US20040198336A1 - Wireless controlled devices for a weapon and wireless control thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

A system related to weapon mounted auxiliary devices that can be operated by wireless remote control, and a remote controller by which an operator can operate the auxiliary devices remotely by wireless control. This includes all means of remote control of the auxiliary devices to include but not be limited to radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR) energy, all other wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum, and acoustic, pressure, or sound waves. Control of the auxiliary devices can range from simple activation to wireless control of all auxiliary device controls and adjustments. This can also include a single remote control device that can operate one or more weapon mounted auxiliary devices.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY
• This application claims priority under 35 USC §119(e) to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 60/460,935, filed on Apr. 7, 2003, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD
• This invention relates to weapon mounted auxiliary devices, and more particularly to control of such auxiliary devices.[0002]
BACKGROUND
• There has been a dramatic increase in the number and types of auxiliary weapon mounted devices in military, law enforcement and consumer applications. These include passive devices such as night vision image intensifier devices, thermal imaging systems, and day optics; and active devices such as visible laser aiming devices, infrared laser aiming devices, infrared illuminators, laser range finders, and visible illuminators (e.g., weapon-mounted flashlights). All of these devices can generally be referred to as auxiliary devices. To date these auxiliary devices have been operated by a combination of switches and controls mounted on the devices themselves and by cable switches. The cable switches enable the operator to operate the weapon mounted device, while holding the weapon in a normal firing position. The cable switches arrangement is typically more convenient than the device's integral switches. Cable switches, however, can have cables that are cumbersome. If not routed properly, the cables can interfere with operation of the weapon, snag on objects or can be melted or otherwise damaged if they come into contact with hot or mechanically moving parts of the weapon. This can be exacerbated by the fact that individual weapon mounted auxiliary devices are produced for use on multiple weapon systems and are normally supplied with just a single remote cable switch with a fixed cable length. As a result, if the length of the cable is appropriate for a large weapon it is usually so long as to require unique routing in order not to have excessive slack and become a snag hazard when mounted on a smaller weapon. If the cable length is suitable for use on a small weapon, it is normally too short for use on a large weapon necessitating the operator to obtain a new cable switch. Further complicating the situation is that different operators mount their auxiliary devices in different positions on the weapon and desire to have the activation switch in unique positions based on individual shooting style. This results in no one cable length being optimal in all or even most situations.[0003]
• This situation can be further complicated with multiple auxiliary devices being mounted on a single weapon at one time. As the quantity of auxiliary devices on a weapon increases, the number of cable switches multiplies causing increased cable management problems and adding appreciable weight, reliability issues, and snag hazards.[0004]
SUMMARY
• In one aspect, a wireless control system includes an auxiliary device configured to be mounted on a weapon and a remote control device that wirelessly controls the auxiliary device. In another aspect, the wireless control system includes the weapon. In yet another aspect, the auxiliary device includes a light generating device. The light generating device includes an enclosure, a power source, a light source, a receiver, and a device function controller. The enclosure is configured to be mounted on a weapon. The receiver is in electrical communication with the power source, and the receiver is configured to receive a first wireless signal. The device function controller is in electrical communication with the power source, the receiver, and the light source. The device function controller is configured to control the light source based on the first wireless signal.[0005]
• Other embodiments including any of the aspects above may also include one or more of the following features:[0006]
• The wireless control system can include a receiver and a transmitter. The receiver and transmitter communicate with each other using radio frequency, infrared waves, a sound wave, a pressure wave, or other wireless techniques. The receiver may also be sensitive to a unique wavelength, pulse pattern, or signal strength. The auxiliary device and/or the remote control device can include an encoder configured to encode the first wireless signal. The auxiliary device and/or the remote control device can include a decoder configured to decode the first wireless signal. There can also be a second wireless signal, for example, transmitted by a transmitter. The second wireless signal can include status information of the remote control device and/or the auxiliary device.[0007]
• The remote control device can be matched to the auxiliary device. A first key module is associated with the auxiliary device and a second key module is associated with the remote control device and communicates with the first key module. In certain embodiments, the first key module is a key generation module and the second key module is a key decoder module or vice versa. In other embodiments, the first key module is a key decoder module and the second key module is a key generation module or vice versa. The auxiliary device and/or the remote control device can include a key receiver and a key module, where the key receiver and the key module are cooperating to authenticate wireless signals received from an authorized source. The auxiliary device can include a receiver module to enable the remote control device to control the auxiliary device[0008]
• The remote control device includes a switch configured to control a function of the auxiliary device. Examples of the function include a state of the device (e.g., on/off), brightness level of light, level of sound, or level of power consumption. The remote control device switch can be configured to control a second function of the auxiliary device. The remote control device may be integral, permanently attached, or removably affixed to the weapon. The switch may also control a function of another auxiliary device. The remote control device may include more than one switch and include at least one of the following: a device selection switch, an activation switch, and a control switch. The switch can be a rotary or linear switch, a button, or a joystick.[0009]
• The wireless control system may also include a display. The display may be configured to display a menu to select the weapon mounted auxiliary device or set a mode of operation. The display can be included on the remote control device[0010]
• The auxiliary device and/or the remote control device can include an indicator configured to indicate a status of a power source associated with a transmitter device transmitting a wireless signal to the remote control device and/or the auxiliary device (e.g.. light generating device). The wireless signal can include a portion indicating a status of a power source associated with a transmitter device transmitting the wireless signal to/from the auxiliary device (e.g., the light generating device).[0011]
• In another example, a second transmitter is associated with the auxiliary device, and a second receiver is associated with remote control device. In this example, the auxiliary device can transmit information to the remote control device. The information can include status information and commands. The information may include ready status, operational status, existing operational modes, target, range, azimuth, elevation data, self-diagnostics results, or battery life. The second receiver and second transmitter can communicate with each other using radio frequency, infrared waves, a sound wave, a pressure wave, or other wireless techniques.[0012]
• In another example, the wireless control system includes a cable that is removably coupled to the remote control device or the auxiliary device. The transmitter can be disabled when the cable is engaged, for example, when the cable is coupled to both the remote control device and the auxiliary device. In another example, the wireless control system includes a mode of operation to limit detection. In order to limit detection, low RF power, spread spectrum technology, frequency hopping signals, or burst transmissions are used. The auxiliary device and/or the remote control device can include a watertight enclosure, which in some examples is watertight at depths greater than 50 feet.[0013]
• The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.[0014]
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 is a first weapon having a wireless control system.[0015]
• FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a remote control device and an auxiliary device of the wireless control system.[0016]
• FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a remote control device and an auxiliary device including key modules.[0017]
• FIG. 4 shows an auxiliary device having a wireless control system including a wired mode.[0018]
• FIG. 5 is a second weapon having a wireless control system.[0019]
• FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of a remote control device.[0020]
• FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic illustrations of other examples of remote control devices.[0021]
• FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a wireless control system having a remote control device and one or more auxiliary devices.[0022]
• FIG. 9 shows an example mounting mechanism for an auxiliary device.[0023]
• FIG. 10 shows another example mounting mechanism for an auxiliary device.[0024]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• FIG. 1 illustrates a[0025]wireless control system100 for wireless control of an auxiliary device, for example anilluminator102, mounted on aweapon106.Wireless control system100 includesilluminator102 andremote control device104.Illuminator102 is shown mounted on aweapon106 and includes areceiver108, which in operation receives signals wirelessly fromremote control device104.Remote control device104 includes atransmitter110 and aswitch112. Switch112 can be, for example, any device capable of making or breaking an electric contact. For example, by depressingswitch112, an operator turnstransmitter110 on and off, thereby controllingilluminator102.
• The[0026]weapon106 comprises a weapon frame with rails orgrooves130, located in and extending along at least a portion of the weapon frame, preferably parallel with anaxis134 of the barrel ofweapon106. The weapon frame also includes a slot (or other recess), for example, an elongated transverse slot (not shown), aligned substantially perpendicular to therails130. The slot is located between a trigger guard and the forward most portion of the frame. Theilluminator102, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, also comprises a housing and structural members extending therefrom, e.g., rigidelongated projections138, extending along at least a portion of theilluminator102. In one example, the rigidelongated projections138 comprise tongues configured to be compatible withgrooves130 ofweapon106. For example, the longitudinal tongues ofprojections138 may be spaced and sized such that they fit snugly within thegrooves130, but are capable of being slid therealong. Together, therails130 andprojections138 cooperate to function as a first positioning mechanism.
• The[0027]illuminator102 also includes a projection, e.g., spring-loaded elongated bar142 (FIG. 4). The spring-loadedbar142 is illustrated as being oriented substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal tongues ofprojections138, but other orientations are possible. Preferably, spring-loadedbar142 has a geometry that is complimentary to elongated transverse slot described above. Spring-loadedbar142 has one or more ends146 protruding through an opening formed in a portion of illuminator102 (e.g., an upright extension projecting from the housing). A spring or other biasing mechanism preferably biases bar142 upwardly. In operation, when theilluminator102 is being slid relative to theweapon106, a portion of theweapon106 may overcome the bias force of the spring, until theilluminator102 is at a predetermined position with respect to the weapon, for example when the spring-loadedbar142 is positioned in alignment with the slot, whereupon, the spring causes thebar142 to project into slot to fix theilluminator102 in the predetermined position relative to theweapon106. The engagement ofbar142 and the slot forms a second positioning mechanism and securesilluminator102 ontoweapon106 to prevent inadvertent removal or misalignment ofilluminator102 due to external influences such as recoil. The first and second positioning mechanisms, and other alternatives, are described in more detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,574,901, titled “Auxiliary Device for a Weapon and Attachment Thereof,” issued on Feb. 13, 2001, and incorporated herein by reference.
• FIG. 2 illustrates[0028]system100 depictingilluminator102 andremote control device104 in more detail. In addition to switch112 andtransmitter110,remote control device104 includes anencoder202 and apower source822. As illustrated, in addition toreceiver108,illuminator102 also includes adecoder204, adevice function controller206, apower source822, and alight source820. Further, theilluminator102 may have a manual switch to control the illuminator without theremote control device104. When an operator presses or actuatesswitch112,encoder202 encodes the signal and sends the encoded signal totransmitter110, for example a radio frequency (RF) transmitter (e.g., 10 MHz-1 GHz).Remote control device104 communicates withilluminator102 by sendingsignals210 fromtransmitter110 toreceiver108.Receiver108 receivessignal210 and sends the signal todecoder204, which decodes the signal.Decoder204 sends a decoded signal todevice function controller206 allowing wireless control ofilluminator102. For example,device function controller206 can be a relay causinglight source820 to turn off and on depending on the state of the relay. Whilesystem100 may use an RF signal for wireless communication, infrared waves, sound waves, pressure waves, and the like can also be used to transmit a signal. Due to the possibility of adverse environmental conditions in whichsystem100 may be used, the remote control device and theilluminator102 may be housed in a watertight enclosure.
• In one example, communication between[0029]remote control device104 and theilluminator102 is sufficiently unique so that signals from unintendedremote control devices104 do not affect other unintended auxiliary devices on an individual operator's weapon or a nearby operator's weapon. For example, if two soldiers are near each other, the first soldier does not want hisilluminator102 to activate in response to a signal from the second soldier'sremote control device104. In some examples, the techniques described herein to make an auxiliary device unique to aremote control device104 can be used for a system with a master remote control device that individually controls a plurality of auxiliary devices.
• The uniqueness between[0030]remote control device104 andilluminator102 can be accomplished in several ways. One such way is to provide a matched set including aremote control device104 and anilluminator102. For example, a manufacturer can produce aremote control device104 and anilluminator device102 as a matched set to operate at a unique frequency or with a unique device code that prefaces the code directing a particular operation ofilluminator102.
• FIG. 3 illustrates another way to obtain uniqueness between the[0031]remote control device104 andilluminator102.Remote control device104 includes a key module302, a key transmitter304, asynchronization counter306, and aunique device code308. Similarly,illuminator102 includes a key module310, akey receiver312, asynchronization counter314, and a memory316. In this example, key module302 is a key generation module and key module310 is a key decoding module. Upon entering a keying mode, a key transmitter304 inremote control device104 transmits asignal320 to establish the unique frequency orunique device code308 withilluminator102.Illuminator102 receives the key and key module310 decodes the key.Illuminator102 stores the decoded device code in memory316. After the initial keying,remote control device104 transmits the code for the auxiliary device and a key from thesynchronization counter306 on the next transmission. In this fashion, the keying code is different for each use because after eachuse synchronization counter306 andsynchronization counter314 each update the key. In this example,illuminator102 only responds to a signal with the correct key. While in this example, key module302 inremote control device104 is a key generation module and key module310 inilluminator102 is a key decoding module, the modules can be switched such that key module302 is a key decoding module and key module310 is a key generating module. Such an implementation can be advantageous for example, when illuminator102 transmits signals toremote control device104, as described in more detail below.
• Keying allows an operator to match illuminator[0032]102 toremote control device104. In a case whereremote control device104 has not been used withilluminator102,remote control device104 initially transmits a unique code toilluminator102. For example, the code may consist of the binary pattern11001.Illuminator102 receives this unique code (11001) and stores the code in memory316.Illuminator102 responds to a signal if the signal includes this unique code.Remote control device104 also sends a number fromsynchronization counter306. For example,synchronization counter306 sends the number284 toilluminator102 andupdates synchronization counter306 to285 (i.e., increments by one).Illuminator102 stores the received number (284) in memory316 and updates the synchronization counter to285. On subsequent transmissions,remote control device104 sends a signal toilluminator102 that includes the unique code (11001) and the updated synchronization count (285). Key-module310 inilluminator102 confirms the unique code and the correct synchronization count. Upon confirmation of the correct code and count,illuminator102 responds to control signal320 fromremote control device104. Although this example follows a simple algorithm of incrementing thecounters306 and314 by one, more sophisticated algorithms can be used.
• Using a unique keying and rolling encryption algorithm eliminates unwanted activation of[0033]illuminator102 by a different or other operator'sremote control device104. Also, by incorporating a provision for keying unique frequency or unique pulse, a particularremote control device104 can be used to control different devices at different times. This is advantageous because new auxiliary devices can be issued to an operator without concern for the uniqueremote control device104 the operator may have, and if aremote control device104 is lost or becomes unserviceable, a replacement can be issued with out concern for the specific auxiliary devices the operator possesses. The operator only needs to key theilluminator102 with theremote control device104.
• FIG. 4 illustrates a wired communication mode of operation including a[0034]remote control device104 with acontrol switch112 andtransmitter110, and anilluminator102, includingreceiver108 and aport402. Some situations do not allow the use of wireless communication, for example in combat when an enemy might detect wireless transmissions, thus, compromising the location of the operator. For such instances where an operator desires wired communication,illuminator102 includescommunication port402. Acable404 connectsilluminator102 andremote control device104. Whencommunication port402 is engaged (i.e.cable404 is inserted)system100 disableswireless transmitter110 andilluminator102 receives control signals throughcable404. When a user desires wireless control ofilluminator102,cable404 can be removed.
• FIG. 5 illustrates a[0035]control system800 for remote control of anilluminator102 and anauxiliary device120, for example a laser, mounted on aweapon106A. Thecontrol system800 may include aremote control device104, theilluminator102, and theauxiliary device120. In one embodiment, theremote control device104 communicates to theilluminator102 and theauxiliary device120 without a cable and in another embodiment theremote control device104 communicates to theilluminator102 and theauxiliary device120 with a cable (not shown). Theilluminator102 may be mounted on theweapon106A and includes areceiver108, which in operation receives signals wirelessly fromremote control device104 allowing control ofilluminator102 by theremote control device104.Remote control device104 includes atransmitter110, afirst switch112A, and asecond switch112B. For example, by depressingswitch112A, an operator may cause thetransmitter110 to send asignal210A (see FIG. 8) to thereceiver108 in theilluminator102, causinglight source820 to turn on or off. By depressingswitch112B, the operator may cause thetransmitter110 to send asignal210B to thereceiver122 in theauxiliary device120 tocontrollable device824.Controllable device824 may be a visible laser aiming devices, infrared laser aiming devices, infrared illuminators, laser range finders, visible illuminators, range finder or camera, for example a CCD or a thermal imager. One or more auxiliary devices, for example a visible illuminator and a visible laser aiming device, may be housed in a common enclosure. Theilluminator102,auxiliary device120, and theremote control device104 may each be powered by apower source822, for example a battery. The operator can secure theremote control device104 to the weapon in a convenient location with mechanical fasteners, for example hook and loop type fasteners, adhesive, or both.
• A continuous actuation of[0036]switch112A may causetransmitter110 to transmit asignal210A to thereceiver108 in theilluminator102 causing thelight source820 to turn on and stay on as long as theswitch112A is actuated and release of theswitch112A may cause thelight source820 to turn off. In one embodiment, thetransmitter110 transmits continuously while the switch is actuated and in another embodiment, thetransmitter110 transmits a first signal when the switch is actuated and a second signal when the switch is released. The first signal and the second signal may be the same. A controller in theilluminator102 may latch the light source on when it receives the first signal and unlatch the light source when it receive the second signal. Likewise, a continuous actuation ofswitches112B may causetransmitter110 to transmit asignal210B to thereceiver122 in theauxiliary device120 causing it to respond appropriately. For example, ifauxiliary device120 is a laser, continuous actuation ofswitch112B can cause the laser to turn on and stay on as long as theswitch112B is actuated and release of theswitch112B may cause the laser to turn off. Alternatively, a single actuation ofswitch112A may cause thelight source820 to latch on and a subsequent actuation ofswitch112A may cause thelight source820 to turn off. Likewise, a single actuation ofswitch112B may causedevice824 to latch on and a subsequent actuation ofswitch112A may causedevice824 to turn off.
• Alternatively, one or more actuations of[0037]switch112A or112B within a defined time period, for example two actuations within 50 msec, may cause thelight source820 ordevice824 to latch on and a subsequent actuation ofswitch112A or112B may cause thelight source820 ordevice824 to turn off.
• FIGS. 6, 7A, and[0038]7B illustrate examples where multiple switches onremote control device104 control multiple functions ofilluminator102, as well as multiple functions of multiple other auxiliary devices. In the case of controlling multiple functions of aparticular illuminator102,illuminator102 has areceiver108 capable of detecting and differentiating signals having, for example, different wavelengths, different pulse codes, or other uniquely coded signals. While in FIGS. 1-4,remote control device104 includes asingle switch112 andtransmitter110,remote control device104 may include more than oneswitch112, as shown in FIGS. 5, 6 and7. In such a case, activation of each switch results in transmission of a unique signal. The signals can be unique in terms of wavelength, pulse pattern or other means of signal coding.
• In the case of a[0039]remote control device104 controlling multiple auxiliary devices, the auxiliary devices are equipped withreceivers108 receptive to unique wavelengths, unique pulse patterns, or other unique signal coding. In such case, activation of a particular switch on the remote control unit results in activation of a unique auxiliary device.
• For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6[0040]remote control device104 includes arotary switch602. A user selects a particular auxiliary device using arotary switch602. In this example, the user has selected “B” as indicated by the position ofrotary switch602.Remote control device104 also includes switches604,606, and608. These switches control the particular functions of the selected auxiliary device. These functions may include for example the state of the device, brightness of light, level of sound, and level of power consumption.
• For an illustrative example, device “B” is an auxiliary light with three levels: off; low; and high. The user selects the particular auxiliary light by turning[0041]rotary switch602 to position B. Each button604,606, and608 controls a level of the selected device. Button604 turns the light off, button606 turns the light on low, and button608 turns the light on high. If the user wants to turn the light on low, the user setsrotary switch602 to position B and presses button604. These actions cause only auxiliary device “B” to turn on to a low level.
• In another example, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B,[0042]remote control104 includes a menu based selection system that appears on adisplay702 and responds to user input. In FIG. 7A, the user selects a desired auxiliary device by pressingbutton704,706, or708. For example, if the user desires to control a light-generating unit, the user selects choice A by pressing button704. A second menu, as shown in FIG. 7B, allows the user to select the desired operation of the auxiliary device. For example, if the user desires to turn the light on low, the user selects choice A by pressing button704.
• The examples above[0043]show switch112 to be either a button or a rotary switch, but switch112 can also be a joystick type control switch used to select and then scroll through a series of menus on a display to enable the operator to preset controls and performance parameters as well as a device or devices to be activated. Pressing one of a limited number of buttons on the remote control device activates each particular auxiliary device in a prescribed fashion, or pressing a single button can cause a series of events to occur by one or a multitude of auxiliary devices. Alternatively, thedisplay702 may be touch sensitive and allow the operator to make selections directly on the display.
• In the preceding examples, the[0044]remote control device104 transmits asignal210 to theilluminator102 to control the operation ofilluminator102. FIG. 8 illustrates a two-way communicationwireless control system800 including aremote control device104, anilluminator102, and anauxiliary device120 that may be mounted to a weapon. Theremote control device104 transmits and receives signals or information to theilluminator102 and theauxiliary device120.Illuminator102 includes both areceiver108 and atransmitter810,auxiliary device120 includes both areceiver122 and atransmitter810, andremote control device104 includes atransmitter110 and areceiver802. Alternatively, the receiver and transmitter of any of the devices (e.g.,illuminator102,remote control device104, and/or auxiliary device120) may be combined into a transceiver or a microcontroller, for example a model CC1010 microcontroller from Chipcon of Norway.Illuminator102 may also include adecoder204, adevice function controller206, adevice status module814, anencoder812, apower source822, for example a battery, an indicator828 (e.g., a light emitting diode (LED) or an audible sound generator), and alight source820 capable of generating visible or invisible light. An LED may be capable of communicating a visual signal to an operator in one or more colors.Auxiliary device120 may also include adecoder204, adevice function controller206, adevice status module814, anencoder812, apower source822, anindicator828, and acontrollable device824.Remote control device104 may also include afirst switch112A, asecond switch112B, anencoder202, adecoder804, astatus display806, and apower source822.
• [0045]Remote control device104,illuminator102, andauxiliary device120 may utilize key modules in order to assign a switch on theremote control device104 to theilluminator102 or theauxiliary device120. For example,illuminator102 may be assigned to respond to switch112A andauxiliary device120 may be assigned to respond to switch112B, or vice versa.
• The[0046]signal210 may include a family or customer identifier, a serial number, and one or more commands. The family or customer identifier and the serial number may be hard coded at the factory. The family or customer identifier allows illuminators and auxiliary devices to only respond to a particular family or customer remote control. Thesignal210 may utilize rolling codes and encryption to prevent unauthorized control of illuminators and auxiliary devices. Communication between theremote control device104, theilluminator102, and theauxiliary device120 may utilize a lower bandwidth to transmit ready status, operational status, and operational mode and utilize a higher bandwidth to transmit range, azimuth, and elevational data, self-diagnostic results, and video. The data, including the video, may be transmitted to an eyepiece that is part of a day optics and/or night vision optics.
• [0047]Receiver802 inremote control device104 receivesinformation816 fromilluminator102 andauxiliary device120. Such information may include, for example, ready status, operational status, existing operational modes, target range-azimuth-elevation data, results of self-diagnostics, remaining battery life or other information that is beneficial for an operator to have at the remote control device. Such information can also adviseremote control device104 of a particular situation or condition such thatremote control device104 can direct illuminator102 to operate in a particular mode.
• For example,[0048]illuminator102 can be a battery-operated light. An operator activates the light by pressing theswitch112A onremote control device104. When the operator presses switch112A,encoder202 encodes the signal andtransmitter110 sends asignal210A toilluminator102.Receiver108 receivessignal210A,decoder204 decodes thesignal210A, and thedevice function controller206 turns on thelight source820. After using the light for an extended period, the battery may begin to run low. At this point, usingdevice status module814,illuminator102 senses the low battery and encodes asignal using encoder812.Transmitter810 sends asignal816 toreceiver802.Decoder804 decodes signal816 and displays the status on thestatus display806 of theremote control device104. This feedback allows the user to know the battery is low and adjust the usage ofilluminator102 accordingly. Data from theilluminator102 and theauxiliary device120 may be displayed in thestatus display806 in theremote control device104 or an eyepiece that is part of a day optics and/or night vision optics.
• When the output voltage of the[0049]power source822 in theremote control device104 drops below a predetermined value, thetransmitter110 can send a “low battery” signal to theilluminator102 and/or theauxiliary device120. The “low battery” condition may be sensed by a suitable circuit. The “low battery” signal can be communicated, visually or audibly, to the operator through theindicator828. Theindicator828 may be caused to stay on continuously, blink, or change color, or make an audible tone to communicate the “low battery” condition to the operator. Alternatively, the “low battery” condition can be communicated to the operator throughindicator828 on theremote control device104. Theindicator828 advantageously enables thewireless control system800 to notify the operator that due to a low power source, thewireless system800 may not be or may become less than fully functional (e.g., actuating a button on theremote device104 may no longer cause a change to the state of the auxiliary device120). This allows the operator to recharge/replace thepower source822 or to switch to manual (e.g., non-wireless) portions of thesystem800 to perform the desired operations.
• In one embodiment, the auxiliary device is a remotely controllable camera. The camera may be mounted on a weapon to allow the operator to survey an area without placing his head in harms way. A remote control device allows the camera to pan, tilt, and zoom. Data from the auxiliary device may be transmitted to a display on the remote control device or an eyepiece that is part of a day optics and/or night vision optics.[0050]
• [0051]Remote control device104 can communicate with a global positioning system (GPS) mounted on an operator/soldier.Remote control device104 can be wired or wireless to the GPS and can be mounted on the operator or on the weapon. The operator can point the laser on a target and transmit distance and angular position (as determined from a compass) from operator's position to assist in determining target's global position. The information can be displayed in day optics and/or night vision optics. Likewise, the GPS unit can communicate target angular position to the operator for ease in target acquisition.
• In other examples, it may be desired that personnel, other than the operator, not detect the wireless signal or other communication between the[0052]remote control device104 and the auxiliary device. For this reason,system100 includes the capability to operate at low RF power levels, use spread spectrum technology, use frequency hopping signals, or use burst transmissions, all of which may reduce the possibility of unwanted detection.
• While the preceding examples have shown[0053]remote control device104 to be separate fromweapon106 to whichilluminator102 is attached, theremote control device104 can be integrated, for example, directly into the rear pistol grip, forward pistol grip, trigger grip and/or upper receiver and lower receiver of the weapon.Remote control device104 can essentially be integrated into any area that is convenient for the operator to accessswitch112 to remotely controlilluminator102.Weapons106 can include both lightweight pistols, rifles, and machine guns, heavier portable weapons, and fixed installation weapons.
• While FIGS. 1-8 are described using an[0054]illuminator102, the wireless control system can be used with other auxiliary devices. For example, passive devices such as night vision image intensifier devices and thermal imaging systems, and active devices such as visible laser aiming devices, infrared laser aiming device, and infrared illuminators can be used.
• FIGS. 9 and 10 show some of the many alternative mounting mechanisms to mount an auxiliary device to a weapon. FIG. 9 shows a mechanism that clamps onto the rails of the weapon. This mechanism is described in more detail in U.S. Pat. No. 5,430,967, titled, Aiming Assistance Device for a Weapon, issued on Jul. 11, 1995, and is incorporated herein by reference. FIG. 10 shows a mechanism that inserts into slots of the weapon. This mechanism is described in more detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,705,038, titled, Mounting Assembly for a Weapon, issued on Mar. 16, 2004, and is incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, the auxiliary device may utilize a mounting mechanism disclosed in military specification (e.g., MIL-STD-1913), a “rail grabber” mounting mechanism, screws, bolts, and/or the like.[0055]
• A number of embodiments of the invention have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.[0056]

Claims (51)

What is claimed is:

1. A wireless control system comprising:

an auxiliary device configured to be mounted on a weapon; and

a remote control device configured to wirelessly control the auxiliary device.

2. The wireless control system according toclaim 1 wherein the remote control device is matched to the auxiliary device.

3. The wireless control system according toclaim 1 wherein the auxiliary device includes a first key module and the remote control device includes a second key module in communication with the first key module.

4. The wireless control system according toclaim 3 wherein the first key module is a key generation module and the second key module is a key decoder module.

5. The wireless control system according toclaim 3 wherein the first key module is a key decoder module and the second key module is a key generation module.

6. The wireless control system according toclaim 1 further comprising a switch connected to the remote control device, the switch controlling a function of the auxiliary device.

7. The wireless control system according toclaim 6 wherein the function of the auxiliary device comprises a state of the auxiliary device, a brightness level of light, a level of sound, or a level of power consumption.

8. The wireless control system according toclaim 6 wherein the switch further controls a second function of a second auxiliary device.

9. The wireless control system according toclaim 6 further comprising

a plurality of switches comprising of at least one of a device selection switch, an activation switch, and a control switch.

10. The wireless control system according toclaim 6 wherein the switch is a rotary switch.

11. The wireless control system according toclaim 6 wherein the switch is a button.

12. The wireless control system according toclaim 6 wherein the switch is a joystick.

13. The wireless control system according toclaim 1 further comprising a display.

14. The wireless control system according toclaim 13 wherein the display is configured to display a menu to select the auxiliary device.

15. The wireless control system according toclaim 13 wherein the display is configured to display a menu to set a mode of operation.

16. The wireless control system according toclaim 1 wherein the remote control device is integral to the weapon.

17. The wireless control system according toclaim 1 wherein,

the auxiliary device further comprises a receiver, and

the remote control device further comprises a transmitter.

18. The wireless control system according toclaim 17 wherein the receiver and the transmitter communicate using radio frequency signals.

19. The wireless control system according toclaim 17 wherein the receiver and the transmitter communicate using infrared waves.

20. The wireless control system according toclaim 17 wherein the receiver and the transmitter communicate using a sound wave.

21. The wireless control system according toclaim 17 wherein the receiver and the transmitter communicate using a pressure wave.

22. The wireless control system according toclaim 17 wherein the receiver responds to a unique wavelength.

23. The wireless control system according toclaim 17 wherein the receiver responds to a unique pulse pattern.

24. The wireless control system according toclaim 17 wherein the receiver responds to a unique signal strength.

25. The wireless control system according toclaim 17 wherein the auxiliary device comprises a transmitter and the remote control device comprises a receiver such that the auxiliary device can transmit information to the remote control device.

26. The wireless control system according toclaim 25 wherein the remote control device transmits and receives the information to and from the auxiliary device.

27. The wireless control system according toclaim 25 wherein the remote control device transmits commands to the auxiliary device and the auxiliary device transmits status information to the remote control device.

28. The wireless control system according toclaim 25 wherein the remote control device further comprises a display configured to display information received from the auxiliary device.

29. The wireless control system according toclaim 25 wherein the information comprises a ready status, an operational status, an existing operational mode, target, range, azimuth, elevation data, self-diagnostics results, a battery life, or real-time video.

30. The wireless control system according toclaim 25 wherein the transmitter in the auxiliary device transmits a confirmation of a received wireless signal to the remote control device.

31. The wireless control system according toclaim 17 further comprising a cable removably coupled to the remote control device or the auxiliary device.

32. The wireless control system according toclaim 31 wherein the transmitter is disabled when the cable is coupled to the remote control device and the auxiliary device.

33. The wireless control system according toclaim 1 further comprising a receiver module coupled to the auxiliary device to enable the remote control device to control the auxiliary device.

34. The wireless control system according toclaim 1 wherein the remote control device includes a mode of operation to limit detection comprising use of at least one of low RF power, spread spectrum technology, frequency hopping signals, and burst transmissions.

35. The wireless control system according toclaim 1 wherein the auxiliary device and the remote control device communicate bidirectionally.

36. The wireless control system according toclaim 1 wherein the auxiliary device further comprises a watertight enclosure.

37. The wireless control system according toclaim 36 wherein the watertight enclosure is configured to be watertight at depths greater than 50 feet.

38. A wireless control system comprising:

a weapon,

an auxiliary device configured to be mounted on the weapon; and

a remote control device configured to wirelessly control the auxiliary device.

39. The system ofclaim 38 wherein the remote control device is integral with the weapon.

40. A light generating device, comprising:

an enclosure configured to be mounted on a weapon, the enclosure enclosing:

a power source;

a light source;

a receiver in electrical communication with the power source, the receiver being configured to receive a first wireless signal; and

a device function controller in electrical communication with the power source, the receiver, and the light source, the device function controller being configured to control the light source based on the first wireless signal.

41. The light generating device ofclaim 40 further comprising a decoder configured to decode the first wireless signal.

42. The light generating device ofclaim 40 further comprising a key receiver and a key module, the key receiver and the key module cooperating to authenticate wireless signals received from an authorized source.

43. The light generating device ofclaim 40 further comprising a transmitter configured to transmit a second wireless signal.

44. The light generating device ofclaim 43 further comprising an encoder configured to encode the second wireless signal.

45. The light generating device ofclaim 43 wherein the second wireless signal includes status information of the light source.

46. The light generating device ofclaim 43 wherein the transmitter transmits a confirmation of the received first wireless signal.

47. The light generating device ofclaim 43 wherein the transmitter and the receiver are configured to communicate bidirectionally with a remote control device.

48. The light generating device according toclaim 40 wherein the enclosure comprises a watertight enclosure.

49. The light generating device according toclaim 40 wherein the enclosure comprises a watertight enclosure configured to be watertight in depths greater than 50 feet.

50. The light generating device according toclaim 40 further comprising an indicator configured to indicate a status of a power source associated with a transmitter device transmitting the first wireless signal to the light generating device.

51. The light generating device according toclaim 40 wherein the first wireless signal comprises a portion indicating a status of a power source associated with a transmitter device transmitting the first wireless signal to the light generating device.

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