Explosive device simulator

Abstract

A small explosive simulation device for tactical training. The device replicates the form, fit, and function of standard operational small explosives, such as flash bangs, including pull-pin tension, safety mechanisms, and a spoon ejection sequence. Upon activation, the device uses integrated electronics to simulate real-life delay fuses with randomized timing and wirelessly transmits signals to external simulation systems, namely, effect generators. This enables realistic small explosive training scenarios without the risk of physical harm or explosive materials.

Description

INVENTION TITLEEXPLOSIVE DEVICE SIMULATORINVENTORSTimothy Richardson and Jadon CramerCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a nonprovisional patent application under the Patent Cooperation Treaty, that makes a priority claim to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 733,080, filed on December 12, 2024, which is incorporated by reference as if fully recited herein.FIELD

[0002] The application relates to tactical training devices and, more particularly, to specifically a reusable, non-explosive simulation devices that wirelessly integrates with other training systems, including sound, light, or virtual effects simulators, to replicate real-life operational scenarios.BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Flash bang devices, also known as distraction devices or stun grenades, are critical tools used by military and law enforcement personnel for tactical entry, crowd control, and high-risk operations. These devices temporarily disorient targets by producing a loud auditory blast and an intense flash of light. While highly effective in real- world scenarios, training with live flash bangs often presents significant logistical, safety,Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device Simulator and financial challenges. Live flash bangs are classified as explosives, and their use in training requires extensive safety protocols, regulatory approvals, and significant documentation to comply with local, state, and federal laws. Additionally, the use of live flash bangs often results in high recurring costs due to the need for expendables, limited device reusability, and specialized storage requirements.

[0004] To address these challenges, the present application discloses a small explosive simulator that replicates the exact form, fit, and function of a real flash bang or other small explosive while eliminating the inherent risks and regulatory hurdles associated with real, live explosives. This advanced training tool enables tactical teams to engage in realistic, high-fidelity training exercises without the need for real explosives, making it an ideal solution for law enforcement agencies, military units, and security professionals seeking to improve operational readiness.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first exemplary embodiment of a small explosive simulator;

[0006] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the simulator of Fig. 1 ;

[0007] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the head piece of the simulator of Fig. 1 ;

[0008] FIG. 4 includes perspective side, top, and rear views of the spoon of the simulator of Fig. 1 , and

[0009] FIG. 5 is a front view of a second exemplary embodiment of a small explosive simulator.Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device SimulatorDETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific examples described by the disclosure. Other examples having different structures and operations do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure. Like reference numerals may refer to the same feature, element, or component in the different drawings.

[0011] Illustrative, non-exhaustive examples, which may be, but are not necessarily, claimed, of the subject matter according the present disclosure are provided below. Reference herein to “example” means that one or more feature, structure, element, component, characteristic and / or operational step described in connection with the example is included in at least one embodiment and / or implementation of the subject matter according to the present disclosure. Thus, the phrase “an example” and similar language throughout the present disclosure may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same example. Further, the subject matter characterizing any one example may, but does not necessarily, include the subject matter characterizing any other example.

[0012] Referring to Fig 1 ., disclosed is an exemplary embodiment of an explosive device simulator (herein, the “simulator”). The simulator is a device designed - both in form factor (including size, weight, and balance) and mechanism of operation - to effectively replicate the user experience of small explosives such as hand grenades and flash bangs. However, unlike real small explosives, the simulator does not itself require explosives and can be repeatedly reused. This eliminates the drawbacks traditionally associated with using small explosives, e.g., the need for expendables, safety concerns,Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device Simulator and regulatory barriers. Instead, the simulator is designed to operate in conjunction with one or more effect generators that generate simulations effects with much less, if any, potential for destruction. As used herein, the term “effect generator” refers to a device or a system that is configured to generate a “simulation effect”. As used herein, the term “simulation effect” refers to anything - such as a sound, flash of light, shock wave, etc. - that simulates an event that can occur in a combat environment. Examples of effect generators which may be suitable for use with the simulator include the Mobile Blast Simulator and the gunSHOT BOX available from Scenario Trainer, Inc. of Mayfield Heights, Ohio. The simulation effects created by these effect generators includes loud sounds, flashes of light, and shockwaves which collectively resemble that of real gunfire.

[0013] It is contemplated that the simulator is at least useful as a high-fidelity tactical training tool for military, law enforcement, and security applications.

[0014] Referring to Figs. 1 and 2, the embodiment shown includes a housing 20, a spoon assembly 30, and a configuration of communication and control components (more on this below). The spoon assembly 30 is received over the top end of the housing 20 and features a pull-pin mechanism for activating (i.e., triggering) the functions of the communication and control components enclosed therein. The design of the spoon assembly 30 and the housing 20 is such that the overall simulator resembles a real small explosive (in this case, the CTS model 7290-Mini flash bang).

[0015] The housing is preferably constructed from durable, impact-resistant materials capable of withstanding a wide range of training conditions and multiple training sessions. The housing may comprise a metal material composition, preferably one that is similar to the actual materials used in the real small explosives.Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device Simulator

[0016] Other embodiments of simulator may vary by utilizing different housings and spoon assemblies such that they resemble other types of small explosives, e.g., hand grenades or other flash bang models. Skilled artisans will appreciate that variations such as these do not represent a departure from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0017] Referring to the embodiment shown in Fig. 2, housing 20 includes main body 1 and bottom cap 2. Main body 1 is generally cylindrical in shape and defines a bottom-side opening and a smaller top-side opening. Bottom cap 2 can be received in / over the bottom-side opening and secured to the main body 1 via corresponding threads provided on both the main body 1 and the bottom cap 2. Attaching or removing the bottom cap 2 allows housing 20 to be closed or opened, respectively. Collectively, main body 1 and bottom cap 2 define an open interior within which various electronic components of the simulator is housed (e.g., ref. nos. 10, 13, and 14).

[0018] Main body 1 and bottom cap 2 is preferably made from an impact-resistant material capable of withstanding repeated used in rigorous training environments. In at least some embodiments, the material may be metal or hard plastic.

[0019] Referring to Figs. 2-4, spoon assembly 30 includes head piece 3, spoon 16, contact rod 6, hinge pin 7, compression spring 6, and torsion spring 11. Head piece 3 includes a cylindrical portion 32 and a mount portion 34 (best shown in Fig. 3). The cylindrical portion 32 is vertically oriented and can be inserted into housing 30 through the topside opening of main body 1 . Corresponding threads provided on the exterior of cylindrical portion 32 and the interior of the top-side opening enable the head piece 3 to be secured to the housing 20. Cylindrical portion 32 defines a hollow interior through which contact rod 6 may be inserted. When inserted, the bottom end of contact rod 6Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device Simulator extends into the interior of housing 20 and contacts the electronic components housed therein (namely, micro switch 10).

[0020] Compression spring 4 is coaxially received over contact rod 6 and is sandwiched in-between mount portion 34 and an annular flange provided on the top end of contact rod 6. When fully assembled, compression spring 4 is in a state of compression which biases contact rod 6 upward so that it abuts against the bottom side of spoon 16.

[0021] Referring to Fig. 4, spoon 16 features an elongated handle portion 40 extending downwards from a top hinge plane 42. Hinge plane 42 includes a pair of knuckles 44 that correspond with opposing protrusions 38 provided on mount portion 34 of head piece 3, thereby forming a hinge. It is noted that knuckles 44 do not fully encircle protrusions 38 which means that knuckles 44 are susceptible to becoming disengaged with protrusions 38.

[0022] Torsion spring 11 is fitted into the mount portion 34 of head piece 3 and, when fully assembled, is in a state of compression which bias spoon 16 outwards and away from housing 20. To prevent spoon 26 from immediately pivoting about the hinge, hinge pin 7 (also referred to as “removable pin”) is inserted through through-holes defined in mount portion 34 of head piece 3 which, in turn, are aligned with through-holes defined in hinge plane 42 of the of spoon 16.

[0023] In addition to a hinge pin, embodiments of the simulator may also include additional safety features such a second hinge pin or other types of safety locks to prevent accidental activation during storage or handling.

[0024] Having established the above, the mechanical aspect of simulator 100 can be understood as follows: pulling / removing hinge pin 7 allows torsion spring 11 to rotateVia EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device Simulator spoon 16 about protrusions 38 while simultaneously allowing compression spring 4 to push contact rod 6 upwards; at a certain angular position, knuckles 44 of spoon 16 are no longer able to remain engaged with protrusions 38 which causes spoon 16 to be ejected from head piece 3, resulting in sufficient vertical clearance for contact rod 6 to no longer be in contact with the electronic components within housing 20 (disengages from the micro switch 10, more on this below). It is this binary state of contact / no contact between contact rod 6 and the electronic components that serves as a trigger for the functions of the communication and control components of the simulator 100. Like with real flash bangs, a user can hold down handle portion 40 of spoon 16 after hinge pin 7 has been removed to prevent the mechanical action describe above from occurring prematurely. Moreover, simulator 100 can be reset after being used by pushing down contact rod 6 and reattaching spoon 16.

[0025] Any suitable configuration of mounting, attaching, and sealing means may be utilized to physically support and / or secure the components of a simulator. For example, in the embodiment shown these include retaining ring 5, radio tray 9, and hex screws 15 (best shown in Fig. 2). In preferred embodiments, the housing should provide for a substantially air-tight enclosure such that the internal components of the simulator are well protected from water, debris, and the like.

[0026] Turning now to the electronic components, the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 -4 includes micro switch 10 operatively connected to circuit board 13 which is supplied power by battery 14. When fully assembled, the bottom end of contact rod 6 contacts micro switch 10. Micro switch 10, in turn, is configured to detect whether there is contact and communicate that information to a control module (not shown).Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device Simulator

[0027] As used herein, the term “contact sensor” refers to any sensing device configured to detect mechanical displacement. Micro switch 10 is one example of a contact sensor. However, the simulator is not limited to any particular type of contact sensor, and micro switch 10 is provided only as a non-limiting example. Suitable contact sensors include various types of lever-actuated micro switches, such as straight-lever, hinge-lever, and roller-lever micro switches, among others.

[0028] It can be understood that a control module may be integrated with or otherwise operatively connected to circuit board 13. In embodiments of the simulator, the control module may include any suitable configuration of hardware (microprocessors, memory, etc.) capable of enabling the functions described herein.

[0029] Also integrated with or otherwise operatively connected to the circuit board, and thus the other electronic components of the simulator (namely, the control module), is a wireless communication module (not shown). The wireless communication module facilitates communication (i.e., pairing) between the simulator and external systems (namely, effect generators and other control and / or monitoring devices). Preferably, the wireless communication module would enable communication with external systems across a range of up to 100 meters from the simulator.

[0030] When the contact rod disengages from micro switch 10 (a contact sensor), the control module is configured to transmit one or more actuation signals, via the wireless communication, to one or more effect generators, thereby causing the effect generator(s) to generate effect.

[0031] In the embodiment of Figs. 1 -4, the wireless communication module includes a transmitter, receiver, and flexible antenna mounted to circuit board 13. AnnularVia EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device Simulator member 12 is seated within groove 52 formed in housing 1. The flexible antenna is wrapped around annular member 12 (such as in a coil-like fashion), and a protective sticker may be applied over the antenna to secure it in place. In preferred embodiments, the sticker is formed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), while the annular member 12 is formed of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The annular member maintains a desired spacing between the flexible antenna and housing 1 , and its polymeric composition helps to reduce signal attenuation. A non-limiting example of a flexible antenna considered to be suitable includes Product No. ANT-LPL-FPC-100, available from TE Connectivity PLC of Galway, Ireland.

[0032] In other embodiments, the flexible antenna may be provided along the base of the device rather than wrapped around annular member 12. For example, the flexible antenna may be housed within bottom cap 2, or embedded within bottom cap 2, or wrapped around the exterior of bottom cap 2.

[0033] In Fig. 2, battery 14 is depicted as being a rechargeable coin battery. While considered exemplary, this is not meant to be limiting as other embodiments may utilize different types of batteries without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, it is also contemplated that some embodiments may integrate the battery such that it is non-removable.

[0034] In some embodiments, the battery may be a CR2032 battery rated for a capacity of at least 100 mAh. For these embodiments, it is estimated that the battery should last for at least 3 years plus approx. 80,000 transmissions (sometimes referred to as “shots”).Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device Simulator

[0035] In preferred embodiments, the control module may be configured to offer multiple simulation settings to replicate various types of flash bang devices, including traditional single-bang units, multi-bang devices (e.g., 9-bangs), or customized settings to meet specific operational requirements.

[0036] In preferred embodiments, the control module may be configured to initiate a countdown timer when the micro switch (or a comparable component) no longer detects contact with the contact rod. In doing so, the timer may mimic real-life fuse delays found in live flash bangs. Preferably, the control module may also provide the option for programmed randomness (e.g., a 1 .5- to 2.5-second delay range) to simulate operational unpredictability.

[0037] In preferred embodiments, the control module may be configured such that there is an auto-sleep mode to conserve energy when not in use. For example, it may be configured such that the pin / contact rod mechanism allows the simulator to have all power usage cut while in storage, thereby enabling the battery last for extended periods of time (preferably years) in storage awaiting a pin pull.

[0038] In preferred embodiments, the wireless communication modules may be configured to operate on a secure, encrypted frequency to prevent interference or unauthorized activation.

[0039] In preferred embodiments, the simulator may include various feedback indicators — such as vibration elements or LEDs — to signal conditions like readiness, low battery, or successful activation. The simulator may also incorporate user interface features, including buttons, knobs, or a small display screen, to allow a user to program settings such as delay timing or wireless communication pairing. In these embodiments,Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device Simulator these feedback indicators and user interface components are integrated into, or mounted on, the simulator housing.

[0040] In preferred embodiments, the simulator may be configured to operate simultaneously with multiple effect generators and / or other small explosive simulators. In addition to the Mobile Blast Simulator and the gunSHOT BOX available from Scenario Trainer, Inc., the small explosive simulator disclosed herein may be used with a variety of other effect simulators, including improvised explosive device (IED) simulators, which can produce light and / or CO2or air explosive effects, as well as wearable feedback systems such as electro-tactile, impact, or haptic devices. The simulator may also be used with neuromuscular, haptic, or physiological response simulation systems, including the StressVest Viper unit available from Setcan Corporation of Winnipeg, Canada, close quarters simulation vests (CQVest), or TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) limb locking systems, each of which may be configured to deliver mild shocks, vibrations, or other forms of pain penalty feedback. Additionally, the small explosive simulator can be integrated with augmented reality or digital training systems capable of producing visual effects, and may utilize compatible digital training interfaces for augmented or virtual reality applications.

[0041] In preferred embodiments, the simulator is modular in nature such that various internal components - such as the control module, battery, wireless communication module, and contact sensor - may be replaced or upgraded as needed.

[0042] In preferred embodiments, the antenna is embedded within the body in a manner that does not interfere with the handling or operation of the device.Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device Simulator

[0043] Referring to Fig. 5, a second exemplary embodiment of the small explosive simulator 200 is disclosed. This embodiment differs from the first in that its housing is shaped to resemble an M67 fragmentation grenade. The remaining components - including the spoon assembly and the arrangement of internal electronic and communication components - are otherwise the same. The second embodiment operates in the same manner as the first. As shown by ref. no. 210, the second embodiment preferably includes an antenna positioned along the bottom side of the housing.

[0044] Any embodiment of the present invention may include any of the features of the other embodiments of the present invention. The exemplary embodiments herein disclosed are not intended to be exhaustive or to unnecessarily limit the scope of the invention. The exemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the present invention so that others skilled in the art may practice the invention. Having shown and described exemplary embodiments of the present invention, those skilled in the art will realize that many variations and modifications may be made to the described invention. Many of those variations and modifications will provide the same result and fall within the spirit of the claimed invention. It is the intention, therefore, to limit the invention only as indicated by the scope of the claims.

Claims

Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device SimulatorCLAIMSWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:Claim 1 . An explosive device simulator, comprising: a housing that defines an open interior and an opening into the interior; a control module; a contact sensor operatively connected to the control module; a wireless communication module operatively connected to the control module and configured to communicate with a effect generator; a spoon assembly comprising: a head piece received in the opening of the housing; a contact rod movable about and received within the head piece; a spoon configured to bias the contact pin against the contract sensor; and a removable pin configured to retain the spoon on the head piece; wherein: removing the removable pin allows the spoon to release from the head piece which, in turn, allows the contact rod to disengage from the contact sensor; and when the contract rod disengages from the contact sensor, the control module is configured to transmit an actuation signal, via the wireless communication module, to the effect generator.Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device SimulatorClaim 2. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , wherein the wireless signal transmission system comprises an antenna integrated into the exterior body and operates on a secure, encrypted frequency.Claim 3. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , wherein the antenna is embedded within the body in a manner that does not interfere with the handling or operation of the device.Claim 4. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , wherein an external flexible antenna is integrated into the device, wherein the antenna is housed within a dedicated channel on the exterior of the metal body and covered and disguised by a protective PVC label, incorporates an attenuation buffer positioned between the antenna and the metal body, thereby enabling the effective transmission of signals beyond the metal body's shielding, ensuring reliable communication with external receivers while maintaining the device's structural integrity and durability.Claim 5. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , wherein the wireless signal transmission system supports communication with external training systems up to 100 meters away.Claim 6. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , wherein the wireless signal transmission system is capable of pairing with multiple external devices simultaneously.Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device SimulatorClaim 7. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , wherein the device is compatible with sound, light, or video-based training systems to enhance the realism of tactical training scenarios.Claim 8. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , wherein the device is configured to emit a signal capable of triggering multiple external devices simultaneously, such as a gunfire simulation device, an IED simulator, and a visual display system.Claim 9. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , wherein the wireless signal transmission system is configured to trigger:A concussive sound effect in a compatible gunfire simulation device,A light or CO2 / Air explosive effect in an IED simulator, orA visual effect in augmented reality or digital training systems.A Pain penalty, mild shock or vibration from a Stress Vest / Viper system for the blast zone occupantsClaim 10. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , further comprising a feedback mechanism, such as a vibration or LED indicator, to signal readiness for use or low battery status.Claim 1 1 . The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , wherein the device includes a user-friendly interface for adjusting settings, such as delay timing and wireless communication pairing.Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device SimulatorClaim 12. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , wherein the countdown timer includes programmable settings that allow users to select a fixed delay or randomized delay for enhanced training variability.Claim 13. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , wherein the pull-pin activation mechanism includes:A removable safety pin; andA secondary safety mechanism to prevent accidental activation during storage or transport.Claim 14. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , wherein the countdown timer and wireless signal transmitter are activated only after the pull pin is removed and the spoon is ejected.Claim 15. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , further comprising:A manual reset mechanism, allowing the device to be reused after each activation by reattaching the spoon and reinserting the pull pin.Claim 16. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , further comprising a rechargeable battery system configured to power the internal electronics and enable multiple training activations before requiring recharging.Via EFS-Web Date of Deposit: 12 / 12 / 2025Inventors: Richardson et al. Docket No.: SCE3498-004BTitle: Explosive Device SimulatorClaim 17. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , wherein the exterior body is constructed of durable, impact-resistant materials capable of withstanding repeated training scenarios.Claim 18. The small explosive simulator of claim 1 , further comprising a modular design that allows for the replacement or upgrading of internal components, including the battery and wireless transmission module.Claim 19. A tactical training system, comprising: the small explosive simulator of claim 1 ; and at least one of: a compatible gunfire simulation device, and a compatible digital training interface for augmented or virtual reality applications.Claim 20. The tactical training system of claim 19, wherein the system allows for the synchronization of multiple simulators to provide coordinated effects in team-based training scenarios.

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