WO2008103133A2

WO2008103133A2 - Surveillance shield and method

Info

Publication number: WO2008103133A2
Application number: PCT/US2007/004409
Authority: WO
Inventors: Steven J. Prock
Original assignee: Prock Steven J
Priority date: 2007-02-20
Filing date: 2007-02-20
Publication date: 2008-08-28
Also published as: WO2008103133A3

Abstract

A surveillance shield comprising a substantially flat rigid, substantially inflexible mirrored plastic panel, and at least one aperture defined by the panel, the aperture positioned in the panel such that a user may peer through the aperture while carrying the shield. The panel may include a frame and a handle positioned on a side opposite the mirrored side. The handle may include means for positioning the shield in a forward-leaning attitude upon engagement by a user. The shield may include automatic positioning means for positioning the shield at between about 86 to 88 degrees relative to a horizontal surface upon engagement by a user. A blanket including a bullet resistant material may be detachably connected to the panel. At least one resilient member may detachably connect the blanket to the shield. A remote control camera/firearm support may extend to the side opposite the mirrored side. The camera/firearm support positions the camera/firearm adjacent the aperture for adjustment and shooting. The invention further includes alternative configurations of the foregoing and associated methods of use.

Description

SURVEILLANCE SHIELD AND METHOD

BACKGROUND Technical Field This invention relates to shields for surveilling and more specifically to light-weight portable reflective shields for surveillance of people, game and/or targets. Description of the Related Art

The ability to secretly approach a target without detection or to otherwise operate surveillance of prey without being noticed has long been a desire of hunters, soldiers, spies, and law enforcement authorities for ages. It is not uncommon to use shields as protective devices in combat or for sneaking up on prey. Typical hunting or combat shields, however, are generally readily visible to the combatant or prey. With a typical shield it is often difficult to sneak up on a target since the shield is visible and draws attention. Other common camouflage attempts for use in surveillance or stalking include use of specially colored clothing, face paints, or props to simulate the surrounding or background environment to lessen the chances of detection. The particulars of the environment, however, change from place to place and therefore typical camouflage clothing and props lack the flexibility desired for ease of use from place to place.

There are some examples of the use of mirror technology in hunting applications, such as in creating stationary hunting blinds for placement in the woods. Examples of such hunting blinds include those as shown in U.S. Patent No. 5,592,960, and U.S. Patent No. 5,373,863. With such blinds, the hunter positions himself behind a mirror or wall of mirrors so the game does not readily distinguish the hunter, instead viewing the reflection of the terrain immediately adjacent the mirror. Motions before the mirror, such as those caused by wind blowing leaves or branches, blend into the overall view pattern such that game are not spooked by the natural looking environment. Hunters may then experience the benefit of oncoming game for improved hunting success. Such stationary devices, however, have limitations that make their use limited, unworkable or undesirable. Such stationary devices are often too large or bulky to use to secretly approach a target or for general surveillance techniques. They are also awkward to pack, store, operate, and transport from place to place, and lack important features that assist or provide the user with a wide range of tactics and flexible options for efficiently adapting to the environment and overall surveillance. Such devices that may be equipped with bullet-proof or bullet-resistant material (i.e., which use Kevlar® or the like as embedded within the reflective panel), may be too heavy, too expensive, or lack an option of removal of the bullet-resistant material to accommodate a greater variety of uses. Such devices also lack use of a handle to assist the user in holding the device or to hold the device at a desired angle for improved operation.

Accordingly, there is a need and desire to overcome these and other limitations of the mirror technology. There is a further desire to present a lightweight portable mirrored surveillance shield that can be carried by a single user while secretly walking upon a target and simultaneously peering through the shield.

There is a further desire to present a surveillance shield having at least two mirrored panels detachably connected in a vertical relationship. There is a further desire to present a shield where the shield includes a handle for assisting in angling the shield to better reflect images. There is also a desire of having an option to selectively attach or detach a bullet- resistant blanket in combination with the shield; and to accommodate resilient engagement of a blanket to the shield. Satisfaction of these needs and other items is made possible by the present invention which will become apparent in light of the present specification.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the present invention is directed to surveillance shields, surveillance methods, methods for using surveillance shields, and methods of manufacturing surveillance shields. According to one aspect of the invention there is provided a surveillance shield having a substantially flat, substantially inflexible mirrored plastic panel, and at least one aperture defined by the panel, the aperture positioned in the panel such that a user may peer through the aperture while carrying the shield. The aperture may be positioned such that a user is substantially concealed by the shield while the user carries the shield and simultaneously peers through the shield.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a surveillance shield having a first substantially flat, substantially inflexible light-weight mirrored plastic panel component, a second substantially flat, substantially inflexible mirrored plastic panel component, at least one of the first and the second panel components defining at least one aperture, the first and the second panel components detachably connected in a vertical attitude.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a surveillance shield having a first substantially flat, substantially inflexible mirrored plastic panel component, and a second substantially flat, substantially inflexible mirrored plastic panel component, the first component detachably connected to the second component, at least one of the first and the second components defining at least one aperture, the aperture positioned such that a user is substantially concealed by the shield while the user carries the shield and simultaneously peers through the aperture. According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a method of surveillance comprising, providing a substantially flat, substantially inflexible mirrored plastic shield having at least one aperture defined by the shield, and transporting the shield while peering through the aperture. According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a method of manufacturing a surveillance shield comprising, providing a substantially flat, substantially inflexible reflective or mirrored plastic panel, dividing the panel into first and second panel components, at least one of the panel components defining at least one aperture, and detachably engaging the first and second panel components in a vertical attitude. Each of the first and second panel components may have a grain running in a first general direction, and the panel components may be engaged while matching together their respective grains.

A further aspect of the invention is directed to surveillance shields and protective blankets used in conjunction with the shields. According to one aspect of the invention there is provided a blanket for use with a surveillance shield having a mirrored plastic panel and at least one aperture defined by the panel, the blanket comprising a flexible sheet of bullet resistant material bounded by a perimeter, the sheet defining an opening positioned in alignment with the aperture of the panel, the resistant material comprising fibers from at least one of the group comprising aramid fibers and UHMWPE fibers.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a substantially flat mirrored plastic panel, and a blanket detachably connected to the panel, the blanket including resistant material, the resistant material comprising fibers from at least one of the group comprising aramid fibers and UHMWPE fibers. Preferably an aperture is positioned in the panel such that a user may peer through the aperture while carrying the shield. Preferably the aperture may be positioned such that a user is substantially concealed by the shield while the user carries the shield and simultaneously peers through the shield. Preferably the blanket includes an opening positioned in alignment with the aperture.

A further aspect of the invention includes a surveillance shield comprising a substantially flat plastic panel having a mirrored front side, a blanket including resistant material, the resistant material comprising fibers from at least one of the group comprising aramid fibers and UHMWPE fibers; and connecting means for detachably connecting the blanket to the shield.

A further aspect of the invention includes a surveillance shield comprising a substantially flat plastic panel having a mirrored front side, a handle extending toward a second side, the handle including a forearm support. A further aspect of the invention includes a surveillance shield comprising a substantially flat plastic panel having a mirrored front side, and a remote control camera/firearm support extending toward a second side.

With these and other aspects in mind which will more readily appear as the nature of the invention is better understood, the invention comprises the novel combination and arrangement of features and steps hereinafter more fully described, illustrated and claimed with reference being made to the claims and drawings. The above summary of the present invention is not intended to describe each illustrated embodiment, aspect, or every implementation of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a surveillance shield according to one aspect of the invention. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a further aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a component of the invention. Fig. 4 is an exploded back view of a further aspect of the present invention. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a further aspect of the present invention. Fig. 6 is an exploded back view of a component of the present invention. Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a handle aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 8 is an elevation view of a blanket in accordance with the present invention. Fig. 9 is an elevation view of a component in accordance with one aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 10 an elevation view of a surveillance shield in accordance with one aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 11 is a partial elevation view of a component of a further aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 12 is a partial perspective view of the surveillance shield of Fig. 10.

Fig. 13 is a side view of the surveillance shield of Fig. 10. Fig. 14 is a perspective view of a frame of a surveillance shield in accordance with a further aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 15 is a side view of the surveillance shield of Fig. 14.

Fig. 16 is a side view of a frame of a surveillance shield in accordance with a further aspect of the present invention. Fig. 17 is a rear view of the frame of Fig. 16 having a panel. Fig. 18 is a side view of a frame of a surveillance shield in accordance with a further aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 19 is a rear view of the frame of Fig. 18 having a panel.

Fig. 20 is a side view of a support in conjunction with a frame of the surveillance shield in accordance with a further aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 21 is a side view of a support in conjunction with a frame of the surveillance shield in accordance with a further aspect of the present invention.

Fig. 22 is a partial top view of a support in conjunction with a frame of the surveillance shield in accordance with a further aspect of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the Figures, a surveillance shield 20 includes a substantially flat, substantially rigid, reflectively mirrored plastic panel 22. Panel 22 is preferably of a variety having an outward or front side plastic material 24 treated with a back side layer 26 of an outwardly reflecting (i.e., through the front side plastic material 24) material. Front side material 24 is generally transparent and may include plastics such as acrylic (such as a plexiglass or Plexiglas® sheet) or other suitable material. Panel 22 may be vacuum metallized with aluminum or other suitable mirror producing material on its back surface 26. Other suitable methods for making mirrored plastic panel may be utilized. Back surface 26 preferably includes a tough opaque back-coat which protects the metallized surface. Panel 22 is advantageous in comparison with glass mirror and other reflecting materials in flexibility of design, installation and assembly. It is light weight, breakage resistant and can be used and fabricated more easily and safely than glass mirrors. Plastic panel 22 can be cut with conventional saws and routers, and can be drilled and machined to fit a desired shape.

Preferably panel 22 is a substantially flat, mirrored reflective and substantially optically correct outwardly facing panel adapted to reflect accurately the surrounding environment. Such optically correct panel 22 will allow for concealing the panel within the surrounding environment. Panel 22 is light weight and is of a size such that it may be carried by a single person while still concealing the person.

Panel 22 includes an aperture 28 such that a person carrying shield 20 may peer through the aperture 28 while carrying the shield 20. Preferably shield 20 has a generally rectangular configuration with a height dimension "h" greater than a width dimension "w". One suitable configuration includes shield 20 having a height h of about 5 to 6 ¹A feet, and preferably about 6 feet, and a width w of about 2 to 3 ¹A feet, and preferably about 2 ¹A feet. Preferably aperture 28 is positioned toward an upper portion 30 of the shield 20 to allow a user 32 to peer through the aperture 28 while standing or carrying the shield 20 in an upright manner as shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 5.

Aperture 28 is preferable vertically oriented such that user 32 may vertically scan the upcoming terrain so as to walk without tripping or otherwise tactically maneuver the shield 20. Aperture 28 may include apertures of different configurations, which are not limited to those as shown in the drawings. Aperture 28 may include a physical hole or opening of desired configuration. Aperture 28 may also include an area in panel 22 which is void or generally lacking of metallized aluminum or other mirror producing material or layer. In such case the back surface 26 would lack an opaque back-coat over the area such that aperture 28 includes the transparent acrylic area to allow a user to peer through panel 22 despite not having a physical, as opposed to visual, opening. A second aperture 28b may be provided vertically adjacent aperture 28a so that user 32 may opt to peer through either aperture 28a or 28b as desired. The lower aperture, designated as 28b as shown in FIG. 2 is preferably horizontally oriented to allow for horizontal scanning of the environment and more preferably, such as in a case where aperture is a physical opening in panel 22, for placement of a camera or firearm to thereby follow motion of a target. Aperture 28b may have an elongated shape or other configuration depending upon preference or depending upon the particular surveillance operation. In combination, apertures 28a and 28b provide user 32 with convenient sighting ability together with convenient camera/firearm positioning while effectively concealed from view behind shield 20. It may be appreciated that the smaller the size of apertures 28a, 28b, the greater the mirrored area of panel 22. Too large an aperture 28a, 28b would increase the opportunity for user 32 being detected. Use of vertically aligned aperture 28 such as shown in FIG. 1 provides a smaller profile yet effective arrangement for mobilization. A supplemental panel 31 (See Fig. 6) made of mirrored plastic or acrylic may be included with shield 20. Panel 31 may include a dimension larger than aperture 28a or 28b, such as an 8 inch by 8 inch element. Fasteners 33 fasten panel 31 to panel 22. A user may fasten panel 31 to cover aperture 28 to create a greater area of mirror or reflection on the front side 24 of shield 20 in order to limit exposure. A user may move panel 31 to a position adjacent aperture 28 to allow for greater viewing or a greater opening. Panel 31 may be configured to cover aperture 28 or both aperture 28a, 28b, and may accommodate use to allow a user to walk with shield 20 with a relatively small area (i.e., 2 inches by 2 inches) exposed or showing. When shield 20 is in place, panel 31 may be moved to a position as shown in Fig. 6 (or other position) to allow placement of device 96 or other surveillance device. Fasteners 33 may be of the hook-and-loop variety for convenient attachment and detachment of panel 31. Shield 20 preferably includes a frame 34. Frame 34 is preferably positioned opposite the reflective side 24 of panel 22. Frame 34 includes at least one frame member 36, and preferably frame members 36a, 36b, 36c, and 36d which generally bound the perimeter of panel 22. Preferably frame member 36 is secured to edge portion 40 of panel 22, and at least a portion of frame member 36 is preferably off-set from panel edge 42. The off-set 44 is preferably about ¹A" from edge 42. Such off-set position lessens the possibility that the frame member 36 will be visible from the front side 24 or from a side angle position. Frame member 36 is preferably made of aluminum and is secured to panel 22 by suitable fasteners 38, including but not limited to rivets, bolts or screws. Frame members 36 are preferably made from hollow section aluminum tubing (square or round or otherwise) and may be configured to align the edge portion of most any type of shaped panel 20.

While shield 20 may preferably include a single panel 22 as shown in FIG. 1, it may be appreciated that shield 20 may be made of two or more panels 22, preferably two panels 22a and 22b as shown in FIG. 4. Panels 22a and 22b may be made from the same sheet of mirrored plastic so as to maintain equivalent or nearly identical reflective properties. Panels 22a and 22b are detachably connected in a vertical arrangement or attitude, with panel 22a positioned above panel 22b. Panels 22a and 22b may be connected with any number of connectors, including but not limited to having plugs 46 which extend from frame member 36 of panel 22b into frame member 36 of panel 22a. As shown in FIG. 4, frame member 36e and frame member 36f are not off-set from an edge of panel 22 to allow for a more secure mating and to lessen optical distortion between the two panels 22 along their common connection. While distortion may occur with multiple-panel arrangements, the distortion is unlikely or less likely to be problematic for use in surveillance of wild game and the like. A lower cost may therefore be realized with multiple panels as opposed to a single panel arrangement which is provided in the case of law enforcement surveillance where even minor distortions may be unacceptable. It may be appreciated that different or additional clamps or clips may be used to engage panels 22. Panel 22a contains aperture 28, while panel 22b is a surface without apertures. It may be appreciated that aperture 28 may be positioned in a variety of locations, but preferably is positioned such that a user is substantially concealed by the shield 20 while the user transports, holds, or carries the shield 20 and simultaneously peers though the aperture 28. In addition to the foregoing, aperture 28 may be positioned near or at an edge portion of panel 22 or even situated between adjacent panels 22a and 22b.

Shield 20 is preferably made of a single panel 22 having any number of selected dimensions of height "h" and width "w", with common dimension of 6 feet, 5 feet or 4 feet tall by 32 inches wide. Separate panels 22 may be connected together to create a desired size. A single panel is preferred over multiple panels in order to reduce distortion or reflected images which otherwise tends to occur at the region where panels are joined. An optional skirt (not show) may be attached to the lower portion of shield 20 to better conceal the feet or legs of a user who uses a shorter sized shield. The skirt may hang downward from the shield 20 while the user walks behind the shield 20.

In the manufacture of a multiple panel shield 20, preferably each panel 22 is cut from the same stock having a grain running in a general first direction. After the panels are divided from the stock, they are preferably affixed with fame members 36 and pieced back together and into their original relationship, all preferably having grain running in the first direction so as to lessen distortion of a reflected image.

Having multiple panels 22 allows for ease in storage and transport. A single user may place panels 22 in a case or protected pouch having a shoulder strap and transport the same in the trunk or storage area of a vehicle. The pouch may be easily removed and carried, and the panels 22 may be assembled once the user is closer to the intended target area. Multiple panels 22 can be provided so a user may assemble as many panels 22 as needed for any particular operation, or so that multiple users may simultaneously use shield 20.

While panel 22 may also include an additional aperture 28 to use as a hand hole for carrying the shield 20, shield 20 preferably includes at least one handle 48, and preferably two handles. The handles 48 may be attached to frame member 36. Handle 48 may also attach to a holder 50 which receives handle 48 and allows for desired adjustment, rotation, or removal.

Adjustable fasteners, including but not limited to wing nut 58, may be used to adjust handles 48. Handle 48 and holder 50 may include a variety of holes for selective adjustment of the positioning of handle 48 to accommodate the comfort and effectiveness of using shield 20.

As shown in FIG. 5, handle 48 includes forearm support 52 to accommodate ease of use. Handle 48 is configured such that a user may conveniently adjust the pitch of shield 20 so as to visually blend into the immediate environment. Holding or carrying shield 20 at an angle to downwardly reflect images of the surrounding environment is preferred over holding at an angle to reflect the sky or other image that does not blend into the environment. Therefore, handle 48 may be configured with a natural bend to accommodate a preferred or proper pitch. A proper pitch is at an angle represented generally by the arrow A, and is an angle between about 90 to 45 degrees, and preferably between about 89 to 70 degrees, and more preferably between about 86 and 88 degrees, and most preferably about 86.7 degrees. By holding shield 20 in a forward- leaning attitude, an onlooker looking or scanning in the general direction of shield 20 would view the reflection of the surrounding ground 54 or environment. Applicant has found that having a pitch of about 86.7 degrees provides a balanced benefit of producing a reflected image where a sky image is minimized while maximizing an image of the surrounding terrain. User 32 may therefore stand or walk behind shield 20 while holding or carrying shield 20 at an angle to thereby conceal himself and approach a target while being undetected. It may be appreciated that user 32 may also crouch down or crawl while aligning shield 20 in a generally horizontal position. With shield 20 aligned in a generally horizontal position (not shown) a user may lie on the ground and peer through aperture 28, and aperture 28 may also be formed of a shape to fit the desired use.

As shown in Fig. 7, handle 48 may include forearm support 52 to ease the holding of shield 20. Handle 48 may be angled as shown generally by the arrows represented at arrow B and/or at arrow C. Angles B and/or C may be at right angles or less than right angles to accommodate a desired pitch for handle insert member 60. Handle 48 may include adjustment points to accommodate a variety of configurations. Cup 62 may cradle a user's forearm and may pivot if desired. Handle insert member 60 may insert into holder 50 and rotate and contain adjustment points to accommodate comfort. Other configurations of handle 48 may be used with equal or improved results and handle is not meant to be confined to include only those features as shown or described.

An alternative handle 48' is shown in Figs. 14 and 15. Handle 48' includes handle base 51 which may be pivotally attached to shield 20, such as to frame 34. A bolt or fastener 59 may accommodate pivotal connection of base 51 to frame 34. A pair of handles 48', 48' may conveniently fold inward in alignment beneath frame member 36 for convenient storage. Hand peg 53 is connected to base 51 and may be off-set a distance "p" from frame 34. Panel 22 is positioned on frame 34 opposite handle 48'. A single panel 22 may be affixed to frame 34. A crossing frame member 36 accommodates engagement of handle 48'. Frame member 36 is positioned generally near the center of frame 34. Preferably frame member 36 is positioned below or slightly below a centerline of shield 20. Positioning frame member 36 (as well as associated handle 48) below the centerline of shield 20 urges the frame 34 into the forward- leaning mode when a user engages handle 48'. Automatic tipping of frame 34 typically ceases when arm rest 55 engages a user's forearm. Changing the position of frame member 36 (or alternatively changing the position where handle 48' connects with shield 20) will result in a change in the automatic positioning or amount of forward slanting of shield 20 as described further. Handle base 51 includes arm rest spacer 57 which extends downward a distance "q". Arm rest 55 is connected to arm rest spacer 57 and may be pivotally connected. A user may use his hand to grasp hand peg 53 while his forearm extends toward arm rest spacer 57 such that arm rest 55 abuts the forearm to allow a comfortable engagement. Further, handle means 61 automatically positions shield 20 in a forward-leaning attitude upon engagement of handle means 61 by a user. Handle means 61 may include arm rest 55 and hand peg 53. As a user grasps peg 53, frame 34 tips forward until arm rest 55 engages the forearm of a user. Arm rest 55 and handle base 51 may pivot to accommodate users of different sizes. A person with a relatively short forearm will experience contact with arm rest 55 at a position closer to his elbow as compared to a person with a longer forearm. In either case, the angle of rotation of shield 20 will be the same. The angle of rotation may be varied by changing the respective lengths of arm rest spacer 57, hand peg 53 off-set "p", and the distance "r" between peg 53 and arm rest spacer 57. As arm rest spacer 57 is lengthened, the of rotation of shield 20 will be greater since contact with the forearm of a user will require arm rest 55 to travel a greater distance to engage forearm (thus making the angle "z" with respect to the horizontal a smaller angle measure). Changes in the other dimensions of "p" and "r" will also alter the angle of rotation of shield 20 upon grasping of handle means 61. Automatic rotation of shield 20 is represented by arrow "z" in Fig. 15 where the dotted line represents, generally, how shield 20 may rotate upon a user engaging handle means 61. Preferably a forward-leaning attitude of shield 20 includes a rotation "z" of between about 85 and 90 degrees, and more preferably between about 86 and 88 degrees, and most preferably about 86.7 degrees in relationship to the horizontal reference line. Arm rest 55 pivots to accommodate engagement with the forearm of a user.

While not preferred, shield 20 may also include a handle 48 that extends from a top portion of frame 34 for use in conjunction with an associated hip member or hip members which extend from the area of cross member 36 outward toward a user. The user may grasp the handle extending from an upper frame member such as from member 36a (see Fig. 3) or from an upper portion of member 36b, while a hip member may contact the hip of a user. The user may then walk behind shield 20 while peering through aperture 28.

Shield 20 may further include a foot stand 56 detachably connected to frame 36. Preferably stand 56 rotates from a storage or walking position as shown in FIG. 2 or FIG. 5 to a standing position as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3 and FIGS 14 and 15. User 32 may use his foot or hand to retract foot stand 56 while maintaining shield in an angle position. Once stand 56 is retracted, user 32 will then enjoy free use of his hands to use a camera or firearm as desired, or to simply enjoy the surroundings while being concealed. Foot stand 56 also may stabilize shield 20 so a user need not maintain foot engagement with foot stand 56, and may walk away from shield 20 as desired. Foot stand 56 may be anchored into the ground, and other anchoring wires may be affixed to shield 20 to position shield 20 in a relatively set location and to resist wind, rain and other elements. User 32 may stand on foot stand 56. Foot stand 56 may be inserted into holder 50 and equipped with fasteners to securely lock stand 56 into a set position so that shield 20 may self-stand. Foot stand 56 may also be extended when shield 20 is placed on ground 54 in a generally horizontal position to support shield so that user 20 may lay on the ground 54 while undertaking surveillance. Fig. 6 shows an exploded back view of one aspect of the present invention where holders 50 may include adjustments such as wing nuts or other mechanisms to accommodate for desired use. A user may conveniently attach and/or separate panel 22a from panel 22b for convenient storage or transport. Figs. 14 and 15 show foot stand 56 opened to accommodate contact with the ground or surface. Foot stand 56 may be positioned above and abut frame member 36c. Stand 56 pivots at a top portion of frame member 36c. Stand 56 has a length and is positioned on frame member 36c such that when stand 56 is rotated into standing position (where stand 56 preferably abuts frame member 36c), shield 20 is positioned in a forward-leaning attitude of between about 89 to 70 degrees, and more preferably between about 86 and 88 degrees, and most preferably about 86.7 degrees.

Frame members 36 may further include snaps (not shown) or other fasteners to accommodate the securing of a cloth for positioning over-head user 32 for further concealment. Other accessories may include use of magnets or metal strips glued adjacent apertures 28 to receive a mirrored cover to conceal the aperture.

In operation a user may undertake surveillance by providing the shield 20 and transporting the shield 20 while peering through the aperture 28. Transporting the shield 20 in such surveillance method includes, but is not limited to, preferably carrying the shield 20. Preferably the surveillance includes providing shield 20 having a substantially optically correct mirrored surface to reflect the surrounding environment, and to also provide shield 20 of a size to substantially conceal the user while the user transports and peers through the shield 20. Different sized shields 20 may be configured depending on the desired surveillance undertakings. Applicant believes a surprising benefit of the invention is that law enforcement officials will be able to conveniently use the shield 20 to approach suspected improper activities, such as is common in areas of methamphetamine manufacture at labs in remote areas, or for other homeland security operations.

As shown with respect to the figures, including Figs. 8-13, shield 21 of the present invention includes a shield 20 and a resistant blanket 70. It may be appreciated that shield 20 may be as described above or as described further herein, and need not necessarily be limited to the particular features or dimensions shown. As shown in Fig. 8, blanket 70 is made of flexible sheet material 72. Preferably sheet material 72 includes light-weight bullet-resistant, and more preferably, bullet-proof material. Non-limiting examples of such material 72 include material made from aramid fibers, such as fibers made from poly-para-phenylene terephthalamide, sometimes referred to as Kevlar® or other aramid fibers; or from fibers containing ultra high molecular weight polyethylene ("UHMWPE"), including but not limited to Dyneema® and/or Spectra®; or combinations of the foregoing. The fibers are generally aligned and bonded into sheets, which are then layered at various angles to give the resulting composite material 72 strength in all directions and thus more capable of resisting impact such as impact of a bullet. Blanket 70 is detachably connected to shield 20. Shield 21 includes connecting means 74 for detachably connecting blanket 70 to shield 20. Preferably connecting means 74 includes at least one resilient member 76. Resilient member 76 may be made from any substance, including an elastic, plastic, or metal cord or spring or band, or straps or bungee cords or combinations thereof, or any other rigid or semi-rigid article for connection. Preferably resilient member 76 is a tensioning member, preferably a rubber or bungee-type of cord or band. As shown in Fig. 9, shield 21 includes a shield 20 which preferably includes a frame 34 or individual frame members 36. Frame 34 is positioned at an edge portion 40 of panel 22 and preferably on a backside 26 opposite reflective front side 24. Preferably frame 34 is offset from edge 42. Frame member 36 includes a plurality of frame holes 64 in which a hook 78 of connecting means 74 may insert. Hook 78 may be a hook of a resilient member 76 such as a hook associated with a bungee cord or other connecting means 74. It may be appreciated that frame holes 64 may be positioned at different positions on or about frame 34. While not preferred, it may also be appreciated that holes 64 may be positioned directly on panel 22.

Fig. 10 shows one aspect of shield 21 where blanket 70 is connected to shield 20. It may be appreciated that shield 20 may be of varying height "h" and width "w" to accommodate a desired application. It may also be appreciated that blanket 70 may be of varying sheet length "i" to correspond to a desired shield 20. While not limited thereto, shield 20 may typically have a height "h" of the 4 foot, 5 foot or 6 foot varieties, with width "w" of between two to three feet and preferably about 32 inches. Preferably blanket 70 includes at least one opening 80 therein. It may be appreciated that blanket 70 is not transparent, except that a user may see through opening 80 which is a physical hole or opening. Opening 80 is preferably positioned in alignment with aperture 28 when blanket 70 is connected to shield 20. Preferably opening 80 defines an area greater than an area defined by aperture 28. Preferably opening 80 is substantially a circular opening, especially when used in conjunction with a shield having a generally circular aperture 28. It may be appreciated that opening 80 preferably has a dimension to match generally a dimension of aperture 28. Preferably opening 80 is offset from perimeter 73 and generally centered from side-to-side along sheet width "x". Preferably opening 80 is offset about 7 to 10 inches from top perimeter of sheet 72, and more preferably about 8 inches in the case of a shield having height "h" of five or six feet. It may be appreciated that blanket 70 may be configured for use in conjunction with a variety of different shields 20. Preferably blanket 70 includes a plurality of eye-holes 71 positioned adjacent perimeter 73, and preferably approximately equally spaced apart from adjacent eye-holes 71. Preferably eye-holes are of a grommet variety or otherwise reinforced as may be appreciated. Metal grommets or rings or other reinforcing items or stitching may be used in conjunction with eye- holes 71. Eye-holes 71 may be circular, however, an oval, rectangular or other shaped eye-hole may be used. It may be appreciated that eye-holes 71 ' may be of a different variety compared to eye-holes 71 to accommodate receiving a turn lock such as turn lock 74' (see for instance Fig. 11). Turn lock 74' may be of a quarter-turn variety for ease in quickly detaching/attaching blanket 70 from/to shield 20. Preferably at least three turn locks 74' are provided adjacent an upper perimeter 73 of blanket 70. It may be appreciated that connector 75 and connecting means 74, 74' is not limited to means as shown herein and may include a variety of fasteners and connectors without departing from the invention.

Preferably blanket 70 includes an upper region 82 having a first sheet width "x" wherein opening 80 is positioned. A lower region 84 has a second sheet width "y" having a measure less than a measure of "x". A narrower lower region 84 allows for use of a blanket 70 having less weight while still covering and importantly protecting the groin region of a user of the shield 21. Preferably blanket 70 includes sheet 72 having a length such that sheet 72 covers the groin region of a user while the user is peering through opening 80. Alternatively, blanket 70 may come in two or more detachably connected segments so a user may modify blanket 70 for a desired activity and weight. The individual segments may be snapped together or connected by means of a zipper or other connecting means. Opening 80 is preferably substantially centered in upper region 82. Length "i" is preferably substantially equal to length "h" of shield 20. The particular dimensions of blanket 70 (or segments combined to make blanket 70) may be varied to accommodate different areas of protection or coverage. Preferably shield 21 includes a plurality of connecting means 74 positioned adjacent edge portion 40 and around perimeter 73 of panel 22. It may be appreciated that other detaching/connecting mechanisms 75 and means 74 may be used without departing from the scope of the invention.

Blanket 70 may have a sheet width "x" and sheet width "y" that are equal or substantially the same, and width "x" may also be equal or substantially equal to the measure of width "w" of shield 20 or frame 34. Eye-holes 71 may align with respective holes 64, and may include a connecting mechanism 75 for securing blanket 70 to shield 20 or to frame 34. As shown in Fig. 12, blanket 70 is preferably off-set from frame 36 adjacent connector 74. Such off-set arrangement allows for use of a preferably resilient member 76 to span the distance from blanket 70 to frame member 34. It may be appreciated that use of a plurality of resilient members 76 assists in tightly securing blanket 70 to backside 26. It may also be appreciated that blanket 70 may be quickly attached or detached for ease of use and for interchangeability of parts from one shield 21 to another shield 21. Blanket 70 may be conveniently removed for storage and to allow for shield 21 to be of lighter weight. Handle 48 (or 48') is connected to shield 21, extending from backside 26 opposite mirrored front side 24. Preferably handle 48 (or 48') is connected to frame 34.

Referring to Fig. 13, the function of blanket 70 can be further appreciated during an impact event, such as when a projectile such as a bullet 90 is shot at shield 21. As bullet 90 travels in the direction of arrow A it will relatively easily pass through panel 22. Upon passing panel 22, bullet 90 travels to impact blanket 70. Blanket 70 resists passage of bullet 90.

Further, due to the flexing or stretching nature of resilient member 76, or plurality of members 76, blanket 70 tends to flex in the direction of arrow B. Particularly, resilient member 76 will stretch to accommodate or absorb in part the impact force. Thus, forces from bullet 90 are absorbed, at least in part, by connecting means 74 and frame 36 to increase the bullet-resistance of shield 21. Preferably resilient member 76 includes hook 78 which inserts into and hooks within respective holes 64 and eye-holes 71 to better secure member 76 to shield 21 and to minimize popping out of position during an impact event.

Referring to Figs. 16 and 17, a camera/firearm support 92 extends to the back side of shield 20 opposite front side 24. Support 92 includes a mounting member 94 upon which a camera/firearm 96 may be positioned. Mounting member 94 is positioned adjacent aperture 28. Camera/firearm 96 and support 92 include means, including but not limited to via radio control, so they may be operated and adjusted remotely. Mounting member 94 is connected to shield 20. Member 94 may be connected to bracket 98. Bracket 98 may extend from frame member 36 or from other frame members. Preferably mounting member 94 is adjustably connected to bracket 98. A ball-joint 99 connection allows member 94 to pivot to accommodate a variety of angles for desired alignment and to flexibly site through aperture 28. Support 92 includes an extender 102 which may be connected to foot stand 56 or to frame 34. Motors or blocks 100 engage extenders 102 to accommodate adjustment of member 94 along the vertical and as generally represented by arrow "V" in Fig. 17. Mounting member 94 may include telescoping segments to accommodate for adjustment of its length as member 94 moves in the vertical direction "V" and horizontal direction "H". Blocks 100 may be electrically operated to roll or slide about extenders 102. Blocks 100 may be remotely operated. Control 104 may include electrical control device for control of motion of blocks 100 and may also include a power means such as a battery or solar cells or rechargeable cells. Control 104 may also include transmitting and receiving means in order to control operation and manipulation of camera/firearm 96. Extenders 102 may include grooves or gradations to assist in motion of blocks 100. It may also be appreciated that an extender 102 may alternatively include a pair of telescoping elements that adjust to various lengths to achieve the desired motion. Alternatively, extender 102 may be threaded to accommodate sliding motion of blocks 100 upon turning of extender 102. In such case a motor may be used to turn extender 102 to obtain motion of block 100. Additional extenders 103 may be used for stabilizing. Cross extenders or additional extenders may also be utilized for increased support.

Mounting member 94 is connected to adjusting member 95. Adjusting member 95 is connected to blocks 100a, 100b. Upon motion of blocks 100, adjusting member 95 adjusts in the vertical direction "V" to move member 94 which pivots about ball joint 99. Blocks 100 may be operated remotely. A wire or line from control 104 may be used to operate blocks 100. Block 100c is engaged with adjusting member 95. Block 100c moves along the horizontal generally represented by arrow "H". As block 100c rolls or slides in the direction of arrow "H", the rear of mounting member 94 swings to accommodate a change of site for device 96, allowing a remote user to aim or adjust the aim of device 96. Support means 92 thus functions to aim device 96 in both a vertical and horizontal manner.

Alternative supporting means 92 may be used to accommodate support and remote adjustment of device 96, and the foregoing is not intended to limit such means to the description shown. A tripod or triangular supporting means may be utilized having a sliding or telescoping extender 102, threaded members, pillow blocks, bearing sliders, and other mechanisms to accommodate remote control of the positioning of device 96.

Referring to Figs. 18 and 19, an alternative support 92' is presented. Extenders 102, side extenders 102a, extenders 103 and bottom extenders 105 may form a generally box-like support for controlled adjustment of device 96. A ball-joint 99 and mounting member 94 may be utilized as mentioned above. Alternative extender configuration may be utilized. Given the relatively light-weight feature of device 96, which may also include a small fire-arm or camera, a more modest structure may be used, including a detachable accessory support.

Referring to Fig. 20, an alternative support 92" is shown. Support 92" includes a main bar 110 which detachably connects to frame member 36, preferably at a central portion of frame member 36 and in alignment with aperture 28. A pin 14 may be inserted through main bar 110 to accommodate for a pivot or swivel action. Main bar 110 may be slightly bent toward the connection end 111 with member 36 to accommodate the angled action of shield 20 such that bar 110 is positioned generally horizontal when shield 20 is in the forward-leaning mode. Adjusting bar 113 engages with bar 110. Bar 113 may include threads for vertical adjustment in order to position mounting member 94'. A quick-set or quick release mechanism 115 accommodates easy adjustment of the length of bar 113. Handle 117 may operate to angularly move member 94'. Bar 110 may have varying length to accommodate adjustment of support 92". Mount 1 19 may include a universal camera screw and receive a device 96. Mount 119 may slide within a slot within mounting member 94' for position adjustment of device 96. Referring to Figs. 21 and 22, an alternative support 92 is shown. Main bar 110 is connected to frame member 36 having a connection end 111. A strut 112 extends from bar 110 to frame 36 for added support. An upper strut 112 extends upward from bar 110 and includes a cradle 118 to support a firearm 96. A rod 116b extends from bar 110 upward and includes another cradle 118 to support the stock of firearm 96. Rod 116b preferably includes a threaded portion which mates with a threaded portion of a rod 116a driven by block 100d. Block 10Od may be affixed to bar 110. Rod 116 turns worm gear to operate desired raising or lowering of cradle 118. Pin 14 secures struts 112, and may pivot to accommodate a side-to-side motion or adjustment of support 92. Straps 120 may be included to secure device 96 into position and assist in holding device 96 especially during a recoil or kick-force upon firing of firearm 96. Block lOOd and device 96 may be remotely operated. The traditional scope of device 96 may be exchanged for a camera for remote viewing, aiming and adjustment. Referring to Fig. 22, side bar 122 connects with frame 36 at a side portion of shield 20 (either at a left or a right side of frame 34). A motor is positioned with or within side bar 122 to operate or extend the extender 124. The motor is controlled remotely. As extender 124 extends or retracts, bar 110 pivots or swivels so a side-to-side adjustment of device 96 can be made. A slot 125 within bar 110 accommodates motion of a pin or glide at the end of extender 124 for smooth adjustment. It may be appreciated that a combination of the elements of supports 92 as described above may be used. It may also be appreciated that the invention is not limited to the specific features of supports 92, and that other combinations, mechanisms, means, adjusting means, and remote adjusting means for adjusting support to obtain both horizontal and vertical adjustments may be used.

The terms and descriptions used herein are set forth by way of illustration only and are not meant as limitations. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations are possible within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the following claims, and their equivalents, in which all terms are to be understood in their broadest possible sense unless otherwise specifically indicated. While the particular SURVEILLANCE SHIELD AND METHOD as herein shown and described in detail is fully capable of attaining the above- described aspects of the invention, it is to be understood that it is the presently preferred embodiment of the present invention and thus, is representative of the subject matter which is broadly contemplated by the present invention, that the scope of the present invention fully encompasses other embodiments which may become obvious to those skilled in the art, and that the scope of the present invention is accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended claims, in which reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless explicitly so stated, but rather "one or more." Moreover, it is not necessary for a device or method to address each and every problem sought to be solved by the present invention, for it to be encompassed by the present claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S. C. section 112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase "means for."

Claims

1. A surveillance shield comprising: a substantially flat, substantially inflexible mirrored plastic panel; and at least one aperture defined by said panel, said aperture positioned in said panel such that a user may peer through said aperture while transporting said shield.

2. The shield of claim 1 further including a frame member connected at an edge portion of said panel.

3. The shield of claim 1 wherein said panel is mirrored on a first side of said panel, said shield further including a handle extending toward a second side of said panel opposite said first side.

4. The shield of claim 1 wherein said shield further comprises an adjustable camera/firearm support.

5. The shield of claim 4 wherein said support is positioned adjacent said aperture and wherein said shield further comprises remote adjusting means for adjusting said support.

6. The shield of claim 1 wherein said mirrored plastic panel includes a substantially optically correct outward facing surface to reflect accurately the surrounding environment and thereby substantially conceal the appearance of said shield, and wherein said aperture comprises an area in said panel generally lacking a mirror producing material.

7. The shield of claim 1 wherein said aperture comprises an area, said area being generally transparent.

8. The shield of claim 1 wherein said aperture is an opening in said panel and allows an article to be placed therethrough.

9. The shield of claim 3 wherein said handle includes a forearm engaging portion.

10. The shield of claim 1 wherein said shield includes a handle connected to said shield, said handle including a hand peg projecting from a handle base, said handle base pivotally connected to said shield.

11. The shield of claim 1 further comprising handle means for automatically positioning said shield in a forward-leaning attitude upon engagement of said handle means by a user.

12. The shield of claim 11 wherein said handle means includes a hand peg and an arm rest.

13. The shield of claim 12 wherein said hand peg is connected to a handle base pivotally connected to said shield, said handle base including a downwardly extending arm rest spacer and wherein said arm rest is pivotally connected to said arm rest spacer.

14. The shield of claim 11 wherein said shield is positioned at between about 86 to 88 degrees relative to a horizontal surface upon engagement by a user.

15. The shield of claim 1 wherein said shield includes a foot stand.

16. The shield of claim 15 wherein said foot stand includes positioning means for automatically positioning said shield in a forward-leaning attitude upon engagement of said foot stand with a horizontal surface.

17. A method of surveillance comprising transporting and simultaneously peering through said shield of claim 1.

18. The method of claim 17 further comprising walking behind said shield while peering through said aperture while substantially concealed by said panel.

19. A surveillance shield comprising: a substantially flat, substantially inflexible plastic panel having a mirrored first side; and a handle connected to said shield and extending toward a second side of said panel opposite said first side.

20. The shield of claim 19 wherein said handle includes a hand peg projecting from a handle base, said handle base connected to said shield.

21. The shield of claim 19 further comprising at least one aperture defined by said panel, said aperture positioned in said panel such that a user may peer through said aperture while transporting said shield.

22. The shield of claim 20 further comprising a frame connected at said second side of said panel and wherein said handle base is pivotally connected to said frame.

23. The shield of claim 19 further comprising positioning means for automatically positioning said shield in a forward-leaning attitude upon engagement of said handle by a user.

24. The shield of claim 23 wherein said shield is positioned at between about 86 to 88 degrees relative to a horizontal surface upon engagement of said handle by a user.

25. The shield of claim 19 further comprising a blanket detachably connected to said panel, said blanket including resistant material, said resistant material comprising fibers from at least one of the group comprising aramid fibers and UHMWPE fibers.

26. The shield of claim 19 further comprising a blanket detachably connected to said panel, said blanket including resistant material, said resistant material comprising fibers from at least one of the group comprising aramid fibers and UHMWPE fibers, said blanket including an opening positioned in alignment with said aperture.

27. A surveillance blanket for use with a surveillance shield having a mirrored plastic panel and at least one aperture defined by the panel, said blanket comprising: a flexible sheet of bullet resistant material bounded by a perimeter, said sheet defining an opening positioned in alignment with the aperture of the panel, said resistant material comprising fibers from at least one of the group comprising aramid fibers and UHMWPE fibers.

28. A surveillance shield comprising: a substantially flat mirrored plastic panel; and a blanket detachably connected to said panel, said blanket including resistant material, said resistant material comprising fibers from at least one of the group comprising aramid fibers and UHMWPE fibers.

29. The shield of claim 28 wherein said mirrored plastic panel includes at least one aperture defined by said panel.

30. The shield of claim 28 further comprising at least one resilient member connecting said blanket to said shield.

31. The shield of claim 28 wherein said panel is mirrored on a first side and wherein said shield further comprises a handle extending from a side opposite said first side.