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EP1398595A1 - Système en réseau pour l'entraínement au tir d'arme à feu sur cible utilisant un laser - Google Patents

Système en réseau pour l'entraínement au tir d'arme à feu sur cible utilisant un laser Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1398595A1
EP1398595A1 EP20030026590 EP03026590A EP1398595A1 EP 1398595 A1 EP1398595 A1 EP 1398595A1 EP 20030026590 EP20030026590 EP 20030026590 EP 03026590 A EP03026590 A EP 03026590A EP 1398595 A1 EP1398595 A1 EP 1398595A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
laser
firearm
training
target
signal
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP20030026590
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German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Motti Shechter
Stephen P. Rosa
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Beamhit LLC
Original Assignee
Beamhit LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Beamhit LLC filed Critical Beamhit LLC
Priority claimed from EP98957307A external-priority patent/EP1007896B1/fr
Publication of EP1398595A1 publication Critical patent/EP1398595A1/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41—WEAPONS
    • F41G—WEAPON SIGHTS; AIMING
    • F41G3/00—Aiming or laying means
    • F41G3/26—Teaching or practice apparatus for gun-aiming or gun-laying
    • F41G3/2616—Teaching or practice apparatus for gun-aiming or gun-laying using a light emitting device
    • F41G3/2622—Teaching or practice apparatus for gun-aiming or gun-laying using a light emitting device for simulating the firing of a gun or the trajectory of a projectile
    • F41G3/2655—Teaching or practice apparatus for gun-aiming or gun-laying using a light emitting device for simulating the firing of a gun or the trajectory of a projectile in which the light beam is sent from the weapon to the target
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41—WEAPONS
    • F41A—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS COMMON TO BOTH SMALLARMS AND ORDNANCE, e.g. CANNONS; MOUNTINGS FOR SMALLARMS OR ORDNANCE
    • F41A33/00—Adaptations for training; Gun simulators
    • F41A33/02—Light- or radiation-emitting guns ; Light- or radiation-sensitive guns; Cartridges carrying light emitting sources, e.g. laser
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41—WEAPONS
    • F41J—TARGETS; TARGET RANGES; BULLET CATCHERS
    • F41J5/00—Target indicating systems; Target-hit or score detecting systems
    • F41J5/02—Photo-electric hit-detector systems

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a firearm training system employing laser-emitting firearms and laser-detecting targets, and, more particularly, to a training firearm having a laser module that emits laser pulses along a centerline of the barrel of the firearm toward a laser-detecting target which may be linked via a computer network to similar, remotely-located training systems.
  • Shooting sports today include a variety of competitions including firing handguns, rifles and other firearms at bull's eyes and other types of targets. Measures of performance used to determine relative and absolute success include accuracy, speed, shot grouping, range and a host of combinations of these and other criteria.
  • a combination of skills, competitive talents, and firearm performance is required to enable someone to compete successfully in the shooting sports.
  • the skills involved include the integrated act of combining marksmanship fundamentals, such as proper firing position, trigger management, secure grip and correct sight picture.
  • Competitive talents associated with the various shooting sports include being able to shoot accurately on the move, being able to draw a handgun from a holster, and being able to control breathing and movement so as to create a very stable platform for achieving pinpoint accuracy on a target.
  • Marksmanship training is intended to build and refine individual skills.
  • conducting live fire training is done collectively, in that all of the members of the unit go to the firing range together. Primarily, this is due to the fact that live ammunition is carefully controlled.
  • live fire ranges are scarce resources, their use must be scheduled. This entails significant advance coordination and planning, especially for reserve component units such as the Army and Marine Reserves of the Air and Army National Guard. These units meet monthly, on weekends typically, at centers of armories without suitable range facilities. Units must be transported to and from suitable training ranges, which often are a significant distance away, and supported with food and shelter while at the range. Those experienced in such matters will recognize that the ability to conduct suitable firearms training in the centers and armories ("at home station"), on an individual basis when needed, could provide significant savings and increase training value.
  • a formal COI is imposed, such as that noted for the M16A1 and M16A2 rifle in U.S. Army field manual FM 23-9, and a test is required.
  • This test assesses the trainee's ability to meet the standards set forth in the COI, and is typically referred to as "qualification”. Passing the test means the trainee meets the standards and is qualified to use the weapon.
  • the qualification test includes a requirement to engage and hit standard targets of different sizes and having different shapes disposed at various ranges from the trainee.
  • the actual distance to a target is called the range.
  • rifle marksmanship skills are tested out to ranges of 300 meters for modern military rifles, and 25 to 50 meters for handguns.
  • the longer ranges obviously impose significant acreage requirements for live fire range facilities. Consequently, the armed forces have formulated scaled target alternate courses which use silhouette targets sized to simulate different range-to-target distances based on fundamental mathematical formulas, thereby allowing the soldier to practice sight alignment skills on a sight picture of the appropriate size for a simulated target at a given range.
  • scaled target alternatives to actual distance ranges still require the use of live ammunition in a live fire range, with all the associated safety, pollution, and resource consumption implications noted above.
  • scaled targets reduces the "real estate" required at the live fire range, it does not eliminate the need for, and associated costs and penalties of using a live fire range.
  • the alternate course exercise is conducted with a weapon which looks, feels and operates in a manner as close as possible to an actual service rifle (or pistol).
  • the simulated audible report shooting experience includes an audible report and recoil.
  • the soldier is required to fire in two sessions to qualify.
  • the first session requires that the soldier fire 20 rounds, held in two 10 round magazines, from a prone position with the weapon supported on a sandbag.
  • the soldier has 120 seconds to hit each of the 10 scaled target silhouettes on the target (Fig. 1) two times. Having the weapon supported on the sandbag provides added stability to the weapon and enhances accuracy.
  • the second session requires that the soldier fire a second string of 20 rounds from a prone position with the weapon unsupported.
  • Unsupported means that the soldier can use only his arms, with elbows resting on the ground, to hold the weapon steady.
  • the relative stability and accuracy of the unsupported firing position is reduced relative to that of the supported firing position.
  • the two 25 meter targets required for the qualification test are mounted side-by-side on a suitable backing in full view of the trainee.
  • the soldier is instructed to fire on one of the targets first, and, after the 120 second period elapses and all 20 rounds are accounted for, then the second target.
  • soldiers frequently engage all the small silhouettes on both targets during the supported session.
  • the larger silhouettes (the 50 meter and 100 meter ranges) are left for the unsupported session.
  • the target it is preferable for the target to be able to distinguish the location of each hit and the time sequence of the hits, and to communicate that information to the scorer/instructor in real time.
  • the target would include a method for determining if the trainee is at the correct range so that training and testing could be accomplished autonomously.
  • a weapon simulator that looks, feels and operates as the actual weapon but does not fire a live round, and provides the full psycho-kinetic experience to the trainee, including felt recoil, sound, and smell that the soldier would realize on the live fire range.
  • the simulator would have an alternative and totally safe means for accurately hitting the target.
  • the simulator would be untethered so as not to restrict the trainee's movement, grip, or position while firing, and would also require the trainee to reload, charge and clear the simulator in the same manner as the actual weapon so that no part of the value of live fire training is lost. It is desirable that both the simulator and the target support qualification testing with the weapon's standard day sights as well as with the latest developments in night vision and thermal detection systems so that the unit is not required to use a live fire range at all.
  • Another drawback to live ammunition is its use in the process of "zeroing" a sighted firearm.
  • the process of correctly adjusting the sight mechanism of a firearm typically involves two steps. First, the sight mechanism of the firearm is aligned with the centerline of the bore in a process known as "boresighting." Boresighting achieves a coarse alignment which generally allows the shooter to hit the target when the sight is trained thereon, though the hit locations are typically clustered at a point off center. This is because boresighting does not take into account the fact that each shooter has a unique "sight picture", meaning that each shooter aligns his or her eye with the sight slightly differently, as a function of his or her proper firing position, thereby seeing the location of the center of the target somewhat differently.
  • a fine adjustment (i.e., zeroing) of the sight mechanism can be achieved by determining the offset between the center of mass of the hits in the shot group and the center of the target, and then adjusting the sight mechanism accordingly. By repeating this process a number of times, the offset between the center of the target and the center of mass of the shot group can be minimized, such that the firearm is "zeroed" for a particular shooter.
  • laser drivers have been used for transmitting a laser beam as a training aid in firearms, as disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,344,320, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
  • a laser transmitter is typically mounted to one side of the firearm's muzzle, and projects a laser signal onto a target to simulate firing of a projectile and a hit location.
  • the laser signal is not projected along the longitudinal centerline of the barrel (as a projectile would be); thus, the projection angle of the laser must be slightly angled relative to the longitudinal centerline axis of the barrel so that the laser signal hits the target in the same location that a projection fired from the barrel would hit the target.
  • This arrangement introduces a parallax problem, wherein the laser projection angle must be adjusted as a function of the target range in order for the location of the laser signal on the target to accurately reflect the location that a projectile would hit the target.
  • Bang Corporation has developed a cylindrically-shaped laser module which slides into the muzzle of a pistol and is held in place by frictional force.
  • the laser module detects resonance of the fall of the hammer and emits a visible laser signal which can be seen on a paper target or the like.
  • the firearm cannot fire live ammunition or even a blank while the laser is in use, and the trainee feels only a "click" of the hammer upon pulling the trigger.
  • the in-barrel laser does not allow the trainee to experience any recoil or firing effects whatsoever, and provides a poor simulation of the psycho-kinetic experience associated with operating the firearm with live ammunition, with no audible report or recoil. Further, live ammunition can accidentally be loaded and fired while the laser is within the barrel, presenting a potential safety hazard to the trainee and others in the vicinity.
  • Yet a further object of the present invention is to improve the process of zeroing the sight mechanism of a firearm by automatically determining a center of mass of shots groups, which may be of any size, without use of live ammunition.
  • a laser pulse is substituted for the projectile of conventional firearms.
  • this laser is eye safe, as defined by appropriate ANSI and U.S. Food and Drug Agency standards. This one change lifts immediately the major constraints facing the sport of shooting, in that both the safety and the pollution issues raised by the use of lead bullets are answered.
  • the laser transmitter fits directly into the barrel of the firearm and emits a laser pulse along the longitudinal centerline of the barrel to avoid any range-dependent parallax problems.
  • the training firearm is formed by replacing the conventional barrel of a firearm with a training barrel which preserves the look, feel and firing action of the conventional firearm.
  • the bore of the training barrel is completely blocked by a solid wall extending transversely through the barrel and separating the bore of the barrel into a proximal firing chamber sized to chamber only a blank cartridge adapted for use with the training barrel, and a distal cavity which houses a laser transmitter module.
  • the laser transmitter module can be permanently mounted with the cavity or can be a cylindrically-shaped removable module which is threadably or slidably insertable into the muzzle of the barrel.
  • the laser transmitter module includes a mechanical wave sensor which senses a mechanical wave from the discharge of the blank cartridge and triggers the laser transmitter to emit a laser signal.
  • the laser transmitter module does not protrude significantly from the muzzle and therefore does not affect the holstering of the firearm.
  • the training firearm used in conjunction with the firearm training system of the present invention can also take the form of a firearm specifically designed to fire only laser signals or a conventional firearm fitted with a removable laser transmitter module which is inserted into the muzzle of the barrel.
  • the firearm training system of the present invention 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.
  • the laser pulses are modulated with a particular modulation signal, and the laser light detectors are configured to detect the modulated laser pulses in order to mitigate the effects of interference.
  • the laser light detectors can be arranged in any manner to simulate any type of competitive or training target.
  • the laser light detectors can be arranged to simulate a military scaled target, such as the 25 Meter Alternate C Course Target.
  • the laser-detecting target is connected to a computer which analyzes target hit information, keeps track of hits information and statistics, and displays feedback or scoring information.
  • the target and computer provide real time feedback on the location of each laser shot thus allowing a referee, trainer, or spectators to see how the shooter is performing during the shooting exercise. Further, more accurate assessment of marksmanship skills is made possible, because the order and timing of shots is recorded, and credit is given only for hitting an intended or specified target on a particular shot.
  • the computer can be connected via a communications network, such as the Internet, to similar systems, so that competitions or training exercises can be conducted across multiple geographic locations.
  • a communications network such as the Internet
  • competitions or exercises can be controlled from a central system or unit which may be accessible to individual shooters via an Internet web site.
  • the present invention includes means for preventing cheating among competitors at different locations.
  • an ultrasonic transmitter is incorporated into the training firearm and emits an ultrasonic signal at the same instant as the laser pulse is transmitted by the laser transmitter.
  • An ultrasonic detector detects the arrival of the ultrasonic signal at the target, and the target determines a time delay between the laser pulse and the ultrasonic signal. This time delay is used to calculate the distance between the training firearm and the target, which distance is reported to a referee or to other competitors, and prevents a competitor from cheating by standing closer to the target than the specified range.
  • the firearm training system of the present invention also allows closed-loop zeroing of a sighted firearm. Specifically, the system automatically calculates the center of gravity (relative to a center of the target) of a group of three or more shots to enable accurate assessment of the required realignment of the sights. Because the system permits shot groups containing more than the conventional three shots, a more accurate offset can be determined with each iteration of the zeroing process, thereby reducing the number of required iterations.
  • the firearm training system of the present invention includes a training firearm which emits a laser pulse when fired under conditions closely simulating the firing of a projectile, a target adapted to detect laser pulses, and a computer system which determines and stores information relating to laser pulse detections, which system may be linked via a network to similar, remotely-located training systems.
  • Fig. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a training barrel 10 for a training firearm in accordance with one aspect of the firearm training system of the present invention.
  • Training barrel 10 can be a drop-in replacement barrel for a pistol having a removable barrel.
  • the training barrel of the present invention, together with an upper receiver, can serve as a drop-in replacement barrel and upper receiver for a rifle.
  • a drop-in replacement barrel 10 for a pistol includes a barrel-shaped (i.e., having the shape of a typical firearm barrel) main body 12 defining a substantially cylindrical bore along a longitudinal centerline of main body 12 with openings at the proximal and distal ends.
  • Body 12 is made from stainless steel or another conventional material.
  • the bore of barrel 10 is completely blocked by a solid steel section or wall 14 extending transversely through main body 12 and separating the bore of the barrel into a first substantially cylindrical cavity 16 extending from the proximal end to wall 14 and a second substantially cylindrical cavity 18 extending from the distal end to wall 14.
  • the first cavity 16 extending inward from the proximal end of the barrel 10 serves as a firing chamber and is sized to accommodate a specially adapted blank cartridge 20.
  • a specially adapted blank cartridge 20 By correctly sizing the powder charge in the blank cartridge 20 at approximately 1/4 the normal powder charge, there is no adverse affect upon the weapon's original live-fire performance and so basic weapon familiarization and training are readily accomplished. Since the bore of the training barrel is occluded, there is no forward discharge whatsoever from the muzzle (i.e., the distal end), and the firearm may be fired at point blank range without creating a hazardous condition.
  • the chamber formed by cavity 16 of barrel 10 is sufficiently short so as not to allow a live round to be chambered, and the head space of cavity 16 is sized so as not to allow a normal blank round to be chambered.
  • training barrel 10 has a residual discharge only from the ejection port of the weapon.
  • barrels are color coded at the ejection port and the muzzle for immediate identification as blank fire units and are marked with the appropriate model and caliber designation as well as with the proper training blank loading. That color coding is matched by color coding on the specially adapted blank ammunition in order to prevent a dangerous mismatch of ammunition to the training barrel.
  • blank cartridge 20 is all brass, includes no wad, and uses non-corrosive primer and powder materials.
  • Laser transmitter module 22 includes a power source comprising first and second button batteries 24 and 26, a mechanical wave sensor 28 and an optics package 30 for projecting a laser beam distally through lens 32 toward a target.
  • the laser beam is triggered in response to a mechanical wave sensed from the discharge of a blank.
  • mechanical wave or "shock wave” means an impulse traveling through the barrel structure.
  • Mechanical wave sensor 28 which may include a piezoelectric element, an accelerometer or a solid state sensor such as a strain gauge, senses the mechanical wave from the discharge of blank cartridge 20 and generates a trigger signal.
  • Optics package 30 responds to the trigger signal generated by mechanical wave sensor 28 by generating and projecting a laser beam toward the target.
  • the shock wave travels faster in the barrel than a fired bullet would travel; however, the delay associated with the shock wave reaching mechanical wave sensor 28 and the time required to activate optics package 30 and illuminate the target is approximately equal to the bullet travel time in a live fire exercise.
  • optics package 30 includes a class I laser (of either 630 or 670 nanometer wavelength) and is ruggedized to maintain the aim point over many simulated rounds of fire.
  • Optics package 30 and/or lens 32 can be adjusted to eliminate any azimuth or elevation angular offset between the direction that the laser pulses are projected and the longitudinal centerline of the bore of the barrel.
  • the laser transmitter module 22 with optics package 30 can be threadably inserted into the bore from the muzzle, as shown in Fig. 2, and then can be adjusted for azimuth and elevation at the factory or by the user.
  • the laser signal emitted by the laser transmitter module of the present invention is a laser pulse.
  • the pulse width of the transmitted pulse is set to approximately ten milliseconds thus allowing the system to measure an individual shooter's ability to "follow through” after the shot. For large ranges from the target, the effect of recoil and poor follow through can cause a target to be missed.
  • the laser signal is preferably modulated.
  • a 40 kilohertz amplitude modulation can be applied to the laser pulse.
  • the signal processing circuitry used in conjunction with the target of the present invention (described hereinbelow) is adjusted to detect a laser signal modulated with a 40 kilohertz signal and is thereby provided with further protection against false hits which may be caused by spurious emissions of light in the presence of the detectors on the target.
  • the present invention is not limited to removable laser transmitter modules; the laser transmitter module can be permanently attached and mounted within cavity 18 or fully integrated with body 12, with an opening to replace the battery power source and, optionally, controls to adjust the laser transmission direction.
  • the transmitter laser module does not alter the holstering of the firearm (in the case where the firearm is a holstered weapon, e.g., a semi-automatic pistol).
  • the laser transmitter module 22 barely protrudes from the distal end of body 12 when threadably or slidably inserted into the muzzle of barrel 10. This is an important consideration, since many law enforcement officers are required to enter a potentially dangerous crime scene with the gun holstered, thereby demonstrating no prior intent to shoot, and training exercises which would employ the training barrel of the present invention would therefore involve holstering.
  • the laser module protrudes from the distal end of body 12 (i.e., the muzzle) by less than 1 cm and more preferably no more than a few millimeters. Where the laser transmitter module is permanently mounted within the bore of the training barrel, the laser transmitter module need not protrude at all from the muzzle.
  • the training barrel of the present invention permits the firing of a blank cartridge in conjunction with emission of a laser pulse along the centerline of the bore of the barrel in order to create a realistic simulation of a live fire conditions, including the felt recoil and the firing sound. Since live ammunition cannot be chambered in the training barrel and no material can be discharged through the muzzle, the training barrel presents no safety hazard.
  • the training barrel 10 permits blank fire without discharge from the muzzle at the barrel distal end and permits repetitive fire with reliable cycling of a gas-operated (compressed air or CO 2 ) semi-automatic weapon.
  • the training barrel requires no permanent alteration of a service rifle or semi-automatic pistol and requires no replacement of any parts (other than the barrel or upper receiver) such as the recoil spring or magazine.
  • a soldier can install or remove the drop-in barrel by field stripping methods and can then alter the service weapon into a training weapon having the original appearance and holstering capability (for pistols) of the service weapon.
  • the training barrel described above replaces a convention barrel of a firearm to convert a conventional firearm into a training firearm
  • the training barrel of the present invention need not replace another barrel or even be removable.
  • the aforementioned training barrel can be part of a training firearm designed specifically for use as a training firearm.
  • the firearm training system of the present invention includes a laser-emitting training firearm, such as that described above, as well as a laser-detecting target and a computer system which processes detection information.
  • An exemplary embodiment of the firearm training system of the present invention including a training firearm 40, a laser detecting target 42, a computer 44, and a printer 46 (optional), is shown in Fig. 3.
  • Training firearm 40 can take the form of a conventional firearm fitted with the above-described replacement training barrel.
  • training firearm 40 can be a conventional firearm having a cylindrical laser transmitter module inserted into the muzzle of the barrel.
  • firearm 40 is not loaded with live ammunition or a blank when using the laser transmitter.
  • the laser transmitter is activated by the fall of the hammer or the striker, sending a mild shock wave down the barrel of the firearm and activating the laser transmitter.
  • the transmitter is very lightweight, so as not to alter the perceived balance and feel of the firearm.
  • training firearm 40 can be a laser-emitting firearm that is incapable of firing a projectile and that is designed for use only in training.
  • Training firearm 40 cannot resemble actual firearms, to meet the aesthetic, competitive, commercial or functional needs of the user.
  • the laser optics can be permanently integrated into the barrel of the firearm. Because the firearm is not able to fire a live round under any circumstance, it does not require licensing and control by the appropriate authorities such as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (BATF) in the U.S.
  • BATF Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms
  • the laser transmitter of the training firearm 40 of the present invention is preferably concentric to the bore of the barrel. This eliminates the problem of parallax associated with laser aiming and boresighting devices that are appended outside and alongside the barrel.
  • the accuracy of such extemally mounted lasers is highly range sensitive and requires constant realignment, making proper operation of such lasers difficult to understand and inconvenient to use.
  • Target 42 is responsive to the laser pulses emitted by training firearm 40 and provides appropriate feedback to the shooter via computer 44 or printer 46.
  • target 42 may take the form of a circular bull's eye, with a visible surface having circular lines drawn at regular radial intervals and horizontal and vertical lines which divide the target into quadrants.
  • a plurality of laser light detectors or sensors are arrayed across the surface of target to detect the arrival of laser pulses emitted from training firearm 40. The arrangement of the laser light detectors is such that the location of a laser hit anywhere on the face of the target can be determined from the laser detection signals generated by one or a combination of the laser light detectors in the array.
  • the laser pulses can be amplitude modulated with a 40 Hz signal in the manner described above, and the laser light detectors can include signal processing for isolating the modulated laser pulses from other signals and interference.
  • Other modulation or pulse encoding schemes may be used, and the laser light detectors may employ any variety or combination of techniques for distinguishing an electromagnetic signal from noise and interference, including, but not limited to matched filtering and range/time gating.
  • individual firearms can emit uniquely modulated or encoded laser pulses which are distinguishable to the laser light detectors, to allow the firearm training system to identify the individual source of each laser pulse detected. This feature is useful when more than one shooter may be simultaneously or sequentially engaging a target or a set of targets.
  • Each of the laser light detectors provides an electrical detection signal to a corresponding line driver, and the signal is transmitted over a shielded cable or a short-distance wireless link (e.g., radio frequency or infrared) to a portable (laptop) or desktop computer 44.
  • Power can be supplied to target 42 via a cord from a conventional AC power source, or target 42 can be battery powered.
  • Computer 44 runs software which analyzes the electrical detection signals and provides feedback information about laser detections to the shooter, scorer or trainer via a display and/or printer. More specifically, the computer processes the electrical detection signals and provides the X-Y coordinates of the hit in the plane of the target face, the time of the hit, and the validation that the laser pulse was from a suitable laser.
  • the computer can keep track of a sequence of shots, and determine information such as the time between hits, mathematical analysis of the grouping information from multiple hits on a target, and the possible cause of shooting errors based on the interpretation of the variance between the point of aim and the point of impact, and report scoring or qualifying information for a shooter engaging the target in a competition or training exercise.
  • target 42 can send relatively "raw" detection information to computer 44, with computer 44 performing significant signal processing.
  • target 44 can include onboard microprocessor and memory capabilities, such that the target simply reports the aforementioned feedback information to computer 4 for display, printing or transmission.
  • the shapes and sizes of the targets of the present invention are not limited and can be configured to meet all of the currently sanctioned shooting competition requirements. Furthermore, multiple targets at one range or location can be connected to a single computer for processing of laser hits of one or more shooters on the targets.
  • a training firearm 50 which is similar in size, shape and feel to the actual service firearm used with the live fire scaled target, emits laser pulses along the longitudinal centerline of the barrel toward the target in the manner described above.
  • each laser light detector of the scaled target provides an electrical detection signal to a corresponding line driver, and the signal is transmitted over a shielded cable to computer 44 via a power supply and local interface.
  • Computer 44 is programmed with software adapted to score the sequence of laser hits in accordance with qualification requirements and produces a standard format scoring record (e.g., a printed form).
  • the laser detection system advantageously allows each laser hit to be individually scored as it is fired by the shooter. In this case, the two 120 second segments of the exercise can be conducted while the range is hot and each shot can be scored, thereby avoiding the confusion associated with allowing the shooter to fire both ten round clips into the target before attempting to score the target, as discussed above.
  • the laser-detecting targets of the firearm training system of the present invention can also be pop up or active targets at conventional ranges (e.g., three hundred meters or more).
  • a wireless communication link is preferably used to transmit information from the active target of the present invention to a scoring computer for shot-by-shot reporting of the qualification exercise results.
  • the information provided by the sensors detecting the laser pulse can also be used to activate a host of devices, such as flash bang generators, target turning and lifting mechanisms, and even animated or computerized results (e.g., explosions, bullet holes, etc.).
  • Computer 44 is capable of receiving, processing and displaying hit information in real time, such that a scorer, instructor or spectator may view the progress of a shooting competition or training exercise while in progress.
  • the display can be provided at the shooter's location, for the immediate viewing audience, and simultaneously, at multiple locations worldwide.
  • the firearm system of the present invention includes a standard printer 46 (Fig. 3) for printing out shooting details including diagnosis of problems and suggested training solutions for correcting a shooter's technique.
  • the cost of maintaining a suitable live fire range at or near the campus has caused many colleges to eliminate their shooting sports program.
  • the present invention eliminates the need for such a range.
  • the cost of traveling to other schools or competition sites, a significant expense and application of time, would be eliminated. would reinvigorate shooting sports at the college level.
  • a facility can have several computer/target "firing points". This enables teams to compete against each other without having to travel to distant locations.
  • a number of computer/target "firing points" at one location can be linked into a local area network (LAN) and that LAN can in turn be linked to one or more LANs some distance away.
  • LAN local area network
  • WAN wide area network
  • the event for competition can be selected from a menu of options available at the competitor's location, and control of the event at the competitor's site (e.g., presentation of pop-up or moving targets) can be controlled from the competitor's local computer rather than from commands sent from the competition control unit over the Internet.
  • control of the event at the competitor's site e.g., presentation of pop-up or moving targets
  • the opportunity to send real time video scenarios, including moving targets (i.e., skeet, trap, pop up), and animated target reactions (fall down, explode, shoot back), from the web site to the competitor will expand.
  • the firearm training system of the present invention can present video/graphic target scenarios on a wall or screen via connection to one or more digital video projection systems.
  • projection systems include products by Sony, Proximal, and Panasonic.
  • the impact point of the laser fired at such a projection can be determined with some accuracy by hit detection cameras properly calibrated to see the projected target area. The process by which such hit detection cameras operate is known.
  • hit detection cameras see the laser hit on target generated by the transmitter described above.
  • competition sites may be established at convenient locations such as recreation centers, shopping malls, bowling alleys, and sports clubs. Traditional shooting ranges and clubs may also install them. Because the equipment is portable and easy to set up, competition sites may be set up as part of temporary events such as state fairs, special championships at sports halls and auditoriums, and the like.
  • the capability to coordinate competitive shooting events or training exercises simultaneously conducted at multiple sites introduces unique problems and issues.
  • a competitor or trainee at one site to gain an unfair advantage over other competitors by shortening the range to the target, supporting the training firearm in an unauthorized manner (e.g., fixing or mounting the firearm in a vice), or using a more accurate firearm than other competitors or trainees.
  • the opportunity for cheating in such a manner is, of course, increased in circumstances where the competitor or trainee is not directly observed by officiating or supervisory personnel.
  • the firearm training system of the present invention employs means that allow competitors at one location to be reasonably certain of the accuracy and fairness of the results achieved at any other location without requiring the presence of some neutral observer or referee at each competition site.
  • the inclusion of such a cheating prevention methodology in the invention expands the scope of the potential use to individual homes, millions of which are already linked to the Internet.
  • an ultrasonic transmitter is incorporated in the training firearm of the present invention and transmits an ultrasonic acoustic signal at the instant the laser fires, thereby providing an acoustical signal traveling at a known speed (i.e., the speed of sound).
  • the target includes an ultrasonic receiver adapted to detect the ultrasonic pulse transmitted from the training firearm. Since the laser pulse travels at the speed of light and the ultrasonic signal travels at the speed of sound, a measurable delay exists between the arrival time of the laser signal at the target and the arrival time of the ultrasonic signal at the target.
  • An accurate estimate of the distance to between the firearm and the target can be calculated by multiplying the time delay between the laser and ultrasonic pulses by the speed of sound (this estimate ignores the travel time of the laser pulse to the target, which is less than 1 microsecond).
  • This range calculation can be performed by the target receiver electronics or by the computer.
  • This range calculation which is reported via the network to a controlling unit, indicates whether the competitor is too close (or too far) from the target, thereby defeating any attempt at cheating in a competition or qualification exercise (by shooting from an easier and shorter distance from the target).
  • the ultrasonic anti-cheating feature is well suited to simultaneous head-to-head competition over communications networks, such as the Internet, in which competitors in different geographic locations can compete simultaneously and in large groups.
  • the training barrel shown in Fig. 2 can be modified to incorporate an ultrasonic transmitter 34.
  • Optics package 30 and lens 32 which are concentric with the longitudinal centerline of the barrel, are sized to permit ultrasonic transmitter 34 to be positioned along the periphery of the optics package within barrel 10.
  • mechanical wave sensor 22 triggers both the laser transmitter and the laser emitting optics package 30 to respectively emit a laser and an ultrasonic pulse at the same time.
  • the ultrasonic wavefront widens with distance; thus, the ultrasonic pulse is detectable across the entire target.
  • an ultrasonic detector 34 can be located on the target adjacent the laser light detectors so as not to interfere with detection of the laser pulse.
  • an ultrasonic detector 48 can be positioned between targets on the 25 Meter Alternate C Course target shown in Fig. 4. While the ultrasonic detector is preferably in the same plane and as close as possible to the laser light detectors, the precise location of the ultrasonic detector is not critical due to the relatively wide beamwidth of the ultrasonic pulse and due to the fact the ultrasonic pulse is used only to measure time/distance (and not X-Y position).
  • Another technique for preventing cheating in accordance with the present invention involves including encrypted information in the laser pulse to confirm to the target that the training firearm laser transmitter being "fired" is indeed authorized for the competition.
  • Serial number registration such as that in common use with electronic equipment, can be encoded in the laser pulse to help ensure that the competitor shooting is in fact the person registered for the event.
  • registration information could be combined with novel developments in the field of fingerprint ID firearm trigger locks to further control surrogate competitors.
  • the local computer or network system can include provisions for preventing cheating.
  • the computer can display instructions for each competitor to fire at a particular comer of the target in a random sequence determined by the computer or at secondary targets placed at the periphery of the primary target.
  • Each competitor is required to aim and fire at the target in accordance with instructions unknown in advance. Since hitting the points in sequence requires some degree of rapid change in the point of aim, the competitor is precluded from locking the firearm down in a vice or rack to eliminate errors.
  • Such an aim point check could be introduced at any time in the competition, and such a check can be implemented over a networked system.
  • the firearm training system of the present invention is also useful for closed-loop zeroing of sighted firearms.
  • the training firearm with the laser is mounted on a high-accuracy mandrel, is aimed at the target, and an initial estimation is made of a point of impact for a range of twenty-five meters or longer (i.e., the aforementioned "boresighting" process).
  • the shooter then fires a group of simulated shots. Assuming the shot group meets the criteria for zeroing (e.g., the hit points fall with a 4 cm diameter circle), the computer determines the center of mass of the shot group of detected laser pulses and reports the center of mass information to the shooter (e.g., displayed on the computer screen or printed).
  • the sights are then adjusted to compensate for the estimated offset between the aim point and the calculated center of mass.
  • another simulated shot group is fired and center of mass is again compared to the aim point in an iterative process which is repeated until the aim point is at the center of the target and within an acceptable offset, at which point the sights are deemed zeroed.
  • the use of laser pulses rather than projectiles in the zeroing process advantageously conserves resources.
  • the center of mass calculation is performed by the computer, it is not necessary to limit the size of the shot group to three, as is required with live fire in order to accurately estimate the center of mass (and to conserve resources).
  • Larger shot groups provide a better estimate of the offset of the sights than a three-shot group, which may reduce the number of zeroing iterations required to acceptably zero the firearm.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Radar, Positioning & Navigation (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Aiming, Guidance, Guns With A Light Source, Armor, Camouflage, And Targets (AREA)
EP20030026590 1997-08-25 1998-08-25 Système en réseau pour l'entraínement au tir d'arme à feu sur cible utilisant un laser Withdrawn EP1398595A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US5693797P 1997-08-25 1997-08-25
US56937P 1997-08-25
EP98957307A EP1007896B1 (fr) 1997-08-25 1998-08-25 Systeme en reseau pour l'entrainement au tir d'arme a feu sur cible laser

Related Parent Applications (2)

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EP98957307A Division EP1007896B1 (fr) 1997-08-25 1998-08-25 Systeme en reseau pour l'entrainement au tir d'arme a feu sur cible laser
EP98957307A Division-Into EP1007896B1 (fr) 1997-08-25 1998-08-25 Systeme en reseau pour l'entrainement au tir d'arme a feu sur cible laser

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Cited By (8)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102006051242A1 (de) * 2006-08-09 2008-02-14 Ewald Weigt Präzisionstechnik GmbH Zielbox, Übungsschießanlage mit Gewehr
WO2014004711A1 (fr) * 2012-06-26 2014-01-03 Tello Selso Système universel d'entraînement au tir à la carabine
CN109186332A (zh) * 2018-11-05 2019-01-11 王宾 一种手枪速射模拟训练仪
CN109579624A (zh) * 2018-12-05 2019-04-05 南京润景丰创信息技术有限公司 一种悬挂式侧转、反转超声智能报靶系统
US10739109B1 (en) 2016-10-28 2020-08-11 Selso Tello Firearm marksmanship system with chamber insert
CN114199075A (zh) * 2021-12-21 2022-03-18 北京华如科技股份有限公司 一种模拟胸环靶激光训练系统
CN115615243A (zh) * 2022-12-20 2023-01-17 江苏金鹏航天智能装备有限公司 一种应用图像处理技术的综合校靶管理系统及方法
CN116678263A (zh) * 2023-07-28 2023-09-01 烟台欣飞智能系统有限公司 轻武器射击模拟智能集成靶面

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US4352665A (en) * 1981-01-12 1982-10-05 Cerberonics, Inc. Small arms laser training device
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Cited By (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102006051242A1 (de) * 2006-08-09 2008-02-14 Ewald Weigt Präzisionstechnik GmbH Zielbox, Übungsschießanlage mit Gewehr
WO2014004711A1 (fr) * 2012-06-26 2014-01-03 Tello Selso Système universel d'entraînement au tir à la carabine
US9335125B2 (en) 2012-06-26 2016-05-10 Selso Tello Universal firearm marksmanship system
US10145653B2 (en) 2012-06-26 2018-12-04 Selso Tello Universal firearm marksmanship system
US11506468B2 (en) 2012-06-26 2022-11-22 Selso Tello Universal firearm marksmanship system
US10900749B2 (en) 2012-06-26 2021-01-26 Selso Tello Universal firearm marksmanship system
US11002512B2 (en) 2016-10-28 2021-05-11 Selso Tello Firearm marksmanship system with chamber insert
US10739109B1 (en) 2016-10-28 2020-08-11 Selso Tello Firearm marksmanship system with chamber insert
CN109186332A (zh) * 2018-11-05 2019-01-11 王宾 一种手枪速射模拟训练仪
CN109186332B (zh) * 2018-11-05 2024-01-16 王宾 一种手枪速射模拟训练仪
CN109579624A (zh) * 2018-12-05 2019-04-05 南京润景丰创信息技术有限公司 一种悬挂式侧转、反转超声智能报靶系统
CN109579624B (zh) * 2018-12-05 2023-09-15 南京润景丰创信息技术有限公司 一种悬挂式侧转、反转超声智能报靶系统
CN114199075A (zh) * 2021-12-21 2022-03-18 北京华如科技股份有限公司 一种模拟胸环靶激光训练系统
CN115615243A (zh) * 2022-12-20 2023-01-17 江苏金鹏航天智能装备有限公司 一种应用图像处理技术的综合校靶管理系统及方法
CN116678263A (zh) * 2023-07-28 2023-09-01 烟台欣飞智能系统有限公司 轻武器射击模拟智能集成靶面
CN116678263B (zh) * 2023-07-28 2023-10-27 烟台欣飞智能系统有限公司 轻武器射击模拟智能集成靶面

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