US4457715A — Rifle training apparatus

Claim 1

Independent Claim 96 words

Apparatus for training in the use of of a firearm, comprising: a firearm; at least one transducer means positioned relative to the firearm and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the firearm; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the firearm; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the firearm at said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range.

Claim 2

Dependent Claim 96 words

Apparatus for training in the use of of a firearm, comprising: a firearm; at least one transducer means positioned relative to the firearm and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the firearm; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the firearm; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the firearm at said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range.

Claim 3

Dependent Claim 15 words

The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said transducer means is detachably mounted on said firearm.

Claim 4

Dependent Claim 24 words

The apparatus of claim 1 whrein the firearm includes a recess for receiving said transducer means, said transducer means being mounted in said recess.

Claim 5

Dependent Claim 29 words

The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said transducer means comprises a pair of terminals and means for varying the electrical resistance between said terminals in dependence on applied pressure.

Claim 6

Dependent Claim 15 words

The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said resistance-varying means comprises a resiliently deformable, carbon-impregnated core.

Claim 7

Dependent Claim 69 words

The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said display means comprises a representation of said firearm having means for indicating when the pressure applied to the firearm is within said predetermined range, each said indicating means responsive to the signal from an associated transducer means, and each said indicating means located on said representation at a position corresponding to the position of the associated transducer means relative to said firearm.

Claim 8

Dependent Claim 52 words

The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said circuit means comprises: means for defining a range of variation of said transducer signal corresponding to said predetermined optimal range of applied pressure; and means for controlling said display means to provide said indication when said transducer signal is within said defined range of variation.

Claim 9

Dependent Claim 21 words

The apparatus of claim 1 wherein display means further comprises means for indicating when the trigger of said firearm is squeezed.

Claim 10

Dependent Claim 24 words

The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a target and means for determining accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target.

Claim 11

Dependent Claim 28 words

The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said transducer means is positioned with respect to said firearm by attachment to a garment worn by the user of the firearm.

Claim 12

Dependent Claim 197 words

Apparatus for training in the use of a firearm, comprising: a firearm; at least one transducer means positioned relative to the firearm and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the firearm; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the firearm; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the firearm at said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range, wherein said circuit means comprises means for determining whether said transducer signal corresponds to a pressure applied to the firearm which is within, less than, or greater than said predetermined optimal range, and said display means comprises means operatively connected to the determining means of the circuit means for providing a first indication when the pressure applied to said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range, a second indication when the pressure applied to said transducer means is less than said predetermined range, and a third indication when the pressure applied to said transducer means is greater than said predetermined range.

Claim 13

Dependent Claim 197 words

Apparatus for training in the use of a firearm, comprising: a firearm; at least one transducer means positioned relative to the firearm and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the firearm; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the firearm; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the firearm at said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range, wherein said circuit means comprises means for determining whether said transducer signal corresponds to a pressure applied to the firearm which is within, less than, or greater than said predetermined optimal range, and said display means comprises means operatively connected to the determining means of the circuit means for providing a first indication when the pressure applied to said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range, a second indication when the pressure applied to said transducer means is less than said predetermined range, and a third indication when the pressure applied to said transducer means is greater than said predetermined range.

Claim 14

Dependent Claim 24 words

The apparatus of claim 11 wherein said display means comprises a respective colored lamp for providing each of said first, second and third indications.

Claim 15

Dependent Claim 224 words

Apparatus for training in the use of a firearm, comprising: a firearm; at least one transducer means positioned relative to the firearm and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the firearm; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the firearm; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the firearm at said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range, wherein said transducer means is a variable-resistance element and said circuit means comprises: means for producing a reference voltage; a resistance connected in series with said transducer means; means for supplying a constant current to said series-connected resistance and said transducer means; first means for comparing the combined voltage drop across said transducer means and said resistance with said reference voltage and producing a first control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater; second means for comparing the voltage drop across said transducer means with said reference voltage and producing a second control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater; and means for controlling said display means indication in dependence on said first and second control signals.

Claim 16

Dependent Claim 224 words

Apparatus for training in the use of a firearm, comprising: a firearm; at least one transducer means positioned relative to the firearm and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the firearm; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the firearm; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the firearm at said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range, wherein said transducer means is a variable-resistance element and said circuit means comprises: means for producing a reference voltage; a resistance connected in series with said transducer means; means for supplying a constant current to said series-connected resistance and said transducer means; first means for comparing the combined voltage drop across said transducer means and said resistance with said reference voltage and producing a first control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater; second means for comparing the voltage drop across said transducer means with said reference voltage and producing a second control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater; and means for controlling said display means indication in dependence on said first and second control signals.

Claim 17

Dependent Claim 55 words

The apparatus of claim 13 wherein said display means provides a first indication when said first and second control signals represent the condition that the pressure applied to said transducer means is less than said predetermined range, a second indication when within said predetermined range, and a third indication when greater than said predetermined range.

Claim 18

Dependent Claim 25 words

The apparatus of claim 13 wherein said resistance is manually adjustable, whereby the magnitude of pressure variation of said predetermined range may be manually selected.

Claim 19

Dependent Claim 24 words

The apparatus of claim 13 wherein said reference voltage is manually adjustable, whereby the lower limit of said predetermined range may be manually selected.

Claim 20

Dependent Claim 23 words

The apparatus of claim 13 wherein said first and second control signals are logic signals and said controlling means comprises a logic circuit.

Claim 21

Dependent Claim 21 words

The apparatus of claim 13 wherein said display means provides a continuous indication of the pressure applied to said transducer means.

Claim 22

Dependent Claim 30 words

The apparatus of claim 13 wherein said display means indication is normally deactivated, further comprising means for activating said display means indication when the trigger of said firearm is squeezed.

Claim 23

Dependent Claim 19 words

The apparatus of claim 19, further comprising means for manually resetting said display means indication to the deactivated state.

Claim 24

Dependent Claim 32 words

The apparatus of claim 19, further comprising means for automatically resetting said display means indication to the deactivated state at the end of a predetermined elapsed time following squeezing of said trigger.

Claim 25

Dependent Claim 23 words

The apparatus of claim 13 wherein said controlling means comprises means for latching said display means indication at its existing state until reset.

Claim 26

Dependent Claim 23 words

The apparatus of claim 22 further comprising means for rendering said latching means operative in response to squeezing the trigger of said firearm.

Claim 27

Dependent Claim 14 words

The apparatus of claim 22 further comprising means for manually resetting said latching means.

Claim 28

Dependent Claim 26 words

The apparatus of claim 22 wherein said circuit means further comprises means for automatically resetting said latching means at the end of a predetermined elapsed time.

Claim 29

Dependent Claim 154 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm, comprising: means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; a target; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards said target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a plurality of means mounted on said target for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target wherein said target comprises a plurality of apertures for receiving said reflected light, each of said apertures having associated therewith a respective light beam receiving means, and wherein said display means comprises a plurality of indicator means associated with each of said light beam receiving means for indicating which of said light beam receiving means is receiving reflected light.

Claim 30

Dependent Claim 154 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm, comprising: means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; a target; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards said target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a plurality of means mounted on said target for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target wherein said target comprises a plurality of apertures for receiving said reflected light, each of said apertures having associated therewith a respective light beam receiving means, and wherein said display means comprises a plurality of indicator means associated with each of said light beam receiving means for indicating which of said light beam receiving means is receiving reflected light.

Claim 31

Dependent Claim 16 words

The apparatus of claim 26 wherein said light beam projecting means comprises an infra-red light source.

Claim 32

Dependent Claim 16 words

The apparatus of claim 21 wherein said light beam projecting means comprises a pulsed light source.

Claim 33

Dependent Claim 25 words

The apparatus of claim 26 wherein said light beam projecting means comprises a light source having a divergence of about 90° in the horizontal plane.

Claim 34

Dependent Claim 25 words

The apparatus of claim 26 wherein said light beam projecting means comprises a light source having a divergence of about 20° in the vertical plane.

Claim 35

Dependent Claim 41 words

The apparatus of claim 26 wherein said light beam projecting means is substantially a point source of light and said reflecting means comprises a mirror having a diameter not greater than about one-half the diameter of said light beam receiving means.

Claim 36

Dependent Claim 38 words

The apparatus of claim 26 wherein said display means further includes circuit means responsive to the control signal from each said plurality of light beam receiving means for actuating the accuracy of aim indication of said display means.

Claim 37

Dependent Claim 109 words

The apparatus of claim 32 wherein one of said plurality of light beam receiving means is optically coupled to a bull's eye area on said target and the remaining light beam receiving means are optically coupled to respective areas of the target around said bull's eye area, and wherein said circuit means further comprises means for receiving the control signal from each of said light beam receiving means and for actuating the corresponding indicator means when one of said remaining light beam receiving means receives said reflected light and for actuating said plurality of indicator means when said bull's eye area light beam receiving means receives said reflected light.

Claim 38

Dependent Claim 13 words

The apparatus of claim 32 wherein said circuit means is a logic circuit.

Claim 39

Dependent Claim 134 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm, comprising: means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; a target; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards said target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a plurality of means mounted on said target for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target wherein said target comprises a plurality of elongated light transmitting members, each of said members having a front face defining a portion of the target area and a rear face optically coupled to a respective light beam receiving means.

Claim 40

Dependent Claim 134 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm, comprising: means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; a target; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards said target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a plurality of means mounted on said target for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target wherein said target comprises a plurality of elongated light transmitting members, each of said members having a front face defining a portion of the target area and a rear face optically coupled to a respective light beam receiving means.

Claim 41

Dependent Claim 15 words

The apparatus of claim 35 wherein each said light transmitting member comprises an acrylic rod.

Claim 42

Dependent Claim 30 words

The apparatus of claim 35 wherein said front face defines part of a sphere having a radius of curvature marginally greater than one-half the length of the light transmitting member.

Claim 43

Dependent Claim 34 words

The apparatus of claim 35 wherein one said front face defines a circular central area of the target and each remaining front face defines an arcuate segment of an annulus surrounding said central area.

Claim 44

Dependent Claim 39 words

The apparatus of claim 35 wherein each said light transmitting member is optically tapered from said front face to said rear face, whereby substantially all of the light received at said front face is transmitted to said rear face.

Claim 45

Dependent Claim 17 words

The apparatus of claim 35 wherein each said light transmitting member comprises a group of optical fibers.

Claim 46

Dependent Claim 16 words

The apparatus of claim 35 wherein said light beam receiving means comprises at least one photo-semiconductor.

Claim 47

Dependent Claim 107 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm, comprising: means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; a target; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards said target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a plurality of means mounted on said target for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target wherein said display means comprises illuminatable means concentrically mounted around said target.

Claim 48

Dependent Claim 107 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm, comprising: means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; a target; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards said target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a plurality of means mounted on said target for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target wherein said display means comprises illuminatable means concentrically mounted around said target.

Claim 49

Dependent Claim 188 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm, comprising: means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; a target; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards said target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a plurality of means mounted on said target for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target wherein said target comprises five light beam receiving means, one of said light beam receiving means comprising a target bull's eye and the remaining four light beam receiving means defining target quadrants about said bull's eye, said display means comprising four illuminatible indicator quadrants mounted concentrically to define an annulus about said target, and circuit means connected for illuminating all four of said indicator quadrants when said bull's eye receives said reflected light beam and for illuminating only one of said indicator quadrants when an adjacent target quadrant receives said reflected light beam.

Claim 50

Dependent Claim 188 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm, comprising: means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; a target; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards said target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a plurality of means mounted on said target for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target wherein said target comprises five light beam receiving means, one of said light beam receiving means comprising a target bull's eye and the remaining four light beam receiving means defining target quadrants about said bull's eye, said display means comprising four illuminatible indicator quadrants mounted concentrically to define an annulus about said target, and circuit means connected for illuminating all four of said indicator quadrants when said bull's eye receives said reflected light beam and for illuminating only one of said indicator quadrants when an adjacent target quadrant receives said reflected light beam.

Claim 51

Dependent Claim 184 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm, comprising: a firearm; means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards a target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a target having means for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target; and means for training in the correct holding of said firearm, comprising: at least one transducer means positioned relative to the firearm and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the firearm; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a pressure display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the firearm; and pressure display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the firearm is within said predetermined optimal range.

Claim 52

Dependent Claim 184 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm, comprising: a firearm; means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards a target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a target having means for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target; and means for training in the correct holding of said firearm, comprising: at least one transducer means positioned relative to the firearm and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the firearm; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a pressure display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the firearm; and pressure display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the firearm is within said predetermined optimal range.

Claim 53

Dependent Claim 126 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm having a trigger, comprising: means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; a target; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards said target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a plurality of means mounted on said target for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target wherein said display means indication is normally deactivated, and further comprising means for activating said display means indication in response to squeezing of the trigger of said firearm.

Claim 54

Dependent Claim 126 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm having a trigger, comprising: means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; a target; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards said target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a plurality of means mounted on said target for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target wherein said display means indication is normally deactivated, and further comprising means for activating said display means indication in response to squeezing of the trigger of said firearm.

Claim 55

Dependent Claim 19 words

The apparatus of claim 45, further comprising means for manually resetting said display means indication to the deactivated state.

Claim 56

Dependent Claim 131 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm having a trigger, comprising: means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; a target; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards said target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a plurality of means mounted on said target for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target wherein said display means provides said accuracy of aim indication continuously, and further comprising means for automatically deactivating said indication at the end of a predetermined elapsed time following squeezing of said trigger.

Claim 57

Dependent Claim 131 words

Apparatus for training in the accuracy of aim of a firearm having a trigger, comprising: means for projecting a beam of light toward said firearm; a target; means mounted on said firearm for reflecting said light beam towards said target when said firearm is aimed at said target; a plurality of means mounted on said target for receiving said reflected light beam and providing a control signal in response to the received light beam; and means responsive to said control signal for displaying an indication of the accuracy of aim of said firearm with respect to said target wherein said display means provides said accuracy of aim indication continuously, and further comprising means for automatically deactivating said indication at the end of a predetermined elapsed time following squeezing of said trigger.

Claim 58

Dependent Claim 102 words

Apparatus for training a horseman as to correct pressure distribution on a saddle, comprising: a saddle; at least one transducer means positioned relative to the saddle and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the saddle by the horseman; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the saddle; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the saddle at said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range.

Claim 59

Dependent Claim 102 words

Apparatus for training a horseman as to correct pressure distribution on a saddle, comprising: a saddle; at least one transducer means positioned relative to the saddle and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the saddle by the horseman; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the saddle; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the saddle at said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range.

Claim 60

Dependent Claim 15 words

The apparatus of claim 48 wherein said transducer means is detachably mounted on said saddle.

Claim 61

Dependent Claim 24 words

The apparatus of claim 48 wherein the saddle includes a recess for receiving said transducer means, said transducer means being mounted in said recess.

Claim 62

Dependent Claim 29 words

The apparatus of claim 48 wherein said transducer means comprises a pair of terminals and means for varying the electrical resistance between said terminals in dependence on applied pressure.

Claim 63

Dependent Claim 15 words

The apparatus of claim 51 wherein said resistance-varying means comprises a resiliently deformable, carbon-impregnated core.

Claim 64

Dependent Claim 68 words

The apparatus of claim 48 wherein said display means comprises a representation of said saddle having means for indicating when the pressure applied to the saddle is within said predetermined range, each said indicating means responsive to the signal from an associated transducer means, and each said indicating means located on said representation at a position corresponding to the position of the associated transducer means on said saddle.

Claim 65

Dependent Claim 50 words

The apparatus of claim 40 wherein said circuit means comprises: means for defining a range of variation of said transducer signal corresponding to said predetermined optimal range of applied pressure; and means for controlling said display means to provide said indication when said transducer signal is within said defined range.

Claim 66

Dependent Claim 19 words

The apparatus of claim 40, further comprising a radio transmitter/receiver link between said transducer means and said display means.

Claim 67

Dependent Claim 40 words

The apparatus of claim 55 wherein said radio link comprises a transmitter having means for pulse coding the signals from a plurality of said transducer means and a receiver having means for decoding the pulse coded signals from said transmitter.

Claim 68

Dependent Claim 204 words

Apparatus for training a horseman as to correct pressure distribution on a saddle, comprising: a saddle; at least one transducer means positioned relative to the saddle and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the saddle by the horseman; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the saddle; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the saddle at said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range, wherein said circuit means comprises means for determining whether said transducer signal corresponds to a pressure applied to the saddle which is within, less than, or greater than said predetermined optimal range, and said display means comprises means operatively connected to the determining means of the circuit means for providing a first indication when the pressure applied to said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range, a second indication when the pressure applied to said transducer means is less than said predetermined range, and a third indication when the pressure applied to said transducer means is greater than said predetermined range.

Claim 69

Dependent Claim 204 words

Apparatus for training a horseman as to correct pressure distribution on a saddle, comprising: a saddle; at least one transducer means positioned relative to the saddle and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the saddle by the horseman; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the saddle; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the saddle at said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range, wherein said circuit means comprises means for determining whether said transducer signal corresponds to a pressure applied to the saddle which is within, less than, or greater than said predetermined optimal range, and said display means comprises means operatively connected to the determining means of the circuit means for providing a first indication when the pressure applied to said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range, a second indication when the pressure applied to said transducer means is less than said predetermined range, and a third indication when the pressure applied to said transducer means is greater than said predetermined range.

Claim 70

Dependent Claim 24 words

The apparatus of claim 57 wherein said display means comprises a respective colored lamp for providing each of said first, second and third indications.

Claim 71

Dependent Claim 231 words

Apparatus for training a horseman as to correct pressure distribution on a saddle, comprising: a saddle; at least one transducer means positioned relative to the saddle and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the saddle by the horseman; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the saddle; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the saddle at said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range, wherein said transducer means is a variable-resistance element and said circuit means comprises: means for producing a reference voltage; a resistance connected in series with said transducer means; means for supplying a constant current to said series-connected resistance and said transducer means; first means for comparing the combined voltage drop across said transducer means and said resistance with said reference voltage and producing a first control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater; second means for comparing the voltage drop across said transducer means with said reference voltage and producing a second control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater; and means for controlling said display means indication in dependence on said first and second control signals.

Claim 72

Dependent Claim 231 words

Apparatus for training a horseman as to correct pressure distribution on a saddle, comprising: a saddle; at least one transducer means positioned relative to the saddle and coupled for providing a signal representing pressure applied to the saddle by the horseman; circuit means responsive to said transducer signal for controlling a display means, the circuit means defining a transducer signal range corresponding to a predetermined optimal range of pressure applied to the saddle; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an indication when the pressure applied to the saddle at said transducer means is within said predetermined optimal range, wherein said transducer means is a variable-resistance element and said circuit means comprises: means for producing a reference voltage; a resistance connected in series with said transducer means; means for supplying a constant current to said series-connected resistance and said transducer means; first means for comparing the combined voltage drop across said transducer means and said resistance with said reference voltage and producing a first control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater; second means for comparing the voltage drop across said transducer means with said reference voltage and producing a second control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater; and means for controlling said display means indication in dependence on said first and second control signals.

Claim 73

Dependent Claim 55 words

The apparatus of claim 59 wherein said display means provides a first indication when said first and second control signals represent the condition that the pressure applied to said transducer means is less than said predetermined range, a second indication when within said predetermined range, and a third indication when greater than said predetermined range.

Claim 74

Dependent Claim 25 words

The apparatus of claim 59 wherein said resistance is manually adjustable, whereby the magnitude of pressure variation of said predetermined range may be manually selected.

Claim 75

Dependent Claim 24 words

The apparatus of claim 59 wherein said reference voltage is manually adjustable, whereby the lower limit of said predetermined range may be manually selected.

Claim 76

Dependent Claim 23 words

The apparatus of claim 59 wherein said first and second control signals are logic signals and said controlling means comprises a logic circuit.

Claim 77

Dependent Claim 21 words

The apparatus of claim 59 wherein said display means provides a continuous indication of the pressure applied to said transducer means.

Claim 78

Dependent Claim 128 words

Apparatus for training as to the correct user interface with sporting equipment, comprising: at least one transducer means suitable to be attached to said sporting equipment for providing a signal which varies in accordance with a force applied at an interface between a user and said sporting equipment; circuit means responsive to said transducer means signal for controlling a display means; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an observable indication of said applied force as detected by said at least one transducer means, said display means comprising means for providing a first indication for one range of forces when detected by at least one transducer means and a second indication for another range of forces when detected by said at least one transducer means.

Claim 79

Dependent Claim 128 words

Apparatus for training as to the correct user interface with sporting equipment, comprising: at least one transducer means suitable to be attached to said sporting equipment for providing a signal which varies in accordance with a force applied at an interface between a user and said sporting equipment; circuit means responsive to said transducer means signal for controlling a display means; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an observable indication of said applied force as detected by said at least one transducer means, said display means comprising means for providing a first indication for one range of forces when detected by at least one transducer means and a second indication for another range of forces when detected by said at least one transducer means.

Claim 80

Dependent Claim 34 words

Apparatus according to claim 65, wherein each said range has an upper and a lower limit, and said circuit means comprises means for adjustably presetting said upper and lower limits of each said range.

Claim 81

Dependent Claim 17 words

Apparatus according to claim 65, wherein said display means comprises plural colored lights for providing said indications.

Claim 82

Dependent Claim 18 words

Apparatus according to claim 67, wherein a different colored light is used for each said range of forces.

Claim 83

Dependent Claim 52 words

Apparatus according to claim 68, wherein said display means comprises three said different colored lights coupled by said circuit means to each said transducer, a first said light indicating an insufficient force range, a second said light indicating a correct force range and a third said light indicating an oversufficient force range.

Claim 84

Dependent Claim 42 words

Apparatus according to claim 65, wherein said display means comprises a visual representation of said sporting equipment, each said indicating means being positioned on said representation at a location corresponding to the position of an associated said transducer on said sporting equipment.

Claim 85

Dependent Claim 20 words

Apparatus according to claim 65, wherein said at least one transducer is detachably mounted with respect to said sporting equipment.

Claim 86

Dependent Claim 25 words

Apparatus according to claim 71, wherein said sporting equipment includes a recess for receiving at least one said transducer, said transducer mounted in said recess.

Claim 87

Dependent Claim 38 words

Apparatus according to claim 65, wherein said at least one transducer comprises a pair of terminals and means for varying the electrical resistance between said terminals in dependence on forces of pressure or weight applied to said interface.

Claim 88

Dependent Claim 15 words

Apparatus according to claim 73, wherein said resistance-varying means comprises a resiliently deformable, carbon-impregnated core.

Claim 89

Dependent Claim 220 words

Apparatus for training as to the correct user interface with sporting equipment, comprising: at least one transducer means suitable to be attached to or integrally formed with said sporting equipment for providing a signal which varies in accordance with a force applied to an interface between a user and said sporting equipment; circuit means responsive to said transducer means signal for controlling a display means; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an observable indication of said applied force as detected by said at least one transducer means, wherein said transducer means comprises a variable-resistance element and said circuit means comprises: means for producing a reference voltage; a resistance connected in series with said transducer means; means for supplying a constant current to said series-connected resistance and said transducer means; first means for comparing the combined voltage drop across said transducer means and said resistance with said reference voltage and producing a first control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater; second means for comparing the voltage drop across said transducer means with said reference voltage and producing a second control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater, and means for controlling said display means indication in dependence on said first and second control signals.

Claim 90

Dependent Claim 220 words

Apparatus for training as to the correct user interface with sporting equipment, comprising: at least one transducer means suitable to be attached to or integrally formed with said sporting equipment for providing a signal which varies in accordance with a force applied to an interface between a user and said sporting equipment; circuit means responsive to said transducer means signal for controlling a display means; and display means responsive to said circuit means for providing an observable indication of said applied force as detected by said at least one transducer means, wherein said transducer means comprises a variable-resistance element and said circuit means comprises: means for producing a reference voltage; a resistance connected in series with said transducer means; means for supplying a constant current to said series-connected resistance and said transducer means; first means for comparing the combined voltage drop across said transducer means and said resistance with said reference voltage and producing a first control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater; second means for comparing the voltage drop across said transducer means with said reference voltage and producing a second control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater, and means for controlling said display means indication in dependence on said first and second control signals.

Claim 91

Dependent Claim 36 words

Apparatus according to claim 75, wherein said resistance is manually adjustable, whereby a range of said applied force as detected by said transducer means for which a said observable indication is provided may be manually selected.

Claim 92

Dependent Claim 26 words

Apparatus according to claim 76, wherein said reference voltage is manually adjustable, whereby a lower limit of said range of applied force may be manually selected.

Claim 93

Dependent Claim 76 words

Hand-held firearm apparatus for use with marksmanship training equipment which gives an indication of pressure applied by a user to the firearm at selected areas thereon, comprising: a hand-held firearm; and a transducer mounted on the firearm at each of said selected areas thereon, each said transducer providing an output signal which varies continuously in dependence on the pressure applied by the user to the firearm at the respective selected area where the transducer is mounted.

Claim 94

Dependent Claim 76 words

Hand-held firearm apparatus for use with marksmanship training equipment which gives an indication of pressure applied by a user to the firearm at selected areas thereon, comprising: a hand-held firearm; and a transducer mounted on the firearm at each of said selected areas thereon, each said transducer providing an output signal which varies continuously in dependence on the pressure applied by the user to the firearm at the respective selected area where the transducer is mounted.

Claim 95

Dependent Claim 39 words

Hand-held firearm apparatus according to claim 78, wherein the firearm is provided with a trigger, and a switch responsive to motion of the trigger to provide an output signal to the marksmanship training equipment when the trigger is pulled.

Claim 96

Dependent Claim 25 words

Hand-held firearm apparatus according to claim 78, wherein each said transducer comprises an electrically resistive element which changes resistance in dependence on pressure applied thereto.

Claim 97

Dependent Claim 30 words

Hand-held firearm apparatus according to claim 78, wherein the firearm comprises a rifle, and said selected areas are at butt, cheek, hand grip and forehand grip locations of the rifle.

Claim 98

Dependent Claim 36 words

Hand-held firearm apparatus according to claim 81, wherein said transducers are provided on both sides of the rifle at the hand grip and cheeck locations to provide for use by right-handed as well as left-handed users.

Claim 99

Dependent Claim 185 words

Hand-held firearm apparatus for use with marksmanship training equipment which gives an indication of pressure applied by a user to the firearm at selected areas thereon, comprising: a hand-held firearm; and a transducer mounted on the firearm at each of said selected areas thereon, each said transducer providing an output signal which varies continuously in dependence on the pressure applied by the user to the firearm at the respective selected area where the transducer is mounted, wherein each said transducer is a variable resistance element, the apparatus further comprising: a source of reference voltage; a resistor connected in series with each transducer; means for supplying a constant current to each series-connected resistor and transducer; a first comparator for comparing the combined voltage drop across the transducer and the resistor with the reference voltage and producing a first control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater; and a second comparator for comparing the voltage drop across the transducer with the reference voltage and producing a second control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater.

Claim 100

Dependent Claim 185 words

Hand-held firearm apparatus for use with marksmanship training equipment which gives an indication of pressure applied by a user to the firearm at selected areas thereon, comprising: a hand-held firearm; and a transducer mounted on the firearm at each of said selected areas thereon, each said transducer providing an output signal which varies continuously in dependence on the pressure applied by the user to the firearm at the respective selected area where the transducer is mounted, wherein each said transducer is a variable resistance element, the apparatus further comprising: a source of reference voltage; a resistor connected in series with each transducer; means for supplying a constant current to each series-connected resistor and transducer; a first comparator for comparing the combined voltage drop across the transducer and the resistor with the reference voltage and producing a first control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater; and a second comparator for comparing the voltage drop across the transducer with the reference voltage and producing a second control signal having a value dependent on which of the compared voltages is greater.

Annuity Stage	Window Opens	Payment Deadline	Surcharge Period Until	Estimated Fee	Status
3.5 Years (Year 4)	1987-07-03	1988-01-02	1988-07-03	$2000.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
7.5 Years (Year 8)	1991-07-03	1992-01-02	1992-07-03	$3760.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
11.5 Years (Year 12)	1995-07-03	1996-01-02	1996-07-03	$7700.00	Window Closed / Lapsed

Rifle training apparatus

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