Firearm-Mounted Holographic Display for Indoor Training

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional firearms training methods require physical attendance at a range, are not suitable for small environments, and fail to simulate real-world scenarios effectively, as they often use laser-based simulation systems that do not replicate the feel of a real firearm and lack the pressure of real-world situations.

Innovation Solution

A firearms training system comprising sensors and a display mounted on a firearm to track its orientation and provide a virtual environment, allowing users to train indoors with a real firearm, simulating real-world scenarios using a portable computing device with cameras and inertial sensors, and a lens to mimic a scope, enabling realistic target practice without ammunition.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If laser-based simulation systems are used, then training can be provided outside firearms ranges, but the system requires a large target area and is expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining location flexibilityVSAvoidtarget area size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from 2D flat screens to 3D volumetric displays using holographic technology, enabling the target field to extend into depth space. This allows comprehensive target coverage without requiring large physical floor space, as targets are distributed in three-dimensional space around the shooter

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses a single compact holographic display device that can present multiple target types, distances, and configurations simultaneously in 3D space, replacing the need for large physical ranges with multiple target stations while providing enhanced training capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If laser-based simulation systems are used, then training can be provided outside firearms ranges, but the system is expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining location flexibilityVSAvoidsystem cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system creates photorealistic holographic copies of realistic targets and environments, providing authentic visual feedback without requiring physical construction of expensive target ranges. The holographic projections replicate real-world scenarios at a fraction of the cost of building physical facilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical laser ranging and detection systems with holographic optical fields that naturally provide depth perception and target feedback. This substitution simplifies the system architecture and reduces costs associated with mechanical components while enhancing training realism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If training is provided at a firearms range, then live firearms training can be provided in a safe environment, but physical attendance is required which is not practical for many persons

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining safetyVSAvoidtraining accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The holographic display acts as an intermediary between the shooter and physical target ranges, creating virtual target environments that can be accessed anywhere. This mediator provides the safety and control of structured training programs while eliminating the need for travelers to physically attend range facilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-configures multiple target scenarios, distances, and configurations in the holographic environment before training sessions. Instructors can prepare customized training programs in advance, and students can access these pre-prepared scenarios from any location without requiring travel to a physical range

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Adaptability or versatility

If training is provided using laser-based simulation systems, then training can occur outside ranges, but persons train using a training device rather than a real firearm which does not map well to real firearm experience

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining location flexibilityVSAvoidtraining realism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The holographic display creates photorealistic copies of real targets, environments, and scenarios that shooters would encounter in actual operations. This visual fidelity maintains the authenticity of the training experience while allowing the use of training firearms, as the visual feedback closely mirrors real-world conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables safe and effective firearms training in any environment, improving skill levels by using a real firearm in a simulated real-world setting, providing a realistic experience with virtual targets and scoring, thus bridging the gap between training and real-world firearm use.

Implementation Method 1

The one or more sensors may include an inertial measurement sensor. The one or more sensors may include a gyroscope.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInertial measurement: Accelerometer

Implementation Method 2

The one or more sensors may include a gyroscope.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGyroscope effect: Gyroscope

Implementation Method 3

the system includes a lens, mounted in front of the display, to mimic a scope. The lens may be configured to magnify a portion of the display and/or enable the user to focus on the display when close to the display.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical magnification: Lens

Implementation Method 4

a display, configured to be mounted to a firearm and to display a virtual environment in which the firearm may operate, the virtual environment updated according to an orientation of the firearm

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDisplay technology: Light

Data Source

PatentUS20240068782A1Virtual firearms training system
Publication Date: 2024.02.29 SIMULATION TRAINING GRP PTY LTD
  • US20240068782A1 patent drawing
  • US20240068782A1 patent drawing
  • US20240068782A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A firearms training system is provided that enables safe and efficient firearms training, e.g. in the home, using a real firearm. The system comprises: one or more sensors, configured to be mounted to the firearm and to track an orientation of the firearm; and a display, configured to be mounted to a firearm and to display a virtual environment in which the firearm may operate, the virtual environment updated according to an orientation of the firearm. The display is mounted to the firearm to in a manner to that simulates the firearm being used in the virtual environment.