The system includes a voice recognition unit that is trained to recognize AWACS terminology and to interactively teach them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventors: Stephen D. Huffman, Bruce C. Montag, Sharon D. Long
  • Patent number: 6019375
    Abstract: A layered target assembly is disclosed for improved shooting practice which provides for a first planar layer, a second planar layer, and a third planar layer. The first planar layer preferably consists of a paper material to provide a relatively rigid support for the second planar layer and the third planar layer. The second planar layer preferably consists of a reflective sheet of metallic foil. The third planar layer covers the second planar layer and is translucent such that light easily passes therethrough for reflection from the second planar layer. The third planar layer is highlighted by the reflected light so that a laser dot is visible on the layered target assembly of the present invention even during bright ambient light conditions. The first planar layer, second planar layer, and third planar layer each have respective planar surfaces that are approximately equal in size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Inventor: Joseph Arnold West, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5993215
    Abstract: A training weapon for use in firearm training simulations involving multiple participants each of whom is armed with a training weapon. The training weapon includes a trigger which is coupled with a switch that is part of an electrical circuit including a power supply and an indicator light. The trigger and switch being arranged such that when the trigger is depressed the switch closes the circuit thereby turning on the indicator light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventors: Thomas G. Kotsiopoulos, Jim Jansen
  • Patent number: 5980254
    Abstract: A weapons training range provides a simulated weapons use scenario including return fire. A microprocessor selects branches from a multi-branch program and causes an image projector to project subscenarios on a display screen visible to a participant. In response to the subscenarios, the participant fires at projected threats. Return fire simulators positioned behind the display screen return fire toward the participant. Obstructions are placed in the weapons range to provide cover for the participant. A video camera and X-Y position sensor identify the X-Y location of the participant and try to detect exposed portions of the participant. Based upon the identified X-Y location and any detected exposed portions, the microprocessor aims the return fire simulators to provide simulated return fire. To simulate real world aiming, the microprocessor induces time-based and response-based aiming errors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Advanced Interactive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric G. Muehle, Erwin C. Treat, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5816817
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for simultaneously training multiple trainees in the use of simulated weapons, which method defines a set of image shapes and assigns each image shape to a different simulated weapon capable of generating a light beam, at a selected wavelength, having the assigned image shape. By collecting data under control conditions and evaluating a set of parameters that uniquely identifies each image shape and by comparing the resulting "control parameters" to the same set of parameters evaluated under training conditions (thereby, producing "on-line parameters") each image shape produced during a training session is identified and associated with a simulated weapon. The method enables an expanded number of trainees to be simultaneously trained, by employing the same set of image shapes produced and detected at different wavelengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: FATS, Inc.
    Inventors: Wenlong Tsang, Bobby Hsiang-Hua Chung, Christopher Alan Bailey
  • Patent number: 5788500
    Abstract: An improved battlefield simulation system based upon continuous wave lasers. The system uses continuous wave lasers and high-power light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to simulate weapons. A continuous wave laser energy beam is coded using pulse-code modulation (PCM) and pulse-pause modulation (PPM) so that the agent is uniquely identified, as well as the type of weapon responsible for the light beam. The present system provides improved eye safety, improved sensitivity, improved realism, and improved data transfer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: Oerlikon-Contraves AG
    Inventor: Peter Gerber
  • Patent number: 5716216
    Abstract: A system for simulating shooting sports includes a non-projectile ammunition transmitter system that is retrofittable to any standard firearm having an ammunition chamber, a barrel, and a firing pin and a self-contained receiver system. The transmitter system includes an actuating beam cartridge and an adjustable beam choke. The beam cartridge includes a first actuating beam emitter responsive to the firing pin. The beam choke includes a second emission beam emitter responsive to the first actuating beam. The receiver system is a self-contained reusable target having beam sensors and hit indicators. The beam sensors are "triggered" when the emission beam "hits" or is "sensed by" the beam sensors. When the beam sensors sense the emission beam, they cause the hit indicators to indicate that the target has been "hit" by the emission beam. The target may also include at least one triggering motion detector that detects a triggering motion that is associated with the target being launched into the air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: LightShot Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert M. O'Loughlin, Terry P. O'Loughlin, George R. Hull, Michael D. Miles
  • Patent number: 5660549
    Abstract: Firefighter training device for limiting a trainee's vision and simulating firefighting conditions across a trainee's field of view. The device includes a view-limiting simulation mask which is worn by a trainee (e.g., respirator mask, glasses, or goggles). The mask houses a voltage controlled liquid crystal (LC) lens system, either single or multi-layered, which is divided into various individually and electronically controllable segments. Host dyes might be injected into LC materials to produce colors in the lens segments. Pre-programmed and random pattern control of lens segments occludes the trainee's vision and simulates smoke and/or fires. Sound and strobes might be added to simulate explosions and other firefighting conditions. A transmitter, which includes switchable controls, can be used to send control signals to the mask. The training device can effectively be used indoors or outdoors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: Flameco, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank A. Witt, III
  • Patent number: 5641288
    Abstract: A user friendly shooting simulating process and training system are provided to more accurately and reliably detect the impact time and location in which a projectile shot from a shotgun, rifle, pistol or other weapon, hits a moving target. Desirably, the shooting simulating process and training system can also readily display the amount by which the projectile misses the target. The target impact time is based upon the speed and directions of the target and weapon, as well as the internal and external delay time of the projectile. In the preferred form, the training system includes a microprocessor and special projectile sensing equipment, and the targets and projectiles are simulated and viewed on a virtual reality head mounted display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Inventor: William G. Zaenglein, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5636992
    Abstract: The seeker of a guided missile may be tested by a simulator. The simulator mimics the reflection of a pulsed laser beam from a target. The simulator has a low power IR emitting LED 18. This IR emitting LED 18 is pulsed by an energy storing capacitor 22. The pulse is controlled by an SCR 16 driven by a pulse repetition oscillator 12. A collimating lens 26 collects light from the IR emitting LED 18 and directs it to the seeker. When being self tested, IR from the IR emitting LED 18 is reflected by a mirror 40 onto a detector 24. The output of the detector 24 is passed through a high pass filter 30. This removes signals from IR noise sources (fluorescent bulbs, the sun, incandescent bulbs), and passes only signals from the IR emitting LED 18. A first buffer 32, preferably an amplifier, provides power between the high pass filter 30 and the gate of a second SCR 34. This second SCR 34 drives a visible light LED 36 through a second buffer 38. The visible light LED 36 acts as a positive self test indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: Rockwell International Corporation
    Inventor: David Mastrangelo
  • Patent number: 5614942
    Abstract: In the case of a device for the control of the shutter of a CCD camera supplied with preferably monochromatic light such as laser light from a light source, and more particularly for the control of the shutter of a CCD camera of a light ray marksmanship system, the CCD camera photographs dots of light produced by a firearm emitting a light ray directed on a reflecting screen or a television screen so that such dots may be evaluated by a computer and displayed. In order ensure that the CCD camera is essentially unaffected by interfering light sources and light from the surroundings, which has the effect of so-called "noise", and is able to respond to the main light ray, on the basis of a start signal the light source produces one or more light pulses and then a main pulse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Assignee: NSM Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Ole Rom