US20090305197A1

US20090305197A1 - Apparatus and System For Simulating of Shooting a Grenade Launcher

Info

Publication number: US20090305197A1
Application number: US12/308,857
Authority: US
Inventors: Seung Chan Lim; In-Chan Paek; Kang Hoon Lee; Dae Hyun Kang
Original assignee: Korea Elecom Co Ltd
Current assignee: Korea Elecom Co Ltd
Priority date: 2006-06-29
Filing date: 2007-06-21
Publication date: 2009-12-10
Also published as: WO2008002036A1; KR100833162B1; KR20080001732A

Abstract

A grenade launcher simulation apparatus and a grenade launcher simulation system are provided. The grenade launcher simulation system includes a grenade launcher simulation apparatus, a central control device, and at least one or more personal sensing terminals. When shooting information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received, the personal sensing terminal to which the personal sensing terminal is registered transmits impact point location information to the central control device or the personal sensing terminal. The central control device transmits the received impact point location information to other personal sensing terminals, and the personal sensing terminals that receive the impact point location information personal sensing terminal compare location information of the personal sensing terminals with the impact point location information to generate damage information and transmit the damage information to the central control device or the personal sensing terminal to which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered. The personal sensing terminal that receives the damage information displays shooting location and damage location of the personal sensing terminal and damage location on a display unit. Accordingly, it is possible to simulate an actual grenade launcher by using a wireless communication network.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a grenade launcher simulation system, and more particularly, to a grenade launcher simulation apparatus, a personal sensing terminal, a central control device, and a grenade launcher simulation system in which an actual grenade launching apparatus is similarly simulated using a wireless communication network.

BACKGROUND ART

Recently, in the military training, a multiple integrated laser battle system has been introduced to train soldiers. In the multiple integrated battle system, the soldiers can carry out simulated battle like an actual battle. In the multiple integrated laser battle system, a small arms transmitter for emitting laser beams instead of a gun barrel for shooting a bullet is provided to a rifle such as M16 and K2 or a machine gun, and a laser sensor is attached to a helmet or a weapon. The laser beams are shot to the laser sensor, and the hitting is determined. In the multiple integrated laser battle system, since a battle can be carried out without actual killing, battle ability of soldiers and command ability of commanders can be greatly improved.
Conventionally, there has been provided a grenade launcher simulation system in which a grenade launcher using laser beams is used for simulated training. An actual grenade launcher is a howitzer of which bomb moves with a parabolic trajectory. On the contrary, the laser beams propagate in a straight path. Therefore, there is a problem in that the grenade launcher simulation system using the laser beams cannot directly simulate the actual grenade launcher.
In addition, in the actual howitzer, since the bomb moves with a parabolic trajectory to hit over a predetermined distance, the damaged place does exist over the predetermined distance. However, in the grenade launcher simulation system using the laser beams, due to the straight path, all objects in the laser path is damaged.
In order to solve the problems, a battle simulation system is disclosed in Korean Patent Application Publication No. 10-2002-22033. FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the battle simulation system disclosed in the Patent Document. In the battle simulation system disclosed in the Patent Document, in order to accurately simulate the howitzer by using the laser beams, a complex D-CODE is introduced, and hit location and output level are adjusted with a complicated manner.
In addition, since the actual grenade launcher is a howitzer, the bomb is moved over a hill or an obstacle to be dropped on a target. However, since the laser beams emitted from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus propagate in a straight path, the laser beams are blocked by the hill or the obstacle, and the grenade launcher simulation system cannot simulate such an actual state, so that its result is different from an actual result.
In consideration of the circumstances, the inventors propose an approach for accurately simulating such a howitzer as a grenade launcher by using a wireless communication network as a substitute for laser beams.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Technical Problem

In order to solve the aforementioned problems, the present invention provides a grenade launcher simulation system using a wireless communication network, capable of having characteristics similar to those of an actual launcher.
The present invention also provides a high-performance grenade launcher simulation system without influence of communication failure.
The present invention also provides a grenade launcher simulation apparatus, a personal sensing terminal, and a central control device constituting the aforementioned grenade launcher simulation system.

Technical Solution

In order to achieve the aforementioned objects, according to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a grenade launcher simulation apparatus for simulating a grenade launcher, comprising: a memory which stores identification information of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus; a burst signal input unit which receives a burst signal and transmits a operation signal; an electronic compass which detects an orientation and an elevation; a communication interface which receives and transmits signals in accordance with a predetermined protocol; and a controller which, when a operation signal is received from the burst signal input unit, receives information on the orientation and elevation from the electronic compass, generates a packet including the information on orientation and elevation and the identification information of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus, and transmits the packet through communication interface.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a personal sensing terminal comprising: a memory which stores identification information of the personal sensing terminal and identification information of an grenade launcher simulation apparatus allocated to the personal sensing terminal; a GPS signal receiver which receives GPS location information; a communication interface which receives and transmits signals in a wire or wireless manner in accordance with a predetermined protocol; a controller which controls whole operations, wherein the controller comprises a shooting information transmission module, and wherein, when shooting information and identification information of an grenade launcher simulation apparatus are received from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus through the communication interface, the shooting information transmission module determines a current location of the personal sensing terminal from the GPS signal receiver, calculates a impact point location based on the shooting information and the current location information, and transmits information on the impact point location through the communication interface.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a personal sensing terminal comprising: a memory which stores identification information of the personal sensing terminal and identification information of an grenade launcher simulation apparatus allocated to the personal sensing terminal; a GPS signal receiver which receives GPS location information; a first communication interface which receives and transmits signals in accordance with a predetermined first protocol; a second communication interface which receives and transmits signals in accordance with a predetermined second protocol; and a controller which controls whole operations, wherein the controller comprises a shooting information transmission module, and wherein, when shooting information and identification information of an grenade launcher simulation apparatus are received from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus through the first communication interface, the shooting information transmission module determines a current location of the personal sensing terminal from the GPS signal receiver, calculates a impact point location based on the shooting information and the current location information, and transmits information on the impact point location through the second communication interface.
The personal sensing terminal according to the third aspect may communicate with an external grenade launcher simulation apparatus and/or another personal sensing terminal through a first communication interface and with an external central control device through a second communication interface.
In the personal sensing terminal according to the second and third aspects, the controller of the personal sensing terminal may further comprise a location information transmission module and a DGPS module, and the location information transmission module may receive a GPS signal through a GPS signal receiver, receive error information of the GPS signal through the DGPS module, acquire accurate location information by correcting the GPS signal based on the error information, and transmit the location information.
In the personal sensing terminal according to the second and third aspects, the controller of the personal sensing terminal may further comprise a damage information transmission module, and when the information on the impact point location according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received, the damage information transmission module may compare the received information on the impact point location with the information of the personal sensing terminal to determine death or damage of a shooter of the personal sensing terminal, generate damage information, and transmit the damage information. Particularly, after generating the damage information, the damage information transmission module may acquire communication preemption right through communication to other neighboring personal sensing terminals and transmit the damage information.
In the personal sensing terminal according to the second and third aspects, the controller personal sensing terminal may further comprise a shooting result reporting module, the personal sensing terminal may further comprise a display unit, and when damage information according to shooting of a grenade launcher simulation apparatus registered to the personal sensing terminal is received, the shooting result reporting module may extract damage location information from the damage information and display the current location of the personal sensing terminal and the damage location on the display unit.
In the personal sensing terminal according to the second and third aspects, the shooting information which the personal sensing terminal receives from the external grenade launcher simulation apparatus may include information on orientation and elevation of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a central control device for simulating a grenade launcher in cooperation with a grenade launcher simulation apparatus registered to at least one or more personal sensing terminals and an arbitrary personal sensing terminal, wherein the central control device comprises: a communication interface which receives and transmits data; a DGPS beacon signal receiver which receives a DGPS signal for correcting error of a GPS signal transmitted from an external DGPS base station; and a controller which controls whole operations, wherein the controller comprises a shooting information broadcasting module and a damage information transmission module, wherein, when impact point location information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received through the communication interface, the shooting information broadcasting module transmits the impact point location information to the personal sensing terminal, and wherein, when, the damage information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received, the damage information transmission module transmits the damage information to the personal sensing terminal to which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered.
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a grenade launcher simulation system having at least one or more personal sensing terminals of soldiers, a grenade launcher simulation apparatus which is registered to one of the personal sensing terminals, and a central control device which controls whole operations, wherein the grenade launcher simulation apparatus comprises: a first memory which stores identification information of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus; an electronic compass which detects an orientation and an elevation of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus; a burst signal input unit which receives a burst signal and transmits a operation signal based on the burst signal; a first communication interface which receives and transmits data; and a first controller which, when the operation signal is received from the burst signal input unit, transmits information on the orientation and the elevation and the identification information to the personal sensing terminal to which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered, wherein the personal sensing terminal comprises: a second memory which stores identification information of the personal sensing terminal and identification information of an grenade launcher simulation apparatus which is registered to the personal sensing terminal; a second communication interface which receives and transmits data; a first GPS signal receiver which receives a GPS signal to detect location information; and a second controller which, when shooting information is received from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus, calculates impact point location based on information received from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus and the location information of the personal sensing terminal and transmits information on the impact point location to another personal sensing terminal, and when impact point location information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received, generates damage information associated with the personal sensing terminal based on the current location information of the personal sensing terminal and the impact point location information and transmits the damage information, and wherein the central control device comprises: a third communication interface which receives and transmits data; a third controller which, when impact point location information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received from the personal sensing terminal, transmits the impact point location information to another personal sensing terminal, and when damage information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received from the personal sensing terminal, transmits the damage information to a personal sensing terminal to which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered.
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a grenade launcher simulation system having at least one or more personal sensing terminals of soldiers, a grenade launcher simulation apparatus which is registered to one of the personal sensing terminals, and a central control device which controls whole operations, wherein the grenade launcher simulation apparatus comprises: a first memory which stores identification information of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus; an electronic compass which detects an orientation and an elevation of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus; a burst signal input unit which receives a burst signal and transmits a operation signal based on the burst signal; a first communication interface which receives and transmits data; and a first controller which, when the operation signal is received from the burst signal input unit, transmits information on the orientation and the elevation and the identification information to the personal sensing terminal to which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered, wherein the personal sensing terminal comprises: a second memory which stores identification information of the personal sensing terminal and identification information of an grenade launcher simulation apparatus which is registered to the personal sensing terminal; a second communication interface which receives and transmits data; a first GPS signal receiver which receives a GPS signal to detect location information; and a second controller which, when shooting information is received from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus, calculates impact point location based on information received from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus and the location information of the personal sensing terminal and transmits information on the impact point location to the central control device, and when impact point location information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received, generates damage information associated with the personal sensing terminal based on the current location information of the personal sensing terminal and the impact point location information and transmits the damage information, and wherein the central control device comprises: a third communication interface which receives and transmits data; and a third controller which, when impact point location information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received from the personal sensing terminal, transmits the impact point location information to another personal sensing terminal, and when damage information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received from the personal sensing terminal, transmits the damage information to a personal sensing terminal to which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered.
In the grenade launcher simulation system according to the fifth and sixth aspects, the personal sensing terminal may further comprises a display unit, and when the second controller of the personal sensing terminal receives the damage information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus, the second controller may extract damage location based on the damage information and display the location of the personal sensing terminal and the damage location on the display unit.
In the grenade launcher simulation system according to the fifth and sixth aspects, the second communication interface of the personal sensing terminal may be a communication module for supporting a Zigbee communication protocol and communicates with a first communication interface of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus and/or a second communication interface of another personal sensing terminal, the third communication interface may be a communication module for RF communication protocol and communicates with a fourth communication interface of the central control device, and the second communication interface and the third communication interface may use different protocols and different frequency bands.
In the grenade launcher simulation system according to the fifth and sixth aspects, the personal sensing terminal and the central control device may be synchronized to each other with reference to a time of the GPS signal receiver, the personal sensing terminal may be activated to receive data in a period of a predetermined time interval during a time interval which is allocated to the personal sensing terminal in each period, and the central control device may transmit data during the time interval when the personal sensing terminal is activated, thereby minimizing power consumption of the personal sensing terminal.
The grenade launcher simulation apparatus, the personal sensing terminal, the central control device, and the grenade launcher simulation system can simulate an actual grenade launcher by using a wireless communication network.

ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS

According to the present invention, an operation of a grenade launcher (i.e., howitzer) can be accurately simulated. As a result, it is possible to overcome a limit of a simulation system using a laser beam which propagates in a straight line, and thus an operation of an actual grenade launcher can be similarly simulated. Therefore, training effectiveness can be maximized.
In addition, in a grenade launcher simulation system according to the present invention, shot state information and/or damage information are transmitted to a plurality of personal sensing terminals, and each personal sensing terminal connected to a grenade launcher simulation apparatus displays shooting result information through an LCD screen. Thus, training can be accurately carried out since a trainer can correctly recognize a shooting result, and then the shooting result is fed back.
In addition, according to the grenade launcher simulation system of the present invention, an actual grenade launcher can be similarly simulated while minimizing a load of an overall communication network.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a conventional battle simulation system.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a grenade launcher simulation apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a personal sensing terminal according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a central control device according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is an overall view of a grenade launcher simulation system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating an operation of a grenade launcher simulation system according to a first embodiment of the present embodiment.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a shooting result displayed on a display unit of a grenade launcher simulation apparatus of a grenade launcher simulation system according to a first embodiment of the present embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a grenade launcher simulation system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a grenade launcher simulation system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a time chart illustrating an operation of a grenade launcher simulation system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

BEST MODE

Grenade Launcher Simulation Apparatus
Hereinafter, a structure and operation of a grenade launcher simulation apparatus 200 according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a structure of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus 200.
According to an embodiment of the present embodiment, the grenade launcher simulation apparatus 200 has the same structure as an actual grenade launcher, and operates when a shooter pulls a trigger.
When the shooter manipulates the grenade launcher simulation apparatus to operate, shooting information (e.g., orientation and elevation) of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is sent to a personal sensing terminal in which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered.
Referring to FIG. 2, the grenade launcher simulation apparatus 200 includes a controller 202, a burst signal input unit 204, a Zigbee communication module 206, an electronic compass 208, and a memory 209.
The burst signal input unit 204 receives a burst signal when a trigger is pulled by a shooter. At the same time, an operation signal is transmitted to the controller 202.
The electronic compass 208 detects information on orientation and elevation of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus. The controller 202 collects the information on orientation and elevation from the electronic compass.
The Zigbee communication module 206 supports a Zigbee communication protocol. Further, the Zigbee communication module 206 can transmit/receive data to/from the personal sensing terminal in which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered.
The memory 209 stores and manages an identification number which is assigned in an initial registration process by the personal sensing terminal of a soldier who carries the grenade launcher simulation apparatus.
The controller 202 provides overall control to the grenade launcher simulation apparatus. The controller 202 includes a shooting information transmission module 2021 and an initial registration module 2023.
Upon receiving the operation signal from an external element through the burst signal input unit 204, the shooting information transmission module 2021 of the controller 202 receives from the electronic compass 208 the information on orientation and elevation of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus. A packet including the received information and identification information stored in the memory 209 is generated and transmitted through the Zigbee communication module 206 to the personal sensing terminal in which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered.
Upon receiving the identification number and a registration request signal from the external personal sensing terminal, the initial registration module 2023 of the controller 202 stores the received identification number to the memory 209. The identification number includes a network identification number which is the same as that of the personal sensing terminal transmitting the registration request signal. The identification number for the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is also stored and registered in the memory of the personal sensing terminal transmitting the registration request signal.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, the grenade launcher simulation apparatus may further include a display unit, and the controller 202 further includes a shooting result display module 2025. When damage information resulted from shooting of the personal sensing terminal, in which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered, is received, the shooting result display module 2025 of the controller 202 displays on the display unit a current location and a shot location depending on the damage information. As a result, the shooter who operates the grenade launcher simulation apparatus can check his or her shooting result on a real time basis through the display unit.
Personal Sensing Terminal
Now, a structure and operation of a personal sensing terminal 220 according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the personal sensing terminal 220 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Referring to FIG. 3, the personal sensing terminal 220, which is equipment carrier by all solders who participate in training, includes a controller 221, a wireless communication interface 222, a GPS signal receiver 223, a DGPS module 224, a state reporting unit 225, a display unit 226, a memory 227, and a Zigbee communication module 229.
The wireless communication interface 222 wirelessly transmits/receives data to/from an external central control device. The wireless communication interface 222 may be integrated into the personal sensing terminal 220 together with other components, or may be manufactured physically separately from other components. If the wireless communication interface is manufactured physically separately from other components of the personal sensing terminal, the wireless communication interface is preferably wired-connected to the controller of the personal sensing terminal.
The Zigbee communication module 229 transmits and receives a signal according to a Zigbee communication protocol. By using the Zigbee communication module 229, data communication can be achieved with respect to adjacent personal sensing terminals or with respect to firing machines such as the grenade launcher simulation apparatus which is registered in the personal sensing terminal. The Zigbee communication module 229 transmits/receives data to/from an element which is located closer than the wireless communication interface 222.
The display unit 226 includes a panel (e.g., LCD, PDP, etc.) and displays a screen transmitted from the controller. In particular, under the control of the controller, a shot location depending on the shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus and a current location are displayed on the display unit, so that the shooting result of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus can be reported to a desired soldier.
The GPS signal receiver 223 checks the current location information by the aid of GPS and transmits the current location information to the controller 221. The GPS signal receiver 223 may be integrated into the personal sensing terminal 220 together with other components or may be manufactured physically separately from other components. If the GPS signal receiver 223 is manufactured physically separately from other components of the personal sensing terminal, the wireless communication interface is preferably wired-connected to the controller of the personal sensing terminal.
The DGPS module 224 receives error information regarding a GPS signal from a DBPS beacon signal receiver of the central control device by using the wireless communication interface 222. Further, by using the GPS error information, the DGPS module 224 corrects errors of the GPS location information received by the GPS signal receiver 223. Thus, accurate location information is provided to the controller 221.
The state reporting unit 225 of the personal sensing terminal 220 is constructed of a speaker or a lamp (e.g., LED). Under the control of the controller 221, information on an alive-or-dead state of a solder and/or damage information and other state information are reported to the soldier through the speaker or the LED. In addition to the occurrence of death, the damage information is reported even when bombing occurs nearby without damage. Therefore, a current state is informed to the soldier through the state reporting unit, and thus the soldier can be provided with information to facilitate recognition of the current state.
In an initial registration process, the memory 227 of the personal sensing terminal 220 stores a serial number assigned to each personal sensing terminal and identification information on the grenade launcher simulation apparatus of a solder carrying his or her personal sensing terminal. In addition thereto, the memory 227 may store information on other types of firing machines carried by the solder and information on ammunitions.
The controller 221 of the personal sensing terminal 220 provides overall control to the personal sensing terminal. The controller 221 includes a firing machine registration module 230, a location information transmission module 232, a shooting information transmission module 234, a damage information transmission module 236, and a shooting result reporting module 238.
In an initial registration process, information regarding the grenade launcher simulation apparatus of the soldier having the personal sensing terminal 220 and information regarding other firing machines are registered in respective personal sensing terminals by the firing machine registration module 230 of the controller 221. According to the firing machine registration module, identification information on the grenade launcher simulation apparatus carried by the soldier is stored and registered in the memory 227 by the personal sensing terminal carried by the soldier.
For every predetermined time period or at the request of the central control device, the location information transmission module 232 of the controller 221 checks information on an exact current location by using the GPS signal receiver 223 and the DGPS module 224 of the personal sensing terminal. Furthermore, the location information transmission module 232 periodically transmits the current location information to the central control device by using the wireless communication interface. In addition, when the central control device requests the transmission of the current location information, the location information transmission module 232 checks and transmits the exact current location information.
Upon receiving shooting information containing orientation and elevation from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus registered in the memory 227 by using the Zigbee communication module of the personal sensing terminal, the shooting information transmission module 234 of the controller 221 estimates an impact point location according to a predetermined equation by using the received information on orientation and the current location information, and then transmits the estimated impact point location information to an external element.
Upon receiving the impact point location information from the external element, the damage information transmission module 236 estimates an alive-or-dead state or a damage state by using the received impact point location information. If it is determined that the solder is dead or is in an expected damage zone, the damage information transmission module 236 generates damage information and transmits it to an external element. The damage information transmission module determines a region located within a specific radius from an impact point as a ‘damage zone’ in association with death, determines a region location within a specific radius from the damage zone as a ‘damage warning zone’, and determines a region other than the damage warning zone as a ‘safe zone’. The determination result is included in the damage information. The damage information generated by the damage information transmission module contains identification information of a personal sensing terminal, shot firing machine information, current location information, state information, and so on.
According to the damage information, the damage information transmission module reports the alive-or-dead state or the damage state through the state reporting unit of the personal sensing terminal, so that the solder can recognize the current state. When located in the ‘damage warning zone’ or the like, even if there is no damage, the damage information transmission module may report the current state to the solder through the state reporting unit of the personal sensing terminal.
Meanwhile, according to another embodiment of the present invention, when the personal sensing terminal is located within the damage zone, the damage information transmission module ensures communication preemption right by communicating with adjacent personal sensing terminals. Then, a personal sensing terminal ensuring the communication preemption right transmits its damage information to an external element. If there is no personal sensing terminal existing within the damage zone, a personal sensing terminal located within the damage warning zone ensures the communication preemption right by communicating with adjacent personal sensing terminals. Then, a personal sensing terminal ensuring the communication preemption right transmits its damage information to an external element.
Upon receiving damage information resulted from shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus from the external element, the shooting result reporting module 238 extracts shooting location information from the received damage information, and displays on the display unit of the personal sensing terminal the current location and the shot location. When the display unit is included in the grenade launcher simulation apparatus, the shooting result reporting module 238 transmits the current location information and the shot location information to the grenade launcher simulation apparatus. Therefore, a soldier who operates the grenade launcher simulation apparatus decides if his or her shooting has be accurate using the state displayed on the display unit of the personal sensing terminal or the grenade launcher simulation apparatus. This decision can be referenced when determining a shooting direction and elevation.
Central Control Device
Now, a structure and operation of a central control device 210 according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the central control device 210 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Referring to FIG. 4, the central control device 210 includes a controller 211, a wireless communication interface 212, and a DGPS beacon signal receiver 213.
The wireless communication interface 212 wirelessly transmits/receive a signal to/from the personal sensing terminal.
The DGPS beacon signal receiver 213 receives error information regarding a GPS signal from an external DGPS base station.
The controller 211 of the central control device 210 provides overall control to the central control device. The controller 211 includes a terminal location update module 240, a shooting information broadcasting module 242, a shot information transmission module 244, and a DGPS signal transmission module 246.
The terminal location update module 240 extracts current location information from a data packet periodically received from a personal sensing terminal, and updates location information on the personal sensing terminal.
When impact point location information resulted from shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received from the personal sensing terminal, the shooting information broadcasting module 242 broadcasts the impact point location information to other personal sensing terminals by using the wireless communication interface.
When the damage information resulted from shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received from any one of the personal sensing terminals, the shot information transmission module 244 retransmits the damage information to a personal sensing terminal in which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered.
The DGPS signal transmission module 246 repeatedly broadcasts error information on the GPS signal transmitted to the DGPS beacon signal receiver 213 to each personal sensing terminal by using the wireless communication interface.
Grenade Launcher Simulation System
Now, structures and operations of the aforementioned grenade launcher simulation apparatus and the grenade launcher simulation system having a personal sensing terminal and a central control device will be described in detail according to an embodiment of the present invention.
In the grenade launcher simulation system of the present invention, personal sensing terminals are provided to all soldiers participating in training. Grenade launcher simulation apparatuses are selectively provided to the soldiers. Each personal sensing terminal is registered in the central control device by performing an initial registration process. The initial registration process is performed as follows.
The central control device assigns identification information or the like to the personal sensing terminals. A soldier carrying a grenade launcher simulation apparatus registers the grenade launcher simulation apparatus to his or her personal sensing terminal. For example, in the initial registration process, in order to assign an identification number or the like, relevant information may be transmitted to respective personal sensing terminals by using a Zigbee communication module or an infrared communication module.
The grenade launcher simulation apparatus operates after each personal sensing terminal is subject to the initial registration process.
Hereinafter, an operation of a grenade launcher simulation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail.

First Embodiment

Now, a structure and operation of a grenade launcher simulation system according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 5.
FIG. 5 is an overall view of a grenade launcher simulation system 500 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 5, the grenade launcher simulation system 500 includes a central control device 50, personal sensing terminals 61 to 65 attached to bodies of soldiers P1 to P5 participating in a simulation operation, and a grenade launcher simulation apparatus 70 carried by the soldier P5.
In the grenade launcher simulation system 500 of the present invention, all soldiers have personal sensing terminals registered in an initial registration process. The soldier P5 has the grenade launcher simulation apparatus 70. The grenade launcher simulation apparatus is stored and registered in the personal sensing terminal carried by the soldier P5.
FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating an operation of a grenade launcher simulation system according to the present embodiment. Now, the operation of the grenade launcher simulation system having the aforementioned structure according to the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 6.
When the grenade launcher simulation apparatus operates, shooting information (e.g., orientation and elevation) of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is transmitted to a personal sensing terminal of a soldier by using a Zigbee communication module (step 600). The personal sensing terminal estimates an impact point location of a grenade by using its current location information and the shooting information, and the estimated impact point location information is transmitted to the central control device by using the wireless communication interface (step 610).
The central control device which has received the impact point location information broadcasts the impact point location information to the personal sensing terminals carried by the respective soldiers, by using the wireless communication interface (step 620). Upon receiving the impact point location information from the central control device, each personal sensing terminal decides an alive-or-dead state and a damage by using the impact point location information (step 630). Thereafter, personal sensing terminals experiencing damage resulted from shooting communicate with adjacent personal sensing terminals by using the Zigbee communication module, and thus allows one personal sensing terminal to have communication preemption right (step 640). The personal sensing terminal having the communication preemption right transmits its damage information to the central control device by using the wireless communication interface (step 650). Specifically, in step 604, one of the personal sensing terminals located within a damage zone (i.e., in association with death) from an impact point has the communication preemption right. If no personal sensing terminal exists within the damage zone, a personal sensing terminal existing in an expected damage zone has the communication preemption right. The central control device transmits damage information received from the personal sensing terminal to a personal sensing terminal in which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered (step 660).
The personal sensing terminal displays the shot location and the current location on the display unit by using the received damage information (step 670). FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a shooting result displayed on a display unit of a personal sensing terminal carried by a soldier who shots a grenade using a grenade launcher simulation apparatus according to the present invention. Referring to FIG. 7, the display unit displays a shooter location (i.e., position of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus), locations of soldiers (i.e., positions of personal sensing terminals) participating in an operation, a damage state, a path of a grenade launched by a grenade launcher, and so on. As such, through such information displayed on the display unit, the shooter can decide how accurately shooting has been made. Such information may be used as a reference after shooting.
In the grenade launcher simulation system according to the present embodiment, an impact point location resulted from shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is estimated by the controller of the personal sensing terminal which has received shooting information from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus. The estimated impact point location is transmitted to the central control device. However, according to another embodiment of the grenade launcher simulation system, shooting information of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus and current location information regarding the personal sensing terminal may be transmitted to the central control device, and the impact point location may be estimated using the shooting information and the location information received by the central control device.
In the grenade launcher simulation system according to the present embodiment, the central control device broadcasts the impact point location information to each personal sensing terminal. Each personal sensing terminal estimates an alive-or-dead state by using the received impact point location information, and transmits the resultant information to the central control device.
However, according to another embodiment of the grenade launcher simulation system, the central control device estimates an expected damage zone by using the impact point location information, compares location information on the expected damage zone with current location information of each soldier, generates information on an alive-or-dead state of each soldier and/or damage information, and transmits the generated information to each personal sensing terminal of each soldier. Upon receiving the damage information, each personal sensing terminal checks an alive-or-dead state according to the damage information, and reports the result through the state reporting unit or the like.
In addition, according to another embodiment of the grenade launcher simulation system, the central control device may transmit location information on the expected damage zone to each soldiers' terminal. Each terminal may compare its current location information with the received location information on the expected damage zone, generate information on an alive-or-dead state and/or damage information, and transmit the generated information to the central control device.
Meanwhile, the personal sensing terminal and the central control device of the grenade launcher simulation system according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention are synchronized by the GPS signal receiver. Each personal sensing terminal periodically activates the central control device for a predetermined time period and deactivates it for the rest of time period. Since data is received from the central control device for an activated time period, power consumption can be minimized.
FIG. 10 illustrates examples of time slots in personal sensing terminals according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 10, each personal sensing terminal is activated only for a predetermined time period (i.e., a1, a2, a3, . . . ) so as to receive data from an external element, and thus power consumption of the personal sensing terminal can be minimized. A data communication method of personal sensing terminals according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described in brief with reference to FIG. 10.
In FIG. 10, the reference numerals 61 to 65 indicate personal sensing terminals. The reference numeral 50 indicates a central control device. The reference numeral 65 indicates a personal sensing terminal in which a grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered. A receiver Rx of each personal sensing terminal is periodically activated for a predetermined time period (i.e., a1, a2, a3, . . . ) so as to receive data from an external element. Thus, the central control device 50 transmits data only for a time period where the receiver of each sensing terminal is activated. A transmitter Tx of each personal sensing terminal transmits location information to the central control device for a predetermined time period (i.e., b1, b2, b3, b4, and b5). The transmitted location information is received by a receiver of the central control device.
Upon receiving shooting information from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus, the personal sensing terminal 65, in which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered, estimates an impact point location and transmits a data packet c1 containing impact point location information to the central control device. After receiving the data packet (see c2), the central control device transmits a data packet c3 containing the impact point location information via the transmitter (see c4, c5, c6, and c7). The personal sensing terminal 61 ensures communication preemption right among the respective personal sensing terminals receiving the impact point location information from the central control device. The personal sensing terminal 61 transmits to the central control device a data packet dl containing damage information, and then the central control device transmits it to the personal sensing terminal 65 (see d4).

Second Embodiment

Now, an operation of a grenade launcher simulation system according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 8. In the grenade launcher simulation system according to the present embodiment, a personal sensing terminal receives shooting information from a grenade launcher simulation apparatus and transmits impact point location information to another personal sensing terminal. The personal sensing terminal, which has received the impact point location information, transmits information on an alive-or-dead state and/or damage information to a personal sensing terminal in which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered. Now, an operation of the grenade launcher simulation system according to the present embodiment will be described in detail.
When a shooter pulls a trigger, a burst signal input unit of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus generates a burst signal and transmits it to a controller. The controller transmits specific shooting information to personal sensing terminals of soldiers each of who carries the grenade launcher simulation apparatus, by using a Zigbee communication module or a wireless communication interface (step 800).
The personal sensing terminal estimates an impact point location by using the received shooting information and its current location information. The estimated impact point location information is transmitted to other personal sensing terminals by using the Zigbee communication module and the wireless communication interface (step 810).
Each personal sensing terminal periodically checks its location information by using the GPS signal receiver and the DGPS module. The checked location information is transmitted to the central control device through the wireless communication interface (step 820).
When each personal sensing terminal receives impact point information resulted from shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus, information on an alive-or-dead state and/or damage information are generated by using the received impact point location and its current location information (step 830). Next, by using the Zigbee communication module or the wireless communication interface, each personal sensing terminal transmits the information on an alive-or-dead state and/or damage information to a personal sensing terminal connected to the grenade launcher simulation apparatus (step 840). The location information, the information on an alive-or-dead state, and/or damage information are transmitted to the central control device by using the wireless communication interface (step 850).
After receiving the damage information from the personal sensing terminals by using the Zigbee communication module and the wireless communication interface, the grenade launcher simulation apparatus displays a shooting result state on the display unit by using the received information (step 860).
In the second embodiment of the present invention, when using the Zigbee communication module, the personal sensing terminal further includes a transmission amplifier and a reception amplifier. Thus, even when transmission power of the Zigbee communication module equipped into each personal sensing terminal is weak, preferably, reception sensitivity improves.
According to the present embodiment, it is possible to improve overall system efficiency while reducing a load of the central control device of the grenade launcher simulation system.

Third Embodiment

Now, a structure and operation of a grenade launcher simulation system according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The structure and components constructing the grenade launcher simulation system according to the third embodiment are the same as those of the second embodiment, and a duplicated description will be omitted.
Now, an operation of a grenade launcher simulation system having the aforementioned structure according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 9.
When the grenade launcher simulation apparatus operates, shooting information on the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is transmitted to a personal sensing terminal of a soldier (step 900). The personal sensing terminal estimates an impact point location of a grenade by using its current location information and the shooting information, and transmits the estimated impact point location information to each personal sensing terminal by using the Zigbee communication module (step 910).
Each personal sensing terminal periodically checks its location information by using the GPS signal receiver and the DGPS module. The checked location information is transmitted to the central control device through the wireless communication interface (step 920).
When each personal sensing terminal receives impact point information resulted from shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus, an alive-or-dead state and/or a damage state are examined by comparing the received impact point location with its current location information (step 930). Next, among the personal sensing terminals, a personal sensing terminal determined to be ‘dead’ ensures communication preemption right and then transmits its location information and its damage state information to the central control device by using the wireless communication interface (step 940).
The central control device transmits the damage state information and the location information on each personal sensing terminal to a personal sensing terminal in which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus used to shooting (step 950).
Meanwhile, a personal sensing terminal, which has received from the central control device information on a damage state and location of another personal sensing terminal, displays a shooting result state to the display unit by using the received information (step 960).
Now, a controller of a grenade launcher simulation apparatus according to another embodiment will be described, which is different from that of the aforementioned second and third embodiments. The controller of the personal sensing terminal, which has received shooting information from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus, transmits shooting information (i.e., orientation and elevation) of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus and current location information to each personal sensing terminal. By using the received shooting information and location information, each personal sensing terminal estimates an impact point location, compares the estimated impact point location information with the current location information, and generates information on an alive-or-dead state and/or damage information.

Fourth Embodiment

Now, a structure and operation of a grenade launcher simulation system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail. In the fourth embodiment of the present invention, communication is made using two different frequency bands. Thus, communication errors can be avoided between a grenade launcher simulation apparatus and each personal sensing terminal while reducing a communication load of a central control device.
The overall structure of the grenade launcher simulation system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is the same as that of the aforementioned first, second and third embodiments. Therefore, a duplicated description will be omitted. The grenade launcher simulation system of the fourth embodiment includes a grenade launcher simulation apparatus, a central control device, and one or more personal sensing terminals.
The central control device and the personal sensing terminal according to the present embodiment include a first wireless communication interface and a second wireless communication interface. The first and second wireless communication interfaces transmit/receive signals respectively through first and second channels by using different frequency bands.
The central control device of the grenade launcher simulation system according to the present embodiment transmits to each personal sensing terminal a DGPS signal of the DGPS beacon signal receiver by using the second channel through the second wireless communication interface. Each personal sensing terminal corrects an error of the GPS signal by using the DGPS signal received from the central control device through the second wireless communication interface.
Components other than the second wireless communication interface of the grenade launcher simulation system according to the present embodiment operate in the same manner as those of the aforementioned embodiments, and thus descriptions thereof will be omitted.
While the present invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. For example, an element for estimating impact point location information, an element for estimating an expected damage zone, and frequency bands used by respective wireless communication interfaces may be implemented in various forms in order to improve overall performance of a grenade launcher simulation system of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the invention is defined not by the detailed description of the invention but by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope will be construed as being included in the present invention.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

According to the present invention, a grenade launcher simulation system can be widely used in a multiple integrated laser battle system.

Claims

1-19. (canceled)

20. A personal sensing terminal comprising:

a memory which stores identification information of the personal sensing terminal and identification information of an grenade launcher simulation apparatus allocated to the personal sensing terminal;

a GPS signal receiver which receives GPS location information;

a communication interface which receives and transmits signals in a wire or wireless manner in accordance with a predetermined protocol;

a controller which controls whole operations,

wherein the controller comprises a shooting information transmission module, and

wherein, when shooting information and identification information of an external grenade launcher simulation apparatus are received from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus through the communication interface, the shooting information transmission module determines a current location of the personal sensing terminal from the GPS signal receiver, calculates a impact point location based on the shooting information and the current location information, and transmits information on the impact point location through the communication interface.

21. The personal sensing terminal according to claim 20,

wherein the communication interface includes a first communication interface which receives and transmits signals in accordance with a predetermined first protocol, and a second communication interface which receives and transmits signals in accordance with a predetermined second protocol, and

wherein, when shooting information and identification information of an external grenade launcher simulation apparatus are received from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus through the first communication interface, the shooting information transmission module determines a current location of the personal sensing terminal from the GPS signal receiver, calculates a impact point location based on the shooting information and the current location information, and transmits information on the impact point location through the second communication interface.

22. The personal sensing terminal according to claim 20,

wherein the controller of the personal sensing terminal further comprises a location information transmission module and a DGPS module, and

wherein the location information transmission module receives a GPS signal through a GPS signal receiver, receives error information of the GPS signal through the DGPS module, acquires accurate location information by correcting the GPS signal based on the error information, and transmits the acquired location information.

23. The personal sensing terminal according to claim 20,

wherein the controller of the personal sensing terminal further comprises a damage information transmission module, and

wherein, when the information on the impact point location according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received, the damage information transmission module compares the received information on the impact point location with the information of the personal sensing terminal to determine death or damage of a shooter of the personal sensing terminal, generates damage information, and transmits the damage information.

24. The personal sensing terminal according to claim 23, wherein, after generating the damage information, the damage information transmission module acquires a communication preemption right through communication to other neighboring personal sensing terminals and transmits the damage information.

25. The personal sensing terminal according to claim 20,

wherein the controller of the personal sensing terminal further comprises a shooting result reporting module,

wherein the personal sensing terminal further comprises a display unit, and

wherein, when damage information according to shooting of a grenade launcher simulation apparatus registered to the personal sensing terminal is received, the shooting result reporting module extracts damage location information from the damage information and displays the current location of the personal sensing terminal and the damage location on the display unit.

26. The personal sensing terminal according to claim 20, wherein the shooting information which the personal sensing terminal receives from the external grenade launcher simulation apparatus includes information on orientation and elevation of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus.

27. Central control device for simulating a grenade launcher in cooperation with a grenade launcher simulation apparatus registered to at least one or more personal sensing terminals and an arbitrary personal sensing terminal, the central control device comprising:

a communication interface which receives and transmits data; and

a controller which controls whole operations,

wherein the controller comprises a shooting information broadcasting module and a damage information transmission module,

wherein, when impact point location information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received through the communication interface, the shooting information broadcasting module transmits the impact point location information to the personal sensing terminal, and

wherein, when, the damage information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received, the damage information transmission module transmits the damage information to the personal sensing terminal to which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered.

28. The central control device according to claim 27, wherein the central control device further comprises a DGPS beacon signal receiver which receives a DGPS signal used to correct error of the GPS signal from an external DGPS base station.

29. A grenade launcher simulation system having at least one or more personal sensing terminals of soldiers, a grenade launcher simulation apparatus which is registered to one of the personal sensing terminals, and a central control device which controls whole operations,

wherein the grenade launcher simulation apparatus comprises:

a first memory which stores identification information of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus;

an electronic compass which detects an orientation and an elevation of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus;

a burst signal input unit which receives a burst signal and transmits a operation signal based on the burst signal;

a first communication interface which receives and transmits data; and

a first controller which, when the operation signal is received from the burst signal input unit, transmits information on the orientation and the elevation and the identification information to the personal sensing terminal to which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered,

wherein the personal sensing terminal comprises:

a second memory which stores identification information of the personal sensing terminal and identification information of an grenade launcher simulation apparatus which is registered to the personal sensing terminal;

a second communication interface which receives and transmits data;

a first GPS signal receiver which receives a GPS signal to detect location information; and

a second controller which, when shooting information is received from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus, calculates impact point location based on information received from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus and the location information of the personal sensing terminal and transmits information on the impact point location to another personal sensing terminal, and when impact point location information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received, generates damage information associated with the personal sensing terminal based on the current location information of the personal sensing terminal and the impact point location information and transmits the damage information, and

wherein the central control device comprises:

a third communication interface which receives and transmits data; and

a third controller which, when impact point location information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received from the personal sensing terminal, transmits the impact point location information to another personal sensing terminal, and when damage information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received from the personal sensing terminal, transmits the damage information to a personal sensing terminal to which the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is registered, thereby extracting damage information of the personal sensing terminals according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus.

30. A grenade launcher simulation system having at least one or more personal sensing terminals of soldiers, a grenade launcher simulation apparatus which is registered to one of the personal sensing terminals, and a central control device which controls whole operations,

wherein the grenade launcher simulation apparatus comprises:

a first communication interface which receives and transmits data; and

wherein the personal sensing terminal comprises:

a second communication interface which receives and transmits data;

a second controller which, when shooting information is received from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus, calculates impact point location based on information received from the grenade launcher simulation apparatus and the location information of the personal sensing terminal and transmits information on the impact point location to the central control device, and when impact point location information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus is received, generates damage information associated with the personal sensing terminal based on the current location information of the personal sensing terminal and the impact point location information and transmits the damage information, and

wherein the central control device comprises:

a third communication interface which receives and transmits data; and

31. The grenade launcher simulation system according to claim 29,

wherein the personal sensing terminal further comprises a display unit, and

wherein, when the second controller of the personal sensing terminal receives the damage information according to shooting of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus, the second controller extracts damage location based on the damage information and displays the location of the personal sensing terminal and the damage location on the display unit.

32. The grenade launcher simulation system according to claim 29, wherein the central control device further comprises a DGPS beacon signal receiver which receives a DGPS signal from an external DGPS base station.

33. The grenade launcher simulation system according to claim 29,

wherein the personal sensing terminal further comprises an additional second communication interface,

wherein the additional second communication interface communicates with a first communication interface of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus and/or a second communication interface of another personal sensing terminal,

wherein the additional second communication interface communicates with a third communication interface of the central control device, and

wherein the second communication interface and the additional second communication interface use different protocols and different frequency bands.

34. The grenade launcher simulation system according to claim 33,

wherein the second communication interface of the personal sensing terminal and the first communication interface of the grenade launcher simulation apparatus are communication modules which support Zigbee communication protocol, and

wherein the additional second communication interface of the personal sensing terminal and the third communication interface of the central control device are RF communication modules which support RF communication protocol.

35. The grenade launcher simulation system according to claim 29, wherein the first communication interface, the second communication interface, and the third communication interface are RF communication interface which support RF communication protocol.

36. The grenade launcher simulation system according to claim 29,

wherein the personal sensing terminal and the central control device are synchronized to each other with reference to a time of the GPS signal receiver,

wherein the personal sensing terminal is activated to receive data in a period of a predetermined time interval during a time interval which is allocated to the personal sensing terminal in each period, and

wherein the central control device transmits data during the time interval when the personal sensing terminal is activated, thereby minimizing power consumption of the personal sensing terminal.