Firearm laser training system and kit including a target structure having sections of varying reflectivity for visually indicating simulated projectile impact locations

Abstract

A firearm laser training system includes a laser transmitter assembly and a target structure having sections of varying reflective properties. The laser assembly is configured for attachment to a user firearm and emits a beam of visible laser light. The target structure front surface includes a retroreflective target section having increased reflective properties relative to the reflective properties of the remaining front surface sections to reflect the laser beam in a distinguishing manner, thereby providing a visual indication when the laser beam impacts the target section. An interchangeable mask maybe placed over the target section to provide targets for various firearm activities. For example, a mask may include a grid pattern defining a frame of reference for the target section, or may be opaque and include an opening to serve as an intended target site. The opening exposes a portion of the reflective target section, thereby enabling reflection of the laser beam in a distinguishing manner, typically in the form of a flash of light, to provide a visual indication when the intended target site has been struck by the laser beam. The opaque mask may further be scaled to simulate actual shooting conditions at predetermined distances, while the opening may have varying dimensions to accommodate the particular skill level of a user. In addition, the system may be available in kit form including the laser transmitter assembly, target structure and a plurality of interchangeable masks.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention pertains to firearm training systems. In particular, the present invention pertains to a firearm laser training system and kit including a laser transmitter assembly attachable to a user firearm for projecting a laser beam therefrom and a target structure having sections of varying reflective properties to visually indicate simulated projectile impact locations in response to the laser beam striking the target structure. In addition, the target structure may be utilized with interchangeable masks that provide targets for various firearm activities and include configurations to accommodate the particular skill level of the user.

[0004] 2. Discussion of the Related Art

[0005] Firearms are utilized for a variety of purposes, such as hunting, sporting competition, law enforcement and military operations. The inherent danger associated with firearms necessitates training and practice in order to minimize the risk of injury. However, special facilities are required to facilitate practice of handling and shooting the firearm. These special facilities basically confine projectiles propelled from the firearm within a prescribed space, thereby preventing harm to the surrounding area. Accordingly, firearm trainees are required to travel to the special facilities in order to participate in a training session, while the training sessions themselves may become quite expensive since each session requires new ammunition for practicing handling and shooting of the firearm.

[0006] The related art has attempted to overcome the above-mentioned problems by utilizing laser or other light energy with firearms to simulate firearm operation and indicate simulated projectile impact locations on intended targets. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,367,516 (Jacob) discloses a marksmanship training device which permits target practice without requiring live ammunition. The device includes a radiant energy emitting (e.g., strobe light) replacement unit for a cartridge cylinder of a revolver and an elongated lens tube adapted to be received in the revolver barrel. The radiant energy output from the cylinder replacement unit is transmittable through the lens tube as a narrow beam, and is transmitted upon squeezing the revolver trigger to direct a beam of visible light or other radiant energy onto a target.

[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 5,119,576 (Erning) discloses a fireanr with a separable radiation emitting attachment. The attachment includes a laser that is operated to emit a beam of radiation against a selected target in response to depression of the firearm trigger. The interval of laser beam emission is in the range of one or more minute fractions of a second to enable a user to visualize the point of impact of the radiation beam against the target in spite of movement of the barrel muzzle after trigger actuation.

[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 5,194,007 (Marshall et al) discloses a semiconductor laser weapon trainer and target designator for live fire. The device includes a laser diode that provides visible light and is used in conjunction with the boresight of a gun to indicate the location on a target where a bullet will impact when the weapon is fired. The visible light further serves to designate the target to others. In addition, the weapon and device may be utilized without ammunition to perfect user aiming skills. An on/off switch is removably attached to the weapon in a convenient location to be operated by a user.

[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,605,461 (Seeton) discloses a laser device for simulating firearms. The device includes a piezoelectric crystal for detecting high amplitude acoustic pulses generated in response to actuation of a firearm firing mechanism. An amplitude detecting circuit receives a voltage pulse from the piezoelectric crystal and causes a laser diode to be energized in response to the pulse exceeding a threshold. The laser diode is activated for an amount of time sufficient to enable a laser spot to be visible to a user and to permit a streak to be developed when the firearm is pulled slightly during trigger activation.

[0010] The related art has further utilized detection devices with firearm simulation systems for determining and indicating the occurrence of striking an intended target. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,792,535 (Marshall et al) discloses a marksmanship training system including a laser beam transmitter and receiver mounted on a rifle barrel and a target having retroreflective means of different sizes. The retroflactive means redirect the laser beam from the target to the receiver, thereby providing immediate information relating to a hit or miss of the target when the rifle trigger is depressed.

[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 4,640,514 (Myllyla et al) discloses a target practice apparatus having a transmitter/receiver attachable to a conventional firearm for emitting an optical beam toward an optical target offset from an intended target. The optical target is distinguished from the intended target and surroundings due to its different optic radiation reflecting properties. The receiver determines a hit or miss of the intended target based on a return beam that indicates when the optical beam impacts the optical target.

[0012] The systems discussed above suffer from several disadvantages. In particular, the abovediscussed systems typically project a light or laser beam onto a target to identify a simulated projectile impact location, but do not include targets that reflect the beam in a manner that provides enhanced or distinguishing visual indications when an intended target site has been hit. Therefore, these systems either rely on additional equipment, such as receivers or detectors, to determine the presence of a hit, or require a user to locate the beam or simulated projectile impact location on a target and deduce whether or not an intended target site has been struck. The former requires additional system components, thereby increasing system complexity and cost, while the latter approach may be troublesome, especially where the beam is not readily visible on the target surface or when the beam is emitted during relatively short transmission intervals. Further, the target structures of the above-described systems are generally generic and provide a limited amount of training applications, thereby restricting firearm training potential.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a relatively inexpensive and low level market entry system for firearm training.

[0014] It is another object of the present invention is to employ a target structure having sections of varying reflective properties within a firearm laser training system to provide distinguishing visual indications of simulated projectile impact locations on the target structure.

[0015] Yet another object of the present invention is to enhance realism within a firearm laser training system by utilizing a target structure having interchangeable masks that simulate targets and conditions encountered during various firearm activities.

[0016] Still another object of the present invention is to facilitate training of various aspects of firearm accuracy within a firearm laser training system by utilizing a target structure having interchangeable masks that provide target configurations for particular firearm accuracy drills.

[0017] A further object of the present invention is to accommodate particular skill levels of users within a firearm laser training system by employing a target structure having interchangeable masks that provide target sites of various dimensions.

[0018] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a firearm laser training system in kit form to facilitate training with user firearms.

[0019] The aforesaid objects are achieved individually and in combination, and it is not intended that the present invention be construed as requiring two or more of the objects to be combined unless expressly required by the claims attached hereto.

[0020] According to the present invention, a firearm laser training system includes a laser transmitter assembly and a target structure having sections of varying reflective properties. The laser assembly is configured for attachment to a barrel of a user firearm and emits a beam of visible laser light toward the target structure in response to actuation of the firearm trigger. The laser beam is generally in the form of a pulse having a duration sufficient for the user to visibly detect a beam impact location. The target structure front surface includes a retroreflective target section having increased reflective properties relative to the reflective properties of the remaining front surface sections to reflect the laser beam in a distinguishing manner, thereby providing a visual indication when the laser beam impacts the target section.

[0021] An interchangeable mask may be placed over the target section to provide targets for various firearm activities. For example, a mask may be transparent and include a grid pattern defining a frame of reference for the target section to visually indicate an offset between a beam or simulated projectile impact location and an intended target site. Alternatively, a mask may be opaque and include an opening to serve as an intended target site. The opening exposes a portion of the retroreflective target section, thereby enabling reflection of the laser beam in a distinguishing manner, typically in the form of a flash of light, to provide a visual indication when the intended target site has been struck by the laser beam. An opaque mask may further include an illustration of an animal with the opening defined in the mask within the confines of the illustrated animal to serve as an intended target site for facilitating hunting drills, or an opaque mask may include the opening configured in various manners (e.g., mask annular configurations, openings defined in various mask quadrants, vertical or horizontal slots, etc.) to provide intended target sites for accuracy drills. The opaque mask may further be scaled to simulate actual shooting conditions at predetermined distances, while the opening may have varying dimensions to accommodate the particular skill level of a user.

[0022] In addition, the firearm laser training system may be available in kit form including the laser transmitter assembly, target structure and a plurality of interchangeable masks. Further, the masks may be available independently of the kit, and provide targets for various firearm activities.

[0023] The above and still further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of specific embodiments thereof, particularly when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals in the various figures are utilized to designate like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] FIG. 1 is a view in perspective of a firearm laser training system directing a laser beam from a firearm onto a target structure according to the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 2 is an exploded view in perspective and partial section of a laser transmitter assembly of the system of FIG. 1 fastened to a firearm barrel.

[0026] FIG. 3 is an exploded view in perspective of a target structure of the system of FIG. 1 employing a mask having a grid pattern according to the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the target structure of FIG. 3.

[0028] FIG. 5 is a front view in elevation of the target structure of FIG. 3.

[0029] FIG. 6 is a front view in elevation of the target structure of FIG. 3 employing an alternative mask illustrating an intended target location on an animal according to the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 7 is a top view in plan of a firearm laser training system kit according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0031] A firearm laser training system according to the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 1. Specifically, the firearm laser training system includes a laser transmitter assembly 2 and a target structure 10 having sections of varying reflective properties as described below. The laser assembly is attached to an unloaded user firearm 6 to adapt the firearm for compatibility with the training system. By way of example only, firearm 6 is implemented by a conventional hand-gun and includes a trigger 7, a barrel 8, a hammer 9 and a grip 15. However, the firearm may be implemented by any conventional firearms (e.g., hand-gun, rifle, shotgun, etc). Laser assembly 2 includes a laser transmitter rod 3 and a laser transmitter module 4 that emits a beam 11 of visible laser light in response to actuation of trigger 7. Rod 3 is connected to module 4 and is configured for insertion within barrel 8 to fasten the laser assembly to the barrel as described below. A user aims unloaded firearm 6 at target structure 10 and actuates trigger 7 to project laser beam 11 from laser module 4 toward the target structure. The target structure front surface includes a retroreflective target section 16 having increased reflective properties relative to the reflective properties of the remaining sections of the front surface to provide a distinguishing visual indication of the laser beam or simulated projectile impact location as described below. An interchangeable mask 22 may be placed over the target section to provide targets for various firearm activities as described below. It is to be understood that the terms “top”, “bottom”, “side”, “front”, “rear”, “back”, “lower”, “upper”, “height”, “width”, “thickness”, “vertical”, “horizontal” and the like are used herein merely to describe points of reference and do not limit the present invention to any specific orientation or configuration.

[0032] An exemplary laser transmitter assembly employed by the training system is illustrated in FIG. 2. Specifically, laser assembly 2 includes laser transmitter rod 3 and laser transmitter module 4. Rod 3 includes a generally cylindrical barrel member 17 and a stop 19 disposed at the barrel member distal end. The barrel member is elongated with a tapered proximal end and has transverse cross-sectional dimensions that are slightly less than the cross-sectional dimensions of barrel 8 to enable the barrel member to be inserted within the barrel. However, the barrel member may be of any shape or size to accommodate firearms of various calibers. Adjustable rings 72, 74 are disposed about the barrel member toward its proximal and distal ends, respectively. The dimensions of each ring are adjustable to enable barrel member 17 to snugly fit within and frictionally engage barrel 8 in a secure manner. Stop 19 is in the form of a substantially circular disk having a diameter slightly greater than the cross-sectional dimensions of barrel 8 to permit insertion of rod sections proximal of the stop into the barrel. The stop may alternatively be of any shape or size capable of limiting insertion of the rod into the barrel. Barrel member 17 is connected to the approximate center of stop 19, while a post 21 is attached to and extends distally for a slight distance from an approximate center of a stop distal surface. Post 21 is substantially cylindrical and has transverse cross-sectional dimensions similar to those of barrel member 17, but may be of any shape or size. The post includes external threads 23 for facilitating engagement with laser module 4 as described below.

[0033] Laser module 4 includes a housing 25 having an internally threaded opening 60 defined in an upper portion of a housing rear wall for receiving post 21 and attaching the laser module to rod 3. The housing and opening may be of any shape or size, while the opening may be defined in the housing at any suitable locations. The laser module components are disposed within the housing and include a power source 27, typically in the form of batteries, a mechanical wave sensor 29 and an optics package 31having a laser (not shown) and a lens 33. These components may be arranged within the housing in any suitable fashion. The optics package emits laser beam 11 through lens 33 toward target structure 10 or other intended target in response to detection of trigger actuation by mechanical wave sensor 29. Specifically, when trigger 7 is actuated, hammer 9 impacts the firearm and generates a mechanical wave which travels distally along barrel 8 toward rod 3. As used herein, the term “mechanical wave” or “shock wave” refers to an impulse traveling through the firearm barrel. Mechanical wave sensor 29 within the laser module senses the mechanical wave from the hammer impact and generates a trigger signal. The mechanical wave sensor may include a piezoelectric element, an accelerometer or a solid state sensor, such as a strain gauge. Optics package 31 within the laser module generates and projects laser beam 11 from firearm 6 in response to the trigger signal. The optics package laser is generally enabled for a predetermined time interval, preferably in the approximate range of 0.25-2.0 seconds, sufficient for a user to visibly detect the impact location on target structure 10. Alternatively, the laser module may include an acoustic sensor to sense actuation of the trigger and enable the optics package. The laser module is similar in function to the laser device disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 09/486,382, entitled “Network-Linked Laser Target Firearm Training System” and filed Feb.25, 2000, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The laser assembly may be constructed of any suitable materials and maybe fastened to firearm 6 at any suitable locations by any conventional or other fastening techniques.

[0034] Referring to FIGS. 3-4, target structure 10 includes a panel 12 and a support 30 for maintaining the panel in a generally upright position during training. Panel 12 is substantially square having front and rear surfaces 14, 32. Target section 16 is attached to the approximate center of the panel front surface via adhesives or any other conventional fastening techniques. The panel and support are typically constructed of cardboard, but may be constructed of any suitable materials. The target section is preferably substantially circular and typically light colored (e.g., white) having a shiny or glossy surface. Target section 16 is constructed of a retroflective material to provide increased reflective properties relative to the reflective properties of the remaining portions of the panel front surface. Retroreflective materials redirect light incident on the material back toward the originating light source and are commonly used in various applications (e.g., road signs, barricades, truck trailer sides, road worker safety vest, etc.). Two common types of retroreflective materials are microsphere based sheeting and cube corner sheeting. Generally, microsphere based sheeting has a lower retroreflective efficiency than cube corner sheeting, but exhibits a relatively orientationally uniform total light return when rotated about an axis normal to the sheeting surface. Thus, microsphere based sheeting has a relatively low sensitivity to the orientation at which the sheeting is placed on the surface. Examples of microsphere based sheeting are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,190,178 (McKenzie), 4,025,159 (McGrath) and 5,066,098 (Kult), the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Target section 16 may be constructed of microsphere based sheeting, cube corner sheeting or any other reflective or retroreflective materials.

[0035] The target section reflects a substantial portion of light with minimal absorption, while the remaining front surface sections have a generally dark color and tend to absorb greater quantities of light relative to the target section. The reflective properties of the target section and remaining front panel sections are sufficiently different to provide a visually distinguishing indication of the particular front surface section impacted by laser beam 11 (FIG. 1). Upper and lower slits 18, 20 are defined in the panel front surface toward the approximate center of the upper and lower panel edges, respectively. The slits generally extend horizontally and facilitate placement of various target masks over the target section as described below. The panel, target section and slits may alternatively be of any shape or size, while the target section and slits may be disposed on the panel at any suitable locations.

[0036] Support 30 is attached to panel rear surface 32 to maintain panel 12 in a generally upright position. Support 30 includes a pivotable support member 34 and a base 36. Base 36 is substantially rectangular and is attached to rear surface 32 along a substantially central vertical axis. Base 36 has a height dimension slightly less than the height of panel 12, and a width dimension substantially less than the panel width. Support member 34 adjoins a side edge of base 36 and is generally in the form of a right triangle having a truncated upper end that is substantially flush with the base upper edge. Support member 34 is pivotable (e.g., as indicated by the arrows in FIG. 4) about a fold 35 formed at the junction where the base and support member side edges meet. During storage, support member 34 is pivoted to lay flat against rear surface 32, thereby decreasing target structure dimensions and bulkiness for enhanced storage capability. In order to position target structure 10 in a generally upright position, support member 34 is pivoted to be substantially perpendicular to base 36, thereby enabling panel 12 to tilt at a slight rearward angle and lean against the support for balance. The support member may be pivoted to any desired positions for storage or support of the target structure during training. The support, support member and base may be of any shape or size and may be disposed on the panel at any suitable locations.

[0037] A series of interchangeable target masks may be utilized with the target structure to provide targets for various firearm activities as illustrated, by way of example only, in FIGS. 3 and 5. Specifically, mask 22 may be disposed on the panel front surface between slits 18, 20 and coindident target section 16. The mask is generally circular and has dimensions slightly greater than the dimensions of the target section to cover that section and a portion of the surrounding panel front surface. However, the mask may be of any shape or size and may be disposed on the target structure at any suitable locations. Mask 22 is preferably constructed of a substantially transparent material and includes generally rectangular tabs 24, 26 attached to and extending from the mask periphery. The tabs are angularly displaced from each other by approximately one-hundred eighty degrees and are aligned for insertion within respective slits 18, 20 for attachment of the mask to the panel front surface. Alternatively, the tabs may be of any shape or size and may be disposed on the mask at any suitable locations for insertion within the slits.

[0038] In order to provide a user with a target for training, mask 22 includes a grid pattern 28 having a series of intersecting horizontal and vertical lines 64, 66 arranged in orthogonal relation. The grid pattern further includes peripheral line 76 and horizontal and vertical diametric lines 68, 70. These lines are thicker and darker in appearance than the remaining grid pattern lines 64, 66. Peripheral line 76 extends about the mask periphery, while diametric lines 68, 70 are arranged in orthogonal relation and intersect at the mask center to form a visually noticeable cross-hair (e.g., ‘+’ configuration) within the grid pattern. A substantially circular darkened area 62 is disposed at the center of the cross-hair to serve as an intended target site. However, area 62 may be of any size or shape, may be disposed at any location on the mask and may be shaded in any fashion (e.g., unshaded, cross-hatch, etc.).

[0039] Mask 22 is placed on target structure 10 as described above, while the target structure is positioned at a suitable location. Firearm 6 is aimed and operated by a user to project laser beam 11 (FIG. 1) at target structure 10 toward darkened area 62 serving as an intended target site. In response to the beam impacting the panel front surface at locations outside the confines of mask 22, the impacted darkened panel front surface sections substantially absorb the beam, thereby providing a reflected beam of relatively low intensity (e.g., a relatively dim spot of light appearing on the darkened impacted front surface sections) to visually indicate a miss and identify the beam or simulated projectile impact location. When the beam impacts the sections of mask 22 coincident the darkened front panel sections, the beam traverses the transparent mask material (e.g., in the spaces defined between the various grid lines) and is substantially absorbed by those darkened sections to indicate a miss and identify the beam impact location as described above. However, if the beam impacts mask 22 coincident target section 16 and outside the confines of darkened area 62, the beam traverses the transparent mask material (e.g., in the spaces defined between the various grid lines) and is reflected by the target section with minimal absorption, thereby providing a reflected beam of relatively high intensity and visually indicating the beam or simulated projectile impact location in a distinguishing manner, typically in the form of a flash of light (FIG. 1). A direct hit of darkened area 62 results in a reflected beam of relatively low intensity (e.g., in the form of a relatively dim spot of light appearing on the darkened area) since the darkened area substantially absorbs the beam and prevents contact with the underlying target section. Thus, the panel front sections reflect laser beam 11 at different intensities corresponding to the reflective properties of the panel sections and/or mask sections impacted by the beam to visually indicate the position of the beam or simulated projectile impact location relative to the intended target site. The mask grid pattern further serves as a frame of reference with respect to the intended target site and enables the user to determine distance and direction deviations between a beam or simulated projectile impact location on the mask and an intended target site, thereby providing information to the user for adjustment of the firearm position.

[0040] Alternatively, the target mask may include a target typically encountered during hunting as illustrated, by way of example only, in FIG. 6. Specifically, a mask 38 is similar to mask 22 described above, but includes an illustration of an animal identifying an intended target site. The mask may be placed on target structure 10 between slits 18, 20 and coincident target section 16 as described above. Mask 38 is generally circular and has dimensions similar to the dimensions of mask 22 (FIG. 5) to cover target section 16 and a portion of the surrounding panel front surface. However, mask 38 may be of any shape or size and may be disposed on the target structure at any suitable locations. The mask is preferably constructed of cardboard and is generally opaque having a glossy or shiny surface, but may be constructed of any suitable materials. Generally rectangular tabs 24, 26 are attached to and extend from the mask periphery for insertion within respective slits 18, 20 to fasten the mask to the panel front surface as described above. A generally rectangular release tab 39 is further disposed above tab 26 for facilitating removal of the mask from the target structure. Tabs 24, 26, 39 may alternatively be of any shape or size, and may be disposed at any locations on the mask.

[0041] In order to provide a user with a target commonly encountered during hunting, mask 38 includes an illustration 40 of an animal, such as a fox, and an opening 42 defined therein exposing target section 16 and indicating an intended target site. The opening is defined within the confines of the illustration at a particular location preferably selected to represent a kill shot for the animal, thereby training the user to impact the target at a preferred location. This type of shot is considered merciful since it causes death in a rapid manner and minimizes animal pain and suffering. However, opening 42 may be of any shape or size and may be defined on the mask at any suitable locations. Illustration 40 and/or opening 42 are scaled such that the mask provides actual hunting conditions at a prescribed distance when target structure 10 is utilized at a corresponding scaled distance. By way of example only, mask 38 may simulate: a fox at a distance of twenty meters when the target structure is utilized at a scaled distance of three meters; a fox at a distance of forty meters when the target is utilized at a scaled distance of six meters; and a fox at a distance of fifty-three meters when the target is utilized at a scaled distance of eight meters.

[0042] Alternatively, mask 38 may include openings defined therein of various dimensions to accommodate the particular skill level of the user. Specifically, mask 38 may include an opening 44 or 46 in place of opening 42. Opening 46 has dimensions greater than those of opening 44, while opening 44 has dimensions greater than those of opening 42. Opening 46 provides a target site on mask 38 having the greatest area relative to openings 42, 44, thereby requiring a lower level of user skill to operate the firearm in a manner to direct laser beam 11 through that opening. Conversely, since opening 42 provides a target site having the smallest area on mask 38 relative to openings 44, 46, opening 42 requires a greater level of user skill to operate firearm 6 in a manner to project laser beam 11 through that opening. Opening 44 may be utilized to require a level of user skill between those of openings 42, 46 to operate firearm 6 in a manner to project laser beam 11 through that opening. Masks 38 having different openings 42, 44, 46 defined therein may be interchanged on the target structure to provide a level of difficulty appropriate for a user skill level. Mask 38 may alternatively include any quantity of openings of any shape or size disposed at any suitable locations on the mask.

[0043] Mask 38 is placed on target structure 10 with an opening 42,44 or 46 disposed coincident target section 16. Firearm 6 is aimed and operated by a user to project laser beam 11 (FIG. 1) at target structure 10 toward opening 42,44 or 46 serving as an intended target site. In response to the beam impacting the panel front surface outside the confines of mask 38, the darkened panel front, surface sections substantially absorb the beam, thereby providing a reflected beam of relatively low intensity to visually indicate a miss and identify the beam or simulated projectile impact location as described above. When the beam impacts mask 38 outside the confines of opening 42, 44 or 46, the shiny mask surface reflects the beam with a greater intensity than the darkened sections of the panel front surface (e.g., in the form of a moderately bright spot of light appearing on the mask) to visually indicate an impact location on the mask. However, if the beam is directed toward mask 38 and through opening 42, 44 or 46, the beam is reflected by the exposed portion oftarget section 16 with minimal absorption, therebyproviding areflected beam of relatively high intensity and visually indicating a hit of the intended target site in a distinguishing manner, typically in the form of a flash of light. In other words, the panel front surface sections and mask reflect laser beam 11 at different intensities corresponding to the reflective properties of the panel front surface sections and/or mask sections impacted by the beam to indicate the position of the beam or simulated projectile impact location relative to the intended target site.

[0044] Masks having other illustrations and configurations may be disposed on target structure 10 to provide targets for various firearm activities. The target structure and masks may be utilized with various types of firearms, especially those typically utilized for the simulated target being employed. By way of example only, a hunting or sporting mask may be substantially similar to mask 38 described above and include: an illustration of a bird, such as a rock dove or a ring necked pheasant, and be configured for use with a shotgun; an illustration of an animal, such as a red fox (FIG. 6) or white tail jack rabbit, and be configured for use with a shotgun or hunting rifle; an illustration of other animals, such as a mouflon, moose or white tailed deer, and be configured for use with a hunting rifle; or an illustration of clay pigeons or other targets and be configured for use with a shotgun. The exemplary masks described above may be scaled and include an opening representing a preferred shot to serve as an intended target site. The opening may be of any shape or size to accommodate the particular skill level of a user as described above, and may be defined in the mask at any suitable locations.

[0045] In addition, target structure 10 may utilize masks configured to provide targets for accuracy drills. By way of example only, an accuracy drill mask may be similar to mask 38 described above and include an annular configuration having a central opening defined therein serving as an intended target site. The central opening may be of any shape or size to accommodate the particular skill level of a user as described above. This type of drill mask is directed primarily toward combat shooters and focuses on improving groupings. The annular mask is scaled to simulate shooting from greater distances, thereby enabling a small room to simulate a large shooting range. Drill masks directed primarily toward general shooters include a substantially rectangular vertical or horizontal slot of varying transverse dimension generally centrally defined within the drill masks to serve as the intended target site. The vertical slot drill mask is utilized to correct horizontal deviation (e.g., providing information to a user to enable elimination of shots on either side of the vertical slot), while the horizontal slot drill mask is utilized to correct vertical deviation (e.g., providing information to a user to enable elimination of shots above or below the horizontal slot). Drill masks for general shooters may further include off-center grouping masks having a cross-hair imprinted thereon with an opening defined in a particular cross-hair quadrant. This type of mask is utilized when the point of aim is not the center of a target. The off-center masks provide additional challenges for an advanced user, and may be rotated to display the opening in different cross-hair quadrants. The off-center mask opening may be of any shape or size to accommodate the particular skill level of a user as described above. Moreover, accuracy drill masks directed primarily toward sport shooters may include precise aiming masks having an annular configuration with a central opening of relatively small dimensions. These precise aiming masks train advanced shooters to concentrate shots within a small point of aim. The central opening may be of any shape or size to accommodate the particular skill level of a user as described above. The exemplary hunting and drill masks are utilized on target structure 10 in substantially the same manner described above.

[0046] The firearm laser training system may be available in the form of a kit as illustrated in FIG. 7. Specifically, kit 50 includes laser transmitter assembly 2, target structure 10, mask 22 and a series of masks 38 each as described above. Each mask 38 includes a different sized opening to accommodate the particular skill level of a user. Masks 22, 38 are interchangeable and may be placed on target structure 10 as described above. The kit may include any quantity of each component or any quantity of total components, and may include any of the masks described above. Further, the kit may include any combination of components, while the masks may be separately available individually or in the form of mask kits directed toward particular firearm activities or user skill levels.

[0047] Operation of the firearm laser training system and kit is described with reference to FIGS. 1-7. Initially, laser transmitter rod 3 is connected to laser module 4 and inserted into barrel 8 of firearm 6 as described above. The laser module is activated in response to depression of firearm trigger 7 and generates a laser pulse having a duration sufficient to enable a user to visually determine an impact location on target structure 10. The target structure is placed in a suitable location and at an appropriate distance from the user with support member 34 pivoted to maintain panel 12 in a generally upright position as described above. A mask 22 or 38 may be selected and placed on the panel front surface to provide an intended target site for the user as described above. Alternatively, the target structure may be utilized without a mask with target section 16 generally serving as the intended target site. The firearm is operated to direct laser beam 11 from the firearm to an intended target site on the panel front surface. The target structure reflects the beam at varying intensities corresponding to the reflective properties of the particular panel front surface sections and/or mask sections impacted by the beam to indicate a position of the beam or simulated projectile impact location relative to the intended target site as described above.

[0048] When mask 22 is selected, grid pattern 28 further provides a frame of reference for an intended target site (e.g., darkened area 62) and enables a user to determine deviations between a beam or simulated projectile impact location on the mask and the intended target site, thereby providing information to the user to adjust the firearm position as described above. If mask 38 is selected, mask opening 42, 44 or 46 serves as the intended target site, while the exposed portion of target section 16 within that opening reflects the beam in a distinguishing manner to visually indicate a hit when the laser beam impacts that site as described above. Masks 22, 38 may be interchanged with each other or with any mask described above for training in various types of firearm activities.

[0049] It will be appreciated that the embodiments described above and illustrated in the drawings represent only a few of the many ways of implementing a firearm laser training system and kit including a target structure having sections of varying reflectivity for visually indicating simulated projectile impact locations.

[0050] The firearm laser training system maybe utilized with any type of firearm (e.g., hand-gun, rifle, shotgun, machine gun, etc.), while the laser module may be fastened to the firearm at any suitable locations via any conventional or other fastening techniques (e.g., frictional engagement with the barrel, brackets attaching the device to the firearm, etc.). Further, the system may include a dummy firearm projecting a laser beam, or replaceable firearm components (e.g., a barrel) having a laser device disposed therein for firearm training. The laser device may be utilized for firearm training on objects other than the target structure. The replaceable components (e.g., barrel) may further enable the laser module to be operative with a firearm utilizing blank cartridges.

[0051] The laser assembly may include the laser module and rod or any other fastening device. The laser module may emit any type of laser beam within suitable safety tolerances. The laser module housing may be of any shape or size, and may be constructed of any suitable materials. The opening may be defined in the module housing at any suitable locations to receive the rod. Alternatively, the housing and rod may include any conventional or other fastening devices (e.g., integrally formed, threaded attachment, hook and fastener, frictional engagement with the opening, etc.) to attach the module to the rod. The optics package may include any suitable lens for projecting the beam. The laser beam may be enabled for any desired duration sufficient to enable a user to visually identify an impact location on a target. The laser module may be fastened to a firearm or other similar structure (e.g., a dummy, toy or simulated firearm) at any suitable locations (e.g., external or internal of a barrel) and be actuated by a trigger or any other device (e.g., power switch, firing pin, relay, etc.). Moreover, the laser module maybe configured in the form of ammunition for insertion into a firearm firing or similar chamber and project a laser beam in response to trigger actuation. Alternatively, the laser module may be configured for direct insertion into the barrel without the need for the rod. The laser module may include any type of sensor or detector (e.g., acoustic sensor, piezoelectric element, accelerometer, solid state sensors, strain gauge, etc.) to detect mechanical or acoustical waves or other conditions signifying trigger actuation. The laser module components may be arranged within the housing in any fashion, while the module power source may be implemented by any type of batteries. Alternatively, the module may include an adapter for receiving power from a common wall outlet jack or other power source.

[0052] The laser transmitter rod may be of any shape or size, and may be constructed of any suitable materials. The rod may include dimensions to accommodate any firearm caliber. The rings maybe of any shape, size or quantity and maybe constructed of any suitable materials. The rings may be disposed at any locations along the rod and may be implemented by any devices having adjustable dimensions. The stop may be of any shape or size, may be disposed at any suitable locations along the rod and may be constructed of any suitable materials. The post may be of any shape or size, may be disposed at any suitable locations on the rod, and may be constructed of any suitable materials. The post or rod may include any conventional or other fastening devices to attach the laser module to the rod.

[0053] The target structure may be of any shape or size and may be constructed of any suitable materials. The target structure may utilize any type of supporting structure to support the panel in a generally upright position. Alternatively, the target structure may be utilized without the support structure and may be suspended from an object (e.g., a door, etc.) or placed against a support (e.g., a wall, etc.) during training. The panel and support may be of any shape or size and may be constructed of any suitable materials. The panel and support may be separate or be integrally formed, while the support may be disposed on the target structure at any suitable locations. The target section may be of any shape or size, may be constructed of any retroreflective or reflective material of any suitable color and may be disposed at any suitable location on the target structure. Further, the target structure may include any quantity of target sections. The target section may be attached to the target structure via any conventional or other fastening techniques (e.g., adhesives). The remaining sections of the panel front surface may be of any color and maybe constructed of any suitable materials having suitably different reflective properties than the target section. Moreover, the target section may have lesser reflective properties than the remaining front surface sections and operate as described above to give a visual indication of impact locations. The slits may be of any shape, size or quantity, and may be disposed at any suitable locations on the target structure. The target structure may alternatively include any conventional or other fastening devices to attach a mask to the target structure.

[0054] The masks may be of any shape or size, may be disposed on the target structure at any suitable locations and may be constructed of any suitable materials (e.g., may be transparent, translucent, opaque or any combination or degrees thereof). The tabs may be of any shape, size or quantity, and may be disposed at any locations on the masks. The masks may include any conventional or other fastening devices for attachment to the target structure. The masks may include any illustration and/or configuration having openings or slots of any shape, size or quantity defined at any suitable locations for training in any types of firearm activities. The masks may be scaled in any fashion to simulate any desired distances. The target structure may be positioned at any suitable locations or distances in any desired orientation, and maybe utilized with or without a mask.

[0055] The kit may include any quantity of each component, any combination of components, or any quantity of total components. The kit may include any type of laser device described above, or any dummy firearm or firearm component having a laser device. Further, the kit may include any of the above described masks in any quantity, while the masks and laser device may be suited for a particular type of firearm. The kit components may be available individually, while the masks may further be available individually or in kits directed toward a particular firearm activity or user skill level. In addition, the firearm training system and kit may include devices emitting any type of visible light for use with the target structure or other target.

[0056] From the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that the invention makes available a novel firearm laser training system and kit including a target structure having sections of varying reflectivity for visually indicating simulated projectile impact locations wherein a system laser assembly is attached to a user firearm and directs a beam of visible laser light toward a system target structure having sections of varying reflective properties to visually indicate the beam or simulated projectile impact locations.

[0057] Having described preferred embodiments of a new and improved firearm laser training system and kit including a target structure having sections of varying reflectivity for visually indicating simulated projectile impact locations, it is believed that other modifications, variations and changes will be suggested to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings set forth herein. It is therefore to be understood that all such variations, modifications and changes are believed to fall within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. In a firearm training system including a laser device attachable to an actual or simulated firearm for projecting a beam of visible laser light toward an intended target site to simulate a projectile in response to operation of said firearm, a target comprising: a target impact surface including said intended target site and a plurality of sections with at least two of said sections having different reflective properties to produce respective reflected beams having visually distinguishable intensities in response to said laser beam impacting said target surface, wherein said visually distinguishable intensity of a reflected beam identifies a position of said impacted surface section and a simulated projectile impact location on said target surface relative to said intended target site.

2. The target of claim 1 wherein said plurality of target surface sections includes a target section of retroreflective material having said intended target site and greater reflective properties than the remaining sections of said target surface.

3. The target of claim 2 further including: an interchangeable target mask for covering said target section, wherein said mask is configured to designate and arrange said intended target site in a manner to facilitate firearm training for a particular firearm activity.

4. The target of claim 3 wherein said target mask is transparent and includes a grid pattern providing a frame of reference for said intended target site to indicate an offset between said simulated projectile impact location and said intended target site.

5. The target of claim 3 wherein said target mask includes: an illustration of an object; and an opening defined in said mask within the confines of said illustration to serve as said intended target site and to expose said target section to facilitate reflection of said laser beam by said target section at said visually distinguishable intensity to indicate impact of said intended target site.

6. The target of claim 3 wherein said target mask is scaled to simulate conditions at predetermined distances.

7. The target of claim 3 wherein said target mask includes an opening defined therein to serve as said intended target site and to expose said target section to facilitate reflection of said laser beam by said target section at said visually distinguishable intensity to indicate impact of said intended target site.

8. The target of claim 7 further including a plurality of said interchangeable target masks, wherein each of said masks includes said opening having a different dimension to accommodate a particular skill level of a user.

9. In a firearm training system including a laser device attachable to an actual or simulated firearm for projecting a beam of visible laser light toward an intended target site to simulate a projectile in response to operation of said firearm and a target structure including a target section having said intended target site and greater reflective properties than the remaining sections of said target structure, wherein said target structure produces respective reflected beams having visually distinguishable intensities in response to said laser beam impacting said target structure to identify a position of an impacted target section and a simulated projectile impact location on said target structure relative to said intended target site, a simulated target comprising: an interchangeable target mask for covering said target section, wherein said mask includes indicia to designate said intended target site and is configured in a manner to facilitate firearm training for a particular firearm activity.

10. The target of claim 9 wherein said target mask is transparent and said indicia include a grid pattern providing said intended target site and a frame of reference for said intended target site to indicate an offset between said simulated projectile impact location and said intended target site.

11. The target of claim 9 wherein said indicia include: an illustration of an object; and an opening defined in said mask within the confines of said illustration to serve as said intended target site and to expose said target section to facilitate reflection of said laser beam by said target section at a visually distinguishable intensity to indicate impact of said intended target site.

12. The target of claim 9 wherein said target mask is scaled to simulate conditions at predetermined distances.

13. The target of claim 9 wherein said indicia include an opening defined in said mask to serve as said intended target site and to expose said target section to facilitate reflection of said laser beam by said target section at a visually distinguishable intensity to indicate impact of said intended target site.

14. The target of claim 13 further including a plurality of said interchangeable target masks, wherein each of said masks includes said opening having a different dimension to accommodate a particular skill level of a user.

15. A firearm training system kit comprising: a laser device attachable to an actual or simulated firearm for projecting abeam of visible laser light toward an intended target site to simulate a projectile in response to operation of said firearm; and a target including a target impact surface having said intended target site and a plurality of sections with at least two of said sections having different reflective properties to produce respective reflected beams having visually distinguishable intensities in response to said laser beam impacting said target surface, wherein said visually distinguishable intensity of a reflected beam identifies a position of said impacted surface section and a simulated projectile impact location on said target surface relative to said intended target site.

16. The kit of claim 15 wherein said plurality of target surface sections includes a target section of retroreflective material having said intended target site and greater reflective properties than the remaining sections of said target surface.

17. The kit of claim 16 further including: at least one interchangeable target mask for covering said target section, wherein each mask is configured to designate and arrange said intended target site in a manner to facilitate firearm training for a particular firearm activity.

18. The kit of claim 17 wherein at least one target mask is transparent and includes a grid pattern providing a frame of reference for said intended target site to indicate an offset between said simulated projectile impact location and said intended target site.

19. The kit of claim 17 wherein at least one target mask includes: an illustration of an object; and an opening defined in said mask within the confines of said illustration to serve as said intended target site and to expose said target section to facilitate reflection of said laser beam by said target section at said visually distinguishable intensity to indicate impact of said intended target site.

20. The kit of claim 17 wherein at least one target mask is scaled to simulate conditions at predetermined distances.

21. The kit of claim 17 wherein at least one mask includes an opening defined therein to serve as said intended target site and to expose said target section to facilitate reflection of said laser beam by said target section at said visually distinguishable intensity to indicate impact of said intended target site.

22. The kit of claim 21 further including a plurality of said interchangeable target masks, wherein at least two of said masks include said opening having different dimensions to accommodate a particular skill level of a user.

23. In a firearm training system including a laser device attachable to an actual or simulated firearm for projecting a beam of visible laser light toward an intended target site to simulate a projectile in response to operation of said firearm, and a target including a target impact surface having said intended target site and a plurality of sections with at least two of said sections having different reflective properties, a method of identifying simulated projectile impact locations comprising the step of: (a) reflecting said laser beam from an impacted target surface section to produce a reflected beam having a visually distinguishable intensity in accordance with the reflective property of the impacted section, wherein said visually distinguishing intensity identifies a position of said impacted surface section and a simulated projectile impact location on said target surface relative to said intended target site.

24. The method of claim 23 wherein said plurality of target surface sections includes a target section of retroreflective material having said intended target site and greater reflective properties than the remaining sections of said target surface, and step (a) further includes: (a.1) covering said target section with an interchangeable target mask to designate and arrange said intended target site in a manner to facilitate firearm training for a particular firearm activity.

25. The method of claim 24 wherein said target mask is transparent and includes a grid pattern providing a frame of reference for said intended target site, and step (a) further includes: (a.2) indicating an offset between said simulated projectile impact location and said intended target site via said grid pattern.

26. The method of claim 24 wherein said target mask includes an illustration of an object and an opening defined in said mask within the confines of said illustration to serve as said intended target site, and step (a) further includes: (a.2) exposing said target section via said opening and indicating impact of said intended target site by reflecting said laser beam from said exposed target section at said visually distinguishable intensity.

27. The method of claim 24 wherein said target mask is scaled, and step (a) further includes: (a.2) simulating conditions at predetermined distances by utilizing said target at scaled distances.

28. The method of claim 24 wherein said target mask includes an opening defined therein to serve as said intended target site, and step (a) further includes: (a.2) exposing said target section via said opening and indicating impact of said intended target site by reflecting said laser beam from said exposed target section at said visually distinguishable intensity.

29. The method of claim 28 further including a plurality of said interchangeable target masks, wherein each of said masks includes said opening having a different dimension, and step (a) further includes: (a.3) interchanging said masks having said openings of different dimensions on said target to accommodate a particular skill level of a user.

30. In a firearm training system including a laser device attachable to an actual or simulated firearm for projecting a beam of visible laser light toward an intended target site to simulate a projectile in response to operation of said firearm, a target comprising: target impact means for supporting said intended target site and including a plurality of sections with at least two of said sections having different reflective properties to produce respective reflected beams having visually distinguishable intensities in response to said laser beam impacting said target impact means, wherein said visually distinguishable intensity of a reflected beam identifies a position of an impacted target means section and a simulated projectile impact location on said target impact means relative to said intended target site; and support means for supporting said target impact means to receive said laser beam.

31. The target of claim 30 wherein said plurality of sections includes a target section of retroreflective material having said intended target site and greater reflective properties than the remaining sections of said target impact means.

32. The target of claim 31 further including: interchangeable target mask means for covering said target section, wherein said mask means is configured to designate and arrange said intended target site in a manner to facilitate firearm training for a particular firearm activity.

33. The target of claim 32 wherein said mask means is transparent and includes grid means for providing a frame of reference for said intended target site to indicate an offset between said simulated projectile impact location and said intended target site.

34. The target of claim 32 wherein said mask means includes: an illustration of an object; and an opening defined in said mask means within the confines of said illustration to serve as said intended target site and to expose said target section to facilitate reflection of said laser beam by said target section at said visually distinguishable intensity to indicate impact of said intended target site.

35. The target of claim 32 wherein said mask means is scaled to simulate conditions at predetermined distances.

36. The target of claim 32 wherein said mask means includes an opening defined therein to serve as said intended target site and to expose said target section to facilitate reflection of said laser beam by said target section at said visually distinguishable intensity to indicate impact of said intended target site.

37. The target of claim 36 further including a plurality of said interchangeable target mask means, wherein each of said mask means includes said opening having a different dimension to accommodate a particular skill level of a user.

38. In a firearm training system including a laser device attachable to an actual or simulated firearm for projecting a beam of visible laser light toward an intended target site to simulate a projectile in response to operation of said firearm and a target structure including a target section having said intended target site and greater reflective properties than the remaining sections of said target structure, wherein said target structure produces respective reflected beams having visually distinguishable intensities in response to said laser beam impacting said target structure to identify a position of an impacted target section and a simulated projectile impact location on said target structure relative to said intended target site, a simulated target comprising: interchangeable target mask means for covering said target section, wherein said mask means includes indicia to designate said intended target site and is configured in a manner to facilitate firearm training for a particular firearm activity; and fastening means for removably securing said mask means to said target structure.

39. The target of claim 38 wherein said mask means is transparent and said indicia include a grid pattern providing said intended target site and a frame of reference for said intended target site to indicate an offset between said simulated projectile impact location and said intended target site.

40. The target of claim 38 wherein said indicia include: an illustration of an object; and an opening defined in said mask means within the confines of said illustration to serve as said intended target site and to expose said target section to facilitate reflection of said laser beam by said target section at a visually distinguishable intensity to indicate impact of said intended target site.

41. The target of claim 38 wherein said mask means is scaled to simulate conditions at predetermined distances.

42. The target of claim 38 wherein said indicia include an opening defined in said mask means to serve as said intended target site and to expose said target section to facilitate reflection of said laser beam by said target section at a visually distinguishable intensity to indicate impact of said intended target site.

43. The target of claim 42 further including a plurality of said interchangeable target mask means, wherein each of said mask means includes said opening having a different dimension to accommodate a particular skill level of a user.

44. A firearm training system kit comprising: laser means attachable to an actual or simulated firearm for projecting a beam of visible laser light toward an intended target site to simulate a projectile in response to operation of said firearm; and target means for supporting said intended target site and including a plurality of sections with at least two of said sections having different reflective properties to produce respective reflected beams having visually distinguishable intensities in response to said laser beam impacting said target means, wherein said visually distinguishable intensity of a reflected beam identifies a position of an impacted target means section and a simulated projectile impact location on said target means relative to said intended target site.

45. The kit of claim 44 wherein said plurality of sections includes a target section of retroreflective material having said intended target site and greater reflective properties than the remaining sections of said target means.

46. The kit of claim 45 further including: at least one interchangeable target mask means for covering said target section, wherein each mask means is configured to designate and arrange said intended target site in a manner to facilitate firearm training for a particular firearm activity.

47. The kit of claim 46 wherein at least one mask means is transparent and includes grid means for providing a frame of reference for said intended target site to indicate an offset between said simulated projectile impact location and said intended target site.

48. The kit of claim 46 wherein at least one mask means includes: an illustration of an object; and an opening defined in said at least one mask means within the confines of said illustration to serve as said intended target site and to expose said target section to facilitate reflection of said laser beam by said target section at said visually distinguishable intensity to indicate impact of said intended target site.

49. The kit of claim 46 wherein at least one mask means is scaled to simulate conditions at predetermined distances.

50. The kit of claim 46 wherein at least one mask means includes an opening defined therein to serve as said intended target site and to expose said target section to facilitate reflection of said laser beam by said target section at said visually distinguishable intensity to indicate impact of said intended target site.

51. The kit of claim 50 further including a plurality of said interchangeable target mask means, wherein at least two of said mask means include said opening having different dimensions to accommodate a particular skill level of a user.