FIREARM TRAINING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to training systems and, more specifically, to firearm training systems, devices, and related methods.

BACKGROUND

Shooting simulation systems are commonly used for training and educational purposes, such as law enforcement or military training. However, creating a realistic, effective, and safe shooting simulation that can simulate the use of a real firearm can be highly difficult.

Furthermore, such shooting simulation systems do not simulate certain actuations of an operational firearm, such as recoil or trigger pull weight, or such shooting simulation systems may be costly and require extensive accessories or equipment to operate. These factors can significantly limit realism, ease of use, and cost effectiveness of such devices. Thus, there is a need for systems and methods to provide adaptive alternatives to firearm training systems providing realistic training.

SUMMARY

A firearm training system may be provided that simulates realistic operations of a firearm. The firearm training system may include a trigger group that simulates a trigger pull weight experienced with a trigger of a real firearm (e.g., operational firearm), a recoil assembly configured to simulate a recoil of a real firearm, a dual-part slide configured to rack similarly to a real firearm, and/or a grip switch configured to actuate a component of the system (e.g., a lighting device) when a user handles the system. Related methods of operation are also provided.

In one or more embodiments, a firearm training system is provided. Firearm training system includes a simulated firearm housing, a recoil assembly disposed within the housing. The recoil assembly includes a solenoid, and a plunger disposed at least partially within the solenoid, where the plunger is configured to translate rearward from a rest position to an actuated position along a longitudinal axis of the housing to simulate a recoil associated with a discharge of a firearm in response to an actuation of the solenoid.

In one or more embodiments, a firearm training system is provided. The firearm training system includes a training magazine. Training magazine includes a training magazine body configured to be received by a magazine well of a simulated firearm housing, a power source disposed within the body and configured to power a component of the firearm training system, and a first set of one or more electrical contacts configured to interface with a first set of one or more complementary electrical contacts of the magazine well in response to an insertion of the body into the magazine well to pass electrical power from the power source to the component disposed within the housing.

In one or more embodiments, a firearm training system is provided. The firearm training system includes a simulated firearm. The simulated firearm includes a lower receiver having a grip and a trigger, and a simulated slide. The slide includes a forward component fixably secured to the lower receiver, a rear component slidably secured to the lower receiver and the forward component, and a spring configured to bias the rear component relative to the forward component and compress in response to a rearward sliding of the rear component by a user to simulate a racking of the firearm.

In one or more embodiments, a system is provided. The system includes a grip switch configured to be positioned on a grip of a lower receiver of a firearm. The grip switch includes a base configured to be attached to the grip and a button at least partially disposed within a cavity of the base. The button is configured to rotate relative to the base between an unlocked orientation and a locked orientation in response to a first manipulation by a user, depress relative to the base while in the unlocked orientation to generate a control signal in response to a second manipulation by the user, and prevent a depression relative to the base while in the locked orientation to prevent generation of the control signal in response to the second manipulation.

The scope of the invention is defined by the claims, which are incorporated into this section by reference. A more complete understanding of embodiments of the present invention will be afforded to those skilled in the art, as well as a realization of additional advantages thereof, by a consideration of the following detailed description of one or more embodiments. Reference will be made to the appended sheets of drawings that will first be described briefly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIGS. 1-8 illustrate various views of a firearm training system in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates a block diagram of the firearm training system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the firearm training system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 11-13 illustrate various views of a training magazine of the firearm training system in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of the training magazine with a front plate of the body removed for illustrative purposes in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 15-18 illustrate various views of a trigger group of the firearm training system in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate cross-sectional views of an actuation of the trigger group as seen along the lines of the section 5-5 taken in FIG. 5 in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of the firearm training system with the forward component removed for illustrative purposes in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective view of a slide of the firearm training system with the forward component shown as transparent for illustrative purposes in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 22 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the slide of the firearm training system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective view of the firearm train system during racking of the slide in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 24A and 24B illustrate cross-sectional views of a racking of the slide as seen along the lines of the section 5-5 taken in FIG. 5 in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 25 illustrates a recoil assembly of the firearm training system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 26A and 26B illustrate a perspective view of the firearm training system with the slide removed for illustrative purposes showing the actuation of the recoil assembly in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 27-29 illustrate various views of a slide switch assembly of the firearm training system in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 30 illustrates an actuation of the slide switch assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 31A-31F illustrate various views of a grip switch of the firearm training system in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 32 illustrates a flowchart for a process of operating a recoil assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 33 illustrates a flowchart for a process of operating a training magazine in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 34 illustrates a flowchart for a process of operating a slide in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 35 illustrates a flowchart for a process of operating a grip switch in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 36 illustrates a flowchart for a process of operating a firearm training system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Embodiments of the present disclosure and their advantages are best understood by referring to the detailed description that follows. It is noted that sizes of various components and distances between these components are not drawn to scale in the figures. It should be appreciated that like reference numerals are used to identify like elements illustrated in one or more of the figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Methods and systems are described herein for providing firearm training devices, systems, and methods. In accordance with various embodiments provided herein, the firearm training system may provide realistic actuations and components for training and/or educational purposes. For instance, the firearm training system may include a simulated firearm housing and a recoil assembly disposed within the housing. The recoil assembly may include a solenoid and a plunger disposed at least partially within the solenoid, where the plunger is configured to translate rearward from a rest position to an actuated position along a longitudinal axis of the housing to simulate a recoil associated with a discharge of a firearm in response to an actuation of the solenoid.

In one or more embodiments, the firearm training system may include a training magazine. The training magazine may include a training magazine body configured to be received by a magazine well of a simulated firearm housing, a power source disposed within the body and configured to power one or more components of the firearm training system, and a first set of one or more electrical contacts configured to interface with a first set of one or more complementary electrical contacts of the magazine well in response to an insertion of the body into the magazine well to pass electrical power from the power source to the one or more components disposed within the housing.

In one or more embodiments, the firearm training system may include a simulated firearm. The simulated firearm may include a lower receiver having a grip and a trigger, and a simulated slide. The slide includes a forward component fixably secured to the lower receiver, a rear component slidably secured to the lower receiver and the forward component, and a spring configured to bias the rear component relative to the forward component and compress in response to a rearward sliding of the rear component by a user to simulate a racking of the firearm.

In one or more embodiments, a grip switch is provided. The grip switch may be configured to be positioned on a grip of a lower receiver of a firearm (e.g., a training firearm or a real firearm). The grip switch may include a base configured to be attached to the grip and a button at least partially disposed within a cavity of the base. The button is configured to rotate relative to the base between an unlocked orientation and a locked orientation in response to a first manipulation by a user, depress relative to the base while in the unlocked orientation to generate a control signal in response to a second manipulation by the user, and prevent a depression relative to the base while in the locked orientation to prevent generation of the control signal in response to the second manipulation. In other embodiments, each component and/or embodiment of the firearm training system may be used in any desired combination, any desired environment, and for any desired application.

Referring now to the drawings, where the showings are for purposes of illustrating embodiments of the present disclosure and not for purposes of limiting the same, FIGS. 1-8 illustrate various views of a firearm training system 100 (also referred to herein as a “training system” or “system”) in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure. Firearm training system 100 may include a simulated firearm housing 102. Simulated firearm housing 102 (also referred to herein as a “housing”) may include a lower receiver 104 and a simulated slide 106 secured to lower receiver 104. In various embodiments, lower receiver 104 may simulate a lower portion of a real firearm. For instance, lower receiver 104 may simulate a lower, or frame (e.g., grip module), of a real firearm (e.g., a functional firearm) such as a pistol, rifle, shotgun, and/or other firearm. In various embodiments, the firearm may include a training firearm (e.g., a replica, demonstrator, inert firearm, and/or the like). In other embodiments, the firearm may include a real firearm (e.g., an operational firearm). In some embodiments, the firearm may include a fully operational firearm, partially operational firearm, and/or non-operational firearm.

In one or more embodiments, lower receiver 104 may include a grip 108 and trigger 110. In some embodiments, grip 108 may include an extended portion of a frame (e.g., lower receiver 104) of housing 102. Grip 108 may be configured to be held (e.g., gripped or handled) by a user during operation and/or use of system 100. Grip 108 may include a magazine well 112. For instance, magazine well 112 may include a cavity defined by inner surfaces of grip 108. Magazine well 112 may be configured to receive a training magazine 120 (also referred to herein as a “magazine”), as discussed further below. One or more embodiments, grip 108 may be used by a user to hold and operate system 100. In various embodiments, grip 108 may include various types of surface texturing. For example, grip 108 may include stippling. For instance, and without limitation, stippling may include a plurality of raised surfaces (e.g., rectangular raised surfaces) on a surface of grip 108. In one or more embodiments, magazine well 112 may include complementary contacts configured to abut contacts of training magazine 120 when inserted into grip 108 (e.g., magazine well 112), as discussed further below.

In several embodiments, grip 108 may include a stippled grip. For instance, grip 108 may include texturing and/or stippling to improve a user's hold (e.g., grip) on grip 108. In some embodiments, the stippled grip may be used to provide one or more gripping surfaces for system 100. Though shown as a pistol grip in FIGS. 1-8, as understood by one skilled in the art, grip may include various other grips associated with system 100. For example, stippled grip 108 may include a hand grip (e.g., pistol grip), fore grip, rail grip, or stock of system 100.

In some embodiments, the stippled grip may include stippling exhibiting one or more patterns. In some embodiments, the stippling may be provided in discrete sections and/or may continuously wrap about grip 108. In some embodiments, the stippling may be integrated into grip 108 (e.g., the grip and the stippling may include a monolithic component) and/or a plurality of components mounted to grip 108. Various techniques and/or treatments may be used to create the stippling on grip 108. For example, molding, additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, chemical or laser etching, three-dimensional (3D) printing, layering using one or more materials, and/or any other techniques may be used to create grip 108 and/or stippling on grip 108.

In some embodiments, grip 108 may be various shapes and sizes. For example, the grip may be cylindrical, where the stippling extends about the surface of the cylindrical grip. In another example, grip may be a rectangular cuboid. In another example, grip may have a symmetrical or asymmetrical polygonal cross-section.

In one or more embodiments, a trigger group 130, which includes trigger 110, may be disposed at least partially within lower receiver 104. Trigger group 130 may be secured to lower receiver 104 using one or more fasteners such as, for example, one or more pins, screws, bolts, and so on. As discussed further below herein, characteristics of trigger group 130 (e.g., trigger pull weight) may be adjusted using, for example, a sear ramp 318, which may be accessible to a user through a notch 118 of slide 106, as shown in FIG. 3. In some embodiments, the trigger group may simulate a single-stage trigger. In other embodiments, the trigger group may simulate a dual-stage trigger.

Still referring to FIGS. 1-8, grip 108 may include a grip switch 140 configured to actuate one or more components of system 100. For instance, grip switch 140 may be configured to actuate a lighting device, such as lighting device 122, of system 100. Lighting device 122 may include a light source configured to turn on and off in response to an actuation of grip switch 140. In some embodiments, grip switch 140 may be implemented as a momentary switch configured to actuate one or more components of system 100 temporarily. In other embodiments, grip switch 140 may be implemented as an alternate switch configured to actuate one or more components of system 100 until a second actuation (e.g., a second depression of a button of grip switch 140) by the user.

In one or more embodiments, lower receiver 104 may include one or more magazine releases 116 configured to release magazine 120 from magazine well 112 so that a user may remove magazine 120 from magazine well 112. In some embodiments, magazine release 116 may include an ambidextrous magazine release that includes a pair of releases located on opposite sides of lower receiver 104.

In one or more embodiments, housing 102 may include a rail 114. For example, and without limitation, rail 114 may include a universal rail of lower receiver 104, as shown in FIG. 1, and/or a picatinny rail of an upper receiver (e.g., slide or upper) and/or lower receiver (e.g., frame or lower). In one or more embodiments, a rail mountable lighting device may be secured to system 100 using rail 114 and/or communicatively connected to grip switch 140. In some embodiments, grip switch 140 may be configured to control (e.g., actuate) the rail mountable lighting device. In some embodiments, grip switch 140 may be wired or wirelessly connected (e.g., communicatively connected) to the rail mountable lighting device.

In several embodiments, lower receiver 104 may include one or more slide switch assemblies 132 configured to transmit, in response to a user manipulation translating slide 106 rearward, a control signal associated with an operational status of system 100, as discussed further below in this disclosure. In some embodiments, system 100 may include a single slide switch assembly 132 attached to lower receiver 104 and adjacent to slide 106. In other embodiments, system 100 may include a pair of slide switch assemblies 132 located on opposite sides of lower receiver 104, as shown in FIG. 6.

Still referring to FIGS. 1-8, housing 102 includes simulated slide 106 (also referred to herein as a “slide”) that may be secured to lower receiver 104. For instance, slide 106 may be slidably attached to lower receiver 104 such that slide 106 may translate (e.g., linearly translate along a longitudinal axis A of slide 106, as shown in FIG. 3) relative to lower receiver 104. Slide 106 may be slidably attached to lower receiver 104 using a track of lower receiver 104 and a complementary track of slide 106. In some embodiments, slide 106 may include a monolithic slide composed of a singular piece. In other embodiments, slide 106 may include a dual-part slide assembly having a forward component 126 and a rear component 136, as discussed further herein below. Housing 102 may be composed of, for example, one or more polymers, carbon fiber, metals, and/or the like. For instance, lower receiver 104 may be composed of plastic and slide 106 may be composed of metal, such as stainless steel.

In various embodiments, forward component 126 may include a notch 192 configured to engage a holster to secure system 100 within a holster, as shown in FIG. 2. In some embodiments, notch 192 may be located and shaped similar to an ejection port of a real firearm.

FIG. 9 illustrates a block diagram of firearm training system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In various embodiments, system 100 may include a logic device 152, slide switch assembly 132, solenoid 502, lighting device 122, visible status indicator 156 (also referred to herein as a “status indicator” or “indicator”), trigger 110, other components 158, and complementary electrical contacts 154. System 100 may further include magazine 120, which may be received by magazine well 112 of housing 102, as previously mentioned. In one or more embodiments, when magazine 120 is inserted into magazine well 112, electrical contacts 212 of magazine 120 may abut complementary electrical contacts 154 of housing 102 (e.g., magazine well 112) so that control signals may be transmitted and/or electrical communication may be facilitated between logic device 152 and magazine 120.

In one or more embodiments, logic device 152 may control one or more components of system 100. For instance, logic device 152 may be communicatively connected to slide switch assembly 132, solenoid 502, lighting device 122, status indicator 156, trigger 110, magazine 120, and or other components 158, as discussed further below. For example, and without limitation, logic device 152 may actuate components of system 100 such as slide switch assembly 132, solenoid 502, lighting device 122, status indicator 156, and so on, using transmitted signals.

In various embodiments, logic device 152 may include one or more logic devices. For example, logic device may include a plurality of logic devices, such as logic devices 1024 (shown in FIG. 10), 188 (shown in FIG. 10), 220 (shown in FIG. 14), and/or 312 (shown in FIG. 15). In other embodiments, logic device 152 may include a singular logic device disposed within housing 102 and configured to control and/or actuate one or more components of system 100. In some embodiments, logic device 152 may be implemented as any appropriate logic device, such as, for example, a controller, microcontroller, processor, microprocessor, processing device, control circuit, programmable logic device (PLD) configured to perform processing operations, single-core processor, multi-core processor, digital signal processing (DSP) device, system on a chip (SOC), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array (FPGA), memory storage device, memory reader, and/or any other appropriate combinations of processing devices and/or memory to execute instructions to perform appropriate operations, such as, for example, software instructions implementing for performing and/or controlling various operations of system 100 discussed herein. Such software instructions may also implement methods for processing images, processing sensor signals, determining sensor information, providing user feedback (e.g., through a user interface or a remote user device), querying devices for modes of operation, selecting modes of operation or operational parameters for devices and/or systems, or performing any of the various operations described herein (e.g., operations performed by logic devices of various devices of system 100).

Logic device 152 may include, be included in, and/or communicate with any firearm training system. In some embodiments, logic device 152 may include a single computing device operating independently. In other embodiments, logic device 152 may include two or more logic devices operating in concert, in parallel, redundantly, sequentially, or in any other manner appropriate for operating system 100 and/or associated components thereof. Logic device 152 may include a plurality of logic devices in a single integrated unit (e.g., a plurality of logics disposed within housing 102 of system 100). In other embodiments, logic device 152 may include a plurality of logic devices part of two or more computing devices or systems. For instance, logic device 152 may include a singular logic device or a cluster of logic devices in a first location and a second logic device or cluster of logic devices in a second location. In several embodiments, logic device 152 may be implemented as a memory, where logic device may include one or more logic devices dedicated to data storage. In one or more embodiments, logic device 152 may be configured to perform any process, step, and/or sequence of steps described herein in any order and with any degree of repetition.

Logic device 152 may be communicatively connected to any components described in this disclosure and configured to interface and communicate with the various components illustrated in FIGS. 1-9 and 11-31D. It should be appreciated that processing operations and/or instructions may be integrated in software and/or hardware as part of logic device 152, or code (e.g., software or configuration data) that may be stored in, for example, a memory component communicatively connected to logic device 152. Embodiments of processing operations and/or instructions disclosed in this disclosure may be stored by a machine-readable medium in a non-transitory manner (e.g., a memory, a hard drive, a compact disk, a digital video disk, or a flash memory) to be executed by a computer (e.g., logic or processor-based system) to perform various operations.

In some embodiments, logic device 152 may include a memory and/or is communicatively connected to a remote memory configured to store software instructions or databases used by logic device 152. For instance, memory may include a machine-readable medium that may be provided for storing non-transitory instructions for loading into and execution by logic device 152. In various embodiments, memory may be included as part of logic device 152 and/or separate from logic device 152, with stored instructions provided to logic device 152 by communicatively connecting memory to logic device 152. In some embodiments, memory may include one or more memory devices (e.g., one or more memories) to store data and information. The one or more memory devices may include various types of memory including volatile and non-volatile memory devices, such as RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically-Erasable Read-Only Memory), flash memory, or other types of memory. In some embodiments, memory may include RAM (e.g., static and/or dynamic) memory and/or flash memory, clock-related circuitry (e.g., clock sources, PLL circuits, and/or DLL circuits), and/or various routing resources (e.g., interconnect and appropriate switching logic to provide paths for routing signals throughout logic device 152, such as for clock signals, data signals, or others) as appropriate.

In one embodiment, logic device 152 may be configured to execute software stored in the memory to perform various methods, processes, and operations in a manner as described herein. In various embodiments, the memory may be implemented as a volatile memory, non-volatile memory, one or more interfaces, and/or various analog and/or digital components for interfacing with devices and/or components of system 100. In some embodiments, the memory may be adapted to execute one or more feedback loops for operation of system 100. In some embodiments, a feedback loop may include processing images, sensor signals, and/or parameters in order to control one or more operations of system 100.

In one or more embodiments, logic device 152 may be configured actuate solenoid 502 in response to a control signal, such as control signal 901. In some embodiments, control signal 901 may be generated by an actuation of trigger 110 by a user manipulation (e.g., pulling of trigger 110 by the user). For example, logic device 152 may displace a plunger 510 of a recoil assembly 150 by controlling (e.g., generating or altering) a current and/or voltage passed through solenoid 502 of the recoil assembly 150, shown in FIG. 25. In response to the actuation of trigger 110, plunger 510 may be configured to translate rearward from a rest position to an actuated position along a longitudinal axis B of housing 102 to simulate a recoil associated with a discharge of a firearm in response.

Still referring to FIG. 9, training magazine 120 may include a power source 218 configured to power a component (e.g., logic device 152, lighting device 122, status indicator 156, and so on) of system 100. A first set of one or more electrical contacts 212a (shown in FIG. 13) configured to interface with a first set of one or more complementary electrical contacts 154a of magazine well 112 of housing 102 in response to an insertion of magazine 120 into magazine well 112 to pass electrical power 903a from power source 218 to the component disposed within housing 102. In several embodiments, magazine 120 may further include one or more user selectable switches 206, such as selectable switches 206a and 206b shown in FIG. 11. A second set of one or more electrical contacts 212b (shown in FIG. 13) may be configured to interface with a second set of one or more complementary electrical contacts 154b of magazine well 112 in response to an insertion of magazine 120 into magazine well 112 to pass control signals 903b from selectable switches 206 to adjust a mode of operation of system 100 (e.g., logic device 152). The mode of operation of system 100 may include a manner by which system 100 functions. For instance, the mode of operation may include parameters associated with a firing capacity of system 100 (e.g., quantity of available rounds per training session), parameters associated with experienced faults (e.g., whether faults occur during a training session), and so on, as discussed further below herein.

In one or more embodiments, the one or more selectable switches 206 may include a magazine capacity switch (e.g., switch 206a of FIG. 11) configured to adjust parameters associate with a quantity of rounds (e.g., a number of rounds) available during a training session managed by logic device 152. For example, magazine capacity switch 206a may be configured to alter a number of rounds available during a training session, which may include 10 rounds, 50 rounds, or any number of rounds (e.g., an unlimited number of rounds where a user may fire as many simulated rounds as desired in one session).

Additionally or alternatively, one or more selectable switches 206 may include a fault switch (e.g., switch 206b of FIG. 11) configured to activate a fault mode of operation of logic device 152 to simulate a malfunction of a firearm during a training session managed by logic device 152. Fault mode of operation may include system 100 simulating intermittent faults (e.g., malfunctions) during operation of system 100. For example, during a training session when a fault mode of operation is activated, system 100 may simulate one fault every five rounds fired. In some embodiments, status indicator 156 of system 100 may be configured to inform a user of a simulated fault by illuminating. Alternatively and/or additionally, trigger 110 of system 100 may be configured to inform a user of a fault by not actuating any components of system 100 (e.g., logic device 152 not actuating any components of system 100 in response to a control signal 901 from trigger 110) until the user executes one or more clearing actions. A clearing action may include, for example, a user racking slide 106. In another example, a clearing action may include removing magazine 120 from magazine well 112 using magazine release 116 and reinserting magazine 120 into magazine well 112. Intermittent fault simulations during a training session may prepare a user for potential faults experienced by a user when operating a real firearm. More specifically, fault mode of operation may educate a user on how to clear a real firearm and/or fix a real firearm during a malfunction and/or failure in the field. A real firearm fault and/or malfunction may include a mechanical firearm malfunction or cartridge malfunction. For example, a real firearm malfunction may include a misfire, a misfeed, a light primer strike, and/or a jam, such as, but not limited to, a stovepipe, failure to eject, rim lock, case head separation, and so on. In some embodiments, fault mode of operation may be turned on (e.g., activated) or off (e.g., deactivated) by the fault switch. In other embodiments, fault mode may include a selection of the frequency of simulated faults (e.g., number of simulated faults total and/or per rounds fired) during a training session.

As previously mentioned, visible status indicator 156 may be configured to inform a user of an operational status of system 100. In some embodiments, status indicator 156 may include a light (e.g., one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). In other embodiments, status indicator 156 may include a display. In some embodiments, status indicator may be configured to generate a sound to inform the user of an operational status of system 100.

In various embodiments, status indicator 156 may include an LED that turns on or off, blinks at one or more frequencies, alternates wavelengths, and so on to communicate a particular operational status of system 100. For instance, in a non-limiting example, visible status indicator 156 may include an LED configured to blink, indicating a power level of power source 218 being below a predetermined threshold. In another example, visible status indicator 156 may be configured to remain on (e.g., solid light) to indicate a fault. In another example, visible status indicator 156 may be configured to show solid light to indicate magazine 120 is “empty” (e.g., no more rounds are available for a training session and/or the training session has ended). In other embodiments, status indicator 156 may include a display configured to flash specific colors, words, symbols, and so on to inform a user of the operational status of system 100.

In one or more embodiments, system 100 may include slide switch assembly 132. Slide switch assembly 132 may include a slide switch 2704 having a ramped surface 174 and a pin 190 having a complementary ramped surface 3002, where pin 190 is substantially orthogonal to slide switch 2704, as discussed further in FIGS. 27-30. When the user manipulation translates rear component 136 rearward, rear component 136 displaces slide switch 2704 downward such that ramped surface 174 abuts complementary ramp surface 3002 and moves pin 190 inward relative to lower receiver 104 (e.g., an inner surface of lower receiver 104) to transmit a control signal to logic device 152. In various embodiments, the displacement of slide switch 2704 may transmit a control signal to logic device 152, indicating that slide 106 has been racked. Racking of slide 106 (e.g., displacing slide switch 2704) may simulate the chambering of a cartridge to initiate a training session, where the user may thereafter actuate trigger 110 to fire rounds. Racking of slide 106, and thus displacing slide switch 2704, may also be used to clear a fault, as previously discussed herein.

Still referring to FIG. 9, system 100 may include other components 158. Other components 158 may include, for example, a remote and communicatively connected target, one or more sensors (e.g., a gyroscope, accelerometer, imaging device such as a camera, and so on), a red dot sight, a rail mountable lighting device, and so on.

In various embodiments, grip switch 140 may include a base 402 configured to be attached to grip 108 and a button 404 at least partially disposed within a cavity of base 402, where button 404 may be moved relative to base 402 and grip 108, as described further in FIGS. 31A-31F. Button 404 may be configured to rotate relative to base 402 between unlocked orientation and a locked orientation in response to a first manipulation by a user. Button 404 may also be configured to depress relative to base 402 while in the unlocked orientation to generate a control signal, such as control signal 901, in response to a second manipulation by the user. Furthermore, button 404 may be configured to prevent a depression relative to base 402 while in the locked orientation to prevent generation of control signal 901 in response to the second manipulation.

In some embodiments, the control signal from grip switch 140 is configured to cause logic device 152 to activate lighting device 122 (e.g., optical assembly, laser sight as shown in FIGS.-1-8, and so on). In one or more embodiments, grip switch 140 may adjust an operation of lighting device 122 (e.g., activate lighting device, deactivate lighting device, change the color of light projected by lighting device, change the power output of lighting device, and so on). Lighting device 122 may include a laser sight configured to project a laser light onto a target when activated by logic device 152. In various embodiments, the control signal is a first control signal and logic device 152 is configured to cause the laser light to pulse in response to a second control signal generated in response to an actuation of trigger 110 of system 100.

In some embodiments, laser sight may be mounted to rail 114 of system 100. In other embodiments, laser sight may be integrated into system 100 (e.g., integrated into housing 102 of system 100). In an embodiment, laser sight may include a light source used to illuminate a desired scene. For example, the laser sight may project a laser light (e.g., light beam) onto a target. User controls, such as grip switch 140, may be used to activate the laser sight and/or light source by transmitting a control signal to logic device 152. In another embodiment, user controls may provide momentary buttons. Though shown as buttons in the figures, user controls may also be switches, rockers, sliders, triggers, or other control mechanisms. Power source 218 and/or 1020 (e.g., batteries, such as lithium ion, lithium manganese CR123A, or other batteries) may power the laser sight.

In an embodiment, laser sight may include the light source. The light source may include, for example, a light emitting diode (LED), an incandescent light bulb, a tungsten-halogen light bulb, a fluorescent light bulb, a high-intensity discharge light bulb, or any other singular or plural light source devices. The laser sight may include one light source, two light sources, or more than two light sources. In an embodiment, the light source may generate light of various wavelengths (e.g., different colors of visible light such as red light, blue light, violent light, green light, or combinations thereof and/or invisible light, such as infrared light or ultraviolet).

In one or more embodiments, the laser sight may include a solid-state laser sight. In other embodiments, the laser sight may include a chemical laser, semiconductor laser, gas laser, metal vapor laser, or other type of laser. The laser radiation may include various values, for example, laser light may include a visible wavelength within the range 400 nm and 700 nm (nanometers) or laser light may include an infrared or ultraviolet beam visible with night vision accessories or infrared imaging devices. In an embodiment, the power output (milliwatts, or mW) of the laser sight may be varied in response to a laser driver signal (e.g., a current signal) from a laser driver of the laser sight, which in turn may provide the laser driver signal to the laser sight in response to logic device 152, which may receive a control signal from, for example, grip switch 140 and/or trigger 110, to actuate the laser sight. In various embodiments, the laser driver may provide a current at an appropriate level to the light source of the laser sight (e.g., one or more laser diodes) to determine the output power of the laser sight.

In one or more embodiments, laser sight may include a variable output laser sight configured to generate a plurality of laser beams at different output powers and/or at different amplitudes. In some embodiments, logic device 152 may adjust the operation of the laser sight (e.g., turn on, turn off, flash, strobe, increase in intensity or brightness, decrease in intensity or brightness) based on a control signal received from user controls, such as trigger 110 or grip switch 140. In various embodiments, laser sight may generate light beams at different amplitudes based on control signals received from logic device 152. For instance, laser sight may be configured to project a laser light at a first amplitude, or intensity, onto a target when activated by logic device 152, where the logic device 152 is configured to activate the laser light at the first amplitude based on a first control signal received by a user actuating grip switch 140. In another instance, logic device 152 may be configured to cause the laser light to project at a second amplitude that is different from the first amplitude in response to a second control signal that is generated in response to an actuation of trigger 110 of system 100 to simulate a round being fired from the firearm. For example, a user may hold system 100 by grip 108, thus actuating grip switch 140 and activating laser sight to project a laser light of a first amplitude. The user may then actuate trigger 110 to adjust an operation of laser sight so that laser sight projects a laser light of a second amplitude. In some embodiments, first amplitude may be higher than second amplitude. In other embodiments, second amplitude may be higher that first amplitude. FIG. 10 illustrates an exploded perspective view of firearm training system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 10, firearm training system 100 may include slide 106, rear component 136, forward component 126, sight 134, rear plate 1004, plate screws 1002, extension member 170, extension member washer 706, extension member spring 702, extension abutment surfaces 708, screws 1008, logic device (e.g., printed circuit board, PCB) screws 1018, forward slide screws 1014, sight screw 1016, solenoid cover 1030, solenoid plate 1032, plunger stem 506, plunger cap 512, plunger spring 508, solenoid 502, solenoid wires 1054, solenoid casing 1046, slide switch assembly 132, slied switch ball bearing 148, guide knob 166, slide switch spring 182, pin 190, lower receiver screws 1050, solenoid logic device 188, trigger group pins 308, 314, 320, 322, and 1048, sear bar 304, trigger group housing 302, switch 328, sear ramp 318, torsion spring 306, trigger 110, trigger spring 316, trigger guard insert 1052, o-ring 1044 of trigger group 130, lighting device logic device 1024, lighting device power source 1020, simulated muzzle 124, grip switch 140, grip switch wires 1036, grip pin 1010, lower receiver 104, grip 108, magazine well 112, screw 1034, muzzle screws 1038, magazine 120, trigger guard 128, status indicator 156, grip screw 1042, and magazine release 116.

FIGS. 11-14 illustrate various views of a training magazine 120 of firearm training system 100 in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure. Training magazine 120 may include a training magazine body 202 configured to be received by magazine well 112 (shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 19A) of simulated firearm housing 102. Training magazine 120 may further include one or more power sources (e.g., power source 218, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 14) disposed within body 202 and configured to power one or more components of system 100. Training magazine 120 may further include a first set of one or more electrical contacts 212a configured to interact with a first set of one or more complementary electrical contacts 154a (shown in FIG. 9) of magazine well 112 in response to an insertion of body 202 into magazine well 112 to pass electrical power from power source 218 to one or more components disposed within housing 102 of system 100.

In one or more embodiments, magazine 120 includes one or more user selectable switches 206 (also referred to herein as “switches”), which may be disposed on body 202. Selectable switches 206 may include a plurality of switches, such as magazine capacity switch 206a and fault switch 206b. Magazine 120 may include second set of one or more electrical contacts 212b configured to interface with a second set of one or more complementary electrical contacts 154b of magazine well 112 in response to an insertion of body 202 into magazine well 112 to pass control signals from selectable switches 206 to logic device 152 to adjust the mode of operation of logic device 152 (shown in FIG. 9). In some embodiments, selectable switches 206 may include resistive switches. Control signals from magazine 120 based on positions and/or settings of switches 206 may include voltages and/or currents adjusted by selectable switches 206 and passed between second sets of electrical contacts 212b. In several embodiments, switch 206a may include magazine capacity switch 206a, and switch 206b may include fault switch 206b. Magazine capacity switch 206a may be configured to adjust a number of rounds available during a training session managed by logic device 152, as previously discussed in FIG. 9. Fault switch 206b may be configured to activate or deactivate a fault mode of operation of logic device 152 to simulate a malfunction during a training session managed by logic device 152, as previously discussed in FIG. 9.

In various embodiments, visible status indicator 156 may be configured to inform a user of the operational status (e.g., current operational status) of system 100. In some embodiments, the operational status may be based on the mode of operation of system 100. For instance, operational status may include a magazine capacity status, a fault mode of operation, and/or a power level status of power source 218. A magazine capacity status may include, for example, information associated with how many rounds have been fired and/or how many rounds are left to be fired in a training session. For instance, visible status indicator 156 may include an LED disposed at least partially within slide 106 that illuminates when all rounds (e.g., n rounds of an n-round magazine capacity mode of operation) have been fired during a training session. For example, visible status indicator 156 may turn on when a user selected a 10-round magazine capacity mode of operation for a training session and subsequently has actuated the trigger 10 times, thus firing all rounds for that session, to indicate an operational status of a concluded training session and/or a simulated “empty” magazine.

The fault mode of operation may include, for example, information associated with a simulated fault, as previously mentioned in FIG. 9. For instance, trigger 110 may no longer actuate when a fault occurs. Visible status indicator 156 may turn on to inform a user that a fault simulation is occurring (e.g., fault operational status) and that trigger 110 will not actuate until the user clears the fault (e.g., the user executes a fault clearing action such as removing magazine 120 from magazine well 112 and/or racking slide 106).

A power level status may include information associated with a power level of power source 218 (e.g., a power source). For instance, the power source may include a battery, where when depletion of the battery is detected by system 100 (e.g., logic device 152), and visible status indicator begins to blink to notify the user that the battery currently requires changing or recharging. In some embodiments, power source may include lithium-ion rechargeable batteries (e.g., SureFire® SF18650B battery). As previously mentioned power source 218 may be disposed within body 202.

FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective view of training magazine 120 with a front plate of body 202 removed for illustrative purposes in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 14, training magazine 120 may include spring loaded member 204, which may extend from an end 222 of magazine body 202. More specifically, spring loaded member 204 may be at least partially disposed within an opening 224 at end 222 of body 202. Spring 216 may be positioned about a post 214 of spring loaded member 204 and configured to bias electrical contacts 212 against complementary electrical contacts 154. Spring loaded member 204 may be configured to be selectively depressed by a user downward toward end 222 and/or into magazine body 202 to simulate a cartridge. For example, spring loaded member 204 may be selectively depressed downward similarly to a cartridge disposed within a real magazine, where the magazine includes a follower and corresponding spring configured to feed cartridges upward into a chamber of a firearm. In some embodiments, spring loaded member 204 may be selectively depressed by the user to simulate a real loaded magazine and thus familiarize a user with cartridge orientation within a magazine and cartridge feel. For example, spring loaded member may be shaped like live ammunition (e.g., a real cartridge) having a bullet disposed within a case.

Magazine 120 may further include a logic device 220 (e.g., a printed circuit board, PCB) used in conjunction with selectable switches 206 to generate the control signal transmitted to logic device 152. Magazine 120 may further include base 210, which may be located at an opposite end 228 of body 202. In various embodiments, body 202 may be composed of various materials, such as, for example, metal, carbon fiber, polymer, and the like.

FIGS. 15-18 illustrate various views of trigger group 130 of firearm training system 100 in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure. Trigger group 130 may be implemented as a simulated trigger in firearm training system 100 that accurately and realistically mimics a trigger of a real firearm. Trigger group 130 (also referred to herein as a “modular trigger group” or “trigger mechanism”) may be implemented in system 100 as a simulated trigger group. Trigger group 130 may provide a realistic trigger weight, pretravel, and/or overtravel. In some embodiments, trigger group 130 may be an interchangeable trigger group so that trigger group 130 may be easily removed from system 100 (e.g., lower receiver 104) and replaced with a second trigger group. For example, a first trigger group may have a trigger simulating a Glock® trigger, and the second trigger group may have a trigger simulating a 1911 trigger. This may allow for a user to become familiar with various types of triggers in real firearms. For example, trigger group 130 may simulate a trigger pull on, for example, a Glock 17, Sig P320, 1911, and so on. Trigger group 130 may be implemented with any of the features disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 11,982,503 issued May 14, 2024 and entitled “MODULAR TRIGGER MECHANISM”, which is incorporated by reference herein.

In various embodiments, trigger group 130 may include, but is not limited to, housing 302, sear ramp 318, sear bar 304, dowell pin 314, trigger limiter pin 308, trigger 110, sear drive pin 320, switch 328, and torsion spring 306. In various embodiments, sear ramp 318 may be operably linked to trigger 110. Sear bar 304 may be secured to trigger 110 (e.g., pivotably secured to trigger 110 using pin 320 shown in FIG. 18). Thus, sear bar 304 may be moveably secured to trigger 110 so that sear bar 304 is configured to bias against sear ramp 318, and, upon a user actuation of trigger 110, is configured to advance past sear ramp 318 to simulate a break.

Trigger group 130 may include housing 302 (also referred to herein as a “frame”) and trigger 110, which extends from housing 302. Trigger 110 may be rotatably attached to housing 302 by pin 322. Trigger group 130 may further include pin 320, shown in FIG. 18, which pivotably attaches trigger 110 to sear bar 304. Trigger group may include pin 314, which is configured to secure trigger group (e.g., frame 302 to housing 102 of system 100). Trigger group 130 may further include torsion spring 306, which extends from housing 302. Torsion spring 306 may be configured to apply a downward force on an upper surface of sear bar 304 to press sear bar 304 into sear ramp 318. Sear bar 304 may include an engagement surface configured to bias a complementary engagement surface 310 of sear ramp 318, as shown in FIG. 18.

In one or more embodiments, trigger group 130 may have an adjustable weight of pull/break, trigger positioning (e.g., travel), and so on. For example, trigger group 130 may have a trigger pull weight between 2 lbs. to 6 lbs. (e.g., hair trigger, standard trigger, and the like). In some embodiments, the break weight of trigger 110 may be adjusted by rotating sear ramp 318. Thus, the angle of complementary engagement surface 310 relative to engagement surface 324 of sear bar 304 may vary the pull weight of trigger 110. Additionally and/or alternatively, the tension of spring 306 may also be used to vary the break weight of trigger 110 by providing a greater or lesser downward force that sear bar 304 must overcome to advance past sear ramp 318. Additionally and/or alternatively, the stiffness of spring 316 may also be used to vary the pull weight and/or travel of trigger 110 and/or return trigger 110 to an initial position (e.g., reset trigger 110) after actuation of trigger 110.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, at least one end of sear ramp 318 may be exposed through an opening of housing 102 (e.g., slide 106) so that a user may rotate sear ramp 318 without disassembling system 100 and/or interchanging trigger group 130 for a second trigger group. In a nonlimiting embodiment, a tool, such as a flat head screwdriver, may be inserted into the notch at the end of sear ramp 318 to rotate sear ramp relative to housing 102 and/or relative to sear bar 304. Rotating sear ramp 318 may adjust an orientation of sear ramp 318 and thus an angle of engagement surface 310 of sear ramp 318 relative to engagement surface 324 of sear bar 304. For example, when engagement surface 310 is substantially orthogonal to engagement surface 324 of sear bar 304 (see FIGS. 19A and 19B), break weight may be at a higher amount (e.g., 6 lbs.) relative to breaks weights when sear ramp 318 is angled at less than 90 degrees.

In one or more embodiments, trigger group 130 includes a logic device (e.g., circuit board 312). Circuit board 312 may be communicatively connected to one or more tactile switches 328 (e.g., opposing tactile switches) configured to detect an advancement and/or reset of sear bar 304.

In some embodiments, trigger group 130 may be implemented as a simulated trigger configured to be used with a training pistol, such as system 100. System 100 may be part of a shooting package that includes a training firearm, such as system 100, and a communicatively connected target and/or a camera system. System 100 may be implemented with any of the features disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,593,912 issued Mar. 14, 2017 and entitled “DYNAMIC TARGETING AND TRAINING SYSTEM”, which is incorporated by reference herein.

FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate a cross-sectional view of an actuation of trigger group 130 as seen along the lines of the section 5-5 taken in FIG. 5 in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 19A, when system 100 is in the rested position engagement surface 324 of sear bar 304 is abutting, or adjacent to) complementary engagement surface 310 of sear ramp 318. During pretravel of trigger 110, engagement surface 324 of sear bar 304 moves toward and/or biases complementary engagement surface 310 of sear ramp 318. The biasing of engagement surface 324 against complementary engagement surface 310 provides a weight of trigger 110 such that the user may perceive the force (e.g., resistance) of engagement surface 324 biasing against complementary engagement surface 310 of sear ramp 318 (e.g., sear ramp 318 preventing sear bar 304 from moving forward). Once more than a specific amount of force is applied to trigger 110 by the user, sear bar 304 may advance past sear ramp 301, as shown in FIG. 19B, to simulate a break of trigger 110. As shown in FIG. 19B, once in the fired position (i.e. after break of trigger 110 or during overtravel of trigger 110), engagement surface 324 of sear bar 304 advances past (e.g., upward and/or forward relative to sear ramp 318) complementary engagement surface 310 of sear ramp 318, as indicated with directional arrow 1901.

FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of firearm training system 100 with the forward component 126 of slide 106 removed for illustrative purposes in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, slide 106 may include a monolithic structure. For instance, slide 106 may include a singular component constructed using one or more various techniques, such as a mold pour, additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, and/or the like. For example, slide 106 may include a simulated slide similar to a conventional firearm slide.

In other embodiments, slide 106 may include a dual-part slide, where slide 106 includes a plurality of components. For example, dual-part slide may include rear component 136 and forward component 126 connected by an extension member 170. Extension member 170 may extend from a threaded receptacle 1906 of rear component 136 and into a bore 1924 of forward component 126 (shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B).

FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective view of simulated slide 106 of firearm training system 100 with forward component 126 shown as transparent for illustrative purposes in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. System 100 may include a simulated firearm having lower receiver 104 and simulated slide 106. In one or more embodiments, slide 106 may include forward component 126, which is fixably secured to lower receiver 104, and rear component 136 slidably secured to lower receiver 104 and forward component 126. Slide 106 further includes spring 702 configured to bias rear component 136 relative to forward component 126 and compress in response to a rearward sliding of rear component 136 by a user to simulate a racking of system 100.

In some embodiments, extension member 170 may share a longitudinal axis A of slide 106. In other embodiments, a longitudinal axis of extension member 170 may be substantially parallel to longitudinal axis A. In various embodiments, rear component 136 may translate rearward when racked by a user, traversing parallel to (e.g., along) longitudinal axis A. In some embodiments, in response to the user manipulation of slide 106, extension member 170 may also translate rearward (e.g., may be displaced by x within bore 1924 as shown in FIG. 24B). As shown in FIG. 21, rear component 136 may include extension abutment surfaces 708, which are configured to compress spring 702 along with head 712 of extension member 170 when rear component 136 is translated rearward (e.g., away from forward component 126). In some embodiments, abutment surfaces 708 may include pins, post, screws, and/or the like.

FIG. 22 illustrates an exploded perspective view of slide 106 of firearm training system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As previously mentioned herein, slide 106 may include rear component 136, forward component 126, washer 706, spring 702, extension member 170, status indicator 156, abutment surfaces 708, screws 1016 and 1014, lighting device 122 disposed in simulated muzzle 124, sights 134, and guide knob 166.

FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective view of firearm training system 100 during racking of slide 106 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. System 100 may include a simulated firearm having lower receiver 104 and simulated slide 106. In one or more embodiments, slide 106 may include forward component 126, which is fixably secured to lower receiver 104, and rear component 136 slidably secured to lower receiver 104 and forward component 126. Slide 106 may include spring 702, which may be configured to bias rear component 136 relative to forward component 126 and compress in response to a rearward sliding of rear component 136 by a user to simulate racking of system 100.

A rearward movement by slide 106 may include slide 106 moving substantially parallel to longitudinal axis A toward a rear of system 100, as shown by directional arrow 2301 in FIG. 23. In some embodiments, when slide 106 includes a dual-part slide having rear component 136 and forward component 126, slide 106 may move rearward (e.g., linearly translate rearward) so that rear component 136 is displaced away from forward component 126. When slide 106 moves forward, rear component 136 moves forward (e.g., linearly translating forward in a direction opposite of directional arrow 2301) toward forward component 126. In some embodiments, rear component 136 may move rearward and forward (e.g., aft and fore) by linearly translating along and/or parallel to longitudinal axis A.

FIGS. 24A and 24B illustrate a cross-sectional view of racking slide 106 (e.g., rear component 136) as seen along the lines of the section 5-5 taken in FIG. 5 in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 24A shows slide 106 in a closed position (e.g., forwardmost position). In one or more embodiments, slide 106 includes extension member 170. In some embodiments, extension member 170 may include a spring-loaded screw (e.g., rod) extending from sliding rear component 136 into forward component 126.

In one or more embodiments, forward component 126 includes bore 1924 extending along longitudinal axis A of slide 106. As previously mentioned, extension member 170 may be secured to rear component 136 using various fastening techniques. For example, extension member 170 may include threaded interface 178 configured to be rotatably disposed within threaded receptacle 1912 of rear component 136. Extension member 170 may then extend from rear component 136 into bore 1924 of forward component 126. For example, extension member 170 may be secured to and configured to slide with rear component 136. Extension member 170 may at least partially extend into bore 1924 of forward component 126.

FIG. 24B shows slide 106 in the open position (e.g., rearmost position). A user may rack slide 106 by translating rear component 136 rearward. In some embodiments, recoil assembly 150 may push slide 106 (e.g., slide 106 as a whole or rear component 136) rearward during actuation to simulate a recoil of a firearm and a cycling of system 100, as previously discussed. In various embodiments, extension member 170 may be configured to compress spring 702 in response to the rearward sliding of rear component 136, as shown in FIG. 24B. In one or more embodiments, tension of spring 702 may be adjusted based on how deeply seated extension member is disposed within threaded receptacle 1912. For example, extension member 170 may be threadably attached to rear component 136 to selectively adjust a position of extension member 170 to adjust an amount of compression force experienced by the user during the rearward sliding of rear component 136. Head 712 of extension member 170 may include a slot or hole (e.g., hex key hole) configured to receive a tool that allows extension member 170 to be pushed/pulled or rotated, advancing or retreating threaded interface within threaded receptacle in response. In other embodiments, spring 702 may be interchangeable such that springs of varying stiffness and/or weight may be used to alter the feel (e.g., resistance) of slide 106 when a user translates slide 106 rearward, and to alter a speed at which slide 106 returns from the open position to closed position. Head 712 may be configured to bias spring 702 when the user manipulation translates rear component 136 rearward. In some embodiments, extension member 170 may include a screw. Additionally or alternatively, extension member 170 may include a rod. Extension member 170 may be any shape or length. For instance, extension member 170 may have a triangular, circular, rectangular, or polygonal cross-section.

In various embodiments, lower receiver 104 further includes a slide switch assembly 132 configured to transmit, in response to the user manipulation translating rear component 136 rearward or a cycling of system 100, a control signal associated with an operational status of system 100. System 100 may include a status indicator, which is configured to inform a user of an operational status of system 100. For instance, slide 106 may include status indicator 156. For example, status indicator 156 may be located on a recess shaped similar to an ejection port. In another instance, forward component 126 may include visible status indicator 156 disposed at least partially within slide 106 (e.g., front component). In some embodiments, operational status may include a fault mode of operation.

In various embodiments, slide switch assembly 132 may include slide switch 2704. When the user manipulation translates rear component 136 rearward, rear component 136 may displace slide switch 2704 of slide switch assembly 132 downward such that slide switch assembly 132 transmits the control signal associated with the operational status to logic device 152 in response.

FIG. 25 illustrates recoil assembly 150 of firearm training system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. System 100 may include simulated firearm housing 102 and recoil assembly 150, which may be disposed within housing 102. Recoil assembly 150 may include solenoid 502 and plunger 510. Plunger 510 may be disposed at least partially within solenoid 502. In various embodiments, plunger 510 may be actuated by trigger 110. For example, trigger 110, which extends from housing 102, may be configured to provide a control signal in response to being pulled rearward by a user of system 100 to actuate solenoid 502. In one or more embodiments, logic device 152 may be configured to actuate solenoid 502 in response to the control signal provided by pulling trigger 110. Recoil assembly 150 using solenoid 502 may reduce operation and/or manufacturing costs of system 100 and increase efficiency of operation of system 100. For instance, using solenoid 502 in recoil assembly 150 may allow for repeated use of recoil assembly 150 without requiring additional accessories, such as CO₂cartridges.

FIGS. 26A and 26B illustrate a perspective view of the firearm training system 100 with slide 106 removed for illustrative purposes, showing the actuation of recoil assembly 150 in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, plunger 510 may be configured to translate rearward, such as in the direction of arrow 2601, from a rest position (shown in FIG. 26A) to an actuated position (shown in FIG. 26B) along a longitudinal axis B of housing 102 to simulate a recoil associated with a discharge of a firearm in response to an actuation of solenoid 502.

In some embodiments, plunger 510 may be located primarily in lower receiver 104 (e.g., a frame of housing 102). When recoil assembly is at least partially disposed within lower receiver 104, a translation of plunger 510 in response to the actuation of solenoid 502 may impart a rearward force on lower receiver 104 of housing 102 to simulate the recoil. When disposed within lower receiver 104, plunger 510 may translate substantially parallel to longitudinal axis B of housing 102. Additionally or alternatively, recoil assembly 150 may be at least partially disposed within simulated slide 106 such that a translation of plunger 510 in response to the actuation of solenoid 502 by trigger 110 imparts a rearward force on slide 106 (e.g., rear component 136) to cause at least a portion of slide 106 to translate rearward relative to lower receiver 104. When disposed in within slide 106, plunger may translate substantially parallel to longitudinal axis A of slide 106.

In various embodiments, plunger 510 may be biased by spring 508 to return spring 508 and plunger 510 to the rest position. Spring 508 may vary in stiffness and/or weight to affect the speed at which plunger 510 returns to the rest position. Spring 508 may be configured to bias plunger 510 relative to solenoid 502. Spring 508 may be configured to compress in response to the actuation of solenoid 502 to return plunger 510 from the actuated position to the rest position. In some embodiments, solenoid 502 may include a plurality of turns (e.g., n turns) of wire 514 wrapped about a frame 504, as shown in FIG. 25. In some embodiments, solenoid may include a flat coil. In some embodiments, solenoid 502 may include a flat coil to conserve space within slide 106. In other embodiments, solenoid may include a round coil (e.g., circular coil).

Plunger 510 may include a proximal end disposed at least partially within solenoid 502 and a distal end extending from solenoid 502. Distal end may be configured to move toward solenoid 502 in response to the actuation of solenoid 502. For instance, when a current passes through solenoid 502 a generated magnetic field may pull plunger 510 rearward through an opening 1902 of solenoid 502 (as shown in FIG. 19A).

FIGS. 27-29 illustrate various views of slide switch assembly 132 of firearm training system 100 in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure. Lower receiver 104 may include slide switch assembly 132, which may be configured to transmit, in response to a user manipulation translating rear component 136 rearward (as discussed at least in FIGS. 23-24B) a control signal associated with an operational status of system 100.

Slide switch assembly 132 may include slide switch 2704, which includes a ramped surface 174, as shown in FIG. 28. Slide 106 may include a recessed surface 2702 (e.g., a cutout of an edge of slide 106) so that, when slide 106 is in a closed position (i.e. forwardmost position), slide 106 does not engage slide switch 2704 (e.g., push the slide switch downward). However, when slide 106 is in the open position (i.e. rearmost position, such as during a recoil simulation), a surface (e.g., edge) of slide 106 may engage a top surface 2706 of slide switch 2704, depressing slide switch 2704 downward, as discussed further in FIG. 30. In some embodiments, a ball bearing 148 (shown in FIG. 30), may be disposed within a hole 2710 (shown in FIG. 29) within top surface 2706 of slide switch 2704 and configured to abut slide 106 when moving rearward into the open position during recoil or racking of slide 106. Ball bearing 148 may prevent wear on top surface 2706 by slide 106, allowing edge of slide 106 to easily pass over top surface 2706 when translating rearward without scraping and/or marring top surface 2706. In some embodiments, slide switch 2704 may be shaped similar to a slide lever (e.g., slide stop).

FIG. 30 illustrates an actuation of slide switch assembly 132 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Slide switch assembly 132 may include slide switch 2704 having ramped surface 174. Slide switch assembly 132 may further include pin 190 having a complementary ramped surface 3002. In various embodiments, pin 190 may be substantially orthogonal to slide switch 2704. When the user manipulation translates rear component 136 rearward, rear component 136 may displace slide switch 300 downward (e.g., away from slide 106), as indicated by directional arrow 3001, such that ramped surface 174 abuts complementary ramped surface 3002 and moves pin 190 inward, as indicated by directional arrow 3003, relative to lower receiver 104 to transmit the control signal to logic device 152 (e.g., logic device 188). For example, when pin 190 is moved inward by the depression of slide switch 2704, surface 186 of pin 190 may bias a component (e.g., button or contact) of logic device 188 to generate a control signal. Slide switch assembly 132 may further include a spring 182 configured to compress when pin 190 is moved inward by slide switch 2704 and push pin 190 outward to return pin to an original position once slide 106 is no longer depressing slide switch 2704 downward.

FIGS. 31A-31F illustrate various views of grip switch 140 of firearm training system 100 in accordance with several embodiments of the present disclosure. Grip switch 140 may be configured to be positioned on grip 108 of lower receiver 104 of a firearm, such as a real firearm (e.g., a real pistol, a real rifle, a real shotgun, and/or the like) and/or a training firearm (e.g., a training pistol, a training rifle, and so on). Grip switch 140 may include a base 402 configured to be attached to grip 108. Base 402 may be various shapes, such as circular (e.g., annular or a ring), triangular, rectangular, and so on. For example, base 402 may include an annular base having a cavity configured to receive a button 404 of grip switch 140.

Base 402 may include a tab 416 configured to abut a fastener, such as screw 1042 (shown in FIG. 10), to secure base 402 to grip 108. In various embodiments, base 402 may include protrusions positioned about a side, or perimeter, of base 402 that are configured to prevent base from rotating within grip 108 and/or to further secure base 402 to grip 108.

In various embodiments, grip switch 140 may include a rear cover 408 to cover internal components of grip switch 140. Rear cover 408 may include one or more holes to allow, for example, posts 412 of grip switch 140 to extend therethrough.

Grip switch 140 may include button 404, which may be at least partially disposed within the cavity of base 402. Button 404 may be various shapes, such as circular, triangular, rectangular, and so on. In some embodiments, base 402 and button 404 may be similar shapes. In other embodiments, base 402 and button 404 may be complementary shapes. In other embodiments, base 402 and button 404 may be different shapes. Button 404 may be concentric to base 402 (e.g., share the same central axis). Button 404 may include one or more indents 406. As shown in FIGS. 31E and 31F, indent 406 may indicate an orientation of button 404 relative to base 402 and/or grip 108. For example, button 404 may be oriented in an unlocked position and a locked position, where indent 406 is orientated vertically when button 404 in the unlocked orientation and indent 406 may be orientated horizontally when button 404 is in the locked position, or vice versa.

Still referring to FIGS. 31E and 31F, in various embodiments, button 404 may be configured to rotate relative to base 402 between unlocked orientation 3130 and locked orientation 3140 in response to a first manipulation by a user. Button 404 may further be configured to depress relative to base 402 while in unlocked orientation 3130 to generate a control signal in response to a second manipulation by the user. Button 404 may be configured to prevent a depression relative to base 402 while in the locked orientation to prevent generation of the control signal in response to the second manipulation.

Base 402 may include a top surface having one or more recesses configured to receive a finger and/or an opposing thumb of a user to facilitate the first user manipulation. In some embodiments, button 404 may include surfaces and/or indents configured to allow a user to easily grip button 404 to move (e.g., rotate) button 404 between the locked position and unlocked position.

Depression of button 404 when in unlocked orientation 3130 may facilitate activation of one or more lighting devices (e.g., lighting device 122) of system 100, which are communicatively connected to grip switch 140 (e.g., via wires 1036 or via any type of wireless connection). Lighting device 122 may be implemented as a laser sight, weapon light (e.g., a rail mountable weapon light), and so on. In some embodiments, the control signal may be configured to activate lighting device 122 associated with a corresponding firearm, such as system 100. In various embodiments, the control signal may be configured to cause a logic device, such as logic device 152, associated with the firearm to activate lighting device 122. For example, when a user holds grip 108, button 404 may be depressed downward to activate a laser sight so that the user can see where the line of sight (e.g., where the gun is aimed) relative to a target. Grip switch 140 may be positioned on grip 108 so that a user naturally contacts grip switch (e.g., button 404) when holding grip 108, thus allowing for illumination to be instantly provided whenever a user handles the firearm.

As previously discussed, lighting device 122 may include a laser sight (as shown in FIGS. 1-9) configured to project a laser light onto a target when activated by the logic device 152. In some embodiments, the control signal is a first control signal and logic device 152 may be configured to cause the laser light to pulse in response to a second control signal generated in response to an actuation of trigger 110 of the firearm.

In some embodiments, system 100 may include a firearm, logic device 152, and laser sight, where the firearm may include a training pistol of a firearm training system (as shown in FIGS. 1-9), a training rifle of a firearm training system, a real pistol (e.g., live action pistol), a real rifle (e.g., live action rifle), and so on.

In some embodiments, grip switch 140 may be integrated within firearm (e.g., a real firearm or a training firearm, such a system 100). For example, grip switch 140 may be integrated with grip 108 of the firearm. As previously mentioned, grip switch 140 may be used with system 100 (e.g., a training pistol or a rifle of a firearm training system).

FIG. 32 illustrates a flowchart for a process of operating a recoil assembly, such as recoil assembly 150, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. For explanatory purposes, process 3200 is primarily described within this disclosure with reference to system 100 and its associated arrangement of components as described in FIGS. 1-31. However, process 3200 is not limited to such implementations. Any step, sub-step, sub-process, or block of process 3200 may be performed in an order or arrangement different from the embodiments illustrated in FIG. 32; some may be omitted, others may be added, and some may be performed simultaneously as appropriate.

As shown in block 3205, process 3200 includes pulling trigger 110, which may be operably linked to recoil assembly 150. For instance, a user may pull trigger 110 rearward such that trigger 110 pivots about pin 322, advancing sear bar 304 forward past sear ramp 318. In various embodiments, trigger 110 extends from housing 102 and may be configured to provide a control signal in response to the pulling of trigger 110 by the user of the system to actuate solenoid 502.

As shown in block 3210, process 3200 includes translating plunger 510 rearward from the rest position to the actuated position along and/or parallel to longitudinal axis B of housing 102 to simulate the recoil associated with a discharge of a firearm. In some embodiments, process 3200 may include actuating, by logic device 152, solenoid 502 in response to the control signal generated by the trigger actuation (e.g., pull). Plunger 510 may be translated rearward when solenoid 502 is actuated (e.g., a current is passed through solenoid 502), as previously discussed herein.

As shown in block 3215, process 3200 may include imparting a rearward force on housing 102 in response to the rearward translation. In some embodiments, the rearward force may be imparted on housing 102. In other embodiments, the rearward force may be imparted on slide 106 (e.g., rear component 136). In some embodiments, imparting the rearward force on slide 106 may cause slide 106 to translate backward, simulating a cycling of a slide of a real firearm, as previously discussed herein.

FIG. 33 illustrates a flowchart for a process of operating training magazine 120 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. For explanatory purposes, process 3300 is primarily described within this disclosure with reference to system 100 and its associated arrangement of components as described in FIGS. 1-32. However, process 3300 is not limited to such implementations. Any step, sub-step, sub-process, or block of process 3300 may be performed in an order or arrangement different from the embodiments illustrated in FIG. 33; some may be omitted, others may be added, and some may be performed simultaneously as appropriate.

As shown in block 3305, process 3300 includes selecting a mode of operation using one or more selectable switches 206 disposed on body 202. In one or more embodiments, magazine 120 includes one or more switches 206a-b (e.g., selectors) configured to alter the mode of operation of system 100 (e.g., logic device 152). A first switch may include magazine capacity switch 206a, where process 3200 further includes adjusting a number of rounds available during a training session managed by logic device 152 based on an actuation of switch 206a. A second switch may include fault switch 206b, where process 3200 further includes activating or deactivating a fault mode of operation of logic device 152 based on an actuation of switch 206b. Activating the fault mode of operation may include system 100 simulating a malfunction during a training session managed by logic device 152, as previously discussed herein.

As shown in block 3310, process 3300 includes inserting magazine 120 into magazine well 112. As previously discussed, training magazine 120 may include simulated magazine body 202, where process 3200 further includes receiving, by magazine well 112 of simulated firearm housing 102, magazine body 202. In some embodiments, magazine 120 includes power source 218, which may be disposed within body 202 and configured to power a component of firearm training system 100. In one or more embodiments, process 3300 may include interfacing, using first set 212a of one or more electrical contacts 212, with a first set 154a of one or more complementary electrical contacts 154 of magazine well 112 in response to an insertion of body 202 into magazine well 112 to pass electrical power from power source 218 to the component disposed within housing 102.

As shown in block 3315, process 3300 includes actuating trigger 110 of simulated firearm housing 102. Actuating trigger 110 may include the user pulling trigger 110 rearward relative to lower receiver 104, as previously described herein.

As shown in block 3320, process 3300 includes informing the user of the operational status of system 100 using visible status indicator 156. The operational status may include magazine capacity status, fault mode of operation, and/or power level status of power source 218. Informing the user of the operational status may include status indicator 156 providing a visual and/or audible signal. For example, status indicator 156 may blink (e.g., flash), illuminate and remain on until a user reacts, provides instructions (e.g., words or verbal instructions), and the like.

FIG. 34 illustrates a flowchart for a process of operating slide 106 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. For explanatory purposes, process 3400 is primarily described within this disclosure with reference to system 100 and its associated arrangement of components as described in FIGS. 1-33. However, process 3400 is not limited to such implementations. Any step, sub-step, sub-process, or block of process 3400 may be performed in an order or arrangement different from the embodiments illustrated in FIG. 34; some may be omitted, others may be added, and some may be performed simultaneously as appropriate.

As shown in block 3405, process 3400 includes translating rear component 136 of slide 106 rearward. In one or more embodiments, simulated slide 106 may include a dual-part slide having forward component 126 fixably secured to lower receiver 104, and rear component 136 slidably secured to lower receiver 104 and forward component 126. Simulated slide 106 may further include spring 702, where process 3400 further includes biasing, by spring 702, rear component 136 relative to forward component 126 and compressing in response to rearward sliding of rear component 136 by the user to rack slide 106 and thus simulate racking of a firearm.

As shown in block 3410, process 3400 includes releasing rear component 136 such that spring 702 advances rear component 136. Releasing rear component 136 may include biasing, by head 712 and rear component 136, spring 702 such that spring 702 expands, translating rear component 136 forward. In one or more embodiments, detection of the movement of rear component 136 may include rear component 136 interacting with slide switch assembly 132 to generate the control signal that is received by logic device 152, which may communicate the operational status of system 100, as previously described herein.

As shown in block 3415, process 3400 includes actuating trigger 110. Actuating trigger 110 may include pulling trigger 110, as described previously herein. In various embodiments, during a fault mode of operation, the user may not be able to actuate trigger 110 until slide 106 (e.g., rear component 136) is racked to simulate clearing the fault.

FIG. 35 illustrates a flowchart for a process of operating a grip switch in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. For explanatory purposes, process 3500 is primarily described within this disclosure with reference to system 100 and its associated arrangement of components as described in FIGS. 1-34. However, process 3500 is not limited to such implementations. Any step, sub-step, sub-process, or block of process 3500 may be performed in an order or arrangement different from the embodiments illustrated in FIG. 35; some may be omitted, others may be added, and some may be performed simultaneously as appropriate.

As shown in block 3505, process 3500 includes providing the first manipulation by the user. The first manipulation may include rotating button 404 relative to base 402 between unlocked orientation 3130 and locked orientation 3140 in response to the first manipulation by the user.

As shown in block 3510, process 3500 includes providing the second manipulation by the user. The second manipulation may include depressing button 404 relative to base 402 while in unlocked orientation 3130 to generate the control signal in response to the second manipulation by the user, and preventing a depression of button 404 relative to base 402 while in locked orientation 3140 to prevent generation of the control signal in response to the second manipulation.

As shown in block 3515, process 3500 includes selectively actuating light device 122. Process 3500 may include actuating lighting device 122 when button 404 is depressed relative to base 402 in response to the second manipulation. Lighting device 122 may include a flashlight. In other embodiments, lighting device 122 may include a laser device (e.g., laser sight) configured to project a laser light on a target, as previously discussed herein.

FIG. 36 illustrates a flowchart for a process 3600 of operating firearm training system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. For explanatory purposes, process 3600 is primarily described within this disclosure with reference to system 100 and its associated arrangement of components as described in FIGS. 1-35. However, process 3600 is not limited to such implementations. Any step, sub-step, sub-process, or block of process 3600 may be performed in an order or arrangement different from the embodiments illustrated in FIG. 36; some may be omitted, others may be added, and some may be performed simultaneously as appropriate.

As shown in block 3605, process 3600 includes selecting the mode of operation of system 100 (e.g., logic device 152). As shown in block 3610, process 3600 includes inserting magazine 120 into magazine well 112 of grip 108. As shown in block 3615, process 3600 includes translating rear component 136 rearward relative to lower receiver 104 to simulate racking a slide of a firearm. In some embodiments, racking slide 106 (e.g., rear component 136) may include actuating slide switch assembly 132. In one or more embodiments, an operational status may be based on one or more actuations of slide switch assembly 132. For example, actuating slide switch assembly 132 may be used to clear a fault or initiate a training session, as previously discussed herein. As shown in block 3620, process 3600 includes aiming lighting device 122, such as a projected laser for the laser sight, at a target. As shown in block 3625, process 3600 includes actuating trigger 110 by a user manipulation to simulate firing of a firearm. As previously mentioned, trigger group 130 may include an interchangeable trigger group so that a user may become familiar with operating various types of triggers created by various firearm manufacturers. Furthermore, the pull weight of trigger may be adjusted by the user, as previously discussed herein. In some embodiments, process 3600 may include an amplitude of the laser sight varying (e.g., transitioning between at least a first amplitude and a second amplitude) based on the actuation of trigger 110, as previously discussed herein. For example, in some embodiments, process 3600 may include actuating grip switch 140 so that the laser sight generates a light having a first amplitude, and actuating trigger 110 so that the laser sight generates the light at a second amplitude, indicating to the user that a simulated round has been fired. As shown in block 3630, process 3600 includes clearing a simulated fault if a fault mode of operation has been selected by a user using selector 206b.

Any step, sub-step, sub-process, or block of processes 3200-3600 may be combined and performed in an order or arrangement different from the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 32-36.

Embodiments are not limited to use in firearm training systems. Discussion herein of training systems and devices is by way of example only and not by way of limitation. Embodiments may be configured for use with training firearms, such as training rifles and pistols, and/or real firearms, such as real rifles and pistols. Indeed, embodiments may be used with any desired system. Thus, embodiments may provide training components for a variety of different applications.

Where applicable, various embodiments provided by the present disclosure can be implemented using hardware, software, or combinations of hardware and software. Also, where applicable, the various hardware components and/or software components set forth herein can be combined into composite components comprising software, hardware, and/or both without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Where applicable, the various hardware components and/or software components set forth herein can be separated into sub-components comprising software, hardware, or both without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. In addition, where applicable, it is contemplated that software components can be implemented as hardware components, and vice versa.

Software in accordance with the present disclosure, such as non-transitory instructions, program code, and/or data, can be stored on one or more non-transitory machine-readable mediums. It is also contemplated that software identified herein can be implemented using one or more general purpose or specific purpose computers and/or computer systems, networked and/or otherwise. Where applicable, the ordering of various steps described herein can be changed, combined into composite steps, and/or separated into sub-steps to provide features described herein.

The foregoing description is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms or particular fields of use disclosed. Embodiments described above illustrate but do not limit the invention. It is contemplated that various alternate embodiments and/or modifications to the present invention, whether explicitly described or implied herein, are possible in light of the disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is defined only by the following claims.

FIREARM TRAINING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

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