Abstract:
An apparatus and system permitting simulated firing from any firearm including a bolt and/or rotating bolt as well as rifles, machine guns, sniper rifles and the like. In particular, the present invention relates to light emitting munitions, being used as part of a system for registering “hits” during dry-fire exercises and gaming with any hand-held firearm, without any change to either the feel, or the external dimensions of the firearms.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present invention relates to an apparatus and system permitting simulated firing from any firearm including a bolt and/or rotating bolt as well as rifles, Machine guns, Sniper rifles and the like. In particular, the present invention relates to a light-emitting ammunition to be used as part of a system for registering “hits” during dry-fire exercises and gaming with any hand-held firearm, without any change to either the feel, or the external dimensions of the gun. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    There has long existed the need for an apparatus and system whereby a user could train with a firearm and any firearm including a bolt and/or rotating bolt as well as rifles, Machine guns, Sniper rifles and the like, without placing the user or others at risk of an accidental discharge of the firearm. This safety imperative coincides with an added desire to limit the wear and tear on a firearm brought about by extensive firing during training. This has proven to be especially relevant to those in the law-enforcement field or military personnel requiring a high degree of firearm practice. 
         [0003]    With firearm including a bolt and/or rotating bolt as well as rifles, Machine guns, Sniper rifles and the like it is also imperative that any installation or de-installation (removal) shall be readily performed by any user without having recourse for the services of an armorer or gunsmith (also known as “drop in” feature). 
         [0004]    The traditional means of training with a firearm including a bolt and/or rotating bolt as well as rifles, Machine guns, Sniper rifles and the like, whereby a user at a shooting range fires live ammunition at a target, has proven to have a number of significant drawbacks. The more prevalent of these drawbacks include the above-mentioned risk of accidental discharge of the user&#39;s or others&#39; firearms, the associated dangers of being present near live fire training, the increasing wear and tear on a firearm as it is used in training, and the general inconvenience of the shooting range paradigm. Furthermore, with firearms including a bolt and/or rotating bolt as well as rifles, Machine guns, Sniper rifles and the like there is an added cost of ammunition which can be quite significant indeed. Furthermore, range “time” and space are a scarce commodity in all training facilities. Thus, training capabilities which do not require the use of a range are an added benefit to trainees and users. As such, there exists the need for an alternative to traditional firearm training that will mitigate the above disadvantages while maintaining the overall benefit of live fire training as well as provide enhanced “dry fire” facilities and more efficient “dry fire” systems and methods. 
         [0005]    Many “dry-fire” inventions and methods now exist to ensure that users may train with their respective firearms without the safety risks and accompanying deterioration inherent in traditional firearm training. The present invention introduces a new apparatus and system for achieving a high degree of safety and accuracy during training while significantly reducing the wear and tear on a firearm during same. 
         [0006]    Various prior art apparatuses and methods have been described and reviewed in earlier U.S. Pat. No. 5,488,795, US02/0057719, U.S. Pat. No. 5,909,951, and European Patent No. EP0467090, which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. 
         [0007]    U.S. Pat. No. 5,488,795 (hereinafter: “Sweat”) describes the Multi-caliber Laser Firing Cartridge, comprised of a laser projector with a mechanical firing pin switch. The laser projector utilizes a concentric shape recalling that of a bullet. Sweat&#39;s innovation lies in the adjustable settings that allows a single cartridge to be used in different caliber weapons. Sweat also teaches a switch unit that allows a mechanical pulse delay using a specific described mechanism. However, the disclosed invention still has many disadvantages. Sweat does not teach rim modification that prevents ejection of the cartridge, nor does Sweat describe the use of modulation to carry information. Furthermore, Sweat does not describe a safety interlock. Sweat&#39;s module can be activated by a single pressure switch, leading to a laser radiation in a direction perhaps unintended by the user. Furthermore, a live round could be entered in error into the chamber of the firearm leading to potentially fatal consequences. 
         [0008]    U.S. Patent No. US02/0057719 (hereinafter: “Shechter”) describes an improved system over Sweat&#39;s innovation in that Shechter describes a rim design that prevents ejection of the bullet. However, Shecter teaches away from a firing pin switch, instead describing a mechanical wave sensor and/or an acoustic sensor. This is a disadvantage in that Shecter&#39;s mechanical wave sensor and/or acoustic sensor is prone to misfiring when subjected to extraneous vibration or noise, which often occur during simulation training. Here as well, a live round could be entered in error into the chamber of the firearm leading to potentially fatal consequences. 
         [0009]    European Patent No. 0467090 (hereinafter: “Budmiger”), which was not submitted for U.S. patent prosecution, teaches a switch mechanism that is comprised of a piezoelectric transducer and an independent power supply. However, Budmiger only claims as novelty a combination of a piezoelectric transducer and a battery as a firing pin impact switch and such novelty would appear to be limited to the specific combination described, leaving other innovations available to the public. 
         [0010]    U.S. Pat. No. 5,909,951 (hereinafter: “Johnsen”) teaches the use of a multi-channel laser signal. The signal includes an alignment carrier that allows a training system to generate aiming feedback as well as a pulse that simulates a gunshot when an acoustic sensor detects a trigger release. Johnsen does not utilize a firing pin, nor is there a method dealing with an ejection mechanism. Johnsen&#39;s implementation is not limited to a handgun but can be applied to a rifle and a shotgun as well. There exists, however, several disadvantages to Johnsen&#39;s apparatus. Despite teaching visible light, Johnsen does not claim the use of visible light. Rather, Johnsen&#39;s claims specifically refer to non-visible light, modulated to carry information about the state of the weapon (firing or aiming). Johnsen also discloses specific algorithms and circuitry required to properly simulate the travel delay of a projectile for more accurate simulations, such specific algorithms and circuitry not being relevant for a handgun at a range of 25 yards or less. Johnsen&#39;s system does not use the case of the embodiment to complete an electrical circuit, relying instead on internal circuitry. Finally, the shape of the module in Johnsen is not concentric and does not resemble a true bullet. 
         [0011]    Thus, such inventions as those described above generally suffer from at least one of several disadvantages, including, inter alia, the lack of a safety interlock, the use of an accident prone mechanical wave/acoustic sensor, the lack of a preventative mechanism for preventing loading a live round into the chamber. Therefore, the need exists to create a module and system whereby the foregoing disadvantages are adequately remedied to a provide safe and durable “dry-fire” alternative. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0012]    The present invention is a training aid and system, which training aid is capable of being manufactured in different sizes for use with any pre-existing firearm. The training aid is designed to replace a standard a bolt and/or rotating bolt and/or bolt carrier for use during firearm training exercises and preferably bears a strong visual and physical resemblance to the standard a bolt and/or rotating bolt and/or bolt carrier being replaced. The training aid of the present invention is comprised of no combustible material and need not be capable of any physical projection. Rather, the training aid utilizes an illumination source to emit a visible light and/or IR illumination collinear with the barrel of the firearm. 
         [0013]    As is the case with any firearm, a user must first “fire” the firearm loaded with the present invention in order initialize the training aid. “Cocking” a weapon prior to firing is known as the process of displacing the hammer and/or firing pin of a firearm to a rearward position, thereby preparing the trigger of the weapon for firing. Cocking is generally accomplished in one of several ways, depending on the make and model of a given firearm. In many handgun models a user may cock the weapon by manually thumbing back the hammer of the firearm. In other models, a “slide”, a bolt, a rotating bolt or a bolt carrier is displaced to aft of the firearm. In still other models, such as in double action handguns, a rearward displacement of the trigger results in a complimentary rearward displacement of the hammer. Release of the hammer occurs when the trigger of the firearm is depressed with the requisite amount of pressure. Once the firearm has been appropriately cocked, the firearm thereby becomes ready to be discharged by a rearward displacement of the firearm&#39;s trigger. 
         [0014]    Other weapon systems include a “hammerless” wherein pulling the trigger results in a rearward displacement of the firearm&#39;s firing pin and/or release of a “cocked” firing pin. By way of example only, a variety of other “cocking” mechanisms including, but not limited to, “squeeze cockers” and the like. 
         [0015]    When the user “pulls the trigger” of the firearm, it causes a complimentary displacement of the hammer and/or firing pin to a forward position, which hammer and/or firing pin bring about a strike of the firing pin on the firing cap/primer of the chambered cartridge. With a standard cartridge, this causes a chemical reaction whereby the primer is burned, the extreme heat from which burning leads to the bullet being launched from the cartridge at an extremely fast speed. When the training aid is chambered instead of a standard a bolt, a rotating bolt or a bolt carrier, the firing pin and/or hammer will impact an actuator located on the rear of the training aid, thereby completing an electrical circuit. Completion of the electrical circuit brings about a release of illumination from the illuminator in the training aid. The illumination then passes through a collimator for readily focusing the illumination. The focused illumination is emitted from the barrel of the firearm and appears for a fixed duration at a point collinear with the firearm&#39;s barrel. 
         [0016]    The foregoing objective, feature, functions and advantages of the present invention can be more easily understood upon a thoughtful deliberation of the following detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
         [0017]    According to the present invention there is provided a training aid apparatus including: (a) a power source, an illuminator electrically attached to the power source, and (c) an actuator electrically attached to the illuminator for readily controlling illumination of the illuminator. 
         [0018]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the training aid has a concentric shape recalling that of a bolt, a rotating bolt or a bolt carrier. 
         [0019]    According to yet further embodiments of the present invention the illuminator is a light emitting diode. 
         [0020]    According to still further embodiments of the present invention the illuminator is a light bulb. 
         [0021]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the illuminator is a laser. 
         [0022]    According to still further embodiments of the present invention the illuminator is an “eye safe” laser. 
         [0023]    According to yet further embodiments of the present invention the actuator further includes a pressure sensitive switch. 
         [0024]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the pressure sensitive switch is constructed of electrically conductive material. 
         [0025]    According to yet further embodiments of the present invention the pressure sensitive switch simulates a firearm primer. 
         [0026]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the actuator includes an energy absorbing material. 
         [0027]    According to still further embodiments of the present invention the training aid apparatus further includes a collimator for focusing and/or collimating illumination passing through the collimator. 
         [0028]    According to yet further embodiments of the present invention the collimator collimates illumination passing through the collimator into an area of illumination is substantially between 0.01 and 0.1 centimeters in diameter when illuminating at 9 yards. 
         [0029]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the collimator collimates illumination passing through the collimator into an area of illumination is substantially between 0.1 and 0.6 centimeters in diameter when illuminating at 9 yards. 
         [0030]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the power source includes a capacitor for limiting illumination duration. 
         [0031]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the power source includes a capacitor for limiting the number of illuminations thereby readily simulating the magazine capacity of the specific weapon. 
         [0032]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the training aid apparatus further includes a time chip for controlling the time of illumination of the illuminator and/or the number of illuminations thereby readily simulating the magazine capacity of the specific weapon. 
         [0033]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the time chip facilitates illumination of the illuminator for any time between 0.01 seconds and 1.0 seconds. 
         [0034]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the time chip facilitates “eye safe” illumination of the illuminator. 
         [0035]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the time chip facilitates illumination of the illuminator for substantially 0.25 seconds. 
         [0036]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the time chip facilitates illumination of the illuminator for any time between 0.5 seconds and 2.0 seconds 
         [0037]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the illuminator is modulated between 10-100 KHz. 
         [0038]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the illuminator is modulated at substantially 40 KHz. 
         [0039]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the illuminator illuminates at any wavelength. 
         [0040]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the illuminator illuminates substantially at a wavelength producing visible color selected from the group consisting of: red illumination, green illumination, blue illumination and/or IR illumination. 
         [0041]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the training aid apparatus further includes a transmitter for transmitting a signal. 
         [0042]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the signal is compatible with any weapon simulation system. 
         [0043]    According to a further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a training aid system including: (a) a firearm including a barrel, (b) a training aid apparatus replacing a firing mechanism selected from the group consisting of: a bolt, a rotating bolt or a bolt carrier, situated in the barrel including: (i) a power source, (ii) an illuminator electrically attached to the power source, and (iii) an actuator electrically attached to the illuminator for readily controlling illumination of the illuminator, and (c) an audio apparatus responsive to the training aid apparatus. 
         [0044]    According to further embodiments of the system according to the present invention the training aid apparatus includes a wireless transmitter and the audio apparatus includes a receiver. 
         [0045]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the firearm includes a magazine with an identification chip and the audio apparatus includes a receiver. 
         [0046]    According to still further embodiments of the present invention the training aid apparatus has a concentric shape recalling that of a bolt, a rotating bolt or a bolt carrier. 
         [0047]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the training aid apparatus includes a pneumatic recoil simulator. 
         [0048]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the magazine includes a weighted striker for simulating subjective and objective recoil. 
         [0049]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the magazine further includes a displacer for readily displacing the weighted striker against a striking surface. 
         [0050]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the displacer is responsive to an action selected from the group consisting of: the training aid apparatus being activated, the actuator being activated, a sound from a firing pin, a vibration from the firing pin and the firing pin striking the actuator. 
         [0051]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the audio apparatus further includes a speaker. 
         [0052]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the audio apparatus further includes a speaker for simulating a sound selected from the group consisting of: a specific firearm being fired, voicing instructions by a human instructor and voicing imbedded instructions in accordance to a training scenario. 
         [0053]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the audio apparatus includes a set of headphones for simulating a sound selected from the group consisting of: a specific firearm being fired, voicing instructions by a human instructor and voicing imbedded instructions in accordance to a training scenario. 
         [0054]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the audio apparatus further includes a processing unit. 
         [0055]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the processing unit is a computer. 
         [0056]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the computer is interfaced to a signal from the training aid apparatus. 
         [0057]    According to further embodiments of the present invention the signal received by the computers is fully interfaced with any on-line or web-based software running on the computer. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0058]      FIG. 1  is an exploded view of a replacement bolt carrier and/or bolt of a first embodiment of the training aid apparatus in a firearm; and 
           [0059]      FIG. 2  is an exploded view of an M16/AR15/M4 weapon system including a schematic view of the training aid system according to the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0060]    Turning now to the drawings,  FIG. 1  shows an embodiment of a training aid  10 . Training aid  10  is preferably comprised of an illuminator  12 , a power source  14 , and an actuator  16 . 
         [0061]    Training aid  10  is preferably used while situated inside of, and in conjunction with, a firearm  18 , wherein firearm  18  is preferably comprised of a trigger  20 , a hammer  22 , a firing pin  24 , and a barrel  26 . Barrel  26  is preferably comprised of a material capable of conducting an electrical current. 
         [0062]    Preferably, firearm  18  is one selected from the group consisting of any firearm including a bolt and/or rotating bolt  28 , a bolt carrier  30  as well as rifles, Machine guns, Sniper rifles, a pistol, a revolver, a shotgun, a rifle and the like. 
         [0063]    Preferably, training aid  10  has a concentric shape recalling that of a bolt and/or rotating bolt  28  and/or a bolt carrier  30 . 
         [0064]    Preferably, illuminator  12  is a light emitting diode (“LED”) for readily emitting a visible light and/or IR illumination. 
         [0065]    Alternatively, illuminator  12  is an LED of sufficient power to illuminate proximal and distal targets with visible and/or invisible illumination. 
         [0066]    Preferably, illuminator  12  is an LED has a capacity of at between 0.1-1 watts. 
         [0067]    Preferably, illuminator  12  is an LED has a capacity of at between 0.1-1 watts. 
         [0068]    Preferably, illuminator  12  is an LED has a capacity of at least 1 watts. 
         [0069]    Alternatively, illuminator  12  is a bulb, which bulb is constructed of such desired shape and size so as to fit within the physical contours of training aid  10 . 
         [0070]    More preferably, illuminator  12  is a laser diode for readily emitting coherent electro-magnetic radiation. 
         [0071]    Preferably, power source  14  is electrically connected to illuminator  12 . Preferably, power source  14  is situated in adjacency to illuminator  12  for readily powering illuminator  12 . Optionally, illuminator  12  is powered by a battery  32 . 
         [0072]    Preferably, battery  32  is a lithium battery for readily enhancing length of use. More preferably, battery  32  is a battery commonly used with known electro-optic products known in the art. 
         [0073]    Especially preferred, battery  32  is a 3 v lithium battery akin of CR123 batteries known in the art. 
         [0074]    Alternatively, actuator  16  is constructed of a crystalline. Optionally, actuator  16  is constructed of at least one crystalline formation, such that application of mechanical stress and/or pressure on actuator  16  generates sufficient electric current to power illuminator  12 . 
         [0075]    Preferably, power source  14  generates electric current by application of stress and/or mechanical pressure to a substance thus bringing about electric polarization in the substance. 
         [0076]    Preferably, actuator  16  includes a pressure sensitive switch  34  constructed of such material so as to be able to conduct an electrical current. 
         [0077]    Preferably, pressure sensitive switch  34  simulates a firearm primer. Preferably, actuator  16  is constructed of such material so as to substantially lessen impact of firing pin  24  when actuator  16  is struck by firing pin  24 . 
         [0078]    Optionally an abbreviated firing pin  24  can be used thereby facilitating larger overall length (OAL) of the components in bolt carrier  30 . 
         [0079]    Preferably, actuator  16  and/or pressure sensitive switch  34  includes an energy absorbing material such that energy from firing pin  24  striking pressure sensitive switch  34  is dampened. 
         [0080]    Preferably, actuator  16  and/or pressure sensitive switch  34  are constructed in way that energy from firing pin  24  striking pressure sensitive switch  34  is dampened. 
         [0081]    Preferably, actuator  16  is electrically connected to, and situated near, power source  14  so as to be capable of conducting an electrical current from power source  14 . Actuator  16  is further preferably electrically connected to, and situated near, batteries  32  so as to be capable of conducting an electrical current from batteries  32 . 
         [0082]    Preferably, training aid  10  includes a capacitor  36  attached to, or integrally formed with, power source  14 . 
         [0083]    Preferably, capacitor  36  is geared toward providing a multiplicity of time settings wherein capacitor can be preset to release an electrical charge sufficient for a single illumination of illuminator  12 . 
         [0084]    Optionally capacitor  36  replaces and/or augments the use of batteries  32  in training aid  10 . 
         [0085]    Preferably, capacitor  36  is geared toward providing the ability to create a simulated jam in the firearm, such that the user shall be required to perform a predetermined manipulation of the firearm prior to capacitor  36  reengaging and facilitating the continuation of the string of fire. 
         [0086]    By way of example only, the “jam” may require the removal and insertion of the magazine in order to clear the “jammed” weapon and prior to capacitor  36  reengaging and facilitating the continuation of the string of fire. Alternatively, either randomly, or once in, for example, 90 shots fired, or the fourth shot fired the firearm is set to simulate a “jam”, thereby forcing the user to “clear” the jammed condition of the firearm. 
         [0087]    Optionally, a time chip  38  is electrically to, or integrally formed with, power source  14 . 
         [0088]    Preferably, time chip  38  can be preset to readily facilitate illumination of illuminator  12  for any time between 0.01 seconds and 1.0 seconds. 
         [0089]    Preferably, time chip  38  can be preset to readily facilitate illumination of illuminator  12  for any time between 0.05 seconds and 0.30 seconds. 
         [0090]    Preferably, time chip  38  can be preset to readily facilitate illumination of illuminator  12  for substantially 0.25 seconds. 
         [0091]    Preferably, time chip  38  can be preset to readily facilitate illumination of illuminator  12  for any time between 0.5 seconds and 2.0 seconds, such that any displacement of firearm  18  during or after illumination initiation is readily visible to a user either with the naked eye or with the assistance of suitable apparatus as in the case of an IR illumination. 
         [0092]    Preferably, training aid  10  includes a collimator  40  attached to, or integrally formed, with illuminator  12 . 
         [0093]    Preferably, collimator  40  is situated in adjacency to illuminator  12  for readily focusing light and/or electromagnetic radiation passing through collimator  40 . 
         [0094]    Preferably, collimators  40  of different characteristics can be used as known in the art for producing alternate focusing and/or collimating properties of illumination emitted from illuminator  12 . 
         [0095]    Preferably, collimator  40  focuses and/or collimates illumination passing through collimator  40  into a clear, substantially circular area of illumination that is substantially between 0.01 and 0.1 centimeters in diameter when illuminating at 9 yards. 
         [0096]    Preferably, collimator  40  focuses and/or collimates illumination passing through collimator  40  into a clear, substantially circular area of illumination that is substantially between 0.1 and 0.6 centimeters in diameter when illuminating at 9 yards. 
         [0097]    Preferably, a bias  42  is situated on, or in adjacency to, actuator  16  for readily displacing actuator  16  such that actuator  16  disengages and illumination ceases. 
         [0098]    Preferably, training aid  10  includes an identification transmitter  44  for readily transmitting a signal from training aid  10  to any receiver. 
         [0099]    Preferably, identification transmitter  44  readily transmits a signal substantially contemporaneously with every illumination of illuminator  12 . 
         [0100]    Preferably, identification transmitter  44  is capable of transmitting any type of signal compatible with any weapon simulation system known in the art, including but not limited to, Miles2000™. Namely and by way of example only identification transmitter  44  readily facilitates transmitting any signal indicative of simulating any weapon type. 
         [0101]    Preferably, identification transmitter  44  is capable of transmitting any signal indicative of simulating any specific firearm  18 . 
         [0102]    Optionally, training aid  10  is further comprised of a pneumatic recoil simulation element  46 , for readily allowing discharge of training aid  10  as if training aid was a fully functional bolt, rotating bolt or bolt carrier firing a standard cartridge. 
         [0103]    Alternatively, recoil simulation element only “re-cocks” hammer  22  without appreciably displacing bolt carrier  30  or bolt  28 . 
         [0104]    Optionally, recoil simulation element  46  is non-pneumatic and includes a solenoid for simulating the recoil and/or “re-cocking” hammer  22 . 
         [0105]    Optionally, recoil simulation element is activated electrically by trigger  20  without having recourse to using hammer  22  and/or firing pin  24 . 
         [0106]    Optionally, firearm  18  is further comprises of a pneumatic mechanism  48  such as has been disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,146,141, for readily simulating “kickback”. 
         [0107]    In operation, hammer  22  is displaced to a rearward position. Such rearward positioning of hammer  22  is known as “cocking” and usually a prerequisite step to discharging firearm  18  and engaging training aid  10 . 
         [0108]    After firearm  18  has been cocked, rearward displacement of trigger  20  results in a complimentary displacement of the hammer  22  to a forward position, thereby striking firing pin  24 . Such strikes cause firing pin  24  to strike actuator  16 , the contact from such striking of actuator  16  thereby completing an electrical circuit. 
         [0109]    Occasioning on a hammerless firearm  18  being used, in operation, firing pin  24  is displaced to a rearward position. Such rearward positioning of firing pin  24  is known as “cocking” and is a prerequisite step to discharging hammerless firearm  18  and engaging training aid  10 . 
         [0110]    After hammerless firearm  18  has been cocked, rearward displacement of trigger  20  results in a complimentary release of firing pin  24  to a forward position, thereby striking actuator  16 , the contact from such striking of actuator  16  thereby completing an electrical circuit. 
         [0111]    Occasioning on firearm  18  being a revolver, a bolt action rifle, a roating bolt rifle or firearm  18  having a “double action” mechanism (DA) or double action only mechanism (DAO), illumination of illuminator  12  occurs substantially contemporaneously with firing pin  24  striking actuator  16 . 
         [0112]    Completion of electrical circuit brought about by firing pin  24  striking actuator  16  causes power source  14  to provide power to illuminator  12 . Upon receiving power from power source  14 , illuminator  12  emits illumination that passes through collimator  40  and further through barrel  26  and then out of firearm  18  to a location collinear with barrel  26 . In an embodiment of the present invention wherein illuminator  12  is a laser diode, illuminator  12  emits coherent electro-magnetic radiation that passes through collimator  40  before exiting barrel  26  of firearm  18  to a location collinear with barrel  26 . 
         [0113]    Preferably, illuminator  12  illuminates for 0.05-0.5 seconds for every illumination. 
         [0114]    The term “eye safe” as used herein includes, but is not limited to lasers in classes 1, 1M, 2 and 2M of American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z136.1 (2000) standard. 
         [0115]    More preferably illuminator  12  illuminates substantially “eye safe” illumination. 
         [0116]    Preferably, illumination of illuminator  12  is modulated between 10-100 KHz. 
         [0117]    More preferably, illumination of illuminator  12  is modulated at substantially 40 KHz. 
         [0118]    Preferably, illuminator  12  is capable of illuminating at any wavelength including, but not limited to, visible, Infra Red, Ultra Violet and X-ray wavelengths. 
         [0119]    Preferably, illuminator  12  illuminates at a wavelength of substantially 635 nm. 
         [0120]    Preferably, illuminator  12  illuminates substantially at a wavelength producing visible red. 
         [0121]    Preferably, illuminator  12  illuminates substantially at a wavelength producing Infra Red (IR) illumination. 
         [0122]    Preferably, illuminator  12  illuminates substantially at a wavelength producing visible red illumination 
         [0123]    Preferably, training aid  10  is compatible with any simulation known and used in the art including, but not limited to, Miles 2000™. 
         [0124]    Preferably, duration of completed electrical circuit resulting from contact between firing pin  24  and actuator  16  is predetermined by bias  42 , or by capacitor  36  circuitry located in training aid  10 . 
         [0125]    Occasioning on a hammerless firearm  18  being used, in operation, firing pin  24  is displaced to a rearward position. Such rearward positioning of firing pin  24  is known as “cocking” and is a prerequisite step to discharging hammerless firearm  18  and engaging training aid  10 . 
         [0126]    After firearm  18  has been cocked, rearward displacement of trigger  20  results in a complimentary displacement of firing pin  24  to a forward position. Thereafter, firing pin  24  strikes actuator  16 , the contact from such striking of actuator  16  thereby completing an electrical circuit. 
         [0127]    Completion of electrical circuit brought about by firing pin  24  striking actuator  16  causes power source  14  to provide power to illuminator  12 . Upon receiving power from power source  14 , illuminator  12  emits illumination that passes through collimator  40  and further through barrel  26  and then out of firearm  18  to a location collinear with barrel  26 . In an embodiment of the present invention wherein illuminator  12  is a laser diode, illuminator  12  emits coherent electro-magnetic radiation that passes through collimator  40  before exiting barrel  26  of firearm  18  to a location collinear with barrel  26 . 
         [0128]    Preferably, duration of completed electrical circuit resulting from contact between firing pin  24  and actuator  16  is predetermined by bias  42 , or by capacitor  36  circuitry located in training aid  10 . 
         [0129]    Preferably, actuator  16  is activated in response to sound and/or vibration from firing pin  24  being struck by hammer  22  and/or firing pin  24  striking actuator  16  and/or firing pin  24  striking pressure sensitive switch  34 . 
         [0130]    Preferably, a firearm magazine  50  includes a recoil simulation element  46  for simulating subjective and objective recoil. 
         [0131]    As used herein the term “objective recoil” includes but is not limited to the backwards displacement of a firearm by the conservation of momentum on emission of a projectile from the firearm, the rebounding of a firearm after the firearm has been fired. 
         [0132]    As used herein the term “subjective recoil” includes but is not limited to the “flip” of a muzzle on a firearm after being fired and/or the felt torque of the firearm due to contrary forces being applied while a projectile travels down a rifled barrel and/or the slap the user feels and/or recoil impulse the user feels when firing a firearm. 
         [0133]    Thus, recoil simulation element  46  for simulating subjective and objective recoil is geared towards simulating subjective and objective recoil with sufficient energy and or momentum to simulate subjective recoil and/or objective recoil of any cartridge known in the art. 
         [0134]    Preferably, training aid  40  includes an identification chip  52  for readily transmitting any type of signal compatible with any weapon simulation system known in the art, including but not limited to, Miles2000™. Namely and by way of example only identification chip  52  readily facilitates transmitting any signal indicative of simulating any weapon type. 
         [0135]    Preferably, identification chip  52  is capable of transmitting any signal indicative of simulating any specific firearm. 
         [0136]    As used herein, the term “transmitter” includes, but is not limited to, a RF transmitter, an IR source, a WiFi module, RFID and a “blue tooth” module. 
         [0137]    As used herein, the term “receiver” includes, but is not limited to, a RF receiver, an IR module, a WiFi module, RFID module and a “blue tooth” module. 
         [0138]    Optionally magazine  50  includes a speaker or an audio apparatus  54  responsive to the training aid  10  for readily simulating the audio sound characteristic the firearm being used. 
         [0139]    Alternatively, audio apparatus  54  can be set and/or programmed to produce any audio sound characteristic of any firearm thereby providing simulating and training enhancements beyond what is commonly known in the art. 
         [0140]    A variety of safety enhancements are envisaged with training aid  10 . By way of example only, a safety color such as bright orange can be included on a cocking handle  56  or any other prominent or visible area of the firearm. 
         [0141]    Optionally, bolt carrier  30  can be constructed or include a component selected from the group consisting of: colored polymer, painted aluminum, anodized aluminum, Teflon coated materials, brass, copper or any other non-marring and/or readily visible material or color. 
         [0142]      FIG. 2  shows a training aid system  58  in alternative embodiment of a replacement bolt and/or rotating bolt  28  and/or a bolt carrier  30  for dry fire and live fire simulation. 
         [0143]    As shown, a training aid system  58  preferably includes an illuminator  12 , a power source  14 , and an actuator  16 . 
         [0144]    Training aid system  58  is preferably used while situated inside of, and in conjunction with, a firearm  18 , wherein firearm  18  is preferably comprised of a trigger  20  (shown in  FIG. 1 ), a hammer  22  (shown in  FIG. 1 ), a firing pin  24 , and a barrel  26  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). Barrel  26  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) is preferably comprised of a material capable of conducting an electrical current. 
         [0145]    Preferably, the firearm is one selected from the group consisting of any firearm including a bolt and/or rotating bolt  28 , a bolt carrier  30  as well as rifles, Machine guns, Sniper rifles, a pistol, a revolver, a shotgun, a rifle and the like. 
         [0146]    Preferably, training aid system  58  has a concentric shape recalling that of a bolt and/or rotating bolt  28  and/or a bolt carrier  30 . 
         [0147]    Preferably, illuminator  12  is a light emitting diode (“LED”) for readily emitting a visible light and/or IR illumination. 
         [0148]    Alternatively, illuminator  12  is an LED of sufficient power to illuminate proximal and distal targets with visible and/or invisible illumination. 
         [0149]    Preferably, illuminator  12  is an LED has a capacity of at between 0.1-1 watts. 
         [0150]    Preferably, illuminator  12  is an LED has a capacity of at between 0.1-1 watts. 
         [0151]    Preferably, illuminator  12  is an LED has a capacity of at least 1 watts. 
         [0152]    Alternatively, illuminator  12  is a bulb, which bulb is constructed of such desired shape and size so as to fit within the physical contours of training aid system  58 . 
         [0153]    More preferably, illuminator  12  is a laser diode for readily emitting coherent electro-magnetic radiation. 
         [0154]    Preferably, power source  14  is electrically connected to illuminator  12 . Preferably, power source  14  is situated in adjacency to illuminator  12  for readily powering illuminator  12 . Optionally, illuminator  12  is powered by a battery  32 . 
         [0155]    Preferably, battery  32  is a lithium battery for readily enhancing length of use. More preferably, battery  32  is a battery commonly used with known electro-optic products known in the art. 
         [0156]    Especially preferred, battery  32  is a 3 v lithium battery akin of CR123 batteries known in the art. 
         [0157]    Alternatively, actuator  16  is constructed of a crystalline. Optionally, actuator  16  is constructed of at least one crystalline formation, such that application of mechanical stress and/or pressure on actuator  16  generates sufficient electric current to power illuminator  12 . 
         [0158]    Preferably, power source  14  generates electric current by application of stress and/or mechanical pressure to a substance thus bringing about electric polarization in the substance. 
         [0159]    Preferably, actuator  16  includes a pressure sensitive switch  34  constructed of such material so as to be able to conduct an electrical current. 
         [0160]    Preferably, pressure sensitive switch  34  simulates a firearm primer. Preferably, actuator  16  is constructed of such material so as to substantially lessen impact of firing pin  24  when actuator  16  is struck by firing pin  24 . 
         [0161]    Optionally an abbreviated firing pin  24  can be used thereby facilitating larger overall length (OAL) of the components in bolt  28 . 
         [0162]    Preferably, actuator  16  and/or pressure sensitive switch  34  include an energy absorbing material such that energy from firing pin  24  striking pressure sensitive switch  34  is dampened. 
         [0163]    Preferably, actuator  16  and/or pressure sensitive switch  34  are constructed in way that energy from firing pin  24  striking pressure sensitive switch  34  is dampened. 
         [0164]    Preferably, actuator  16  is electrically connected to, and situated near, power source  14  so as to be capable of conducting an electrical current from power source  14 . Actuator  16  is further preferably electrically connected to, and situated near, batteries  32  so as to be capable of conducting an electrical current from batteries  32 . 
         [0165]    Preferably, training aid system  58  includes a capacitor  36  attached to, or integrally formed with, power source  14 . 
         [0166]    Preferably, capacitor  36  is geared toward providing a multiplicity of time settings wherein capacitor can be preset to release an electrical charge sufficient for a single illumination of illuminator  12 . 
         [0167]    Optionally capacitor  36  replaces and/or augments the use of batteries  32  in training aid system  58 . 
         [0168]    Preferably, capacitor  36  is geared toward providing the ability to create a simulated jam in the firearm, such that the user shall be required to perform a predetermined manipulation of the firearm prior to capacitor  36  reengaging and facilitating the continuation of the string of fire. 
         [0169]    By way of example only, the “jam” may require the removal and insertion of the magazine in order to clear the “jammed” weapon and prior to capacitor  36  reengaging and facilitating the continuation of the string of fire. Alternatively, either randomly, or once in, for example, 90 shots fired, or the fourth shot fired the firearm is set to simulate a “jam”, thereby forcing the user to “clear” the jammed condition of the firearm. 
         [0170]    Optionally, a time chip  38  is electrically to, or integrally formed with, power source  14 . 
         [0171]    Preferably, time chip  38  can be preset to readily facilitate illumination of illuminator  12  for any time between 0.01 seconds and 1.0 seconds. 
         [0172]    Preferably, time chip  38  can be preset to readily facilitate illumination of illuminator  12  for any time between 0.05 seconds and 0.30 seconds. 
         [0173]    Preferably, time chip  38  can be preset to readily facilitate illumination of illuminator  12  for substantially 0.25 seconds. 
         [0174]    Preferably, time chip  38  can be preset to readily facilitate illumination of illuminator  12  for any time between 0.5 seconds and 2.0 seconds, such that any displacement of the firearm during or after illumination initiation is readily visible to a user either with the naked eye or with the assistance of suitable apparatus as in the case of an IR illumination. 
         [0175]    Preferably, training aid system  58  includes a collimator  40  attached to, or integrally formed, with illuminator  12 . 
         [0176]    Preferably, collimator  40  is situated in adjacency to illuminator  12  for readily focusing light and/or electromagnetic radiation passing through collimator  40 . 
         [0177]    Preferably, collimators  40  of different characteristics can be used as known in the art for producing alternate focusing and/or collimating properties of illumination emitted from illuminator  12 . 
         [0178]    Preferably, collimator  40  focuses and/or collimates illumination passing through collimator  40  into a clear, substantially circular area of illumination that is substantially between 0.01 and 0.1 centimeters in diameter when illuminating at 9 yards. 
         [0179]    Preferably, collimator  40  focuses and/or collimates illumination passing through collimator  40  into a clear, substantially circular area of illumination that is substantially between 0.1 and 0.6 centimeters in diameter when illuminating at 9 yards. 
         [0180]    Preferably, training aid system  58  includes an identification transmitter  44  for readily transmitting a signal from training aid system  58  to any receiver. 
         [0181]    Preferably, identification transmitter  44  readily transmits a signal substantially contemporaneously with every illumination of illuminator  12 . 
         [0182]    Preferably, identification transmitter  44  is capable of transmitting any type of signal compatible with any weapon simulation system known in the art, including but not limited to, Miles2000™. Namely and by way of example only identification transmitter  44  readily facilitates transmitting any signal indicative of simulating any weapon type. 
         [0183]    Preferably, identification transmitter  44  is capable of transmitting any signal indicative of simulating any specific the firearm. 
         [0184]    Occasioning on the firearm being a revolver, a bolt action rifle, a roating bolt rifle or the firearm having a “double action” mechanism (DA) or double action only mechanism (DAO), illumination of illuminator  12  occurs substantially contemporaneously with firing pin  24  striking actuator  16 . 
         [0185]    Completion of electrical circuit brought about by firing pin  24  striking actuator  16  causes power source  14  to provide power to illuminator  12 . Upon receiving power from power source  14 , illuminator  12  emits illumination that passes through collimator  40  and further through barrel  26  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) and then out of the firearm to a location collinear with barrel  26  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). In an embodiment of the present invention wherein illuminator  12  is a laser diode, illuminator  12  emits coherent electro-magnetic radiation that passes through collimator  40  before exiting barrel  26  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) of the firearm to a location collinear with barrel  26  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0186]    Preferably, illuminator  12  illuminates for 0.05-0.5 seconds for every illumination. 
         [0187]    The term “eye safe” as used herein includes, but is not limited to lasers in classes 1, 1M, 2 and 2M of American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z136.1 (2000) standard. 
         [0188]    More preferably illuminator  12  illuminates substantially “eye safe” illumination. 
         [0189]    Preferably, illumination of illuminator  12  is modulated between 10-100 KHz. 
         [0190]    More preferably, illumination of illuminator  12  is modulated at substantially 40 KHz. 
         [0191]    Preferably, illuminator  12  is capable of illuminating at any wavelength including, but not limited to, visible, Infra Red, Ultra Violet and X-ray wavelengths. 
         [0192]    Preferably, illuminator  12  illuminates at a wavelength of substantially 635 nm. 
         [0193]    Preferably, illuminator  12  illuminates substantially at a wavelength producing visible red. 
         [0194]    Preferably, illuminator  12  illuminates substantially at a wavelength producing Infra Red (IR) illumination. 
         [0195]    Preferably, illuminator  12  illuminates substantially at a wavelength producing visible red illumination 
         [0196]    Preferably, training aid system  58  is compatible with any simulation known and used in the art including, but not limited to, Miles 2000™. 
         [0197]    Preferably, duration of completed electrical circuit resulting from contact between firing pin  24  and actuator  16  is predetermined by capacitor  36  circuitry located in training aid system  58 . 
         [0198]    Occasioning on a hammerless the firearm being used, in operation, firing pin  24  is displaced to a rearward position. Such rearward positioning of firing pin  24  is known as “cocking” and is a prerequisite step to discharging hammerless the firearm and engaging training aid system  58 . 
         [0199]    After the firearm has been cocked, rearward displacement of trigger  20  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) results in a complimentary displacement of firing pin  24  to a forward position. Thereafter, firing pin  24  strikes actuator  16 , the contact from such striking of actuator  16  thereby completing an electrical circuit. 
         [0200]    Completion of electrical circuit brought about by firing pin  24  striking actuator  16  causes power source  14  to provide power to illuminator  12 . Upon receiving power from power source  14 , illuminator  12  emits illumination that passes through collimator  40  and further through barrel  26  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) and then out of the firearm to a location collinear with barrel  26  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). In an embodiment of the present invention wherein illuminator  12  is a laser diode, illuminator  12  emits coherent electro-magnetic radiation that passes through collimator  40  before exiting barrel  26  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) of the firearm to a location collinear with barrel  26  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0201]    Preferably, duration of completed electrical circuit resulting from contact between firing pin  24  and actuator  16  is predetermined by capacitor  36  circuitry located in training aid system  58 . 
         [0202]    Preferably, actuator  16  is activated in response to sound and/or vibration from firing pin  24  being struck by hammer  22  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) and/or firing pin  24  striking actuator  16  and/or firing pin  24  striking pressure sensitive switch  34 . 
         [0203]    Preferably, training aid  40  includes an identification chip  52  for readily transmitting any type of signal compatible with any weapon simulation system known in the art, including but not limited to, Miles2000™. Namely and by way of example only identification chip  52  readily facilitates transmitting any signal indicative of simulating any weapon type. 
         [0204]    Preferably, identification chip  52  is capable of transmitting any signal indicative of simulating any specific firearm. 
         [0205]    As used herein, the term “transmitter” includes, but is not limited to, a RF transmitter, an IR source, a WiFi module, RFID and a “blue tooth” module. 
         [0206]    As used herein, the term “receiver” includes, but is not limited to, a RF receiver, an IR module, a WiFi module, RFID module and a “blue tooth” module. 
         [0207]    It will be appreciated that the above descriptions are intended to only serve as examples, and that many other embodiments are possible within the spirit and scope of the present invention.