EP1218687A1

EP1218687A1 - Shooting simulation apparatus

Info

Publication number: EP1218687A1
Application number: EP00964509A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Michael John Lake
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1999-10-05
Filing date: 2000-10-04
Publication date: 2002-07-03
Anticipated expiration: 2020-10-04
Also published as: GB9923387D0; DE60003831T2; WO2001025716A1; EP1218687B1; AU7543900A; DE60003831D1

Abstract

A shooting simulation apparatus (10) for use with a shot gun (22) includes a projection apparatus (12) for projecting a moving target image onto a projection surface (14) and a control arrangement for controlling the movement of the target image. The apparatus also includes an arrangement (26, 30, 40) for initiating movement of the target image (18) and a shot simulation arrangement for simulating the path of a shot fired by the gun (22). The apparatus further includes means for detecting the location of the simulated shot on the projection surface (14), the shot detection means detecting the location of the simulated shot only within a detection area on the projection surface (14), the detection area being moveable in dependence upon the movement of the target image.

Description

Shooting Simulation Apparatus

The present invention relates to shooting simulation apparatus, and particularly but not exclusively to shooting simulation apparatus for use in the sport of clay pigeon shooting.

Shooting, and in particular clay pigeon shooting, involves the development of many different skills, which are acquired over a period of time through extensive practice of shooting targets, such as clays. The process of skill acquisition requires repetition of a good technique. Eventually, the necessary skills become mentally intuitive, and this results in muscle learning, where the correct technique is used without thought. The learning period is often expensive, as it involves the cost of many hours of range fees, and thousands of cartridges and targets.

According to the present invention there is provided shooting simulation apparatus for use with a shooting device, the apparatus including: projection means for projecting a moving target image onto a projection surface; control means for controlling the movement of the target image; initiating means, in communication with the control means, for instructing the control means to commence the movement of the target image; shot simulation means, for simulating the path of a shot fired by the shooting device; and shot detection means, for detecting the location of the simulated shot on the projection surface, wherein the shot detection means may detect the location of a simulated shot only within a detection area on the projection surface, the detection area being movable in dependence upon the movement of the target image.

The shooting device is preferably a gun. The gun is preferably a shot gun, and is most preferably a shot gun suitable for use in the sport of clay pigeon shooting.

The projection means preferably comprises a first optical beam generator means for emitting a target optical beam and optical beam directing means. The first optical beam generator means is preferably a laser diode. The laser diode preferably emits a red laser beam.

An optical lens assembly may be provided in front of the laser diode, generally across the laser beam path, operable to change the diameter of the target optical beam and hence the size of the target image. The optical lens assembly preferably includes a movably mountable optical lens and a motor means operable to move the optical lens towards or away from the laser diode.

The optical beam directing means preferably comprises means for independently moving the target optical beam in each of two substantially perpendicular directions. The optical beam directing means is preferably operable to move the target optical beam across a 120° arc path, preferably in a time of less than two seconds. The optical beam directing means preferably comprises a movably mounted reflective member, movement of the reflective member causing movement of the target optical beam in one direction, and a movable arm, for mounting the first optical beam generator means thereon, movement of the arm causing movement of the target optical beam in the other direction.

Alternatively, the optical beam directing means may comprise two movably mounted reflective members, movement of each reflective member respectively causing movement of the target optical beam in each of the two directions.

Alternatively, the optical beam directing means may comprise a movable arm, for mounting the first optical beam generator means thereon, movement of the arm in each of the two directions causing related movement of the target optical beam in each of the two directions.

The or each reflective member may be a glass niirror, or may be a coating of reflective material on a substrate, such as a plastic. The or each reflective member is preferably mounted for rotational movement.

The or each reflective member is preferably rotatable under the control of a motor, such as a servo motor or a DC motor. Where there are two reflective members, each reflective member may be rotatable under the control of a separate motor, or both reflective members may be rotatable under the control of a single motor geared to provided rotational movement about both directions.

The or each reflective member is preferably rotatable between a first position and a second position in one sense or in the opposite sense. The first optical beam generator may be operable to be actuated substantially only during movement of the or each reflective member. Alternatively, the or each reflective member may be substantially continuously rotatable in one sense, the first optical beam generator preferably being operable to be actuated only for part of each complete rotation.

The control means preferably comprises a microprocessor, and may further comprise a display screen. The control means is preferably a personal microprocessor. The control means is preferably operable to control the movement of the target image across a selected one of a plurality of different paths of movement. The control means preferably further comprises selection means to enable a user to select a path of movement for the target image. There is preferably at least one path of movement of the target image for each clay pigeon shooting discipline. Preferably, the control means displays the selected path of movement on the display screen. The control means may also display a background image on the display screen, to enable the user to assess their shooting position in relation to the target and a selected background. The background image is preferably appropriate to the selected path of movement of the target image, and the selected shooting discipline.

The initiating means is preferably a voice activated switch means, which preferably comprises a microphone and an electrical signal generator means for sending a signal to the control means when a voice command is received. The initiating means is preferably an acoustic release.

Alternatively, the initiating means may be a manually operable switch means, and may comprise a microprocessor mouse button or a microprocessor keyboard key.

The shooting simulation apparatus preferably further comprises a shot simulation means, for simulating the path of a shot fired by the shooting device. The shot simulation means preferably comprises a switch means and a second optical beam generator means in communication with the switch means. The switch means is preferably actuated when a shot is fired by a user. The second optical beam generator means preferably emits an optical beam when the switch means is actuated. The switch means is preferably mountable on the shot gun trigger, such that pulling the trigger actuates the switch means and the second optical beam generator. The switch means is preferably an electrical microswitch.

The second optical beam generator means is preferably a laser diode. The wavelength of the light emitted by the shot simulation laser diode is preferably widely spaced in wavelength from the wavelength of the target optical beam. The shot simulation laser diode is preferably operable to emit an infra-red laser beam. The shot simulation laser diode is preferably operable to emit pulses of laser light. The pulses are preferably of approximately 20 milhseconds duration. The shot simulation laser diode is preferably mountable on the barrel of the shot gun, and is most preferably mountable inside a barrel of the shot gun, towards the muzzle of the shot gun.

The shot simulation means preferably further comprises a signal emitter means in communication with the switch means for sending a signal to a signal receiver means on the control means, for indicating to the control means that a shot has been fired. The signal emitter means is preferably mountable on a barrel of the shot gun, and is most preferably mountable towards the muzzle of the shot gun. The signal emitter means is preferably a third optical signal generator means, and is most preferably in infra-red hght emitting diode. The signal receiver means is preferably a first optical detector means suitable for detecting infra-red hght.

The shot simulation means preferably further includes an electrical power supply means mountable on the shot gun for supplying power to the shot simulation laser diode and to the LED. The electrical power supply means is preferably a battery. Preferably the weight of the battery is substantially equal to the combined weight of the shot simulation laser diode and the LED. Preferably the battery is mountable on the trigger side of the balance point of the shot gun, such that the weight of the battery counter balances the combined weight of the shot simulation laser diode and LED provided towards the muzzle of the shot gun, thereby ensuring that the shot gun remains balanced.

The apparatus may further include recoil simulation means mountable dn the shot gun, to simulate recoil on firing a shot. The recoil simulation means preferably comprises a gun cartridge containing compressed gas, such as air. The cartridge is preferably loadable into the user's gun in the same location as a standard cartridge is loaded. The compressed gas in the cartridge is preferably released when the gun is fired, thereby simulating the recoil experienced when a standard cartridge is fired by the gun.

An audio speaker means may be provided in communication with the control means for emitting an audible signal when the gun is fired. The audible signal preferably simulates the noise made by a shot gun on firing.

The shooting simulation apparatus preferably further comprises shot detection means, for detecting the location of a simulated shot on the projection surface. The shot detecting means preferably comprises a second optical detector means for detecting the shot simulation laser diode beam on the projection surface. The second optical detector means is preferably a CMOS area image sensor having an infra-red filter member provided thereacross, or may alternatively comprise a charged coupled device. The second optical detector means is preferably provided within the projection means, most preferably generally alongside the first optical beam generator means. The second optical detector means preferably has about a 20° field of vision, preferably generally around the target optical beam.

The shot detection means is preferably in communication with the control means, for sending information to the control means regarding the location of the shot simulation laser diode beam. The control means preferably comprises processing means for determining the location of the simulated shot with respect to the location of the target beam on the projection surface. The estimate location of the simulated shot and the target image may be displayed on the display screen, thereby enabling the user to see whether the target image was hit by the simulated shot, or whether the target image was missed, and if so, the location of the simulated shot in relation to the target image.

The shooting simulation apparatus may further comprise an image projecting means for projecting the background image onto the projection surface.

The shooting simulation apparatus may further comprise measuring means for determining the distance between the projection means and the projection surface. The measuring means is preferably sonar device, such as an ultrasonic measuring device.

The shooting simulation apparatus may comprise a plurality of projection means to thereby enable a plurality of target images to be projected onto the projection surface.

The control means preferably includes a means whereby the user may create and edit the data necessary for the generation of targets, their display and their projection. Such means are preferably in the form of one or more computer programs runnable on a personal computer. The control means preferably includes means for simulating doubles shooting as well as single shooting. The control means may include means for simulating on-report doubles, where the release of the second target takes place when the user fires at the first, and simultaneous doubles where both targets are released simultaneously.

The target images for simultaneous doubles are preferably projected by separate projection means, one for each target.

Alternatively, the target images for simultaneous doubles may be projected by one projection means which projects the first target image and then immediately switches to projecting the further second target image when the user fires at the first.

The control means preferably includes a visible indication of readiness to shoot. This is required for many shooting disciplines, particularly Olympic ones. The visible indication is preferably a multi-colour hght emitting diode (LED).

The control means preferably includes a delay mechanism which may be used to impose a delay between the time of initiating the target projection and the actual projection. Such a delay mechanism is required for many shooting disciplines, particularly Olympic ones which require a random delay of between 0 and 3 seconds before the target is released. The delay mechanism preferably includes a random number generator.

The control means preferably includes a means where the firmware and software controlling the microprocessors may be changed at any time by the user with updated data provided for that purpose. This form of updating may increase the life of products developed from the present invention and provide the user with new features as and when they become available.

The control means preferably includes independent control apparatus for a personal computer, such that the shooting disciphne and target may be selected, the release of the simulated target initiated and the location of the shot detected and displayed, using the control apparatus. The independent control apparatus is preferably a remote control apparatus.

The control means preferably includes means for controlling access to the shooting simulation apparatus. The access control means may include a Smartcard and associated reader/writer mechanism. The Smartcard is preferably capable of storing shooting credits, which may or may not be charged for, such that the control means may reduce the number of credits by one or more each time a shot is taken and cease to function when no credits remain.

Alternatively the control means may store the number of shots taken on the Smartcard so that charging may take place after shooting is finished.

The Smartcard is preferably also able to store data about the user, shot gun, cartridges and other factors so that the user can create and edit such data so that the Smartcard may be used to tailor the simulation apparatus to such data.

The Smartcard preferably includes security features to prevent misuse.

According to the present invention there is further provided a method for simulating shooting, the method including the steps of projecting a moving target image onto a projection surface and controlling the movement of the target image and wherein movement of the target image may be initiated by a signal from a user; simulating the path of a shot fired by a shooting device; and detecting the location of the simulated shot onto the projection surface, wherein the shot detection means may detect the location of a simulated shot only within a detection area on the projection surface, the detection area being movable in dependence upon the movement of the target image. Preferably the target image is produced by a target optical beam, which may be a red laser beam.

The method may include the step of moving the target optical beam in either or both of two substantially perpendicular directions.

The method may include the step of generating the optical beam using an optical beam generating means, which may be a laser diode. The method may include the step of moving the target optical beam by moving the optical beam generator means. The method may include the step of reflecting the target optical beam from a moveably mounted reflective member. The method may include the step of moving the reflective member to cause movement of the target optical beam.

The method may include the step of actuating the optical beam generator substantially only during movement of the reflective member. Alternatively, the reflective member may be substantially continuously rotated in one sense, the first optical beam generator being actuated only for part of each complete rotation.

The method may include the use of a control means to control the movement of the target image across the projection surface. The target image may be controlled so as to move across a selected one of a plurality of different paths of movement. The method may include the selection of one path of movement for the target image.

The method may include the display of the selected path of movement on a display means of the control means. The target shown on the display means may change size as it moves along the selected path of movement, to thereby provide a user with information relating to the distance of the target from the user, the user watching the movement of the target on the display means before taking up position and shooting at the target image on the projection surface. The method may further include displaying numerical distance data on the display means during the display of the selected path of movement, the user watching the movement of the target on the display means before taking up position and shooting at the target image on the projection surface. The method may further include the display of a background image on the display means, to enable the user to assess their shooting position in relation to the target selected background.

The method may include the step of initiating the movement of the target image using a voice activated switch means. Alternatively, the movement may be initiated by a manually operable switch means which may include a microprocessor mouse button or a microprocessor keyboard key.

The method preferably further includes the step of simulating a shot fired by a shooting device. The method may include the step of providing an optical beam when a switch means is actuated by a user. Actuation of the switch means may be caused by the user pulling a trigger of the shooting device. The wavelength of the light in the second optical beam is preferably spaced from the wavelength of the light of the target optical beam. Preferably the second optical beam includes pulses of laser infra-red hght, which may be of approximately 20 milliseconds in duration.

The method may further include the step of sending a signal to a signal receiver means on the control means, for indicating to the control means that a shot has been fired. Preferably the sending of the signal is initiated by the pulling of the trigger of the shot gun. The signal preferably includes infra-red hght. The signal is preferably detected by an optical detector means associated with the control means.

The method preferably further includes the step of detecting the location of the second optical beam on the projection surface. The method may include the use of an optical detector means for detecting the second optical beam on the projection surface. The method may include the step of processing the output of the shot detection means to determine whether the simulated shot would have hit the target. The step of processing preferably includes calculating the displacement of the second optical beam from the location which the target would have reached by the time the simulated shot reached the same range as the target. The method may include the step of displaying the estimated location of the simulated shot and the estimated location of the target, thereby enabling the user to see whether the target image was hit by the simulated shot.

Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 is a schematic plan view of a shooting simulation apparatus according to the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a schematic side view of a shooting simulation apparatus according to the present invention;

Fig. 3 is a diagrammatic representation of a projection means for use in the shooting simulation apparatus of Figs. 1 and 2;

Fig. 4 is a diagrammatic representation of an alternative projection means for use in the shooting simulation apparatus of Figs. 1 and 2;

Fig. 5 is a diagrammatic representation of a shot gun for use with the apparatus of Fig. 1;

Fig. 6 is a diagrammatic representation of one path of movement of the target image across the projection surface of the apparatus of Fig. 1;

Fig. 7A is an example of the simulator control language for communication between the control means and projection means of Fig. 1; Fig. 7B is an example of a set of further/alternative commands for the simulator control language;

Fig. 8A is a diagrammatic side view and Fig. 8B a diagrammatic top plan view of an alternative projection means for use in a shooting simulation apparatus according to the present invention;

Fig. 9A is a diagrammatic side view and Fig. 9B a diagrammatic top plan view of an alternative projection means for use in a shooting simulation apparatus according to the present invention;

Fig. 10 is a diagrammatic representation of one path of movement of the target image across the projection surface of the shooting simulation apparatus according to the invention, showing the field of view of the image sensor and the simulated spread of shot;

Fig. 11 is a diagrammatic representation of a muzzle insert used in the apparatus of the invention; and

Fig. 12 is a diagrammatic representation of a remote control for use with the apparatus of the present invention.

Referring to the drawings, there is provided a shooting simulation apparatus 10. The apparatus 10 includes a projection means 12 for projecting a moving target image onto a projection surface 14. The projection means 12, shown in Fig. 3, includes an optical beam generator, in the form of a laser diode 24, which emits a red laser beam. A mirror 30 is located in alignment with the laser diode such that a laser beam produced by the laser diode is reflected by the mirror and directed towards the projection surface.

The laser diode 24 is mounted on a swinging arm 26, which is able to swing across the plane of the paper, about a pivot point 28 located below the mirror 30. The mirror 30 is mounted on an axle 32 supported by bearings 34. The axle 32 is rotatable under the control of a motor 36.

In use, the swinging arm 26 is able to pivot about the pivot point 28 such that its distal end 26A moves between positions A and B, thus altering the angle at which the laser beam emitted by the laser diode 24 hits the mirror 30. The laser beam is reflected by the mirror 30 and directed towards the projection surface 14. As the angle of the laser beam changes, the target image 18 formed by the laser beam on the projection surface 14, moves from right to left across the projection surface 14.

The motor 36 is able to rotate the axle 32 in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction, i.e. bringing the lower edge 30a of the mirror towards the laser diode 24 or away from the laser diode respectively. This causes the laser beam to be directed higher or lower on the projection surface.

The projection means 12 is operated under the control of a microprocessor 40. The microprocessor 40 controls the movement of the swinging arm 26 and mirror 30 in order to move the target image 18 along a selected path of movement 42 across the projection surface 14. For example, to create a path which mimics the path of flight of a clay pigeon, the swinging arm 26 is gradually pivoted such that its distal end moves between positions A and B, as described above. Then while the swinging arm 26 is moving between positions A and B the mirror 30 is rotated on the axle 32, firstly in the anticlockwise direction, i.e. moving the lower edge 30a of the mirror 30 in the direction out of the page, in order to move the target image 18 in an upward direction across the projection surface, and subsequently in a clockwise direction to move the target image in a downward direction across the projection surface. The combined effect of the motion of the laser diode 24 and the mirror 30 is to move the target image 18 across the projection surface 14 in an upwardly arced path 42, as shown in Fig. 6. The shape of the path 42 is the same as that travelled by a real clay pigeon. The user's experience of shooting real clay pigeons enables the user to estimate the simulated distance to the simulated target from the shape of the path 42. Information relating to a plurahty of different paths of movement 42 of the target image 18 is stored within the microprocessor 40. The user 16 may select a path of movement 42 from a menu on a display screen, using either the microprocessor keyboard or mouse. Following selection of a path of movement, the path 42 is displayed on the display screen. In addition to the information relating to the available paths of movement of the target image 18, information relating to the shooting terrain, across which the target image 18 travels, is also stored by the microprocessor 40, and may be displayed on the display screen, thereby enabhng the user to assess their shooting position in relation to the target and the background terrain. To assist the user 16 in estimating the simulated distance to the target image 18, the size of the target shown on the display screen changes as the target moves along the selected path 42 displayed on the display screen. Numerical distance data may also be displayed on the display screen alongside the path 42, to assist the user 16 in estimating the simulated distance to the target image 18.

In order to generate the path 42 of the target image 18, the microprocessor 40 takes the following variables into account: the size, shape and weight of the clay target; the altitude of the simulated shooting range; wind direction and strength; the distance of the user 16 from the projection means 12; and the height of the projection means 12 above ground level.

An ultrasonic measuring device (not shown) may be provided on the projection means 12, to enable the distance between the projection means 12 and the projection surface 14 to be measured.

An acoustic release 20 is provided for initiating the movement of the target image 18. The acoustic release 20 comprises a microphone and an electrical signal generator device, and is in communication with the control microprocessor 40. The microphone in the acoustic release 20 is sensitive to a voice command from a user 16, and when a voice command is received by the microphone the electrical signal generator is activated, and a signal is sent to the control microprocessor 40, thereby signalling to the microprocessor 40 that movement of the target image 18 should commence. In particular, when the shooting simulation apparatus 10 is being used in the sport of clay pigeon shooting, the acoustic release 20 is sensitive to the user shouting "pull", as they would when out on a shooting range.

Referring to Fig. 5, the shooting simulation apparatus 10 additionally comprises shot simulation means, provided on a shot gun 22, for simulating the path of a shot fired by the shot gun 22. The shot simulation means comprises an electrical microswitch 44 provided on the trigger 46 of the shot gun 22, and an infra-red laser diode 48 provided within one barrel 50 of the shot gun 22, towards the muzzle 52 of the shot gun. A battery is also provided within an enclosure 54 on the shot gun 22 for providing electrical power to the microswitch 44 and the infra-red laser diode 48. The infra-red laser diode 48 is in electrical communication with the electrical microswitch 44, such that when the trigger 46 of the shot gun is pulled, the microswitch 44 is thrown, and the infra-red laser diode 48 is actuated. The infra-red laser diode 48 emits pulses of infra-red light, the pulses being of approximately 20 milliseconds duration.

Referring again to Fig. 3, shot detection means, in the form of a CMOS area image sensor 38, are provided on the swinging arm 26. The shot sensor 38 is provided on the swinging arm 26 generally adjacent to the laser diode 24. The shot sensor 38 detects when a simulated shot has been fired by the shot gun 22 and detects the location of a simulated shot on the projection surface 14.

An infra-red filter 64 is provided across the face of the CMOS sensor 38, to ensure that the sensor 38 is sensitive only to infra-red hght, as emitted by the infra-red laser diode 48 on the shot gun 22. The shot sensor 38 has approximately a 20° field of vision around the target beam emitted by the laser diode 24. As the target image 18 moves across the projection surface 14, the field of vision of the shot sensor 38 correspondingly moves across the projection surface 14. Because the majority of the shots will either hit the target image 18, or miss the target image 18 by a small amount, it is only necessary for the shot sensor 38 to look for shots within a small region around the target image 18.

The shot sensor 38 is in communication with the control microprocessor 40, and passes a signal to the microprocessor 40 upon detection of the shot simulation beam from the infra-red laser diode 48. The information is then processed by the microprocessor 40 in order to determine the location of the simulated shot with respect to the location of the target image 18. In order to determine whether or not the simulated shot has hit the target image 18, the processing carried out by the microprocessor 40 takes into account various parameters relating to the target, the shot gun and the shot to be simulated. These may include one or more of the following: the length of the shot gun barrel; the type of choke used in the barrel; the size of the shot to be simulated; the weight of the shot to be simulated; the muzzle velocity of the shot to be simulated; and the trajectory and speed of the target to be simulated. These variables enable the microprocessor 40 to predict the size and shape of the simulated ball of shot as it reaches the same range as the simulated target. From this, the microprocessor 40 can calculate the lateral and vertical displacement of the shot simulation beam, on the projection surface 14, from the location which the simulated target will have reached by the time the simulated shot has reached the same range as the simulated target. The microprocessor can thereby determine whether the simulated shot has hit or missed the simulated target, and if the simulated target has been missed, by how far the target was missed by the simulated shot, and in which direction relative to the simulated target, the simulated shot was travelling.

A signal emitter means, in the form of an infra-red hght emitting diode 56 is provided on the other barrel 58 of the shot gun, towards the muzzle 52 of the shot gun (see Fig. 5). The infra-red LED 56 is also in communication with the electrical microswitch 44, and is powered by the battery 54. When the trigger 46 is pulled, and the microswitch 44 thrown, the infra-red LED 56 is actuated and emits an infra-red optical signal, for receipt by an optical detector 60, in communication with the control microprocessor 40. Receipt of a signal from the infra-red LED 56 by the optical detector 60 provides an indication to the control microprocessor 40 that a shot has been fired by the shot gun 22.

The electrical microswitch 44, infra-red laser diode 48, battery 54, and infra-red LED 56 are arranged on the shot gun 22 such that the combined weight of the infra-red laser diode 48 and infra-red LED 56 are counter-balanced by the weight of the microswitch 44 and the battery 54, so that the balance of the shot gun 22 about its balance point 62 is maintained. It is important that this condition is met, so that when the user's shot gun has the aforementioned parts of the shooting simulation apparatus 10 provided on it, the user's shot gun feels the same as when the user is using an unadorned shot gun.

An audio speaker 66 is provided in communication with the control microprocessor 40, and emits an audible signal when the shot gun 22 is fired, to simulate the noise made by a shot gun on firing.

Recoil simulation means in the form of a gun cartridge 68 containing compressed air may be loaded into the shot gun 22, in the manner in which a standard cartridge would be loaded into the shot gun. When the shot gun 42 is fired, a firing mechanism within the shot gun 22 impacts on one end of the cartridge 68, causing the compressed air to be released, and thereby simulating the recoil experienced from a standard cartridge as fired by a shot gun.

A background image projector 70 may also be provided, in communication with the control microprocessor 40, for projecting the selected background image onto the projection surface 14. Although the target image 18 may be located a relatively short distance from the user, it is necessary for the user to fire the gun as if the target was located as it would be on a clay pigeon shooting range. The background image helps the user to make this adjustment. The target image 18 moves across the projected background image and past specific objects within the background image. By knowing the distance represented by these objects the user 16 can judge the simulated distance to the target image 18. It is also helpful if the user has experience in clay pigeon shooting, such that he knows by experience how far away the target should be.

At the start of each shooting session a calibration shot is made using the shooting simulation apparatus 10, to enable the control microprocessor 40 to calculate any misalignment between the sights on the shot gun 22 and the simulated shot laser beam emitted by the infra-red laser diode 48. The microprocessor 40 can then automatically compensate for any misalignment during actual use of the shooting simulation apparatus. The information collected from the calibration shot also provides the microprocessor 40 with additional information necessary for the microprocessor 40 to be able to calculate whether or not the simulated shot has hit the target image 18.

To commence use of the shooting simulation apparatus 10, the user 16 selects a path of movement 47 for the target image 18, and a background across which the target image 18 will travel, from an on-screen menu, or by use of appropriate commands entered into the microprocessor 40. The selected background and path of movement of the target image 18 will then be displayed on the microprocessor screen, to assist the user 16 in preparing for the shot.

The user 16 stands behind the projection means 12 with the muzzle 52 of the shot gun 22 positioned directly above the projection means 12, to thereby enable the angular position of the gun barrel to be co-ordinated with the angular position of the target image 18. The user 16 then sets the shot gun 22 ready to fire a simulated shot at the target image 18. When the user is ready, the user shouts "pull", which is detected by the acoustic release 20. The acoustic release 20 sends a signal to the control microprocessor 40 to instruct the control microprocessor 40 to commence movement of the target image 18 along the selected path of movement across the projection surface 14. The control microprocessor 40 activates the shot simulation laser diode 24, and causes the mirror 30 and swinging arm 26 to undergo appropriate movement in order to cause the target image 18 to move through the selected path of movement 47. The control microprocessor 40 simultaneously primes the shot sensor 38 to look for the simulated shot signal, from the shot simulation laser diode 48, on the projection surface 14.

The user 16 follows the target image 18 through the sights on the shot gun 22, as he would a clay target and fires a shot at an appropriate time, by pulling the trigger 46 on the shot gun 22. When the trigger 46 is pulled, the electrical microswitch 44 is actuated, causing the shot simulation laser diode 48 to activate, and emit pulses of infra-red laser hght towards the projection surface 14. Pulling of the trigger 46 simultaneously activates the signal emitter LED 56, which sends an infra-red light signal to the infra-red optical detector 60, in communication with the microprocessor 40, to indicate to the microprocessor 40 that a shot has been fired by the shot gun 22. The microprocessor 40 then commences watching for a signal from the shot sensor 38, to indicate that a shot has been detected, by the shot sensor 38 detecting the location of the shot simulation laser diode 24 on the projection surface 14. Pulling of the trigger 46 also causes the simulated recoil cartridge 68 to discharge the compressed air stored within it, to simulate the recoil of the gun on firing, and the audio speaker 66 emits a signal simulating the firing of the gun.

The microprocessor 40 then processes the information received regarding the location of the shot simulation laser diode beam and the corresponding location of the target image 18 on the projection surface 14. The stored information relating to the target, the shot gun and the shot is included in the calculation, in order to determine whether the simulated shot hit the target image 18, and if the target image 18 was missed by the simulated shot, the microprocessor 40 calculates where in relation to the target image 18 the simulated shot was fired. The microprocessor must know how far away from the user the target is intended to be, in order to take into account how far ahead of the target the user should have fired (to take into account the distance travelled by the target while the "shot" is travelling towards it).

An alternative projection means 72 is shown in Fig. 4, the same reference numerals being used for corresponding features. The projection means 72 comprises a swinging arm 74 which is movable across the plane of the page from position x to y, and in the direction into and out of the page. A shot simulation laser diode 24 is provided on the swinging arm 74, and is directed towards a mirror 76, through a lens 78. Movement of the lens 78, under the control of a motor (not shown), towards or away from the laser diode 24 causes the diameter of the laser beam emitted by the laser diode 24 to change. Movement of the swinging arm 74 from position x to position y causes a change in the angle at which the laser beam emitted by the laser diode 74 hits the mirror 76. The laser beam is then reflected by the mirror 76 onto the projection surface 14, on which it moves in a direction right to left. Movement of the swinging arm 74 in a direction into the page, causes the laser beam emitted by the laser diode 24 to move generally downwardly across the mirror, and thus generally upwardly across the projection surface 14.

Movement of the lens 78 causes the size of the target image 18 to change. An increase in the size of the target image 18 as it travels along its path of movement 42 indicates to the user 16 that the simulated target is moving towards the user 16. A decrease in the size of the target image 18 indicates that the target is moving away from the user 16.

A shot sensor 38 is provided on the swinging arm 74, generally adjacent to the laser diode 24, for detecting the beam from the shot simulation laser diode 48 on the projection surface 14. The infra-red light from the shot simulation laser diode 48 is reflected from the projection surface 14, and is directed onto the shot sensor 38 via the mirror 76 and lens 80. The movement of the swinging arm 74 and the lens 78 is controlled by the microprocessor 40, in order to move the target image 18 across a selected path of movement, as described above.

The projection means 12, 72 is controlled by the microprocessor 40 using a simulator control language (SCL), as shown for example in Fig. 7. The simulator control language is a command and response language in which the commands are in the form command byte followed by parameter byte(s). The command byte and parameter values are binary. The commands shown by way of example in Fig. 7, are as follows:

Command 00: places the projection means 12, 72 into a default state, in which the laser diode 24 is off, the mirror 30 and/or swinging arm 26,74 are positioned for the start of a path of movement 42 of the target image 18, and the audio speaker 66 is off.

Command 01: enables the laser diode 24 to be switched on and off; 0 = off; 1 =on.

Command 02: enables the optical beam emitted by the laser diode 24, and hence the target image 18, to be moved in two perpendicular directions.

Command 03: suitable tone frequencies and durations are selected for the audio speaker 66.

Command 05: requests a session key from the projection means 12, 72.

Command 06: provides set-up data encrypted using the session key and a suitable encryption algorithm, such as Twofish. This command is rejected if Command 05 is not used immediately prior to it. The set-up data includes features supported by this projection means 12, 72.

Command 07: information is requested from the projection means 12, 72 by the microprocessor 40. The information is encrypted using the supplied key and a suitable encryption algorithm such as Twofish. The information consists of data such as the type of projection means 12, 72, the firmware version number loaded on the projection means 12, 72 and features supported by the projection means 12, 72.

Command 08: instructs the projection means 12, 72 to delete its memory.

Command 09: starts the transfer of a shooting disciphne file.

Command 10: transfers a discipline file which contains details of each shooting disciphne and target, and includes all the co-ordinates necessary for the projection means 12, 72 to generate a simulated target.

Command 11: ends the transfer of a shooting discipline file.

Command 12: requests the projection means 12, 72 to calculate the distance between it and the projection surface 14.

Command 13: sends a command to the auxiliary port of the projection means 12, 72. The auxiliary port enables the projection means 12, 72 to be connected to a second projection means, thereby enabhng a plurality of projection means, and hence target images, to be controUed by the microprocessor 40.

Command 128: indicates that the shot gun 22 has been fired and reports the lateral and vertical deviation of the simulated shot from the target.

Command 129: indicates that the acoustic release 20 has heard a sound above its threshold. This information is passed to the microprocessor 40 to indicate that movement of the target image 18 should commence.

Command 130: this is an error message. The projection means 12, 72 uses this command to inform the microprocessor 40 that a suitable message can be displayed for the user 16.

An alternative projection means 88 is shown in Figs. 8 A and 8B, the same reference numerals being used for corresponding features. In this embodiment the laser diode 24 includes a spacer 86 and lens 78 and is mounted alongside a CMOS image sensor pixel array 38, an infra-red filter 64, a spacer 85 and a lens 80. This entire assembly is mounted with a motor 82 in an enclosure 84 which is itself mounted on a bracket 83 on a motor 81.

In use, the motor 81 is able to rotate the bracket 83 and the enclosure 84 through an arc of 180" horizontally. The motor 82 is able to rotate itself and the enclosure 84 around its own axis and the horizontal axis of the bracket 83 thus enabhng the enclosure 84 to rotate through an arc of 180° vertically. The enclosure 84, with the laser diode 24 and the image sensor 38, is thus able to undergo horizontal and vertical movement. This enables the laser diode 24 to project a target image which travels along a path 42 such as that shown in Fig. 10.

The combined movements of motor 81 and motor 82 enable the projection means 88 to project a spot of laser hght from the laser diode 24 at any point on a vertical surface or horizontal surface 14 in front of or above the user.

Because the image sensor 38 is mounted alongside the laser diode, it detects light within a detection area 92 on the projection surface, the detection area tracking the target image 93. The image sensor 38 has approximately a rectangular field of vision around the target beam emitted by the laser diode 24. As the target image 18 moves across the projection surface 14, the field of vision of the image sensor 38 correspondingly moves across the projection surfaces 14 (see Fig. 10).

The image sensor 38 is under the control of a microprocessor 87 which continually monitors the images falling on the image sensor pixel array 24 to detect the location and size of any bright spot of hght falling within its field of view (i.e. within the detection area 93). An infra-red filter 64 in front of the image sensor 24 ensures that the image sensor 38 is primarily sensitive to infrared hght such as that emitted by the second optical beam generator 48 which is placed in the end of the barrel 50 of the shot gun 22. An alternative projection means 91 is shown in Figs. 8A and 8B. This is a modified version of the projection means 88 shown in Figs. 8 A and 8B with the addition of two mirrors 90 arranged such that an image arriving on path 89 is reflected through lens 80 to the image sensor 38. This enables the 'view' of the image sensor 38 to be genuinely coaxial with the projected target.

Fig. 11 shows the muzzle 52 of the shot gun 22 in more detail. The infrared laser diode 56, a spacer 99 and a lens 100 are provided towards the muzzle 52 within one barrel 50 of the shot gun 22. A soft insertion, general oval, plastic ring 94 is designed to fit a variety of barrel calibres, with or without chokes, and to ensure perfect alignment of the laser diode 56 with the longitudinal axis of the barrel 50 because of the disc shaped flat alignment moulding 97.

Referring also to Figs. 5 and 11, a battery, microprocessor and associated electronics, including an indicator LED, are provided within the enclosure 54 on the shot gun 22 for providing electrical power to the 'microswitch 44 and the second optical beam generator 52. The infra-red laser diode 56 is in electrical communication with a microprocessor in enclosure 54 such that when the microswitch 44 on the trigger is pressed the infra-red laser diode 56 is actuated. Under the control of the microprocessor in the enclosure 54 the infra-red laser diode 56 emits pulses of infra-red light for approximately 30 milliseconds duration and with a maximum of two such pulses within any 10 second period.

Apparatus according to the invention may further include a remote control device 101, including a Smartcard reader/writer 104, a display 102 for showing menus and the results of each shot and buttons 103 for selecting disciplines or targets.

At the time when the microswitch 44 is pressed and a spot of infra-red hght 93 is detected by the image sensor 38 and its microprocessor 87, the control microprocessor 40 takes into account data read from a Smartcard inserted in the Smartcard reader/writer 104. The data relates to the shot gun and cartridge being used (gun type, barrel length, barrel chokes used, muzzle velocity, powder type, powder amount, shot type, shot weight, etc.) and is used to calculate the time which would be taken for the shot to reach the same range as that of the target 18. The microprocessor 40 then calculates the point 92 where the target would be by the time the shot arrived (see Fig. 10). The microprocessor 40 takes into account the data associated with the shot gun and cartridge to calculate the spread of the shot 94 when it reaches the target area. If the onwardly calculated target position 92 lies within the spread of shot 94 then the shot is counted as a hit.

The microprocessor 40 can thereby determine whether the simulated shot has hit or missed the simulated target, and if the simulated target has been missed, by how far the target was missed by the simulated shot, and in which direction relative to the simulated target, the simulated shot was travelling.

A multi-colour LED 105 (see Figs. 8A and 9A) is provided to display status information about the system and to indicate ready-to-fire status to the user.

The multi-colour LED 105 is used in conjunction with a random number generator within microprocessor 40 to generate any random delay required between the shot being initiated and the target being projected. This feature is required for Olympic and other shooting disciphnes.

The microprocessor 40, which may be a Personal Computer, may be used to control the shooting simulation apparatus and provide facihties for the creation, editing, storage and processing of data relating to target trajectories, three dimensional virtual reality range displays, shot gun data (type, barrel length, chokes used, etc.), cartridge data (muzzle velocity, powder used, shot type and weight, etc.) and environmental data (wind speed, wind direction, wind type and general weather conditions, etc.).

The microprocessor 40 also provides means to enable the user to select a disciphne or individual target and provide a three dimensional preview of the target area, including the target and shot trajectories, prior to and after the shot is taken.

The microprocessor 40 may also provide a digital simulation of the target area as seen by the image sensor 38. This simulation shows the location of the target when the shot reached it, the exact centre of the shot and the spread of the shot. The microprocessor 40 may also analyse the location of each shot in relation to the position of the target and provide specific advice on how the user may improve his or her skills.

The microprocessor 40 may also provide means of downloading a sub-set of its entire target range into the memory of the remote control 101.

The microprocessor 40 may provide means to enable the organisation of competition shooting using the shooting simulation apparatus, and may enable access to the shooting simulation apparatus to be controlled or charged for by the use of Smartcards written to or read from using the Smartcard reader/writer 104.

The microprocessor 40 may further provide means for the user to obtain further target data and updates to software and microprocessor firmware via the Internet and means for downloading any changes to firmware directly to the remote control processor 101 and the image sensor processor 87.

The remote control 101 may carry out many of the functions of the microprocessor 40.

The described embodiments thus provide shooting simulation apparatus 10 for projecting a simulated target onto a suitable projection surface, the target being moved across the surface along the same angular flight path and at the same angular speed as a real clay target. A shot from a shot gun 22 may be simulated, and the accuracy of the shot with respect to the simulated target image can be assessed, and displayed to a user. It will be appreciated that the invention enables the skills of clay pigeon shooting to be practised without the use of real cartridges and clay targets, and thus avoids the associated costs. It will also be appreciated that the apparatus may be used with the user's own shot gun, enabhng the user to use the apparatus as a training aid for the sport of clay pigeon shooting.

Because the shot detection means follows the simulated target, the target may be projected onto a projection surface in front of or above the user.

It will be appreciated that the invention may be used in connection with many different types of shooting disciphnes, in addition to the described application with respect to clay pigeon shooting. It will also be appreciated that the SCL commands may be different to those described here. The SCL commands at least in part depend upon the projection means used, which may also be different to those described.

The microprocessor may be provided within the projection means. A plurahty of projection means 12, 72 may be used together, under the control of one or more controllers 40, to thereby enable a plurahty of target images 18 to be projected onto the projection surface 14.

Whilst endeavouring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of the invention believed to be of particular importance it should be understood that the Applicant claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and/or shown in the drawings whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon.

Claims

1. Shooting simulation apparatus for use with a shooting device, the apparatus including: projection means for projecting a moving target image onto a projection surface; control means for controlling the movement of the target image; initiating means, in communication with the control means, for instructing the control means to commence the movement of the target image; shot simulation means, for simulating the path of a shot fired by the shooting device; and shot detection means, for detecting the location of the simulated shot on the projection surface, wherein the shot detection means may detect the location of a simulated shot only within a detection area on the projection surface, the detection area being movable in dependence upon the movement of the target image.

2. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the shot detection means is mounted so as to be movable with the projection means.

3. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the shot detection means is movable alongside or colinear with the projection means.

4. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the shooting device is a shot gun suitable for use in the sport of clay pigeon shooting.

5. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein projection means comprises a first optical beam generator means for emitting a target optical beam and optical beam directing means.

6. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the first optical beam generator means is a laser diode.

7. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim , wherein an optical lens assembly is provided in front of the laser diode, generally across the laser beam path, operable to change the diameter of the target optical beam and hence the size of the target image.

8. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the optical lens assembly includes a movably mountable optical lens and a motor means operable to move the optical lens towards or away from the laser diode.

9. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any of claims 5 to 8, wherein the optical beam directing means comprises means for independently moving the target optical beam in each of two substantially perpendicular directions.

10. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the optical beam directing means is operable to move the target optical beam across a 120° arc path, preferably in a time of less than two seconds.

11. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the optical beam directing means comprises a movable arm, for mounting the first optical beam generator means thereon, movement of the arm in each of the two directions causing related movement of the target optical beam in each of the two directions.

12. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the control means comprises a microprocessor and a display screen.

13. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the control means is operable to control the movement of the target image across a selected one of a plurahty of different paths of movement.

14. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the control means further comprises selection means to enable a user to select a path of movement for the target image.

15. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the control means displays the selected path of movement on the display screen.

16. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the control means also displays a background image on the display screen, to enable the user to assess their shooting position in relation to the target and a selected background.

17. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the initiating means is a voice activated switch means.

18. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the voice activated switch means comprises a microphone and an electrical signal generator means for sending a signal to the control means when a voice command is received.

19. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the initiating means is an acoustic release.

20. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 16, wherein the initiating means is a manually operable switch means, which may comprise a microprocessor mouse button or a microprocessor keyboard key.

21. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the shot simulation means comprises a switch means and a second optical beam generator means in communication with the switch means.

22. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the switch means is actuated when a shot is fired by a user.

23. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the second optical beam generator means emits an optical beam when the switch means is actuated.

24. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the switch means is mountable on the shot gun trigger, such that pulling the trigger actuates the switch means and the second optical beam generator.

25. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the second optical beam generator means is a laser diode.

26. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the wavelength of the light emitted by the shot simulation laser diode is widely spaced in wavelength from the wavelength of the target optical beam.

27. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the shot simulation laser diode is operable to emit pulses of laser hght.

28. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the pulses are of approximately 30 milliseconds duration.

29. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 27 or claim 28, wherein the pulses are timed such that there are no more than two such pulses within a ten second period.

30. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any of claims 25 to 28, wherein the shot simulation laser diode is mountable on the barrel of the shot gun, and is preferably mountable inside a barrel of the shot gun, towards the muzzle of the shot gun.

31. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the shot simulation means further comprises a signal emitter means in communication with the switch means for sending a signal to a signal receiver means on the control means, for indicating to the control means that a shot has been fired.

32. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 31, wherein the signal emitter means is mountable on a barrel of the shot gun, and is preferably mountable towards the muzzle of the shot gun.

33. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 32, wherein the mounting means aligns the shot simulation laser diode with the longitudinal axis of the barrel.

34. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 33, wherein the mountmg means includes a substantially oval shaped flexible member for insertion in the barrel of the gun.

35. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any of claims 30 to 32, herein the signal emitter means is a third optical signal generator means comprising an infra-red light emitting diode.

36. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any of claims 31 to 35, wherein the signal receiver means is a first optical detector means suitable for detecting infra-red hght.

37. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 36, wherein the shot simulation means further includes an electrical power supply means mountable on the shot gun for supplying power to the shot simulation means and to the signal emitter means.

38. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 37, wherein the weight of the electrical power supply means is substantially equal to the combined weight of the shot simulation means and the signal emitter means.

39. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 38, wherein the electrical power supply means is mountable on the trigger side of the balance point of the shot gun, such that the weight of the electrical power supply means counter balances the combined weight of the shot simulation means and signal emitter means provided towards the muzzle of the shot gun, thereby ensuring that the shot gun remains balanced.

40. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 39, wherein the apparatus further includes recoil simulation means mountable on the shot gun, to simulate recoil on firing a shot.

41. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 40, wherein the recoil simulation means comprises a gun cartridge containing compressed gas.

42. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the compressed gas in the cartridge is released when the gun is fired, thereby simulating the recoil experienced when a standard cartridge is fired by the gun.

43. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein an audio speaker means is provided in communication with the control means for emitting an audible signal when the gun is fired.

44. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 43, wherein the shot detecting means comprises a second optical detector means for detecting the shot simulation laser diode beam on the projection surface.

45. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 44, wherein the second optical detector means is a CMOS area image sensor having an infra-red filter member provided thereacross.

46. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 45, wherein the second optical detector means is provided within the projection means, generaUy alongside the first optical beam generator means.

47. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 46, wherein the second optical detector means has about a 20° field of vision, generally around the target optical beam.

48. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the shot detection means is in communication with the control means, for sending information to the control means regarding the location of the shot simulation laser diode beam.

49. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 48, wherein the control means comprises processing means for determining the location of the simulated shot with respect to the location of the target beam on the projection surface.

50. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 48, wherein the estimated location of the simulated shot and the target image may be displayed on the display screen, thereby enabling the user to see whether the target image was hit by the simulated shot, or whether the target image was missed, and if so, the location of the simulated shot in relation to the target image.

51. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the shooting simulation apparatus further comprises an image projecting means for projecting the background image onto the projection surface.

52. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 51, wherein means are provided for creating, editing and displaying the data necessary to generate a display of the target and background.

53. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 51, wherein the shooting simulation apparatus further comprises measuring means for deteirriining the distance between the projection means and the projection surface.

54. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the measuring means is a sonar device, such as an ultrasonic measuring device.

55. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any of claims 51 to 54, the shooting simulation apparatus comprising a plurahty of projection means to thereby enable a plurality of target images to be projected onto the projection surface.

56. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, the apparatus including access control means for selectively controlling use of the apparatus.

57. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 56, the apparatus further including means for storing and processing data relating to individual users, their shooting devices, their ammunition and/or the general environment.

58. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, the apparatus further including a remote control provided with a Smartcard reader/ writer.

59. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 58, further including a Smartcard capable of storing data necessary to access the shooting simulation apparatus.

60. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 58 or claim 59, wherein the Smartcard may store credit data to allow limited access to the simulation apparatus.

61. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the Smartcard is capable of recording the number of shots taken to aUow charging for the use of the simulation apparatus.

62. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 60 or 61, wherein the Smartcard is capable of storing the results of shots taken for personal record keeping or for competitions.

63. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any of claims 57 to 62, wherein the Smartcard provides a level of security such that unauthorised use or modification of the stored data is prevented.

64. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any of claims 57 to 63, wherein the Smartcard stores data relating to the user, the gun, the ammunition being simulated and the general environment of the shooting range.

65. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, the apparatus including feedback means comprising an audio speaker in communication with the control means for emitting an audible Doppler effect signal during the flight of the simulated target and when the gun is fired.

66. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein a visible means of status and ready-to-fire indication is provided.

67. Shooting simulation apparatus according to claim 66, wherein the visible means is a multi-colour light emitting diode.

68. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein a random delay may be inserted between initiation of a target and projection of the target.

69. Shooting simulation apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the shooting simulation apparatus is capable of showing on-report or simultaneous doubles using a single projection means.

70. A method for simulating shooting, the method including the steps of projecting a moving target image onto a projection surface; controlhng the movement of the target image, movement of the target image being initiated by a signal from a user; simulating the path of a shot fired by a shooting device; and detecting the location of the simulated shot onto the projection surface, wherein the shot detection means may detect the location of a simulated shot only within a detection area on the projection surface, the detection area being movable in dependence upon the movement of the target image.

71. A method according to claim 70, wherein the target image is produced by a target optical beam.

72. A method according to claim 70 or 71, wherein the method includes the step of moving the target optical beam in either or both of two substantiaUy perpendicular directions.

73. A method according to claim 72, wherein the method includes the use of a control means to control the movement of the target image across the projection surface.

74. A method according to claim 73, wherein the target image may be controlled so as to move across a selected one of a plurality of different paths of movement.

75. A method according to claim 74, wherein the method may include the selection of one path of movement for the target image.

76. A method according to claim 75, wherein the method may include the display of the selected path of movement on a display means of the control means.

77. A method according to claim 76, wherein the target shown on the display means may change size as it moves along the selected path of movement, to thereby provide a user with information relating to the distance of the target from the user, the user watching the movement of the target on the display means before taking up position and shooting at the target image on the projection surface.

78. A method according to any of claims 74 to 77, wherein the method may further include displaying numerical distance data on the display means during the display of the selected path of movement, the user watching the movement of the target on the display means before taking up position and shooting at the target image on the projection surface.

79. A method according to any of claims 74 to 78, wherein the method may further include the display of a background image on the display means, to enable the user to assess their shooting position in relation to the target selected background.

80. A method according to any of claims 70 to 79, wherein the method includes the step of initiating the movement of the target image using a voice activated switch means.

81. A method according to any of claims 70 to 80, wherein the movement may be initiated by a manuaUy operable switch means which may include a microprocessor mouse button or a microprocessor keyboard key.

82. A method according to any of claims 70 to 81, wherein the step of simulating a shot fired by a shooting device may include the step of providing an optical beam when a switch means is actuated by a user.

83. A method according to claim 82, wherein actuation of the switch means may be caused by the user puUing a trigger of the shooting device.

84. A method according to claim 83, wherein the method further includes the step of sending a signal to a signal receiver means on the control means, for indicating to the control means that a shot has been fired.

85. A method according to any of claims 70 to 84, wherein the sending of the signal is initiated by the pulling of the trigger of the shot gun.

86. A method according to claim 85, wherein the method includes the step of processing the output of the shot detection means to determine whether the simulated shot would have hit the target.

87. A method according to claim 86, wherein the step of processing includes calculating the displacement of the second optical beam from the location which the target would have reached by the time the simulated shot reached the same range as the target.

88. A method according to any of claims 51 to 87, wherein the method may further include the three dimensional display of a background image on the display means or on a personal computer, to enable the users to assess their shooting position in relation to the selected target's environment, its path of flight and the path of flight of the simulated shot.

89. A method according to claim 88, wherein the user is provided with a means for creating, editing and displaying the data necessary to generate a three dimensional display.

90. A method according to claim 89, wherein an audible signal is provided to give a Doppler effect indication of the target moving towards or away from the user.

91. A method according to claim 90, wherein the method includes the step of storing data about the user, the shooting device, the target and the target's environment.

92. A method according to claim 90 or claim 91, wherein the method includes the step of storing the outcome of shooting using the simulation apparatus.

93. A shooting simulation apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to the drawings.

94. A method substantially as herein described with reference to the drawings.

95. Any novel subject matter or combination including novel subject matter disclosed herein, whether or not within the scope of or relating to the same invention as any of the preceding claims.