WO2023281493A1

WO2023281493A1 - System and method for impact detection in training

Info

Publication number: WO2023281493A1
Application number: PCT/IL2022/050699
Authority: WO
Inventors: Amir Ben Shoshan; Asaf ENGEL
Original assignee: Plasan Sasa Ltd.
Priority date: 2021-07-05
Filing date: 2022-06-29
Publication date: 2023-01-12
Also published as: IL284634A; IL284634B

Abstract

A system for combat training is presented. The system comprising: one or more marking units associated with firearms in training, one or more tracking units associated with one or more units in training and a server system. The marking units comprise a positioning unit, a rangefinder unit and a communication unit, and are configured to transmit data indicative of position and line-of-sight upon simulated operation of the firearm. The tracking units comprise a positioning unit, alert unit, and communication unit, are configured to transmit data on position, and operate said alert unit, in response to input communication indicating a hit signal, to for generating impact alert. The server system is configured for monitoring positions of the marking units and the tracking units, and in response to input communication indicating a simulated shot being fired, the server unit determines location of the marking unit and line-of-sight of a simulated shot and determines impact condition associated with one or more tracking units to generate and transmit the hit signal to the respective one or more tracking units.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMPACT DETECTION IN TRAINING

TECHNOUOGICAU FIEUD

The present invention relates to training simulation systems and specifically relates to a system and method for use in training for detection of target impact. BACKGROUND

Various military vehicles utilize impact detection systems generating alerts in response to threat hits, and thus supply data on impact location, threat type, and general direction of threat arrival. During training operation, the use of actual explosives and projectiles is limited to avoid risk to equipment and the lives of the training forces. At the same time, operation of impact detection in a training scenario enables improved training, both for the vehicle operator and crew, as well as for tactical officers monitoring either side of the training teams and arsenal viability.

US 2020/0263960 discloses subject matter which concerns an impact detection system for detecting an event of impact of a threat on a target and determining at least one characteristic of the event. The system comprises a sensing array of sensing elements mountable to the target. Each sensing element is configured to change its state from an intact state to a damaged state upon impact of the threat. The system further comprises a measuring system operatively coupled to the sensing elements, and a processing system operatively coupled to the measuring system. The processing system is configured to identify changes in the state of the sensing elements, and upon identifying the changes of the states of at least two sensing elements during the event of impact, generating a data signal including a time-sequence of the corresponding changes, and determining at least one characteristic of the event of the impact accordingly. GENERAL DESCRIPTION

There is a need in the art for an impact simulation system for determining target hits by simulated weapons and for providing data on impact of the target. The present invention provides a system for use in training and war simulation scenarios, enabling virtual targeting and hit/impact detection. The system comprises one or more marking units associated with one or more firearms such as guns, cannons, or other weapons, used in the simulation, and one or more target tracking units associated with a selection of one or more mobile or stationary targets. The system further comprises a server system comprising one or more computer processors and a memory unit. The server system is configured and operable to be in communication with the one or more marking units and the one or more tracking units to register data on shots being fired and determine target hits.

The marking and tracking units may be used for a simulation unit enabling tactical firearm simulations in various scenarios. Further, the system may utilize one or more simulation tag units, where each simulation tag unit comprises combined features of marking and tracking units. The term simulation unit hereby refers to either marking, tracking, or simulation tag unit.

To this end, each marking unit comprises a positioning module, and a range detector aligned with sight of the respective barrel/cannon and communication unit. The positioning module is configured to determine data on position and orientation of the barrel. The range detector may be configured as a laser range detector and is generally aligned with sight of the barrel to provide data indicative of light of sight of the respective barrel and range to a respective target. Generally, the marking unit may comprise a triggering module connectable to or simulating trigger or controls of the respective firearm, typically overriding actual fire operation of the controls. The marking unit may communicate periodically with the server system to transmit data on location thereof. In response to crew operation of firearm controls, the marking unit may transmit data indicative of a shooting event, comprising data on one or more of location, orientation, line-of-sight of the barrel, and range to a target shown through sight of the firearm. Generally, the marking units may also include a processor and memory circuit configured for operating the positioning unit and range detection and managing transmission via the communication unit. For example, computer readable code may be pre- stalled in the memory providing instructions executed by the processor for performing the tasks defined hereinbelow.

In this connection is should be noted that the term barrel is used herein relating to any type of firearm used by training or simulation participants. A barrel may relate to a handgun, rifle, cannon, missile launcher, or any other type of weapon used in the training scenario. Accordingly, the marking units may be mounted on infantry, mobile vehicles, air units, and/or stationary mounted weapons.

Various targets in the field are equipped with tracking units. Each tracking unit comprises a positioning module, communication module, and alert unit. The tracking unit is configured for continuously or periodically updating the server system on its location and orientation, and to be responsive to input communications indicating hit of the respective target. In response to hit communication, the tracking unit may operate the respective alert unit to provide selected alert to personnel operating the target unit, and/or to a commanding crew. The alert unit may provide acoustic and/or visual alerts to respective personnel. In cases where the target unit is a mobile vehicle, the alert unit may be connectable to vehicle operation controls and configured to limit operation controls in response to a hit signal. In some further configurations, for a vehicle carrying an impact detection system, the alert unit may comprise, or be connectable to, a user interface module for providing indication on the received hit in accordance with alert indications integrated with the impact detection system. The user interface module may be associated with the impact alert system installed in the training unit (e.g., vehicle training unit), and may utilize one or more display units, head mounted display unit, and/or virtual or augmented reality display unit providing visual indication on hit signal and impact characteristics to one or more operators of the training unit.

Generally, the tracking units may also include a processor and memory circuit configured for operating the positioning unit and alert unit and managing transmission via the communication unit. For example, computer readable code may be pre-stalled in the memory, providing instructions executed by the processor for performing the tasks defined hereinbelow, including e.g. communication with vehicle installed user interface, and providing suitable impact alert in accordance with the impact detection system installed in the vehicle. For example, the tracking unit may be installed within a vehicle carrying an impact detection system as described in US 2020/0263960 assigned to the assignee of the present application. Accordingly, the alert unit may be configured to be connectable to a corresponding user interface to thereby provide output data on characteristics of impact in response to hit signal data. Such impact characteristics may comprise data on the impacting projectile or weapon, on angle of impact, and, in some configurations, data on impact location on the vehicle.

Generally, in some configurations, the marking and tracking units may be combined to form a simulation tag unit. Such a simulation tag unit is operable as both the marking and tracking units described herein. Such a simulation tag unit is configured to be installed/mounted on training units, enabling tactical simulation, including shots fired and hits detected, as described herein.

It should further be noted that the marking, tracking and/or simulation tag units may be portable units that can be mounted on various training units, including infantry and vehicles. To this end, the marking, tracking, and/or simulation tag unit may include a portable power source (e.g., battery unit) and may also be connectable to external power for providing electrical power required for operation of the different modules.

The server system comprises one or more processors and a memory unit, and is configured to communicate with the plurality of marking and tracking units spread out in a training field. The server system may comprise, or be associated with, a control interface comprising at least display system, configured to provide control data indicative of locations and status of the different units in the field.

The server system is generally configured to maintain mapping data comprising data on positions of the various marking and tracking units in the field. The server system is further configured to receive input data on one or more shots being fired from one or more marking units, and to process the input data in accordance with mapping data, to determine whether any one of the tracking units is hit by the respective shot being fired. In case the server system determines that a specific tracking unit is hit by a shot being fired, the server system transmits a respective hit signal to the tracking unit, instructing the tracking unit to initiate a corresponding alert by the tracking unit.

Utilizing mapping data includes processing data on positions of the various tracking units and marking units in the field, and preferably includes processing data on the physical structure of the field. As indicated above, tracking and marking units are configured to provide data on position, including direction/orientation data. Accordingly, the mapping data may include vector representations of the one or more marking and one or more tracking units. Typically, each marking or tracking unit may be associated with meta-data with a selected form factor. The form factor may indicate the type of unit associated with the marking and/or tracking unit, being an infantry unit, vehicle, or certain size and dimension. Utilizing data on form factor and orientation data of the tracking units, the server system may operate to determine the angle of impact.

Thus, according to a broad aspect, the present invention provides a training system comprising:

(a) one or more marking units associated with firearms in training; each marking unit comprises a positioning unit, a rangefinder unit and a communication unit, and is configured to transmit data indicative of position and line-of-sight in response to simulated operation of the firearm;

(b) one or more tracking units associated with one or more units in training; each tracking unit comprises a positioning unit, alert unit, and communication unit, and is configured to transmit data on position thereof, and in response to input communication indicating a hit signal, to operate said alert unit for generating impact alert to inform the respective unit; and

(c) a server system comprising at least one processor and memory unit, and a communication module, said server system being configured for monitoring positions of one or more marking units and one or more tracking units; wherein, in response to input communication from a marking unit indicating a shot being fired, the server unit is configured to determine location of said marking unit and line-of-sight of a fire being shot, and to determine impact condition associated with one or more tracking units to thereby generate and transmit the hit signal to the respective one or more tracking units.

According to some embodiments, at least one of said marking positioning unit and tracking positioning unit may comprise at least a positioning and orientation detector and which is configured to periodically transmit position and orientation data to said server system.

According to some embodiments, the one or more marking units and one or more tracking units may be configured to periodically transmit position data to the server system, the server system thereby maintaining mapping data indicative of positions of said one or more marking units and one or more tracking units.

According to some embodiments, the one or more marking units may comprise a trigger module configured to be connected to a trigger of the associated firearm, to thereby determine data on trigger operation, and generate, in response, shot data indicative of fire being simulated from said firearm.

According to some embodiments, the range detector of said marking unit may be aligned with sight of the respective firearm and configured and operable to determine data indicative of line-of- sight and range of virtual shot fired, and to transmit said data on line- of-sight and range to the server system.

According to some embodiments, the server system may be configured for receiving shot data indicative of virtual shot fired, said shot data comprising data on position of the respective marking unit and range and line-of-sight of the virtual shot, and to process the shot data in accordance with mapping data indicative of positions of tracking units to determine hit of a respective one or more tracking units.

According to some embodiments, the server system may be configured to maintain data indicative of firearms associated with said one or more marking units and corresponding impact characteristics, said hit signal comprising data indicative of said impact characteristics.

According to some embodiments, the alert unit of said one or more tracking units may comprise a visual alert signal configured for providing visual indication of a hit signal.

According to some embodiments, the alert unit of said one or more tracking units may be connectable to a user interface of the respective unit in training for providing indication on impact in accordance with a unit of a pre-installed impact detection system.

According to some embodiments, the alert unit may be configured to provide operational alert data in accordance with operational configuration of said pre-installed impact detection system.

According to some embodiments, the server system may be configured to store unit data comprising data indicative of at least a form factor of said units in training associated with said one or more tracking units, the server system being configured for utilizing said unit data for determining data on impact angle and providing said data on respective hit signal.

According to some embodiments, the one or more marking units and one or more tracking units may be configured as common one or more simulated tag units comprising a positioning unit, a rangefinder unit, an alert unit, and communication unit; and which are configured for operation both as marking and as tracking units. According to one other broad aspect, the present invention provides a battle simulation unit configured to be associated with a corresponding training unit, the battle simulation unit comprising: a trigger module configured for simulating trigger operation of a firearm, a rangefinder unit aligned with sight of said firearm and configured to determine data on range to a target, a positioning unit configured to determine data on position of said unit, a processor unit and communication unit; wherein said processor unit comprises one or more processors and is configured for receiving data indicative of simulated trigger operation from said trigger module and data on range to a target from said rangefinder unit, and to generate shot signal data comprising position data determined by said positioning unit, range data indicative of range to a target, and shot indication indicative of a shot being fired, and to transmit said shot signal to a server system using said communication unit, thereby enabling tactical firearm simulation.

According to some embodiments, the battle simulation unit may further comprise an alert unit, said processor unit being configured to operate the alert unit to generate an impact alert in response to a hit signal received from said server system through the communication unit. The alert unit may be configured to be connected to an existing impact detection system preinstalled in said training unit.

According to some embodiments, the positioning unit may comprise at least a positioning and orientation detector and is configured to periodically transmit position and orientation data to said server system, thereby enabling said server to determine direction of said training unit with respect to surroundings.

According to yet another broad aspect, the present invention provides a battle simulation unit configured to be associated with a corresponding training unit, the battle simulation unit comprising: alert unit, communication unit, and processor unit; in response to input hit signal received by said communication unit, said processor unit is configured for processing said hit signal and determining data on impact characteristic thereof, and for operating said alert unit to provide alert indication indicative of impact characteristics of said hit signal, thereby enabling tactical simulation including impact indication to training units.

According to some embodiments, the battle simulation unit may further comprise a positioning unit configured to periodically transmit position data to a server system, to thereby enable said server system to determine hit signals associated with said training unit. According to some embodiments, the alert unit may comprise a visual alert signal configured for providing visual indication of a hit signal.

According to some embodiments, the alert unit may be connectable to a user interface of the respective training unit for providing indication on impact in accordance with the unit's pre-installed impact detection system.

According to yet another broad aspect, the present invention provides a method for simulating training actions, the method comprising:

(a) providing one or more marking units mounted on weapon carrying units in a field, said marking units being configured to provide position data and shot signal data indicative of shots being simulated;

(b) providing one or more tracking units mounted on training units acting as simulated targets, said tag unit being configured to periodically transmit location data and be responsive to input hit signal communication;

(c) monitoring position data of said one or more marking units and one or more tracking units, and maintaining map data indicative of unit arrangement in a training field, receiving shot signal data indicative of shot being simulated, and processing the shot signal in accordance with map data to determine identity of tracking unit in trajectory to said shot being simulated, and transmitting impact data signal to said tracking unit in trajectory of said shot, thereby causing said tracking unit to operate an alert signal indicative of impact of the respective simulated target.

According to some embodiments, the tracking unit is connectable to a user interface associated with the impact detection system of a respective unit acting as a simulated target, and wherein said alert signal comprises generating user interface indication on impact and corresponding impact characteristics.

According to some embodiments, said processing of the shot signal may comprise processing said map data in accordance with position of marking unit generating said shot signal, and range of said shot, and processing location of said one or more tracking units in said map data to determine impact of said shot on a respective simulated target, and generating hit signal to said tracking unit, thereby providing said simulated target corresponding impact data. According to some embodiments, said processing of the shot signal further comprises obtaining pre-stored data on form factor data and orientation data of said respective simulated target, determining direction of said shot, determining angle of impact on said simulated target, and transmitting angle of impact to said tracking unit.

According to some embodiments, said processing of the shot signal further comprises obtaining pre-stored data on ammunition type of weapon associated with said shot signal and armor level of the respective simulated target and determining data on impact characteristics indicative of damage level of said respective simulated target.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates a system for impact detection in training according to some embodiments of the present invention;

Fig. 2 illustrates general configuration of a marking unit according to some embodiments of the present invention;

Fig. 3 illustrates general configuration of a tracking unit according to some embodiments of the present invention;

Fig. 4 illustrates general configuration of a simulation tag unit according to some embodiments of the present invention;

Fig. 5 illustrates general configuration of a training server system according to some embodiments of the present invention; and

Fig. 6 illustrates a method for training according to some embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Reference is made to Fig. 1 illustrating schematically an arrangement on units training in a field 101 using a system according to some embodiments of the present technique. The system includes a server system 100 formed by one or more computerized server systems configured and operable for managing training activities, one or more marking units, marked as W1 to W4 mounted on one or more training units, including firearms or other weapons in the training scenario, and one or more tracking units, marked as PI to P4, mounted on training units that may be used as targets in the training scenario. Generally, one or more training units may be associated with a simulation tag unit configured for operating as both marking and tracking units simultaneously, indicating that such a unit may act as a firing unit as well as a target, such unit being exemplified in Fig. 1 by unit WP1.

The server system 100 includes at least one processor unit 110 and memory unit 120, operatively connected to a communication module 130 and control interface 140. The processor unit 110 and memory unit 120 are configured to provide processing and operating of the system as described hereinbelow. The processor unit 110 is configured to execute one or more functional modules in accordance with computer readable instructions, typically implemented within the memory unit 120 forming a non-transitory computer readable memory. For simplicity, the functional modules described below are referred to as being part of the one or more processors 110 when implementing the respective computer readable instructions.

The server system 100 is configured to be in communication with the one or more marking units and one or more tracking units in the field. Such communication is typically wireless, using channel selection, enabling the server unit to separately and individually receive and transmit communications to and from selected units in the field. For example, the server system 100 may be in communication unit Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular communication etc. or any other suitable communication technique. Accordingly, the communication module 130 may include one or more antenna units positioned in or in the vicinity of the field, and respective circuitry including, e.g., a modulator/demodulator for receiving and transmitting communication signals and for providing respective data based on the communication signals.

Fig. 1 exemplifies map data illustrating marking units W1-W4, tracking units Pl- P4 and combined marking and tracking unit WP5. Also illustrated in Fig. 1 are line-of sight-signals associated with simulated shots fired by marking units W2, W3, W4 and combined simulation tag unit WP5.

An exemplary marking unit is illustrated in Fig. 2. The marking units 200 include a trigger module 205, a positioning unit 210, typically including location module (e.g., GPS or other location system), and orientation unit 215 such as a compass, gyroscope, etc., and a range detector 220, generally aligned with the barrel of the respective training unit in accordance with sight thereof. The marking unit 200 also includes a communication unit 230 configured to establish communication with the server system 100 for transmitting position data and shot signals. Generally, the marking unit may also include a processor unit 250 operable by computer readable instructions to operate the elements of the marking unit as described hereinbelow. Additionally, the marking unit 200 may include a power source unit, e.g., battery unit, configured to provide electrical power to the unit and its modules. Additionally, or alternatively, the marking unit 200 may be connectable to an external power source, such as a vehicle power outlet.

In this connection, the marking unit 200 is generally mounted on a respective training unit including a firearm. The trigger module 205 is generally configured to imitate trigger operation of the respective firearm, and to generate shot indication on simulated shots.

Upon mounting, assignment data, connecting each specific marking unit 200 with the respective training unit, is registered and stored in a storage module, accessible by server system 100. The assignment data may include data on the weapon associated with the marking unit 200, including for example data on impact characteristics, ballistic trajectory, range, etc. The marking unit is connectable to weapon operating systems of the training unit (e.g., trigger), and is configured to operate the range detection unit 230 for determining range to a target in accordance with line-of- sight obtained by sight of the respective weapon, to generate a shot signal, and to transmit the shot signal to the server system 100. This enables the server system 100 to determine the position of the marking unit when firing, and trajectory of the shot fired, and to determine whether any unit is hit by the shot, informing the respective unit of such a hit.

A tracking unit is schematically exemplified in Fig. 3. The tracking unit 300 is generally mounted on training units that may be used as targets in the training. The tracking unit 300 includes a positioning unit 310 typically including location module (e.g., GPS or other location system), and orientation unit 315 such as a compass, gyroscope, etc., a communication unit 330, and an alert unit 340. The tracking unit 300 may also include a processor unit 350 operable by computer readable instructions to operate the elements of the tracking unit, as described hereinbelow. Additionally, the tracking unit 300 may include a power source unit, e.g., battery unit, configured to provide electrical power to the unit and its modules. Additionally, or alternatively, the tracking unit 300 may be connectable to an external power source, such as a vehicle power outlet. The tracking unit 300 is generally mounted on a selected training unit, that may be used as target in the training. Upon mounting, assignment data connecting each tracking unit with a respective training unit, may be recorded and pre- stored in a storage utility accessible by server system 100. The assignment data may include data on size and form factor of the training unit, defensive armor, vulnerability to certain weapon characteristics, etc.

The tracking unit 300 is configured and operable for periodically transmitting position data, typically including direction of orientation, to the server system 100, to enable the server system to maintain a map indicating location of the different tracking units (as well as the marking units). Such a map is generally exemplified in Fig. 1, showing marking units W1-W4, tracking units P1-P4, and combined marking and tracking unit WP5, and their respective positions and orientations.

Additionally, the tracking unit 300 is configured to be responsive to input communication from the server system 100, for receiving hit signal communications. A hit signal communication is generated by the server system upon determining that a training unit associated with a respective tracking unit is hit by shot fired by one or more other training units associated with marking units. In response to the input hit signal, the tracking unit operates the alert unit 340 thereof for raising an impact alert. The alert unit 340 may be connected to training unit systems, including, for example, engine or motor controls, and speed limiter, and may include a visible (e.g., light) and/or acoustic alert. In some configurations, typically associated with vehicle training units, the alert unit 340 may include, or be connectable with a user interface module (not specifically shown). The user interface module may include one or more display units and is configured to provide display data indicative of impact characteristics such as impact location, impact direction, estimated damage etc. The user interface module may include a head mounted display, one or more screens installed within the vehicle, and augmented or virtual reality display arrangement. In some examples, a vehicle training unit may be equipped with an impact detection system including a user interface module. In such configurations, the alert unit 340 may be connectable to the impact detection system and/or user interface thereof, to operate the impact detection system in accordance with impact characteristics provided within the hit signal. The tracking unit may operate the user interface associated with the impact detection system of the training vehicle, to provide the vehicle operator with indication of the simulated impact, including, e.g., data on impact position, direction, angle of impact, estimated damage, etc. As indicated, in some configurations, the alert unit 340 may initiate operative limitations, reducing operability of the respective vehicle to simulate vehicle activity after impact. In some additional configurations, the alert unit 340 may be connectable to a light console arrangement. The light console arrangement may include an array of light sources and a controller circuit configured to operate the light sources. The console may be configured for operating the light sources of the array to provide an illumination pattern indicative of one of more impact characteristics, such as impact location.

A simulation tag unit 400 is schematically illustrated in Fig. 4. The simulated tag unit is generally configured as a combined unit providing combined operation of the marking unit 200 and tracking unit 300 described above. The simulation tag unit 400 thus includes trigger module 405, positioning unit 410, generally including orientation unit 415, rangefinder module 420, communication unit 430, alert unit 440, and may also include a processing unit 450. For simplicity, the present disclosure describes marking and tracking units herein below. It should, however, be understood that a simulation tag unit according to the present technique provides all features and configurations associated with marking and/or tracking units described herein.

A server system 100 is schematically illustrated in Fig. 5. The server system 100 is configured as a computerized system including a processor unit 110, memory 120 and communication unit 130. The server system 100 may also include control interface 140 including e.g., one or more display units configured to display map data and status of the training simulation to control/command personnel. Upon installation of the marking and tracking units, assignment data may be pre-stored in the memory 120. The assignment data may include training unit identities, data on weapon characteristics for each marking unit, data on unit form type and form factor for the tracking units, and other assignment data relevant to the training scenario.

The processor unit 110 may include one or more processors and may form one or more functional modules, being software or hardware modules. Such modules include map update module 1102, line-of- sight calculator 1104, target finder module 1106, and impact analyzer 1108.

The map update module 1102 is configured to receive position data signals from the marking and tracking units and to maintain and periodically update map data indicating positions and orientations of the different units in the field, as exemplified in Fig. 1. Generally, such map data may include data on topography of the field and data on stationary elements in the field such as walls, buildings etc. The map data may be stored in the memory unit 120 and routinely updated by map update module 1102. Additionally, the map data may be displayed on one or more display units associated with the control interface 140, to provide real-time data to control operators/personnel.

The line-of- sight calculator 1104 is configured to receive input data including a shot signal from one or more marking units. The shot signal is indicative of a shot fired by a training unit associated with a marking unit 200, while, as the system is intended for training, this is generally a simulated shot. As indicated above, the shot signal generally includes data on position of the marking unit, and direction and range of the shot fired. This is provided by the range detector 220 determining data on range to object seen through sight of the respective weapon. The line-of-sight calculator 1104 is configured to utilize the input data in the shot signal and pre- stored data including map data and assignment data indicating type of weapon, range, typical trajectory etc., to determine path of propagation of the projectile, bullet, or any other ammunition fired. The ammunition trajectory is transmitted to the target finder module 1106 and may also be used for updating data shown by the control interface 140 to illustrate the ammunition trajectory to command personnel.

The target finder module 1106 receives data on the ammunition trajectory and utilizes map data for determining a probability that one or more training units associated with tracking units are within the ammunition path. The target finder module 1106 operates to identify whether one or more tracking units is positioned within the ammunition trajectory, generally using pre-stored form factor data of a training unit associated with the respective tracking unit. The target finder module 1106 may also utilize data on stationary objects and topographic map data for determining probability of impact. The target finder module 1106 identifies one tracking unit having probability of impact above a predetermined threshold, and transmits the respective data to the impact analyzer 1108.

The impact analyzer 1108 operates to determine impact probability and characteristics. More specifically, the impact analyzer utilizes trajectory data, and pre stored data for determining impact characteristics. The impact characteristics may be determined based on pre-stored assignment data indicative of type of weapon ammunition (e.g., bullet, explosive ammunition, etc.), form factor, and armor level of the unit associated with the tracking unit, as well as topographical data and data on stationary features located in the field. The impact analyzer may operate for processing position and orientation data for determining angle of impact, identify parts of the training unit being impacted, and determine data of level of damage caused to the training unit. The impact analyzer operates to transmit data on impact characteristics to the respective tracking unit for operating the respective alert unit thereof. The impact data may also be updated within the map data and in the control interface to provide proper indication to command personnel.

For example, the impact analyzer 1108 may process data on line-of-sight of the shot being fired, and orientation data provided from the tracking unit determined as target of the shot, to determine position of impact on the target and/or angle of impact. This may include determining data on which surface of a vehicle is hit, and angle of the impact.

As indicated above, impact characteristics are determined based on assignment data of the respective marking and tracking units indicating ammunition type, and form- factor and armor of the target. The impact characteristics may also be determined by relative orientation provided by the tracking unit and ammunition trajectory, determining angle of impact. Additionally, various types of external shielding may reduce (or increase) the level of impact characteristics. For example, a wall in an ammunition trajectory may indicate that tracking units positioned behind the wall are generally not hit by a bullet. However, if the tracking is positioned at short distance from the wall, and the ammunition is marked as explosives, the target finder module 1106 may determine a certain level of impact. The impact analyzer 1108 further determines additional impact characteristics and damage level to the target. Accordingly, an infantry unit may be marked at high impact level, while an armored vehicle can absorb more damage while still maintaining operative status.

As indicated above, upon determining the identity of tracking and impact characteristics, the server system 100 operates to generate a hit signal, and transmits the hit signal to the respective tracking unit. The tracking unit is configured to receive the hit signal and operate the respecting alert unit in accordance with data on impact characteristics. Further, as also indicated above, the alert may be provided via one or more display units associated with the tracking unit, e.g., using a head mounted display unit provided to one or more human operators of the respective training unit. Reference is made to Fig. 6 exemplifying operative actions associated with a method for simulated training and impact detection according to some embodiments of the present invention. As described above, the method utilizes providing one or more marking units associated with one or more training units utilizing a weapon system, and providing one or more tracking units associated with training units that may act as targets 5010. It should be noted that in various training scenarios, one or more training units may be associated with simulation tag units, operating as both marking and tracking units, and therefore enabling to operate respective weapons for simulated fire, and receive impact signal data when being hit by simulated fire shot from other units. Mounting of the marking and tracking unit of the training unit may include connection to user interface systems of the training unit (if such exist), or mounting a suitable user interface, if needed. Additionally, mounting of the marking unit may include alignment of a range detection unit in accordance with sight alignment of the respective weapon barrel. Generally, while providing the marking and tracking units on the training units, the method may include determining assignment data for each of the marking and tracking units and storing the assignment data in computer readable memory 5020 for use in determining impact and impact characteristics in the training. The assignment data may include form factor of the respective training unit, weapon and ammunition type, armor level, etc. At this stage, the training scenario may begin, and the technique may operate for monitoring and determining training scenario activities.

During the training scenario, the method includes monitoring position, and preferably also orientation, data received from the marking and tracking units, and maintaining map data indicative of arrangement of the training units 5030. The map data is used for determining training actions, such as units being impacted from shots fired by other units, as well as providing tactical information to command personnel via a respective control interface.

When one or more training units associated with marking units fire a simulated shot, the marking unit transmits a shot signal. Accordingly, the present technique includes receiving data on shot signals from the marking units 5040 and processing the shot signal data in accordance with map data and assignment data on the different training units. Processing of the shot signal may include determining line-of-sight of the shot fired 5050 in accordance with data on range to target provided within the shot signal, data on location and orientation of the training unit associated with the marking unit, as well as stationary and topographic map data. Using the line-of-sight of the shot fired, and map data indicative of locations and orientations of the tracking units, the technique operates to determine whether a certain training unit associated with a tracking unit is impacted by the shot 5060. Determining impact of the training unit may also utilize processing assignment data, e.g., relating to form factor of the training unit associated with the respective tracking unit, armor, or defense level of the training unit, to determine impact characteristics 5065. Such impact characteristics may include data on position of impact, angle of impact, estimated damage level etc. For example, given a situation where line- of-sight of the shot is determined to be at a distance of 1 meter from tracking unit, a small form factor unit may not be directly impacted. However, a training unit having a form factor defining 2-meters in length, may be directly impacted, based on orientation thereof.

Generally, the impact characteristics are determined based on assignment data indicative of type of ammunition, armor level of the target, as well as additional data associated with map data and shot data including line-of-sight. For example, the technique may utilize determining angle of impact based on line-of-sight of the shot fired and orientation data of the target. Additionally, the technique may utilize processing of map data indicative of physical elements in the field, providing cover to nearby units, e.g., when the shot range indicates a hit of physical elements with nearby tracking units.

Indication of impact and impact characteristics data is transmitted to the respective tracking unit in an impact signal communication 5070. Communication with the marking and tracking unit may utilize various wireless communication techniques including for example Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular or any other communication protocol that enables direct communication to and from specific marking and/or tracking units in the field. In response to an impact signal, the technique includes operating the tracking unit for providing indication to training personnel on impact and impact characteristics 5080. This may include operating a user interface module providing display data on impact characteristics to one or more operators of the training unit 5090 generally utilizing display units associated with the training unit. The user interface may include head mounted display units such as virtual or augmented reality units provided to a training unit crew.

In addition to providing impact data to the training unit, via the respective tracking unit, the technique may operate by updating map data and providing impact data indication to a command crew using control interface 5075. This enables a command crew to monitor tactical aspects of the training scenario.

Thus, the present technique provides a simulation battle scenario for various training types and provides data on various training activities, including firearm training and tactical training. The present technique enables control on hit and impact characteristics and may utilize assignment data indicative of various impact protection and detection units installed on the different training units. It should be understood that the system and technique according to the invention may be a suitably programmed computer. Further, the invention contemplates a computer program being readable by a computer for executing the method of the invention. The invention further contemplates a machine-readable memory tangibly embodying a program of instructions executable by the machine for executing the method of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A training system comprising:

2. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said marking positioning unit and tracking positioning unit comprises at least a positioning and orientation detector and which is configured to periodically transmit position and orientation data to said server system.

3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein said one or more marking units and one or more tracking units are configured to periodically transmit position data to the server system, the server system thereby maintaining mapping data indicative of positions of said one or more marking units and one or more tracking units.

4. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said one or more marking units comprise a trigger module configured to be connected to a trigger of the associated firearm, to thereby determine data on trigger operation, and generate, in response, shot data indicative of fire being simulated from said firearm.

5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein range detector of said marking unit is aligned with sight of the respective firearm and configured and operable to determine data indicative of line-of-sight and range of virtual shot fired, and to transmit said data on line-of-sight and range to the server system.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein said server system is configured for receiving shot data indicative of virtual shot fired, said shot data comprising data on position of the respective marking unit and range and line-of-sight of the virtual shot, and to process the shot data in accordance with mapping data indicative of positions of tracking units to determine hit of a respective one or more tracking units.

7. The system of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein said server system is configured to maintain data indicative of firearms associated with said one or more marking units and corresponding impact characteristics, said hit signal comprising data indicative of said impact characteristics.

8. The system of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said alert unit of said one or more tracking units comprises a visual alert signal configured for providing visual indication of a hit signal.

9. The system of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said alert unit of said one or more tracking units is connectable to a user interface of the respective unit in training for providing indication on impact in accordance with a unit of a pre-installed impact detection system.

10. The system of claims 9, wherein said alert unit is configured to provide operational alert data in accordance with operational configuration of said pre-installed impact detection system.

11. The system of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein said server system is configured to store unit data comprising data indicative of at least a form factor of said units in training associated with said one or more tracking units, the server system being configured for utilizing said unit data for determining data on impact angle and providing said data on respective hit signal.

12. The system of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said one or more marking units and one or more tracking units are configured as common one or more simulated tag units comprising a positioning unit, a rangefinder unit, an alert unit, and communication unit; and which are configured for operation both as marking and as tracking units.

13. A battle simulation unit configured to be associated with a corresponding training unit, the battle simulation unit comprising: a trigger module configured for simulating trigger operation of a firearm, a rangefinder unit aligned with sight of said firearm and configured to determine data on range to a target, a positioning unit configured to determine data on position of said unit, a processor unit and communication unit; wherein said processor unit comprises one or more processors and is configured for receiving data indicative of simulated trigger operation from said trigger module and data on range to a target from said rangefinder unit, and to generate shot signal data comprising position data determined by said positioning unit, range data indicative of range to a target, and shot indication indicative of a shot being fired, and to transmit said shot signal to a server system using said communication unit, thereby enabling tactical firearm simulation.

14. The battle simulation unit of claim 13, further comprising an alert unit, said processor unit being configured to operate the alert unit to generate an impact alert in response to a hit signal received from said server system through the communication unit.

15. The battle simulation unit of claim 14, wherein said alert unit is configured to be connected to an existing impact detection system preinstalled in said training unit.

16. The battle simulation unit of any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the positioning unit comprises at least a positioning and orientation detector and is configured to periodically transmit position and orientation data to said server system, thereby enabling said server to determine direction of said training unit with respect to surroundings.

17. A battle simulation unit configured to be associated with a corresponding training unit, the battle simulation unit comprising: alert unit, communication unit, and processor unit; in response to input hit signal received by said communication unit, said processor unit is configured for processing said hit signal and determining data on impact characteristic thereof, and for operating said alert unit to provide alert indication indicative of impact characteristics of said hit signal, thereby enabling tactical simulation including impact indication to training units.

18. The battle simulation unit of claim 17, further comprising a positioning unit configured to periodically transmit position data to a server system, to thereby enable said server system to determine hit signals associated with said training unit.

19. The battle simulation unit of claim 17 or 18, wherein said alert unit comprises a visual alert signal configured for providing visual indication of a hit signal.

20. The battle simulation unit of any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein said alert unit is connectable to a user interface of the respective training unit for providing indication on impact in accordance with the unit's pre-installed impact detection system.

21. The battle simulation unit of claim 20, wherein said alert unit is configured to provide operational alert data in accordance with operational configuration of said pre installed impact detection system.

22. A method for simulating training actions, the method comprising:

23. The method of claim 22, wherein said tracking unit is connectable to a user interface associated with the impact detection system of a respective unit acting as a simulated target, and wherein said alert signal comprises generating user interface indication on impact and corresponding impact characteristics.

24. The method of claim 22 or 23, wherein said processing the shot signal comprises processing said map data in accordance with position of marking unit generating said shot signal, and range of said shot, and processing location of said one or more tracking units in said map data to determine impact of said shot on a respective simulated target, and generating hit signal to said tracking unit, thereby providing said simulated target corresponding impact data.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein said processing the shot signal further comprises obtaining pre-stored data on form factor data and orientation data of said respective simulated target, determining direction of said shot, determining angle of impact on said simulated target, and transmitting angle of impact to said tracking unit.

26. The method of claim 24 or 25, wherein said processing the shot signal further comprises obtaining pre-stored data on ammunition type of weapon associated with said shot signal and armor level of the respective simulated target and determining data on impact characteristics indicative of damage level of said respective simulated target.