EP1605222A1 - Device for the remote control of the use of a personal weapon and personal weapon with such a device - Google Patents

Abstract

The device has a wireless interface (3) for communication in a portable radio telecommunications network (7). A detector (4) determines a personal weapon (1), by an event from a data processor for processing a signal from the detector. A data message is prepared from the signal contained information sent over the wireless interface. An identification module (6) is provided by the identification of the weapon (1) in the telecommunications network. The identification module is a smart card. A storage area stores the data message before it is sent.

Description

The present invention relates to a device for Remote control of the use of a personal weapon and a personal weapon that includes such a control device. The The present invention relates in particular to a control device for Detection of shots fired by a personal weapon and / or to lock this personal weapon.

In certain cases, it may be desirable to know can, when, where and by whom a shot of a particular personal weapon was fired. This is the case for example if the responsibility for certain shots during an exercise or a particular mission were fired got to. In the art, usually such information using weapons from external elements such as witnesses, Surveillance cameras, external detectors and / or the shooter himself certainly.

Moreover, it is sometimes desirable to have one lock and / or trigger a personal weapon at a distance For example, before a mission to avoid being a shooter without a command shoot or disable a lost weapon.

US2002 / 0149468 describes a system and a method for the Remote control the use of objects, such as weapons, with Help from RFID. The RFID can send signals for temporary or final Except or commissioning of the corresponding object received and interpret. A disadvantage of this system is the short range of the Signals that are only a few hundred meters. So this system can only Control objects in a limited area. Moreover are the RFID passive elements that are not for spontaneous sending of data are suitable. Even if they are locally powered, they only emit RFID then when read by a customized reader.

An object of the invention is therefore to provide a control device for Remote control of the use of a personal weapon and a to propose personal weapon, what disadvantages of the control devices and the weapons of the prior art do not have.

This goal will come with a control device and a achieved personal weapon, which has the characteristics of the corresponding independent claim. Advantageous embodiments are also given by the dependent claims.

einer drahtlosen Schnittstelle zur Kommunikation in einem Mobilfunktelekommunikationsnetzwerk,

einem Detektor zur Ermittlung von einem Ereignis aus der persönlichen Waffe,

This goal is achieved in particular with a control device for remote control of the use of a personal weapon, with:

a wireless interface for communication in a mobile telecommunications network,

a detector for detecting an event from the personal weapon,

Data processing means for processing a signal from the Detector for preparing a data message with in said signal contained information and to send the data message over the wireless interface.

This goal is achieved in particular with a personal Weapon with such a device, with a database for storage the information contained in the data messages and with a Method for remotely controlling the use of a personal weapon with such a control device.

Thanks to the control device of the invention, the use a particular personal weapon for example from a far remote headquarters are monitored. In a variant of the invention can also use commands for temporary and / or final lock or triggering the weapon from a remote monitoring center be sent. The database of the invention also allows the Storage of received from various control devices Information.

Fig. 1 eine schematische Darstellung der Kontrollvorrichtung gemäss einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the single figure. She shows:

Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of the control device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

In a preferred embodiment, the control device is 2 of the invention integrated in a personal weapon 1. The personal weapon 1 is for example a firearm like a pistol, a Selbstladewaffe, etc. But you can also use an electric weapon, a Warning weapon, a naked weapon, etc., his. The control device 2 is preferably installed in the manufacture of the weapon 1. In another Embodiment, at least part of the control device 2 of Invention attached to an existing weapon. The weapon then points preferably fasteners for secure attachment of the Control device 2 are adapted to the weapon on.

The control device 2 of the invention comprises a wireless Interface 3, via a mobile telecommunication network 7 preferably to be able to communicate bidirectionally. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the interface 3 is a Radio interface for communication in a cellular network 7 such for example a GSM, UMTS, CDMA or GPRS network or in one Wireless LAN (WLAN). The interface 3 may consist of one integrated module or from a retractable in the weapon 1 module in PC Card format or in another suitable format.

In another embodiment, not shown the Invention, the weapon 1 comprises a local wireless interface such as Example a Bluetooth, Home RF, IrdA, WiFi or proprietary Interface, which is preferred for communication with an external portable mobile device, for example with a mobile phone is, wherein the external mobile device a wireless interface to Communication in the network 7 includes. The user of the weapon 1 carries then preferably also the mobile device with it, so that the weapon 1 via the network 7 can communicate through the mobile device. To the Confidentiality of the communications between the weapon 1 and the To ensure mobile device, they are preferably secured by for example, be encrypted.

The control device 2 of the invention preferably comprises an identification module 6, for example a removable chip card, for identifying the user of the weapon 1 in the network 7. The Identification module 6 allows at least one data transmission via the network 7. The data transmission takes place, for example, via SMS, USSD and / or MMS messages and / or via IP packets. Although one Voice connection over the network 7 would be possible, it is for this Application not necessary. As explained later, but in the context the invention the possibility of such a connection with the Control device 2 of the weapon 1 set up, provided become.

The control device 2 comprises a detector 4 for Determination of events from the weapon 1. The detected events For example, each shot fired by the weapon 1 includes shot.

In a preferred embodiment, in the weapon 1 at each fired shot an electrical signal, for example a generates electrical pulse. The weapon 1 then includes, for example, a not shown device for the conversion of the shots generated mechanical impulses into electrical signals. Other systems for generating the electrical signal in the weapon 1 are in the context of Invention also possible. It may, for example, an electrical contact at each shot mechanically opened or closed, resulting in Example for triggering an electrical signal by one not shown controller in the weapon 1 leads. The triggered electrical Signal is for example a simple electrical impulse or a more complex, for example, digital signal. According to this embodiment Preferably, according to the invention, the detector 4 comprises an electrical Line with which the electrical signals generated by the weapon 1 can be received and forwarded.

In a further embodiment, the control device determines 2 directly the mechanical shock, which generates the shot becomes and spreads in the mechanical structure of the weapon 1. Of the Detector 4 then preferably comprises a sensor which, for example every time he feels a mechanical impulse of some strength generates an electrical pulse. In one embodiment of the invention the detector 4 is at least partially as MEMS (micro electromechanical system) realized.

In yet another embodiment, the events, for example, the fired shots, with the help of a noise, to Example of banging, determined. The detector 4 then includes, for example an acoustic sensor or a pressure sensor, for example Microphone that generates an electrical signal every time you pop.

In still further embodiments of the invention other types of monitored events such as Combinations of pressure, gas and / or temperature variations of Detector 4 detected.

At each shot fired by the weapon 1 receives Preferably, the control device 2 of the invention, a signal from the Detector 4. For each received signal, data processing means, For example, a processor 5, in the control device 2 a digital data message containing information about the fired shot contains. As explained later, the information contained in the message For example, the time and date of the fired Shot, the identity of the user of the weapon 1, the location of the weapon 1 when the shot was fired, etc., include.

In one embodiment of the invention, the time and the date is determined by a clock, which is in the weapon 1, for example in the control device 2, is located. A disadvantage of this embodiment is that this clock, for example, adjusted by the user of the weapon 1 can be. So it can be the data about the time and the date of the shot. To avoid such falsification In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the time of day and the date taken from the network 7. It will be for example the time and date of the network 7 is used. It can also be data from a server, not shown, connected to the network 7 or from a satellite positioning signal, for example from a satellite GPS or Galileo signal, to be taken. In this last case includes Preferably, the control device 2 an interface for receiving the Location signals such as a GPS or a Galileo Interface. To a later falsification of this data after the The message is preferably avoided when preparing the message signed and marked with a time stamp.

The identity of the user of the weapon 1 is preferably by the identification module 6 determined. In one embodiment of the Invention, the identification module 6 contains a unique identification, for example, an identification number such as an IMSI or a MSISDN number, which also serves to identify them on network 7. This identification is included in the message so that the Personal details of the user, for example, his name, address, etc., for example, can be determined from a database. The Database is, for example, by the operator of the network 7 managed and the personal details of the user are sent to the recipient communicated to this distributor. Preferably, however, the recipient manages his own database so he has some control over this data and preferably keep them confidential. The identification the user of the weapon 1 can therefore preferably without intervention of the Operator of the network 7 done. In a variant of the invention the identification module 6 contains the complete personal details of the User, who will then be included as such in the message. The Identity of the user includes, for example, his name, address, function, his rank, etc. The message is then preferably encrypted, so that these data are not read by unauthorized recipients can. In one embodiment of the invention, the Authentication of the user on a biometric sensor or on Data in an RFID tag.

The location of the weapon 1, for example, in the network 7th by triangulation or by a not shown in the weapon 1 integrated GPS receiver detected. Is the weapon 1 with GPS and / or Galileo resources equipped, in addition to position also azimuth and Elevation of the weapon 1 can be determined.

It will become the authentication of the message preferably signed by the identification module 6. The message can also be encrypted by the identification module 6 so that they only can be read by authorized recipients. It can too asymmetric keys are used in the control device 2, to sign and encrypt the message. The one used for this Certificate can be issued by the operator of the network 7 or preferably by the Operator of a central office 8 or be issued by an authority.

The data message is then transmitted, for example, by the wireless Interface 3 via the network 7 to a receiver, for example one remote center 8, sent, or in a not shown Memory area of the control device 2 or the identification module 6 stored in the expectation of later sending this message. The Message is preferably for transmission over the telecommunication network 7 adjusted. Is the network 7, for example, a GSM network, then, for example, the message is an SMS, USSD, or MMS message. In the case of a GPRS or UMTS network, the message for example as email or other IP packets are sent.

The times at which the messages are sent can preferably with the help of one or more parameters be determined. These parameters include, for example, the number fired shots since the last message, the time interval since last message, the momentary use of the weapon 1, the presence the telecommunications network 7, the location of the weapon 1, etc. In For example, one embodiment of the invention will be a message automatically sent immediately after each shot. Thus, will in particular avoided that the messages in the control device 2 stored, which also for example a falsification of the data prevented during this storage time.

In other embodiments, the messages are for Example after a certain number of shots and / or after a certain amount Time interval since last message sent. Included in these cases a sent message data over several shots or it will be several messages sent simultaneously. The sending of the stored messages can also be triggered when the weapon 1 is in a particular location, for example when in a certain building, for example a barracks, a police station, etc., is what usually coincides with the end of an insert.

Weapon 1 includes a local wireless interface that connects to Communication is provided with a portable mobile device, the Mobile device a wireless interface for communication in the network 7 includes, sending the data message by activating this be triggered on the local interface. Preferably, the transmission of the Message also manually by the user for example at the end of a Use be triggered.

The parameters for determining the time interval between two sent messages can preferably be adapted to Example by pressing a user interface, not shown the control device 2 and / or by commands in messages that the Weapon 1 are sent via the telecommunications network 7.

If at the time scheduled for the broadcast no Message can be sent because, for example, no connection with The network 7 can be set up, preferably the sending repeated until successful. The time interval between two consecutive repetitions will preferably always longer with the number of attempts. In a variant of the invention After a certain number of attempts, the transmission is interrupted. Of the User is then preferably using a warning lamp, a Sound signal and / or a message on a display, not shown warned the control device 2 and asked to send the manual to trigger when the connection is recoverable.

The messages with the information about the weapon 1 fired shots become a receiver, for example one Central 8, for example, a police headquarters, sent, which for the Control the weapon and its use is responsible. In case of For example, police guns will get the messages from everyone in one certain geographical areas used to a certain extent Police headquarters sent. The messages contained in the messages Information is analyzed and / or stored there, for example. The information such as the identity of the user, the time and the Date of the fired shots, the location of the weapon 1 at each Shot, etc., are preferably in a central database saved in case of a lawsuit against the use of a certain weapon 1 the current use of the corresponding weapon 1 to be able to prove. The central database is preferably by the Operator of the Central 8 manages the confidentiality of To be able to guarantee information. At the reception, the Messages preferably also marked with a time stamp so that the reception time and date also in a safe and irrevocable Way to be saved.

In a variant of the invention, the weapon 1 by a Club for example manages a shooting club, which contests and / or games with harmless weapons. The data about the Use of the weapon 1 are then used, for example, to the Use of the weapon 1 to charge the corresponding player, and / or to analyze appropriate missions.

In a variant of the invention, the weapon 1 and / or the Control device 2 not shown means for identification and / or Authentication of the user of the weapon 1 by means of biometric Parameters. These means include, for example, sensors on the piston the weapon 1 for detecting the fingerprints of the user, who then in to be transformed into a vector. To authenticate the user is for example, the generated vector is compared to a reference vector, which the fingerprints of the user of the identification module. 6 equivalent. If both vectors do not match, that is if the user is not authenticated, for example, the control device 2 lock the use of the weapon 1 temporarily or permanently. In one variant, the unauthenticated user may be prompted its identity with the help of a user interface Indicate control device 2, before using the weapon 1 is allowed.

In a variant of the invention, the user of the weapon 1 identified using its biometric parameters by the vector is compared with a certain number of reference vectors, each one Reference vector the fingerprints of an authorized user of the weapon 1 equivalent. Preferably, the use of the weapon 1 by the Control device 2 only allowed if the current user of a of the allowed users.

Preferably, the reference vector or the Reference vectors in the control device 2, for example in Identification module 6 stored.

In another embodiment, the biometric Parameter sent in a message to the receiver 8, which the Authentication and / or identification of the user by means of before or after the shot determined reference vectors will perform.

Preferably, the biometric parameters of the user in each message along with the other information about the fired shots, especially when multiple users use the same weapon can use 1 or if the user does not was authenticated.

Other identification and / or authentication means are within the scope of the invention also possible. The user can, for example be asked, preferably a secret only known to him Help a user interface of the control device 2 to enter to allow the use of the weapon 1.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention Command signals through the control device 2 to the weapon 1 be sent. The command signals are for example for temporary or final blocking and / or triggering of the weapon 1, for example to avoid their use at some point, or around the Weapon 1 finally put out of service, for example after the Weapon 1 was lost or stolen.

The wireless interface 3 of the control device 2 can thus preferably also messages via the telecommunication network 7 receive. As with the sending of messages are the received messages adapted to the type of network 7. The Messages are thus for example SMS and / or MMS messages in GSM network case 7, e-mail messages and / or other IP packets in the case of a UMTS or GPRS network 7, etc.

A message received by the control device 2 For example, it includes certain characters or strings that are identified by the Control device 2 are interpreted and to send the corresponding commands to the weapon 1 lead. Preferably, the Message by the center 8 signed with their signature, so that the weapon 1 can check the origin of the commands. The message will also preferably still with the public signature of the weapon 1, the Example stored in the identification module 6, encrypted so that only this particular weapon 1 can read the message and the commands will execute.

The sent by the control device 2 of the weapon 1 Command signals are, for example, digital electrical signals used for Example received by a controller, not shown, the weapon 1 and be interpreted. The controller then controls, for example not shown mechanical and / or electronic blocking agent within the weapon 1 to its temporary or final lock. These Blocking means comprise, for example, an electromagnetic actuator, which can block the pusher of the weapon 1. To the final lock The weapon 1 is preferably a mechanical and / or electrical Destroys item within weapon 1 so it will not be used anymore can be.

In another embodiment of the invention actuates the Control device 2 directly the electronic and / or mechanical Locking means of the weapon 1. Thus, the over the first interface. 3 received message in the control device 2 interpreted and directly get to the appropriate actuation of the locking means.

In certain cases, the command signals may be through the Control device 2 itself be generated, for example, the weapon 1 after a certain rest period or if the user does not can be authenticated, etc., to lock automatically. Preferably But are the commands from the control device 2 to the weapon. 1 by messages received via the telecommunication network 7 triggered.

In a variant of the invention, the control device 2 The invention signals for firing of shots by the weapon. 1 send and / or perform. In this case, for example, the Weapon blocking means also fire 1 shots by, for example, the electromagnetic actuator for blocking the pusher him too can operate. The signals for firing shots can preferably also with the aid of over the network 7 received Messages are triggered. Thus, therefore, the firing of shots be remotely controlled by the weapon 1.

If the weapon 1 does not get a message from the center 8 can, for example because she is in an area where there is no reception from the network 7, it may preferably be completely manual be used. For example, it can be manually locked and / or be triggered after a security code about mechanical or electromechanical input means were entered. Other behavior The weapon 1 are also possible within the scope of the invention. The weapon 1 can for example, retain their last status, locked or triggered, until a connection with the center 8 is possible again. She can too be locked as soon as there is no connection, for example at abuse during a contest or game too avoid.

In one embodiment of the invention, the weapon 1 only then triggered when its internal clock by an external time could be calibrated and / or if the time and date were off the network 7 or from a remote server could.

Preferably, the weapon 1 comprises, for example, on the Control device, a display and / or warning lamp to the state the gun 1 to tell the user. A warning diode becomes the Example activated when the weapon is remotely controlled and / or remotely monitored becomes. Another diode is activated, for example, when the weapon is locked, etc.

The control device is preferably powered by batteries in the Weapon 1 fed. The batteries are preferably rechargeable Batteries that are taken out of the weapon 1, for example can be charged to an adapted charger. In a In another embodiment, the batteries may also be directly in the weapon 1 be charged by, for example, the weapon for a certain time is connected to an electrical power source. If the battery is empty is, and the control device 2 can not be powered can preferably used the weapon 1 at least for a certain time become. The weapon 1 may then automatically lock to to avoid unauthorized use. Other behavior of the weapon 1 are at low power of the control device 2 in the context of Invention also possible. In one embodiment, for example, the Weapon 1 locked as soon as the control device 2 a low power detected. In another embodiment, the control device switches 2 off the interface 3 as soon as the available power is below a certain threshold. But it continues to work on the data over to store the use of the weapon, for example in a log file. To a deeper energy threshold may be the weapon 1 temporarily and / or finally blocked. Other combinations of these different Behavior are also possible within the scope of the invention. The interface 3 can also be fed separately from the rest of the control device 2, so that messages even when empty battery battery sent and / or can be received.

The data messages sent by the weapon 1 and / or are preferably signed and / or encrypted, to ensure their irrevocability. Thus, the contained therein Information and / or commands considered safe and authentic become. So you could, for example, as evidence in the case of a lawsuit to be used. Encryption of messages also ensures that unauthorized recipients of the messages can not read them, so for example, opponent of the user of the weapon 1, the information about the fired shots can not know. The transmission of the Messages are preferably backed up end-to-end by the Encryption is performed with a key which only the Transmitter and receiver are known. That means that only the transmitter, to Example, the control device 2 of the weapon 1, and only the receiver, For example, the center 8, read the information contained therein can. The data messages are thus also to the operator network 7 confidential.

The control device 2 of the invention is for monitoring various events can be used. It can, for example, signals the Control device 2 are sent when the weapon 1 on or is turned off when new ammunition is loaded, if that Identification module 6 is changed when the weapon is moved, etc. These events are preferably as data messages with a Timestamp either sent to the central 8 or in the control device 2 stored for example in a log file, which for example the central office 8 is sent at a certain later time.

In a variant of the invention, each projectile of the weapon. 1 provided with an identification element, which with the Control device 2 of the invention can communicate. Such Identification elements are, for example, RFID elements with a unique identification number. Preferably then include the sent data messages about the fired shots also the Identification number of the projectile fired.

In a variant of the invention, a communication a traffic channel in the network 7 between the control device 2 and For example, the control panel 8 is opened during a whole operation To be able to send data continuously on the channel. information about The fired shots can thus by the control device 2 in Real time of the central 8 will be sent. On the traffic channel can also Sound between the weapon 1 and the control panel 8 are exchanged. The Control device 2 is thus preferably with a non-illustrated Speaker and / or with a microphone, not shown intended. There are, for example, on the traffic channel the popping of Fire shots, the sounds of loading the ammunition in the weapon 1, etc., the central 8 transmitted in real time. Preferably, a can also Conversation between the user of the weapon 1 and the control center over the Control device 2 are set up. Thus, for example vocal commands and / or information between the user and the user Central 8 are exchanged. The user asks for example the user channel the center 8 to shoot the permit, the control center 8 then replies via the traffic channel that the user has the permission and simultaneously sends a data message to trigger the weapon 1.

In the above description, data messages and / or Sound exchanged between the weapon 1 and a remote center 8. However, the skilled person will easily understand that this exchange also between two weapons 1 can take place. It can, for example, groups be formed by weapons, which together data and / or sound via the network 7 or via a local network. Of the User of a particular weapon is, for example, the squad leader, which during use for example for the triggering and / or Blocking the weapons of his group. So he can do that corresponding data messages of the other weapons of his group Example by means of the control device of his weapon, either directly or send via a control panel 8. He can also preferably data and or vocal commands to the participants of his group via the network 7 through the channel, etc.

In the above description, the control device 2 is with its wireless interface 3 for communication in the mobile telecommunications network 7 integrated in a personal weapon 1. In a Variant of the invention is but the control device in one Mobile telecommunication terminal integrated, which for ejecting equipped by projectiles. The control device of the invention then preferably uses for communication in the mobile telecommunications network 7 the wireless interface of the mobile terminal, Which, for example, also for the built-up with the terminal Telephone connections is used. According to this variant is therefore in Mobile terminal integrated a weapon according to the invention by means of Control device in the terminal can be controlled remotely.

Claims (24)

Control device (2) for remotely controlling the use of a personal weapon (1), comprising: a wireless interface (3) for communication in a mobile telecommunications network (7), a detector (4) for detecting an event from said personal weapon (1), Data processing means (5) for processing a signal from said detector (4), preparing a data message with information contained in said signal and transmitting said message via said wireless interface (3). Control device (2) according to the preceding claim, which an identification module (6) for identifying said weapon (1) in said telecommunications network (7). Control device (2) according to the preceding claim, wherein said identification module (6) is a chip card. Control device (2) according to one of the preceding Claims that include a storage area for storing the said Data message before said sending includes. Control device (2) according to one of the preceding Claims for integration in said personal weapon (1) is adjusted. Control device (2) according to one of the preceding Claims, wherein said data message is said to Mobile telecommunications network (7) is adjusted. Control device (2) according to one of the preceding Claims, wherein said signal contains information about at least one by the personal weapon (1) fired shot contains. Control device (2) according to the preceding claim, wherein said detector (4) comprises a sensor for detecting the signals transmitted through the said personal weapon (1) includes fired shots. Control device (2) according to one of claims 7 or 8, wherein said data message is the time and date of said contains at least one shot. Control device (2) according to the preceding claim, wherein said data message is marked with a time stamp. Control device (2) according to one of claims 9 or 10, said time and said date being from said Telecommunications network (7) are removed. Control device (2) according to one of claims 9 or 10, wherein said time and said date from a satellite positioning determination signal are taken. Control device (2) according to one of claims 7 to 12, wherein said data message is the identity of the user of said one personal weapon (1) as said at least one shot fired was included. Control device (2) according to the preceding claim, said identity being identified by an identification module (6) in the said control device is determined. Control device (2) according to one of claims 7 to 14, the said identity having biometric parameters of said User is determined and / or checked. Control device (2) according to one of claims 7 to 15, said data message indicating the location of said personal Weapon (1) when said at least one shot was fired. Control device (2) according to one of claims 7 to 16, wherein said data message is an identification of the projectile contains, which during said at least one shot was fired. Control device (2) according to one of the preceding Claims for receiving messages via said wireless Interface (3) is adjusted. Control device (2) according to the preceding claim, wherein said messages include commands for temporary and / or may contain final suspension of said personal weapon (1), said control device (2) for interpreting said Commands and / or their forwarding to the weapon (1) is used. Control device (2) according to one of the preceding Claims, said mobile telecommunication network (7) is a cellular mobile telephone network. Personal weapon (1) containing a control device (2) according to one of the preceding claims for their remote control. Central database for storing information which by at least one control device (2) according to one of Claims 1 to 20 in data messages about said Telecommunications network (7) were sent. Method for remotely controlling the use of a personal weapon (1), comprising the following steps: Determining an event from a personal weapon (1) by a detector (4) in a control device (2) according to one of claims 1 to 20, Processing a signal from said detector (4) by data processing means (5) in said control device (2), Preparing a data message with information contained in said signal, Sending said message via a telecommunications network (7). Process according to the previous claim, wherein the said data message in said control device (2) before said transmission is stored.

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