Embodiments of the invention generally relate to devices, systems, and methods for simulating the operation and effect of various weapons, especially explosive weapons, during military training exercises. More particularly, the invention relates to devices, systems and methods for simulating the operation and effect of weapons such as rocket propelled grenades (RPG's) in a laser-based battle simulation environment
At present, in live battlefield military operations in areas such as the Middle East, opposing forces using weapons such as the rocket-propelled-grenade (RPG) are presenting a significant threat to U.S. military forces stationed there. In an RPG weapon, a relatively small rocket charge is mounted in a tube, together with a grenade, which can then be aimed and launched at a target. One example of a commercially available RPG device is the RPG-7, which has been manufactured in a number of countries, including Russia and various Eastern European countries such as Romania, over its forty-plus year history.
With the RPG 2, launch of the grenade 8 is typically via a gunpowder booster charge (not visible in
Although the RPG 2 generally won't travel as far as a larger rocket, the RPG 2 is far more portable (it can be held over a shoulder), lightweight, simple to use (literally “point and shoot”) and, unlike indirect weapons such as mortar, can be more directly aimed at a target, to produce damage essentially equivalent to a stick of dynamite detonated at the target location. Further, because the blast radius of anti-armor round fired by an RPG 2 is around 4 to 8 meters, personnel and/or equipment in proximity to an RPG blast will still experience significant negative effects from it. For example, personnel may experience effects such as temporary deafness and blindness from an RPG blast even if such persons are not permanently harmed or killed by the blast.
Because the RPG 2 is so simple to use, effective, damaging, and widely available, it has become the weapon of choice for many forces around the world, including many guerilla armies and insurgents hostile to U.S. interests. Consequently, the U.S. military has great interest in training its personnel to deal with military combat situations in which RPGs may be used.
One way that the U.S. military trains its forces to deal with various military combat situations is using laser-based combat simulation systems. Such laser-based systems have been developed to simulate military combat situations without actually having to fire live ammunition. These systems use relatively low power lasers and matched detectors for indicating when a “hit” has occurred. One such system is the Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement Systems, referred to as the MILES system. Military forces in the U.S. and around the world have found MILES to be an important tool to help soldiers and others learn combat survival skills and evaluate battle outcomes, and MILES training has been proven to dramatically increase the combat readiness and fighting effectiveness of military forces.
An illustrative implementation of MILES uses so-called eye-safe “laser bullets,” combined with the use of laser sensitive detectors, to simulate battlefield situations. Each individual and vehicle in the training exercise has a detection system to sense hits and perform casualty assessment. For example, as part of an exemplary MILES event, some soldiers are equipped with one or more laser detectors (e.g., an optical detector) capable of receiving a coded laser signal or pulse that has been fired, and these laser detectors can be attached to the soldier himself, to a vehicle the solder is riding on or in, or to any other location proximate to a target of interest. Other soldiers are equipped with laser transmitters capable of “shooting” coded laser signals and/or pulses of infrared energy. These laser transmitters can be readily attached to and detached from any location, person, or thing (e.g., vehicle mounted weapons, hand carried weapons, vehicles, tanks, etc.). In some implementations, one or more of the coded laser signals and/or pulses are modulated to indicate the type of weapon that is the source of the laser beam; and a soldier identification number may also be included in the transmitted signal.
When the laser sensitive detectors receive the coded laser signal/pulse(s), one or more MILES decoders determine whether the target was hit and, if so, whether the “laser bullet” was accurate enough to cause damage (e.g., a casualty). This determination can be made in various ways, such as by whether the coded signals/pulses exceed a threshold, whether the coded signals/pulses actually hit its intended target, and the like. In some implementations, the target (and/or the shooter) can be made aware almost instantly of the accuracy of a simulated shot, such as by audible alarms, visible displays, pyrotechnics, and the like, where these indicators can designate a hit or near miss and also help to provide realism for the soldiers.
In more recent implementations of MILES, all action by shooters and targets (deemed “players”) is recorded during a simulated event, so that a so-called After Action Review (AAR) can occur later, to review the effectiveness of the weapons and/or of the defenses against them. For example, one implementation of AAR allows commanders to process, format and view engagement data collected during an exercise, for review after the exercise. In addition, exercise data can be archived for future use, such as to provide additional training for military forces.
The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of one or more aspects of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention, and is neither intended to identify key or critical elements of the invention, nor to delineate the scope thereof. Rather, the primary purpose of the summary is to present some concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
In one embodiment, to help mitigate the threat of devices such as RPGs, the invention provides a surrogate training device simulating an RPG, where the training device is usable with a laser-based system such as the MILES system. The surrogate training device, which simulates the RPG (minus the launch of an actual grenade at a target) provides a simulation of predetermined characteristics of the RPG, such as the aesthetics (e.g., “look and feel”), weight, appearance, and physical features, such as the muzzle flash (e.g., an incandescent flash at a weapon muzzle following departure of the arms being used, which can be caused be the ignition of oxygen, the expulsion of burning powder grains and the expansion of powder gasses), smoke trail and sounds that occur when a grenade is launched from an actual RPG.
In one embodiment, the invention provides a rocket propelled grenade (RPG) simulation device usable with a laser detector, the RPG simulation device comprising a laser transmitter, a switch, a controller, and a housing. The laser transmitter is capable of directing a laser signal to the laser detector, the laser signal comprising information readable by the laser detector, to simulate a launch of a rocket propelled grenade from the RPG simulation device to the laser detector. The switch permits a user to trigger a laser signal from the laser transmitter. The controller is in operable communication with the laser transmitter and the switch, and the controller is operable to respond to triggering of the switch and to simulate the launch of a rocket propelled grenade by directing the laser transmitter to generate and transmit a laser signal. The housing simulates at least one predetermined characteristic of an actual RPG device. The housing is constructed and arranged to house at least one element selected from the group consisting of the laser transmitter, the switch, and the controller.
The laser signal can comprise a pulse of laser energy. The RPG simulation device can further comprise an anti-tank weapons effect systems simulator (ATWESS) in operable communication with the controller, the ATWESS generating an indicator replicating a physical effect that occurs when an RPG launches a grenade. When the switch is triggered, the controller can command the ATWESS to generate the indicator replicating the physical effect. For example, the indicator can comprise at least one physical effect selected from the group consisting of a noise, a visual effect, a gaseous effect, muzzle flash, smoke, an audible effect, and a blast sound.
The RPG simulation device can further comprise a display in communication with the controller, wherein the display is constructed and arranged to display information related to operation of the RPG to an operator of the RPG. For example, the displayed information can comprise at least one piece of information selected from the group consisting of round count, player identification number, laser power level, rounds remaining, weapon type, and battery level. In addition, the RPG simulation device can include indicators capable of indicating to a user that a laser signal has been transmitted and/or capable of enabling alignment of the laser transmitter.
In one embodiment, the laser transmitter can transmit a laser signal encoded with a MILES code, such as a code recognizable by a MILES-type detector. In one embodiment, the controller can perform additional operations, such as one or more of tracking number of rounds fired; tracking a player identification number, tracking a power level of a laser signal emitted by the laser transmitter; tracking a battery level; generating a programmable hit and near miss word, adjusting a power level of the laser signal emitted by the laser transmitter; adjusting an alignment of the laser signal emitted by the laser transmitter; generating a signal to control the laser signal where the laser signal further comprises a MILES code; tracking MILES code related information in a laser signal that comprises a MILES code; receiving an instruction from an external system via a USB port; providing data to an external system via a USB port; providing information to a display; providing reverse voltage protection; responding to a controller key; responding to a push to read switch; responding to a magnetic switch; responding to a trigger switch; and responding to a safety switch.
In another embodiment, the invention provides a method for simulating operation of a rocket propelled grenade (RPG). A physical structure having at least one predetermined characteristic in common with an actual RPG is provided. A laser transmitter is coupled to the physical structure, the laser transmitter operable to direct a laser signal to a laser detector. A user-accessible control is provided on the physical structure. The laser transmitter is coupled to the user-accessible control so as to enable a user to transmit a laser signal towards a target to simulate launching an RPG at that target. In a further aspect, an anti-tank weapons effect system simulator (ATWESS) is provided, where the ATWESS is capable of generating an indicator simulating a physical effect that occurs when an actual RPG launches a grenade. In still a further aspect, the laser signal can be encoded with a MILES code.
In one aspect, a physical effect is generated when the laser signal is transmitted, the physical effect comprising at least one physical effect selected from the group consisting of sound, muzzle flash, smoke, visual effect, audio effect, and gaseous effect.
In another embodiment, the invention provides a system usable with a detector responsive to a laser signal for simulating the operation of a rocket propelled grenade (RPG) device. The system comprises means for enabling a user to trigger a simulated launch of a grenade from the RPG device; means for directing a laser signal to the detector in response to the simulated launch trigger; and means for generating a physical indicator of the launch. In a further embodiment, the system further comprises means for simulating at least one predetermined characteristic associated with the operation of the RPG device, the at least one predetermined characteristic selected from the group consisting of sound, muzzle flash, smoke, weight, color, shape, housing material, length, range, visual effect occurring when weapon is fired, audio effect occurring when weapon is fired, and gaseous effect occurring when the weapon is fired.
Details relating to this and other embodiments of the invention are described more fully herein.
The advantages and aspects of the present invention will be more fully understood in conjunction with the following detailed description and accompanying drawings, wherein:
In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate like elements. The drawings are not to scale, emphasis instead being on illustrating the principles of the invention.
Throughout this document, the term “rocket propelled grenade” (RPG) is used to describe a particular type of weapon being simulated. However, those of skill in the art will recognize that at least some embodiments of the invention are equally applicable to weapons such as rifle-propelled grenades, light anti-tank weapons (LAWs), artillery, mortar, grenades, and rockets. For example, the physical appearance of the RPG simulation device can readily be adapted to match the physical appearance of a weapon such as rifle propelled grenade, light anti-tank weapon, etc., and the physical effects (e.g., sights and sounds) that occur when the respective weapon is used can also be incorporated as part of the simulation device. In addition, note that the term “rocket propelled grenade” is a term of art that refers at least to a weapon that launches a grenade using a rocket, and not merely to the grenade itself that is being launched.
Referring now to
Referring still to
As those of skill in the art will appreciate, a housing for the RPG simulation device 10 can be implemented in many different ways. For example, it could be made using a single tube, rather than front and back tubes, with multiple tubes, in fewer or more pieces than illustrated, etc.
The simulated grenade 12 includes one or more ribs 12C that help to strengthen the structure of the simulated grenade 12 and to also conform around the CCA housing assembly 14 portion of the RPG simulation device of
ATWESS simulation devices are available from various vendors, including Cubic Defense Systems of San Diego, Calif. In one embodiment, the ATWESS assembly 24 and blast shield 26 are substantially the same as those used on the simulated VIPER device used with the MILES system.
The ATWESS assembly 24 includes an ATWESS breech lock lever 49 (to lock the ATWESS cartridge cover) and an ATWESS safety lever 46 that must be pulled to arm the ATWESS. The blast shield 26 is provided to protect the operator and to collimate the blast from the ATWESS assembly 24 to reduce the likelihood injury to nearby personnel.
Although the functions of the front grip assembly 28 and rear grip assembly 30 could be implemented in a single grip, it is advantageous if they are provided as part two separate grips to ensure that an operator has both hands on the RPG simulation device 10 when using it, to improve safe use of the RPG simulation device 10.
In at least some embodiments, the LCD housing assembly 32 includes a so-called Picatinny mounting rail 70 (i.e., a bracket used on some firearms to provide a standardized mounting for accessories such as the field viewing scope 19; such a bracket can be provided in accordance with MIL-STD-1913, first published by the U.S. Picatinny Arsenal). Picatinny rails are available from numerous suppliers, including Centurion Tactical Systems of Layton Utah.
The following modes of operation are provided by way of example and are not limiting.
To put the RPG simulation device 10 in “Dry Fire” mode, assuming a battery 65 is installed into the rear grip 30, the green master key is then inserted into the controller key receptacle switch 36 and turned to the “set” position 36A, and then the green master key is then turned to position 3 (36B in
Optionally, the operator of the RPG simulator device 10 may wear a harness or vest equipped with a laser detector assembly and alarm and which also includes a similar controller key receptacle switch 36. The laser detector can, for example, be a detector usable with a MILES-type of system. If a MILES-equipped weapon fires a laser signal at the operator of the RPG simulator device 10, one of two results may occur: if it is a “near miss” the alarm on the harness sounds for one second; if it is a “hit”, the alarm sounds continuously and the operator has been “killed”. The operator's yellow weapon key can be removed from the RPG simulator device 10 and inserted into the controller key receptacle switch 36 (on the harness) to shut off the alarm. In one embodiment, only the green master key can perform a system reset on the RPG simulator device 10 (which provides for a new set of rounds).
To put the RPG simulation device 10 in “ATWESS” mode, assuming a battery 65 is installed in the rear grip 30, the green master key is then inserted into the controller key receptacle switch 36 and turned to the “set” position 36A, and then the green master key is then turned to position 4 (36C in
Operation of the RPG simulator device 10 in ATWESS mode is similar to operation in DRY FIRE mode, except that in ATWESS mode, an operator cannot fire the laser transmitter unless an ATWESS cartridge is loaded and the ATWESS safety lever 46 is in the ARMED position. The operator ensures that the backblast area near the blast shield 26 is clear, and centers the target (e.g. via field viewing scope 19). The target is tracked, and the operator then fires at the target, pressing and holding the safety switch 42 first and then the pressing the trigger switch 34. In one embodiment, the operator can fire a round every 10 seconds, for up to four rounds, with each round using its own ATWESS cartridge. After the firing, an operator can check the “Rounds Remaining” by depressing the push to read switch 82, and a displayed rounds counter will show rounds remaining. When the round is fired, the ATWESS provides an audible sound equivalent to the sound a real round would make, as well as a blast of smoke similar to that produced during the firing of a “real” rocket propelled grenade.
The CCA 80 is further interconnected with (and responsive to) the trigger switch 34 on the front grip assembly 28, as well as to a safety switch 42 on the rear grip assembly 30. The trigger switch 34 and safety switch 42 can be used independently of each other or in conjunction with each other, depending on the mode of operation of the RPG simulation device 10, as described above. In one embodiment, the RPG simulation device 10 will only fire (in either mode) if the safety switch 42 is pressed and held first and then the trigger switch 34 is pressed. The mode of operation of the RPG simulation device 10 is set via the weapon switch 36, which, in one embodiment, can be controlled or set via a removable weapon switch key 36A (e.g., the controller green key described previously). The CCA 80 communicates with and controls the ATWESS assembly 24, in response to inputs at the trigger switch 34 and safety switch 42.
The CCA 80 monitors the terminals 44 of battery 65, to monitor the battery voltage and provide a “low battery” indicator on LCD display 78 of the LCD assembly 32. The CCA 80 is responsive to the push to read switch 82 and provides a signal to the LED indicator 81.
The outputs of the CCA 80 include a signal controlling the ATWESS 24, signals to the display 80 and the LED fire indicator 81, data to the USB port 55, and the signals directed to the dual function laser tube 120 to energize a laser diode (not visible in the Figure) in the dual function laser tube 120, so as to cause the RPG simulation device 10 to emit a laser beam (either the MILES laser 106 or an alignment laser 114) towards a given target.
The CCA 80 itself includes functionality providing weapons effect simulation control 200 (to control the ATWESS 24), weapon round count 202 (where the round count can relate to a specific weapon type via the weapon type control 204), signals to control the laser diode 206, signals to control the laser power level adjustment 208 (including hit and near miss laser power level adjustment), signals to control alignment 210, signals to control the display 212 (including display of PID, rounds remaining, weapon type, and battery low indicators), capability to track up to 5280 player identification codes (PID) (e.g., Enhanced MILES PID), encoding all existing MILES codes 216, providing reverse voltage protection 216, monitoring battery power 220, and tracking player identification (PID) (e.g., via a 5280 Enhanced PID).
The first laser tube 100 is the MILES laser tube and includes laser transmitter/laser diode that emits a laser beam when energized (such as when an operator presses the trigger switch 34 to cause the CCA 80 to generate a signal to energize the laser transmitter). In one embodiment, the laser transmitter uses a so-called MOCVD (metal organic chemical vapor deposition) type of laser, which is an infra-red, non-visible laser, available from Laser Diode, Inc., of Edison, N.J.
The second laser tube 110 includes a laser transmitter (not visible in
In describing the embodiments of the invention illustrated in the figures, specific terminology (e.g., language, phrases, product brands names, etc.) is used for the sake of clarity. These names are provided by way of example only and are not limiting. The invention is not limited to the specific terminology so selected, and each specific term at least includes all grammatical, literal, scientific, technical, and functional equivalents, as well as anything else that operates in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. For example, although particular materials (e.g., aluminum, polycarbonate, etc.) are described as being used in various embodiments to construct aspects of the RPG simulation device, those of skill in the art will recognize that numerous other materials could work equally well. Furthermore, in the illustrations, Figures, and text, specific names may be given to specific features, processes, military programs, etc. Such terminology used herein, however, is for the purpose of description and not limitation.
Although the invention has been described and pictured in a preferred form with a certain degree of particularity, it is understood that the present disclosure of the preferred form, has been made only by way of example, and that numerous changes in the details of construction and combination and arrangement of parts may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
In the Figures of this application, in some instances, a plurality of system elements may be shown as illustrative of a particular system element, and a single system element or may be shown as illustrative of a plurality of a particular system elements. It should be understood that showing a plurality of a particular element is not intended to imply that a system or method implemented in accordance with the invention must comprise more than one of that element, nor is it intended by illustrating a single element that the invention is limited to embodiments having only a single one of that respective elements. In addition, the total number of elements shown for a particular system element is not intended to be limiting; those skilled in the art can recognize that the number of a particular system element can, in some instances, be selected to accommodate the particular user needs.
In addition, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be modified to accommodate and/or comply with changes and improvements in the applicable technology and standards referred to herein. Variations, modifications, and other implementations of what is described herein can occur to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention as claimed.
The particular combinations of elements and features in the above-detailed embodiments are exemplary only; the interchanging and substitution of these teachings with other teachings in this and the referenced patents/applications are also expressly contemplated. As those skilled in the art will recognize, variations, modifications, and other implementations of what is described herein can occur to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention as claimed. Accordingly, the foregoing description is by way of example only and is not intended as limiting. The invention's scope is defined in the following claims and the equivalents thereto.
Having described and illustrated the principles of the technology with reference to specific implementations, it will be recognized that the technology can be implemented in many other, different, forms, and in many different environments. The technology disclosed herein can be used in combination with other technologies. Having described the preferred embodiments of the invention, it will now become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that other embodiments incorporating their concepts may be used. These embodiments should not be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but rather should be limited only by the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/643,701 entitled “Rocket Propelled Grenade, Variant II” filed Jan. 13, 2005, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
This invention was made with Government support under Contract N61339-00-D-0001 with the Department of the Navy. The Government has certain rights in this invention.
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