DESC:4. DESCRIPTION
Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention pertains to military defense technology, specifically to weapon zeroing systems for battle tanks. It focuses on enhancing the accuracy, calibration, and operational efficiency of tank weaponry, ensuring precise targeting and improved combat effectiveness.

Background of the Invention

Zeroing a tank’s weapon system is a crucial process to ensure precision and accuracy in firing operations. Traditionally, this procedure relies on firing multiple live rounds at designated targets and making incremental adjustments based on observed deviations from the intended impact point. However, conventional zeroing methods pose several challenges, including high costs, logistical difficulties, and environmental factors that affect consistency, making precise weapon calibration inefficient and resource-intensive.

One of the primary limitations of traditional zeroing is its reliance on live ammunition, which incurs significant operational costs. Each round fired contributes to barrel wear, necessitating frequent maintenance and replacements, further increasing expenses. Additionally, the costs associated with ammunition production, transportation, and storage place a financial burden on military operations.

Moreover, the zeroing process is time-consuming, as it requires multiple test-firing rounds, adjustments, and recalibrations, diverting valuable time from mission preparedness and training. Coordinating personnel and securing designated firing ranges further prolong the procedure, reducing overall operational efficiency.

Environmental conditions such as wind, temperature, humidity, and terrain variations introduce inconsistencies in projectile trajectories, affecting zeroing accuracy. These unpredictable factors necessitate frequent recalibrations, making it challenging to achieve consistent results across different operational environments. Additionally, safety concerns and strict regulations limit opportunities for repeated training exercises using live ammunition, thereby restricting the skill development of tank operators.

To address these challenges, the present invention introduces an advanced Tank Zeroing System (TZS) that leverages laser-based calibration, bore scanning technology, and a simulated firing mechanism to enhance precision, efficiency, and training effectiveness while reducing reliance on live ammunition. The laser bore sighting system accurately aligns a tank’s weapon system by projecting laser beams along the bore axis, providing real-time feedback on a digital interface for precise adjustments. This eliminates the trial-and-error approach of traditional zeroing methods.

Additionally, bore scanning technology improves accuracy by detecting structural deformities within the barrel. A self-moving probe inserted into the barrel assesses straightness, internal dimensions, and deformations that could affect firing accuracy. This data is wirelessly transmitted to a display unit, allowing operators to identify and rectify issues before zeroing.

The simulated firing system and virtual smart target technology further enhance the process by enabling tank operators to conduct zeroing exercises without using live ammunition. A laser-based impact detection system records shot placement and provides instant feedback, facilitating quick and precise adjustments. This system ensures effective weapon calibration while significantly minimizing ammunition consumption.
By reducing the need for live firing, the Tank Zeroing System (TZS) lowers ammunition costs, decreases barrel wear, and reduces maintenance requirements. Its automation and real-time feedback mechanisms streamline the zeroing process, improving operational efficiency and reducing man-hours. Furthermore, the system’s capability to function in all weather conditions ensures consistent and reliable performance across diverse terrains, enhancing combat readiness.

The present invention represents a significant advancement in tank weapon zeroing by integrating modern laser calibration, bore assessment, and digital feedback technologies. By optimizing firing accuracy, reducing operational costs, and improving training effectiveness, this innovation offers military forces a cost-effective and precise solution for maintaining combat-ready weapon systems.

Objects of the Invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide a battle tank zeroing system that ensures highly accurate alignment of a tank’s weapon system while reducing dependence on conventional live-fire zeroing practices. The invention seeks to establish a structured workflow that integrates diagnostics, optical alignment, simulated validation, and live-fire confirmation into a single, cohesive framework.

Another object of the invention is to introduce a dual-laser bore sighting system that enables both long-range and short-range calibration. By employing two independent lasers in cooperation with a muzzle-mounted target and a distant target sensor board (10), the system allows precise alignment of the weapon system, thereby overcoming the limitations of single-laser devices used in prior art.

A further object of the invention is to provide an advanced bore scanner system capable of detecting bore straightness, droop, lateral bends, and diameter variations using a self-moving probe equipped with a rotating potentiometer, gyroscope, and accelerometer. This object emphasizes proactive maintenance and diagnostics to enhance barrel longevity, improve safety, and ensure accuracy before live firing is undertaken.

It is also an object of the invention to incorporate a simulated firing system that allows operators to conduct iterative alignment and zeroing exercises without using live ammunition. This non-lethal training mode enables cost savings, reduces barrel wear, and accelerates operator training, while maintaining a high degree of precision through real-time impact feedback and iterative adjustment.

Another important object of the invention is to develop a virtual smart target system for validating live firing exercises. By integrating firing point equipment (FPE), a master control system (MCS), target sensors, and a display unit, the system aims to provide immediate hit detection, real-time visualization, and data logging, thereby enabling effective calibration as well as post-exercise performance assessment.

It is also an object of the invention to provide a method of zeroing that combines bore diagnostics, dual-laser alignment, simulated verification, and live-fire confirmation in a sequential manner. The method ensures that deviations are iteratively corrected to within predetermined thresholds, thereby minimizing zeroing time, reducing ammunition consumption, and improving combat readiness of armored units.

A still further object of the invention is to ensure that the battle tank zeroing system is engineered for rugged, all-weather performance, operating reliably under conditions of extreme temperature, dust, humidity, and vibration, thereby making it suitable for deployment across diverse operational environments and terrains.

Brief Summary of the Invention

This summary provides a simplified overview of the invention to facilitate a basic understanding for the reader. It does not serve as a comprehensive review of the disclosure, nor does it define the critical elements or scope of the invention. Instead, it highlights key concepts that will be elaborated on in the detailed description.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a battle tank zeroing system designed to ensure precise alignment and calibration of a tank’s weapon system. The system integrates a simulated firing system, a dual-laser bore sighting system, a bore scanner system, and a virtual smart target system into a unified operational framework. Through this integration, the invention establishes a sequential workflow that includes diagnostic scanning, laser-based alignment, simulated validation, and live-fire confirmation, thereby reducing reliance on live ammunition, minimizing time required for zeroing, and improving overall firing accuracy.

In another aspect, the invention introduces a dual-laser bore sighting system configured for insertion from the breech end of the barrel. Unlike conventional single-laser devices, the bore sighting system employs two independent lasers—one dedicated to long-range alignment and the other for short-range calibration. These lasers function in conjunction with a muzzle-mounted alignment target and a distant target sensor board positioned at a distance of at least 1600 meters. By capturing coordinate-based deviations and displaying results on a ruggedized display unit, the system enables precise adjustments before live firing, ensuring accurate alignment of the bore axis with the intended line of fire.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a bore scanner system for internal barrel diagnostics. The bore scanner employs a self-propelled crawling probe equipped with a rotating potentiometer, a gyroscope, and an accelerometer to measure bore diameter variations, straightness, droop, and lateral bends. This multi-sensor fusion approach generates highly reliable data on bore condition, which is transmitted wirelessly to a display unit for real-time visualization. By proactively identifying structural deviations before firing, the bore scanner system enhances safety, prolongs barrel life, and ensures consistent firing performance.

In another aspect, the invention incorporates a simulated firing system that operates in conjunction with the dual-laser bore sighting system. This arrangement enables operators to conduct zeroing exercises without live ammunition. Simulated firing results are analyzed in real time, and iterative alignment corrections are made until deviation is reduced to within a predetermined threshold. This non-lethal mode of training not only conserves ammunition but also accelerates crew familiarization with weapon calibration procedures under safe and controlled conditions.

In yet another aspect, the invention provides a virtual smart target system that validates live firing exercises. The system includes a firing point equipment (FPE) for detecting shot placements, a master control system (MCS) for recording and analyzing firing exercises, target sensor equipment for precise impact detection, and a display unit for real-time visualization of hits. By offering instant impact feedback during live firing, the virtual smart target system ensures final calibration accuracy while enabling post-exercise performance evaluation of tank crews.

In an additional aspect, the invention delivers a method of operating the battle tank zeroing system as described above. The method comprises inserting the bore scanner probe into the barrel to detect deformities and transmit data, employing the dual-laser bore sighting for long- and short-range alignment, verifying alignment through simulated firing, and finalizing zeroing through live firing with the smart target system. The method establishes a closed-loop workflow that unifies structural diagnostics, optical alignment, simulated validation, and live-fire confirmation into a single operational cycle.

Taken together, the aspects of the present invention provide a robust and cost-effective solution for achieving highly accurate weapon zeroing in battle tanks. By combining dual-laser sighting, advanced bore diagnostics, iterative simulated firing, and smart target validation into a cohesive framework, the invention represents a significant advancement over conventional zeroing methods that rely heavily on live ammunition and manual adjustments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention will be further understood from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment taken in conjunction with an appended drawing, in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates a block diagram of the battle tank zeroing system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 illustrates a method of the battle tank zeroing system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Invention

It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

The use of “including”, “comprising” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Further, the use of terms “first”, “second”, and “third”, and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the battle tank zeroing system comprises four primary subsystems integrated into a unified operational framework. These include a simulated firing system, a dual-laser bore sighting system, a bore scanner system, and a virtual smart target system. Together, these subsystems establish a closed-loop process in which diagnostic barrel scanning, laser-based alignment, simulated validation, and live-fire confirmation are performed in sequence to achieve accurate zeroing with reduced ammunition consumption and enhanced operational efficiency.

In one embodiment, the invention introduces a dual-laser bore sighting system designed for insertion from the breech end of the barrel. Unlike conventional devices that rely on a single laser beam, this system employs two independent lasers, one optimized for long-range alignment and another dedicated to short-range calibration. A muzzle-mounted alignment target provides near-field reference, while a sensor board positioned at a long distance, typically at least 1600 meters, captures far-field laser impact coordinates. The integration of near-field and far-field references enables precise alignment of the bore axis with the desired line of fire. By incorporating this dual-laser configuration, the system significantly improves accuracy and eliminates trial-and-error adjustments associated with traditional bore sighting methods.

In another embodiment, the invention provides a bore scanner system configured for proactive structural diagnostics of the gun barrel. This system employs a self-propelled probe that traverses the barrel’s internal length, carrying sensors such as a rotating potentiometer, a gyroscope, and an accelerometer. These sensors measure internal diameter variations, detect droop, and identify lateral bends that could otherwise compromise firing accuracy. The data collected is transmitted wirelessly in real time to an external display unit for immediate visualization and analysis. By enabling operators to identify and rectify defects prior to firing, the bore scanner system enhances safety, reduces the risk of misaligned projectiles, and extends the service life of the barrel.

In yet another embodiment, the simulated firing system is integrated with the dual-laser bore sighting system to enable iterative zeroing exercises without the use of live ammunition. During this mode of operation, the system generates simulated firing events in which projected impacts are recorded and analyzed by a feedback and analysis unit. Based on the detected impact coordinates, the operator can make successive adjustments until the deviation between the bore axis and the intended target falls within a predetermined alignment threshold. This non-lethal training capability reduces ammunition usage, minimizes barrel wear, and accelerates the zeroing process, thereby improving both cost-effectiveness and training efficiency.

In a further embodiment, the system provides a virtual smart target for validating live firing exercises. The smart target comprises a set of interconnected subsystems including firing point equipment, a master control system, and impact detection sensors, all linked to a display interface. When live rounds are fired, the target system detects the point of impact and transmits the results instantly to the control and display units. This immediate feedback allows operators to confirm final alignment, make fine adjustments, and validate the effectiveness of previous simulated calibration. The integration of logging and analysis functions further ensures that training outcomes and system performance are archived for evaluation.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the invention also encompasses a method of operating the battle tank zeroing system. The method begins with diagnostic scanning of the barrel to detect structural deformities and continues with dual-laser alignment to achieve initial calibration. This is followed by iterative simulated firing to refine accuracy without live rounds and concludes with live firing against the virtual smart target to confirm and finalize zeroing. The sequential execution of these steps creates a closed-loop feedback cycle, wherein deviations are progressively minimized until alignment is achieved within a predetermined tolerance.

The system described in these embodiments is further designed for rugged, all-weather operation. It remains functional under extreme temperatures, dust, humidity, and vibration, making it suitable for diverse operational environments. Its modular design further enables adaptation to other heavy artillery platforms such as self-propelled guns, howitzers, and naval guns. By combining diagnostic measurement, dual-laser calibration, simulated training, and live-fire validation into a single solution, the invention offers a technical advancement over conventional zeroing methods, ensuring enhanced accuracy, reduced operational costs, and improved combat readiness.

Detailed Description of the Invention with Reference to the Figures
According to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, the battle tank zeroing system (100) is organized as an integrated platform comprising a simulated firing system (2), a dual laser bore sighting system (4), a bore scanner system (6), and a virtual smart target system (8). The system (100) is powered by an onboard energy source (20) and is linked through a wireless communication framework to ensure seamless coordination of subsystems. The design creates a closed-loop arrangement in which bore diagnostics, laser calibration, simulated verification, and live-fire confirmation are performed in sequence to establish highly precise zeroing.

The bore scanner system (6) consists of a measuring self-moving probe designed to crawl along the interior of the barrel. The probe carries a bore diameter measurement head that includes a rotating potentiometer, a gyroscope, and an accelerometer. As shown in step (21) of Figure 2, this arrangement allows the scanner to measure internal bore diameter, detect droop, and identify lateral bends. The acquired data is transmitted wirelessly in real time to a display unit in step (22), where deviations are presented graphically for immediate interpretation by the operator. For example, in one trial the scanner identified a lateral deviation of 0.3 mm at mid-barrel, which was beyond acceptable tolerance, and the defect was flagged before any live or simulated firing was undertaken.

The dual-laser bore sighting system (4), also illustrated in Figure 1, is inserted from the breech end of the barrel. At step (23) of Figure 2, two independent lasers are activated: one configured for long-range calibration and the other for short-range alignment. At step (24), a laser alignment target positioned at the muzzle and a target sensor board (10) placed at a distance of 1600 meters detect the laser beams and provide coordinate-based impact data. This dual-range calibration ensures that both coarse and fine alignment adjustments are possible. In a comparative example, when only a single laser was used for calibration, alignment errors of up to 0.5 mil were observed. By contrast, the dual-laser system achieved precision within ±0.1 mil at the same distance, demonstrating superior accuracy.

The simulated firing system (2) is configured to operate in conjunction with the bore sighting system (4). As represented in steps (25) and (26) of Figure 2, the system projects simulated rounds toward a target using laser emissions. The simulated impacts are processed by a real-time analysis unit, and the operator can iteratively adjust weapon alignment until the error is reduced below a predetermined threshold. In one working example, three simulated iterations were sufficient to bring deviation from 0.4 mil to 0.08 mil, thereby eliminating the need for multiple live-fire corrections.

The virtual smart target system (8) provides final validation through live firing, as illustrated in steps (27) and (28) of Figure 2. This subsystem integrates firing point equipment (FPE) (11) to record projectile launch data, a master control system (MCS) (12) to log and process firing sequences, and target sensors (10) embedded in the target frame. The sensors capture projectile impacts and transmit data to the display unit, which immediately visualizes the hit location for the crew. In a comparative trial, conventional zeroing required five live rounds and approximately 45 minutes to achieve satisfactory alignment. Using the system (100), only two live rounds were required after simulated calibration, reducing the total zeroing cycle to 15 minutes.

Method of Operation
According to an exemplary embodiment, the method of operating the battle tank zeroing system (200) begins with structural diagnostics of the barrel. In step (21), the bore scanner system (6) is inserted into the barrel from the breech end. The self-propelled crawling probe moves along the length of the barrel, and the integrated potentiometer, gyroscope, and accelerometer measure the bore diameter, detect droop, and identify lateral bends or irregularities. In step (22), these structural measurements are transmitted wirelessly to a ruggedized display unit, where they are processed and visualized in real time. This preliminary diagnostic ensures that any internal deformities are identified before proceeding to alignment, thereby reducing risk of inaccuracy and unsafe firing conditions.

In step (23), once the barrel is verified to be within acceptable tolerance, the dual-laser bore sighting system (4) is inserted from the breech end. Two independent lasers are activated: one calibrated for long-range alignment and the other optimized for short-range calibration. The long-range laser beam is projected toward a sensor board (10) positioned at least 1600 meters from the muzzle, while the short-range laser beam is detected by a muzzle-mounted alignment target. In step (24), the correlation of near-field and far-field data establishes a coordinate-based reference of the bore axis relative to the intended line of fire. This dual-reference system enables precise calibration that compensates for deviations along both short and extended ranges, ensuring accuracy beyond the capability of conventional single-laser devices.

Following alignment, the system transitions to non-lethal validation through simulated firing. At step (25), the simulated firing system (2) generates a projected firing event, and in step (26) the resulting impact data is captured by the real-time feedback and analysis unit. The displayed impact positions are compared against expected coordinates, and iterative corrections are made until the deviation is reduced to within a predetermined threshold, typically =0.1 mil at 1600 meters. This stage allows multiple calibration cycles to be conducted without using live ammunition. In one working example, three simulated firing iterations progressively reduced deviation from 0.4 mil to 0.08 mil, establishing satisfactory alignment prior to live-fire validation.

In step (27), live firing is undertaken against the virtual smart target system (8). The firing point equipment (11) records projectile launch data, while the master control system (12) synchronizes and processes firing events. The target sensors (10) embedded in the smart target capture the impact positions of live rounds, and in step (28) this information is transmitted to the display unit for immediate visualization. If deviations are detected, further fine adjustments are made until zeroing is confirmed. In controlled testing, alignment was achieved with only two live rounds within fifteen minutes, compared to five rounds and forty-five minutes required by conventional methods.

The best mode of operating the method (200) involves completing at least three simulated firing iterations following dual-laser alignment before live-fire validation is conducted. This sequence ensures that residual deviations are minimized, reducing ammunition consumption and time required for zeroing. In further embodiments, the method includes refinements wherein alignment is iteratively adjusted until deviation falls within 0.1 mil, latency between impact detection and visualization remains below 100 milliseconds, and predictive correction algorithms analyze historical bore data to recommend further adjustments. These refinements provide a robust, repeatable, and field-ready methodology for achieving and maintaining precise battle tank zeroing.

Alternate Embodiments
While the foregoing embodiments describe the integration of a bore scanner system (6), dual-laser bore sighting system (4), simulated firing system (2), and virtual smart target system (8) for a battle tank, the present invention is not limited to such configurations. In an alternate embodiment, the bore scanner system (6) may employ a wired data transmission interface instead of wireless communication, enabling secure operation in environments where radio-frequency emissions are restricted. The scanner probe may also incorporate additional sensors, such as strain gauges or thermal sensors, to monitor barrel fatigue and temperature gradients during extended operation.

In another embodiment, the dual-laser bore sighting system (4) may utilize lasers of varying wavelengths to enable differential optical alignment and enhanced detection by multispectral sensor boards (10). The bore sighting system (4) may further include a self-leveling mechanism or an auto-calibration feature to simplify deployment in field conditions.

The simulated firing system (2) may, in alternative configurations, be adapted to interface with virtual reality training environments, allowing crews to undergo zeroing and calibration exercises in immersive settings without physical ammunition or targets. In ruggedized field variants, the simulated firing system (2) may be configured for wired synchronization with the smart target (8) to maintain closed-loop accuracy in electronic countermeasure environments.

In further embodiments, the virtual smart target system (8) may be scaled for different calibers, including large artillery guns, naval cannons, and mobile howitzers. The firing point equipment (11) and master control system (12) may incorporate machine learning algorithms trained on historical firing patterns to predict deviations and recommend corrective actions.

The invention may also be embodied in systems designed for extreme operational environments. The components may be ruggedized to operate across temperature ranges from –40 °C to +55 °C, with moisture-proofing and dust-sealing for desert and arctic deployments. In certain embodiments, portable versions of the system may be deployed for rapid calibration of mobile artillery units, while fixed installations may be used for continuous monitoring in training academies and testing ranges.

These alternate embodiments illustrate that the present invention is adaptable across different weapon platforms and operational scenarios, and that modifications in configuration, sensor selection, communication mode, or system integration fall within the scope of the disclosed battle tank zeroing system (100) and method of operation (200).

Applications, Advantages, and Test Standards with Results
The battle tank zeroing system (100) is applicable across a variety of military training and operational scenarios where precise alignment of heavy weapon systems is critical. In one scenario, the system (100) can be deployed during initial crew training exercises. The simulated firing system (2) and the dual-laser bore sighting system (4) allow new recruits to practice iterative alignment and firing without expending live ammunition. This training mode enables repeated cycles of calibration and verification through the real-time analysis unit until satisfactory alignment is achieved. The bore scanner system (6) further ensures that each training cycle begins with a barrel that has been structurally verified, thereby reducing the risk of improper instruction caused by undetected defects.

In another scenario, the system (100) is used during periodic maintenance of operational tank fleets. The bore scanner system (6) employing its crawling probe and associated sensors provides a proactive diagnostic check of the barrel before deployment. Deviations such as droop, lateral bends, or diameter variations are identified at step (21), and the results transmitted at step (22) can be archived for longitudinal analysis. When combined with the dual-laser calibration steps (23, 24), this maintenance cycle guarantees that the weapon system remains within defined tolerance limits without requiring multiple rounds of live-fire verification.

The system (100) is also applicable in forward deployment zones where time, ammunition, and logistics are severely constrained. In such conditions, the sequence of simulated firing iterations (25, 26) reduces the number of live rounds needed for confirmation firing at steps (27, 28). The virtual smart target (8), through its firing point equipment (11), master control system (12), and target sensors (10), provides immediate confirmation of impacts and transmits them to the display unit for visualization. By minimizing ammunition requirements and shortening zeroing time, the system (100) allows armored units to maintain combat readiness in demanding operational environments.

The invention further provides advantages in terms of accuracy, efficiency, and resource utilization. The dual-laser bore sighting system (4) has been demonstrated to achieve alignment accuracy within ±0.1 mil at a target distance of 1600 meters. This level of precision is superior to conventional single-laser devices, which exhibited errors of up to 0.5 mil under the same test conditions. The bore scanner system (6) with its potentiometer, gyroscope, and accelerometer combination is capable of detecting barrel deviations as small as 0.05 mm, ensuring that even minor structural imperfections are identified and corrected before firing. By integrating diagnostic scanning, simulated training, and live-fire validation into one sequential framework, the system (100) reduces the number of live rounds required from five in conventional practice to only two, while also reducing zeroing time from forty-five minutes to fifteen minutes.

Validation of the system (100) has been conducted under controlled test standards to ensure consistency and reliability. In one series of tests, the bore scanner system (6) was benchmarked against reference measurement tools to confirm its accuracy in detecting droop and lateral bends. In another series, the dual-laser bore sighting system (4) was calibrated against known alignment benchmarks at 1600 meters, confirming repeatable alignment within the specified tolerance range. Further, the simulated firing system (2) and smart target system (8) were tested in combination to verify latency of less than 100 milliseconds between simulated or live impact detection and visualization at the display unit (28). These results demonstrate that the integrated system (100) not only meets but exceeds conventional standards of alignment accuracy, feedback speed, and overall efficiency.

Taken together, these applications and test results confirm that the battle tank zeroing system (100) delivers significant operational advantages. The integration of the bore scanner (6), the dual-laser bore sighting (4), the simulated firing (2), and the smart target (8) provides a technically advanced solution that ensures accuracy, reduces ammunition expenditure, and accelerates zeroing cycles. The extensive test data and repeatable performance outcomes support the sufficiency of disclosure, while the clarity of the subsystem functions eliminates ambiguity in scope or definitiveness.

Comparative Analysis
Conventional battle tank zeroing methods typically rely on single-laser bore sighting devices inserted at the muzzle end of the barrel. These devices provide only a limited reference point, often resulting in alignment errors of up to ±0.5 mil at long distances. Further, traditional approaches do not incorporate internal barrel diagnostics, leaving droop, bends, or dimensional irregularities undetected until after firing. As a result, crews are often required to expend multiple live rounds to compensate for undiagnosed errors, thereby increasing cost, time, and barrel wear.

By contrast, the present battle tank zeroing system (100) introduces a dual-laser bore sighting system (4) inserted from the breech end, offering both near-field and far-field references. This configuration consistently achieves accuracy within ±0.1 mil at 1600 meters, a performance that conventional single-laser devices fail to deliver. The inclusion of the bore scanner system (6), equipped with a potentiometer, gyroscope, and accelerometer, further distinguishes the invention by proactively detecting deviations as small as 0.05 mm. This capability ensures that structural errors are identified before alignment begins, a feature absent in traditional systems.

In terms of operational efficiency, conventional zeroing typically requires five or more live rounds and approximately forty-five minutes to achieve satisfactory alignment. The present system (100), by incorporating simulated firing (2) and iterative corrections before live-fire, reduces the requirement to only two live rounds and shortens the process to approximately fifteen minutes. This reduction is achieved without compromising accuracy, due to the closed-loop sequence of bore scanning, dual-laser calibration, simulated validation, and smart target confirmation.

Additionally, conventional impact detection methods often involve manual observation or delayed data logging, resulting in latency and reduced training value. The virtual smart target system (8) of the present invention integrates firing point equipment (11), a master control system (12), and target sensors (10) to provide real-time visualization with latency of less than 100 milliseconds. This immediate feedback enables crews to finalize zeroing with confidence, a feature not available in conventional setups.

Taken together, this comparative analysis demonstrates that the present invention represents a significant technical advancement over conventional zeroing methods. It combines structural diagnostics, dual-laser calibration, iterative simulated training, and live-fire validation into a single integrated solution, thereby overcoming the limitations of prior art in terms of accuracy, efficiency, and reliability.

Comparative Advantages in Training
A significant advantage of the battle tank zeroing system (100) lies in its ability to enhance crew training by reducing dependence on live ammunition and specialized firing ranges. Conventional training practices often require the use of multiple live rounds, typically five or more, to achieve satisfactory zeroing of the weapon system. This process not only consumes valuable ammunition but also necessitates access to dedicated firing ranges, which are limited in availability and impose substantial logistical and scheduling challenges. In addition, live-fire training is associated with increased barrel wear and operational risks, particularly when inexperienced crews are undergoing initial training.

By contrast, the present invention integrates a simulated firing system (2) with a dual-laser bore sighting system (4) and a virtual smart target system (8) to create a closed-loop training workflow that can be conducted without live rounds. Trainees are able to perform multiple alignment iterations using simulated firing, reducing error progressively until the deviation is brought within a predetermined threshold. In one working scenario, crews achieved alignment accuracy of =0.1 mil after three simulated iterations, thereby minimizing the number of live rounds required for final validation.

This approach provides measurable benefits in training efficiency. Instead of requiring forty-five minutes and five live rounds, the system (100) enabled crews to complete zeroing exercises in fifteen minutes using only two live rounds. The reduction in time and ammunition not only conserves resources but also allows training cycles to be repeated more frequently, enabling crews to develop proficiency at a faster rate. Moreover, the inclusion of a bore scanner system (6) ensures that training can be conducted with verified barrel integrity, enhancing safety during repetitive exercises.

In addition, the virtual smart target system (8), supported by the firing point equipment (11) and master control system (12), provides immediate visual confirmation of impacts with latency of less than 100 milliseconds. This real-time feedback improves the learning curve by allowing trainees to instantly correlate alignment adjustments with results, a capability not available in conventional range-based training. Together, these advantages make the invention highly suited for institutional training academies as well as field-level crew training, where efficiency, safety, and repeatability are paramount.
,CLAIMS:5. CLAIMS
We claim:
1. A battle tank zeroing system (100), comprising:
a simulated firing system (2) including a laser bore sighting (4), a virtual smart target (8), and a real-time feedback and analysis unit for zeroing and target practice without live ammunition;
the laser bore sighting (4) configured for insertion from the breech end of the barrel, employing at least one laser in cooperation with a laser detector unit and a display unit for alignment and calibration;
a bore scanner system (6) comprising a measuring self-moving probe, a bore diameter measurement head, a gyroscope, and an accelerometer for scanning internal barrel conditions; and
a smart target system (8) comprising a firing point equipment (FPE) (11), a master control system (MCS) (12), target sensor equipment (10), and a display unit for detecting live shot placements and providing impact feedback;
Characterized in that,
the laser bore sighting (4) comprises two independent lasers, one configured for long-range alignment and another for short-range calibration, in combination with a muzzle-mounted laser alignment target and a distant target sensor board positioned at a distance of at least 1600 meters, thereby enabling coordinate-based alignment adjustments;
the bore scanner system (6) comprises a self-propelled crawling probe equipped with a rotating potentiometer, the gyroscope, and the accelerometer, configured to detect bore straightness, droop, lateral bends, and internal deformities, and to transmit real-time structural data wirelessly to a ruggedized display unit;
the simulated firing system (2) is integrated with the laser bore sighting (4) to enable laser-based simulated firing exercises, wherein impact points are analyzed in real-time to iteratively adjust zeroing without live ammunition;
the smart target system (8) is configured for closed-loop validation, wherein the FPE (11) records live round impacts, the MCS (12) provides instant feedback with less than a predetermined latency, and the display unit visualizes hit positions to confirm and refine weapon zeroing; and
the system (100) thereby provides a sequential diagnostic-alignment-simulation-validation workflow, reducing ammunition consumption, minimizing zeroing time, and achieving alignment precision within a predetermined threshold.

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the dual-laser bore sighting (4) achieves alignment accuracy within ±0.1 mil at 1600 meters.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bore scanner system (6) detects internal bore diameter deviations of less than ±0.05 mm.

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bore scanner system (6) identifies droop or lateral bend exceeding 0.2 mm along the barrel length.

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the simulated firing system (2) incorporates a zoom and pan feature for enhanced target visualization.

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the smart target system (8) provides real-time visualization of impact points with latency of less than 100 milliseconds.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the master control system (MCS) (12) logs firing exercises for post-event analysis and training evaluation.

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system operates reliably in extreme environments including a temperature range of –40°C to +55°C, and is resistant to dust, humidity, and vibration.

9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the bore scanner system (6) further integrates predictive algorithms for correction recommendations based on repeated scanning patterns.

10. A method (200) of operating the battle tank zeroing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising the steps of:
inserting the bore scanner system (6) into the barrel to measure internal bore dimensions and detect deformities using a self-moving probe, a rotating potentiometer, a gyroscope, and an accelerometer, and transmitting real-time bore data wirelessly to a display unit (21, 22);
inserting the dual-laser bore sighting system (4) from the breech end and activating the long-range and short-range lasers for alignment with a muzzle-mounted laser alignment target and a target sensor board (10) positioned at least 1600 meters away (23, 24);
verifying alignment by using the simulated firing system (2) integrated with the laser bore sighting (4), analyzing laser-based impact feedback in real time, and adjusting alignment iteratively until deviation is reduced within a defined threshold (25, 26); and
conducting live firing using the smart target system (8), wherein the Firing Point Equipment (FPE) (11) records shot placements, the Master Control System (MCS) (12) provides immediate impact feedback, and the display unit (28) visualizes the hit positions to finalize zeroing (27, 28).

6. DATE AND SIGNATURE

Dated this on 13th September 2025.

Signature

(Mr. Srinivas Maddipati)
IN/PA 3124-In house Patent Agent
For., Zen Technologies Limited