By Television Monitoring Patents (Class 89/41.05)
  • Patent number: 11776369
    Abstract: Systems and methods of non-line-of-sight passive detection and integrated early warning of an unmanned aerial system by a plurality of acoustic sensors are described. In some embodiments, the plurality of acoustic sensors is positioned within an intra-netted array in depth according to at least one of a terrain, terrain features, or man-made objects or structures. The acoustic sensors are capable of detecting and tracking unmanned aerial systems in non-line-of-sight environments. In some embodiments, the acoustic sensors may be in communication with internal electro-optical components or other external sensors, with orthogonal signal data then transmitted to remote observation stations for correlation, threat determination and if required, mitigation. The unmanned aerial systems may be classified by type and a threat level associated with the unmanned aerial system may be determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignee: Applied Research Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert M. Serino, Mark J. McKenna, John Haas
  • Patent number: 11378358
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a target display device for assisting to aim at a target beyond a vision obstructing object, the device comprising: a forward-facing camera; a target marker projector; and an orientation marker projector, wherein: the forward-facing camera is adapted to capture an image beyond the vision obstructing object; the target marker projector is adapted to project a target marker; the orientation marker projector is adapted to project an orientation marker; and the forward-facing camera is adapted to capture an image in alignment with the target marker and the orientation marker along a longitudinal axial plane through the target display device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: Towarra Holdings Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Samuel Whitfeld
  • Patent number: 11369820
    Abstract: A system for detecting and extinguishing fires occurring within a predetermined observation area in response to commands received from a monitoring center. The system includes a source of fire retardant liquid and a monitor for selectively directing liquid to the observation area. A valve is disposed in fluid communication between the source and the monitor and is selectively movable between a closed position wherein liquid is prevented from flowing through the valve, and an open position wherein liquid can flow through the valve. An infrared camera generates a signal in response to temperature changes occurring in the observation area. A network switch is provided for communicating with the monitoring center. A control unit in communication with the valve, the camera, and the network switch relays the signal to the monitoring center and moves the valve between the positions in response to commands received from the monitoring center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Assignee: Fire Rover LLC
    Inventors: Bradley Steven Gladstone, Jeremy Douglas Dusing, Peter John Marry
  • Patent number: 11262151
    Abstract: A shooting system includes a platform, a gun installed on the platform, a manipulator connected to the platform and the gun and configured to move the platform, a platform driver configured to drive the manipulator, and a controller configured to control the platform driver to drive the manipulator to move the platform based on transmitting a movement control signal to the platform driver, and determine whether the gun is unable to aim at a target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: HANWHA DEFENSE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Soo Young Kim
  • Patent number: 11054209
    Abstract: A two-wheel balancing vehicle includes a chassis including one or more mounting interfaces configured to detachably mount one or more fighting modules for robotic competition. The two-wheel balancing vehicle also includes two wheel assemblies respectively mounted at a left side and a right side of the chassis. Each of the two wheel assemblies includes a wheel and a driving motor drivingly connected with the wheel and mounted to the chassis. The two-wheel balancing vehicle also includes an inertial measurement unit. The two-wheel balancing vehicle further includes a control system communicatively connected with the inertial measurement unit and the driving motor, the control system configured to receive sensing signals provided by the inertial measurement unit and to control a balancing state of the two-wheel balancing vehicle. The inertial measurement unit and the control system are mounted to the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: SZ DJI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yiqi Chen, Fang Liu, Zihan Wei
  • Patent number: 10997721
    Abstract: A microbe scanning device and methods are disclosed. The device includes a housing that includes a sensor(s), output device(s) that conveys text/audio/images, and control circuit(s) coupled to the sensor(s) and output device(s). the sensor captures first ASD and second ASD. The first and second ASD each includes an image of an appendage captured using one or more of radio waves, visible light (“VL”), and infrared light (“IR”). The control circuit is configured to determine, using ASD, whether a user is present; determine, using ASD, whether hands are present when the user is present; determine, using ASD, whether microbiol material is present on the hands; generate a notification when the microbial material is present on the hands; transmit, via the output device, the notification; generate a notification when the microbial material is not present on the hands; and transmit the second notification when generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Inventor: Beth Allison Lopez
  • Patent number: 10890407
    Abstract: Several examples of a dual remote control and crew-served weapon station are described herein that uniquely provide at least three operating modes, any one of which can be quickly and efficiently selected based on outputs from various system sensors (e.g., switches and buttons). For example, the first operating mode is a mode in which the weapon is remotely steered and fired (e.g., remote controlled). The second operating mode is a mode in which a weapon cradle is stabilized by a gimbal and the weapon is aimed and fired by a local operator (e.g., crew-served stabilized). The third operating mode is a mode in which the cradle is manually steered and the weapon is fired by the local operator (e.g., full manual).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: Flex Force Enterprises Inc.
    Inventors: Cynthia Louise Archer, Jacob Ryan Sullivan, John Holbrook Vance, II
  • Patent number: 10569165
    Abstract: A tactile feedback system for use with a virtual reality system comprises a support structure and tactile feedback units coupled to and spaced apart around the support structure. A microcontroller is coupled to the tactile feedback units to independently control their activation. The microcontroller has a communication interface configured to communicate with the virtual reality system to receive control signals for controlling operation of the tactile feedback units. The microcontroller activates the tactile feedback units in response to control signals received from the virtual reality system to indicate aspects of the virtual reality experience. In another aspect, a haptic gun for use with a virtual reality system has tactile feedback units and a linear actuator for simulating a recoil of firing the gun. In another aspect a video game system provides a single game play instance for multiple clients utilizing different game platforms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignee: ACTIVISION PUBLISHING, INC.
    Inventor: Allan Jones
  • Patent number: 10512809
    Abstract: A system for detecting and extinguishing fires occurring within a predetermined observation area in response to commands received from a monitoring center. The system includes a source of fire retardant liquid and a monitor for selectively directing liquid to the observation area. A valve is disposed in fluid communication between the source and the monitor and is selectively movable between a closed position wherein liquid is prevented from flowing through the valve, and an open position wherein liquid can flow through the valve. An infrared camera generates a signal in response to temperature changes occurring in the observation area. A network switch is provided for communicating with the monitoring center. A control unit in communication with the valve, the camera, and the network switch relays the signal to the monitoring center and moves the valve between the positions in response to commands received from the monitoring center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2019
    Assignee: Fire Rover LLC
    Inventors: Bradley Steven Gladstone, Jeremy Douglas Dusing, Peter John Marry
  • Patent number: 10436582
    Abstract: An orientation or position of a device may be determined through a determination of a slope of a path currently being traveled by a vehicle. The slope of the path may be determined from data indicating a movement of the vehicle provided by sensors of a data acquisition device coupled with the vehicle. A tilt value of the data acquisition device using the sensors of the data acquisition device may also be determined. A position of the data acquisition device may be established based on the slope of the path and the tilt value of the data acquisition device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: HERE Global B.V.
    Inventor: Vishisht Vijay Gupta
  • Patent number: 10268533
    Abstract: An apparatus, method, and computer program product are provided to detect error conditions and otherwise monitor the status of request data object and network response assets and related systems to allow for the efficient movement of network resources and other resources in high-volume network environments. In some example implementations, otherwise unrelated request data objects and their related parameters, along with otherwise unrelated network response asset systems are depicted on a single interface such that pairings between request data objects and network response assets, and other status information can be readily viewed. Some example implementations contemplate the use of location data in connection with error detection and remediation. Some example implementations also contemplate the establishment and use of a communication channel between an interface system and a system associated with a request data object and/or a network response asset upon the detection of an error condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2019
    Assignee: Groupon, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyle Fritz, Paul Barry, Jamie Gaskins
  • Patent number: 10054397
    Abstract: A self-correcting scope compares the original aim point of a projectile discharge device with the actual impact point and self-corrects the scope to account for the offset between these two points. The scope uses a typical optical lens which converts the incoming image to a digital image which is displayed by the invention on a digital display device which functions as the “eyepiece” of the scope. The invention also compresses the image either to the left or to the right or both of the field of interest in order to allow a shooter to be able to detect an intrusion into the field on interest from a point farther than can be achieved in a non-compressed image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Inventor: Paul Reimer
  • Patent number: 10031229
    Abstract: An object designator system has a laser light source, and image sensor, a display, and a processor coupled with a non-transitory processor-readable medium storing processor-executable code. The image sensor captures an external scene image. The processor determines a range to an object of interest in the external scene and an exposure delay based on the range. The laser light source emits a laser light pulse into the external scene. The image sensor, based on the exposure delay, captures a laser spot image including laser light pulse reflections, and a spot baseline image of the external scene. The processor determines, based on the laser spot image and the spot baseline image, a location of the laser spot in the external scene and generates a symbol indicative of the location of the laser spot. The processor renders the symbol onto the external scene image to display an integrated image to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven E. Koenck, Mark A. Bortz, T. Douglas Hiratzka, Michael C. Gokay
  • Patent number: 9404713
    Abstract: A gun sight for use with a weapon configured for super elevation is disclosed herein. The gun sight includes, but is not limited to, an imaging system that is configured for rotation. The gun sight further includes a drive mechanism that associated with the imaging system and that is configured to rotate the imaging system. The gun sight further includes a gyroscope associated with one of the weapon and the imaging system. The gun sight still further includes a processor that is communicatively coupled with the drive mechanism and the gyroscope. The processor is configured to control the drive mechanism to rotate the imaging system in a manner that causes the imaging system to maintain an initial angular orientation based on information provided by the gyroscope when the weapon is superelevated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Piazza, Theodore Bloomhardt, John Fletcher, III, Vladimir G. Krylov, Craig Pepper
  • Patent number: 9310165
    Abstract: A remote controlled projectile sighting and launching system (RCPSLS) is disclosed. In some embodiments, such a system can be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and can automatically facilitate moving targets, unmanned operation of a projectile launching device and automatic friendly-fire over-ride. In some embodiments, such a system can include network-linked components such as a plurality of auto-adjusting aiming units (AAAU), gimbaled robotic apparatuses (GRA), trigger activation devices (TAD), and transport vehicles (TRV). In some implementations, a plurality of shooters and/or command centers that are able to view and operate a plurality of AAAUs, TADs, GRAs, and TRVs from a remote location(s). The system can be configured to be capable of discerning friendly confirmed target coordinates (CTC) from enemy CTC and is able to launch a plurality of preselected projectiles (PP) from a plurality of preselected projectile launching devices (PPLD).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Inventors: John Curtis Bell, Curtis King Bell
  • Patent number: 9213321
    Abstract: A rotating element control system includes a rotating element rotatably disposed on a main body, a first sensing unit which senses a rotational speed of the main body, a driving unit which drives the rotating element, a second sensing unit which senses a rotational speed of the rotating element, a torque compensation unit which generates a first compensation signal within a first range and a second compensation signal within a second range, and a stabilization control unit which controls the driving unit based on the first and second compensation signals and a difference between a speed of a command to drive the rotating element and the rotational speed of the rotating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Assignee: Hanwha Techwin Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yong-Seob Lim, Seung-Jin Choi
  • Patent number: 9092021
    Abstract: A robotic apparatus that interacts with a user and a personal computer (PC) receives inputs from a user and from the PC and reacts and interacts. The interactive apparatus includes a USB interface with the PC to receive power and data such as key strokes, key combinations, email notifications, and web cam events, for example. The interactive apparatus also includes microphones and a phototransistor to detect sounds and movement. The interactive apparatus includes an eye assembly attached to a body and leg, which is responsive to inputs and interactions with the user and PC.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: J. T. Labs Limited
    Inventors: Tit Shing Wong, Wai Choi Lewie Leung, Kwok Yau Cheung
  • Patent number: 9057581
    Abstract: A gun sight for use with a weapon configured for super elevation is disclosed herein. The gun sight includes, but is not limited to, an imaging system that is configured for rotation. The gun sight further includes a drive mechanism that associated with the imaging system and that is configured to rotate the imaging system. The gun sight further includes an inclinometer associated with one of the weapon and the imaging system. The gun sight still further includes a processor that is communicatively coupled with the drive mechanism and the inclinometer. The processor is configured to control the drive mechanism to rotate the imaging system in a manner that causes the imaging system to maintain an initial angular orientation based on information provided by the inclinometer when the weapon is superelevated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2015
    Assignee: General Dynamics-OTS, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Piazza, Theodore E. Bloomhardt, John Grover Fletcher, III, Vladimir G. Krylov, Craig N. Pepper
  • Patent number: 9021934
    Abstract: A system is provided for deployment of sensors for surveillance and operational security which allows transmission of real time video (as well as high data rate sensor data) in a secure manner from remote locations. The system provides data linkage in a manner that resists interception and blockade without revealing either the origin or the destination of the data. Ultra wideband transmissions are used to transmit video data in a difficult to detect or intercept manner. A preferred use of the system is to wirelessly transmit images from a weapon site video camera to a wearable unit which displays the image directly to an operator. The system provides low latency video manipulation that enables a computer implemented sighting reticle that can be zeroed in a manner analogous to a traditional optical weapon sight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Matthew C. Hagerty
  • Patent number: 8978539
    Abstract: A video display system for a weapon includes a removably attachable optical range finder for calculating a distance to a selected target. The optical range finder includes an optical emitter for sending an optical signal to a target and an optical detector for detecting the signal reflected from the target. A fire control system is removably attachable to the weapon and associated with the optical range finder. The fire control system includes a ballistics computer for calculating a ballistics solution based on the distance to the target. A portable electronic device associated with the fire control system has a display screen and is removably attachable to the weapon. The portable electronic device includes a processor and a memory storing program instructions, the program instructions configured to display the ballistics solution in human viewable form on the display screen. In another aspect, a weapon video display housing configuration is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Wilcox Industries Corp.
    Inventors: James W. Teetzel, Dominic R. Goupil, Marc J. Celona, Justin D. Harris
  • Patent number: 8788220
    Abstract: An impact detection and remediation system includes a sensing device for detecting damage events related to a structure of interest. Such damage events may include impact from a ballistic object, a tamper event, a physical impact, or other events that may affect structural integrity or cause failure. Illustratively, the sensing device is in communication with a measurement system to determine impact criteria, and a processing system which is configured to use the impact criteria to determine a direction of the initiation point of a ballistic causing the damage event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Alexander M. Soles, Matthew R. Walsh, Eric B. Scott
  • Patent number: 8714072
    Abstract: An adjustable guiding device (the device) is used for a weapon for guiding a target. The device uses the slide-on rail of a gun for attachment purposes. A small digital camera is housed in an aiming module of the device to transmit a video of the target to a LCD screen sitting eye level. The LCD screen is attached to the module several support elements that envelope the barrel of the gun and slide. In addition to the digital camera, the module houses movable lenses for magnification/zoom function as well as a night vision capability to provide visibility of the target in dark environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventor: Gilberto Villarreal
  • Publication number: 20140103112
    Abstract: A gun sight is disclosed herein for use with a weapon configured for superelevation. The gun sight includes, but is not limited to, an imaging system configured to capture an image of an area down range of the imaging system, to display the image on a display unit having a display, and further configured to rotate in elevation. The gun sight further includes, but is not limited to, a drive mechanism configured to rotate the imaging system. The gun sight still further includes, but is not limited to, a processor communicatively coupled with the drive mechanism and with the imaging system, the processor configured to receive information from the imaging system relating to the image and to control the drive mechanism based on the information to rotate the imaging system in a manner that causes the image to remain on the display when the weapon is superelevated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products, Inc.
    Inventor: General Dynamics Armament and Technical Prod
  • Patent number: 8520895
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Kwong Wing Au, Saad J. Bedros
  • Publication number: 20130192451
    Abstract: An anti-sniper targeting system where a spherical omni-directional depth stereoscopic camera, a radar, and microphone identify, detect, and determine target positions and bearings, detect target weapon flash, detect glint, track bullet trajectory, coordinate, track, share, and assign targets. Target bearings and ranges are determined by sound and heat signature detection from an infrared camera, from glint, and radar to rapidly position a fire control arm with a camera onto assigned targets rapidly from calculations on target positions and optimal trajectory. It can account for firing corrections due to target range and wind effects using wind sensors, pressure, temperature, and earth curvature accommodating for bullet trajectory over large ranges. It can be an offensive sniper system whereby a target is locked in spite of movements, such as from a vehicle using stabilizing gyros and accelerometers, image processing, or sensor data to adjust for movements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: Steven Gregory Scott, Kenneth Varga, John Hiett
  • Publication number: 20130133510
    Abstract: A gun sight for use with a weapon configured for super elevation is disclosed herein. The gun sight includes, but is not limited to, an imaging system that is configured for rotation. The gun sight further includes a drive mechanism that associated with the imaging system and that is configured to rotate the imaging system. The gun sight further includes an inclinometer associated with one of the weapon and the imaging system. The gun sight still further includes a processor that is communicatively coupled with the drive mechanism and the inclinometer. The processor is configured to control the drive mechanism to rotate the imaging system in a manner that causes the imaging system to maintain an initial angular orientation based on information provided by the inclinometer when the weapon is superelevated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products, Inc.
    Inventor: General Dynamics Armament and Technical Prod
  • Patent number: 8397621
    Abstract: A firearm mount including a base that supports a movable cradle within which is positioned a firearm. Remotely controlled motors turn the cradle about horizontal and vertical axes. Remote operation of the motors is enhanced by a video camera secured to the firearm and connected to a transmitter that broadcasts an electronic video signal to the user stationed away from the mount. The trigger of the firearm in the cradle is moved to fire by a remotely controlled solenoid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Darron Hodge
  • Patent number: 8378279
    Abstract: A portable integrated laser optical target tracker and designator (PILOTT device) in a single housing is provided having a laser designator assembly to produce a focused laser beam that is projected from the housing. A laser energy detector is located in the housing that detects reflected laser energy from any designation source (ground or airborne based), provides steering information, decodes the laser's frequency, and is used as a range finding receiver. The location of the laser energy provides automatic field alignment of the laser designator. An optical magnification scope is mounted in the housing and has an optical field of view that is parallel to and aligned with a beam path defined by the laser beam focusing optics. Any night scope can be added to the system to provide night situational awareness by being shown in the display. A visual electronic display is overlaid with the optical field of view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Fraser-Volpe, LLC
    Inventors: Edward R. Mourar, Mario Carlo, Ilias Syrgabaev
  • Patent number: 8297173
    Abstract: An improved modular video display system for a weapon having a video display module that can accommodate multiple camera inputs. The video display module contains a video control panel and human-viewable display screen, which enables the operator to switch between viewing and controlling a thermal sight and a left and right rotating camera. The video display module and cameras are powered by a power supply, which is electrically coupled to the weapons accessory devices, once each device is mounted on the modular rails. The cameras are connected to the video display module and the weapons operator may select either a thermal display using the thermal sight or an image display of the left or right using the left and right rotating camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Wilcox Industries Corp.
    Inventors: James W. Teetzel, Justin D. Harris, Linwood B. Davis, Marvin S. Carter, Ferdinand N. Ahlberg, Dominic R. Goupil
  • Publication number: 20120266746
    Abstract: A firearm mount including a base that supports a movable cradle within which is positioned a firearm. Remotely controlled motors turn the cradle about horizontal and vertical axes. Remote operation of the motors is enhanced by a video camera secured to the firearm and connected to a transmitter that broadcasts an electronic video signal to the user stationed away from the mount. The trigger of the firearm in the cradle is moved to fire by a remotely controlled solenoid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Inventor: Darron HODGE
  • Patent number: 8245623
    Abstract: A weapon system comprises a first, second and third sensor and a range detecting means. The weapon system further comprises a weapons platform removably mounted to a moveable vehicle. The weapons platform includes a gun. The first sensor is mechanically attached to the gun for sensing an image. The second sensor senses a position of the gun, including at least an elevation and azimuth. The third sensor detects a rate and altitude of the moveable vehicle. The range detecting means detects a range of the gun to the target. The weapon system also comprises an image processor for processing the image from the first sensor, a display for displaying the processed image and a controller. The controller calculates an expected impact point for a round of fire based upon the sensed and detected data, and superimposes the expected impact point on the processed image on the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: BAE Systems Controls Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher S. Weaver
  • Patent number: 8234968
    Abstract: A firearm mount including a base that supports a movable cradle within which is positioned a firearm. Remotely controlled motors turn the cradle about horizontal and vertical axes. Remote operation of the motors is enhanced by a video camera secured to the firearm and connected to a transmitter that broadcasts an electronic video signal to the user stationed away from the mount. The trigger of the firearm in the cradle is moved to fire by a remotely controlled solenoid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: Darron D. Hodge
  • Publication number: 20120174741
    Abstract: This is directed to systems, processes, machines, and other means that allow a pan/tilt gun mount to be radio controlled by a plurality of frequencies. The invention can rapidly rotate and adjust elevation to aim a gun mount as directed by a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Inventor: CHRIS ROGERS
  • Patent number: 7946213
    Abstract: A gimbaled weapon system (GWS) is disclosed having a sighting system, a control unit, a weapon cradle for receiving a weapon, and an operator interface for the GWS located remotely from the weapon cradle and the sighting system. The weapon cradle is co-located with the sighting system as a unit in the GWS. The GWS also includes a first elevation drive for elevating the weapon cradle, a first azimuth drive for rotation the weapon cradle in azimuth, and a second elevation drive elevating the sighting system independently of the elevation of the weapon cradle by the first elevation drive. The sighting system includes a sighting device incorporating a laser range finder, a visible spectrum video camera and a thermal spectrum video camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: EOS Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James P. Quinn
  • Patent number: 7946212
    Abstract: A gimbaled weapon system (GWS) includes a sighting system, a control unit, a weapon cradle for receiving a weapon, and an operator interface for the GWS located remotely from the weapon cradle and the sighting system. The weapon cradle is co-located with the sighting system as a unit in the GWS. The GWS includes four independent axis drives: a first elevation drive for elevating the weapon cradle; a first azimuth drive for rotation the weapon cradle in azimuth; a second elevation drive elevating the sighting system independently of the elevation of the weapon cradle by the first elevation drive; and a second azimuth drive for rotating the sighting system independent of the weapon cradle in azimuth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: EOS Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James P. Quinn
  • Patent number: 7926219
    Abstract: An improved digital scope for locating and targeting objects. The scope includes an image detection device that is configured to collect image data of a sighted region. The scope further includes a display screen that is electronically connected to the image detection device and is configured to display image data of the sighted region as a continuous video feed. The left sidefield portion of the sighted region is displayed horizontally compressed in the left portion of the display screen, the right sidefield portion of the sighted region is displayed horizontally compressed in the right portion of the display screen, and the center portion of the sighted region is displayed in the center portion of the display screen without horizontal compression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventor: Paul Kevin Reimer
  • Patent number: 7921761
    Abstract: A gimbaled weapon system (GWS) is disclosed having a sighting system, a control unit, a weapon cradle and an operator interface for the GWS located remotely from the weapon cradle and the sighting system. The weapon cradle is elevated using a first elevation drive. The weapon cradle is co-located with the sighting system as a unit in the GWS. The GWS includes a second elevation drive elevating the sighting system independently of the elevation of the weapon cradle by the first elevation drive. A network of multiple, mobile target sensors located remotely from the GWS provide coordinates or location of a target to the control unit of the GWS.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: EOS Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James P. Quinn
  • Patent number: 7921762
    Abstract: A gimbaled weapon system (GWS) is disclosed having a sighting system, a control unit, a weapon cradle for receiving a weapon, and an operator interface for the GWS located remotely from the weapon cradle and the sighting system. The weapon cradle is elevated using a first elevation drive. The weapon cradle is co-located with the sighting system as a unit in the GWS. The sighting system includes a thermal video camera and a visible spectrum video camera, the thermal video camera and the visible spectrum video camera each producing a video output. The thermal and visible spectrum video outputs are provided to the operator interface for the GWS for display on a display included in the operator interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: EOS Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James P. Quinn
  • Patent number: 7921588
    Abstract: A safeguard system ensures device operation in conformance with governing laws for devices such as directed energy weapons or surveillance systems, whose misuse may discomfort, harm or otherwise violate the legal rights of a person. A legal protocol is defined by rules embodying the laws that govern the use of the device and requires as inputs an authorization to use the device and input condition(s) relating to at least one of a use of the device, an attribute of a human target of the device and an operational environment of the device and human target. The safeguard system applies the rules to the authorization and input condition(s) to generate a control signal that ensures the device is used in conformance with the legal protocol. A documentation system records the authorization, input condition(s) applied rules, and control signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Brown, James R. Gallivan
  • Publication number: 20110030544
    Abstract: A firearm mount including a base that supports a movable cradle within which is positioned a firearm. Remotely controlled motors turn the cradle about horizontal and vertical axes. Remote operation of the motors is enhanced by a video camera secured to the firearm and connected to a transmitter that broadcasts an electronic video signal to the user stationed away from the mount. The trigger of the firearm in the cradle is moved to fire by a remotely controlled solenoid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Darron D. Hodge
  • Publication number: 20110030545
    Abstract: Weapons control systems are disclosed including a handheld display and wiring loom configurations for weapons control systems. A control system for a weapon comprises a sight unit for mounting to the weapon for capturing image data for targeting the weapon. The control system also comprises a handheld display having a sight viewable by at least one eye of an operator of the weapon to view data associated with operation of the weapon including image data collected by the sight unit and a controller to control operation of the weapon. The control system also comprises a communication system coupled to be in communication with the handheld display and the sight unit to enable the operator to remotely view the data associated with operation of the weapon and simultaneously control operation of the weapon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Avner Klein
  • Patent number: 7866247
    Abstract: An automatic shooting mechanism capable of remote switching and unmanned switching between a safety mode and a shooting mode, and remote shooting and unmanned shooting. Also provided is a sentry robot employing the automatic shooting mechanism and capable of performing wide and narrow monitoring and sentry duties in short and long ranges, and automatically shooting at a target. The automatic shooting mechanism comprises a safety unit including a safety solenoid and an elastic member to move a safety pin of a gun between a safety mode position and a shooting mode position, a return unit for applying force to the safety pin of the gun to move the safety pin to the safety mode position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tae-jin Son, Jun-yeoul Ko
  • Patent number: 7863592
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a compact optical device, intended for use in a night vision telescope, that includes an objective, a standard light intensifier that rotates the image through 180° between its entry and its exit, an eyepiece, and four optical deflections, one in the objective and three in the eyepiece. The eyepiece, producing a single intermediate image between its entry and its exit, includes a combiner whose deflection angle ? depends on its optical index n and the half-field ? of the device. The field width of the device is at least 40°. The invention is applicable notably to night vision binoculars for aircraft or helicopter pilots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Thomson-CSF Sextant
    Inventor: Laurent Bignolles
  • Publication number: 20100275768
    Abstract: A gimbaled weapon system (GWS) is disclosed having a sighting system, a control unit, a weapon cradle for receiving a weapon, and an operator interface for the GWS located remotely from the weapon cradle and the sighting system. The weapon cradle is co-located with the sighting system as a unit in the GWS. The GWS also includes a first elevation drive for elevating the weapon cradle, a first azimuth drive for rotation the weapon cradle in azimuth, and a second elevation drive elevating the sighting system independently of the elevation of the weapon cradle by the first elevation drive. The sighting system includes a sighting device incorporating a laser range finder, a visible spectrum video camera and a thermal spectrum video camera.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: James P. Quinn
  • Publication number: 20100258000
    Abstract: A wireless waterproof remotely operated weapon mounted sighting system consisting of three components: a weapon-mounted camera with power supply and wireless connectivity, an operator borne CPU with wireless real time image receiving, and HMD, for operator viewing of the combat environment. The adjustable/zero-able sighting reticle, enables the operator precision surgical strike capability from cover or concealment. The system enables an operator to view surroundings plus aim and fire the weapon with minimal operator exposure to hostile fire, as is the case in conventional weapon sighting systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventor: Matthew Charles Hagerty
  • Patent number: 7810273
    Abstract: A sighting mechanism for a firearm, including two video cameras, a video screen, a digital sighting distance meter, a sensor for measuring environment, cartridge and/or weapon parameters, a biometric sensor, a memory module for biometric data and/or munitions data and a digital computer. The video cameras are arranged parallel to each other to capture the target sighting field. The computer has video inputs and an image processing unit enabling the video image data to be superimposed in real time in a pixel precise manner in relation to the target field on the screen. The computer includes a ballistic computer which enables the target image to reproduce on the screen. A graticule arranged on the screen can be positioned automatically and in real time according to the incoming data, such that the position of the graticule in the target field corresponds to a real projectile point of impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Inventors: Rudolf Koch, Peter Veerkamp, Franz-Josef Watermann
  • Patent number: 7690291
    Abstract: A method is described of preventing weapon fire during operation of a self-contained gimbaled weapon system (GWS). The GWS has a sighting system, a weapon and a weapon cradle. The weapon cradle is elevated by an operator using a first elevation drive and moved in azimuth using an azimuth drive. In the method, the sighting system is moved using a second elevation drive and the azimuth drive to acquire a target based on signals received from a first operator interface and display unit located remotely from the GWS. The method further involves observing target information received from the first operator interface and display unit using a second observation unit having a display unit, and overriding operator control of the weapon based on the observation of the second observation unit to prevent firing of the weapon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: EOS Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: James P. Quinn
  • Patent number: 7656579
    Abstract: An improved electronic aiming device for use with a weapon or other manually aimed device. Means are provided to vary the field of view, i.e., the magnification, of the aiming device in relation to the movement of the device upon which the aiming device is securely mounted and the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Bushnell Inc.
    Inventor: James Millett
  • Patent number: 7650826
    Abstract: An automatic shooting mechanism capable of remote switching and unmanned switching between a safety mode and a shooting mode, and remote shooting and unmanned shooting. Also provided is a sentry robot employing the automatic shooting mechanism and capable of performing wide and narrow monitoring and sentry duties in short and long ranges, and automatically shooting at a target. The automatic shooting mechanism comprises a safety unit including a safety solenoid and an elastic member to move a safety pin of a gun between a safety mode position and a shooting mode position, and a return unit for applying force to the safety pin of the gun to move the safety pin to the safety mode position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tae-jin Son, Jun-yeoul Ko
  • Patent number: 7636452
    Abstract: A system for automatically acquiring a target with a narrow field-of-view gimbaled imaging sensor. The system includes a target-detection subsystem including one or more target-detection imaging sensor with a first field-of-view, a target-tracking subsystem and a processing system in communication with the target-detection subsystem and the target-tracking imaging subsystem. The target-tracking subsystem includes a target-tracking imaging sensor with a second field-of-view smaller than the first field-of-view, and a gimbal mechanism for controlling a viewing direction of the target-tracking imaging sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Assignee: Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd.
    Inventor: Ishay Kamon