Abstract:
A pyrotechnic training system includes a firing block assembly housed in a first container, a pressure-armed trigger module having two triggers housed in a second container, and a power pack/switch system that connects the firing block assembly and triggers. The first and second containers are remote from each other, and may be made from common objects that might be found in combat zones. Quick-release pins inserted through components of the firing block prevents their separation by exploding ordinance within the firing block, maintaining close electrical contacts within the firing block. The pressure-armed triggers employ a mechanical system that energizes an electrical circuit when pressure is released. Such triggers are arranged such that opening or moving the container triggers an explosion at the remote firing block assembly.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/431,599, filed on Jan. 11, 2011, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention is directed towards pyrotechnic training units, and is more specifically directed towards pyrotechnic improvised explosive device (IED) simulators and external triggering devices for same. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    Enemy combatants often use explosive devices such as improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to cause damage, injury, and death. IEDs remain a leading killer of Allied forces. Insurgents search for discarded weapon materials amid the abundant rubble to make homemade explosives (HMEs). For example, a common technique involves packing expended artillery rounds with new explosives and emplacing them as road-side or buried IEDs. Protection of vehicles and personnel against such threats is an important issue in the area of defense research. Accordingly, personnel are trained to deal with homemade explosives. During training, military and law enforcement personnel use IED simulators that help personnel identify homemade explosives and react to their effects in real-time simulations. Simulators should replicate the explosive effect of an improvised road-side bomb. The simulators of the present invention can simulate the audio and visual impacts of explosions of an IED in a live training scenario without the likelihood of injury. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    An apparatus for simulating an explosive device, in one exemplary embodiment, includes at least one firing block having a top portion including at least one receptacle designed to receive one or more types of pyrotechnic cartridges, a bottom portion embedded with at least one contact assembly in substantial alignment with a corresponding receptacle, and an electronic housing; and a base designed to support each of the firing blocks, wherein each of the firing blocks is equipped with quick release pins, which, when connected to additional components of the firing block, are designed to impart durability and sustainability over time to the firing block. The quick release pins and additional components of the firing block help to maintain intimate contact between the top portion and the bottom portion that is required to allow for passage of electricity between an electrical contact on each of the pyrotechnic cartridges and respective contact assembly on the bottom portion, which in turn completes a circuit indicating that the apparatus is properly latched and allowing circuitry to continue with an arming procedure. In an embodiment, an apparatus of the present invention can be housed in an artillery shell casing with or without a blast cavity. In an embodiment, an apparatus of the present invention can be housed in common lidded containers with or without a blast cavity. In an embodiment, an apparatus of the present invention can be housed in a metal can with a blast cavity. In an embodiment, an apparatus of the present invention can be housed in a jug with a blast cavity. In an embodiment, an apparatus of the present invention can be housed in a replica of an animal carcass with or without a blast cavity. In an embodiment, an apparatus of the present invention can be housed in a pressure cooker without a blast cavity. 
         [0005]    In an embodiment, each of the firing blocks releasably engages the base. 
         [0006]    In an embodiment, the electronic housing releasably engages the base, either directly or indirectly via a single platform or multiple platforms. In an embodiment, each of the firing blocks is operable to simulate one or more distinct signatures of an explosive device. In an embodiment, each of the receptacles is adapted to receive at least two different types of pyrotechnic rounds, such as a US Army type classified round or a non-type classified round. In such embodiments, each of the receptacles includes a first boring having a first diameter, a second boring having a second diameter, which is greater than the first diameter, and a third boring positioned between the first boring and the second boring, the third boring having a third diameter, which is greater than the first diameter but less than the second diameter. In an embodiment, each of the firing blocks includes at least one receptacle having a constant diameter. In an embodiment, each of the firing blocks includes two or more receptacles each having a constant diameter that is equal to each other. In an embodiment, each of the firing blocks includes two or more receptacles each having a constant diameter that is different from one another. 
         [0007]    In an embodiment, the apparatus also includes a power pack operable to provide power to, and to control the operation of, each of the firing blocks. The power pack provides power to control the operation of each of the firing blocks and has multi-triggering, user-controlled capabilities chosen from one of: radio-controlled (RC) detonation; victim-operated (VO) detonation; command/hard wired (CW) detonation; disable power/jamming functions; or combinations thereof. 
         [0008]    In an embodiment, the apparatus further includes at least one decoy external triggering device in operable communication with the power pack by way of a plug and play cable connection, the decoy triggering device being actuated by a user to trigger detonation of the selected rounds. In an embodiment, the base of the firing block includes a handle and multiple ports for power connection and daisy-chain capability with the power pack. In an embodiment, the firing block/base assembly is housed in an artillery shell casing with a blast cavity. In an embodiment, the firing block/base assembly is housed in a pressure cooker without a blast cavity. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0009]    The presently disclosed embodiments will be further explained with reference to the attached drawings, wherein like structures are referred to by like numerals throughout the several views. The drawings shown are not necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the presently disclosed embodiments. 
           [0010]      FIG. 1  is a partially exploded perspective view of an illustrative embodiment of a firing block/base assembly adapted for use in a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present invention; 
           [0011]      FIGS. 2A and 2B  are side elevational views of the firing block/base assembly of  FIG. 1 , portions of which have been broken away and cross-sectioned to better illustrate a quick release pin which cooperates with additional components of the firing block to impart durability and sustainability over time to the firing block; 
           [0012]      FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a top portion of the firing block shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0013]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the base and a bottom portion of the firing block shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0014]      FIG. 5  is a perspective view of an illustrative embodiment of a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present invention that includes the firing block/base assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0015]      FIG. 6  is an exploded view of the pyrotechnic IED simulator illustrated in  FIG. 5 ; 
           [0016]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a firing block/base assembly constructed in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0017]      FIG. 8  is a schematic view of a pyrotechnic training system constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention in which an external triggering device is shown connected to a pyrotechnic IED simulator through a power pack; 
           [0018]      FIG. 9  is an exploded view of the pyrotechnic IED simulator shown in  FIG. 8  which has been partially cut-away to show a firing block/base assembly constructed in accordance with the present invention; 
           [0019]      FIG. 10A  is an exploded view of the external triggering device shown in  FIG. 8 , which has been partially cut-away to show a perspective view of a trigger module constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0020]      FIG. 10B  is an exploded side view of the external triggering device shown in  FIG. 8 , which has been partially cut-away to show a side view of the trigger module; 
           [0021]      FIG. 11  is a schematic drawing of a front view of the trigger module of  FIG. 10A  having base (lower) and lid (upper) trigger switches in their armed positions; 
           [0022]      FIG. 12  is a schematic drawing of a front view of the trigger module of  FIG. 10A  in which the base trigger switch is shown in its armed position and the lid trigger switch is shown in its triggered position; 
           [0023]      FIG. 13  is a schematic drawing of a front view of the trigger module of  FIG. 10A  in which the base trigger switch is shown in its triggered position and the lid trigger switch is shown in its armed position; and 
           [0024]      FIG. 14  is a schematic drawing of a front view of the trigger module of  FIG. 10A  in which the base and lid trigger switches are shown in their triggered positions. 
       
    
    
       [0025]    While the above-identified drawings set forth presently disclosed embodiments, other embodiments are also contemplated, as noted in the discussion. This disclosure presents illustrative embodiments by way of representation and not limitation. Numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art which fall within the scope and spirit of the principles of the presently disclosed embodiments. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0026]    The present invention relates to pyrotechnic training units, and is more specifically directed towards pyrotechnic improvised explosive device (IED) simulators that replicate the explosive effect of an improvised road-side bomb. The simulators of the present invention can simulate homemade explosives (HMEs), which is a form of an improvised explosive device (IED), and provides realistic, yet safe, audio and visual simulations of explosions. The simulators of the present invention feature at least one firing block designed for durability and sustainability over time. 
         [0027]    In an embodiment, a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present invention includes at least one firing block releasably engaging a base. Each of the firing blocks includes a top portion, a bottom portion and an electronic housing. The electronic housing releasably engages the base, either directly or indirectly via a single platform or multiple platforms. Each of the firing blocks is equipped with quick release pins, which, when connected to additional components of the firing block, are designed to impart durability and sustainability over time to the firing block. Each of the firing blocks is operable to simulate one or more distinct signatures of an explosive device. The quick release pins and additional components of the firing block help to maintain the intimate contact between the top portion and the bottom portion that is required to allow for the passage of electricity between the electrical contacts on the pyrotechnic cartridges and respective contact assemblies on the bottom portion, which in turn completes a circuit indicating that the pyrotechnic IED simulator is properly latched and allowing the circuitry to continue with an arming procedure. 
         [0028]    In an embodiment, each firing block includes one receptacle capable of receiving at least one of a US Army type classified round or a non-type classified round. In an embodiment, each firing block includes two receptacles, each receptacle capable of receiving at least one type of a US Army type classified round or a non-type classified round. In such embodiments, each receptacle may have a constant diameter that is equal to or different from each other. In an embodiment, each firing block includes two receptacles, each receptacle being capable of receiving at least two different types of a US Army type classified round or a non-type classified round. In such embodiments, each of the receptacles may include a first boring having a first diameter, a second boring having a second diameter, which is greater than the first diameter, and a third boring positioned between the first boring and the second boring, the third boring having a third diameter, which is greater than the first diameter but less than the second diameter. In an embodiment, the pyrotechnic IED simulator also includes a power pack operable to provide power to, and to control the operation of, each of the firing blocks. The power pack provides power to control the operation of each firing block and has multi-triggering user-controlled capabilities chosen from one of: radio-controlled (RC) detonation; victim-operated (VO) detonation; command/hard wired (CW) detonation; disable power/jamming functions; or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the pyrotechnic IED simulator further includes at least one external triggering device in operable communication with the power pack by way of a plug and play cable connection, the triggering device being controllable by a user to trigger detonation of the selected round(s). In an embodiment, the base includes a handle and multiple ports for power connection and daisy-chain capability. In an embodiment, the pyrotechnic IED simulator is housed in an artillery shell casing with a blast cavity. In an embodiment, the pyrotechnic IED simulator is housed in a pressure cooker without a blast cavity. 
         [0029]      FIG. 1  is a partially exploded perspective view of an illustrative embodiment of a firing block/base assembly  100  adapted for use in a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present invention. The assembly  100  includes a firing block  10  releasably engaging a base  90 . The firing block  10  represents a device operable to simulate one or more distinct signatures, for example, the visual, audio, or both visual and audio signatures, of an explosive device. The nature of a blast can create at least one of a realistic audio (loud bang), visual (smoke puff) or flash signature of an explosion. In an embodiment, the assembly  100  produces a large explosive effect, offering effective, realistic survivability training for combat situations. In an embodiment, the assembly  100  produces realistic visual, audible and concussive effects of an IED in a safe manner. In an embodiment, the base  90  is a 100% heavy-gauge aluminum base that stabilizes the concussive effect of a two-round blast. It should be understood that the substantially rectangular-shaped base  90  can be designed in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and materials. A cable  80 , which is attaches to ports  85  on the firing block  10  (see  FIG. 2A ), attaches to ports on a power pack (not shown) thus establishing a pathway for communicating a detonation command to the firing block  10 . 
         [0030]    The firing block  10  can receive an explosive device, such as a pyrotechnic cartridge or material. The firing block  10  includes a top portion  20 , a bottom portion  40  and an electronic housing  50 . The electronic housing  50  releasably engages the base  90 , either directly or indirectly via a single platform or multiple platforms  55 . Latch keepers  30  cooperate with latch-to-latch assemblies  32  to connect the top portion  20  to the bottom portion  40  and electronic housing  50 . The bottom portion  40  may include electrical contacts (not visible) capable of transmitting a detonation signal. Such electrical contacts are discussed more fully with respect to  FIG. 4 . In the embodiment illustrated, the latch keepers  30 /latch assemblies  32  are provided on each of the shorter widths of the top portion  20  and the electronic housing  50 , at opposite ends of the firing block  10 . In other embodiments, the latch keepers  30 /latch assemblies  32  may be provided on the longer widths of the firing block  10 , or a latch keeper  30 /latch assembly  32  may be provided on one end and hinges (not shown) provided on the other end. In a hinged embodiment, the hinges may secure the top portion  20  and bottom portion  40  to each other such that they can swing away from the electronic housing  50  as a single element. As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the top portion  20  includes a magazine  25  having two receptacles  12 . It should be understood that the magazine  25  can include any number of receptacles  12 , such as one receptacle, two receptacles, three receptacles or more. Each of the receptacles  12  can receive one or more pyrotechnic cartridges (not visible) that can direct a pyrotechnic explosion in a predetermined direction. The pyrotechnic cartridge includes pyrotechnic material which comprises a chemical mixture that can be used to generate an exothermic reaction by combustion, deflagration, or detonation to produce visual and audio effects. The material may include an oxidizing agent (oxidant) and a fuel that produces the exothermic reaction when heated to its ignition temperature. The pyrotechnic cartridge may have electrical contacts (for example, a center contact pin/electrode and an outer contact pin electrode) operable to receive a detonation signal to heat the fuel. Any suitable pyrotechnic cartridge that displays at least one of an audio or visual (e.g., flash bang effect) signature and/or a star cluster effect may be used, for example, a type classified US Army approved ammunition/pyrotechnic (e.g., M30 rounds or M31 black or yellow smoke). Any suitable pyrotechnic cartridge that realistically and safely simulates the smoke, bang and flash signatures of various weapons can be used. In an embodiment, each receptacle is adapted to receive at least one of a US Army type classified round or a non-type classified round. 
         [0031]    In an embodiment, the magazine  25  includes one receptacle  12  having a constant diameter. In an embodiment, the magazine  25  includes one receptacle  12  having a varying diameter. In an embodiment, the magazine  25  includes two or more receptacles  12  each having a constant diameter that is the same as each other receptacle  12 . In an embodiment, the magazine  25  includes two or more receptacles  12  each having a constant diameter that is different from another receptacle  12 . In an embodiment, each of the receptacles  12  includes a first boring having a first diameter, a second boring having a second diameter, which is greater than the first diameter, and a third boring positioned between the first boring and the second boring, the third boring having a third diameter, which is greater than the first diameter but less than the second diameter. The first, second and third diameters can be selected such that each of the receptacles can selectively and interchangeably receive at least two different types of rounds, such as an M30 and an M31 round. In an embodiment, each of the receptacles  12  can hold a US Army type classified M30 round. The US Army type classified M30 rounds can realistically yet safely simulate the smoke puff (visual) and bang (audio) signatures of an IED, without producing a starburst (flash) signature, such as those found in a US Army type classified M31 rounds. In an embodiment, each of the receptacles  12  can hold a US Army type classified M31 black or yellow smoke round. In an embodiment, the receptacles  12  can hold one US Army type classified M30 round, and one US Army type classified M31 black or yellow smoke round. In an embodiment, each of the receptacles  12  has a single boring of a single diameter for accepting only one type of US Army type classified round, such as a US Army type classified M30 round. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to use a US Army type classified round that includes a flash starburst-signature, as long as the area near the blast is considered nonflammable, i.e., there are no trees, brush, fuel, or any other material or object that is considered ignitable. 
         [0032]    The firing block  10  is designed to repeatedly fire pyrotechnic cartridges during a single and/or multiple training sessions. Even though the latch keepers  30 /latch assemblies  32  connect the top portion  20  to the bottom portion  40  and electronic housing  50 , a detonation of the pyrotechnic cartridges can cause upwards pressure which can result in the top portion  20  separating from the bottom portion  40 , and thus breaking the electrical connection between the pyrotechnic cartridges and the contact assemblies in the bottom portion  40 , thereby rendering the firing block  10  inoperable. To inhibit this from transpiring, the firing block  10  is equipped with quick release pins  60 , here shown equipped with tether lanyard  61 , which, when connected to additional components of the firing block  10 , such as machined parts  22  and  52  described further herein, are designed to impart durability and sustainability over time to the firing block  10 , see, for example,  FIGS. 1 and 2A . As illustrated in  FIGS. 2A and 3 , a machined part  22  having two arms  23  and  24  of material, each arm  23  and  24  having through holes  26  and  27 , respectively, and spaced apart by a distance d, is structurally engaged with at least one outer side surface of the top portion  20 . In an embodiment, the machined part  22  is engaged with the outer side surface of the top portion  20  using screws. In the embodiment illustrated, the machined part  22  is provided on the outer surface along the longer length of the top portion  20  (as compared to the latch keepers  30 /latch assemblies  32  which are provided on the outer surface along the shorter width of the top portion  20 ). As illustrated in  FIGS. 2A ,  2 B and  4 , a machined part  52  having one arm  53  of material, the arm  53  having a through hole  56  and having a thickness a which is slightly less than the distance d of machined part  22 , is structurally engaged with at least one outer side surface of the electronic housing  50 . In an embodiment, the machined part  52  is engaged with the outer side surface of the electronic housing  50  using screws. In the embodiment illustrated, the machined part  52  is provided on the outer surface along the longer length of the electronic housing  50  (as compared to the latch keepers  30 /latch assemblies  32  which are provided on the outer surface along the shorter width of the electronic housing  50 ). In the embodiment illustrated, two sets of machined parts  22 / 52  are positioned diagonally from each other on the firing block  10  (see  FIG. 6 ). It should be understood that the firing block  10 , in an embodiment, includes one or more sets of machined parts  22 / 52 . 
         [0033]    The machined parts  22  and  52  marry (see, for example,  FIG. 2A ) so that through holes  26 ,  27  and  56  create one large through hole for accepting and locking quick release pin  60 . In an embodiment, the quick release pins  60  are detent pins with two balls  63  that offer a non-positive lock that pushes in and pulls out of the machined parts  22  and  52 . In an embodiment, to insert a detent pin  60  through the through holes  26 ,  27  and  56  of machined parts  22  and  52 , one pushes the detent pin  60  through the through holes  26 ,  27  and  56  and the locking balls  63  retract into the body of the pin  60  to allow its passage there through. When the detent pin  60  is fully inserted through the through holes  26 ,  27  and  56 , the locking balls  63  are extended by spring force (see, for example, close-up in  FIG. 2B ) to thereby releasably lock the detent pin  60  in place. When one pulls on the end of the detent pin  60 , the spring-loaded locking balls  63  retract so that the detent pin  60  can be removed from the through holes  26 ,  27  and  56  of the machined parts  22  and  52 . An example of such a non-positive lock quick release pin is Avibank Mfg. Inc.&#39;s standard detent pin—no shoulder. In an embodiment, the quick release pins  60  are detent pins with two balls  63  that offer a positive lock that require a push of a button (not shown) to release the balls out of the machined parts  22  and  52 . In an embodiment, machine parts  22  and  52  are manufactured from a stainless steel material. In an embodiment, the quick release pins  60  are manufactured from a stainless steel material. 
         [0034]    As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , the bottom portion  40  is attached to an electronic housing  50 , which is releasably attached to the base  90 . The base  90  includes attachment means  70  having through hole  75 , for purpose which are described hereinafter. The bottom portion  40  is made from aluminum and has embedded therein a plurality (two are shown in the embodiment) of contact assemblies which include a center conductive disc  44  and a peripheral conductive disc  46 , which in turn are attached to the electronic housing  50 . The contact assemblies are in substantial alignment with a corresponding receptacle  12 . In an embodiment, peripheral conductive disc  46  is made from electrically conductive rubber, and allows for variations in the length of outer contact posts on different pyrotechnic cartridges. In an embodiment, center conductive disc  44  is made from electrically conductive rubber. In an embodiment, electrical insulation is positioned between the center conductive disc  44  and the peripheral conductive disc  46 . Various tapped holes may be provided in the electronic housing  50  to bolt the bottom portion  40  to the electronic housing  50 . Some of the components of the contact assemblies form a continuous electrical path from the outside of the assembly  100  to the inside of the electronic housing  50 . The electronic housing  50  includes an electromagnetic interference (EMI) filter (not shown) for preventing electrostatic discharge. When the magazine  25 , with pyrotechnic cartridges inserted, is engaged to the bottom portion  40 , the center contact pin of a pyrotechnic cartridge makes ohmic contact with center conductive disc  44 . In an embodiment, the center conductive disc  44  in turn makes ohmic contact with a stainless steel transfer post (not shown), and a stainless steel bridge spring (not shown)completes the electrical path from the stainless steel transfer post to an interface circuit board (not shown) which may reside within or outside of the electronic housing  50 . The peripheral conductive disc  46  makes ohmic contact with the outer contact post of a pyrotechnic cartridge and also with the aluminum bottom portion  40  which is electrically common to complete the circuit. In an embodiment (as shown in  FIG. 4 ), the peripheral conductive disc  46  is similar in appearance to a flat washer. The flat washer shape of the peripheral conductive disc  46  enables the operator to insert a pyrotechnic cartridge into the chamber of the magazine  25  with the position of the outer electrode of the pyrotechnic cartridge being orientated anywhere on peripheral conductive disc  46  while always establishing electrical contact with the peripheral conductive disc  46 . Nylon flange bushings and nylon sleeves may be used to electrically insulate or isolate the stainless steel transfer post from ohmically contacting the bottom portion  40  or the electronic housing  50 . In an embodiment, a non-conductive washer is used to form a seal between the bottom portion  40  and electronic housing  50 . Guide bolts  45  located on the bottom portion  40  engage with (i.e., releasable mate or protrude into) bored holes (not visible) located on top portion  20 . 
         [0035]      FIGS. 5 and 6  show an illustrative embodiment of a pyrotechnic IED simulator  200  of the present invention that replicates the explosive effect of an improvised road-side bomb. The pyrotechnic IED simulator  200  includes the assembly  100  of  FIG. 1  housed in an artillery shell casing  240  with a blast cavity  250 . The artillery shell casing  240  may be designed to include a nose portion  210  (open or closed), an ogive portion  220 , a rotating band portion  230  (which can be solid or have grooves), a bourrelet portion  280  and a base portion  270  (with or without a “tracer” cavity). The assembly  100  includes attachment means  70  having through hole  75  (one is clearly visible, two additional attachment means are on the opposite side although any number of attachment means are possible and still within the scope and spirit of the present invention) for connecting the assembly  100  with the blast cavity  250  of the artillery shell casing  240 . The blast cavity  250  has a number of through holes  275  that will align with the through holes  75  of the attachment means  70 . When positioned together, quick release pins  260 , here shown equipped with tether lanyards  261 , connect the assembly  100  with the artillery shell casing  240  via the blast cavity  250 . In an embodiment, the quick release pins  260  are detent pins with two balls that offer a non-positive lock that pushes in and pulls out. In an embodiment, to insert a detent pin  260  through the through holes  75  and  275  of the attachment means  70  and the blast cavity  250 , respectively, one pushes the detent pin  260  through the through holes  75  and  275  and the locking balls retract into the body of the pin  260  to allow its passage there through. When the detent pin  260  is fully inserted through the through holes  75  and  275 , the locking balls are extended by spring force to thereby releasably lock the detent pin  260  in place. When one pulls on the end of the detent pin  260 , the spring-loaded balls retract so that the detent pin  260  can be removed from the through holes  75  and  275  of the blast cavity  250  and attachment means  70 . An example of such a non-positive lock quick release pin is Avibank Mfg. Inc.&#39;s standard detent pin/no shoulder. In an embodiment, the quick release pins  260  are detent pins with two balls that offer a positive lock that require a push of a button to release the balls. The blast cavity  250  channels the blast for maximum sound. In the embodiment illustrated, two (2) pyrotechnic cartridges can be fired simultaneously. In an embodiment, the blast cavity  250  is an aluminum blast cavity which can be anodized but may also be unfinished. In an embodiment, the artillery shell casing  240  is designed to replicate the proportions of a 155 mm artillery shell casing and is manufactured from a polyurethane rubber shell, which is a non-hazardous material with low flammability, having a hollowed out portion for the blast cavity  250 . It should be understood that an artillery shell casing  240  of the present disclosure can come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and materials to replicate a wide variety of artillery shell casings. 
         [0036]    In an embodiment, a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present invention which is provided for replicating the explosive effect of an improvised road-side bomb includes the assembly  100  of  FIG. 1  housed in a tin cooking-oil can with a blast cavity. In an embodiment, a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present invention which is provided for replicating the explosive effect of an improvised road-side bomb includes the assembly  100  of  FIG. 1  housed in a metal can with a blast cavity. In an embodiment, a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present invention, which is provided for replicating the explosive effect of an improvised road-side bomb, includes the assembly  100  of  FIG. 1  housed in a jug with a blast cavity. In an embodiment, a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present invention which is provided for replicating the explosive effect of an improvised road-side bomb, includes the assembly  100  of  FIG. 1  housed in a replica of an animal carcass with a blast cavity. In an embodiment, a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present invention which is provided for replicating the explosive effect of an improvised road-side bomb, includes the assembly  100  of  FIG. 1  housed in a pressure cooker without a blast cavity. 
         [0037]      FIG. 7  shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a firing block/base assembly  300  of the present invention that includes a plurality of firing blocks  10  releasably engaging a base  390 , wherein the base  390  includes a handle  385  and a front control panel  395 . In an embodiment, the assembly  300  produces a large explosive effect, offering effective, realistic survivability training for combat situations. In an embodiment, the assembly  300  produces realistic visual, audible and concussive effects of an IED in a safe manner. In an embodiment, the front control panel  395  includes at least one of a tandem output connector, a power switch, light emitting diodes (LEDs), an input connector, and a programming connector. The front control power  395  has capabilities for power connection and daisy-chain capability. The handle,  385  may be a black molded nylon handle affixed to a side of the base  390  for ease of mobility. In the embodiment illustrated, the assembly  300  features three firing blocks  10  that can fire a total of six (6) pyrotechnic cartridges  370  simultaneously. In the embodiment illustrated, the pyrotechnic cartridges  370  are LED test light cartridges which test operability during pre-mission checks and troubleshooting. The assembly  300  can be constructed of 100% aluminum. The heavy-gauge aluminum stabilizes the concussive effect of a six-round blast. The rugged design makes the device ideal for extended field training. The assembly  300  can be integrated with other pyrotechnic IED simulators to replicate simultaneous explosive conditions. 
         [0038]    A pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present disclosure can include one, two, three, four, five, or any number of firing blocks engaging a base either directly or indirectly. In an embodiment, a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present disclosure includes one firing block directly engaging a base. In an embodiment, a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present disclosure includes one firing block indirectly engaging a base via a platform having any desired height so as to “lift” the firing blocks a certain height above the base. In an embodiment, a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present disclosure includes three firing blocks directly engaging a base. In an embodiment, a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present disclosure includes three firing blocks indirectly engaging a base via a solid platform having any desired height so as to “lift” the firing blocks a certain height above the base. In an embodiment, a pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present disclosure includes three firing blocks indirectly engaging a base via columnar platforms having any desired height so as to “lift” the firing blocks a certain height above the base. 
         [0039]    A pyrotechnic IED simulator of the present disclosure can be used with a trigger box/power pack (for example see  1418  in  FIG. 8 ), which represents a device operable to provide power to the firing blocks, and may include a module for control the operation of the firing blocks. In an embodiment, the power pack comprises components operable to perform the operation of the firing blocks, and may comprise, for example, logic, an interface, memory, other components or combinations thereof. “Logic” may refer to software, hardware, other logic, or combinations thereof, which are able to provide information or instructions. Certain logic may manage the operation of a simulator, and may comprise, for example, a processor. “Processor” may refer to any suitable device operable to execute instructions and manipulate data to perform operations. “Interface” may refer to logic of a device operable to receive input for the device, send output from the device, and perform suitable processing of at least one of the output or input. “Memory” may refer to logic operable to store and facilitate retrieval of information, and may comprise Random Access Memory (RAM), Read Only Memory (ROM), a magnetic drive, a disk drive, a Compact Disc (CD) drive, a Digital Video Disk (DVD) drive, removable media storage, any other suitable data storage medium, or combinations thereof. 
         [0040]    The power pack may have multi-triggering user-controlled capabilities that can be switched on or off by a user at anytime during a training simulation (i.e., victim operated (VO)). In such an embodiment, all triggering methods are electronically isolated from one another. The power pack has the ability to initiate detonation in one of three ways: command/hard wired (CW) detonation, radio-controlled (RC) detonation, and victim-operated (VO) detonations, such as a pressure plate/switch, a trip wire, a passive infrared detector, that connect to the power pack via plug and play cable connections to isolated external ports. The power pack also has a jammer plug and shunt plug that can be connected to an interrupter cable, which can be connected to an interrupter box which will disable the power pack. Disabling of the power pack in such a way may be desirable for certain training exercises to simulate a jammer that may be trying to jam the entire electronics of the power pack. 
         [0041]    The radio-controlled detonation feature allows a user to enable/disable the victim-operated triggers, while individual control cards within the power pack provide the programming necessary to turn on/off input to the victim operated triggers and various other triggers. Any suitable trigger device operable to detect a trigger event from, for example, a vehicle or a person, and send a trigger signal in response to detecting the event can be used. The power pack has the ability to add on additional devices in a daisy chain method by use of a plug and play output port. The power pack has the ability to initiate via plug and play cable connections. The power pack includes various interfaces for connecting with the various multi-triggering user-controlled capabilities, including, but not limited to, ports which connect with a cable leading to a victim-operated trigger, and ports which connect with a cable leading to a command wire. In an embodiment, the command wire input port cannot be blocked. 
         [0042]    An apparatus for simulating an explosive device, in one exemplary embodiment, includes at least one firing block having a top portion including at least one receptacle designed to receive one or more types of pyrotechnic cartridges, a bottom portion embedded with at least one contact assembly in substantial alignment with a corresponding receptacle, and an electronic housing; and a base designed to support each of the firing blocks, wherein each of the firing blocks is equipped with quick release pins, which, when connected to additional components of the firing block, are designed to impart durability and sustainability over time to the firing block. The quick release pins and additional components of the firing block help to maintain intimate contact between the top portion and the bottom portion that is required to allow for passage of electricity between electrical contacts on the pyrotechnic cartridges and respective contact assemblies on the bottom portion, which in turn completes a circuit indicating that the apparatus is properly latched and allowing the circuitry to continue with an arming procedure. 
         [0043]    In an embodiment, a victim-operated external triggering device of the present invention can be housed in an artillery shell casing. In an embodiment, a victim-operated external triggering device of the present invention can be housed in a common container, such as a cooking-oil can, with a blast cavity. In an embodiment, a victim-operated external triggering device of the present invention can be housed in a metal can with a blast cavity. In an embodiment, a victim-operated external triggering device of the present invention can be housed in a jug with a blast cavity. In an embodiment, a victim-operated external triggering device of the present invention can be housed in a replica of an animal carcass with a blast cavity. In an embodiment, a victim-operated external triggering device of the present invention can be housed in a pressure cooker. Such an external triggering device is described hereinbelow. 
         [0044]      FIGS. 8-14  depict a pyrotechnic IED simulator training system. Elements illustrated in the firing block/base assembly  100  of  FIGS. 1-7 , which correspond, either identically or substantially, to the elements described above with respect to the embodiment of  FIGS. 8-14  have been designated by corresponding reference numerals increased by one thousand. Unless otherwise stated, the embodiments of  FIGS. 8-14  are constructed and assembled in the same basic manner as the embodiment of  FIGS. 1-7 . Elements of the embodiment of  FIGS. 8-14  that do not correspond to elements illustrated in  FIG. 1-7  are designated with reference numerals that begin with  1400 . 
         [0045]    Referring to  FIGS. 8 ,  9 ,  10 A and  10 B,  FIG. 8  is a schematic of a pyrotechnic IED training system  1400  that includes a pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410 , which includes a firing block/base assembly  1100  which is similar to the firing block/base assembly  100  discussed with respect to  FIGS. 1-4 . Reference numbers used for elements that are similar in construction to elements of firing block/base assembly  100  and/or serve similar functions are referenced by the reference numbers used in  FIGS. 1-7 , incremented by  1000 . In the exemplary embodiment of  FIGS. 8-9 , the firing block base assembly is housed in a casing  1412 . The pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  is interconnected to a victim-operated external decoy triggering device  1414 , discussed hereinbelow with respect to  FIGS. 10A-10B , which is housed in a casing  1416  (see  FIG. 8 ). The interconnection between the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  and the decoy triggering device  1414  is provided through a power pack  1418  (see  FIG. 8 ), which is discussed hereinbelow after the discussion of  FIGS. 11-14 , which discussion pertains to a pressure-armed trigger module (not shown) residing in the decoy triggering device  1414 . It is understood that, while the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  and the decoy triggering device  1414  of the pyrotechnic IED training system  1400  are housed in casings  1412 ,  1416  which are in the form of pressure cookers, the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  and/or the decoy triggering device  1414  may be housed in casings made from or emulating other items that may be encountered in the field, such as military ordinance (e.g., the artillery shell cases discussed with respect to  FIG. 5 ), everyday domestic items, vehicles, or even hidden in animal carcasses. 
         [0046]    Referring to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , the casing  1412  of the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  includes bottom and top portions  1420 ,  1422  which are shown separated from each other. The bottom portion  1420  has exterior and interior surfaces  1424 ,  1426  and a base  1428 . The base  1428  has a rectangular-shaped opening  1430 , and a groove  1432  formed in its exterior surface  1424  for purposes that are described hereinbelow. The bottom portion  1420  has a circular-shaped edge  1434  that is positioned opposite the base  1428 . A pair of latch-to-latch assemblies  1421  are positioned opposite each other on the exterior surface  1424  of the bottom portion  1420 , and a pair of lugs  1436  are positioned opposite each other on the interior surface  1426  of the bottom portion  1420 , such that they are proximate the pair of latch-to-latch assemblies  1421  when top portion  1422  is juxtaposed to bottom portion  1420  (see  FIG. 8 ). 
         [0047]    The top portion  1422  of the casing  1412  has exterior and interior surfaces  1438 ,  1440 . A lid  1442  with a rectangular-shaped opening  1444  is permanently attached to the top portion  1422  of the casing  1412 . A circular-shaped edge  1446  is located opposite the lid  1442 . A pair of latch keepers  1423  are positioned opposite each other on the exterior surface  1438  of the top portion  1422 , and a pair of lug-receptacles  1448  are positioned opposite each other on the interior surface  1440  of the top portion  1422 , proximate the pair of latch keepers  1423 . When the lugs  1436 , which are located on the interior surface  1440  of the bottom portion  1420  of the casing  1412 , are inserted in the lug-receptacles  1448 , the latch keepers  1423  are aligned with the latch-to-latch assemblies  1421  so that the latch keepers  1423  may cooperate with the latch-to-latch assemblies  1421  to connect the top portion  1422  to the bottom portion  1420  (as shown in  FIG. 8 ). In this position, the top portion  1422  is prevented from rotating relative to the bottom portion  1420 , and edge  1434  of the bottom portion  1420  and edge  1446  of the top portion  1422  are juxtaposed. 
         [0048]    In an embodiment, the casing  1412  may be fabricated from a conventional pressure cooker (not shown) which may be made of cast aluminum. This may be accomplished by cutting the conventional pressure cooker into two parts by using a saw to produce the bottom and top portions  1420 ,  1422  and the edges  1434 ,  1446 , respectively. The opening  1430  in the base  1428  of the bottom portion  1420  may be formed by the use of a saw, and the groove  1432  may be formed by the use of a grinder. A pair of handles  1450  (see  FIG. 8 ) that facilitate the removable attachment of the conventional lid to the conventional pressure cooker may be left attached to the exterior surface  1438  of the top portion  1422  to preserve the authentic look of the conventional pressure cooker. The lid  1442  may be adapted from the conventional pressure cooker lid (not shown) by removing the safety valves and the handling-knobs from the conventional lid, thereby leaving holes  1452  in the lid  1442 . 
         [0049]    Alternatively, the casing  1412  and the lid  1442  may be produced from stamped aluminum, or produced from stainless steel. The latch-to-latch assemblies  1421 , the latch keepers  1423 , the lugs  1436 , and the lug receptacles  1448  may be made of aluminum or steel. The lid  1442 , the latch-to-latch assemblies  1421 , the latch keepers  1423 , the lugs  1436 , and the lug receptacles  1448  my be permanently fastened to the casings  1412  by welds, such as weld W, or by other suitable fasteners such as glue. 
         [0050]    Continuing to refer to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , a firing block/base assembly  1100 , which is provided in the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  of the pyrotechnic IED training system  1400 , is shown mounted in the bottom portion  1420  of the casing  1412 . The firing block/base assembly  1100  is supported on support-posts  1454  which are attached to the base  1428  of the bottom portion  1420 . It is understood that the firing block/base assembly  1100  is constructed and operates in substantially the same manner as the firing block/base assembly  100  described hereinabove and depicted in  FIGS. 1-4 . As discussed, elements of the firing block/base assembly  1100  of  FIG. 9  which correspond to elements of the firing block/base assembly of  FIGS. 1-4  are identified by the reference numbers used in  FIGS. 1-4 , incremented by  1000 . More particularly, the assembly  1100  includes a firing block  1010  releasably engaging a base  1090 . The firing block  1010  includes a top portion  1020 , a bottom portion  1040 , and an electronic housing  1050  having ports  1085 . The electronic housing  1050  is attached to a platform  1055  which releasably engages a base  1090 . Latch keepers  1030  cooperate with latch-to-latch assemblies  1032  to connect the top portion  1020  to the bottom portion  1040  and the electronic housing  1050 . 
         [0051]    The top portion  1020  includes a magazine  1025  having two receptacles  1012 . The firing block  1010  can receive an explosive device, such as a pyrotechnic round or cartridge  1370 . As described herein above, each of the receptacles  1012  is capable of receiving at least two different types of a US Army type classified round or a non-type classified round that can direct a pyrotechnic explosion in a predetermined direction. The firing block/base assembly  1100  can be constructed of heavy-gauge aluminum to stabilize the concussive effects of the pyrotechnic explosions produced by the discharge of the pyrotechnic cartridge  1370  in the magazine  1025 . 
         [0052]    The firing block  1010  is designed to repeatedly fire pyrotechnic cartridges during a single and/or multiple training sessions. Even though the latch keepers  1030 /latch assemblies  1032  connect the top portion  1020  to the bottom portion  1040  and electronic housing  1050 , a detonation of the pyrotechnic cartridges can cause upwards pressure which can result in the top portion  1020  separating from the bottom portion  1040 , and thus breaking the electrical connection between the pyrotechnic cartridges and the contact assemblies (not visible) in the bottom portion  1040 , thereby rendering the firing block  1010  inoperable. To inhibit this from transpiring, as described hereinabove, the firing block  1010  is equipped with quick release pins (not visible) which are equipped with tether lanyards  1061 , which, when connected to additional components of the firing block  1010 , are designed to impart durability and sustainability over time to the firing block  1010 . In an embodiment, the quick release pins are detent pins with two balls, as described hereinabove and depicted in  FIG. 2A . 
         [0053]    A bracket  1456  that supports a terminal-block  1458  is mounted on the base  1428  of the bottom portion  1420 , proximate the opening  1430 . The terminal-block  1458  has a pair of terminal-posts  1460  that protrude upwardly from the terminal-block  1458 . A pair of ports (not visible) that protrude downwardly from the terminal-block  1458  are electrically connected to the terminal-posts  1460 . A cable  1462 , which is equipped with jacks  1464  on one end and ring-terminals  1466  on the opposite end, is provided in the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410 . The jacks  1464  are plugged into the ports  1085  of the electronic housing  1050 , and the ring terminals  1466  are screwed onto the terminal-posts  1460  of the terminal-block  1458 . A cable  1468 , which is equipped with jacks (not visible) on one end, and jacks  1470  (see  FIG. 8 ) on the opposite end, extends from the terminal-block  1458  to the power pack  1418 . More particularly, the jacks of the cable  1468  are plugged into and unplugged out of the ports of the terminal block  1458  through the opening  1430  of the base  1428 . The cable  1468  is routed through the groove  1432  of the base  1428  so that the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  rests evenly on the support surface (e.g., the ground). The cables  1462 ,  1468  connect a firing block  1010  of the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  with the power pack  1418 , thus establishing a pathway for communicating a detonation command from the power pack  1418  to the firing block  1010  of the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  in a manner that is described hereinbelow. 
         [0054]    The firing block/base assembly  1100 , the support-posts  1454 , and bracket  1456  may be assembled in the bottom portion  1420  in the follow manner: i) the top portion  1422  of the casing  1412  is separated from the bottom portion  1420  by disconnecting the latch-to-latch assemblies  1032  from the latch keepers  1030  and separating the edges  1434 ,  1446 ; ii) the bracket  1456  is fastened to the base  1428  of the bottom portion  1420  by screws (not shown) or other suitable fasteners such as welds; iii) the support-posts  1454  are fastened to the base  1428  of the bottom portion  1420  by screws (not visible), on one end, and to the base  1090  of the of the firing block/base assembly  1100  by bolts/washer/nut fasteners  1472  on the opposite end. It is understood that the size, shape and material used for constructing of the support-posts  1454  (e.g., solid metal) are selected to endure the shock waves produced by the discharge of pyrotechnic cartridges  1370  without fatigue or structural weakening over time with repeated use of the firing block  1010 . The length of the support-posts  1454  is established so that the top of the magazine  1025  of the firing block/base assembly  1100  is positioned flush with the top of the lid  1442 . In this orientation, only the tip of the explosive-end of the pyrotechnic cartridge  1370  is exposed (as illustrated in  FIG. 9 ) so that, when assembled, the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  appears deceptively similar to the appearance of a conventional pressure cooker. 
         [0055]    Referring to  FIGS. 8 ,  10 A and  10 B, the decoy triggering device  1414  includes a casing  1474  which is shaped in the form of a conventional pressure cooker. The casing  1474  has exterior and interior surfaces  1476 ,  1478 , and a flat base  1480 . The base  1480  has a centrally located hole H, a rectangular-shaped opening  1482  and a groove  1484  (see  FIG. 10B ) formed therein, for purposes that are described hereinbelow. The casing  1474  has a circular opening  1486  that is bounded by a lip  1488 . A pair of opposed hinged U-shaped hooks  1490  are pivotally fastened on the exterior surface  1476  of the casing  1474 . A lid  1492 , which is removably attachable to the lip  1488  of the casing  1474 , has a plurality of safety values  1494  and handling-knobs  1496  mounted thereon. A stirrup  1498 , having a centrally located screw  1500  with hooked-shaped ends  1502 , is used to retain the lid  1492  on the lip  1488  of the casing  1474 . More particularly, with the lid  1492  positioned on the lip  1488  of the circular opening  1486  of the casing  1474  and each of the hooked-shaped ends  1502  of the stirrup  1498  engaged with the hooks  1490  of the casing  1474  (as shown in  FIG. 8 ), the screw  1500  may be screwed down onto the lid  1492  in order to fasten the lid  1492  on the lip  1488 . The casing  1474 , the lid  1492 , and the stirrup  1498  may be fabricated from aluminum or other suitable material such as stainless steel. 
         [0056]    Continuing to refer to  FIGS. 8 ,  10 A and  10 B, a bracket  1504  that supports a terminal-block  1506  is mounted the base  1480  of the casing  1474 , proximate the opening  1482 . The terminal block  1506  has a pair of terminal-posts  1508  that protrude upwardly from the terminal-block  1506 . A pair of ports (not visible) protrude downwardly from the terminal-block  1506  and are electrically connected to the terminal-posts  1508 . A cable  1510 , which is equipped with jacks (not visible) on one end, and jacks  1512  (see  FIG. 8 ) on the opposite end, extends from the terminal-block  1506  to the power pack  1418 . More particularly, the jacks of the cable  1510  may be plugged into and unplugged out of the ports of the terminal block  1506  through the opening  1482  (not visible) of the base  1480 . The cable  1510  is routed through the groove  1484  of the base  1480  so that the decoy triggering device  1414  may rest evenly on the support surface (e.g., the ground). The cable  1510  connects the terminal-posts  1508  of the decoy triggering device  1414  with the power pack  1418 , thus establishing a pathway for communicating a detonation command from the decoy triggering device  1414  to the power pack  1418  in a manner that is described hereinbelow. 
         [0057]    Referring to  FIGS. 10  A,  10 B and  11 - 14 , a trigger module  1514  having a frame  1516  is mounted in the interior of the casing  1474  of the decoy triggering device  1414 . The trigger module  1514  has a lid-trigger mechanism  1518  which is located in the upper portion of the frame  1516  proximate the lid  1492 , and a base-trigger mechanism  1518 ′ which is located in the lower portion of the frame  1516  proximate the base  1480  of the casing  1474 . 
         [0058]    Referring now to  FIGS. 11-14 , the lid-trigger mechanism  1518  has a micro-switch  1520 , and a rod-shaped plunger  1522  that extends through a bore  1524  in the frame  1516  (also see  FIG. 10A ). An external actuator arm  1526  is pivotally mounted on the micro-switch  1520  and is biased in an extended position (see  FIG. 11 ) from which it may be moved to a depressed position (see  FIG. 12 ). A pair of terminals TA, TB are mounted on the exterior of micro-switch  1520 . As described in detail hereinbelow, when the actuator arm  1526  is depressed, the micro-switch  1520  closes the internal path between terminals TA, TB, and vice versa. The manner in which the plunger  1522  is linked to the actuator arm  1526  of the micro-switch  1520  is described hereinbelow. 
         [0059]    More particularly, the plunger  1522  is free to slide in and out of the bore  1524  (i.e., in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the bore  1524 ). The length of the plunger  1522  is sized so that the when the lid  1492  is screwed to the casing  1474 , the plunger  1522  is depressed into the frame  1516 , and when the lid  1492  is removed from the casing  1474 , the plunger  1522  protrudes out of the frame  1516  to its fullest extent, as described hereinbelow. The plunger  1522  has external and internal ends  1528 ,  1530  (also see  FIG. 10A ), with a pivot pin  1532  installed proximate the internal end  1530 . A collar  1534  that has a set screw  1536  is positioned on the portion of the plunger  1522  that extends exteriorly from the frame  1516 . The position of the collar  1534  may be adjusted by the applying the set screw  1536  at the desired location along the exterior portion of the plunger  1522 . A spring  1538  that is installed on the plunger  1522  is compressed between the collar  1534  and the frame  1516 . The spring  1538  creates a force that acts in the direction of the external end  1528  of the plunger  1522 , with a magnitude that is proportional to the distance between the collar  1534  and the frame  1516 . Therefore, the spring  1538  biases the plunger  1522  in the direction of the external end  1528  with a force that is based on the position of the collar  1534  on the plunger  1522  (i.e., the closer the collar  1522  is positioned towards the frame  1516 , the stronger is the biasing force, and vice versa). In this manner, the biasing force may be adjusted so that, for example, when the stirrup  1498  and screw  1500  are removed from the lid  1492 , the weight of the lid  1492  can more than offset the opposing biasing force created on the lid  1492  by the spring  1538 . This setting may be advantageous for a particular training scenario, in which the lid  1492  is freely resting on the casing  1474 , as described hereinafter. 
         [0060]    Continuing to refer to  FIGS. 11-14 , a pivot-post  1540  and a stop-post  1542  are shown mounted in the frame  1516 . A lever  1544  has a rounded-end  1546  and a cam  1548  formed on an end opposite the rounded-end  1546 . The lever  1544  has a hole  1550  in which the pivot-post  1540  pivotally anchors the lever  1544  in a seesaw manner. The lever  1544  is pivotally connected to the plunger  1522  by the pivot pin  1532  of the plunger  1522 . The lever  1544  is sized and shaped so that when the lid  1492  is removed from the casing  1474 , the spring  1538  biases the plunger  1522  in the direction of its external end  1528 , the rounded-end  1546  of the lever  1544  rests on the frame  1516 , and the cam  1548  of the lever  1544  depresses the actuator arm  1526  of the micro-switch  1520 . Having described the mechanical linkages of the lid-trigger mechanism  1518  hereinabove, the electrical circuitry of the lid-trigger mechanism  1518  is now described hereinbelow, including reference to the power pack  1418  described previously with respect to  FIG. 8 . 
         [0061]    Wire leads A and B are attached to terminals TA, TB of the micro-switch  1520 , at one end, and are spliced to wire leads AA′ and BB′ at splices SAA′ and SBB′ (see  FIGS. 11-14 ) at the opposite end. The wire leads A and B have electrically continuity with the terminal-posts  1508  of the terminal block  1506  (see  FIG. 10B ). It follows, therefore, that when the actuator arm  1526  is depressed, the micro-switch  1520  closes the internal the path between the leads A and B, which thereby provides a closed circuit across the terminal-posts  1508 . Since the cable  1510  connects the terminal-posts  1508  of the decoy triggering device  1414  with the power pack  1418 , when the lid  1492  is removed from the casing  1474 , the lid-trigger mechanism  1518  provides a closed circuit to the power pack  1418 , thus providing a detonation command to the power pack  1418 . In this condition, the lid-trigger mechanism  1518  is considered “triggered”. 
         [0062]    Referring to  FIGS. 10A ,  10 B and  11 , when the lid  1492  is fastened to the casing  1474 , the plunger  1522  is depressed such that the rounded-end  1546  of the lever  1544  rests on the stop-post  1542 , and the cam  1548  of the lever  1544  releases the actuator arm  1526  of the micro-switch  1520 . When the actuator arm  1526  is in its released position (i.e., it is not depressed) the micro-switch  1520  opens the internal path between the leads A and B, which thereby provides an open circuit to the terminal-posts  1508 , thus disabling a pathway for communicating a detonation command to the power pack  1418 . In this condition, the lid-trigger mechanism  1518  is considered “armed”. 
         [0063]    Since the lid-trigger mechanism  1518  and the base-trigger mechanism  1518 ′ are similarly sized and shaped, elements of the lid-trigger mechanism  1518  that are similar to elements of the base-trigger mechanism  1518 ′ are referred to herein by the reference numerals of the elements similar to those of the lid-trigger mechanism  1518  primed (e.g., “ 1518 ′”, “ 1520 ′”, “ 1530 ′”, etc.). 
         [0064]    Accordingly, again referring to  FIGS. 11-14 , the base-trigger mechanism  1518 ′ has a micro-switch  1520 ′, and a rod-shaped plunger  1522 ′ that extends through a bore  1524 ′ in the frame  1516  (also see  FIG. 10A ). An external actuator arm  1526 ′ is pivotally mounted on the micro-switch  1520 ′ and is biased in an extended position (see  FIG. 11 ) from which it may be moved to a depressed position (see  FIG. 13 ). A pair of terminals TA′, TB′ are mounted on the exterior of micro-switch  1520 ′. When the actuator arm  1526 ′ is depressed, the micro-switch  1520 ′ closes the internal path between terminals TA′, TB′, and vice versa. The manner in which the plunger  1522 ′ is linked to the actuator arm  1526 ′ of the micro-switch  1520 ′ is described hereinbelow. 
         [0065]    When the casing  1474  of the decoy triggering device  1414  is resting on the flat support surface, the plunger  1522 ′ is depressed in the frame  1516 . The plunger  1522 ′ has external and internal end  1528 ′,  1530 ′ (also see  FIG. 10A ), with a pivot pin  1532 ′ installed proximate the internal end  1530 ′. The external end  1528 ′ may extend through hole H in the abase  1480  of the bottom  1474  of the decoy device  1414 . A collar  1534 ′ that has a set screw  1536 ′ is positioned on the portion of the plunger  1522 ′ that extends exteriorly from the frame  1516 . The position of the collar  1534 ′ may be adjusted by the applying the set screw  1536 ′ at the desired location along the exterior portion of the plunger  1522 ′. A spring  1538 ′ which is installed on the plunger  1522 ′ is compressed between the collar  1534 ′ and the frame  1516 . The spring  1538 ′ creates a force that acts in the direction of the external end  1528 ′ of the plunger  1522 ′. Therefore, the spring  1538 ′ biases the plunger  1522 ′ in the direction of the external end  1528 ′ with a force that is based on the position of the collar  1534 ′ on the plunger  1522 ′. 
         [0066]    Continuing to refer to  FIGS. 11-14 , a pivot-post  1540 ′ and a stop-post  1542 ′ are shown mounted in the frame  1516 . A lever  1544 ′ has a rounded-end  1546 ′ and a cam  1548 ′ formed on an end opposite the rounded-end  1546 ′. The lever  1544 ′ has a hole  1550 ′ in which the pivot-post  1540 ′ pivotally anchors the lever  1544 ′ in a seesaw manner. The lever  1544 ′ is pivotally connected to the plunger  1522 ′ by the pivot pin  1532 ′. The lever  1544 ′ is sized and shaped so that when the casing  1474  of the decoy triggering device  1414  device is raised up from the support surface, i) the spring  1538 ′ biases the plunger  1522 ′ in the direction of its external end  1528 ′ and the plunger  1522 ′ extends out of the frame  1516  to its fullest extent, and protrudes through the hole H of the base  1480 , ii) the rounded-end  1546 ′ of the lever  1544 ′ rests on the frame  1516 , and iii) the cam  1548 ′ of the lever  1544 ′ depresses the actuator arm  1526 ′ of the micro-switch  1520 ′. Having described the mechanical linkages of the base-trigger mechanism  1518 ′ hereinabove, the electrical circuitry of the base-trigger mechanism  1518 ′ is now described hereinbelow, including reference to the power pack  1418  described previously with respect to  FIG. 8 . 
         [0067]    Continuing to refer to  FIGS. 11-14 , a wire lead A′ that is connected to the terminal TA′ of the micro-switch  1520 ′ is spliced to the wire lead A at a splice SAA′ (for example see  FIGS. 11-14 ) to form a wire lead AA′. The wire lead AA′ is connected to the terminal-post  1508  of the terminal block  1506  (see  FIG. 10B ). A wire lead B′ that is connected to the terminal TB′ of the micro-switch  1520 ′ is spliced to the wire lead B at a splice SBB′ to form a wire lead BB′. The wire lead BB″ is connected to the terminal-post  1508  of the terminal block  1506  (e.g., see  FIG. 10B ). When the actuator arm  1526 ′ is depressed, the micro-switch  1520 ′ closes the internal the path between the leads A′ and B′, which thereby provides a closed circuit across the terminal-posts  1508 . Since the cable  1510  connects the terminal-posts  1508  of the decoy triggering device  1414  with the power pack  1418 , when the casing  1474  of the decoy triggering device  1414  is raised from the support surface, the base-trigger mechanism  1518 ′ provides a closed circuit to the power pack  1418 , thus providing a detonation command to the power pack  1418 . In this condition, the base-trigger mechanism  1518 ′ is considered “triggered”. 
         [0068]    Referring to  FIGS. 10A ,  10 B and  11 , when the base  1480  of the casing  1474  is resting on a flat support surface, the plunger  1522 ′ is depressed such that the rounded-end  1546 ′ of the lever  1544 ′ rests on the stop-post  1542 ′, and the cam  1548 ′ of the lever  1544 ′ releases the actuator arm  1526 ′ of the micro-switch  1520 ′. When the actuator arm  1526 ′ is in its released position (i.e., it is not depressed) the micro-switch  1520 ′ opens the internal path between the leads A′ and B′, which thereby provides an open circuit to the terminal-posts  1508 , thus disabling a pathway for communicating a detonation command to the power pack  1418 . In this condition, the base-trigger mechanism  1518 ′ is considered “armed”. 
         [0069]    The trigger module  1514  may be mounted to the base  1480  of the casing  1474  with legs  1552 . The legs  1552  are fastened to the base  1480  and the frame  1516  by fastening means such as screws (not shown). The micro-switches  1520 ,  1520 ′ may be of conventional types known in the art. Elements of the lid-triggering mechanism  1518  and the base-triggering mechanism  1518 ; other than the spring  1538 ,  1538 ′, may be fabricated from plastic material and formed by injection molding or other conventional method. Alternatively, these element may be fabricated out of other suitable material such as metal. 
         [0070]    As described hereinabove, the power pack  1418  may have multi-triggering user-controlled capabilities that can be switched on or off at anytime during a training simulation. The power pack  1418  has the ability to initiate detonation in one of three ways: command/hard wired (CW) detonation, radio-controlled (RC) detonation, and victim-operated (VO) detonations. The power pack may also have a jammer plug and shunt plug that can be connected to an interrupter cable, which can be connected to an interrupter box which will disable the power pack. Disabling of the power pack in such a way may be desirable for certain training exercises to simulate a jammer that may be trying to jam the entire electronics of the power pack. 
         [0071]    The power pack  1418  equipped for victim-operated (VO) detonations is depicted and described hereinbelow for the purpose of describing the operation of the pyrotechnic IED training system  1400 . It is understood, nonetheless, that the power pack  1418  may be equipped with any and all of the multi-triggering controlled capabilities. 
         [0072]    Referring to now to  FIG. 8 , in an embodiment, the power pack  1418  has a case  1554  which houses a power supply (not shown) such as a 12-volt motorcycle battery. The case  1554  may be fabricated out of any suitable material such as plastic, metal, and/or wood. The case  1554  has an activation-switch  1556  that has first and second positions. In the first or “ON” position, the power supply is connected to the circuit provided by cable  1510  which in turn is connected to the circuit provided by cable  1468 . Since the circuit provided by cable  1510  is connected to the circuit provided by cable  1468  in the “ON” position, any “triggered” condition of the decoy triggering device  1414  will initiate a detonation of the pyrotechnic cartridge  1370 . In the second or “OFF” position, the power supply is not connected to the circuit provided by cable  1510 , and the circuit provided by cable  1510  is not connected to the circuit provided by cable  1468 . It is understood that, with appropriate circuitry and cabling modifications to the decoy triggering device  1414  (not described herein), the activation-switch  1556  can alternately be a three 3-way switch so that: i) either the lid-trigger mechanism  1518  or the base-trigger mechanism  1518 ′ can be active, or ii) both the lid-trigger mechanism  1518  and the base-trigger mechanism  1518 ′ can be active, or iii) neither the lid-trigger mechanism  1518  nor the base-trigger mechanism  1518 ′ can be active. The case  1554  also has a safety-switch  1558  that has a first position that disconnects the power supply from the power pack  1418 , and a second position that connects the power supply to the power pack  1418 . 
       Operation of the Pyrotechnic IED Training System 
       [0073]    In operation, the pyrotechnic IED training system  1400  is setup, and the training session is conducted, with safety precautions employed because close proximity to the discharge of the pyrotechnic cartridge  1370  can result in injury. Therefore, safety steps are employed to prevent an unintended or accidental discharge of the pyrotechnic cartridge  1370 . In this regard, it is understood that the use of term “user” herein applies to one or more people or personnel (e.g., military or police personnel) who utilize the IED pyrotechnic training system  1400  to receive training on identifying IEDs and homemade explosives and reacting to their effects in real-time simulations, and the use of the term “operator” herein applies to one or more people or personnel who operate the pyrotechnic IED training system  1400  to enable the users to effectively receive training on identifying IEDs and homemade explosives and reacting to their effects in real-time simulations. 
       Setting Up the Pyrotechnic IED Training System 
       [0074]    The following steps may be conducted by an operator trained in safely operating the pyrotechnic IED training system  1400 . For instance, in setting up the pyrotechnic IED training system  1400 , the operator may turn the safety switch  1558  of the power pack  1418  to the “OFF” position, and may also disconnect the jacks  1470  of the cable  1468  from the power pack  1418 , to prevent an accidental discharge of the pyrotechnic cartridges  1370 , during the loading and unloading of the pyrotechnic cartridges  1370  into an and out of the magazine  1025  of the firing block  1010 . 
         [0075]    The victim operated decoy triggering device  1414  may be positioned in a room of a building, and the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  may be placed outside the training building in a secure area (i.e., for safety reasons). The power pack  1418  may be placed in an area that is under the control of the operator. 
         [0076]    The after safety measures (e.g. such as those described above) are employed, the following steps may be performed by the operator: (i) the top portion  1422  is removed from the bottom portion  1420  of the casing  1412 ; (ii), the top portion  1020  is separated from the bottom portion  1040  of the firing block  1010  by separating the latch-to-latch assemblies  1032  from the latch keepers  1030  and by removing (i.e., withdrawing) the quick release detent pins with two balls (i.e., as described hereinabove and depicted in  FIG. 2A ); and (iii) the cartridges  1370  are loaded in the magazine  1025  of the firing block  1010 . Once the cartridges  1370  are loaded in the magazine  1025  of the firing block  1010 : (iv) the top portion  1422  is positioned on the bottom portion  1420  of the casing  1412 , (v) the top portion  1020  is joined to the bottom portion  1040  of the firing block  1010  by latching the latch-to-latch assemblies  1032  to the latch keepers  1030  and inserting the detent pins, (vi) the jacks  1470  of the cable  1468  are connected to the power pack  1418 , and (vii) the safety switch  1558  of the power pack  1418  is turned to the “ON” position. At this point, the pyrotechnic IED training system  1400  is ready to conduct training scenarios, as described below. 
         [0000]    Conducting Training Scenarios with the Pyrotechnic IED Training System 
         [0077]    In an embodiment, the trainee (i.e., the victim) may handle the decoy triggering device  1414 , thereby inadvertently triggering the discharge of the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410 . For instance, in the event that the user suspects that the triggering device  1414  should not be lifted, he/she may nonetheless kick the decoy triggering device  1414  and inadvertently activate the discharge the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  by disturbing the base-trigger mechanism  1518 ′. In the event that the user suspects that the decoy triggering device  1414  should not be touched at all, the user will take steps to avoid touching the decoy triggering device  1414  himself/herself, but may send in a robot or explosive device expert which might disturb the decoy triggering device  1414 . Whoever/whatever interrogates the decoy triggering device  1414  may inadvertently activate the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410 . Through these and many other possible training scenarios, the pyrotechnic IED training system  1400  safely provides the trainee with practical education on the consequences of poor situational awareness of the risks and dangers that are present in the real world hostile environments in which the user may operate. 
         [0078]    It should be appreciated that the present invention provides numerous advantages. For instance, the decoy triggering device  1414  may be disguised as an article or implement which is native to the environment in which the user may operate. 
         [0079]    In addition, the routing of the cable  1468  through the groove  1432  of the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  readily conceals the cable  1468  for training purposes because the base  1428  of the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  rests flush with the support for the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  (e.g., the ground) and the external portion of the cable  1468  may be covered with soil, leaves, etc.). Furthermore, the opening  1430  of the base  1428  and the orientation of the downwardly facing ports of the terminal-block  1458  enable the user to conveniently connect/disconnect the jacks of the cable  1468  into and out of the terminal-block  1458 . This arrangement facilitates the disconnection of the cable  1468  from the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410 , as one of a number of safety procedures, to prevent an accidental discharge of the pyrotechnic cartridges  1370  during the loading and unloading of the pyrotechnic cartridges  1370  into an and out of the magazine  1025  of the firing block  1010 . The same features pertain to the routing of the cable  1510  through the groove  1484  of the decoy device  1414  and the connection/disconnection of the cable  1510  from the terminal block  1506  of the decoy device  1414 . 
         [0080]    It should be noted that the present invention can have numerous modifications and variations. For instance, while the decoy triggering device  1414  and/or the pyrotechnic IED simulator  1410  of the present invention can be housed in a pressure cooker, in an embodiment, they may alternatively be housed in the casing of other items such as a cooking-oil can, a metal can, a jug, an animal carcass, an artillery shell, or other item that may be native to the environment in which the user may operate. 
         [0081]    It should be understood that the embodiments described herein are merely exemplary and that a person skilled in the art may make many variations and modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For instance, all such variations and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.