DESC:DESCRIPTION

Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention relates tothe field of educational and training means.More particularly it relates to a containerized crew gunnery simulator for improvement in training of raw trainees and commanders in various functions.

Background of the Invention

The T-90 is a third-generation battle tank. It uses a 125 mm 2A46 smoothbore main gun, a fire-control system, an upgraded engine, and gunner's thermal sight. Standard protective measures include a blend of steel and composite armour, smoke grenade dischargers, an Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA) and an infrared Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) jamming system.

In 2001, India purchased 310 T-90 tanks from Russia. The T-90 was selected because it is a direct development of the T-72 that India already manufactured, simplifying training and maintenance.

As India has a significant fleet of T-90 tanks in its inventory, there is a need for effective and efficient training of tank crews to operate and maintain these tanks. Additionally, with the aim of achieving self-reliance and indigenization of defence production, the Indian government has emphasized the development of domestic defence technologies and manufacturing capabilities.

Therefore, a domestically manufactured training simulator for the T-90 tank would provide several benefits to the Indian armed forces. First, it would enable cost-effective training of tank crews without the need to rely on expensive imported simulators. Second, a domestically manufactured simulator would allow for customization and tailoring of the training program to meet specific operational requirements and scenarios. Third, it would support the development of domestic defence technologies and manufacturing capabilities, contributing to the country's self-reliance and indigenization goals.

Overall, the requirement for a domestically manufactured training simulator for the T-90 tank in India is driven by the need for effective and cost-efficient training of tank crews, as well as the broader goal of achieving self-reliance and indigenization in defence production.

Inventors identified this need to introduce a simulation system for war tankers which imitates real tank experience in order to perform operations efficiently and risk free. They foundits very important that physical conditions in the war tankers for firing operations should be simulated. The inconvenience experienced by gunners during operation is simulated by providing the same space as in war tankers. All the devices and equipment should be as per their actual sizes.The inventors studied the vital requirements to design and develop the improved containerized indoor tank basic gunnery simulator which includes vital controls for the gunner and at the commander station.

Prior art in the field of tank simulators includes various systems developed by military and defence companies worldwide. For example, the US Army developed the Close Combat Tactical Trainer (CCTT), which is a simulator for armoured vehicle crew training. The CCTT includes multiple simulators for different armoured vehicles, including the M1 Abrams tank.

In Russia, a company called OSK-Uralvagonzavod has developed a simulator for the T-90 tank, which includes a 360-degree panoramic display, an instructor station, and a gunner station. The simulator allows for realistic training scenarios, including firing at moving targets and night-time operations.

Another prior art is a simulator system for a tank gunner's training, which was patented by SK Chemicals Co. Ltd. in South Korea. The simulator includes a screen that displays a virtual battlefield, and a replica gunner's sight and controls for the trainee to operate. The system also includes a tracking device to monitor the trainee's movements and provide feedback on accuracy and speed.

These prior art systems demonstrate the importance of simulators for tank crew training and highlight the need for customized and adaptable simulators to meet specific operational requirements. The T-90 crew gunnery simulator proposed in this invention enables the training of both gunners and commanders in a simulated tank environment.
The T-90 crew gunnery simulator addresses these needs by providing a cost-effective, domestically manufactured simulator that accurately simulates battlefield conditions and provides performance evaluations for trainees.

The present invention discloses war tanker simulator designed and developed to meet the standard training requirements of gunners (crew gunnery) through Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) simulates battlefield conditions and the audio system produces the sounds of battlefield and firing.

The said system calculates the errors made by trainees during different drills and exercises. After an exercise, the performance evaluation report can be seen and printed, which helps gunners identify their shortcomings and improve their skills.

Furthermore, the applicant has filed several co-pending patent applications, all of which have a priority date of 24-03-2022. These include India App. No. 202141060623 for a containerized driving simulator, India App. No. 202141060624 for a containerized driving simulator, India App. No. 202141060625 for a containerized crew gunnery simulator system, India App. No. 202141060626 for a containerized basic gunnery simulator, India App. No. 202141060627 for a basic gunnery training simulator, India App. No. 202141060628 for a containerized driving simulator, and India App. No. 202141060629 for a containerized driving simulator system. These applications are all related to the development of various simulators for training purposes, including driving and gunnery simulators that are containerized for easy transportation and use in different locations.

Brief Summary of the Invention

The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding to the reader. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure, and it does not identify key/critical elements of the invention or delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The present invention is based on the simulation model tank thatimproves training of gunners and commanders in various functions relating selection, prioritizing, target engagement and operation of controls in T-90 tank is disclosed.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a comprehensive crew gunnery simulator system that enables the training of both gunners and commanders in a simulated tank environment.

It is another object of the present invention to offer a highly immersive and interactive training experience that closely replicates the sights, sounds, and motion of an actual tank, thereby enhancing the trainee's ability to acquire and retain critical skills.

It is another object of the present invention to incorporate advanced motion platform technology that provides realistic pitch, roll, and surge moments to simulate the effects of tank movements and firing, which allows for more realistic and effective training in various conditions.

It is an object of the present invention to integrate sophisticated visual, audio, and communication systems that enable the trainees to communicate with each other and receive realistic feedback during training exercises.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a user-friendly and versatile instructor station that enables instructors to easily set up, monitor, and control the training exercises, while providing a wide range of customizable options to meet specific training needs.

It is an object of the present invention toenable the use of multiple visual stations that allow trainees to experience a wide range of perspectives and scenarios, including gunner and commander views, to enhance situational awareness and decision-making skills.

It is an object of the present invention tooffer a highly reliable and durable system that can withstand repeated use and transport, while also being easily maintained and repaired when needed.

According to an aspect of the invention, the present invention is a containerized T-90 tank crew gunnery simulator system. The simulator system includes an instructor station, an instructor station console rack, a gunner cabin, a commander cabin, and a 3-degree-of-freedom (DOF) motion platform placed in a container assembly. The gunner cabin and commander cabin are mounted on the motion platform for a realistic motion feel during firing in different conditions. The cabins contain all the devices, controls, sights, communication, and sound equipment to train the gunner and commander. The simulator system comprises modules that integrate seamlessly to provide training value to gunners and commanders.

In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the input-output station software gives motion control outputs to the motion platform through the motion control unit. The sense of gun recoil is provided by synthesized computer-generated imagery in combination with an electric motion platform and audio cues.

In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the simulator system provides realistic simulation of battlefield conditions, 3D CGI-based scenarios, realistic sound simulation, a wide variety of Indian sub-continent terrains, environmental conditions, and can be easily operated. The instructor station software enables the instructor to set up, initiate, record, monitor, and control the training sessions effectively.

In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the input-output station software comprises an electronic interface unit and communication software present in the instructor station computer to receive data from various sensors and transmit them to the visual station and instructor station CPUs for appropriate action.

The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in several ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for description and should not be regarded as limiting.

Further objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be readily apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The above and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from a consideration of the following detailed description presented in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates the system with container assembly comprising a said gunner cabin and a commander cabin installed on a trainee cabin located on a motion platform for training purpose according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 illustrates the systemof said containerized trainee simulator system disclosing various components of the said simulator, according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 3 illustrates the said trainee cabin comprising gunner cabin and commander cabin integrated with said containerized simulator exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig.4 illustrates the block diagram disclosing various components within said containerized simulator system according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

It is appreciated that not all aspects and structures of the present invention are visible in a single drawing, and as such multiple views of the invention are presented so as to clearly show the structures of the 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.

The present invention relates toT-90 main battle tank crew gunnery simulator, and the controls available for the gunner and commander.The gunner's controls are located in the gunner cabin and include a joystick for aiming the main gun, a range-finding device, and a laser rangefinder. The gunner also has access to a thermal imaging system, ballistic computer, and ammunition selection panel.

The commander's controls are located in the commander cabin and include a panoramic sight with thermal imaging capabilities, a laser rangefinder, and a control panel for the tank's weapons and sensors. The commander also has access to a GPS navigation system, radio, and intercom for communication with other crew members.

Both crew members have access to a control panel for the tank's movement and engine systems, as well as various gauges and indicators for monitoring the tank's status.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention,the crew gunnery simulator system comprises an instructor station with a console rack, a gunner cabinand a commander cabin mounted on a 3 degrees of freedom (DOF) motion platformwith a motion control unit, a ladder unit, a gunner sensing assembly, and a switching unit in the gunner cabin.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the crew gunnery simulator system comprisesa commander sensing assembly and another switching unit in the commander cabin. The crew gunnery simulator system comprisesan instructor station software module and a visual station with a visual station software.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the crew gunnery simulator system comprisesa projector mounted on top of the container assembly to project the simulated battlefield onto a screen or wall in front of the motion platform.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the crew gunnery simulator system comprisesan input-output station with an input-output software, which includes two input-output control units: a gunner input-output control unit and a commander input-output control unit.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the crew gunnery simulator system comprisesa communication software module that networks all the stations together sound simulation, audio communication, and projection systems.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the crew gunnery simulator system characterized in that,the gunner cabin and the commander cabin are mounted on the motion platform for low maintenance cost.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the crew gunnery simulator system characterized in that,the gunners and commanders are provided with the feel of a tank, with all the controls and instruments inside the trainee cabins being replicated.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the crew gunnery simulator system characterized in that,the gunner sensing assembly and commander sensing assembly each comprise cameras, microphones, and sensors to track the movements and actions of the gunner and commanderduring training sessions.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the crew gunnery simulator system characterized in that,the switching unit at the gunner cabinand the other switching unit at the commander cabin allow the gunner and commanderto switch between different views and modes of the simulator system.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the crew gunnery simulator system characterized in that,the modules integrate seamlessly to provide training value to gunners and commanders.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the instructor station software module of the crew gunnery simulator system allows the instructor to set up, initiate, record, monitor, and control the training sessions.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the input-output station software includes an electronic interface unit and a communication software that receives data from various sensors and transmits them to the visual stationand the instructor station CPUs for appropriate action.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the input-output station software provides the motion control outputs to the motion platform through the motion control unit.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the sense of gun recoil is provided by synthesized computer-generated imagery combined with the electric motion platform and audio cues.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the input-output station includes an electronic interface unit and communication software present in the instructor station computer that receives data from various sensors and transmits them to the visual station and the instructor station for appropriate action.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the instructor station software module includes a database of pre-designed scenarios, targets, and conditions for training sessions, which can be customized by the instructor as needed.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the visual station software includes a 3D graphics engine, which generates realistic images of the simulated battlefield and targets based on the data received from the input-output station.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the input-output station software includes a data logging and analysis module, which records and analyzes the data from the various sensors and controls during training sessions and provides feedback to the instructor and trainees for performance improvement.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the gunner cabin and commander cabin are designed to accurately replicate the controls and instruments found inside a T90 tank. This includes controls such as the gunner's joystick and trigger, the commander's cupola controls, and the various gauges and displays found in the cabin.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the gunner sensing assembly and commander sensing assembly use advanced tracking technology to precisely monitor the movements and actions of the trainees during training sessions. This allows for accurate feedback and analysis of performance.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the switching units inside the gunner and commander cabins allow for seamless switching between different views and modes of the simulator system, including different weapon systems and views from different crew members.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the communication software module not only networks all the stations together, but also provide realistic audio communication between crew members, as well as sound simulation for weapons and other battlefield effects.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the ladder unit inside the gunner cabin allows for realistic training in entering and exiting the tank, as well as maintenance and inspection procedures.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the input-output station software includes a virtual targeting system that allows the trainees to practice targeting and firing at virtual targets on the simulated battlefield.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the instructor station software module includes a debriefing tool that allows for analysis and discussion of the training sessions after they are completed.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the visual station software includes a weather simulation module, allowing for training in various weather conditions and their effects on the battlefield.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the crew gunnery simulator system can be integrated with other simulation systems, such as vehicle simulators, to provide a more comprehensive training experience for crew members.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the crew gunnery simulator system can be used not only for initial training, but also for ongoing proficiency training and certification of crew members.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method of training crew members of a tank using the crew gunnery simulator system isdisclosed. Themethod comprises the steps of:
a) instructing the gunner and commander using the instructor station software module;
b) simulating firing scenarios using the gunner cabin and commander cabinmounted on the 3 DOF motion platform with a motion control unit;
c) providing realistic motion feel during firing in different conditions using the electro-mechanical motion platform;
d) providing audio cues and synthesized computer generated imagery to simulate the sense of gun recoil;
e) monitoring and analyzing the training sessions using the monitoring screens on the instructor station;
f) controlling the training sessions using the instructor station;
g) recording the training sessions for later review and analysis; and
h) replicating all the controls and instruments inside the gunner cabin and commander cabin to give the gunner and commander the feel of the original tank.

Referring now to diagrams,
Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the present invention, a containerized crew gunnery simulator system (100), which includes a gunner cabin (3) and a commander cabin (4) installed on a motion platform (5) within a container assembly (6). The motion platform (5) provides 3 degrees of freedom (pitch, roll, and surge) to simulate the motion of an actual tank. The system (100) also includes an instructor station (1), an instructor station console rack (2), a ladder unit (17), gunner sensing assembly (18), commander sensing assembly (18), and switching units (19, 20). The instructor station (1) includes an instructor station software module, and the system (100) is networked together with a communication software module. A visual station (14) with a visual station software and an input-output station (15) with an input-output software are also provided. The instructor station console rack includes various components such as battery boxes, amplifiers, power supplies, KVM switches, UPS systems, and CPUs to support the system's operational requirements.

The gunner cabin (3) and commander cabin (4) are installed on the motion platform (5) and are replicas of the turret of an actual tank. The motion platform (5) provides 3 DOF (pitch, roll, and surge) movements, simulating the experience of firing a tank's weapons in different conditions. The system also includes sound simulation, audio communication, and projection systems.

Figure 2 shows a detailed view of the instructor station (1), which includes four monitoring screens (7) for analyzing and monitoring four views. The instructor station console rack includes CPUs, KVM switches, multipliers, Ethernet switches, amplifiers, UPS systems, and batteries. The gunner cabin (3) and commander cabin (4) contain all the controls, sights, communication equipment, and sound equipment related to a gunner (8) and a commander (9), respectively.

The instructor station (1) features four monitoring screens (7) for monitoring and analyzing four views run by the instructor station software module. The console rack (2) includes CPUs, KVM switches, multipliers, Ethernet switches, amplifier, UPS, and batteries. The input-output station (15) has an electronic interface unit and communication software that receives data from various sensors and transmits them to the visual station (14) and instructor station CPUs.

Figure 3 illustrates the input-output control units (10, 11) that serve as an interface between the controls and a system operated software consisting of a plurality of PCBs (12) and cables (13) connecting to different controls. The gunner cabin (3) and commander cabin (4) are replicas of the turret of an actual tank and contain all the devices, controls, sights, communication equipment, and sound equipment required for training purposes.

The control units present in the simulator system, including two input-output units that serve as an interface between controls and a system-operated software. One unit works as a gunner input-output control unit (10) and the other as a commander input-output control unit (11). The gunner cabin (3) and commander cabin (4) contain all the devices, controls, sights, communication, and sound equipment required to train gunners (8) and commanders (9).

Figure 4 provides a block diagram of the components present in the system, including the gunner and commander cabins mounted on the motion platform, visual stations, and the instructor console running various software modules. The instructor station software module enables the instructor to set up, initiate, record, monitor, and control the training sessions effectively. The input-output station (15) software includes an electronic interface unit and communication software to receive data from various sensors and transmit them to the visual station (14) and instructor station CPUs for appropriate action. The system is designed to provide a realistic simulation of the tank's motion, sound, and other features to provide an effective training experience for gunners and commanders.

The instructor station software module allows the instructor to set up, initiate, record, monitor, and control training sessions effectively. The input-output station software includes an electronic interface unit and communication software present in the instructor station monitoring screens (7) to receive data from various sensors and transmit them to the appropriate components.

In conclusion, the crew gunnery simulator system (100) described in the detailed description provides a comprehensive and immersive training experience for gunners and commanders of tanks. The system comprises multiple components such as the instructor station, gunner cabin, commander cabin, motion platform, ladder unit, sensing assemblies, switching units, visual station, input-output station, and communication software module that work seamlessly to provide a realistic training environment. The system replicates all the controls and instruments inside the trainee cabins to give the gunner and commander the feel of the original tank. The electro-mechanical motion platform provides a realistic motion feel during firing in different conditions, and audio cues and synthesized computer-generated imagery simulate the sense of gun recoil. The system's software modules allow the instructor to set up, initiate, record, monitor, and control the training sessions. The input-output station software includes a data logging and analysis module that records and analyzes the data from various sensors and controls during training sessions and provides feedback to the instructor and trainees for performance improvement. The system also includes a database of pre-designed scenarios, targets, and conditions for training sessions that can be customized by the instructor as needed. Overall, the crew gunnery simulator system (100) provides a valuable tool for training crew members of tanks in a safe and controlled environment.

The features and functions described above, as well as alternatives, may be combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements may be made by those skilled in the art, each of which is also intended to be encompassed by the disclosed embodiments.

The described exemplary embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. Variations in the arrangement of the structure are possible falling within the scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
,CLAIMS:CLAIMS
I/We Claim
1. A crew gunnery simulator system (100) comprising:
an instructor station (1) with a console rack (2);
a gunner cabin (3) and a commander cabin (4) mounted on a 3 degrees of freedom (DOF) motion platform (5) with a motion control unit (16);
a ladder unit (17), a gunner sensing assembly (18), and a switching unit (19) in the gunner cabin (3);
a commander sensing assembly (18) and another switching unit (20) in the commander cabin (4);
an instructor station software module and a visual station (14) with a visual station software;
a projector (21) mounted on top of the container assembly (6) to project the simulated battlefield onto a screen or wall in front of the motion platform (5);
an input-output station (15) with an input-output software, which includes two input-output control units: a gunner input-output control unit (10) and a commander input-output control unit (11);
a communication software module that networks all the stations togethersound simulation, audio communication, and projection systems;
Characterized in that,
the gunner cabin (3) and the commander cabin (4) are mounted on the motion platform (5)for low maintenance cost;
the gunners and commanders are provided with the feel of a tank, with all the controls and instruments inside the trainee cabins being replicated;
the gunner sensing assembly (18) and commander sensing assembly (18) each comprise cameras, microphones, and sensors to track the movements and actions of the gunner (8) and commander (9) during training sessions;

the switching unit (19) at the gunner cabin (3) and the other switching unit (20) at the commander cabin (4) allow the gunner (8) and commander (9) to switch between different views and modes of the simulator system (100); and
the modules integrate seamlessly to provide training value to gunners and commanders.

2. The crew gunnery simulator system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the instructor station software module allows the instructor to set up, initiate, record, monitor, and control the training sessions.

3. The crew gunnery simulator system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the input-output station (15) software includes an electronic interface unit and a communication software that receives data from various sensors and transmits them to the visual station (14) and the instructor station CPUs for appropriate action.

4. The crew gunnery simulator system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the input-output station software provides the motion control outputs to the motion platform (5) through the motion control unit (16).

5. The crew gunnery simulator system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sense of gun recoil is provided by synthesized computer-generated imagery combined with the electric motion platform (5) and audio cues.

6. The crew gunnery simulator system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the input-output station (22) includes an electronic interface unit and communication software present in the instructor station (1) computer that receives data from various sensors and transmits them to the visual station (14) and the instructor station for appropriate action.

7. A crew gunnery simulator system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the instructor station (1) software module includes a database of pre-designed scenarios, targets, and conditions for training sessions, which can be customized by the instructor as needed.

8. A crew gunnery simulator system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the visual station software includes a 3D graphics engine, which generates realistic images of the simulated battlefield and targets based on the data received from the input-output station (15).

9. A crew gunnery simulator system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the input-output station (15) software includes a data logging and analysis module, which records and analyzes the data from the various sensors and controls during training sessions and provides feedback to the instructor and trainees for performance improvement.

10. A method of training crew members of a tank using the crew gunnery simulator system (100) of claim 1, comprising the steps of:
i) instructing the gunner (8) and commander (9) using the instructor station software module;
j) simulating firing scenarios using the gunner cabin (3) and commander cabin (4) mounted on the 3 DOF motion platform (5) with a motion control unit (16);
k) providing realistic motion feel during firing in different conditions using the electro-mechanical motion platform (5);
l) providing audio cues and synthesized computer generated imagery to simulate the sense of gun recoil;
m) monitoring and analyzing the training sessions using the monitoring screens (7) on the instructor station (1);
n) controlling the training sessions using the instructor station (1);
o) recording the training sessions for later review and analysis; and
p) replicating all the controls and instruments inside the gunner cabin (3) and commander cabin (4) to give the gunner (8) and commander (9) the feel of the original tank.

6. DATE AND SIGNATURE

Dated this23rdMarch 2023
Signature

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