User-Alert Device for Less-Than-Lethal Ammunition

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/653,292 filed on May 30, 2024, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

The present disclosure relates generally to firearms and less-than-lethal munitions. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods for firearm accessories that presents the user with a combination of visual, audible, and haptic queues to alert when a target is within the ammunition's effective engagement range

Less-than-lethal threat de-escalation tools have become integral components of law enforcement protocols in recent years. Among these tools, specialized ammunition has gained prominence for its ability to temporarily deter threats without resorting to lethal force. Munitions such as rubber bullets, bean bag rounds, pepper balls, paint balls, foam rounds, wooded/polymeric batons, etc. when fired at a target have the capacity to incapacitate without inflicting a lethal injury. However, the effectiveness and safety of these tools are highly dependent on their use within specific parameters, particularly the distance between the officer and the target. As the distance between a target and an officer decreases, the greater the increase in potential for injury or death from the less-than-lethal munitions. When engaged at an inappropriately close range, these tools can pose significant risks to the target, potentially resulting in severe bodily harm or even death. Such outcomes not only undermine the fundamental intent behind the adoption of less-than-lethal options but also expose officers and their agencies to significant ethical and legal challenges.

Determining the proper distance to the target is typically left to the officer's judgment or aided by tools such as hand-held laser rangefinders. However, in high-stress, rapidly evolving situations, both methods are prone to error. Errors in range assessment can lead to catastrophic consequences. If a target is too close, the impact of the projectile can cause unintended injuries, contradicting the principles of humane engagement. Conversely, firing at a target beyond the ammunition's effective range is equally problematic—it renders the weapon ineffective, wastes resources, and risks escalating the situation by aggravating the target or their associates.

There is a not yet met gap in the state of the art regarding the safe and effective use of less-than-lethal firearms. Current tools lack integrated systems to assist officers in accurately determining whether a target is within the appropriate engagement range. This limitation leaves room for human error, particularly in high-stress situations, where misjudging distance can lead to ineffective or harmful outcomes. A solution that bridges this gap is needed to provide officers with real-time, reliable feedback on target range, ensuring safer and more precise deployment of less-than-lethal munitions.

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for devices for use in conjunction with non-lethal ammunition. More specifically, the disclosure provides a device that can determine

A device is provided for determining the distance between a user and a target on which less-than-lethal ammunition will be used. The device can compare this distance to a user-defined set of range limits, which for example can be supplied by the ammunition manufacturer, and then can alert the user when an acceptable target range is met. In example, where the range is outside of the ammunition's effective range, the device can offer a different alert such as including changing LED colors or optionally triggering a haptic device, so that it is clear to the user that engagement is not recommended. The device can attach to a weapon platform optionally compatible with less-than-lethal ammunition and offers provisions for mounting a day optic. In some aspects, the device can incorporate a day optic disposed on a portion of the device. In some aspects, the device can include an accessory laser configured for alignment and auxiliary targeting purposes.

One aspect of the present disclosure, disclosed is a device for a firearm, the device includes a body structured to attach to a portion of a firearm and disposed in a sight plane with the firearm, a measurement device disposed in the sight plane and configured to determine a distance between a target and a user, a reference device disposed in the sight plane, at least one peripheral driver, a feedback array configured to provide a signal to the user based on the distance; and a processor and power source in communication with the device.

In another aspect, disclosed is a method implemented by a firearm device, the method including the steps of sampling via a measurement device a send and return signal, computing a distance based on the sampling, comparing the distance to a threshold to determine an effective range, and alerting a user responsive to the determination.

Again, the present disclosure generally relates to firearms optionally utilizing less-than-lethal ammunition and accessories for firearms. More particularly, the present invention relates to an accessory which can be mounted to the firearm that presents the user with a combination of visual, audible, and haptic queues to alert when a target is within the ammunition's effective engagement range. The disclosure introduces a device configured to determine when a target is within an acceptable range to be engaged with non-lethal ammunition and can provide an alert to a user to indicate such. More generally, the device can decrease instances of life threatening wounds inflicted by less-than-lethal ammunition.

The device can include a distance measurement sensor configured to determine a distance between a user and a target. The device can include one or more lasers, which can be configured to align the device, for example with a sight plane of a firearm, provide a reference, or for targeting assistance. Aspect of the invention can include a processor communicatively coupled to any component or portion of the device. The processor is operable to coordinate the functions of the device. The processor and any of the portions of the device can be powered by a power source, such as solar, a battery, or the like. In some aspects, the processor can be configured with a power management system to preserve or conserve power usage. Further, the processor can be connected with one or more peripheral drivers disposed throughout the device.

Turning now to, a flowchart depicting an exemplary methodfor alerting a user to targeting conditions are met is shown and described. The methodcan be initialized on a device, for example the user alert device fitted to a firearm. The methodcan include providing one or more settings prior to, during, or after initialization. For example, the methodcan provide the user with the ability to program presets. The presets can be operational parameters, such as units, maximum range, minimum range, ammunition type, or the like. Other presets can include without limitation firearm type, zeroing distance, surrounding setting, target distance markers, ballistic drop compensation, wind correction, inclination compensation, target type (e.g., human silhouette, animal profiles, etc.), moving target predictions, size-based targeting, reticle customization, thermal imaging settings, night vision setting, friend-or-foe identification, engagement zone limits, shot history, training mode, diagnostics, or the like. The methodcan include providing a sample and return signal. More generally, the methodcan include utilizing a system to calculate range. The sampling and return can be configured to calculate range by sending out one or more signals (e.g., laser pulses, radar pulses, waves, ultrasonic waves) and analyzing their returns. The methodcan include emitting a series of signals towards a target. The type of signals can depend on the system. Such signals travel at a known speed (e.g., the speed of light, speed of sound, etc.). The emitted signal can encounter an object (the target) and can reflect toward the system. The method can include calculating a time-of-flight (ToF) of the signal, which can be the time it takes for the signal to travel to the target and back.

Here, the division by 2 can account for the round-trip distance. In some aspects, the methodcan include emitting multiple signals in quick succession. Each signal can generate a corresponding return signal. Multiple signals can be an advantage over singular signals because an individual signal can be distorted by interference or can scatter due to variations in surface geometry, atmospheric conditions, or obstacles. The methodcan be configured to compute the range to the target. The following formula is an example of how the methodcan calculate the distance:

It is envisioned that other methods can be used to calculate distance, and the foregoing is provided in example only without limitation. In other aspects, the methodcan include calculating the distance to a target via a phase-shift measurements, wherein a continuous wave signal is emitted with a known frequency and the phase difference between the emitted and reflected wave is measured. The methodcan alternatively calculate range with, for example, a triangulation method, interferometry, echolocation, image-based techniques, a doppler shift, or passive techniques (i.e., parallax or size-based estimation). More generally, the methodcan include determining the range between the user and a target. The range or distance can be stored locally, on an adjacent device, or in the cloud.

The methodcan include comparing the measured distance to a range. The range can define a threshold. The range can be defined by the user gathered from a data source. The range can be preset by the user. The range can be based on targeting conditions and ammunition parameters. For example, the range can be based on a likelihood of lethality from less-than-lethal ammunition and can define an effective range for the same. The range can include a maximum and/or minimum range. The minimum range can define a distance where any distance shorter than the minimum range where less-than-lethal ammunition is used can result in a high likelihood of significant injury or death. The maximum range can define a distance where any distance greater than the maximum range can result in a loss of effectiveness or incapacity power of the ammunition. More generally, the methodcan include comparing the distance to a range to determine if less-than-lethal ammunition can be effectively utilized.

Alternatively, the methodcan include evaluating the measured range by comparing it to a specified threshold range. This threshold range can represent a range of distances that is predefined or dynamically set by the user, based on data from various sources. The range may be customized by the user to account for specific targeting and environmental conditions, as well as the characteristics of the ammunition being used. For instance, when using less-than-lethal ammunition, the range can be configured to reflect its effective lethality. The range can include both a minimum and a maximum range. The minimum range can establish a safe threshold, below which the use of less-than-lethal ammunition poses a significant risk of severe injury or unintended lethality for example, due to excessive force or penetration. Conversely, the maximum range can define the upper limit of the range, beyond which the ammunition may lose effectiveness, rendering it incapable of achieving the desired incapacitation or deterrence. The methodcan therefore ensure that less-than-lethal ammunition is deployed within an effective and safe distance by evaluating whether the measured distance falls within the predefined range. This approach not only optimizes the utility of less-than-lethal ammunition but also enhances safety by minimizing the risks associated with distances outside the effective range. The methodcan make a determination based on the range and the threshold. More specifically, the determination can be if the range is below the minimum range, above the maximum range, within the range, or outside of the range.

The methodcan provide feedback to the user based on the determination. Generally, the methodcan indicate to the user if the target should be engaged. If the determination is such that the target is within the range, the methodcan indicate to the user an “OK” to engage. If the target is outside of the range, the methodcan indicate to the user an alert. The methodcan include indicating to the user a minimum range alert if the target is within the minimum range. The methodcan include indicating to the user that the target is beyond the maximum range. The methodcan include providing a “greenlight” to the user if the target is within the range, for example via a green LED. The methodcan include providing a “redlight” to the user if the target is outside of the range, for example further than the maximum range or within the minimum range, via for example a red LED. Further the methodcan include providing haptic feedback to the user when the target is outside of the range. The methodcan be in dynamic response to a moving target, providing active feedback to the user for targeting.

Turning now to, an illustration of an exemplary interfaceto configure a device using the methodis shown and described. The interfacecan be associated with an app or program tethered to the device. The app can be communicatively coupled to a device using the method. The interfacecan be configured to allow the user to control the targeting system, for example by providing the user the ability to input operational parameters. The interfacecan allow the user to define presets, for example measurements, minimum and maximum range thresholds, ammunition type, firearm type (e.g., pistol, shotgun, rifle, etc.), The interfacecan be an application executed on a device and can be configured to provide real time data, such as diagnostics or information based on the method. The interfacecan provide visual and/or haptic alerts such as vibration or auditory feedback. The interfacecan provide targeting updates to the user. The interfacecan provide the user the ability for data logging and remote updates. The interfacecan define one or more inputs, such as type bars, pull down menus, or scroll menus. The interfacecan be configured to provide the user with customization options. It is envisioned that the interfacecan be utilized via a smartphone. The interfacecan be used to calibrate and/or configure the method or a device utilizing the method.

Turning now to, a cross sectional view depicting an exemplary embodiment of the user alert devicefor non-lethal ammunitions is shown and described. It should be noted that devices and methods of the present disclosure are contemplated for all types of firearms and ammunition types, including lethal and less-than-lethal ammunition types. Notably, as used herein, the disclosure generally references the terms “tactical device” and “firearms” interchangeably. The terms “firearms” and “tactical device” can generally refer to, but are not limited to a system to be used as or with a weapon, a less than lethal weapon, a firearm configured with either lethal or less than lethal ammunition, various accessories and attachments (e.g., scopes, lasers, silencers), non-lethal weapons designed for self-defense or law enforcement (e.g., tasers, rubber bullets), targeting or guidance systems (e.g., sights, night vision devices, thermal imaging, etc.), devices or systems that combine multiple functionalities, such as a firearm with integrated communication systems, firearms modified for specialized functions (e.g., shotguns with breaching rounds), combat drones for reconnaissance, targeting, and tactical operations, training devices used to simulate firearm usage for practice or educational purposes, any portable device that emits a projectile for defense, sport, or military use, or the like.

The devicecan define a housing. The housingcan define a hollow interior and can define therein at least one component of the user alert devicedescribed in the instant disclosure. The housingcan be configured to be releasably attachable to a portion of the firearm. For example, the housingcan be configured to be attached to a mounting structure of the firearm. The mounting structure can be, without limitation, a picatinny rail, a 1913 vrail, a M-LOK rail, a weaver rail, a dovetail, a KeyMod rail, a SOPMOD rail, a UIT rail, a Zeiss rail, a Freeland Rail, a RIS, a threaded fastener, a snap-fit assembly, a bayonet lug or lug structure, or generally any structure on a tactical device structed to releasably receive an attachment. In some aspects, the housingcan be mounted to a barrel portion of the firearm, such as on an underbarrel portion. In typical aspects, the housingcan be disposed in a line of sight of the user, such as in the sight plane of the firearm. The devicecan include a measurement sensor. The measurement sensorcan be a range finder. For example, the measurement sensorcan be a laser range finder. Alternatively, the measurement sensorcan be a ultrasonic or radar range finder. More generally, the measurement sensorcan be adapted to determine a distance between the deviceand a target. The measurement sensorcan be disposed at a forwardmost portion of the housingand can be configured to emit a signal which can interact with the target to determine the distance. The devicecan further include an alignment and/or reference laser. Optionally, the measurement sensorcan be structured to serve as the alignment and/or reference laser. For example, the measurement sensorcan be adapted to provide a first laser operable to determine a distance and a second laser operable for alignment and/or targeting. Such a targeting laser would be of sufficient power and bandwidth to be visible by the user.

In typical aspects, the devicecan include a PCBdefining any of a microprocessor, a power management feature, and peripheral drivers. The PCBis configured to be communicatively coupled to any of the components of the device. The PCBcan be adapted to execute a program, for example a program configured to execute a method of the present disclosure. The PCBcan be configured to selectively provide power to any component of the device. In some aspects, the PCBcan receive inputs, such as measurements of information from any component of the device. The PCBcan provide instructions or commands to any component of the device. The PCBcan be configured to interact and communicate with an external device, such as a smartphone, cloud service device, computer, instrumentation, or the like. The microprocessor of the PCBcan manage deviceoperations, including executing programs for range-finding, targeting, and alert algorithms. The PCBcan process input data (e.g., distance measurements, sensor readings, etc.) and can provide output instructions to display or alert components. The PCBcan include an energy efficient and compact microprocessor. In some aspects, the PCBcan include voltage regulation and battery managements systems. The PCBcan operate continuously, intermittently, or in a sleep or low-power mode when one or more components of the deviceare idle.

The PCBcan operate one or more peripheral drivers associated with the device. More generally, the PCBcan be configured to interact with specialized circuits or firmware configured to allow the microprocessor to interact and communicate with external components. In example only, and without limitation, the PCBcan be configured to interact with device disposed in an external display, such as in a helmet of the user to provide display. The PCBcan serve as a central hub for the device, wherein the device can connect with one or more components of the device. Examples of such interaction can include gathering input from sensors, such as distance or orientation, sending outputs to display systems or actuators to adjust alert features, and managing power flow to one or more components of the device.

The devicecan include a power source. The PCB, and more generally the devicecan be electrically coupled to the power source. The power sourcecan provide continuous power to any of the components of the device. The power source can be a rechargeable power source, such as a Li-Ion battery, a Li—Po battery, or a NiMH battery. The power sourcecan be a non-rechargeable replaceable battery such as one or more alkaline batteries. The power sourcecan be an integrated power source such as a solar panel. In some aspects, the power sourcecan comprise a combination of a rechargeable battery, a replaceable battery, or an integrated power source. For example, the power sourcecan include a rechargeable battery and a solar panel coupled to a capacitor to provide multiple power inputs. The power sourcecan include a voltage regulator in electrical communication between the power source and any component of the device. The power sourcecan be configured for smart power management and can include one or more processors to monitor battery health, manage charging cycles, and selectively provide power to components based on operational needs. In some aspects, the PCBcan be configured to selectively provide power from the power sourcebased on operational needs. The power sourcecan include recharging means, such as USB-C charging.

The devicecan include a haptic motor. The haptic motorcan be configured to provide a haptic alert to the user based on targeting conditions. For example, if the target is too close to the user, the haptic motorcan provide a haptic alert to the user. The haptic motorcan be an eccentric rotating mass type motor defining a small DC motor with an off-center weight coupled to the armature of the motor. When the motor spins, the uneven mass can generate a vibration adapted as a haptic alert. The haptic motorcan be a linear resonant actuator defining a spring mounted mass which can vibrate in response to a magnetic field. The haptic motorcan be a piezoelectric actuator configured to provide a haptic signal. More generally, the haptic motorcan operate based on a signal from the PCBin response to a targeting event (e.g., the determination that the target is either under the minimum range or beyond the maximum range, range finding completion, target lock-on, etc.). The haptic motorcan receive power from the PCBor power source. In typical aspects, the haptic motorcan be configured to provide a haptic alert in a pattern, (e.g., single pulse, short burst, sustained vibration, or any combination of patterns) to convey different types of information or conditions. The haptic alert pattern can be customizable by the user. More generally, the haptic motorcan be configured to provide a haptic vibration alert which can alert the user non-visually, allowing them to remain focused on the situation. The haptic motorcan be disposed proximal to the user contact point of the device, or in such a location of the deviceto maximize the transfer of the haptic alert to the user. The haptic motorcan include a motor driver coupled to the PCBand/or power sourceto manage power delivery and vibration intensity. The haptic motorcan be configured to signal alternative events, such as low battery power warning, target acquisition, distance threshold alerts, alignment confirmation, or the like.

The devicecan include a display. The displaycan be a interface for the user and can present information such as distance measurements, battery status, environmental data, targeting crosshairs, and an alert to indicate that a target is within or outside of a range. In a general example, the displaycan convey to the user that a target is under a minimum targeting distance, within a targeting range, or beyond a targeting distance. The targeting distance and range can be based on the effective range of less-than-lethal ammunition. The displaycan be a collection of one or more LEDs, a OLED screen, a LCD display, a holographic display, or the like. In typical aspects, the displaycan include, without limitation LCD, OLED, TFT or LED, thermal, night vision, low light, daylight displays, a HUD, holographic, laser projections, AR displays, VR displays, a fiber optic display, a micro display, electro-optics, or any visual display device, The displaycan be communicatively coupled to the PCBand/or the power source. The PCBcan be configured to urge the displayto display information responsive to a computation and/or determination made by the PCBbased on information gathered by the deviceor any component thereof. The displaycan provide core data to the user, such as distance to target, targeting crosshairs, alignment guides, battery status, environmental data, visual confirmations, and system alerts such as mode changes. The displaycan be disposed in the line of sight of the firearm and can be readily visible to the user, such as when the user is engaged with the target. In some aspects, the displaycan be dynamically updated based on the conditions perceived by the device.

Turning now to, an isometric viewof the user alert deviceofdisposed on a portion of the firearm is shown and described. The devicecan include an auxiliary optic. The auxiliary opticcan be disposed on a portion of the deviceor integrated therewith. The auxiliary opticcan be configured for sighting and can be separate from the devicein operation. The auxiliary opticcan be configured to be releasably secured to the device. The auxiliary opticcan be disposed in the line of sight of the firearm. The auxiliary opticcan be configured to provide sighting for the firearm. The auxiliary opticcan be a magnification optic, a night vision attachment, a thermal imaging optic, or a reticle. The auxiliary opticcan mount to the devicevia a mounting structure, such as a picatinny rail, a M-LOK, a dovetail, or the like and can use a securing mechanism. It is envisioned that the auxiliary opticcan provide primary sighting for the firearm. The auxiliary opticcan be the firearm sight, such as and without limitation a red dot sight (e.g., a Trijicon or aimpoint reflex sight), a holographic sight (e.g., as a EOTech or Vortex AMG), a variable magnification score (e.g., a Leupold or vortex scope), a fixed magnification sight (e.g., a ACOG or prism sight), a magnifier, or a compact hunting scope. In some aspects, the auxiliary opticcan be mounted on a superjacent portion of the device. In example, the auxiliary opticcan be mounted to an uppermost or top portion of the device.

The devicecan include an aperturedisposed on the housing. The aperturecan provide optical access to the sensorand more particularly to the laser. The aperturecan define a void in the housingadapted to allow the sensorto emit and receive a pulse. The aperturecan be disposed in the line of sight of the firearm and can be in a forwardmost portion of the device. The devicecan be configured to be secured to the firearm via a mounting structure. In example, the devicecan couple to a dovetail, a M-LOK, a picatinny rail, a 1913 rail, a bayonet lug, or any suitable mounting structure on the firearm. In preferred embodiments, the mounting structureis a picatinny rail and the deviceis configured to be received by the picatinny rail of the firearm.

Turning now to, a side profile viewof the deviceofdisposed on a portion of the firearm is shown and described. The devicecan include one or more inputs on the housing. For example, the devicecan include a plurality of buttons or switches configured to control the device. The devicecan include a windage adjustment. The windage adjustmentcan allow the user to compensate for the horizontal displacement of the projectile. The windage adjustmentcan define a turret or dial disposed on a side portion of the deviceand can include a “L” or “R” label to indicate a left or right adjustment, respectively. The windage adjustmentcan be turned to adjust the device'sposition horizontally within a sight, such as the auxiliary sightfield of view. The windage adjustmentcan be adjusted in Minutes of Angle (MoA) or Milliradians. The device can include a configuration button. The configuration buttoncan be adapted to control one or more parameters of the deviceand can be directly coupled to the PCBor any portion of the device. In several aspects, the configuration buttoncan be structured ergonomically such as to provide quick access to the user. The configuration buttoncan be a dial, a switch, a knob, or any structure which can allow the user to modulate and/or manipulate the device. the configuration buttoncan be disposed on a portion of the housingof the device. In some aspects, the devicecan include a plurality of configuration buttons. In example only, the devicecan include a first configuration buttonand a second configuration buttondisposed in line on a portion of the housingof the device. The devicecan include a power switch. The power switchcan be in electrical communication with the PCBand the power sourceand can be configured to selectively modulate power to the device. For example the power switchcan be adapted to allow the user to selectively cycle the device between on and off. The power switchis adapted to be ergonomically accessible and readily actuatable by the user.

Turning now to, a top-down viewof the deviceofdisposed on a portion of the firearm is shown and described. The devicecan include an elevation adjustment. The elevation adjustmentcan be positioned on a topmost surface of the device. The elevation adjustmentcan allow the user to account for the vertical trajectory of the projectile and can compensate for ballistic drop. The elevation adjustmentcan include a turret or a dial and can be marked with a “U” and “D” to indicate an up or down adjustment, respectively. The elevation adjustmentcan be adjusted in Minutes of Angle (MoA) or Milliradians. It is envisioned that the combination of the windage adjustmentand the elevation adjustmentcan be used to adjust or sight in the auxiliary optic, the tactical device, or a combination of both the auxiliary opticand tactical device. For example the combination of the windage adjustmentand the elevation adjustmentcan zero in the auxiliary sightand can allow for sighting adjustments based on the different ballistics of less-than-lethal ammunition.

Turning now to, alternative side profileof the deviceis shown and described. The devicecan include a clampwhich can be configured to selectively attach the deviceto the firearm. In example, the clampcan interact with the mounting structureof the firearm. Turning now to, alternative viewof the deviceofdepicting the auxiliary sightin the sight plane of the firearm is shown and described. The auxiliary sightof the devicecan be a holographic sight. In some aspects, the auxiliary sightcan be customizable and replaceable, allowing the user to configure the auxiliary sightand more generally the device. Notably, the auxiliary sightand the displaycan be configured in the line of sight of the user. The devicecan include one or more LEDs. The LEDs can be community coupled to the PCB and more generally to the device. The LEDscan be configured to, responsive to a condition, shine or flash and more generally indicate a condition to the user. The LEDsare operable to relay information to the user, such as targeting information. In some aspects, the devicecan include a first LEDand a second LED, wherein the first LEDand the second LEDare separate colors. In example, the first LEDcan be red and the second LEDcan be green. In such example, responsive to the device determining that the target is outside of a range (e.g., within a minimum distance or beyond a maximum distance), the first LEDcan shine red to notify the user of such. In continuation, responsive to the devicedetermining that the target is within a targeting range, the device and urge the second LEDto shine green to notify the user of such.

The following is an example operation aspect and is without limitation. The devicecan be provided with preset parameters based on a less-than-lethal ammunition, including an effective range of the foregoing. The effective range can define a minimum distance, wherein any target engaged under the minimum distance by the less-than-lethal ammunition is likely to sustain severe injury or death, a target between the minimum and maximum range is suitable to engage with the less-than-lethal ammunition, and any target outside the maximum range will likely not be effectively incapacitated by the ammunition. The devicecan determine the distance between the user and the target and via a distance computation performed in the PCB. The devicecan determine if the target is within the range or outside of the effective range. If the devicedetermines that the target is within the effective range, it can provide a notification to the user. Likewise, if the devicedetermines that the target is outside the effective range (i.e., under the minimum or over the maximum distance), it can provide an alternative notification to the user. The notification is configurable and can include any of a haptic alert, a displayed alert, an auditory alert, (i.e., received via a tactical helmet and provided to the user via a speaker therein), or an alert on an LED. The devicecan be configurable via an app operating on a smartphone in wireless communication with the device.

In an alternative exemplary operation, the devicecan be configured with pre-set parameters for determining the effective range of less-than-lethal ammunition, taking into account factors such as projectile type, muzzle velocity, and target characteristics. The devicecan calculate the trajectory of the ammunition and determine whether the target is within a specified effective range. This effective range is defined by a minimum distance, where any target engaged at or closer than this distance may sustain severe injury or death, and a maximum distance, beyond which the ammunition is unlikely to incapacitate the target effectively. The devicecan continuously measure the distance to the target using its rangefinder and compare this value against the pre-set minimum and maximum ranges. If the target is within the effective range, the devicecan alert the user through a configurable notification, which may include a visual display showing the effective range, an auditory alert, or a haptic signal. Conversely, if the target is outside the effective range (either too close or too far), the devicewill notify the user with an alternative alert, such as a red warning on the display, a sound indicating “out of range,” or a haptic vibration indicating the target is not suitable for engagement. The devicecan also provide recommendations for adjusting distance or ammunition type based on the target's position. These configurations can be adjusted and monitored remotely through a smartphone app connected wirelessly to the device. When the target is within the range, it can be considered safe. When the target is outside the range (i.e., under the minimum distance or beyond the maximum distance) the target is considered unsafe.

The device of the present disclosure can include any of a distance measurement sensor, an alignment/reference laser, a PCB hosting a microprocessor, power management features, and peripheral drivers, a haptic alert device, a display, an array of color LEDs, the mechanical enclosure, a power source, and an optional integrated day sight. The sensor will be presented within the mechanical enclosure so that it is generally aligned with the natural sights and/or sight plane of the host weapon. The laser will be mechanically coupled to and serve as a visual reference for aligning the sensor/laser pair to the host weapon. Provisions to manipulate the windage and elevation of the sensor/laser pair will be incorporated into the housing. The housing will also feature host-weapon mounting provisions, and optionally, an integral day optic. The sensor will operate in either a continuous fashion or a discontinuous fashion, initiated by the user. In either operational state, the display will be updated with real-time distance data. When a target falls within the effective range of the ammunition, the color LEDs will change from red to green (as an example, other colors may be employed; flashing may be implemented to accommodate colorblindness) and the haptic alert device will be deactivated, indicating that an appropriate set of conditions for engagement has been met. When the target distance falls below the minimum effective range of the ammunition, established by the user during setup/calibration, the color LEDs will be illuminated red and the haptic alert device will be activated. When the target distance is greater than the maximum effective range of the ammunition, established by the user during setup/calibration, the LEDs will change to red and the haptic alert device will be activated.

Furthermore, alerts will be perceptible to the user by means of vibration (haptic device), audible tone, audible tone passed to ear protection, or head-mounted communication devices, featuring speakers, or any combination of the above. In an embodiment whereby alerts are passed to ear protection devices, configuration of, and the alert and selection of the peripheral device, will be managed by means of a mobile device application (App), connected to the device in either a wireless or wired method. Alert patterns will be user configurable either through the App interface, or through the manipulation of the user interface/calibration button(s). All audio alerts passed to ear protection/speakers will inherit the current volume setting of the host device (mobile device). One feature of the invention is the ability to set the point at which the alert will occur. This may be done by means of User interface/Calibration button(s), App interface, or the like. In the embodiment where an App is not employed, the user will be able to set the alert by means of a calibration button(s), or selection switches. In the case of the calibration button(s), the user will enter into a menu structure where a numeric minimum and maximum range and corresponding units, will be selectable. In all cases, the mechanical housing will offer provisions for an accessory day-optic, typically a red-dot or reflex sight. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the user is offered the means to be alerted when a target is within range for a given less-than-lethal ammunition. For example, the device can mount to a 1913 rail or picatinny rail equipped firearm and will provide an interface for mounting an auxiliary sight upon it. Depending on the embodiment, the alert may be haptic, visual, audible, or some combination of the three. In another embodiment of the invention, the invention is incorporated into the geometry of a sighting device, eliminating the need for auxiliary sight mounting provisions. In another embodiment of the invention, the first embodiment is expanded to employ an accelerometer for the purposes of power management. In another embodiment of the invention, configuration of the invention's behavior will be configurable within a mobile device application. In another embodiment of the invention, the device may be configurable by means of a USB connection or a Bluetooth connection.

Disclosed is a device for the firearm, the device comprising a body structured to attach to a portion of the firearm and disposed in a sight plane with the firearm, a measurement device disposed in the sight plane and configured to determine a distance between a target and the user, a reference device disposed in the sight plane, at least one peripheral driver, a feedback array configured to provide a signal to the user based on the distance, and a processor and power source in communication with the device. The device can include wherein the device is configured to mount to a picatinny rail or a dovetail and is configured to receive an optic mounted on the body of the device. The device can further include a windage and elevation adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the optic. The device can include wherein the feedback array is configured to signal the user when the distance between the target and the user as determined by the measurement device falls outside a predetermined threshold.

The device can include wherein the feedback array is any of an audible alert device, a haptic alert device, or an LED display. The device can include further comprising an integrated day optic, such as the auxiliary optic. The device can include wherein the processor is configured to continuously update the feedback array based on the measured target distance. The device can include wherein the device is configured to operate in a continuous mode or a discontinuous mode initiated by the user. The device can include wherein the device is incorporated into the firearm optic. The device can further include an accelerometer configured for power management. The device can include wherein the feedback is responsive to a distance determination, and is configurable with any of a mobile device, a USB connection, a Bluetooth device, or one or more buttons disposed on the body. The device can include wherein the device is configured to provide the signal to an ancillary device. The device can include a laser disposed in the sight plane adapted for targeting. The device can include wherein the measurement device is a laser range finder.

Disclosed is a method implemented by the firearm device, the method comprising the steps of sampling via a measurement device a send and return signal computing a distance based on the sampling comparing the distance to a threshold to determine an effective range and alerting the user responsive to the determination. The method can include wherein the alert is any of a haptic alert, an audio alert, or a visual alert. The method can include wherein the alert is configured to indicate safe or unsafe use of nonlethal munitions. The method can include wherein the comparison is based off the user provided threshold. The method can include configuring the threshold via a mobile device, wherein the configuring includes adjusting one or more parameters. The method can include wherein the method is repeated in real time to dynamically adapt to changing distances between the user and the target.

As used herein, including in the claims, the phrases “at least one of” or “one or more of” a list of items refer to any combination of those items, including single members. For example, “at least one of: A, B, or C” covers the possibilities of: A only, B only, C only, a combination of A and B, a combination of A and C, a combination of B and C, and a combination of A, B, and C. Additionally, the terms “comprise,” “comprises,” “comprising,” “include,” “includes,” and “including” are intended to be non-limiting and open-ended. These terms specify essential elements or steps but do not exclude additional elements or steps, even when a claim or series of claims includes more than one of these terms.

While the present disclosure has been detailed and depicted through specific embodiments and examples, it is to be understood by those skilled in the art that numerous variations and modifications can perform equivalent functions or yield comparable results. Such alternative embodiments and variations, which may not be explicitly mentioned but achieve the objectives and adhere to the principles disclosed herein, fall within its spirit and scope. Accordingly, they are envisioned and encompassed by this disclosure, warranting protection under the claims associated herewith. That is, the present disclosure anticipates combinations and permutations of the described elements, operations, steps, methods, processes, algorithms, functions, techniques, modules, circuits, etc., in any manner conceivable, whether collectively, in subsets, or individually, further broadening the ambit of potential embodiments.

Although operations, steps, instructions, and the like are shown in the drawings in a particular order, this does not imply that they must be performed in that specific sequence or that all depicted operations are necessary to achieve desirable results. The drawings may schematically represent example processes as flowcharts or flow diagrams, but additional operations not depicted can be incorporated. For instance, extra operations can occur before, after, simultaneously with, or between any of the illustrated steps. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing might be beneficial. Furthermore, the separation of system components described should not be interpreted as mandatory for all implementations, as the program components and systems can be integrated into a single software product or distributed across multiple software products.

As used throughout, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a quantity of one of a particular element can comprise two or more such elements unless the context indicates otherwise. In addition, any of the elements described herein can be a first such element, a second such element, and so forth (e.g., a first widget and a second widget, even if only a “widget” is referenced).

Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect comprises from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about” or “substantially,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint.

For purposes of the current disclosure, a material property or dimension measuring about X or substantially X on a particular measurement scale measures within a range between X plus an industry-standard upper tolerance for the specified measurement and X minus an industry-standard lower tolerance for the specified measurement. Because tolerances can vary between different materials, processes, and between different models, the tolerance for a particular measurement of a particular component can fall within a range of tolerances.

As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description comprises instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.