COMBAT SIMULATION SYSTEM AND METHOD
FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to combat simulations and, in particular,
the invention concerns a combat simulation system and method to be used with
models of weapon platforms controlled and navigated by a remote control to
simulate a pre firing signal and a firing signal created by releasing
electromagnetic radiation towards a target, thereafter registering the "hits" and
transmitting the designated signal to a second location.
Since the invention of weapons, a simple and efficient way to simulate
combat was sought. For many years individuals used models of weapon
systems to simulate various combat scenarios. The various models and devices
included, among others, scaled model tanks and scaled artillery models
utilizing a single shot 0.22-inch gun to simulate tank and artillery fire.
Alternatively, models equipped with a firearm have been used for simulating
purposes both with and without shot. There is an obvious hazard in using such
models as they may cause the injury or even. the death of a user. Other combat
simulation models include remote controlled model aircraft for performing
aerobatic maneuvers or for using aircraft models to simulate air to air combat
and for simulating attacking targets on the ground as well as pleasurable
pastime activities according to the teachings of U.S. Patent Number 5,892,221
"Combat simulation method and system utilizing lasers with wireless
activation" to Lev.
In the present and future battlefield, several different weapon systems
are employed while using guidance and aiming accessories. Electro-optic
systems emit electromagnetic radiation including, but not limited to, coherent
electromagnetic radiation.
By way of example only, coherent electromagnetic radiation is used in
range finders, which are used to measure distances between the laser source
and a target with a high degree of accuracy. The principles and operation of a
range finder are based on a short pulse being emitted, travels at the speed of
light, in a narrow collimated beam until the target. The radiation returned from
the target is scattered and the rangefinder detectors detect only part of the
radiation. The time betweerr radiation being emitted and detected enables an
exact distance to be calculated.
Furthermore, designators are used to manually "mark" targets for
accurate targeting. The principles and operation of designators are based on a
laser source with of a narrowing column and a relatively high rate of pulsation.
Thus, a typical radiation "signature" is produced on the target and is reflected
in all directions. The radiation returned is then used for guiding bombs and
missiles towards the target.
Another weapon system is a Laser guided missile. In the missile a laser
source illuminates a target and the missile is guided by the laser radiation
reflected from the target until impacting the target.
For the purpose of clarity, listed hereinbelow are sample characteristics
of each radiation source commonly found in modern battlefields.
Type of Source Wavelength Pulse Frequency (Microns) (nSec) Hz
Range Finder 1.06 5-30 1/1.5
Range Finder 0.69 30-40 1/1.5
Designator 1.06 15-40 2-20
Guided Missile 0.905 200 2,000
Each one of the weapon systems has many specific characteristics of the
radiation source and the specific characteristics are often manifested in
wavelength, pulse, energy and frequency.
Due to these characteristics being known, early warning systems can be
created to warn as to the direction of the source and against risks related to any
of the above systems. Furthermore, by knowing the type and location of
weapon system, counter measures and electronic counter measures (ECM) can
be employed against these systems.
In other weapon systems, radar is used for guidance to the target and
delivery of the pay load.
The radar systems can be identified by several characteristics including
but not limited to frequency bands as listed hereinbelow:
Symbol Frequency Wavelength
(GHz) (Cm)
L 1-2 30-15
S 2-4 15-7.5
C 4-8 7.5-3.75
X 8-12 3.75-2.5
Ku 12-18 2.5-1.6
K 18-27 1.6-1.1
Ka 27-40 1.1-0.75
MM (3) 40-100 0.75-0.3
Here as well, due to specific characteristics of each weapon being
known, warning systems against each type of system can be created to warn as
to the direction of the source and against risks related to any of the above
systems. Furthermore, by knowing the type and location of weapon system,
counter measures and electronic counter measures (ECM) can be employed
against these systems.
Further combat simulations have been attempted by individuals, which
recreate combined ground, air and naval forces simulating ground, air to
ground, air to sea, or sea battles either separately or conjunctively, while using
scaled models of the soldiers, weapons and platforms on which model weapon
systems were used. Again, the attempts of recreating or simulating ground or
sea battles also suffer from the deficiency of the attempts described.
Most methods for dealing with a laser threat include some active
countermeasures, evasive maneuvers, or direct engagement. Generally, combat
units will use laser threat-management methods in a variety of combinations.
However, all of these alternatives presume that, in most situations, the hostile
laser has been detected, identified, and exactly localized within the extremely
short span of time available. Crews in fighting vehicles, tanks, armored trucks,
infantry soldiers, and others can be instantaneously warned of specific laser
threats to maintain/enhance their survivability. However, simulating an attack
by a plurality of weapon systems using illumination for target acquisition is not
facilitated by existing systems. Moreover, all existing systems do not facilitate
retaliatory measures including simulated fire and live fire upon the simulated
illuminating weapon.
The military presently uses a laser detection system for battlefield
simulation training. One such system is referred to as the Modular Integrated
Laser Engagement System (MILES) developed by the Naval Training
Equipment Center working in conjunction with military contractors. The
MILES system equips soldiers with pulsed semiconductor lasers and sensors.
The lasers may be attached to a variety of weapons, each firing a characteristic
sequence of pulses. When the war games start, the soldiers fire laser pulses at
each other, and the sensors keep score. However, such systems do not provide
military personnel with advance warning of the laser threat and are not
battlefield effective. Furthermore, systems for simulating live fire, such as the
MILES system and other systems are incapable of simulating a wide range of
weapon systems utilizing illumination, including weapons like Laser Guided
Missiles and the like. Further still, systems like the MILES system do not
facilitate live fire on an illuminator for obvious reasons.
Several US companies have developed the MILES system for the US
Army. Among which, Lockheed® and Cubic® are the most dominant.
The principle used in the MILES and similar systems is to equip any
weapon system with a encoded laser source whereby each weapon type is given
a special code to identify the type of weapon irrespectively of whether the
weapon system has any illumination source whatsoever like for example rifles
handguns and the like.
For he purpose of standardization of systems the Department of the
Army simulation, training and instrumentation command issued a publication
including the standard codes for each weapon system entitled "Standard for
MILES Communication Code Structure". The latest edition for printed is
entitled "MCC97 STANDARD".
All laser sources used in the MILES system use the same frequency and
pulse on which the code is carried. A partial list of weapon systems and codes
is listed hereinbelow.
BASIC MILES CODE STRUCTURE
D D D DATA BITS" BASIC WEAPON/FUNCTION
D D D D D D D D MILES CODE
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ε 1 . ) 10 NO .
1 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 00 UNIV. KILL, CONTR, GUN, 100% KILL
1 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 01 MAVERICK HIT
1 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 02 HELLFIRE HIT
1 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 1 03 AT-3 SAGGER (NTC BMP) HIT
1 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 04 60MM, 81MM, 4.2 INCH HIT
1 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 05 M15 MINE (TRACK CUTTER) HIT
1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 06 WEAPON "X" HIT
1 1 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 07 TOW, SHILLELACH, AT-6 (NTC HIND-D HIT
1 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 08 DRAGON, SPANDREL (NTC BRDM-2) HIT
1 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 09 FIRE & FORGET MISSILES (JAVELIN)
1 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 10 M21 ANTITANK, 125MM (NTC T72) HIT
1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 11 CLAYMORE M81A1 AND Ml6 HIT
Alternatively the target can retaliate by firing upon the source of
illumination by way of a laser simulating live fire.
Using cheap air-born platforms saves maintenance times and costs
which would have been needed for the simulation. Furthermore, real fire
exercises cannot be performed against manned weapon systems.
Several additional combat systems have been developed to address laser
illumination related threats. Namely, detecting an illumination by laser and
detecting the direction the illumination came from, for the purpose of firing
upon the laser illuminator.
All such combat systems are devoid of a simulation capability
facilitating a simulated attacker to illuminate a target in a manner similar to
existing combat weapon systems and such that a target illuminated will be able
to "fire" upon the illuminator, either with simulated fire or live fire with the
combat weapon systems firing live ammunition. Namely, all such systems
cannot facilitate simulated attacks, which simulate a wide variety of
illuminating weapon systems while incorporating live fire on the illuminator.
There is therefore a need for an effective combat simulation system to
be used on weapon platform models, which simulates firing, target "hits" and
registering the firing and the hits.
There is a further need for an effective combat simulation system, which
simulates target illumination and facilitates an illuminated target to "fire" upon
the illuminator, either with simulated fire or real fire with real weapon systems.
There is yet a further need to create a system which mimics a variety of
weapon systems by emitting the same type of illumination with the same
characteristics that the weapon system actually emits and that the system will
be suitably mounted on a remote controlled platform whether air-born, sea-born
or land. Thus, the target can detect and employ the target defense systems
including employing counter measures, performing evasive maneuvers,
creating smoke screens and real fire resulting in the incapacitation and
destruction of the illuminating platform.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is a combat simulation system and method, which
can be used with a model of a weapon platform for simulating firing upon real
targets as well as target "hits", and for registering the firing and the hits.
Hereinafter the term "UAV" refers to any unmanned aerial vehicle
including, but not limited to: UAV's, VTOL's and drones.
In the case of remote controlled models used in such simulations, the
users control the models from the remote location and are usually limited to the
range of the transmitters in the remote controls.
A typical combat simulation of models will take place in the air space
immediately above the heads of the users and may include several models
attempting to maneuver to a firing position in relation to the other models.
A ship combat simulation will typically take place in the sea, a pool or a
pond, using manned and unmanned remote controlled sea vessels.
The simulation will often be a re-creation of a famous battle or a
conventional combat simulation.
The users will often attempt to maneuver their ships to a firing position
permitting broadside hits.
Hereinafter, the term "wireless device" refers to any device, which is
capable of transmitting a signal to a receiver, which is not in direct physical
proximity to the wireless device as well as any device, which is not attached to
a controlling apparatus with an electrically conductive wire.
Hereinafter, the term "illumination" refers to any radiation originating
from a predator platform, which simulates any "active" weapon or guidance
system including, but not limited to: firing a weapon upon a target, releasing
coherent electromagnetic radiation and microwave energy used to guide
weapon systems to a target and radar radiation used by aircraft and missiles for
"locking on" and guiding weapon systems to a target.
Hereinafter, the term "real target" refers to any target including a laser
detection system or "illumination" detection system, which provides detection
coverage capabilities to identify the region of origination of the laser or
illumination or, identification of potential direct or indirect laser or illumination
energy and automatically alerts the target or the target occupiers to the detected
laser or illumination and the direction of laser or illumination origination.
Furthermore, the detection and relevant parameters can be relayed to a remote
station for analysis and battlefield assessment-.
According to the teachings of the present invention there is provided, a
combat simulation system including: (a) a predator including: (i) an
illumination source; and (ii) a receiver electronically attached to the
illumination source and responsive to signals transmitted from a remote
control; and (b) a target including: (i) a target illumination detector responsive
to illumination from the illumination source; and (ii) a weapon system
responsive attached to the target illumination detector and capable of
neutralizing any threat from the predator.
According to further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the predator can simulate any illumination of any weapon
system.
According to still further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the target weapon system can simulate any simulated
defensive measures against the predator.
According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the illumination source includes a radar source.
According to further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the illumination source further includes a laser.
According to still further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the laser source includes a laser modulator.
According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the target includes a warning system for warning on any
illumination detected by the target detector. •
According to further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the illumination source includes a radar source and a laser.
According to still further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the target includes a warning system for warning on any
threats posed by any system detected.
According to the teachings of further embodiments of the present
invention there is provided a combat simulation system including: (a) a
predator capable of simulating any illumination of any weapon system
including: (i) an illumination source mounted on a modular platform and
including a radar source and a laser source; and (ii) a receiver electronically
attached to the illumination source and responsive to signals transmitted from a
wireless remote control device; and (b) a target including: (i) a target
illumination detector responsive to illumination from the illumination source;
(ii) a warning system for warning on any illumination detected by the target
detector; and (ii) a weapon system responsive to the target illumination
detector.
According to further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the modular platform is readily transferable from the predator
to any other predator platform.
According to still further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the illumination source is independently alignable towards
the target, irrespective of the alignment of the target in relation to the predator.
According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the illumination source includes a tunable laser.
According to the teachings of further embodiments of the present
invention there is provided a combat simulation system including: (a) a
predator capable of simulating any illumination of any weapon system
including: (i) an illumination source; (ii) a processor for controlling the
predator according to simulation framework or the predetermined flight
envelope or mission priorities in which combat takes place; and (b) a target
including: (i) a target illumination detector responsive to illumination from the
illumination source; and (ii) a weapon system responsive to the target
illumination detector and capable of neutralizing any threat from the predator
or performing any real or simulated defensive measures against the predator.
According to further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the predator and the illumination are autonomously controlled
and operated.
According to still further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the predator further includes a predator illumination detector
and predator processor for detecting and processing reflected illumination from
the target or illumination by the weapon system.
According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the predator is capable of performing any defensive or
offensive procedures according to survivability and tactical priorities
determined by the predator processor.
According to further embodiments -of the system according to the
present invention the target retaliates automatically to any illumination detected
by the target detector.
According to further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the target includes a database of all illuminations detected by
the target detector and all defensive or retaliatory measures taken against the
illumination source.
According to still further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the illumination source includes a radar source.
According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the radar source includes a variable frequency generator .
According to further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the illumination source further includes a laser.
According to still further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the laser source includes a laser modulator.
According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the illumination source is a pulsed semiconductor laser.
According to yet further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the pulsed semiconductor laser is operated according to the
Standard for MILES Communication Code Structure
According to further embodiments of the system according to the
present invention the pulsed semiconductor laser is operated according to any
weapon simulation system coding structure.
According to further embodiments .of the system according to the
present invention the pulsed semiconductor laser is operated according to any
integrated multiple weapon simulation system.
According to the teachings of still further embodiments of the present
invention there is provided a combat simulation system including any of the
features or components depicted in the specification of the application or in
Figures 1-3.
According to the teachings of the present invention there is provided a
combat simulation method including any system with any features or
components depicted in the specification of the application or in Figures 1-3.
According to the teachings of the present invention there is provided a
method for depleting target counter measures including: (a) a combat
simulation system including: (i) a predator capable of simulating any
illumination of any weapon system including: (1) an illumination source
mounted on a modular platform and including a radar source and a laser source;
and (2) a receiver electronically attached to the illumination source and
responsive to signals transmitted from a remote control; and (ii) a target
including: (1) a target illumination detector responsive to illumination from the
illumination source; (2) a warning system for warning on any illumination
detected by the target detector; and (3) a weapon system responsive to the
target illumination detector and capable of neutralizing any threat from the
predator or performing any real or simulated defensive measures against the
predator; and (b) illuminating the target with an illumination of a weapon
system originating from the illumination source, such that the target will
exploit target defensive counter-measures.
According to further embodiments of the method for depleting target
counter measures according to the present invention the illumination source
includes a tunable laser.
According to further embodiments of the method for depleting target
counter measures according to the present invention the radar source includes a
variable frequency generator .
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention is herein described, by way of example only, with
reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of the components making up the system
according to the present invention and mounted on a model aircraft and a target
tank;
FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the system mounted on model aircraft and
for simulating an attack against a tank; and
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of preferred components of the system of
the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The present invention is a combat simulation system and method, which
can be used with a model of a weapon platform for simulating firing upon real
targets as well as target "hits", and for registering the firing and the hits.
The principles and operation of a combat simulation system according to
the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings
and the accompanying description.
Typically, aircraft combat simulations are held between two or more
aircraft in a pre-defined air envelope, which defines minimum and maximum
altitudes as well as areas and altitudes where engagement is permitted.
Every user or pilot then maneuvers their aircraft to a starting point
where the combat commences and each user or pilot starts maneuvering their
aircraft until another aircraft is within the line of sight where the user or pilot
will activate their weapon system, scoring a "kill".
Typically, most users or pilots will try to execute sharp angles of attack,
which make it harder for a prospective target to successfully perform evasive
maneuvers and tactics.
Obviously, with real aircraft, live fire is not an option available due to
risk of injury or death to the participants.
Live fire simulations can only be performed with the real aircraft
performing offensive maneuvers as a predator and against an unmanned aerial
vehicles (UAV's), vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (VTOL's) and drones.
Hereinafter the term "UAV" refers to any unmanned aerial vehicle
including, but not limited to: UAV's, VTOL's and drones.
In the case of remote controlled models used in such simulations, the
users control the models from the remote location and are usually limited to the
range of the transmitters in the remote controls.
A typical combat simulation of models will take place in the air space
immediately above the heads of the users and may include several models
attempting to maneuver to a firing position in relation to the other models.
A ship combat simulation will typically take place in the sea, a pool or a
pond, using manned and unmanned remote controlled sea vessels.
The simulation will often be a re-creation of a famous battle or a
conventional combat simulation.
The users will often attempt to maneuver their ships to a firing position
permitting broadside hits.
Hits between the bow and the beam are especially favored, as they
probably would have resulted in the target ship sinking if real shells had been
fired.
Hereinafter, the term "wireless device" refers to any device, which is
capable of transmitting a signal to a receiver, which is not in direct physical
proximity to the wireless device as well as any device, which is not attached to
a controlling apparatus with an electrically conductive wire.
Hereinafter, the term; "illumination" refers to any radiation originating
from a predator platform, which simulates any "active" weapon or guidance
system including, but not limited to: firing a weapon upon a target, releasing
coherent electromagnetic radiation and microwave energy used to guide
weapon systems to a target and radar radiation used by aircraft and missiles for
"locking on" and guiding weapon systems to a target.
Hereinafter, the term "real target" refers to any target including a laser
detection system or "illumination" detection system, which provides detection
coverage capabilities to identify the region of origination of the laser or
illumination or, identification of potential direct or indirect laser or illumination
energy and automatically alerts the target or the target occupiers to the detected
laser or illumination and the direction of laser or illumination origination.
Furthermore, the detection and relevant parameters can be relayed to a remote
station for analysis and battlefield assessment.
Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1 illustrates the basic components
of a system according to the present invention, wherein a first remote control
10, operated by a user, activates a first illumination source 12. After the user
has maneuvered a modular platform 13, on which first illumination source 12 is
mounted, into a firing position.
As shown, first remote control 10 sends a signal along a path, generally
indicated as "χ", to first illumination source 12. The illuminating radiation,
emitted by first illumination source 12, travels along a path generally indicated
as "α", and contacts a target 14, which can be substantially illuminated by first
illumination source 12. A target illumination detector 16, situated on target 14
and responsive to illumination from first illumination source 12, picks up
illumination radiation illuminating target 14.
Preferably, first radiation source 12 is suitably mounted on a predator
platform 18. Preferably, illumination source 12 includes a laser 20. Laser
sources sufficiently small and lightweight to be mounted on small model
aircraft are well known in the art. Laser sources of such dimensions have been
disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,179,235 and 5,435,091 granted to Tolle and U.S.
Pat. No. 5,509,226 granted to Houde- Walter, to name but a few.
Preferably, laser 20 is a pulsed semiconductor laser 20.
More preferably, pulsed semiconductor laser 20 is operated according to
the Standard for MILES Communication Code Structure.
Preferably, modular platform 13 can be transferred in situ from one
predator 18 to another predator 18 for ready replacement, maintenance and the
like.
Preferably, predator platform 18 includes a source of radar radiation 22
for creating radar radiation and simulating radars of aircraft, weapon systems
and missiles.
More preferably, radar radiation source 22 is within the L (Lima), C
(Charlie), X and Ku frequencies commonly used in military radars.
More preferably, radar radiation source 22 further simulates other
characteristics of common radars like type of scan and Pulse Repetition
Frequency (PRF).
Preferably, predator platform 18 further includes a predator processor 23
to activate and deactivate first illumination source 12 according to the
simulation framework and the predetermined flight envelope in which combat
commences and takes place.
Preferably, predator 18 is capable of performing any defensive or
offensive procedures according to survivability and tactical priorities
determined by predator processor 23.
Preferably, the system is mounted on weapon platforms as shown in
Figure 1 and Figure 2. Typically, the system will be mounted on model aircraft.
First radiation source 12 is mounted on predator model 18. Predator model 18
is maneuvered by the user such that target 14 is within the line of sight of first
radiation source 12. Target illumination detector 16 is suitably mounted on
target 14 to illumination from predator 18. Target detector 16 is also connected
to a weapon system 24 mounted on target 14.
Preferably, weapon system 24 is either the integral weapon system of
target 14 or a dedicated weapon system capable of damaging and destroying
predator 18. Preferably, after target detector 16 detects illumination, target
detector 16 transmits a signal to weapon system 24 where a firing solution upon
predator 18 is processed on a weapon system processor 26.
Thereafter and in accordance with the settings of weapon system 24,
simulated fire is performed on predator 18, utilizing coherent electromagnetic
radiation or other illumination apparatus. Alternatively, actual live fire
commences against predator 18 until predator 18 is neutralized. Namely,
predator 18 is incapacitated\>r cannot pose a real or simulated "threat" to target
14.
Preferably, remote control 10 includes a remote control transceiver 28
for sending signals from remote control 10 by sending a signal along the path,
generally indicated as "χ", from transceiver 28 to predator 18.
Preferably, target 14 features a plurality of target illumination detectors
16.
Typically, target 14 features a target indicator 30 indicating when target
detectors 16 detect illumination.
Alternatively, target indicator 30 features a display 32 for displaying the
number of times in which target detectors 16 detects an illumination.
Optionally, a predator illumination detector 34 is suitably mounted to
receive reflected radiation from target 14 along path "β". Predator illumination
detector 34 is also connected to a transmitter 36 mounted on predator 18.
Predator transmitter 36 transmits a signal to remote control 10, after
illumination "fired" by illumination source 12 at target 14 is reflected from
target 14 and returns to predator 18, where predator detector 34 detects
illumination.
Due to the fact that predator 18 is capable of illuminating target 14 with
a wide variety of illumination types, which simulate a plurality of weapon
systems and weapon guidance systems, and the fact that predator 18 is
unmanned, live fire retaliatory procedures are facilitated against predator 18
without risking injury or death of the user controlling predator 18.
Furthermore, the unique combination of illumination apparatus on a
model predator 18 facilitates multiple dry fire runs culminating with a live fire
run in a single session.
Further still, the unique combination of illumination apparatus on a
model predator 18 facilitates damaging or destroying predator 18 while
incurring significantly reduced costs by using a model predator UAV 18.
Preferably, first illumination source 12 is mounted on predator model 18
such that target 14 is within the line of sight of predator 18 and first
, illumination source 12. Radiation detector 34 is suitably mounted to receive
reflected illumination from target 14 along path "β". Predator transmitter 36
transmits a signal to remote control transceiver 28, after illumination radiation
is "fired" by illumination source 12 at target 14, contacting target 14 and
returned to predator detector 34, where it is duly detected by predator detector
34.
Preferably, target 14 also features target detectors 16 connected to a
detection processor 38, which processes the signal from detectors 16 and
converts them to an amplified digital signal for identification of weapon system
and threat.
Preferably, processor 38 determines which sensor 16 detects the
strongest illumination level and generates a directional vector to illumination
source 12 for displaying on display 32, such that in accordance with the
settings of weapon system 24, target 14 can commence simulated fire on
predator 18, utilizing coherent electromagnetic radiation or other illumination
apparatus.
Alternatively, actual live fire commences against predator 18 until
predator 18 is neutralized. Namely, predator 18 is incapacitated or cannot pose
a real or simulated "threat" to target 14.
Preferably, display 32 provides real-time display for positioning laser 20
and radar source 22, thereby warning the operators of weapon system 24 of the
existence, the type, the characteristics and the direction of the detected laser 20
and radar source 22. Locating of laser 20 is performed according to which
• detector 16 detects the strongest illumination level and the variance between
illumination levels detected by detectors 16, as well as the margin between
illumination detection by detectors 16.
Furthermore, the wavelength, coding and modulation of the illumination
detected by detectors 16 are displayed on display 32.
Alternatively, display 32 displays the predetermined coding of the
simulated weapon system and the type of weapon system.
Preferably, display 32 displays the type of laser 20 and radar source 22.
By way of example only, a short-pulse laser having a frequency of substantially
less than 2.0 Hz, will be displayed on display 32 as a range finder used by the
armed forces for measuring distances and providing positioning readings for
long-range weapons. By way of example only, conical X-band scanning pattern
radars detected by detectors 16 will be displayed either as fire control radars or
as a missile, depending on the frequency, wavelength and PRF detected. A
pulse laser having a frequency between 2-20 Hz, will be displayed on display
32 as a laser target designator.
Alternatively, indicator 30 includes a score board 40 for scoring the
number of times target detectors 16 detected illumination as well as the history
of illumination types, characteristics, the method in which the "threat" was
addressed and the success rates of the tactics used against laser 20 and radar
source 22.
Although the present invention has been described in terms of ship, tank
and aircraft platforms, it will be appreciated that the present invention may be
used with any combination or plurality of tanks, submarines or any platform
capable of using a weapon system as well as any weapon system.
Figure 2 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the system according to
the present invention, wherein a first remote control 10, operated by a user,
activates a first illumination source 12.
After the user has maneuvered a modular platform 13, on which first
illumination source 12 is mounted, into a firing position. First remote control
10 sends a signal along a path, generally indicated as "χ", to first illumination
source 12. The illuminating radiation, emitted by first illumination source 12,
travels along a path generally indicated as "α ", and contacts a target 14, which
can be substantially illuminated by first illumination source 12.
Like above, a target illumination detector 16, situated on target 14 and
responsive to illumination from first illumination source 12, picks up
illumination radiation illuminating target 14.
Here as well, first radiation source 12 is preferably mounted on a
modular platform 13. Preferably, illumination source 12 includes a laser 20.
Preferably, laser 20 is a pulsed semiconductor laser 20.
More preferably, pulsed semiconductor laser 20 is operated according to
the Standard for MILES Communication Code Structure or similar weapon
simulation systems.
Preferably, first illumination source 12 includes a source of radar
radiation source 22 for creating radar radiation and simulating radars of
aircraft, weapon systems and missiles.
Preferably, illumination source 12 includes a predator processor 23 to
activate and deactivate first illumination source 12 according to the simulation
framework and the predetermined flight envelope in which combat commences
and takes place. Furthermore, illumination source 12 preferably also includes
radar radiation source 22, laser 20 and predator processor 23 as well as modular
platform 13 being readily transferable from one predator 18 to any other
predator 18.
Preferably, predator 18 is capable of performing any defensive or
offensive procedures according to survivability and tactical priorities
determined by predator processor 23.
Preferably, illumination source 12 can be independently aligned towards
target 14, irrespective of the alignment of target 14 in relation to predator 18.
More preferably, radar radiation 22 is within the L (Lima), C (Charlie),
X and Ku frequencies commonly used in military radars.
More preferably, radar radiation 22 further simulates other
characteristics of common1 radars like type of scan, PRF and any other
characteristics.
Typically, the system of the present invention will be mounted on a
model aircraft. First illumination source 12 is mounted on modular platform 13.
Modular platform 13 is maneuvered and displaced by the user such that target
14 is within the line of sight of first illumination source 12, irrespective of the
alignment between predator 18 and target 14-. Target illumination detector 16 is
suitably mounted on target 14 to illumination from predator 18. Target detector
16 is also connected to a weapon system 24 mounted on target 14.
Preferably, weapon system 24 is either the integral weapon system of
target 14 or a dedicated weapon system capable of damaging and destroying
predator 18. Preferably, after target detector 16 detects illumination, target
detector 16 transmits a signal to weapon system 24 where a firing solution upon
predator 18 is processed on a weapon system processor 26.
Thereafter and in accordance with the settings of weapon system 24,
simulated fire is performed on predator 18, utilizing coherent electromagnetic
radiation or other illumination apparatus. Alternatively, actual live fire
commences against predator 18 until predator 18 is neutralized. Namely,
predator 18 is incapacitated or cannot pose a real or simulated "threat" to target
14.
Preferably, remote control 10 includes a remote control transceiver 28
for sending signals to first illumination source 12 by sending a signal along the
path, generally indicated as "χ", to first illumination source 12.
More preferably, remote control 10 includes a first laser-activating
switch 42 for predator 18 to illuminate target 14 with radiation of a first type of
laser system. Furthermore, remote control 10 preferably includes a second
laser-activating switch 44 for predator 18 to illuminate target 14 with radiation
of a second type of laser system. Thus, the user, which controls predator 18
with remote control 10, can readily select the type of illumination desired for
any simulation.
Preferably, remote control 10 also includes a first radar radiation-
activating switch 46 for predator 18 to illuminate target 14 with a radiation of a
first type of radar system. Furthermore, remote control 10 also includes a
second radar radiation-activating switch 48 for predator 18 to illuminate target
14 with a radiation of a second type of radar system.
Preferably, target 14 features a plurality of target illumination detectors
16.
Preferably target 14 is in communication with a remote station 50, for
reporting and analyzing any illumination detected by detectors 16. Typically,
remote station 50 features a receiver 52 and a target indicator 54 indicating
when target detectors 16 detect illumination.
Alternatively, target indicator 54 features a display 56 for displaying the
number of times in which target detectors 16 detects an illumination and type
and characteristics of the illumination detected by detectors 16.
Due to the fact that predator 18 has the capability of illuminating target
14 with a wide variety of illumination types, which simulate a plurality of
weapon systems and weaporv guidance systems, and the fact that predator 18 is
an unmanned, live fire retaliatory procedures are facilitated against predator 18
without risking injury or death of the user controlling predator 18.
Furthermore, the unique combination of illumination apparatus on a
model predator 18 facilitates multiple dry fire runs culminating with a live fire
run in a single session.
Further still, the unique combination of illumination apparatus on a
model predator 18 facilitates damaging or destroying predator 18 while
significantly reducing costs by using a model predator UAV 18.
Preferably, first illumination source 12 is mounted on predator model 18
such that target 14 is within the line of sight of modular platform 13 and first
illumination source 12. Radiation detector 34 is suitably mounted on predator
18 for receiving reflected illumination from target 14 along path "β". Predator
transmitter 36 transmits a signal to remote control 10, after illumination
radiation is "fired" by illumination source 12 at target 14, contacting target 14
and returned to predator detector 34, where it is duly detected by predator
detector 34.
Like above, target 14 also features target detectors 16 connected to a
detection processor 38 which processes signals from detectors 16 and converts
them to amplified digital signals for identification of weapon systems and
threats.
Processor 38 determines which sensor 16 detects the strongest
illumination level and generates a directional vector to illumination source 12
for displaying on display 56, such that in accordance with the settings of
weapon system 24, target 14 can commence simulated fire on predator 18,
utilizing coherent electromagnetic radiation or other illumination apparatus.
Alternatively, actual live fire commences against predator 18 until
predator 18 is neutralized. Namely, predator 18 is incapacitated or cannot pose
a real or simulated "threat" to target 14.
Preferably, display 56 provides real-time display for positioning
illumination source 12 and warning the operators of weapon system 24 of the
existence, the type and the direction of the detected illumination source 12
based upon which detector 16 detects the strongest illumination level an the
variance between illumination levels detected by detectors 16, as well as the
margin between illumination detection by detectors 16 and the wave length of
the illumination detected.
Preferably, display 56 displays the type of illumination source 12. By
way of example only, a short-pulse laser having a frequency of substantially
less than 2.0 Hz, will be displayed on display 56 as a range finder used by the
armed forces for measuring distances and providing positioning readings for
long-range weapons. By way of example only, conical X-band scanning pattern
radars detected by detectors 16 will be displayed either as fire control radars or
as a missile, depending on the frequency and PRF detected. A pulse laser
having a frequency of at least than 2.0 Hz, fired will be displayed on display 56
as a laser range finder.
Alternatively, target 14 includes a score board 40 for scoring the number
of times target detectors lfr detected illumination as well as the history of
illumination types, the method in which the "threat" was addressed and the
success rates of the tactics used against illumination source 12.
Although the present invention has been described in terms of ship, tank
and aircraft platforms, it will be appreciated that the present invention may be
used with any combination or plurality of tanks, submarines or any platform
capable of using a weapon system as well as any weapon system.
Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of preferred components of the system
of the present invention illustrating a preferred basic embodiment of the
system.
A first remote control 10, operated by a user, activates a first
illumination source 12. A target 14 including an illumination detector 16,
responsive to illumination from first illumination source 12, picks up
illumination radiation illuminating target 14.
Preferably, predator 18 includes a receiver 58 including an amplifier 60
for amplifying signals from remote control transceiver 28 and a processor 62
for processing signals from remote control 10.
Preferably, illumination source 12 includes a first laser modulator 64 for
producing laser radiation of a first laser system. Preferably, first illumination
source 12 includes a second laser modulator 66 for producing laser radiation of
a second laser system. More preferably, first laser modulator 64 is a variable
laser modulator for producing laser radiation of a plurality of laser systems.
Preferably, illumination source 12 includes a first frequency generator
68 for producing radar radiation of a first radar system. Preferably, first
illumination source 12 includes a second frequency generator 70 for producing
radar radiation of a second radar system. More preferably, first frequency
generator 68 is a variable frequency generator for producing radar radiation of
a plurality of radar systems.
An antenna 72 for illuminating target 14 with radar radiation is
electronically attached and responsive to first frequency generator 68 and
second frequency generator 70.
A laser source 74 for illuminating target 14 with laser radiation is
electronically attached and responsive to first laser modulator 64 and second
laser modulator 66. Additionally, a tunable laser 75 is electronically attached to
laser modulator 64 for illuminating target 14 with illumination having a variety
of wavelengths.
Target 14 includes a first optical illumination detector 76 suitably
mounted on target 14 to detect illumination. Preferably target 14 also includes a
radar radiation detector 78 for detecting radar radiation.
A laser radiation amplifier 80 is electronically connected to a threat
processor 82 for analysis of the type and degree of threat of the laser system
detected.
Preferably, illumination detector 76 also transmits any illumination
detected to remote station 50 for threat analysis. Also preferably, radar
radiation detector 78 also transmits any radar radiation detected to remote
station 50.
Thus, training simulations of a wide variety are facilitated including, but
not limited to, regular training, two sided training and MILES and weapon
simulation system simulations of any type.
A radar radiation amplifier 84 is also electronically connected to threat
processor 82 for analysis of the type and degree of threat of the radar system
detected.
Preferably, threat processor 82 is also electronically connected to a
warning system 86 for warning on any threats by any system detected.
Preferably, warning system 86 includes an alarm and warning display 88 for
alerting occupants of target 14 to the threats.
Upon a threat being detected by optical detector 76 and radar detector 78
a weapon system 24 mounted on target 14 is used to neutralize any threats
posed by illumination source 12. Preferably, weapon system 24 is either the
integral weapon system of target 14 or a dedicated weapon system capable of
damaging and destroying any illumination system. Preferably, after target
detector 16 detects illumination, target detector 16 transmits a signal to weapon
system 24 where a firing solution upon illumination source 12 is processed on
threat processor 82.
Thereafter and in accordance with the settings of weapon system 24,
simulated fire is performed on illumination source 12, utilizing coherent
electromagnetic radiation or other illumination apparatus. Alternatively, actual
live fire commences against illumination source 12 until illumination source 12
is neutralized. Namely, illumination source 12 is incapacitated or cannot pose a
real or simulated "threat" to target 14.
Preferably, remote control 10 includes a remote control transceiver 28
for sending signals to first illumination source 12 by sending a signal along the
path, generally indicated as "χ", to first illumination source 12.
More preferably, remote control 10 includes a first laser-activating
switch 42 for illumination source 12 to illuminate target 14 with radiation of a
first type of laser system. Furthermore, remote control 10 preferably includes a
second laser-activating switch 44 for illumination source 12 to illuminate target
14 with radiation of a second type of laser system.
Preferably, remote control 10 also includes a first radar radiation-
activating switch 46 for illumination source 12 to illuminate target 14 with a
radiation of a first type of radar system. Furthermore, remote control 10 also
includes a second radar radiation-activating switch 48 for illumination source
12 to illuminate target 14 with a radiation of a second type of radar system.
Preferably, target 14 features a plurality of target illumination detectors
16.
Preferably for the purpose of for reporting and analyzing any
illumination detected by detectors 16, a target transmitter 90 is situated on
target 14 and is in communication with a remote station 50. Typically, remote
station 50 features a receiver 52 and a target indicator 54 indicating when target
detectors 16 detect illumination.
Alternatively, target indicator 54 features a display 56 for displaying the
number of times in which target detectors 16 detects an illumination.
Due to the fact that 411umination source 12 is capable of illuminating
target 14 with a wide variety of illumination types, which simulate a plurality
of weapon systems, MILES and other simulation systems and weapon guidance
systems, and the fact that illumination source 12 is mounted, by way of
example only, on an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), live fire retaliatory
procedures are facilitated against illumination source 12 without risking injury
or death of the user controlling illumination s.ource 12.
Furthermore, the unique combination of illumination apparatus on a
model facilitates multiple dry fire runs culminating with a live fire run in a
single session.
Preferably, display 56 provides real-time display for positioning
illumination source 12 and warning the operators of weapon system 24 of the
existence, the type and the direction of the detected illumination source 12
based upon which detector 16 detects the strongest illumination level an the
variance between illumination levels detected by detectors 16, as well as the
margin between illumination detection by detectors 16. Furthermore, the
wavelength, coding and modulation of the illumination detected by detectors 16
are displayed on display 56.
Preferably, display 56 displays the type of illumination source 12. By
way of example only, a short-pulse laser having a frequency of substantially
less than 2.0 Hz, will be displayed on display 56 as a range finder used by the
armed forces for measuring distances and providing positioning readings for
long-range weapons. By way of example only, conical X-band scanning pattern
radars detected by detectors 16 will be displayed either as fire control radars or
as a missile, depending on the frequency and PRF detected. A pulse laser
having a frequency of between 2-20 Hz, will be displayed on display 56 as a
laser target designator.
Alternatively, display 56 includes a target score board 92 for scoring the
number of times target detectors 16 detected illumination as well as the history
of illumination types, the method in which the "threat" was addressed and the
success rates of the tactics used against illumination source 12.
Thus, predator 18 can be used as a decoy in actual battles due to
predator 18 being capable of illuminating a plurality of targets 14 with
illumination of a plurality of weapon systems. Thus, defensive counter-
measures will be exploited against predator 18, thereby creating a valuable
offensive tool for any armed force.
Although the present invention has been described in terms of ship, tank
and aircraft platforms, it will be appreciated that the present invention may be
used with any combination or plurality of tanks, submarines or any platform
capable of using a weapon system or any weapon system.
It will be appreciated that the above descriptions are intended only to
serve as examples, and that many other embodiments are possible within the
spirit and the scope of the present invention.