WO2023275585A1

WO2023275585A1 - Systems and methods of tactic training with firearm weapons in a simulated urban environment

Info

Publication number: WO2023275585A1
Application number: PCT/IB2021/055729
Authority: WO
Inventors: Idan TOHAMI
Original assignee: Tohami Idan
Priority date: 2021-06-27
Filing date: 2021-06-27
Publication date: 2023-01-05
Also published as: IL300690A

Abstract

Systems and method of performing tactic training with firearm weapons are described. The system includes a shooting range and an inflatable structure, simulating urban environment.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF TACTIC TRAINING WITH FIREARM WEAPONS IN A

SIMULATED URBAN ENVIRONMENT

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] In general, the present invention pertains to the art of temporary and/or readily erectable structures. In particular, the invention relates to systems and methods of tactic training with firearm weapons in an urban environment simulated by readily erectable inflatable structures.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] It is believed that the current state of the art is represented by the following patent literature: US8770422, US8752336, US7089703, US4736762, US4197681 , US2012042578, US2012037621 and CN203659344U. Moreover is believed that the current state of the art is represented by: Review - Survitec Inflatable Walls Training System, published by Drew Wallace on 25 October 2019, available at the following URL: https://www.recoilweb.com/review-survitec-inflatable-walls-training-system-153902.html A snapshot dated 13 August 2020 of the aforesaid URL is available at the following URL: https://web.archive.Org/web/20200813055053/https://www.recoilweb.com/review-survitec· inflatabl e-wa 11 s-tra i n i n g -syste m-153902.html

[0003] Survitec Inflatable Walls Training System that is believed to represent the closest prior art is designed for use in military and law enforcement, the system is a training tool that quickly and accurately replicates a real-world target. Survitec’s system supports the concept of adaptability with the skillset of close quarters battle.

[0004] US4197681 discloses a two substantially identical inflatable opposed frame elements, each consisting of a single unitary tube performed as by pleats or tucks causing the tube to assume a preestablished configuration when inflated, are connected at four points of intersection of the four tube ends with certain tube segments. Each inflatable element in US4197681 consists of an upwardly extending arch section, an upwardly extending brace section, and a substantially horizontal base section extending between and joining one foot of the arch section and the bottom of the brace section. The other foot of the arch section of each frame element in US4197681 intersects the base section of the other frame element, and the top of the brace section of each frame element intersects the top of the arch section of the other frame element. DEFINITIONS

[0005] The term modular, as referred to herein, should be construed as a stand-alone unit. The term modular inter alia means a standardized unit that may be conveniently installed or deployed without significant impact to the environment. The term modular, however, doesn’t necessarily means providing for ease of interchange or replacement. The term modular is optionally satisfied by providing for ease of at least onetime deployment or installation.

[0006] The term readily connectable, as referred to herein, should be construed as a standardized unit that may be conveniently connected to other components of the system. The term readily connectable, however, doesn’t necessarily means readily disconnectable or removable. The term readily connectable is optionally satisfied by providing for ease of at least onetime connection or coupling.

[0007] The terms matching and/or matchable as referred to herein is to be construed as a cross-sectional area and/or shape of a component is equal or essentially similar to a cross-sectional area and/or shape of another component. It should be acknowledged that the component need only to be similar in the cross-sectional areas and/or shapes, to satisfy the term matching/matchable, so long as the cross-sectional areas can be mated or the combination will fit into and/or occupy essentially the same lateral space.

[0008] The term structured as referred to herein is to be construed as including any geometrical shape, exceeding in complexity a plain linear shape or a shape embodying simple cylindrical, elliptical or polygonal contour or profile. A more complex shape, a plain linear shape or a shape embodying simple cylindrical, elliptical or polygonal contour or profile, constitutes an example of structured geometry.

[0009] The terms firm rigid, or stiff, as referred to herein, are to be construed as having rigidity modulus value, otherwise referred to as the shear modulus, of 4800 MPa or more. Materials are considered to be firm rigid, or stiff but not tensile, when such materials are incapable of being efficiently elastically flexed or bent. Stiff materials, such as steel, are defined as having rigidity modulus value well exceeding 4800 MPa.

[0010] The terms pliable or pliant, as referred to herein, are to be construed as having high tensile strength and capable of being efficiently elastically flexed or bent but not being resilient and incapable of being efficiently stretched or expanded. The term tensile or tensile strength, as referred to herein, is to be construed inter alia as a shortcut of the known term ultimate tensile strength, frequently represented acronym as UTS, meaning an intensive property of a material or structure to withstand loads tending to elongate, namely to resist tension, defined as the maximum stress that a material can withstand while been stretched or pulled before sustaining breaking, substantial deformation and/or necking before fracture, such as nylon, relating to essentially non-ductile materials, having UTS value ranging between about 600 and 1000 MPa or more, but not including rigid, firm or stiff materials.

[0011] The terms elastic or resilient, as referred to herein, are to be construed as having tensile strength lower than aforesaid tensile strength of pliable or pliant material and optionally being capable of efficiently stretching or expanding, relating inter alia to essentially ductile materials, having UTS value lesser than about 600 MPa.

[0012] The term "Shore" refers to a measure of hardness of material using a durometer, e.g., similar to that described in U.S. Patent No. 1 ,770,045 to Shore et al. The term "Shore A" refers to aforesaid measure of hardness of material using a type A Shore durometer.

[0013] By "operationally connected" and "operably coupled", as used herein, is meant connected in a specific way (e.g., in a manner allowing water to move and/or electric power to be transmitted) that allows the disclosed system and its various components to operate effectively in the manner described herein.

[0014] In the specification or claims herein, any term signifying an action or operation, such as: a verb, whether in base form or any tense, gerund or present/past participle, is not to be construed as necessarily to be actually performed but rather in a constructive manner, namely as to be performed merely optionally or potentially.

[0015] The term "substantially” as used herein is a broad term, and is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art (and is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning), and refers without limitation to being largely but not necessarily entirely of that quantity or quality which is specified.

[0016] The term "essentially" means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, stages and or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, the stages and/or the parts do not materially alter the basic and new characteristics of the composition, method or structure claimed.

[0017] As used herein, the term “essentially” changes a specific meaning, meaning an interval of plus or minus ten percent (± 10%). For any embodiments disclosed herein, any disclosure of a particular value, in some alternative embodiments, is to be understood as disclosing an interval approximately or about equal to that particular value (i.e., ± 10%).

[0018] As used herein, the terms “about” or “approximately” modify a particular value, by referring to a range equal to the particular value, plus or minus twenty percent (+/- 20%). For any of the embodiments, disclosed herein, any disclosure of a particular value, can, in various alternate embodiments, also be understood as a disclosure of a range equal to about that particular value (i.e. +/- 20%).

[0019] As used herein, the term “or” is an inclusive “or” operator, equivalent to the term “and/or,” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise; whereas the term “and” as used herein is also the alternative operator equivalent to the term “and/or,” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0020] It should be understood, however, that neither the briefly synopsized summary nor particular definitions hereinabove are not to limit interpretation of the invention to the specific forms and examples but rather on the contrary are to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the scope of the invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The following summary of the invention is provided in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects and features of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention and as such it is not intended to particularly identify key or critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented below.

[0022] The invention was made in view of the deficiencies of the prior art and provides systems, methods and processes for overcoming these deficiencies. According to some embodiments and aspects of the present invention, there is provided a mobile urban environment which can be set up on-site and dismantled with comparatively little effort.

[0023] According to some embodiments and aspects of the present invention, the shooting range includes a space for housing the components of the system for tactic training with firearm weapons simulating urban environment.

[0024] According to some embodiments and aspects of the present invention, there is provided a system for tactic training with firearm weapons in a simulated urban environment includes: a shooting range for firearm weapons including: at least one backstop wall including at least one material configured for absorbing firearm projectiles and for retaining the projectiles, thereby preventing ricochets; an anti-ricochet floor including at least one material configured for retaining the projectiles; an inflatable structure configured for simulating the urban environment including: a plurality of vertical columns including a hollow tubular structure, disposed on the anti-ricochet floor; a plurality of horizontal beams including a hollow tubular structure, supported by the vertical columns; a plurality of sheets including a flexible opaque material, configured to form partitions in the inflatable structure; a first set of fasteners attached to at least one member of: the horizontal beams and the vertical columns; a second set of fasteners attached to the sheets, in which second set of fasteners is readily and reversibly attachable to the first set of fasteners, thereby rendering the sheets attachable the horizontal beams and/or the vertical columns; at least one sleeve for inflating the inflatable structure, including a hollow tubular structure, in which an interior lumen of the sleeve forms a continuum with an interior lumen of at least one member of: at least one of the vertical columns and at least one of the horizontal beams; a pressurized air source attachable to the sleeve, configured to provide a continuous supply of the pressurized air and thereby maintaining the inflatable structure erected.

[0025] According to some embodiments and aspects of the present invention, the system is provided in which the shooting range includes at least one shape of: a circular shape, rounded shape, oval shape and elliptic shape.

[0026] According to some embodiments and aspects of the present invention, the system is provided in which the inflatable structure includes at least one shape of: a shape of a building, a shape of a house with compartments, a shape of a terrestrial vehicle, a shape of an aerial vehicle and a shape of a waterborne vessel.

[0027] According to some embodiments and aspects of the present invention, the system is provided in which at least one component of the inflatable structure of: the columns, the beams, the sheets and the sleeve includes at least one material of: non flammable material, fire retardant material and fire resistance material.

[0028] According to some embodiments and aspects of the present invention, the system is provided in which at least one component of the inflatable structure of: the columns, the beams, the sheets is connected to a selected group consisting of: doors, windows, doorposts or a combination of these, in which is attached by a selected group consisting of: fasteners and hook and loop or a combination of these.

[0029] According to some embodiments and aspects of the present invention, the system is provided in which at least one target of: a stationary target, mobile target, proximity target and remote target, is attachable to at least one component of the system of: the anti ricochet floor, the columns, the beams and the sheet.

[0030] According to some embodiments and aspects of the present invention, the system is provided in which the system includes at least one on-site repair kit configured for repairing holes in the inflatable structure punctured by the projectiles.

[0031] According to some embodiments and aspects of the present invention, the system is provided in which the pressurized air pump is configured for supplying a high throughput of air into the inflatable structure.

[0032] A method of performing tactic training with firearm weapons in a simulated urban environment includes: providing a shooting range for firearm weapons including: at least one backstop wall composing configured for absorbing firearm projectiles and for retaining the projectiles; an anti-ricochet floor configured for retaining the projectiles; providing an inflatable structure configured for simulating the urban environment including: a plurality of vertical columns including a hollow tubular structure; a plurality of horizontal beams including a hollow tubular structure; a plurality of sheets including a flexible opaque material; a first set of fasteners attached to the horizontal beams and/or the vertical columns; a second set of fasteners attached to the sheets, reversibly attachable to the first set of fasteners; at least one sleeve for inflating the inflatable structure, including a hollow tubular structure forming a continuum with an interior lumen of at least one of the vertical columns and/or the horizontal beams; deploying the inflatable structure on the anti-ricochet floor of the shooting range; providing a pressurized air source and attaching the pressurized air source to the sleeve; forming a continuous flow of the pressurized air into the sleeve, thereby erecting the inflatable structure; forming at least one partition in the inflatable structure by attaching the sheets at least one member of: the vertical columns and the horizontal beams; performing tactic training with firearm weapons, in which the tactic training including discharging firearm projectiles from the firearm weapons from within the inflatable structure, at least in a direction of the at least one backstop wall.

[0033] According to some embodiments and aspects of the present invention, the method further includes attaching to at least one component of the system at least one tactical training target of: a stationary target, mobile target, proximity target and remote target.

[0034] According to some embodiments and aspects of the present invention, the method further includes attaching at least one target of: a shooting target of an innocent figure and shooting target of a non-innocent figure, to at least one component of the system.

[0035] According to some embodiments and aspects of the present invention, the method in which the performing the tactic training further includes identifying at least one target of: a shooting target of an innocent figure and shooting target of a non-innocent figure. DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] The present invention will be understood and appreciated more comprehensively from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the appended drawings in which: [0037] FIG 1 is a schematic plan view of a system performing tactic training with firearm weapons in a simulated urban environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0038] FIG 2 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable structure resembling a building, simulating urban environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0039] FIG 3 is a schematic perspective view of an inflatable structure resembling a building, simulating urban environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0040] FIG 4 is a high-level flowchart of a method of tactic training with firearm weapons in an urban environment simulated by a readily erectable inflatable structure, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0041] FIG 5A is a bottom view of an inflatable structure resembling a building simulating urban environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; [0042] FIG 5B is a top view of an inflatable structure resembling a building simulating urban environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0043] FIG 5C is a right-side view of an inflatable structure resembling a building simulating urban environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; [0044] FIG 5D is a front view of an inflatable structure resembling a building simulating urban environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0045] FIG 5E of a perspective view of inflatable structure resembling a building simulating urban environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0046] FIG 6A an isometric view of an inflatable structure resembling a building simulating urban environment without a rooftop, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention; [0047] FIG 6B an isometric view of an inflatable structure resembling a building simulating urban environment with a rooftop, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention;

[0048] FIG 6E is a front view of an inflatable structure resembling a building simulating urban environment, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0049] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications showing shooting range, building-like inflatable structure, and a pressurized air source according to certain and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown merely by way of example in the drawings. The drawings are not necessarily complete and components are not essentially to scale; emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles underlying the present invention.

DETAILED DISCLOSURE OF EMBODIMENTS

[0050] Illustrative embodiments of the invention are described below. In the interest of clarity, not all features of actual implementation are described in this specification. It should be appreciated that various features or elements described in the context of some embodiment may be interchangeable with features or elements of any other embodiment described in the specification. Moreover, it will be appreciated that for the development of any actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers' specific goals, such as compliance with technology- or business- related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another, and the effort of such a development might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0051] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, reference is now made to FIG 1 conjointly with FIG 4, respectively showing a schematic plan view of system 10 for tactic training with firearm weapons simulating urban environment, as well as high-level flowchart 100 of a method for tactic training. In some embodiments, system 10 includes shooting range 12, which is provided during step 102 that commences the method of flowchart 100. In some examples shooting range 12 is an outdoor or indoor facility used for firearms shoting and practice in safety and convenience, performed during step 114, as will be elaborated infra.

[0052] In some embodiments shooting range 12 is a standard shooting range, typically embodying a polygonal shape known in the art. It should be acknowledged however that shooting range 12 of a polygonal shape shown in FIG 1 is merely exemplary, whereas in other embodiments shooting range 12 embodies a non-standard shape, in a non-limiting manner including: a circular, rounded, oval and/or elliptic shape as well as any combination thereof.

[0053] In some embodiments, shooting range 12 comprises at least one backstop wall 14. In some examples, backstop wall 14 is configured for absorbing firearm projectiles and for retaining the projectiles as well as fragments thereof, thereby preventing ricochets of the projectiles rebounding off the surface of backstop wall 14. In some examples, backstop wall 14 comprises at least one ballistically-resistant material, such as reinforced concrete, masonry block, steel plates, timber, sand or any combination of these materials.

[0054] In some embodiments, backstop wall 14 comprises ricochet retaining layer 16. Ricochet retaining layer 16 is configured for retaining the projectiles as well as fragments thereof, rebounding off the surface of backstop wall 14. Ricochet retaining layer 16 is typically configured for retaining the projectile and/or fragments thereof in a safe manner and to withstanding the full force of the fired projectiles. Ricochet retaining layer 16 is typically disposed at the distal portion of shooting range 12 and behind the shooting targets. Ricochet retaining layer 16 is typically disposed at the front of backstop wall 14.

[0055] In some examples ricochet retaining layer 16 comprises at least one ballistically resistant materials, such as curved or angled steel plates, ballistic rubber media, dirt, sand, wood, ballistic curtains, or combinations of these materials. Examples of ricochet retaining layer 16 are disclosed inter alia in US5405673, US4509301 and US5907930.

[0056] In some embodiments, shooting range 12 comprises at least one safety wall 18. Safety wall 18 of shooting range 12 is configured for preventing bullets escaping from the facility to the external surroundings and/or bouncing or ricocheting off safety wall 18 into shooting range 12. In some examples safety wall 18 comprises at least one ballistically retaining materials, such as concrete, brick, timber or combinations of these materials. Examples of safety wall 18 are disclosed inter alia in KR101979022 and US5907930.

[0057] In some embodiments, shooting range 12 comprises an anti-ricochet floor 20, configured to protect shooters from errant shoots, projectiles and bullets ricochets. In some examples anti-ricochet floor 20 comprises poured concrete, dirt, sand, metal, wood, or a combination of these materials. Example of an anti-ricochet floor 20 is disclosed inter alia in US2015184985.

[0058] In some embodiments, inflatable structure 30 is configured for simulating urban environment, provided during step 104 of the method of flowchart 100, shown in FIG 4. In some examples, inflatable structure 30 comprises a shape resembling: a building, compartment house, a terrestrial vehicle, aerial vehicle and/or waterborne vessel or any combination thereof. Inflatable structure 30 is deployed on anti-ricochet floor 20, during step 106 of the method of flowchart 100.

[0059] In some embodiments, inflatable structure 30 comprises pliant sheets of a non-flammable material, fire retardant material and fire resistance material ora combination thereof. In some examples, inflatable structure 30 is made of fabric material including PVC Tarpaulin, Aramid or Kevlar (R), Spectra (R), Poly Benzol Oxylene and Vectran (R) or a combination thereof. Fabric material of inflatable structure 30 ensures the safety of the users and preventing the burning of the structure while using live ammunition.

[0060] In some embodiments, inflatable structure 30 further comprises at least one sleeve 42. At least one sleeve 42 is used for inflating and constantly supplying a positively pressurized airflow into inflatable structure 30. At least one sleeve 42 is comprising a hollow tubular structure. The lumen of at least one sleeve 42 forms a continuum with an interior lumen of at least one member of hollow vertical columns 32 and at least one member of hollow horizontal beams 34.

[0061] In some embodiments, system 10 comprises pressurized air source 50. Pressurized air source 50 is operationally connected to at least one sleeve 42, during step 108 of the method of flowchart 100. Pressurized air source 50 is configured for providing a continuous supply of pressurized air in a high throughput manner, during step 110 of the method of flowchart 100. Pressurized air source 50 is configured for providing a surplus airflow that compensates for air leakage due to projectile punctures in the inflatable structure 30, during the tactic training of step 114. Pressurized air source 50 prevents inflatable structure 30 from collapsing during or after tactic training with live firearm ammunition.

[0062] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, reference is now made to FIG 2 and 3, respectively showing a schematic plan view a of an inflatable structure 30 and a perspective view of inflatable structure 30, resembling a building, simulating urban environment, during the tactic training of step 114 of the method of flowchart 100, shown in FIG 4.

[0063] In some embodiments, inflatable structure 30 comprises a plurality of hollow vertical columns 32. Hollow vertical columns 32 are deployable on anti-ricochet floor 20, during step 106 of the method of flowchart 100. Hollow vertical columns 32 are configured for supporting and erecting inflatable 30. In some embodiments, inflatable structure 30 further comprises a plurality of hollow horizontal beams 34. At least one superior hollow horizontal beam 34 is supported by hollow vertical columns 32, whereas at least one inferior hollow horizontal beam 34 is deployed on anti-ricochet floor 20, during step 106 of the method of flowchart 100. Hollow vertical columns 32 and hollow horizontal beams 34 comprise an interior lumen enclosed by a pliant sheet.

[0064] In some embodiments, inflatable structure 30 further comprises a plurality of sheets 36. The plurality of sheets 36 is typically made of a flexible and opaque material. Sheets 36 are configured for forming various partitions within inflatable structure 30, such as corridor and rooms or a combination of these, as well as exterior elements of inflatable structure 30, such as a ceiling. Sheets 36 are attachable during step 112 of the method of flowchart 100 onto hollow horizontal beams 34 and/or hollow vertical columns 32.

[0065] In some embodiments, inflatable structure 30 comprises a first set of fasteners 38. The first set of fasteners 38 is attached to hollow vertical columns 32 and to hollow horizontal beams 34. In some embodiments, inflatable structure 30 further comprises a second set of fasteners 40. The second set of fasteners 40 is attached to a plurality of sheets 36. The second set of fasteners 40 is readily and reversibly attachable to the first set of fasteners 38, thereby rendering the plurality of sheets 36 modularly attachable to hollow vertical columns 32 and/or to hollow horizontal beams 34. In some examples the first set of fasteners 38 and the second set of fasteners 40 are respective counterpart moieties of hook and loop fasteners, known in the art.

[0066] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, reference is now made to FIG 5A-5E and 6A-6C, respectively showing a top, right-side and front views of inflatable structure 30, as well as a perspective, isometric without a rooftop, isometric without a rooftop and front views of inflatable structure 30, resembling a building simulating urban environment, during the tactic training of step 114 of the method of flowchart 100, shown in FIG 4.

[0067] In some embodiments, inflatable structure 30 comprises at least one opening 44 in a simulated wall of inflatable structure 30. Opening 44 in a wall simulated by sheets 36, of inflatable structure 30, facilitates practicing the burst entering into inflatable structure 30. In some examples, opening 44 in a simulated wall of inflatable structure 30 includes structures such as door, window, doorpost or any combination thereof. In some examples, opening 44 in a simulated wall of inflatable structure 30 comprises an opening and closing mechanism. In some examples, at least one constituent part of the opening and closing mechanism of opening 44 in a simulated wall of inflatable structure 30 is attachable to at least one hollow vertical columns 32 member and/or to at least one hollow horizontal beam 34 member and/or at least one sheet 36 or a combination thereof. In some examples, at least one constituent part of the opening and closing mechanism of opening 44 in a simulated wall of inflatable structure 30 is attachable to at least one hollow vertical columns 32 member and/or to at least one hollow horizontal beam 34 member and/or at least one sheet 36 by the first set of fasteners 38 and/or the second set of fasteners 40, such as hook and loop fasteners or an equivalent thereof.

[0068] In some embodiments, system 10 comprises shooting targets. Shooting targets in a non-limiting manner include: stationary targets, mobile targets, proximity targets remote targets. Shooting targets facilitate shooting exercise in close quarters battle, firing from different angles on stationary and/or moving targets, as well as any type of training with firearms weapons, during step 114. Targets are attachable at least to one part of system 10, such as anti-ricochet floor 20, hollow vertical columns 32, hollow horizontal beams 34 and plurality of sheets 36 or a combination thereof.

[0069] In some examples, moving targets comprise pop-up targets, targets with rotary movement and swinging targets or a combination thereof. In some examples, targets comprise at least one material such as paper, steel, foam, plastic, wood, rubber and clay or a combination of these. In some examples, targets comprise photos, electronic targets, 3D target, reactive targets, splatter target and bouncing target or a combination thereof. In some examples, targets simulate human figures, animal figures ora combination thereof. In some examples, targets include figures of non-involved persons, which should be avoided shooting at, as well as figures of subjects of interest, which should shout at, such as a shooting target of an innocent figure and a shooting target of a non-innocent figure.

[0070] In some embodiments, system 10 comprises at least one onsite repair kit. Onsite repair kit is configured for repairing raptures in inflatable structure 30 punctured by projectiles during tactic training of step 114. In some embodiments, onsite repair kit includes Airhead (R), Tear-Aid (R), Coghlan’s (R), PVC stitch (R) and CWB Connelly (R) repair kits or a combination thereof.

[0071] In some preferred embodiments, inflatable structure 30 comprises a plurality of fasteners and/or connectors, other than the first set of fasteners 38 and the second set of fasteners 40, configured for attaching and/or mounting a doorjamb assembly, mountable onto inflatable structure 30, such as opening 44 in a simulated wall of inflatable structure 30 formed by sheets 36. In some preferred embodiments, a doorjamb assembly includes a rectangular doorjamb frame and a realistic solid door connected by swinging hinges to the doorjamb frame. In such embodiments, the doorjamb assembly is readily connectable to hollow vertical columns 32 and/or of hollow horizontal beams 34 and thereby modularly mountable onto inflatable structure 30. Upon installing and/or mounting the doorjamb assembly onto hollow vertical columns 32 and/or of hollow horizontal beams 34 of inflatable structure 30, tactical training exercise which involves abrupt door opening and bursting into a room is performable, within inflatable structure 30.

[0072] In some preferred embodiments, inflatable structure 30 hollow vertical columns 32 as well as hollow horizontal beams 34 are readily connectable to each other and/or to sleeve 42 by a means of detachable joining element, disposed at the terminal portion of hollow vertical columns 32 and/or hollow horizontal beams 34 and/or to sleeve 42. Preferably, the detachable joining element, disposed between hollow vertical columns 32 and horizontal beams 34 is essentially airtight, thereby sustaining keeping inflatable structure 30 erected by the constant flow of positive pressure air source, such as blower 50, configured to continuously form a positive air pressure inside the interconnected interior lumen of hollow vertical columns 32 and/or hollow horizontal beams 34 and/or to sleeve 42 of inflatable structure 30.

[0073] The detachable joining connection between hollow vertical columns 32 and horizontal beams 34 renders hollow vertical columns 32 and horizontal beams 34 exchangeable and/or interchangeable. Accordingly, following a tactic training exercise with live munition, if the hollow vertical columns 32 and/or horizontal beams 34 become too damaged for being patched or repaired, hollow vertical columns 32 and/or horizontal beams 34 are exchangeable and/or interchangeable by another hollow vertical column 32 and/or horizontal beam 34 member. Examples of essentially airtight detachable joining connection include zip fastener, otherwise known as a clasp locker.

[0074] Moreover, the detachable joining connection element between hollow vertical columns 32 and/or horizontal beams 34 renders inflatable structure 30 modular, allowing different and changeable configurations of inflatable structure 30. Thus, for instance, a room-like inflatable structure 30 or a corridor-like structure inflatable structure 30 is optionally constructed by using the same set of hollow vertical columns 32 and/or horizontal beams 34, by interconnecting vertical columns 32 and/or horizontal beams 34 in the desired configuration.

[0075] It should be acknowledged that in some preferred embodiments, there is a combination of detachable joining connection between some hollow vertical columns 32 and horizontal beams 34, with rather permanently connected hollow vertical columns 32 and horizontal beams 34. In such embodiments, combining some permanently connected vertical columns 32 and horizontal beams 34, with some detachably joinable and/or connectable hollow vertical columns 32 and horizontal beams 34, provides for at least one preconnected inflatable structure 30 comprising several pre-connected vertical columns 32 and horizontal beams 34, so that preconnected inflatable structure 30 is connectable by means of some detachably joinable and/or connectable hollow vertical columns 32 and horizontal beams 34, to yet another preconnected inflatable structure 30 comprising several other pre-connected vertical columns 32 and horizontal beams 34. Accordingly, a plurality of preconnected inflatable structures 30, each comprising several pre-connected vertical columns 32 and horizontal beams 34, are connectable by means of some detachably joinable and/or connectable hollow vertical columns 32 and horizontal beams 34, to each other, thereby forming exceedingly complex and modular super-structures, comprising a plurality of preconnected inflatable structure 30.

[0076] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited by what has been particularly shown and described herein above. Rather the scope of the invention is defined by the claims which follow:

Claims

1. A system for tactic training with firearm weapons in a simulated urban environment comprises:

(a) a shooting range for firearm weapons comprising:

(I) at least one backstop wall comprising at least one material configured for absorbing firearm projectiles and for retaining said projectiles, thereby preventing ricochets;

(II) an anti-ricochet floor comprising at least one material configured for retaining said projectiles;

(b) an inflatable structure configured for simulating said urban environment comprising:

(I) a plurality of vertical columns comprising a hollow tubular structure, disposed on said anti-ricochet floor;

(II) a plurality of horizontal beams comprising a hollow tubular structure, supported by said vertical columns;

(III) a plurality of sheets comprising a flexible opaque material, configured to form partitions in said inflatable structure;

(IV) a first set of fasteners attached to at least one member selected from the group consisting of: said horizontal beams and said vertical columns;

(V) a second set of fasteners attached to said sheets, wherein second set of fasteners is readily and reversibly attachable to said first set of fasteners, thereby rendering said sheets attachable said horizontal beams and/or said vertical columns;

(VI) at least one sleeve for inflating said inflatable structure, comprising a hollow tubular structure, wherein an interior lumen of said sleeve forms a continuum with an interior lumen of at least one member selected from the group consisting of: at least one of said vertical columns and at least one of said horizontal beams;

(c) a pressurized air source attachable to said sleeve, configured to provide a continuous supply of said pressurized air and thereby maintaining said inflatable structure erected.

2. The system as in claim 1, wherein said shooting range comprises at least one shape selected from the group consisting of: a circular shape, rounded shape, oval shape and elliptic shape.

3. The system as in claim 1, wherein said inflatable structure comprises at least one shape selected from the group consisting of: a shape of a building, shape of a house with compartments, shape of a terrestrial vehicle, shape of an aerial vehicle and shape of a waterborne vessel.

4. The system as in claim 1, wherein at least one component of said inflatable structure selected from the group consisting of: said columns, said beams, said sheets and said sleeve comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of: non flammable material, fire retardant material and fire resistance material.

5. The system as in claim 1, wherein at least one component of said inflatable structure selected from the group consisting of: said columns, said beams and said sleeve, comprise a detachable joining connection element disposed at a terminal portion thereof, configured for forming readily connectable essentially airtight joining in- between at least two component of said inflatable structure selected from the group consisting of: said columns, said beams and said sleeve.

6. The system as in claim 1 , wherein further comprises at least one target selected from the group consisting of: a stationary target, mobile target, proximity target and remote target, is attachable to at least one component of said system selected from the group consisting of: said anti-ricochet floor, said columns, said beams and said sheet.

7. The system as in claim 1, wherein said system comprises at least one onsite repair kit configured for repairing raptures in said inflatable structure punctured by said projectiles.

8. The system as in claim 1, wherein said pressurized air pump is configured for supplying a surplus airflow into said inflatable structure.

9. A method of performing tactic training with firearm weapons in a simulated urban environment comprises:

(a) providing a shooting range for firearm weapons comprising:

(I) at least one backstop wall composing configured for absorbing firearm projectiles and for retaining said projectiles;

(II) an anti-ricochet floor configured for retaining said projectiles;

(b) providing an inflatable structure configured for simulating said urban environment comprising:

(I) a plurality of vertical columns comprising a hollow tubular structure;

(II) a plurality of horizontal beams comprising a hollow tubular structure;

(III) a plurality of sheets comprising a flexible opaque material;

(IV) a first set of fasteners attached to said horizontal beams and/or said vertical columns; (V) a second set of fasteners attached to said sheets, reversibly attachable to said first set of fasteners;

(VI) at least one sleeve for inflating said inflatable structure, comprising a hollow tubular structure forming a continuum with an interior lumen of at least one of said vertical columns and/or said horizontal beams;

(c) deploying said inflatable structure on said anti-ricochet floor of said shooting range;

(d) providing a pressurized air source and attaching said pressurized air source to said sleeve;

(e) forming a continuous flow of said pressurized air into said sleeve, thereby erecting said inflatable structure;

(f) forming at least one partition in said inflatable structure by attaching said sheets at least one member selected from the group consisting of: said vertical columns and said horizontal beams;

(g) performing tactic training with firearm weapons, wherein said tactic training comprising discharging firearm projectiles from said firearm weapons from within said inflatable structure, at least in a direction of said at least one backstop wall.

10. The method, as in claim 9, further comprises attaching to at least one target of said system at least one tactical training target selected from the group consisting of: a stationary target, mobile target, proximity target and remote target.

11. The method, as in claim 9, further comprises attaching at least one target selected from the group consisting of: a shooting target of an innocent figure and shooting target of a non-innocent figure, to at least one component of said system.

12. The method as in claim 9, wherein said performing said tactic training further comprises identifying at least one target selected from the group consisting of: a shooting target of an innocent figure and shooting target of a non-innocent figure.