Multi-band interrogation signals

Abstract

A system and method for preventing friendly fire incidents comprising operating a transceiver of a friendly receiving unit in low-power standby mode, transmitting an omnidirectional low-band wake-up signal from a transceiver of a firing unit, transitioning the receiving unit from low-power standby mode to high-power standby mode upon receipt of the low-band wake-up signal, transmitting a directional high-band signal from the firing unit along a line of fire (LOF); and controlling at least one of a warning output or a firing interlock based on whether a high-band response signal from the receiving unit, a low-band response signal from the receiving unit or no signal from the receiving unit is received by the firing unit.

Description

[0001] MULTI BAND INTERROGATION SIGNALS

[0002] RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 715,664 filed on 4 November, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0004] FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a multi-band interrogation signal system and method and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to prevent friendly fire incidents.

[0006] United States Patent Publication No. 2015 / 0341879 appears to disclose, “Power consumption in a receiving device is avoided by receiving packets from a transmitting device in a first band of frequencies (such as around 60 GHz) and providing acknowledgments in a second band of frequencies that is different than the first band of frequencies (such as around 5 GHz). These out-of-band acknowledgments may allow the receiving device to avoid transmissions in the first band of frequencies and the associated power consumption. Moreover, the transmissions by the transmitting device in the first band of frequencies and the second band of frequencies may be synchronized so that packets are transmitted in the first band of frequencies when transmission in the second band of frequencies is enabled. In these ways, this communication technique may improve the performance of the transmitting device and the receiving device.”

[0007] Chinese Patent No. 105338486 appears to disclose, “A long-range power-efficient multiple-band identification system and method includes, for example, a base-station control module and paired electronic key fob. The base-station control module and paired electronic key fob is arranged to provide a UHF (ultra-high frequency) wake-up transmitter for transmitting a wakeup signal in a UHF frequency range to the paired electronic key. When in range, the electronic key is awakened by the wakeup signal and in response transmits an acknowledgment reply to the base-station control module. After receiving the acknowledgment, the base-station control module transmits a relatively high-power localization signal for determining an electronic key location.” Additional art includes United States Patent No. 8,269,684, United States Patent No. 9,454,683, United States Patent No. 9,116,236, United States Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0050088, Russian Patent No. 2497145, and United States Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0102582.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a system and method to prevent friendly fire incidents.

[0009] DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced. In the drawings:

[0011] Fig. 1 : A flow diagram describing use of a multi-band interrogation signal system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0012] Fig. 2: A block diagram describing a multi-band interrogation signal system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0013] Figs. 3A-B: Schematic diagrams illustrating a multi-band interrogation signal system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0014] Figs. 4A-B: Schematic diagrams illustrating a multi-band interrogation signal system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0015] Fig. 5: A schematic diagram illustrating use of a multi-band interrogation signaling system to prevent a friendly fire incident, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0016] Fig. 6: A flow diagram describing use of a multi-band interrogation signal system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0017] Fig. 7: A block diagram describing a multi-band interrogation signal system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0018] Fig. 8: A block diagram describing a multi-band interrogation signal system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0019] Fig. 9: A block diagram describing a system for identifying a friendly unit in a line of fire, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0020] A system of one or more computers can be configured to perform particular operations or actions by virtue of having software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of them installed on the system that in operation causes or cause the system to perform the actions. One or more computer programs can be configured to perform particular operations or actions by virtue of including instructions that, when executed by data processing apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform the actions.

[0021] In one general aspect, the method may include operating a friendly receiving unit in low- power standby mode. The method may also include transmitting an omnidirectional wake-up signal receivable by said receiving unit while said receiving unit is in said standby mode. The method may furthermore include receiving said wake-up signal by said receiving unit. The method may in addition include transitioning the receiving unit from low-power standby mode to high- power standby mode in response to said receiving of said wake-up signal. The method may moreover include transmitting a directional signal along a line of fire (LOF) where said directional signal is receivable by said receiving unit in said high power standby mode and is not receivable by said receiving unit in said low power standby mode. The method may also include receiving of said directional signal by said receiving unit. The method may furthermore include responding to receiving said directional signal via said receiving unit by transmitting a warning signal. The method may in addition include triggering at least one of a warning output or a firing interlock based on receiving said warning signal. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of the methods.

[0022] Implementations may include one or more of the following features. The method where said omnidirectional wake-up signal is a low-band signal. The method where said directional signal is a high-band signal. The method where said warning signal is a high-band signal. The method may include transmitting a low-band response signal from the receiving unit upon receipt of the wake-up signal. The method where receiving a low-band response signal from the receiving unit indicates that the receiving unit is nearby. The method may include triggering a warning output when the receiving unit is determined to be nearby. The method further where said transmitting a warning signal includes transmitting a directional high-band response signal from the receiving unit along a direction of the received signal. The method where receiving a high-band response signal from the receiving unit indicates that the receiving unit is in the line of fire. The method where not receiving a response signal from the receiving unit indicates that the receiving unit is not in the line of fire. The method may include firing on an enemy position without fear of firing on the receiving unit. The method may include transmitting said directional signal after a predetermined wake-up interval after transmitting said wake-up signal. The method where directional signal detection and a response time are bounded within the predetermined wake-up interval. The method may include authenticating the response signal from the receiving unit. The method may include inhibiting firing unless authentication succeeds. The method where the transmitting the response signal from the receiving unit includes transmitting device identifiers and authentication tags. The method where inhibiting firing is by a grip safety, trigger safety, magazine disconnect safety, firing pin block, hammer block, drop safety, rotary safety, sliding tang safety, cross-bolt safety, half-cock safety, or a combination thereof. The method may include timeouts and randomized back-off. The method may include returning the receiving unit from high-power standby mode to low-power standby mode in the absence of receipt of the directional signal. The method where the warning output is audible, visual, haptic or a combination thereof. Non - transitory computer - readable medium when executed by control circuitry of a firing unit and a receiving unit. Implementations of the described techniques may include hardware, a method or process, or a computer tangible medium.

[0023] In one general aspect, system may include a low-band transceiver configured for omnidirectional transmission and reception. System may also include a high-band transceiver configured for unidirectional transmission and reception along a line of fire (LOF). System may furthermore include control circuitry. System may in addition include characterized by the friendly receiving unit is configured to: operate in a low-power standby mode; transition from the low- power standby mode to a high-power standby mode upon receiving an omnidirectional wake-up signal; detect and receive an unidirectional signal when in the high-power standby mode; and transmit a warning signal in response to receiving the unidirectional signal; and the firing unit is configured to: transmit an omnidirectional wake-up signal receivable by the friendly receiving unit in the low-power standby mode; transmit an unidirectional signal along a line of fire (LOF), which is configured to be receivable by the friendly receiving unit when it is in the high-power standby mode; receive the warning signal transmitted by the friendly receiving unit; trigger at least one of a warning output or a firing interlock mechanism based on receiving the warning signal, thereby preventing the firing unit from firing on the friendly receiving unit. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of the methods.

[0024] Implementations may include one or more of the following features. System where said omnidirectional wake-up signal is a low-band signal. System where said unidirectional signal is a high-band signal. System where said warning signal is a high-band signal. System where the low- band transceiver is configured to operate in a sub-GHz frequency band. System where the high- band transceiver is configured to operate with a frequency ranging between 60 GHz to 100 GHz. System where the high-band transceiver is aligned with the line of fire. System where the response signal includes device identifiers and authentication tags. System where the control circuitry is configured to inhibit firing unless authentication succeeds. System where the control circuitry is configured to inhibit firing unless authentication fails. System where firing is inhibited by a grip safety, trigger safety, magazine disconnect safety, firing pin block, hammer block, drop safety, rotary safety, sliding tang safety, cross-bolt safety, half-cock safety, or a combination thereof. System where the control circuitry is configured for timeouts and randomized back-off. System where the control circuitry of the receiving unit is configured to return from high-power standby mode to low-power standby mode in the absence of receipt of one or more of a high-band signal, a wake-up signal, a low band signal and a LoF signal. System where a high-band signal detection and a response time are bounded within a predetermined wake-up interval. System where at least one transceiver of the system is mounted to at least one of a vehicle, weapons platform, tactical chest rig, harness, body armor, hunting vest, paramedic uniform, bunker gear, helmet, weapon, pack, molle pouch, a weapon, a supply base, staging stations, medical facilities, base camps, or a combination thereof. System where at least one transceiver of the system is mounted to a revolver, pistol, hunting rifle, assault rifle, sniper rifle, automatic, semiautomatic, carbines, machine gun, submachine gun, shotgun, grenade launcher, rocket launcher, cannon, mortar, tank, drone, aircraft, or a combination thereof. System where the friendly receiving unit is a person, object or force serving on the same team, a protected individual, a protected object, a party allied to, fighting towards the same goal as, or on the same side as a firing unit, neutral infrastructure, neutral individuals, or a combination thereof. System where the warning is audible, visual, haptic or a combination thereof. Implementations of the described techniques may include hardware, a method or process, or a computer tangible medium.

[0025] In one general aspect, system may include a transmitter of wake-up signal. System may also include a firing unit transceiver including a transmitter of an unidirectional LOF signal. System may furthermore include a friendly unit transceiver having a low power standby mode where the friendly unit transceiver receives said wake up signal but does not receive said LOF signal, a high-power standby mode where the friendly unit transceiver receives said LOF signal, said friendly unit transceiver configured to switch from said low power standby mode to said high power standby mode in response to said wake up signal and a transmitter for a transmitting warning signal in response to receiving said LOF signal and where said firing unit transceiver includes a receiver for said warning signal. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of the methods.

[0026] Implementations may include one or more of the following features. System where said wake up transmitter is included in said firing unit transceiver. System where the wake-up signal is omnidirectional. System where said transmitter of said wake up signal is a fire control transmitter. System where said firing unit transmitter receives said wake up signal and a firing unit initiates a firing sequence in response to receiving said wake up signal. System where said firing unit interrupts said firing sequence in response to receiving said warning signal. System where interrupting said firing sequence includes at least one of outputting a warning and activating a firing interlock mechanism thereby preventing the firing unit from firing on the friendly unit. System where said low power standby mode is configured to be maintained by a low-band receiver of said friendly unit transceiver. System where said high power mode is configured to be maintained by a high-band receiver of said friendly unit transceiver. System where said wake up signal is a low-band signal. System where said LOF signal is a high-band signal. System where the friendly unit transceiver and firing unit transceiver each includes a FMCW radar and / or FMCW lidar. System where said warning signal includes device identifiers and authentication tags. System where said firing unit transceiver is configured to inhibit firing based on receipt of said warning signal. System where said friendly unit transceiver is configured to transmit a low-band response signal and / or a high-band response signal upon receipt of said LOF signal. System where said firing unit transceiver includes control circuitry configured to present a warning to an user when a friendly device is determined to be in the line of fire based on receipt of said warning signal. System where said firing unit transceiver is configured to transmit a directional signal along the line of fire after transmitting of said wake up signal. Implementations of the described techniques may include hardware, a method or process, or a computer tangible medium.

[0027] DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a multi-band interrogation signal system and method and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to prevent friendly fire incidents.

[0029] DEFINITIONS

[0030] The terms "friend" or "friendly forces" or “friendly unit” or a “protected unit” may be defined herein as a person, object and / or force serving on the same team, a protected individual (e.g., a fellow hunter, a ranger in a hunting range, dog, a team member, etc.), a protected object (e.g., a police vehicle, an ambulance, vehicle belonging to a party allied to a firing unit, first responder, supply base, temporary base, staging area, base camp, etc.), a party allied to, fighting towards the same goal as or on the same side as a firing unit, (e.g., a soldier, team, unit, battalion, etc. belong to the same fighting force, such as an army, navy, air force, police unit, etc.). Protected units may include neutral infrastructure (e.g., a hospital, an ambulance, a food supply truck, neutral observers, medical personnel, first responders, etc.) and / or neutral individuals (e.g., a reporter, a policeman, civilian, etc.).

[0031] The terms "enemy" or "enemy forces" may be defined herein as a legitimate target of a weapon (e.g., including an animal being hunted) and / or an object that needs to be targeted (e.g., a runaway vehicle and / or a vehicle entering a protected area without permission) and / or a person and / or force fighting towards a different and / or opposed goal or on a different side, e.g., a soldier, team, unit, battalion, etc. belong to an opposing fighting force, such as an army, navy, air force, terrorist unit, criminal group, and / or infrastructure serving an enemy etc.

[0032] The term "friendly fire" may be defined herein as a case of mistaken identity wherein a firing unit (e.g., a unit firing a weapon) fires on a friend and / or force fighting on the same side mistakenly fires on an ally, a protected individual, a person and / or force fighting on the same side believing that person and / or force is a legitimate target (e.g., belongs to the enemy). The term "weapon" may be defined herein as a device capable of causing destruction along a line of fire (LOF), for example, a weapon may direct an energy beam (e.g., a laser), direct plasma (e.g., a flame thrower), fire a projectile (e.g., revolver, pistol, hunting rifle, assault rifle, sniper rifle, automatic, semiautomatic, carbines, machine gun, submachine gun, shotgun, grenade launcher, rocket launcher, torpedo launcher, cannon, mortar, tank, drone, aircraft, etc.)

[0033] The term ’’firing unit” may be defined herein as a unit intending to fire a weapon and / or planning the firing of a weapon and / or testing the safety of firing a weapon.

[0034] The terms “line of fire” or “LOF” may be defined herein as the intendent path of destruction and / or damage, e.g., the trajectory or path of a projectile from a firearm or missile, indicating the direction an object will travel.

[0035] The term “field of fire” may be defined herein as the specific area an individual weapon or a group of weapons can effectively cover and engage from a given position.

[0036] The term “omnidirectional signal” as used herein may relate to an electromagnetic signal that is radiated relatively uniformly in all directions.

[0037] The terms “unidirectional” and “directional signal” are used herein interchangeably and may relate to an electromagnetic signal that is deliberately concentrated and transmitted primarily in one specific direction or within a narrow angular range. The signal's power is concentrated into a narrow "beam" or cone, resulting in a higher effective signal strength (gain) in that specific direction compared to the same signal broadcast omnidirectionally.

[0038] As used herein, the term “high-band” may relate to high frequency (HF) wave or optical carrier frequencies of used for radar and / or lidar 60 GHz to 100 GHz.

[0039] As used herein, the term “medium-band” may relate to medium frequency (MF) wave radar / lidar carrier frequencies of 1 GHz to 60 GHz.

[0040] As used herein, the term “low-band” may relate to low frequency (LF) wave radar and / or lidar carrier frequencies which are sub-GHz (e.g., 300 kHz to 2 GHz).

[0041] As used herein, the term “moving search window” may relate to a receiver procedure that sweeps frequency and / or offset to acquire a peer’s narrowband despite unknown clock and / or offset.

[0042] As used herein, the term “offset search window” may relate to a sweep of receiver mixing conditions configured to accept a peer chirp with a frequency / time offset within a selected range of frequencies, ±Af. As used herein, the terms “wideband” and “narrowband” may refer to the communication band before and after acquisition, respectively.

[0043] As used herein, the term “wake-up interval” may relate to a specific, pre-determined period of time during which a device, often a low-power device and / or battery-operated device, "wakes up" from a sleep state or standby mode to perform a specific task. This process may be a key part of a power-saving strategy.

[0044] As used herein, the term “sweep signal” may refer to a signal that changes frequency over time within a specific bandwidth. As used herein, the term “chirp signal” may refer to a type of sweep signal in which the frequency increases or decreases with time. In some sources, the term “chirp” is used interchangeably with “sweep signal”, and is a standard in spreadspectrum communications, sonar, radar, and laser systems.

[0045] As used here, a penetrating signal refers an electromagnetic wave that can pass through obstacles such as walls, buildings, or other materials with low attenuation. For example, a penetrating signal may include a signal on a penetrating band. For example, penetrating bands typically have lower frequencies than non-penetrating bands. Lower frequency signals tend to travel through various mediums with less loss of strength than higher frequency signals. Penetrating signals and / or bands are often used in applications where it is necessary to detect or communicate through barriers, such as in underground communication, medical imaging, or through-wall radar systems.

[0046] As used here, a non-penetrating signal is an electromagnetic wave that is significantly attenuated or blocked by obstacles such as walls, buildings, or other materials. These signals often user non-penetrating bands. Non-penetrating band generally have higher frequencies, which are more likely to be absorbed or reflected by the materials they encounter. Non-penetrating signals are used in applications where line-of-sight communication is desired, such as in high-frequency radar systems, satellite communications, and certain wireless networking technologies.

[0047] As used here, low attenuation refers to the minimal reduction in signal strength as an electromagnetic wave travels through a medium. Signals with low attenuation maintain their power and integrity over longer distances and / or through various materials. Low attenuation may be a desirable characteristic in communication systems, as it facilitates reliable signal transmission and reception. As used here, diffraction is the bending of electromagnetic waves around obstacles and the spreading of waves as they pass through narrow openings. This phenomenon may occur when the wavelength of the signal is comparable to the size of the obstacle or opening. Diffraction allows signals to propagate beyond line-of-sight and can be utilized to enhance signal coverage in complex environments.

[0048] As used here, reflection is the phenomenon where an electromagnetic wave bounces off a surface or obstacle, changing its direction of propagation. Reflective surfaces can cause signals to travel along multiple paths, leading to multipath propagation. Reflection is a critical consideration in radar and communication systems, as it can affect signal quality and accuracy.

[0049] As used here, multipath refers to the propagation of electromagnetic waves along multiple paths due to reflection, diffraction, and scattering. Multipath signals can interfere with each other, causing signal fading, distortion, and reduced accuracy in measurements. Understanding and mitigating multipath effects may improve functioning of radar, wireless communication, and / or navigation systems.

[0050] Diffraction plays a significant role in the propagation of penetrating signals, allowing them to bend around obstacles and spread through narrow openings. This phenomenon enhances the coverage and reliability of LF signals in complex environments. Conversely, HF signals are less affected by diffraction due to their shorter wavelengths, making them more susceptible to blockage by obstacles. Omnidirectional signals, which radiate equally in all directions, are often associated with penetrating signals to ensure wide-area coverage. Unidirectional signals, focused in a specific direction, are typically used with non-penetrating signals to achieve targeted communication and higher signal strength.

[0051] Reflection and multipath propagation are critical considerations for both penetrating and non-penetrating signals. Reflective surfaces can cause signals to travel along multiple paths, leading to multipath effects. For penetrating signals, multipath propagation can enhance coverage by allowing signals to reach areas beyond line-of-sight. However, for non-penetrating signals, multipath can cause interference and reduce measurement accuracy. Path loss affects both types of signals, with LF signals generally experiencing lower path loss over longer distances compared to HF signals. As used here, an omnidirectional signal is an electromagnetic wave that radiates with similar power over a wide range of directions from its source. This type of signal is used to facilitate coverage over a wide area and is commonly employed in applications such as broadcasting, wireless networking, and certain radar systems.

[0052] As used here, a unidirectional signal is an electromagnetic wave that is focused in a specific direction, providing targeted coverage and higher signal strength in that direction. Unidirectional signals are used in applications where precise targeting and reduced interference are required, such as in directional antennas, radar systems, and point-to-point communication links.

[0053] As used here, path loss is the reduction in signal strength as an electromagnetic wave travels through space or a medium. Path loss is influenced by factors such as distance, frequency, and the presence of obstacles.

[0054] As used herein, the term “about” refers to ± 10%

[0055] The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", “having” and their conjugates mean "including but not limited to".

[0056] The term “consisting of’ means “including and limited to”.

[0057] The term "consisting essentially of' means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and / or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps, and / or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method, or structure.

[0058] As used herein, the singular form "a", "an", and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0059] As used herein, the terms “multiple” and “multi” are used interchangeably, and mean one or more, e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 20, etc.

[0060] OVERVIEW

[0061] An aspect of some embodiments of the current invention relates to a multi-band interrogation signal system and method is disclosed and described. Optionally, the system may be configured to prevent friendly fire incidents. Optionally, the system may be mounted to a vehicle, weapons platform, tactical chest rigs and / or harnesses, body armor, hunting vest, paramedic uniform, bunker gear, helmet, weapon, pack, molle pouch, etc. and / or any combination thereof. Optionally, the system may be mounted to a weapon (e.g., revolver, pistol, hunting rifle, assault rifle, sniper rifle, automatic, semiautomatic, carbines, machine gun, submachine gun, shotgun, grenade launcher, rocket launcher, cannon, mortar, tank, drone, aircraft, etc.). Optionally, the system may warn a user when they are pointing a weapon at a friendly force (e.g., soldier, unit, weapon, dog, etc.), a fellow hunter, an ally, a supply base (e.g., a temporary base, etc.), staging stations, medical facilities, base camps, neutral observers, medical personnel, first responders, etc. to prevent friendly fire on such facilities, etc. Optionally, the system may be configured to communicate positional information between friendly units and / or warn of potential friendly fire hazards.

[0062] Transceivers

[0063] According to some embodiments, the system may include at least two transceivers. Optionally, each transceiver may include electromagnetic wave transceivers, for example, a radiofrequency device and / or a millimeter wave device (e.g., radar) and / or an optical device (e.g., lidar). Each transceiver may be configured for omnidirectional signal and / or unidirectional signal transmission and / or receipt. Optionally, at least one antenna of each transceiver may be dedicated to transmitting and / or receiving a signal unidirectionally. Optionally, a unidirectional transceiver may be configured to point along the line of fire of a firing unit. Optionally, at least one antenna of each transceiver may be dedicated to transmitting and / or receiving a directional signal. Optionally, at least one antenna of each transceiver may be dedicated to transmitting and / or receiving a signal omnidirectionally.

[0064] In some embodiments, a transceiver may include a “Frequency -Modulated Continuous Wave” or “FMCW” device (e.g., radar or lidar). FMCW may relate to a system that transmits a continuous signal whose frequency changes over time. In some cases, a FMCW device transmits a continuous signal whose frequency is changes over time. In FMCW radar, when this signal encounters a target, it is reflected back to the radar. By comparing the reflected signal to the original transmitted signal, the radar can determine the target's distance and speed. FMCW radar offers high range resolution and accurate Doppler velocity measurement, making it suitable for applications requiring precise distance and speed information. The FMCW system can scan a wide range of frequencies for Doppler effect echoes. The frequency range can be adjusted. The FMCW system can also transmit a spread spectrum "chirp" signal that covers a significant frequency band, The form and bandwidth of the FMCW signal can be adjusted. This means that each device occupies a large band in the frequency spectrum. As used herein, the term “Doppler radar” may relate to a type of that detects a return signal at a frequency that has been changed from the outgoing signal. The radar measures the Doppler shift of a reflected signal to determine a target's relative velocity. This shift in frequency is caused by the relative motion between the radar and the target and / or intentionally induced by the transmitter.

[0065] According to some embodiments, the transceivers of each unit may be limited. Optionally, the transceivers may be limited by the users. Optionally, the transceivers may be limited to a narrow "beam" or cone. Optionally, the range of the transceivers may be limited, e.g., to the maximum firing range of the weapon.

[0066] According to some embodiments, the system may include at least one antenna. Optionally, the antenna may detect and / or transmit signals. Optionally, the antenna may be aligned with the line of fire (LOF) (e.g., barrel of the weapon, in-line). Optionally, the antenna array may not be aligned with the barrel of the weapon (not in-line). Optionally, one antenna may be aligned with the barrel of the weapon, and one or more antennae which are not aligned with the barrel of the weapon (e.g., three antennae may track whether a user is aiming above, below, to the side, at what angle, etc.) of a similar device, a compatible transceiver, and / or friendly transceiver.

[0067] According to some embodiments, the system may include a transceiver. Optionally, the transceiver may include a radar device (e.g., a Doppler radar) and / or a lidar device. Optionally, the transceiver may have a high-band frequency ranging between 60 GHz to 120 GHz, and / or between 60 GHz to 100 GHz, and / or between 75 GHz to 95 GHz, and / or between 76 GHz to 81 GHz. Optionally, the transceiver may have a medium-band frequency between 1 GHz to 60 GHz, and / or 1 GHz to 10 GHz and / or 10 GHz to 30 GHz. Optionally, the transceiver may have a low-band frequency between 3 MHz to 2 GHz, and / or 300 kHz to 3 MHz, and / or 30 kHz to 300 kHz, and / or 1 kHz to 100 kHz, and / or 300 kHz to 1 GHz

[0068] The transceiver wavelength may include radar and / or lidar e.g., in the decimeter range (e.g., between 1 m to 0.1 m) the millimeter wave range (e.g., from 1 mm to 100 mm) and / or the micrometer wave range (e.g., between 1 pm to 1000 pm) and / or in the nanometer wave range (e.g., between 1 nm to 1000 nm). According to some embodiments, the system may include a high frequency (HF) transceiver. The high frequency transceiver may be configured for transmitting and / or receiving high-band frequency signals. Optionally, the high frequency transceiver may include a high frequency radio transceiver. Optionally, the high frequency signals may include high frequency radar. Optionally, the high frequency transceiver may be unidirectional. Optionally, the high frequency transceiver may be omnidirectional.

[0069] According to some embodiments, the system may include a low-band transceiver. The low- band transceiver may be configured for transmitting and / or receiving low-band frequency signals. Optionally, the low-band transceiver may include a low frequency radio transceiver. Optionally, the low frequency signals may include low frequency radar. Optionally, the low-band transceiver may be unidirectional. Optionally, the low-band transceiver may be omnidirectional. Optionally, low frequency signals may be more power efficient (for transmitting and / or receiving) when compared to higher-frequency radar of similar range. Optionally, the low frequency signals may have a longer wavelength than high frequency signals facilitating penetration of the atmosphere without losing strength and / or being less susceptible to environmental clutter and / or atmospheric losses.

[0070] Signals

[0071] According to some embodiments, the system may be configured to send and / or receive two or more signals at different frequencies. Optionally, the band of the frequencies may be far apart. Optionally, the system may include separate antennas for each band. Optionally, the system may warn a user when they are likely pointing a weapon at a friendly transceiver. Optionally, the system may inhibit a user from firing at a friendly transceiver. In some embodiments, the system may compute a range to the friendly transceiver and / or the warning and / or action may depend on whether the friendly transceiver is in range of the weapon.

[0072] According to some embodiments, the signals may provide an omnidirectional or a directional signal (e.g., angle accuracy less than 0.1 degrees, and / or between 0.1 degree to 1 degree, and / or between 1 degree to 10 degrees, and / or between 10 degrees to 45 degrees), and / or resolution, and / or detection accuracy. For example, the directivity of a wake-up signal may range between 1 m to 10 m and / or between 10 m to 50 m, and / or between 50 m to 150 m, and / or between 150 m to 500 m, and / or between 500 m to 3000 m. Optionally, the transceiver may include a radar device (e.g., an off the shelf radar, e.g., a doppler radar), e.g., making the system aesthetic and / or lightweight.

[0073] According to some embodiments, the high frequency signals may be focused (unidirectional) and / or broadcast in all directions (omnidirectional). Optionally, the high frequency signals may not penetrate obstacles and / or buildings. Optionally, focused beamed signals may be reflected off some objects and / or may be received behind an obstacle and / or off the intended path (e.g., multipath interference). Optionally, detecting these high frequency signals (e.g., high-band standby mode) may take significant power.

[0074] According to some embodiments, the low frequency signals may be omnidirectional. Optionally, the low frequency signals may penetrate obstacles (e.g., buildings, vehicles, vegetation, etc.). Optionally, the low frequency signals may not require significant power to detect in low-band standby mode. Optionally, low frequency signals may be effective at long-range target detection of challenging targets, e.g., as low and / or high speed and / or small targets and / or targets in cluttered environments. Optionally a low power standby mode may receive only signals that can be received with low power (e.g., low frequency signals) and a high-power standby mode may receive signals that involve higher power receivers (e.g., higher frequency signals, high frequency signals). For example, the low power standby mode may use less than 1 mA of power and / or between 1 to 5 mA and / or between 5 to 10 mA. The High power standby mode may use between 10 to 100 and / or between 100 to 1000 times as much power as the low power standby. For example, the high power standby may use from 10 to 100 mA and / or between 100 to 1000 mA and / or between 1000 to 10000 mA.

[0075] In some embodiments, a system may utilize LF band as a penetrating band and a HF band as a non-penetrating band. For example, an FMCW radar system may transmit a low- frequency (LF) signal in the range of 300 kHz to 2 GHz and a high-frequency (HF) signal in the range of 60 GHz to 100 GHz. The LF signal, due to its lower frequency, may exhibit low attenuation and penetrate obstacles such as walls and buildings. Conversely, the HF signal, with its higher frequency, may experience significant attenuation when encountering obstacles, resulting in nonpenetrating behavior.

[0076] Attenuation of HF signals can be exemplified by their interaction with materials such as concrete and metal. For instance, an HF signal passing through a concrete wall may experience substantial attenuation, reducing its strength by several decibels (dB). Similarly, metal surfaces can reflect HF signals, causing them to travel along multiple paths and leading to multipath propagation. In contrast, LF signals passing through the same concrete wall may experience reduced or negligible attenuation, maintaining their strength and integrity. For example, loss may be quantified as a high number of decibels per meter dB / m of material thickness. For example, a 5 GHz signal might lose 10 dB to 20dB when passing through a single concrete wall. For example, a 900 MHz signal might only lose 2 dB to 5 dB through the same concrete wall, making the loss insignificant for reliable communication.

[0077] In some embodiments, the system may differentiate between direct and multipath signals based on their differential travel times. For example, if the HF signal takes a longer path due to reflection off obstacles, it may arrive later than the LF signal, which travels directly through the obstacles. By comparing the time of arrival of the HF and LF signals, the system can classify the HF signal as a multipath signal if its differential travel time exceeds a threshold value. This classification facilitates range and line-of-fire decisions.

[0078] Signal Protection

[0079] According to some embodiments, the signals transmitted and / or received by the transceivers may be pulsed, modulated, encoded and / or coded (e.g., encoding and / or coding may be changed to avoid enemy stealing the device and / or spoofing the signal, modulated pulses of any frequency, and / or of any kind of modulation,), modulated and / or non-modulated signals in changing frequencies, spread spectrum, etc. Optionally, this may make it difficult for an enemy to detect and / or locate friendly forces based on the signals. Alternatively, or additionally, this may prevent and / or make it difficult for the enemy to spoof the signal (e.g., to prevent the enemy from fooling friendly forces into firing on the enemy). Optionally, additional data may be transmitted and / or received (e.g., encourage communication and / or share information between units, individual soldiers, command, etc.).

[0080] According to some embodiments, the system may be configured to provide device identifiers and / or authentication tags. Optionally, a wake-up signal may include a device identifier and / or authentication tag. Optionally, a response signal may include a device identifier and / or authentication tag. Optionally, firing may be inhibited unless authentication succeeds. Optionally, firing may be inhibited unless authentication fails. According to some embodiments, the system may be configured to avoid unnecessary transmissions, e.g., to avoid exposing units to detection by the enemy. Optionally, the system may be configured to save power (e.g., reducing the demand for battery capacity and / or reducing maintenance e.g., recharging). Optionally, the system may be maintained in standby mode most of the time.

[0081] System Modes

[0082] According to some embodiments, the system may be configured for various modes. The system may include one or more standby modes. Optionally, the standby modes may be the default modes of the system. Optionally, the standby modes may default to reduced power (low-power) standby and / or high-power standby. Optionally, the system may include a standby mode for each of the transceivers. Optionally, the system may be configured to maintain a low-power standby mode. Optionally, in low-power standby mode at least the low-band receiver may be active. Optionally, the low frequency signals may not require significant power to detect in low-band standby mode. Optionally, detecting high frequency signals (e.g., high-band standby mode) may take significant power. Optionally, the system may include a high-power standby mode. Optionally, the system may transition from a low-power standby mode to a high-power standby mode upon receipt of a signal. Optionally, the signal may be a wake-up signal. Optionally, the wake-up signal may be low-band signal and / or a high-band signal. Optionally, the system may default from a high-power standby mode to a low-power standby mode if a signal is not received.

[0083] According to some embodiments, the system may include a firing mode. Optionally, firing mode may be intentionally activated by the user, e.g., when the user unlocks the weapon’s safety, takes-up the trigger, manually activates a transceiver of the system, aims the weapon, etc. Optionally, in firing mode, the first transceiver may transmit a wake-up signal. Optionally, in firing mode, the first transceiver may transmit a wake-up signal to transceiver units to go from a standby mode to a listening mode. Optionally, the wake-up signal may be a high-band signal and / or a low- band signal. Optionally, the wake-up signal may be omnidirectional. Optionally, the wake-up signal may be transmitted to nearby units.

[0084] According to some embodiments, upon receipt of the wake-up signal by one or more additional transceivers, the additional transceivers may activate a high-power standby mode. Optionally, upon receipt of the wake-up signal by one or more transceivers, the transceivers may transition from low-power standby mode to high-power standby mode. Optionally, in high-power standby mode, the additional transceivers may be configured to transmit and / or receive omnidirectional signals and / or unidirectional signals. Optionally, upon receipt of the wake-up signal, a transceiver may send a response signal. Optionally, the response signal may be a high- band signal and / or a low-band signal. Optionally, the response may be transmitted automatically and / or after a wake-up interval. Optionally, the wake-up interval may be the activation time for the additional transceiver to transition from low-power standby mode to high-power standby mode. Optionally, if a directional signal is not received while the system is in high-power standby mode within a predetermined wake-up interval, the system may default back to the low-power standby mode.

[0085] According to some embodiments, the wake-up interval may be a predetermined wake-up interval. Optionally, the response time may be bounded within a predetermined wake-up interval. Optionally, the wake-up interval may be determined, at least in part, by the distance between the transceivers, and / or device identifiers, and / or authentication tags, and / or time required to authenticate the received signal. Optionally, the predetermined wake-up interval may be determined, at least in part, by the type of transceiver and / or type of signal and / or frequency of the signal. Optionally, the predetermined wake-up interval may be set by the user. Optionally, the predetermined wake-up interval may be used as an identifier, and / or as part of an identification sequence between friendly units.

[0086] According to some embodiments, following the omnidirectional wake-up signal transmission, the first transceiver may transmit a unidirectional signal. The unidirectional signal may be directed along the intended line of fire (LOF). Optionally, a unidirectional transceiver may be configured to point along the line of fire of the firing unit. Optionally, the unidirectional signal may be a high-band signal and / or a low-band signal. Optionally, a unidirectional signal may be transmitted by the first transceiver along the line of fire (LOF) after a predetermined wake-up interval. Optionally, a high-band signal may be transmitted by the first transceiver along the line of fire (LOF) after a predetermined wake-up interval,

[0087] According to some embodiments, if the additional transceivers, in high-power standby mode, receive the directional signal from the first transceiver, they may be configured to transmit a response signal. Optionally, the response signal may be a unidirectional signal. Optionally, a unidirectional transceiver of a receiving unit may be configured to transmit a directional response signal in the direction of the unidirectional signal received from the firing unit. Optionally, the unidirectional signal may be a high-band signal and / or a low-band signal. Optionally, upon receipt of the unidirectional signal by the first transceiver from an additional transceiver, the system may be configured to determine if the additional transceivers are in the line of fire (LOF) and / or warn the user accordingly. Optionally, in firing mode, the system may detect if there is a friendly transceiver in the line of fire (LOF). Optionally, based on receipt of a unidirectional response (e.g., high-band response), and the system may be configured to present a warning to the user and / or inhibit firing when a friendly device is determined to be in the line of fire. Optionally, based on receipt of an omnidirectional response (e.g., low-band response), and the system may be configured to present a caution to the user. Optionally, the system may be configured to return from high-power standby to low-power standby. For example, the system may return to the low power standby mode in the absence of receipt of a high-band signal and / or in the absence of a wake-up signal and / or after a fixed time interval. Optionally, the system may be free to fire along the line of fire in the absence of receipt a response signal.

[0088] According to some embodiments, the system may include a warning mode. Optionally, in warning mode, the system may transmit a detectable signal (e.g., a wake-up signal) to friendly units with or without positional information. Optionally, in warning mode, the system may transmit a detectable signal to friendly units, warning them not to fire in the direction of the detected signal. Optionally, in warning mode, the system may transmit a warning to friendly units that are located within the line of fire, and / or located close to the line of fire. Optionally, the warning signal may be unidirectional. Optionally, the warning signal may be omnidirectional. Optionally, the warning signal may be a high-band signal. Optionally, the warning signal may be a low-band signal. Optionally, the warning signal may be transmitted in the direction of a received signal and / or in response to a received signal.

[0089] According to some embodiments, the additional transceivers may be configured to transmit a single response signal if both a low-band signal and a high-band signal are received. Optionally, a unidirectional transceiver of a receiving unit may be configured to transmit a directional single response signal in the direction of the unidirectional signal received from the firing unit. Optionally, the single response may include an indication that both a low-band signal and a high- band signal were received. Optionally, the single response signal may be a high-band response signal and / or a low-band response signal. Communication relay

[0090] According to some embodiments, a firing unit may transmit a signal (e.g., the wake-up signal) to a communication relay (e.g., a communications unit, etc.). Optionally, a communication relay may transmit an omnidirectional wake-up signal to multiple units, e.g., units in a company, all nearby units, etc. Optionally, the communication relay may transmit a wake-up signal in response to a signal received from a firing unit. Optionally, the communication relay may transmit a wake-up signal at a predetermined time (e.g., a predetermined operational time, at a predetermined mission time, at a predetermined check-in time, etc.). Optionally, the communication relay may transmit a wake-up signal in response to a signal received from a command unit (e.g., central command unit, coordinator, etc.). Optionally, the communication relay may send the wake-up signal in a way that will not endanger the firing unit, e.g., the signal may be traceable and / or detectable by the enemy to the communication relay and not to the firing unit, etc. Optionally, the communication relay may be used as a decoy by the firing unit.

[0091] Additionally, or alternatively, an omnidirectional warning response from the receiving unit may be transmitted via a communication relay without endangering the receiving unit. etc. Optionally, the communication relay may send the omnidirectional response signal in a way that will not endanger the receiving unit, e.g., the signal may be traceable and / or detectable by the enemy to the communication relay and not to the receiving unit, etc. Optionally, the communication relay may be used as a decoy by the receiving unit.

[0092] Control circuitry

[0093] According to some embodiments, the system, device or method may include control circuitry. Optionally, the control circuitry may include at least one processor. Optionally, the control circuitry may include at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium. Optionally, the non-transitory computer-readable medium may be configured for storing instructions. Optionally, the non-transitory computer-readable medium may be configured for storing instructions which may be executed by the processor.

[0094] According to some embodiments, the processor may be configured to encode and / or decode data. Optionally, the processor may be programmable (e.g., to transmit at a particular frequency, modulate the frequency, pulse the transmission, encode and / or decode a signal, identify friend from foe, assist in the decision to fire or not, provide a warning, provide proximity data, determine signal strength, determine direction and / or range, provide location information, provide information to command, etc.). Optionally, the system may communicate data among compatible devices, similar devices, and / or devices identified as friendly devices. Optionally, signal strength may be used to determine direction and / or range. Optionally, signaling between devices may be used to determine range. Optionally, by communicating with friendly units carrying a similar device, the system may determine the range and direction to one or more units.

[0095] According to some embodiments, the control circuitry may be configured to maintain a low-power standby mode. Optionally, the control circuitry may be configured to maintain a low- power standby mode in which at least the low-band receiver may be active. Optionally, the control circuitry may be configured to maintain a low-power standby mode in which at least the low-band receiver may be in standby mode. Optionally, the control circuitry may be configured to maintain a low-power standby mode in which at least the low-band transceiver may be in standby mode.

[0096] According to some embodiments, the control circuitry may be configured to maintain a high-power standby mode. Optionally, the control circuitry may be configured to maintain a high- power standby mode in which at least the low-band receiver and / or high-power receiver may be active. Optionally, the control circuitry may be configured to maintain a high-power standby mode in which at least the low-band receiver and / or high-power receiver may be in standby mode. Optionally, the control circuitry may be configured to maintain a high-power standby mode in which at least the low-band transceiver and / or high-power transceiver may be in standby mode. Optionally, the control circuitry may be configured to return the system from high-power standby mode to low-power standby mode if a signal is not received within a predetermined interval. For example, if the high band LoF signal is not received and / or another low band wake up signal is not received.

[0097] In some embodiments, the technology described herein may involve the use of a wake-up dwell window. For example, the length of the wake-up dwell window may range from approximately 1 to 20 ms and / or between 10 to 200 ms and / or between 200 to 1000 ms. This wakeup dwell window may be utilized by control circuitry to transition from a low-power standby mode to a high power standby mode. The firing unit may delay sending the LoF signal after the wakeup signal for a period of time equal to the wake up dwell window. In certain scenarios, the control circuitry of the friendly receiving unit may maintain a low-power standby mode for a period of time (e.g., less than the wake-up dwell period) after receiving a wake-up signal.

[0098] Additionally, the friendly receiving unit control circuitry may include a LOF (Line of Fire) listen window. For example, the LoF listen window may range from approximately 5 to 100 ms and / or between 1 to 5 ms and / or between 100 to 500 ms. During the LoF listen window the friendly receiving unit may stay on high power standby. This listen window may be employed to detect signals directed along the line of fire after a predetermined wake-up interval. The control circuitry of the firing unit may be configured to transmit a high-band signal during this interval. The LoF signal may be directed along the LOF to identify and authenticate nearby transceiver units. Optionally, the predetermined wake-up interval and / or the LoF listen window may be set by the user or automatically determined based on the type or generation of the transceiver, and / or could serve as part of an identification sequence between friendly units.

[0099] In some embodiments, back-off randomization techniques may be applied, involving exponential back-off ranging from approximately 25 to 400 milliseconds with a jitter of about 20%. This back-off randomization may help to manage signal collisions and improve communication reliability between transceiver units. For instance, when a signal is not received within a predetermined interval, the control circuitry may return the system from high-power standby mode to low-power standby mode, thereby conserving power while maintaining readiness for subsequent signals.

[0100] Furthermore, the control circuitry may be configured to evaluate response signals received on both the low-band and high-band receivers. These response signals may include device identifiers and authentication tags, which could be used to determine the presence of friendly units in the line of fire. Optionally, the system may present a warning to the user if a friendly device is detected in the LOF, and may inhibit firing to avoid potential friendly fire incidents. This capability may be based on the receipt of low-band and / or high-band response signals, ensuring a higher level of safety and coordination among friendly units.

[0101] According to some embodiments, the control circuitry may be configured to transmit a low-band wake-up signal to nearby transceiver units upon user intent to fire (e.g., user triggering a firing mode). Optionally, firing mode may be intentionally activated by the user, e.g., when the user unlocks the weapon’s safety, takes-up the trigger, manually activates a transceiver of the system, aims the weapon, etc. Optionally, the low-band wake-up signal may be an omnidirectional signal.

[0102] According to some embodiments, the control circuitry may be configured to transmit a high-band signal directed along the line of fire (LOF) after a predetermined wake-up interval, Optionally, the control circuitry may be configured to transmit a high-band signal directed along the line of fire after a predetermined interval, Optionally, the wake-up interval may be a predetermined wake-up interval, Optionally, the predetermined wake-up interval may be determined by the user, and / or automatically predetermined by the type and / or generation of the transceiver. Optionally, the predetermined wake-up interval may be used as an identifier, and / or as part of an identification sequence between friendly units. Optionally, the high-band signal may be a unidirectional signal.

[0103] According to some embodiments, the control circuitry may be configured to evaluate response signals received on the low-band receiver and / or high-band receiver. Optionally, the response signals may include device identifiers and / or authentication tags.

[0104] According to some embodiments, the control circuitry may be configured to present a warning to a user when a friendly device is determined to be in the line of fire. The control circuitry may be configured to present a warning to a user when a low-band response is received. Optionally, a friendly unit may be determined to potentially be in the line of fire based on receipt of a low- band response signal. Optionally, a friendly unit may be determined to be in the vicinity of the firing unit based on receipt of a low-band response signal. The control circuitry may be configured to inhibit firing when a friendly device is determined to be in the line of fire. Optionally, a friendly unit may be determined to be in the line of fire based on receipt of a high-band response signal and a low-band response signal. Optionally, a friendly unit may be determined to be in the line of fire based on receipt of a high-band response signal.

[0105] According to some embodiments, the control circuitry may be configured to inhibit firing by the firing unit when a friendly unit is determined to be in the line of fire. The control circuitry may be configured to drive a firing interlock, which may prevent firing of the weapon, when a friendly unit is determined to be in the line of fire. Optionally, a friendly unit may be determined to be in the line of fire based on receipt of a high-band response and a low-band response signal. Optionally, a friendly unit may be determined to be in the line of fire based on receipt of a high- band response signal. According to some embodiments, the control circuitry may include one or more timeouts in the absence of receipt of a transmitted signal. Optionally, the transmitted signal may be a low- band signal. Optionally, the transmitted signal may be high-band signal. Optionally, a timeout may return a transceiver from high-power standby mode to low-power standby mode in the absence of receipt of a high-band signal and / or in the absence of receipt of a further wake up signal and / or after a fixed time period.

[0106] According to some embodiments, the control circuitry may include one or more randomized back-offs. Optionally, a back-off may prevent network congestion and / or collisions. Optionally, the control circuitry may fail to transmit a message (e.g., due to a collision with another message, an overloaded server, etc.), it may wait a random amount of time before trying again. Optionally, a back-off may return a transceiver from high-power standby to low-power standby in the absence receiving a signal of a after a predetermined interval.

[0107] According to some embodiments, the control circuitry may be configured to transition the system from a low-power standby mode to a high-power standby mode upon receipt of a wake-up signal. Optionally, the wake-up signal may be a low-band signal and / or a high-band signal.

[0108] According to some embodiments, the control circuitry may be configured to transmit a response signal upon receipt of a wake-up signal. Optionally, the response signal may be a low- band signal and / or a high-band signal. Optionally, the control circuitry may be configured to transmit a low-band response signal and / or a high-band response signal after a predetermined wake-up interval.

[0109] According to some embodiments, the system may include one or more additional directional devices (e.g., compass, gyro, GPS, accelerometer, gravimeter, sensor to determine relative direction with respect to the True or Magnetic North, etc.).

[0110] Warning system

[0111] According to some embodiments, the warning of a friendly unit along the line of fire may occur when a friendly device is determined to be in the line of fire. The control circuitry may be configured to present a warning to a user when a low-band response is received. Optionally, a friendly unit may be determined to potentially be in the line of fire based on receipt of a low-band response signal. Optionally, a friendly unit may be determined to be in the vicinity of the firing unit based on receipt of a low-band response signal. The control circuitry may be configured to inhibit firing when a friendly device is determined to be in the line of fire. Optionally, a friendly unit may be determined to be in the line of fire based on receipt of a high-band response signal and a low-band response signal. Optionally, a friendly unit may be determined to be in the line of fire based on receipt of a high-band response signal.

[0112] According to some embodiments, the warning may be an audible warning, and / or visual warning, and / or haptic warning. Optionally, the audible warning may be located on a device associated with the weapon and / or transceiver and / or the weapon and / or a component thereof. Optionally, the audible warning may be relayed to a headset and / or earphones and / or speaker. Optionally, the audible warning may be a computerized voice and / or a tone and / or a user defined sound. Optionally, the audible warning may increase in volume in accordance with the location of the friendly unit, e.g., proximity of the friendly unit to the field of fire and / or line of fire, etc. Optionally, the visible warning may be located on the weapon and / or a component thereof. Optionally, the visible warning may be located on a device associated with the weapon and / or transceiver. Optionally, the visible warning may be a low light warning. Optionally, the visible warning may be directed towards the user e.g., to prevent identification by enemy units. Optionally, the visible warning may be a LED light, etc. Optionally, the visible warning may increase in intensity and / or increase in flicker rate in accordance with the location of the friendly unit, e.g., proximity of the friendly unit to the field of fire and / or line of fire, etc. Optionally, a haptic warning may vibrate the weapon and / or a component thereof. Optionally, the haptic warning may be localized on a device associated with the weapon and / or transceiver, e.g., a personal computing device.

[0113] Firing Interlock

[0114] According to some embodiments, the control circuitry may be configured to drive a firing interlock, which may prevent firing of the weapon, when a friendly unit is determined to be in the line of fire. Optionally, a firing interlock may be selected from a grip safety, trigger safety, magazine disconnect safety, firing pin block, hammer block, drop safety, rotary safety, sliding tang safety, cross-bolt safety, half-cock safety, or a combination thereof. Optionally, a friendly unit may be determined to be in the line of fire based on receipt of a high-band response and a low-band response signal. Optionally, a friendly unit may be determined to be in the line of fire based on receipt of a high-band response signal. Exemplary Use

[0115] Some embodiments may relate to a method for multi-band interrogation signaling. Optionally, the method may include a system with at least two radiofrequency transceivers. Optionally, the transceivers may be configured to transmit, and / or detect, and / or receive radiofrequency signals from similar transceivers. Optionally, initially, all transceivers may be in a default standby mode. Optionally, the default standby mode may be a low-power mode. Optionally, in the default standby mode, the transceiver may be set to detect low frequency (LF) signals (e.g., high frequency transceiver may have both the transmitter and receiver powered off, while the low frequency transceiver may have the transmitter powered off and / or the receiver powered on or periodically powered on to trap interrogation low frequency signal). Optionally, a firing unit may intend to fire a weapon. Optionally, prior to firing, the firing unit may transmit a low frequency “wake-up” signal. Optionally, the low frequency signal may be sent to all units in all directions, e.g., omnidirectional signal. Optionally, upon receipt of the low frequency signal, the transceiver may transition from low-power standby mode to high-power standby mode. Optionally, in high-power standby mode, both the high frequency receiver and the low frequency receiver may be turned on, ready to detect a signal. Optionally, the firing unit may then transit a high frequency “wake-up” signal and / or warning signal directed along its line of fire (LOF). Optionally, units in the line of fire may receive the unidirectional high frequency “wake-up” signal and / or warning signal. Optionally, units not receiving the high frequency “wake-up” signal and / or warning signal may return to the default low-power standby mode after a short interval. Optionally, units receiving the high frequency “wake-up” signal and / or warning signal may transmit a response signal. Optionally, the response signal may be a high-band response signal and / or a low-band response signal. For example, the response may include a directional high signal and / or an omnidirectional signal. Optionally, the response may include an identifying (ID) signal. An ID signal may include specific identification of a unit and / or may be a signal that generally agreed to as a response of a friendly unit. Optionally, the response may be a “don’t shoot me signal”. Optionally, maintaining the system in low-power standby mode and turning on high-power standby mode when a wake-up signal is received may increase the battery life and / or reduce power consumption. The length of time that the system remains in high power standby mode may depend on the signals received. For example, there may be a first time interval after which the system returns to low power standby when a wake signal (e.g., low band) is received but no LoF (e.g., high band) signal is received. There may be another time interval begore retuning to low power standby when both the wake signal is received and a subsequent LoF signal is received and / or a response signal is transmitted.

[0116] According to some embodiments, the system and / or method may prevent and / or warn a user not to fire when aiming at another user having a similar radiofrequency device. Optionally, the system may assist in making a decision to fire or not to fire a weapon. Optionally, the system may include a subsystem which may provide an audible and / or visual and / or vibration warning to the person handling the weapon to avoid firing on friendly units.

[0117] SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0118] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings and / or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0119] Reference is now made to the exemplary figures.

[0120] Fig. 1 is a flow diagram describing use of a method for multi-band interrogation signaling system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, in method 100, all units start 10 in low power standby mode, a firing unit transmits 12 a low frequency (LF) wakeup signal. The low frequency wake-up signal may be an omnidirectional signal. Optionally, the low frequency signal may range between 300 kHz to 2 GHz.

[0121] All units receive 14 the low frequency (LF) wake-up signal and transition to high power standby mode, ready to receive a high frequency (HF) signal. Optionally, the receiving units may transmit a low frequency response signal.

[0122] Firing unit transmits 16 a high frequency wake-up signal directed along the line of fire (LOF). The high frequency signal is directional. Optionally, the high frequency signal may be transmitted after a predetermined wake-up interval. Optionally, the high frequency signal may be transmitted after receipt of a low frequency response signal from one or more receiving units.

[0123] If a receiving unit does not receive 17 the high frequency signal, the receiving unit may return 18 to low power standby mode (e.g., receiving unit may not be in line of fire or may be behind an obstacle). For example, returning 18 to the low power standby mode may be after a predetermined time interval if no further signals are received.

[0124] If the receiving unit receives 17 the high frequency signal, the receiving unit may transmit 20 a response. Optionally, a unidirectional transceiver of a receiving unit may be configured to transmit a directional response signal in the direction of the high frequency signal received from the firing unit. The response may include a high frequency response signal and / or a low frequency response signal. Optionally, the response signal may include an indication that both the low frequency signal and the high frequency signal were received 17 by the receiving unit. Optionally, the response signal may include one or more unit identifiers and / or authentication data. Optionally, the response signal may include an ID signal identifying the receiving unit and / or the receiving unit’s position.

[0125] If the firing unit does not receive 22 a response signal, then the firing unit may fire 26. Lack of a response signal indicates that no friendly unit received 17 the high frequency signal along the LoF. If there were a friendly unit on the LoF it would be expected to receive 17 the high frequency signal and responds. When the firing unit receives 22 both a high frequency signal and a low frequency response, then the firing unit may refrain from firing 24. Receiving the high and low frequency signals together would tend to indicate that a friendly unit is in a LoF. It is possible that the friendly unit is not in the LoF (e.g., high frequency signal was received by a multipath reflection) and this may be checked. Optionally, receipt 22 of the high frequency response may trigger a firing interlock preventing the firing unit from firing on the friendly unit. Optionally, the receipt of the high frequency response may require further testing by the firing unit to determine whether a friendly unit is in the LOF, e.g., determining direct vs. multipath high frequency signals, radio communication, GPS location, etc. If the high frequency connection between the firing unit and the friendly unit is determined to be multipath firing may be reactivated.

[0126] Alternatively, or additionally, the firing unit may determine a range to the friendly unit and / or other information and / or the decision whether to fire may be dependent on the range and / or other information (e.g., to determine whether the receiving unit is receiving a multi-path signal and / or not on the LOF).

[0127] If the firing unit receives 22 a low frequency signal 28, then the firing unit may receive a warning to be cautious since a friendly unit may be in the line of fire and / or the friendly unit may not be in the LOF (e.g., the receiving unit may have received a multi-path HF signal). Optionally, the location of a friendly unit may be confirmed by additional means, e.g., determining direct vs. multipath high frequency signals, radio communication, GPS location, high frequency directional signal, etc.

[0128] If the firing unit receives no response signal, then the firing unit may fire 26 without fear of firing on a friendly unit.

[0129] Eventually the receiving unit may return to low power standby mode. For example, when a signal (e.g., a high band signal, a low band signal, a wake-up signal, a LoF signal) has not been received over a predetermined time span.

[0130] Fig. 2 is a block diagram describing a multi-band interrogation signaling system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, system 200 includes multiple units, each unit including a weapon 30 with at least two transceivers configured to receive and / or transmit radiofrequency signals. The transceivers may be a low frequency transceiver 32 and a high frequency transceiver 34. Optionally, the system may include a directional device, e.g., compass, GPS, etc. The transceivers may be omnidirectional and / or unidirectional. Optionally, a unidirectional transceiver may be configured to point along the line of fire of the firing unit. Optionally, a unidirectional transceiver of a receiving unit may be configured to transmit a directional response signal in the direction of the unidirectional signal received from the firing unit. Optionally, a unidirectional transceiver of a receiving unit may be configured to transmit a directional response signal in the direction of the high frequency signal received from the firing unit.

[0131] Figs. 3A-B are schematic diagrams illustrating a multi-band interrogation signal system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, a firing unit 42 may use the multi-band interrogation signal system to transmit an omnidirectional low frequency signal 44 and / or a unidirectional high frequency signal 46 which may be received by a similar system of one or more friendly units 42. Optionally, friendly units 42 may receive a low frequency (LF) wakeup signal 44 and transition to high frequency standby mode, ready to receive a high frequency (HF) signal. Firing unit 42 may then transmit a high frequency signal 46 directed along the line of fire (LOF).

[0132] Figs. 4A-B are schematic diagrams illustrating a multi-band interrogation signal system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, friendly units 52 may receive a high frequency signal directed along the line of fire (LOF) from firing unit 50, and may respond with a low frequency (LF) and / or high frequency signal 54 in the direction of the high frequency signal received from the firing unit 50, if they are within the line of fire (LOF). The firing unit 50 may receive the high frequency signal warning them that they have a friendly unit in the line of fire and / or indicating which lines of fire may be safe for firing along 56.

[0133] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating use of a multi-band interrogation signaling system to prevent a friendly fire incident, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, a weapon with a multi-band interrogation signaling system 60 may be aimed at a suspected enemy position. If a response to the transmitted low frequency and / or high frequency signal is received from a friendly unit 62 at the location of the suspected enemy position, then the position is identified as friendly. A warning may be provided to the user, who then does not fire on the friendly position. Thereby preventing a friendly fire incident. Optionally, a firing interlock may be triggered by receipt of the response, thereby preventing firing on the friendly unit. If no response to the transmitted low frequency and / or high frequency signal is received from the suspected enemy position, then the position is identified as an enemy position 64, and no warning is provided to the user, who may then fire on the position without fear of a friendly fire incident.

[0134] Fig. 6 is a flow diagram describing use of a multi-band interrogation signal system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, in method 300, a first transceiver transmits 310 a wake-up signal. Optionally, the wake-up signal may be a low frequency signal. Optionally, the wake-up signal may be an omnidirectional signal. A second transceiver, optionally in low-power standby mode, may receive 320 the wake-up signal. Optionally, the second transceiver transitions from low-power standby mode to high-power standby mode. Optionally, the second transceiver may transmit a response signal in response to the received wakeup signal. The first transceiver transmits 312 a directional signal along the line of fire (LOF). Optionally, the directional signal may be transmitted after a predetermined wake-up interval. If the second transceiver is not in the line of fire, it will not receive the directional signal. Optionally, if the second transceiver does not receive the directional signal after a predetermined interval, it may revert to a low-power standby mode. If the second transceiver is in the line of fire, it will receive 322 the directional signal. The second transceiver transmits 324 a warning signal in response to receipt of the received directional signal. Optionally, the warning signal may be a directional response signal sent to the first transceiver along the direction of the received signal from the first transceiver. Optionally, the response signal may be a low frequency response signal and / or a high frequency response signal. Optionally, the response signal may include an indication that both signals transmitted by the first transceiver were received by the second transceiver. The first transceiver receives 314 the warning signal and firing on the position of the second transceiver is suppressed. Optionally, receipt of the response signal from the second transceiver may trigger a firing interlock by the first transceiver, thereby preventing firing on the second transceiver.

[0135] For example, the method for preventing friendly fire incidents may include operating a friendly receiving unit in low-power standby mode, transmitting via a firing unit an omnidirectional wake-up signal receivable by the receiving unit while the receiving unit is in the standby mode, receiving the wake-up signal by the receiving unit, transitioning the receiving unit from low-power standby mode to high-power standby mode in response to the receiving of the wake-up signal, transmitting via a firing unit a directional signal along a line of fire (LOF) wherein the directional signal is receivable by the receiving unit in the high power standby mode and is not receivable by the receiving unit in the low power standby mode, receiving of the directional signal by the receiving unit if the receiving unit is in the LOF, responding to receiving the directional signal via the receiving unit by transmitting a warning signal; and triggering at least one of a warning output or a firing interlock based on receiving the warning signal, thereby preventing the firing unit from firing on the friendly receiving unit. Optionally, not receiving a response signal from the receiving unit indicates that the receiving unit is not in the line of fire, facilitating firing on an enemy position without fear of firing on the receiving unit. Optionally, the receiving unit may transition from high-power standby mode to low-power standby mode in the absence of receipt the directional signal from the firing unit.

[0136] Transmitting the directional signal after a predetermined wake-up interval after transmitting the wake-up signal. Optionally, directional signal detection and a response time are bounded within the predetermined wake-up interval. Optionally, transmitting the response signal from the receiving unit may include transmitting device identifiers and authentication tags. Optionally, the firing unit may authenticate the response signal from the receiving unit. Optionally, inhibiting firing unless authentication succeeds. Optionally, inhibiting firing unless authentication fails. Optionally, inhibiting firing may be by a grip safety, trigger safety, magazine disconnect safety, firing pin block, hammer block, drop safety, rotary safety, sliding tang safety, cross-bolt safety, half-cock safety, or a combination thereof. Optionally, the warning output may be audible, visual, haptic, or a combination thereof. The omnidirectional wake-up signal may be a low-band signal. The directional signal may be a high-band signal. The warning signal may be a high-band signal. Optionally, receiving a high- band response signal from the receiving unit indicates that the receiving unit is in the line of fire. Optionally, the method may further comprise transmitting a low-band response signal from the receiving unit upon receipt of the wake-up signal from the firing unit. The warning signal may be a low-band signal. Optionally, receiving a low-band response signal from the receiving unit indicates that the receiving unit is nearby. Optionally, receiving a low-band response signal may trigger a warning output when the receiving unit is determined to be nearby.

[0137] Fig. 7 is a block diagram describing a multi-band interrogation signal system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, system 400, includes at least a first unit 416 and a second unit 426. Each unit includes a low-band transceiver 412, 422 configured for omnidirectional transmission and reception. Each unit includes a high-band transceiver 414, 424 configured for unidirectional transmission and reception along a line of fire (LOF). Each unit includes control circuitry 410, 420. The control circuitry 410 of the first unit 416 is configured to upon user intent to fire, transmit a low-band wake-up signal to nearby units, after a predetermined wake-up interval, transmit a high-band signal directed along the line of fire (LOF), evaluate response signals received on the low-band transceiver and / or high-band transceiver, and present a warning or inhibit firing when a friendly unit is determined to be in the line of fire based on receipt of a directional response signal. The control circuitry 420 of the second unit 426 is configured to maintain the second unit in a low-power standby mode in which at least the low-band receiver is active, transition to a high-power standby mode upon receipt of the low-band wake-up signal from the first unit, and transmit a directional response signal to the first unit upon receipt of high band signal. Optionally, the control circuitry 410 of the first unit 416 is configured to present a warning and to inhibit firing when a friendly unit is determined to be in the line of fire based on receipt of a high-band response signal is received from the second unit 426. Optionally, the control circuitry 410 of the first unit 416 is configured to present a warning based on receipt of a low-band response signal is received from the second unit 426.

[0138] Fig. 8 is a block diagram describing a multi-band interrogation signal system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, system 500 may be configured to prevent friendly fire incidents. System 500 may include at least a friendly receiving unit 510 and a firing unit 520. Each of units 510 and 520 includes a low-band transceiver 512, 522 configured for omnidirectional transmission and reception, a high-band transceiver 514, 524 configured for unidirectional transmission and reception along a line of fire (LOF), and control circuitry 516, 526. Firing unit 520 further includes a firing interlock 528 and / or a warning system 530.

[0139] Receiving unit 510 may be configured to operate in a low-power standby mode, transition from the low-power standby mode to a high-power standby mode upon receiving an omnidirectional wake-up signal, detect and receive a unidirectional signal when in the high-power standby mode, and transmit a warning signal in response to receiving the unidirectional signal.

[0140] Firing unit is configured to transmit an omnidirectional wake-up signal receivable by the friendly receiving unit in the low-power standby mode, transmit a unidirectional signal along a line of fire (LOF), which is configured to be receivable by the friendly receiving unit when it is in the high-power standby mode, receive the warning signal transmitted by the friendly receiving unit, and to trigger at least one of a warning output or a firing interlock mechanism based on receiving the warning signal, thereby preventing the firing unit from firing on the friendly receiving unit.

[0141] The omnidirectional wake-up signal may be a low-band signal. Optionally, the low-band transceiver may be configured to operate in a sub-GHz frequency band. The unidirectional signal may be a high-band signal. The warning signal is a high-band signal. Optionally, the warning signal includes device identifiers and authentication tags. Optionally, the high-band transceiver may be configured to operate with a frequency ranging between 60 GHz to 100 GHz. The high- band transceiver may be aligned with the line of fire. Optionally, high-band signal detection and a response time are bounded within the predetermined wake-up interval.

[0142] The warning is audible, visual, haptic, or a combination thereof. The control circuitry of the receiving unit may be configured to return from high-power standby mode to low-power standby mode in the absence of receipt a signal (e.g., high-band wake-up signal and / or a low band wake up signal).

[0143] The control circuitry may be configured to inhibit firing unless authentication succeeds. The control circuitry may be configured to inhibit firing unless authentication fails. Optionally, firing may be inhibited by a grip safety, trigger safety, magazine disconnect safety, firing pin block, hammer block, drop safety, rotary safety, sliding tang safety, cross-bolt safety, half-cock safety, or a combination thereof. Optionally, the control circuitry may be configured for timeouts and randomized back-off. The system may be mounted to at least one of a vehicle, weapons platform, tactical chest rig, harness, body armor, hunting vest, paramedic uniform, bunker gear, helmet, weapon, pack, molle pouch, a weapon, a supply base, staging stations, medical facilities, base camps, or a combination thereof. Optionally, the weapon is a revolver, pistol, hunting rifle, assault rifle, sniper rifle, automatic, semiautomatic, carbines, machine gun, submachine gun, shotgun, grenade launcher, rocket launcher, cannon, mortar, tank, drone, aircraft, or a combination thereof.

[0144] Optionally, the friendly receiving unit 510 is a person, object, or force serving on the same team, a protected individual, a protected object, a party allied to, fighting towards the same goal as, or on the same side as a firing unit, neutral infrastructure, neutral individuals, or a combination thereof.

[0145] Fig. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a system for identifying a friendly unit in a line of fire, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, a transmitter 602 is configured for transmitting a wake-up signal. In some embodiments, a firing unit includes a firing unit transceiver 606. In some embodiments, a friendly unit includes a friendly unit transceiver 604. The friendly unit transceiver 604 is optionally configured to operate in a low power standby mode and a high-power mode. For example, in the low power standby mode, the friendly unit transceiver 604 receives the wake-up signal but does not receive the LOF signal. For example, in the high-power mode, the friendly unit transceiver 604 receives the LOF signal. Optionally, the friendly unit and is configured to switch from the low power standby mode to the high-power mode in response to the wake-up signal. The friendly unit transceiver 604 also includes a transmitter for transmitting a warning signal in response to receiving the LOF signal. The firing unit transceiver 606 includes a receiver for receiving the warning signal.

[0146] In some embodiments, the transmitter 602 for transmitting the wake-up signal is incorporated into the firing unit. This configuration may facilitate the integration of the wake-up signal transmission with the firing unit's operations, thereby streamlining the process of identifying friendly units in the line of fire.

[0147] Alternatively, the transmitter 602 of the wake-up signal may be separate from the firing unit. For example, transmitter 602 of the wake-up signal may be part of an independent fire control transmitter. This setup may facilitate the wake-up signal to be managed by a centralized fire control system, enhancing coordination and control over the firing sequence and friendly unit identification. This configuration may protect the firing unit from detection by an enemy. In some embodiments, the firing unit transceiver 606 may receive the wake-up signal and initiate a firing sequence in response.

[0148] In some embodiments, the system may be configured such that the firing unit interrupts a firing sequence upon receiving the warning signal from the friendly unit transceiver 604. This interruption can include outputting a warning and activating a firing interlock mechanism, thereby inhibiting the firing unit from firing on the friendly receiving unit.

[0149] In some embodiments, the friendly unit transceiver 604 may maintain the low power standby mode using a low-band receiver. This configuration may facilitate the friendly unit transceiver conserving power while remaining capable of detecting the wake-up signal. Optionally, the wake-up signal is a low-band signal. Additionally or alternatively, the wake-up signal may be omni direction and / or penetrating (e.g., increasing the probability of reaching any pertinent friendly unit). Alternatively or additionally, the wake-up signal may be directional and / or unidirectional and / or focused along a LOF (e.g., decreasing the need to wake up a lot of friendly units decreasing battery use and / or decreasing the probability of an enemy intercepting the wake-up signal or the response signal).

[0150] Conversely, the high-power mode of the friendly unit transceiver 604 may be maintained by a high-band receiver. The high-band receiver is optionally configured to detect the LOF signal. For example, the LOF signal may include a high-band signal. For example, the LOF signal may be a uni-directional signal directed along a LOF of the firing unit.

[0151] In some embodiments, the system may include a Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar and / or FMCW lidar in both the friendly unit transceiver 604 and the firing unit transceiver 606. The FMCW radar / lidar facilitates precise distance and speed measurements, enhancing the accuracy of friendly unit identification.

[0152] The warning signal transmitted by the friendly unit transceiver 604 may include device identifiers and authentication tags. These identifiers and tags ensure that the warning signal is reliably recognized by the firing unit transceiver 606, thereby preventing unauthorized or spoofed signals from inhibiting the firing sequence.

[0153] The firing unit transceiver 606 may be configured to inhibit firing based on the receipt of the warning signal. This configuration ensures that the firing unit does not engage in firing when a friendly unit is detected in the line of fire, thereby reducing the risk of friendly fire incidents. In some embodiments, the friendly unit transceiver 604 may transmit a low-band warning signal and / or a high-band warning signal upon receipt of the LOF signal. This dual-band response facilitates reliable communication to the firing unit transceiver 606 and / or facilitates timely and / or appropriate actions to prevent friendly fire incidents.

[0154] The firing unit transceiver 606 may include control circuitry configured to present a warning to a user when a friendly device is determined to be in the line of fire based on the receipt of the warning signal. This warning can be visual, audible, or haptic.

[0155] Additionally, the firing unit transceiver 606 may be configured to transmit a directional signal along the line of fire after transmitting the wake-up signal. This directional signal facilitates the friendly unit transceiver 604 identifying its position relative to the firing unit.

[0156] These embodiments are provided by way of example and are in no means intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0157] While the invention has been described in its preferred form or embodiment with some degree of particularity, it is understood that this description has been given only by way of example and that numerous changes in the details of construction, fabrication, and use, including the combination and arrangement of parts, may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0158] GENERAL

[0159] It is expected that during the life of a patent maturing from this application many relevant building technologies, artificial intelligence methodologies, computer user interfaces, image capture devices will be developed, and the scope of the terms for design elements, analysis routines, user devices is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.

[0160] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, some embodiments of the present invention may be embodied as a system, method, or computer program product. Accordingly, some embodiments of the present invention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit”, “module” or “system.” Furthermore, some embodiments of the present invention may take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer readable medium(s) having computer readable program code embodied thereon. Implementation of the method and / or system of some embodiments of the invention can involve performing and / or completing selected tasks manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to actual instrumentation and equipment of some embodiments of the method and / or system of the invention, several selected tasks could be implemented by hardware, by software, by firmware and / or by a combination thereof, e.g., using an operating system.

[0161] For example, hardware for performing selected tasks according to some embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a chip or a circuit. As software, selected tasks according to some embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a plurality of software instructions being executed by a computer using any suitable operating system. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, one or more tasks according to some exemplary embodiments of method and / or system as described herein are performed by a data processor, such as a computing platform for executing a plurality of instructions. Optionally, the data processor includes a volatile memory for storing instructions and / or data and / or a non-volatile storage, for example, a magnetic hard-disk and / or removable media, for storing instructions and / or data. Optionally, a network connection is provided as well. A display and / or a user input device, such as a keyboard or mouse are optionally provided as well.

[0162] Any combination of one or more computer readable medium(s) may be utilized for some embodiments of the invention. The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0163] A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband / or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms including, but not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0164] Program code embodied on a computer readable medium and / or data used thereby may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0165] Computer program code for carrying out operations for some embodiments of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object-oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages. The program code may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider). Some embodiments of the present invention may be described below with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention.

[0166] It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0167] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function / act specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0168] The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other devices to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0169] Data and / or program code may be accessed and / or shared over a network, for example the Internet. For example, data may be shared and / or accessed using a social network. A processor may include remote processing capabilities, for example available over a network (e.g., the Internet). For example, resources may be accessed via cloud computing. The term “cloud computing” refers to the use of computational resources that are available remotely over a public network, such as the internet, and that may be provided, for example at a low cost and / or on an hourly basis. Any virtual or physical computer that is in electronic communication with such a public network could potentially be available as a computational resource. To provide computational resources via the cloud network on a secure basis, computers that access the cloud network may employ standard security encryption protocols such as SSL and PGP, which are well known in the industry.

[0170] Some of the methods described herein are generally designed only for use by a computer, and may not be feasible or practical for performing purely manually, by a human expert. A human expert who wanted to manually perform similar tasks might be expected to use completely different methods, e.g., making use of expert knowledge and / or the pattern recognition capabilities of the human brain, which would be vastly more efficient than manually going through the steps of the methods described herein.

[0171] Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0172] Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging / ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging / ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween.

[0173] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0174] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

[0175] All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A method for preventing friendly fire incidents, the method comprising: operating a friendly receiving unit in a low-power standby mode; transmitting an omnidirectional wake-up signal receivable by the friendly receiving unit while the friendly receiving unit is in the low-power standby mode; receiving, by the friendly receiving unit, the wake-up signal; transitioning the friendly receiving unit from the low-power standby mode to a high-power standby mode in response to receiving the wake-up signal; transmitting a unidirectional line-of-fire (LOF) signal along a line of fire (LOF), the unidirectional LOF signal being receivable by the friendly receiving unit when the friendly receiving unit is in the high-power standby mode; receiving, by the friendly receiving unit, the unidirectional LOF signal; in response to receiving the unidirectional LOF signal, transmitting, by the friendly receiving unit, a warning signal; and based on receiving the warning signal, triggering at least one of: (i) a warning output, or (ii) a firing interlock.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein said omnidirectional wake-up signal is a low-band signal.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein said directional signal is a high-band signal.

4. The method of claim 1 , wherein said warning signal is a high-band signal.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising transmitting a low-band response signal from the receiving unit upon receipt of the wake-up signal.

6. The method of claim 1 , further wherein said transmitting a warning signal includes transmitting a directional high-band response signal from the receiving unit along a direction of the received signal.

7. The method of claim 1 , wherein receiving a high-band response signal from the receiving unit indicates that the receiving unit is in the line of fire.

8. The method of claim 5, wherein receiving a low-band response signal from the receiving unit indicates that the receiving unit is nearby.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising triggering a warning output when the receiving unit is determined to be nearby.

10. The method of claim 1 , wherein not receiving a response signal from the receiving unit indicates that the receiving unit is not in the line of fire.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising firing on an enemy position without fear of firing on the receiving unit.

12. The method of claim 1, further comprising transmitting said directional signal after a predetermined wake-up interval after transmitting said wake-up signal.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein directional signal detection and a response time are bounded within the predetermined wake-up interval.

14. The method of claim 1, wherein the transmitting the response signal from the receiving unit includes transmitting device identifiers and authentication tags.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising authenticating the response signal from the receiving unit.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising inhibiting firing unless authentication succeeds.

17. The method of claim 1, wherein inhibiting firing is by a grip safety, trigger safety, magazine disconnect safety, firing pin block, hammer block, drop safety, rotary safety, sliding tang safety, cross-bolt safety, half-cock safety, or a combination thereof.

18. The method of claim 1, further comprising timeouts and randomized back-off.

19. The method of claim 1 , further comprising returning the receiving unit from high-power standby mode to low-power standby mode in the absence of receipt the directional signal.

20. The method of claim 1, wherein the warning output is audible, visual, haptic or a combination thereof.

21. A system for preventing friendly fire incidents comprising: at least a friendly receiving unit and a firing unit, wherein each unit comprises: a low-band transceiver configured for omnidirectional transmission and reception; a high-band transceiver configured for unidirectional transmission and reception along a line of fire (LOF); and control circuitry; characterized by the friendly receiving unit is configured to: operate in a low-power standby mode; transition from the low-power standby mode to a high-power standby mode upon receiving an omnidirectional wake-up signal; detect and receive a unidirectional signal when in the high-power standby mode; and transmit a warning signal in response to receiving the unidirectional signal; and the firing unit is configured to: transmit an omnidirectional wake-up signal receivable by the friendly receiving unit in the low-power standby mode; transmit a unidirectional signal along a line of fire (LOF), which is configured to be receivable by the friendly receiving unit when it is in the high-power standby mode; receive the warning signal transmitted by the friendly receiving unit; trigger at least one of a warning output or a firing interlock mechanism based on receiving the warning signal, thereby preventing the firing unit from firing on the friendly receiving unit.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein said omnidirectional wake-up signal is a low-band signal.

23. The system of claim 21, wherein said unidirectional signal is a high-band signal.

24. The system of claim 21, wherein said warning signal is a high-band signal.

25. The system of claim 21, wherein the low-band transceiver is configured to operate in a sub- GHz frequency band.

26. The system of claim 21, wherein the high-band transceiver is configured to operate with a frequency ranging between 60 GHz to 100 GHz.

27. The system of claim 21, wherein the high-band transceiver is aligned with the line of fire.

28. The system of claim 21, wherein the response signal includes device identifiers and authentication tags.

29. The system of claim 28, wherein the control circuitry is configured to inhibit firing when authentication fails.

30. (Alternative) The system of claim 28, wherein the control circuitry is configured to inhibit firing unless authentication succeeds.

31. The system of claim 21, wherein firing is inhibited by a grip safety, trigger safety, magazine disconnect safety, firing pin block, hammer block, drop safety, rotary safety, sliding tang safety, cross-bolt safety, half-cock safety, or a combination thereof.

32. The system of claim 21, wherein the control circuitry is configured for timeouts and randomized back-off.

33. The system of claim 21, wherein the control circuitry of the receiving unit is configured to return from high-power standby mode to low-power standby mode in the absence of receipt of one or more of a high-band signal, a wake-up signal, a low band signal and a LoF signal.

34. The system of claim 21, wherein a high-band signal detection and a response time are bounded within a predetermined wake-up interval.

35. The system of claim 21, wherein at least one transceiver of the system is mounted to at least one of a vehicle, weapons platform, tactical chest rig, harness, body armor, hunting vest, paramedic uniform, bunker gear, helmet, weapon, pack, molle pouch, a weapon, a supply base, staging stations, medical facilities, base camps, or a combination thereof.

36. The system of claim 21, wherein at least one transceiver of the system is mounted to a revolver, pistol, hunting rifle, assault rifle, sniper rifle, automatic, semiautomatic, carbines, machine gun, submachine gun, shotgun, grenade launcher, rocket launcher, cannon, mortar, tank, drone, aircraft, or a combination thereof.

37. The system of claim 21, wherein the friendly receiving unit is a person, object or force serving on the same team, a protected individual, a protected object, a party allied to, fighting towards the same goal as, or on the same side as a firing unit, neutral infrastructure, neutral individuals, or a combination thereof.

38. The system of claim 21, wherein the warning is audible, visual, haptic or a combination thereof.

39. A system for identifying a friendly unit in a line of fire (LOF), comprising: a transmitter of wake-up signal; a firing unit transceiver including a transmitter of a unidirectional LOF signal; a friendly unit transceiver having a low power standby mode wherein the friendly unit transceiver receives said wake up signal but does not receive said LOF signal, a high-power standby mode wherein the friendly unit transceiver receives said LOF signal, said friendly unit transceiver configured to switch from said low power standby mode to said high power standby mode in response to said wake up signal and a transmitter for a transmitting warning signal in response to receiving said LOF signal and wherein said firing unit transceiver includes a receiver for said warning signal.

40. The system of claim 39, wherein said wake-up transmitter is included in said firing unit transceiver.

41. The system of claim 39, wherein the wake-up signal is omnidirectional..

42. The system of claim 39, wherein said transmitter of said wake up signal is a fire control transmitter.

43. The system of claim 39, wherein said firing unit transmitter receives said wake up signal and a firing unit initiates a firing sequence in response to receiving said wake up signal.

44. The system of claim 43, wherein said firing unit interrupts said firing sequence in response to receiving said warning signal.

45. The system of claim 44, wherein interrupting said firing sequence includes at least one of outputting a warning and activating a firing interlock mechanism thereby preventing the firing unit from firing on the friendly unit.

46. The system of claim 39, wherein said low power standby mode is configured to be maintained by a low-band receiver of said friendly unit transceiver.

47. The system of claim 39, wherein said high power mode is configured to be maintained by a high-band receiver of said friendly unit transceiver.

48. The system of claim 39, wherein said wake up signal is a low-band signal.

49. The system of claim 39, wherein said LOF signal is a high-band signal.

50. The system of claim 39, wherein the friendly unit transceiver and firing unit transceiver each includes a FMCW radar and / or FMCW lidar.

51. The system of claim 39, wherein said warning signal includes device identifiers and authentication tags.

52. The system of claim 39, wherein said firing unit transceiver is configured to inhibit firing based on receipt of said warning signal.

53. The system of claim 39, wherein said friendly unit transceiver is configured to transmit a low-band response signal and / or a high-band response signal upon receipt of said LOF signal.

54. The system of claim 39, wherein said firing unit transceiver includes control circuitry configured to present a warning to a user when a friendly device is determined to be in the line of fire based on receipt of said warning signal.

55. The system of claim 39, wherein said firing unit transceiver is configured to transmit a directional signal along the line of fire after transmitting of said wake up signal.

56. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising: stored instructions which, cause execution of the method of claim 1 when executed by control circuitry of a firing unit and a receiving unit.

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