Abstract:
A firearm training apparatus and method provides simulated weapon realism that places higher priority to shot placement by using a culminated laser beam with specific target areas to achieve marksmanship accuracy. Trainee shooters can visually observe hits by an LED in the target area and hear an alarm sound when another trainee is hit. Stress and reaction to stress is achieved through the use of a TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) units in vests worn by the trainees. Greater realism is achieved by eliminating special safety equipment required with projectile systems, and focus on weapon accuracy and firing characteristics.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/894,750, “Firearm Training Apparatus And Method” filed May 15, 2013, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/647,282, “Apparatus, System and Method For Improved Live Fire Simulation And Training” filed May 15, 2012, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/679,217, “Blank Firing Attachment Assembly For Automatic Rifles With Flash Suppressor” filed Aug. 3, 2012, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/717,236, “FTS Ocular Infrared Detection Glasses” filed Oct. 23, 2012 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/790,323, “Firearm Training Apparatus And Method” filed Mar. 15, 2013. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/894,750, 61/647,282, 61/679,217, 61/717,236 and 61/790,323 are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     
    
     FIELD OF INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention is directed towards a system for simulating firearm training. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    Firearm simulation systems exist that use guns having a laser output and laser sensors to detect hits. Firearm simulation participants wear the laser sensors and shoot the laser gun at other participants. When a sensor worn by a participant is struck by a laser, the system can record the strike. This type of a simulation system can be known as a “force on force” system. Most force on force systems are basically laser tag systems that may user laser guns that are not similar to actual firearms. These systems may transmit an uncomfortable or painful signal to a user who has been hit by a laser beam. Even with the elimination of safety equipment, existing force on force firearm training systems fail to achieve the level of realism required to enhance the firearm training experience. Some existing systems place a strong emphasis on providing electrical shock as a means of informing the player that they have been shot. Because this electrical shock can be painful, the participant can practice the ability to “Fight through the Trauma”. While certainly pain feedback can be important, the other aspects of realistic training have been ignored by prior art firearm training systems. What is needed is a more realistic firearm training simulation system. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    Most laser engagement systems function on the design premise that a laser strike or hit renders the target acquired and the subject identified as a casualty. Hits are recorded without regard to marksmanship skills allowing deterioration of learned skills. Training focus is on the ability to fight through stress and less on target accuracy. Apart from other systems, the inventive firearm training apparatus and methods simulates weapon realism. The inventive apparatus can be implemented through conversion kits that allow users to convert their own live handguns into blank firing weapons that replicate all live fire characteristics. A uniquely designed blank round handgun chamber block used in semi-automatic handguns and muzzle adaptors used for AR Style weapons, allows the trainees to experience the effects of weapon fire without the risks of chambering live rounds. 
         [0005]    In a handgun embodiment, the barrel and chamber block of a handgun are replaced with a blank round chamber block and a laser assembly. This replacement of components converts the handgun from a normal firearm to a simulated firearm device that feels like the user&#39;s handgun when shot but emits a laser beam rather than a bullet. The blank chamber block is substantially different than a normal chamber block. The blank chamber block has vents that reduces the internal pressure when the blank is fired and a leaf spring that slides against the slide of the handgun and moves the blank chamber block between blank rounds. The leaf spring can normally extend through the ejection slot. However, immediately after a blank is fired, the slide will move back relative to the frame, laser assembly and blank round chamber block. This will cause the leaf spring to contact an inner surface of the slide and exert a downward force that will help to move the blank chamber into a position to eject the used blank casing and insert a new blank. 
         [0006]    The laser assembly can include: a laser, an actuation mechanism and a battery. When a blank is fired the actuation mechanism the actuation mechanism is actuated which causes the laser to emit a laser beam. The actuation mechanism can be: a pressure sensor, an audio sensor or any other sensor that can detect the firing of the blank round. The laser beam can be directed towards laser targets which can be placed on people or objects. When the laser beam hits a target, the laser beam is detected by sensors and provides hit feedback to the system. The inventive firearm training apparatus and method places higher priority to shot placement by using a culminated laser beam with specific target areas to achieve marksmanship accuracy. Fiber optic pads allow smaller target areas that are arranged over specific target areas. The targets may also be equipped with LEDs (or other visual indicators) and audio output devices. A shooter can visually observe hits as an illuminated LED in the target area and/or a sound alarm when hit. Stress and reaction to stress is achieved through the use of a TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) unit. Greater Realism is achieved by eliminating special safety equipment required with projectile systems, and focus on weapon accuracy and firing characteristics. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0007]      FIG. 1  illustrates an embodiment of a laser assembly; 
           [0008]      FIG. 2A  illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a universal laser barrel housing assembly; 
           [0009]      FIG. 2B  illustrates a cross section view of an embodiment of a universal laser barrel housing assembly; 
           [0010]      FIG. 3A  illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a laser optical sensor training vest; 
           [0011]      FIG. 3B  illustrates a back view of an embodiment of a laser optical sensor training vest; 
           [0012]      FIG. 4A  illustrates a side view of a handgun barrel and chamber block assembly; 
           [0013]      FIG. 4B  illustrates a cross section side view of an embodiment of a laser housing and blank round chamber block; 
           [0014]      FIG. 5  illustrates a cross section side view of a blank round chamber block and leaf spring coupled to the blank round chamber block; 
           [0015]      FIG. 6A  illustrates a cross section side view of an embodiment of handgun configured with a laser housing and blank round chamber block illustrating gas vent paths; 
           [0016]      FIG. 6B  illustrates a cross section side view of an embodiment of handgun configured with a laser housing and blank round chamber block illustrating slide movement after a blank round is fired; 
           [0017]      FIG. 7  illustrates an embodiment of a compression spring used with a laser housing assembly and blank round chamber block; 
           [0018]      FIG. 8A  illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a Muzzle Assembly for Automatic Rifles style weapons; 
           [0019]      FIG. 8B  illustrates a cross section side view of an embodiment of a Muzzle Assembly for Automatic Rifles style weapons; 
           [0020]      FIG. 8C  illustrates a side view of Muzzle Assembly for Automatic Rifles style weapons; 
           [0021]      FIG. 9  illustrates an embodiment of Ocular Infrared Detection Glasses with laser strike detection sensors; 
           [0022]      FIG. 10A  illustrates a front view of an embodiment of a Portable Target System; 
           [0023]      FIG. 10B  illustrates a rear view of an embodiment of a Portable Target System; and 
           [0024]      FIGS. 11A and 11B  illustrate side views of embodiments of uniquely formed blanks used with a handgun chamber block for semi-automatic pistols. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0025]    The inventive firearm training apparatus and method were designed to realistically simulate actual firing of ammunition with a real firearm. In order to provide a realistic simulation, a real handgun and/or a long gun (rifle) are adapted for simulated firing so that the same operating principles and characteristics of the real weapon with life rounds are applied to the simulated actuation with blank rounds. 
         [0026]    The inventive firearm training apparatus can include a blank round handgun chamber block that can be used to change a fully functional duty weapon firearm to a blank firing training weapon that emits a laser beam when the blank when the firearm is fired. The system can also include fiber optic pads that are worn by the system users to monitor the training participants and record laser beam hits. In an embodiment, the fiber optic pads can transmit the hit data to a computer which can record the laser beam hits associated with each trainee and provide information about the location of the hit and the source of the hit. Each laser can be encoded with a signal indicating the laser source and each sensor mechanism can transmit a signal identifying the sensor mechanism that received the laser hit. The system computer can match the laser source and the sensor identities to produce cumulative information regarding which laser hit which sensor which can then be used to produce reports that can describe many statistics which can include: the number of rounds fired, the accuracy of the shooter, the locations of the hits on the trainees, etc. A benefit of the inventive firearm training is that the trainees use the same weapons, magazines, and types of ammunition in the simulations as the actual firing of the firearms. Because the actual guns are used to fire blank ammunition, the feel, recoil and sound can accurately replicate the same guns firing live ammunition. 
         [0027]    Existing force on force firearm training systems can provide target areas that cover the body area and in some cases these systems can inaccurately record hits that are beyond the target area because the size of the laser beam can be greater than the diameter of the live ammunition. Thus, these systems may inaccurately record simulated laser hits when actual ammunition would have missed the target. Having specific target areas on the subject is a feature of the inventive firearm training system. Thus, the inventive system may only record laser hits that would be hits using live ammunition. This improved hit reporting can reinforce marksmanship skills and ensure that the trainees receive accurate feedback and results for delivering lethal shots. 
         [0028]    In an embodiment, the inventive firearm training system can include an ocular target device that is worn of the user&#39;s face and allows training participants to engage “T-zone” targets. In another embodiment, the inventive firearm training can include a target system that allows the use of vehicles in active shooter simulation scenarios. An ocular target system can be placed on one or more vehicles to transmit laser strikes to a laser sensor. The portable target system can be placed on side window or attached to vehicle headrests. The target box of both the ocular target device and the ocular target system can detect laser hits and transmit this information to the system computer to record the hits and hit sources. 
         [0029]    The training vest apparatus can include a stress feedback mechanism which provides a physical signal to the trainee when struck by a laser hit during the training simulation. The physical signal can be an electrical signal that is managed through the use of a TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) unit. When a laser hit is detected by the training vest apparatus, the TENS unit can respond by delivering an electrical nerve stimulating pulse to nerves that have a wide range signal strengths. In different embodiments or feedback setting, the nerve stimulating pulse can range from a low setting that provides a numbing sensation to a high setting that can temporarily incapacitate a muscle group. Realism aspects of the inventive firearm training apparatus can be further enhanced by allowing the use of training environments and locations where training can be conducted. The inventive system can include equipment that can be used in any environment. 
         [0030]    The inventive firearm training system uses features and technologies to achieve a realistic force on force firearm training system. In an embodiment, the inventive system includes an blank round handgun chamber block and laser assembly that are replace the barrel and chamber block assembly that change most semi-automatic handguns into blank firing weapons that fire blanks and emit a laser beam that accurately simulates the characteristics of a weapon firing live ammunition. Trainees can participate in the simulations using assigned weapons which build the skill sets required to master the user of a particular weapon. 
         [0031]    In an embodiment, the a laser system utilizing a culminated coded laser adapted to a specialized housing that is adaptable to handguns and long guns and allows subject shoot where weapon is aimed. A fiber optic training vest used by the inventive system can provide visual, auditory, and tactile feedback when a subject wearing the vest is hit with a laser beam in a the targeted area. In an embodiment, the ocular target comprised of plastic glasses can be connected to the fiber optic vest that allows for that eliminates specific types of targets during “force on force” training exercises. In an embodiment, the inventive system can also include a portable target system that can attached to the side window or headrest of any vehicle. 
         [0032]    The inventive firearm training system will be described with reference to the following drawings.  FIG. 1  illustrates an embodiment of a laser assembly  100 . The laser assembly can include: a laser module  101  attached to a printed circuit board  105  by means of a connecting washer  102 . The printed circuit board  105  includes a micro controller  111  that can transmit the identification signals to the laser module  101 . The transmission of the identification signals to the laser module  101  can be actuated by a pressure switch  115 . In other embodiments, the laser module  101  can be actuated by an audio sensor  113  such as a microphone. The printed circuit board  105  is coupled to a battery  109  for powering the laser assembly  100  components. 
         [0033]    The laser assembly  100  can also include a status light emitting diodes (LEDs). In this illustrated example, a first LED  117  can be used to indicate a power status and a second LED  118  can be used to indicate an active status of the laser. The first LED  117  and the second LED  118  can emit different colors to indicate the status of the laser assembly  100 . For example, a green light may indicate that the laser assembly  100  is operating properly and a red light may indicate a problem. 
         [0034]    With reference to  FIG. 2A , an embodiment of a laser housing  200  is illustrated and with reference to  FIG. 2B , a cross section view of an embodiment of a laser housing assembly is illustrated. The laser housing  200  is designed to accommodate the laser assembly  100  and can have threads  201  which can be coupled to a blank chamber block. This laser housing and blank chamber block can replace the normal barrel and chamber block for semi-automatic pistols to create a firearm simulation device. Alternatively, the laser housing can be coupled to a muzzle assembly adapted for assault rifle (AR) style weapons. 
         [0035]    The laser housing  200  can be used with a firearm that is shooting blanks. When the blank is shot, gunpowder or other explosive materials are ignited producing burning powder and generating high pressure gas. Some of this high pressure gas can directed to the outer surface of the laser housing  200  and some of the gas enters the vents  203 . The change in pressure can be detected by the pressure switch and/or the sound energy from the blank can be detected by the audio sensor. The blank signals from the audio sensor or the pressure switch can actuate the laser assembly which causes the laser module  101  to emit a laser beam  210  that concentrically aligned with the cylindrical laser housing  200  from the laser port  209 . The laser beam  210  is along the center axis of the cylindrical laser housing  200 . The end of the laser housing  200  is solid. In order to utilize internal pressure from a fired blank, the laser housing  200  can include vent holes  203  which can allow the gases from the fired blank cartridge to enter through the vent holes  203  and flow into the housing  200  to actuate the pressure sensor and/or sound sensor devices on the laser assembly  100 . The housing  200  can also provide user access to the electronic components on the laser assembly  100  to provide visible access to LED lights on the electronics which can indicate the status of the operational status of the electronics through a laser status LED viewing hole  207  and battery power through viewing hole  205 . The laser housing contains a laser port  209  to insure true center for shot accuracy.  FIG. 2B  illustrates the laser housing assembly comprised of the laser housing  200 , the laser assembly  100 , batteries  211 , and spacer  213 . 
         [0036]      FIG. 3A  illustrates a front view and  FIG. 3B  illustrates a back view of an embodiment of a fiber optic training vest  300  that can be worn by trainees. In an embodiment, the fiber optic training vest  300  can incorporate multiple fiber optical pads  301  that can be arranged in a target specific order to receive coded infrared laser hits from the blank firing training pistols or rifles. In an embodiment, the fiber optic training vest can indicate a laser beam hit by activating a light emitting diode (LED)  303  in a corresponding specific targeted area and activating a sound alarm when specific located optical pads  301  are hit with a gun or rifle fired infrared laser. The optical pads  301  can be made of a sheet of transparent or translucent plastic that can transmit laser light. In an embodiment, the LEDs  303  can be red. 
         [0037]    The optical pads  301  and the LEDs  303  can be coupled to infrared detector sensor boards  305  which can process signals from the optical pads  301  and actuated the LEDs  303  when the optical pads  301  are hit with an infrared laser. The sensor boards  305  can be coupled to controller electronics  307 . In the illustrated embodiment, the front of the vest  300  can include four separate optical pads  301 . When the laser beam strikes the optical pad  301 , the light is transmitted throughout the plastic material. Each optic pad  301  is connected by a fiber optic cable to a sensor board  305 . Light travels through the optical pad  301  and an optic cable to the sensor board  305  that converts the light signal to an electrical output signal. In response to the laser hit signals, the sensor board  305  can transmit a signal to a controller(s) that controls user feedback devices. For example, a controller can trigger or actuate transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)  309 . When the laser beams hit the fiber optical pads  301 , the system can actuate the TENS  309  which can be stress inoculators that can enhance the training experience. The TENS  309  can be actuated by the controller electronics  307 . Batteries  311  can power the vest  300  components. 
         [0038]    In the illustrated embodiment, the front of the vest  321  can include the optical pads  301 , the infrared detector sensor boards  305  and the back of the vest  323  can include the controller electronics  307 , TENS  309  and batteries  311 . In an embodiment, the vest  300  can be modified by adding additional optical pads  301  which can be added to the front of the vest  321  or the back of the vest  323 . The vest  300  can include additional optical pad connectors  313  which can be used to connect additional optical pads  301  and detector sensor boards  305  to the vest  300 . 
         [0039]      FIG. 4A  illustrates a semi auto barrel design that is a component of the handgun that is replaced with the inventive design of the handgun chamber block and laser housing assembly. During use, a life round is placed in the chamber block  401  and when fired, a bullet is fired out of the chamber block  401  through the barrel  400  and out of the firearm. The slide can move backwards and the empty casing is then removed from the chamber block  401  and passes through an ejection slot in the slide. A live round can be automatically inserted into the chamber block  401  and the process is repeated. 
         [0040]    As discussed, the barrel and chamber block  401  are replaced with a laser assembly and blank chamber block.  FIG. 4B  illustrates an embodiment of a blank round chamber block  413  which can be coupled to the laser housing  200  shown in  FIGS. 2   a  and  2   b . In the illustrated embodiments, the male threads  201  on an end of the laser housing  200  can be screwed into the female threads  412  in the handgun chamber block  401 . The assembled laser housing  200  and handgun chamber block  401  can be placed in a barrel assembly of a handgun and blank round can be placed in the blank round chamber  413 . When the trigger of the handgun is pulled, a hammer or striker can impact the back of the blank causing the blank to fire. 
         [0041]    There are many differences between the chamber block  401  and barrel  400  illustrated in  FIG. 4A  and the illustrated embodiment of the inventive laser housing  200  and handgun chamber block  413  used only for simulated firearm use shown in  FIG. 4B . More specifically, the barrel  400  is cylindrical structure that a bullet is fired from. In contrast the laser housing includes a laser and other electronic components uses the energy from the fired blank to actuate a switch that causes the laser to emit a beam of light. Although the blank chamber block  413  and laser housing  200  change the functionality, the inventive system is designed to provide an accurate simulation of firing live rounds. Thus, even though live rounds are not fired the blank chamber block  413  and laser housing  200  are designed to generate the required pressure when a blank is fired to replicate live fire characteristics of sound and recoil. 
         [0042]    The blank round chamber block  413  can include an atmospheric vent  405 , which provides a gas flow path directly from the blank round chamber  413  forward of the blank, for the direct discharge of gases from a fired blank round. The handgun chamber block  413  can also include a pressure switch vent  409  which is angled downward and is out of alignment with the laser housing  200 . In contrast to the barrel and chamber block shown in  FIG. 4A , gases from a fired blank do not flow directly from the blank round chamber block  413  into the laser housing  200 . Gases from the blank round chamber block  413  can flow out of pressure switch vent  409  and from an area outside the laser housing  200  through the vent holes  203  into the laser housing  200 . The gas flow into the laser housing  200  increases the internal pressure that is used to actuate the pressure switch in the laser assembly and any excess pressure can be vented out of the chamber block  401  through the pressure switch vent  409 . 
         [0043]    The described convoluted gas flow path out of the blank round chamber block  413  through the pressure switch vent  409  and into the laser housing  200  through the vents  203  can allow the laser housing  200  to be protected from the hot pressurization gases from the fired blanks. Thus, the designs of the blank round chamber block  413  and the laser housing  200  protect the sensitive electronic packages and components on the laser assembly in the laser housing. The handgun chamber block  413  eliminates the abutment surface  401  of the prior art. The elimination of the abutment surface  401  facilitates blow back operation of the slide. 
         [0044]    In an embodiment the blank round chamber  413  can be a custom chamber used for specific types of blank cartridges. In these embodiments, the blank round chamber  413  can have internal surfaces which may only allow blanks having a corresponding shape to be used with the blank round chamber  413 . This can be an important safety feature which can prevent users from accidentally attempting to use a live round with the blank round chamber  413 . The inventive system would be destroyed and the user may be injured if a live firing round is placed in the blank round chamber  413  and fired. 
         [0045]    When firing a blank round, the gases created by the burning powder must be vented in a manner that provides the proper amount of back pressure within the blank round chamber block  413 , in order to control the amount of energy transferred from the expanding gasses into the gun slide. This venting can also protect the laser assembly in the laser housing  200  that contains sensitive electronic packages that cannot withstand the violent pressures and hot gas flow from a gun powder discharge. Thus, other means of gas venting can be provided which diverts the hot gases from the laser barrel housing assembly pathway. The system should also allow the gun to operate successfully in blowback operation by providing the firing and semiautomatic operation of a normal ballistic fired momentum transferred operation. By strategically configuring the vent hole(s)  405  of the blank round chamber block  413  to vent out the top of the gun chamber, the gas energy can be directly transferred as recoil and noise. The recoil and noise parameters are required for training purposes to allow the gun in laser simulation mode to act like the actual gun and provide the feel of firing a live bullet based round. Capturing the expanded gases within the blank round chamber block  413  also allows maximum energy to be utilized to move the slide back and control the laser housing  200  and blank round chamber block  413  position for a successful ejection and reloading of a new blank round. Placing the vent hole  405  directly in the blank round chamber block  413  allows the vent hole  405  diameter to be specified and optimized to the correct size, in order to balance barrel spring loads, gun recoil, gun noise, and the ejection and loading of new rounds for semi-automatic gun performance. 
         [0046]      FIG. 5  illustrates an embodiment of a blank round chamber block  413  that includes a leaf spring  411  that is physically attached to the top surface. In this embodiment, a leaf spring  411  can include a slanted portion  417  and the leaf sprint  411  can be secured to the top of a handgun barrel block  401  to force the barrel chamber block  401  into its correct load and eject position. thru the motion of the slide over the slanted portion  417  of the leaf spring  411 . In order to facilitate the rearward motion of the barrel block  401 , a spring resistant device can be placed in the path of the rearward moving slide in order to allow the slide force to catch the barrel motion and move the barrel in a backward motion. A spring  411  or a spring type device attached to the barrel  401  can catch the slide rearward motion and converts the slide energy into a rearward motion of the barrel. Furthermore the spring  411  can allow for a smooth transfer of the slide energy through the deformation of the spring  411 , which avoids a destructive impact type transfer, if a solid material was used in the transfer of energy from the motion of the slide to the barrel block  401  motion. 
         [0047]    In order to accommodate the leaf spring  411 , the height of the blank round chamber block  413  can be lower than a normal barrel block (shown in  FIG. 4A ). The upper surface of the blank round chamber block  413  may not contact the inner surface of the slide  221  and the slanted portion  417  of the leaf spring  411  can extend out of the ejection slot in the slide. However, when a blank has been fired and the slide  221  moves backwards relative to the blank round chamber block  413 , the angled portion of the leaf spring  411  can be moved out of alignment with the ejection port and contact an inner surface of the slide  221  which exerts a downward force on the blank round chamber block  413 . When the slide  221  returns to its normal position, the angled slanted portion  417  of the leaf spring  411  can be moved back into alignment with the ejection port. 
         [0048]      FIG. 6A  illustrates a cross sectional side view of a handgun  220  where the barrel has been replaced with the laser housing  200  and a blank round chamber  413 . When the blank is fired, gas  421  from the blank is vented through the atmospheric vent hole  405  which immediately exits the handgun  220 . Some of the gas  421  from the fired blank is also vented through the pressure switch vent  409  which directs the gas  421  into a space between the laser housing  200  and the frame  223  of the handgun  220 . This gas  421  also flows through the vent holes  203  in the laser housing  200  where the pressure increase is detected by a pressure switch on the printed circuit board. The increased pressure actuates the pressure switch which causes the laser module to emit a laser light output from the handgun  220 . The junction of the laser housing  200  and the blank round chamber  413  is a solid structure so that gas from the fired blank do not flow directly from the interior of the blank round chamber  413  to the interior of the laser housing  200 . 
         [0049]    During normal operation, the slanted portion  417  can extend out of the ejection port of the handgun slide. However, when the blank is fired, the explosion of the gun powder is directed forward and causes the blank casing to move backwards against the slide  221  portion of the handgun.  FIG. 6B  illustrates how the spring forces the blank round chamber block  413  downward as slide  221  moves rearward. The force of the fired blank causes the slide  221  to move backwards relative to the blank round chamber  413 . The blank firing force also moves the blank casing out of the blank round chamber  413  and out the ejection port in the slide  221 . As the slide move backwards, the slanted portion  417  will slide under a forward edge of the ejection port and flatten against the upper surface of the blank round chamber  413 . This compression of the slanted portion  417  of the leaf spring  411  will result in a downward force on the chamber block  401 . As the slide  221  returns to its normal position, the slanted portion  417  of the leaf spring  411  returns to the ejection port area of the slide  221  and returns to its normal position. 
         [0050]    The leaf spring  411  can be very important in that it not only helps to reverse the motion of the blank round chamber  413  from a forward motion to backward motion, but it also imparts a downward force which assist the blank round chamber  413  to move downward, as required. This downward position of the blank round chamber  413  is important for ejecting the used round from the blank round chamber  413  and the loading of a new live round from the gun magazine. Also, the size of the spring  411  and stiffness of the allows for balancing the energy transferred from the fired blank round to the blank round chamber  413  and slide  221  motion; thereby controlling the amount of gun recoil and gun sound level. 
         [0051]      FIG. 7  Illustrates a compression spring  601  surrounding the laser barrel housing  200  that is coupled to a blank round chamber  413 . In an embodiment, a helical compression spring  601  can be placed over the laser barrel housing  200  of the firearm, to force the blank round chamber  413  into its correct new blank load and used blank eject position. The front portion of the compression spring  601  can be coupled to the front of the slide with the front portion of the laser housing  200  can extend out of the front of the slide. When the blank is fired, the slide can move backwards relative to the laser housing  200  and blank round chamber block  413  which causes compression of the spring  601 , by the rearward motion of the gun slide. 
         [0052]    In order to facilitate the rearward motion of the blank round chamber block  413 , a spring  601  is placed in the path of the rearward moving slide, in order to allow the slide force to transfer its rearward motion to the blank round chamber  413  and move the blank round chamber  413  in a backward motion. In the illustrated embodiment, an end of the coiled compression spring  601  can be attached to the blank round chamber  413  and can catch the slide&#39;s rearward motion and converts the slide energy into a rearward motion of the blank round chamber  413 . Furthermore the spring  601  can allow for a smooth transfer of the slide energy through the deformation of the spring  601 , which avoids a destructive impact type transfer which can occur if a solid material was used in the transfer of energy from the motion of the slide to the blank round chamber  413  motion. The compression spring  601  can also be important because it not only reverses the motion of the blank round chamber  413  from a forward motion to backward motion, but also allows for the balancing of energy transferred from the fired blank round to the blank round chamber  413  and slide motion, thereby controlling the amount of gun recoil and gun sound level. For some firearms, a nose piece  603  can be required around the front of the smaller diameter laser housing  200  to keep the laser housing  200  centered with the gun slide and receiver to assure the laser beam is on gun centerline which is required for accurate laser aiming. The nose piece  603  can also be used to keep the compression spring  601  from protruding thru the hole at a front end on the gun slide. 
         [0053]      FIG. 8A  illustrates a side view of an embodiment of a muzzle body  613  for automatic rifles attached to a flash suppressor  617 . The end of the muzzle body  613  can be threaded and screwed into the coupling nut  611  which is attached to a flash suppressor  617  mounted on an end of a barrel of the automatic rifle. The muzzle body  613  can have a plurality of vent holes  642  that allow some of the gases from a fired blank to escape. With reference to  FIG. 8B  a cross section side view of the muzzle body  613  and flash suppressor  617  is illustrated. A safety rod  615  extends through the flash suppressor  617  and the entire length of the barrel of the rifle to prevent a user from accidentally putting a live round in the rifle. The gas flow restrictor  631  slides into the muzzle body  613  and presses against a shoulder within the muzzle body  613 . The gas flow restrictor  631  can also be coupled to the end of the safety rod  615 . A portion of the coupling nut  611  can be pressed into the grooves on an end of the flash suppressor  617  to secure the muzzle body  613  to the flash suppressor  617 . 
         [0054]    With reference to  FIG. 8C , a cross sectional view is illustrated. When the muzzle  613  is attached to the flash suppressor  617  with the coupling nut  611  and a blank round is fired, most of the gases  640  from the fired blank flow through the flash suppressor  617  to the gas flow restrictor  631 . The bulk of the gas from the fired blank is required to cycle the rifle. The AR type firearm can use a gas system where most of the gas follows back to the chamber to push the bolt back to cycle the weapon. The gas flow restrictor  631  has small vent holes  632  that allow some of the gas  640  from the rifle barrel and flash suppressor to flow into the muzzle  613  and actuate a pressure switch on the laser assembly  619 . In response to gas  640  transmitted through the vent hole(s)  632 , a pressure switch on the laser assembly  619  can be actuated causing a laser  618  to emit a laser beam  210  from the end of the muzzle  613  that can be directed in the same path as a live round fired from the rifle. 
         [0055]    The laser beam  210  is concentric and aligned with a center axis of the cylindrical muzzle  613 , flash suppressor  617  and barrel of the rifle. The inventive system can provide highly accurate laser beam  210  path that is in alignment that matches the path of a live bullet fired from the rifle because the laser  618  is on the center axis of the cylindrical muzzle  613 , flash suppressor  617  and barrel of the rifle. This configuration is substantially different than U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0175661 which discloses a system where the laser attached to an upper surface of a rifle. The laser beam emitted by the laser is parallel to the barrel of the rifle but out of alignment with the center axis of the barrel and flash suppressor. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0175661 also does not require vents in the muzzle or a gas flow restrictor  631  because the electrical components of this system are not in the path of the gases from the fired blank. Thus, there is no need or suggestion of vent or gas flow restriction mechanisms because the electrical components are not in the gas flow path. 
         [0056]      FIG. 9  illustrates an embodiment of ocular target assembly  640  that can include infrared (IR) sensors mounted on the glasses  641 . The IR sensors  643  can be in communication with an infrared receiver  645  and these components can be powered by a battery  649  or other power supply. A laser beam can be emitted from a handgun or a rifle equipped with the laser assembly (as described above) during the firing of a blank round toward a person wearing the ocular target assembly  641 . When the laser beam strikes on any part of the glasses  641  surface, the light from the laser enters the transparent glasses  641  and some of the light travels through the glasses  641 . This light is detected by mounted IR sensor(s)  643  which sends an electrical signal through wires to the sensor receiver  645 . The sensor receiver  645  can confirm that the laser signal contains the correct code and signal strength confirming a laser strike from an authorized laser source. The sensor receiver  645  then actuates the LED light(s)  647  on the glasses  641  to be turned “on” to confirm an accurate and correct strike. The glasses  641  can be made from Lexan™ and can be directly coupled to the laser detection sensors  643 . 
         [0057]      FIG. 10A  illustrates a front view and  FIG. 10B  illustrates a back view of a portable, self contained, infrared laser detection system  660  comprised of: a plastic molded box  661 , plastic mounting plate  663 , assembled with laser detectors  665  and LEDs  667  attached to a sensor assembly  669  connected to a controller containing a power indicator LED  671 , hit indicator  673 , reset button  675  alarm  677  and power switch  679 . The detection system is power by a battery pack  681  located in rear of unit. The detection system can be attached to object using the strap  683  located in rear of box. Infrared detection sensors  661  can be mounted in direct physical contact with a plastic infrared receiving and transmission plate  663 . The sensors  661  may be infrared sensor chips which are mounted on the back of a window box plastic receiver plate. Sensors  661  can be arranged in a target specific order to receive coded infrared laser hits from a blank firing training pistol or rifle. The sensors  661  can be coupled to detector sensor electronics  665  which can be coupled to controller electronics  667 . When the infrared detection sensor  661  is hit with a laser, the hit signal is transmitted from the sensor  661  to the detector sensor electronics  665  which can illuminated the LED  659  to provide a visual indication of the laser hit. A battery  669  can power the components of the laser detection system  660 . 
         [0058]    This window box system can be used in conjunction with a pistol or rifle incorporated infrared laser module, designed and integrated with a printed circuit board, to activate the firing of a coded infrared laser beam. The infrared laser beam sends a coded signal when activated by a pressure sensitive switch or a sound sensitive switch, when using a blank firing pistol or rifle. 
         [0059]    The ocular laser hit detection system described above with reference to  FIG. 9  and the self contained infrared laser detection system described above with reference to  FIGS. 10A and 10B  are substantially different than the fiber optic training vest laser hit detection system described above with reference to  FIGS. 3A and 3B . The ocular system and the self contained infrared laser detection system utilize light sensors physically attached directly to transparent plastic structures. When the laser light contacts the transparent plastic structure, the laser light enters and is transmitted throughout the transparent plastic structure. The distance that the light is dispersed within the transparent plastic structure can vary with the intensity of the light beam, the plastic material and the sensitivity of the sensor. In an embodiment, the light beam may disperse up to about 8 inches. Thus, in some embodiments, light sensors can be placed within 8 inches of at least one or more light sensors on the transparent structure so that any laser hit will be detected by at least one light sensor. A light sensor detects the light transmitted through the plastic structure and converts the light sensor signal into an electrical signal that is transmitted through a wire to a sensor receiver. 
         [0060]    In contrast to the light sensors in direct physical contact with the transparent plastic structures, the fiber optic training vest described above with reference to  FIGS. 3A and 3B  utilizes optical pads which include many optical fibers which are coupled to the optical pad. When laser light strikes the optical pad, the light is transmitted from the optical pads to the optical fibers to the sensor board. Because light must travel through the optical pad and optical fiber, the light much have a fairly high energy level. All output devices can be coupled to the sensor board through electrical cables. Therefore optical pad embodiments require a large number of optical fibers in order to detect and transmit laser strikes to more light sensors mounted on the sensor board. 
         [0061]    However, in other embodiments a vest worn by a user can be include a plurality of targets made of transparent plastic sheets. Each of the transparent plastic sheets are in direct physical contact with one or more laser light sensors as described above. When the laser light contacts the transparent plastic sheet, the light is transmitted through the transparent plastic sheet and detected by the sensor in direct physical contact with the plastic sheet. The sensor can convert the light signal into an electrical signal that is transmitted through a wire to a sensor receiver. The sensor receiver can confirm that the laser signal contains the correct code and signal strength confirming a laser strike from an authorized laser source. The sensor receiver can then actuates an LED light(s) on the transparent plastic sheet to confirm a laser strike in the location of the strike. 
         [0062]    Thus, all of the described laser strike sensors can utilize either light sensors in direct contact with the transparent target material or targets that are coupled to optical fibers that extend from the target to one or more infrared sensor receivers. For example in an embodiment, an ocular glasses system can include transparent be connected to an optical cable that is attached to a light sensor on the infrared sensor receiver. In this embodiment, the sensor is not in direct physical connection with the transparent plastic of the glasses. A portable, self contained, infrared laser detection system can also include a plastic receiving and transmission plate that can be connect via an optical fiber connecting cable to a light sensor on the sensor receiver. Again, in this embodiment, the sensor is not in direct physical connection with the target struck by the laser. 
         [0063]      FIGS. 11A and 11B  illustrate side views of embodiments of specially formed blanks used with firearms during the simulation training  FIG. 12A  illustrates a 9 mm blank that can be formed from a 9 mm win mag case. Similarly,  FIG. 12B  illustrates a 0.40 caliber blank that can be formed from a 10 mm mag case. Each of these rounds can be formed with special dies and can conform to uniquely reamed chambers. In an embodiment, the illustrated shoulder can be added to the blank so that it conforms to the contour of the internal surface of the blank round chamber block described above. Another feature of the inventive blanks is the narrow top of the blank which prevents live rounds from being chambered. A standard profile blank that would fit a standard chamber may not properly function with the modified training guns. Because of these special configuration features, no other commercially available blank will fit into the corresponding reamed chambers. With reference to Table 1 below, the dimensions of the reference numbers in  FIG. 12A  for a 9 mm are listed. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 701 
                 702 
                 703 
                 704 
                 705 
                 706 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 0.322 inch 
                 0.372 inch 
                 0.388 inch 
                 0.625 inch 
                 0.700 inch 
                 1.140 inch 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0064]    In this embodiment, the outer diameter of the 9 mm specially formed blank case  702  is 0.372 inch. In contrast, a 9 mm live round can have a case diameter of 0.386 inch. In an embodiment, the blank round chamber block  413  described above can be used with 9 mm blanks and have inner diameter that is 0.380 inch that only allows the blank round to be inserted. Because the inner diameter (0.380 inch) of the blank round chamber block  413  is smaller than the outer case diameter of a live round (0.386 inch), the live 9 mm round cannot be placed in the blank round chamber block  413 . 
         [0065]    With reference to Table 2 below, the dimensions of the reference numbers in  FIG. 12B  for a 10 mm are listed. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 711 
                 712 
                 713 
                 714 
                 715 
                 716 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 0.330 inch 
                 0.410 inch 
                 0.425 inch 
                 0.631 inch 
                 0.825 inch 
                 1.125 inch 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0066]    In this embodiment, the outer diameter of the 10 mm blank case  712  is 0.410 inch. In contrast, a 10 mm live round can have a case diameter of 0.423 inch. In an embodiment, the blank round chamber block  413  described above can be used with 10 mm blanks and have inner diameter that is 0.416 inch that allows the 10 mm blank round to be inserted. However, because the inner diameter of the blank round chamber block  413  (0.416 inch) is smaller than the outer case diameter of a live round (0.423 inch), the live 10 mm round cannot be placed in the blank round chamber block  413 . Thus, the blank round chamber block  413  can prevent the accidental use of live rounds when a handgun has been modified by replacing the barrel and chamber block with the laser assembly and blank round chamber block  413  as described. 
         [0067]    The present disclosure, in various embodiments, includes components, methods, processes, systems and/or apparatus substantially as depicted and described herein, including various embodiments, sub combinations, and subsets thereof. Those of skill in the art will understand how to make and use the present disclosure after understanding the present disclosure. The present disclosure, in various embodiments, includes providing devices and processes in the absence of items not depicted and/or described herein or in various embodiments hereof, including in the absence of such items as may have been used in previous devices or processes, e.g., for improving performance, achieving ease and/or reducing cost of implementation. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of any single foregoing disclosed embodiment.