Received: August 30, 2024
Accepted: March 04, 2025
Available: March 31, 2025
Simulation systems play a crucial role in firearms training by offering advantages such as the progressive improvement of shooting skills, reduced logistical costs, ammunition savings, and decreased need for personnel deployment to shooting ranges. A common feature of current systems is the use of wired communication between components, which ensures stability but introduces latency in data transmission. Moreover, wired setups limit their use in outdoor environments due to the lack of access to a power source. This study developed an image-processing-based method to replace live ammunition with a laser-emitting device. The methodology was structured in four phases: (1) system requirements analysis, (2) hardware and software development, (3) system integration with a real firearm, and (4) functional testing in both controlled and open environments. The system incorporates an automatic calibration mechanism that adapts to ambient lighting to ensure accuracy. When the trigger is pulled, the laser activates and projects onto an LCD screen; a camera captures the impact, and an integrated system detects the (x, y) coordinates. As a result, the prototype achieved an accuracy of 95.4% with latency under 80 ms. In conclusion, a portable, wireless system was designed, adaptable to various lighting conditions, consisting of 10 lanes with components specifically designed to integrate with a real firearm—offering a versatile and efficient alternative for training purposes.
Keywords: Embedded systems, image processing, lasers, shooting range, simulation systems.
Los sistemas de simulación desempeñan un papel crucial en el entrenamiento de tiro, al ofrecer ventajas como la mejora progresiva de las habilidades del tirador, reducción de costos logísticos, ahorro de munición y menor necesidad de despliegue de personal a los polígonos de tiro. Un rasgo común en los sistemas actuales es el uso de comunicación por cable entre componentes, lo cual proporciona estabilidad, pero introduce latencia en la transmisión de datos. Además, las configuraciones cableadas limitan su uso en entornos exteriores por la falta de acceso a una fuente de energía. Este estudio desarrolló un método basado en procesamiento de imágenes para reemplazar la munición real por un dispositivo emisor láser. La metodología se estructuró en cuatro fases: (1) análisis de requisitos del sistema, (2) desarrollo de hardware y software, (3) integración del sistema con un arma de fuego real y (4) pruebas funcionales en ambientes controlados y abiertos. El sistema incorpora un mecanismo de calibración automática que se adapta a la iluminación ambiental para garantizar precisión. Al accionar el gatillo, el láser se activa y proyecta sobre una pantalla LCD; una cámara captura el impacto y un sistema integrado detecta las coordenadas (x, y). Como resultado, el prototipo alcanzó una precisión del 95.4 %, con una latencia inferior a 80 ms. En conclusión, se diseñó un sistema portátil, inalámbrico y adaptable a distintas condiciones de luz, compuesto por 10 pistas con componentes diseñados para integrarse con un arma de fuego real, como alternativa versátil y eficiente para el entrenamiento.
Palabras clave: Sistemas embebidos, procesamiento de imágenes, láseres, polígono de tiro, sistemas de simulación.
The National Army of Colombia, in collaboration with military training academies, is enhancing the military education of future service members, particularly in the field of marksmanship, using innovative simulation technologies and training support systems. These advances aim to improve skills, optimize time and resources, and address key concerns such as ammunition conservation during shooting practice, the additional costs associated with live-fire training, and the increased risk of accidents.
Therefore, the development of a portable system to facilitate rapid shooting practice is justified, integrating as a complementary tool within rigorous training with the Galil 5.56 mm rifle. This system is envisioned as a new resource to reinforce marksmanship training, serving as an additional asset within a comprehensive instructional program to ensure the progressive development of students' skills and practices.
Furthermore, the primary objective of this work is to present the development of the technology implemented in the LID-ESMIC, providing a foundation for future research aimed at assessing the impact of simulator-based training on shooters' performance and their physiological and psychological responses under controlled conditions.
This work proposes a laser impact detection method called “LID-ESMIC,” implemented in a portable shooting practice system known as the Portable Laser Polygon (PLP). In this system, real ammunition is replaced by a laser device that impacts a digital target with Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) technology. These impact signals are captured and stored using image processing techniques to precisely determine the silhouette of the impact point.
The National Army of Colombia operates Instruction, Training, and Retraining Battalions (BITER), with at least one of these battalions present in each of the Army’s divisions and its 26 brigades
Figure 1A shows one of the ten (10) subsystems of the PLP developed by the research group in Engineering and Simulation from the Military School of Cadets General José María Cordova
In general terms, the trajectory of a projectile is represented by a laser light beam, allowing the system to detect impact coordinates on the LCD screen. A calibrated camera continuously scans the target, capturing a set of three (3) images associated with the shooting instant
At an international level, various laser shooting simulation systems with image processing have been developed. However, these systems present limitations that affect their accuracy and applicability in military training. Recent research has analyzed human performance in virtual reality shooting simulators and their potential application in military training
Unlike these approaches, LID-ESMIC not only integrates an impact detection system but also incorporates an electromechanical recoil mechanism, providing a more realistic shooting experience using a real rifle. Furthermore, its portable design allows the system to adapt to any real-world scenario, ensuring its implementation in various operational environments without the need for a fixed infrastructure
Other studies have explored how brightness and contrast levels in virtual reality simulations can induce motion sickness
LID-ESMIC aims to overcome these limitations by integrating computer vision and an electromechanical recoil system, providing a more realistic shooting experience with the Galil ACE 23 rifle. Unlike other simulators that require controlled lighting conditions to ensure effective laser detection, studies have shown that natural light can affect accuracy in some systems
While other simulation systems may require large screens, high-performance workstations, projectors, or advanced development engines to emulate realistic environments, LID-ESMIC stands out for its operational simplicity and ease of deployment. Its design enables instructors and shooters to conduct shooting practice without relying on fixed infrastructure, ensuring both safety and efficiency in training. Moreover, unlike other reviewed studies, which require dark rooms to ensure shooting effectiveness due to the interference of natural light with laser detection, LID-ESMIC has been developed to function under varying lighting conditions, allowing its use in open spaces without compromising detection accuracy. This represents a significant advantage compared to more complex solutions, which may be challenging to implement in mobile and constantly shifting military environments.
Image processing requires high-performance computing, which means having good memory and processing resources. The Raspberry Pi 3 B Model board was selected as the central process unit, in charge of detecting the laser impact. It has a Quad-Core 1.2 GHz Broadcom BCM2837 64-bit Central Process Unit, 1 GB RAM, BCM43438 wireless LAN, and the Operating System Raspbian GNU/Linux. It can be programmed using Python language
In the following section, a general methodology is described, and the most relevant technical characteristics of the hardware are shown. The result section will provide the algorithms implemented for laser impact detection. Then, a discussion is made considering the current technology implemented by the Colombian National Army. Finally, the main conclusion will be presented for future references to improve the proposed method.
The portable laser range system is based on the development of an electronic prototype capable of emulating the shooting exercises performed by Colombian soldiers or security and defense professionals. Therefore, this project corresponds to applied research, as its objective is grounded in the implementation of technical concepts such as electronics, Wi-Fi communication, and image processing, with the aim of recreating safe scenarios that facilitate the training and instruction processes of shooting ranges. Consequently, research can be defined as having an experimental approach
Research focused on designing and building a device capable of adapting to any terrain and weather conditions, since end users are security professionals who frequently perform their duties in remote areas, often far from cities or regions with limited access to the Internet and electrical power from distribution networks. For this reason, the PLR (Portable Laser Range) became an essential tool, capable of ensuring the continuity and consistency of training sessions without relying on an external power source or communication systems. This enables the implementation of a simulation device that meets validation procedures and has been tested by experts in the field
During project development, four phases were considered aligned with the main research objective (see Figure 2). These phases were defined as follows: (1) Study of device requirements, (2) Electronic and software development, (3) Adaptation of the components developed to the weapon, and (4) Functionality testing.
In the first stage, a review of current technologies and a consultation with experts was conducted to identify key differentiators that would ensure the system's optimal performance and adaptability to the needs of locally employed exercises. This was essential due to the necessity of conducting exercises in open fields and under complex weather conditions. Additionally, technical variables were considered according to regulations and the knowledge of experienced professionals.
In phase 2, based on the captured data, the design and construction of electronic components and software were started. A system was used to enable communication between the laser and the target
In stage 3, the developed components shown in Figure 1 were adapted; the aim is for the user to become accustomed to the weight, control, and reaction of the weapon so that, when exposed to a real scenario, they have the experience of operating the actual components. The implementation of these mechanisms seeks to approximate the user and the instructor to situations as realistic as possible in a controlled environment. Finally, in phase 4, entire system tests were conducted in both closed and open environments to verify its proper functioning
In general terms, the LID-ESMIC algorithm is made up of the following stages:
To ensure accurate laser impact detection, calibrating the target was a crucial step. Initially, the camera captured two images at a resolution of 480x640 pixels: one of a fully black screen and another with a reference pattern. These images were processed to identify the working area by applying corrections for radial and tangential distortions. Subsequently, a Contrast-Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization (CLAHE)
Once the trigger is activated, three frames are captured at 25 ms intervals using a 640x480 resolution. The images are converted from the RGB color space to HSV, isolating red hues (H = 0-25, H = 330-359) to detect the laser impact. Morphological operations, such as erosion and dilation, refine the shape of the impact, and the centroid is determined for the coordinates (x, y)
LID-ESMIC was developed using Python language, specifically to be used with a Raspberry Pi 3 B Model board with Raspbian OS (GNU/Linux), using a “Raspberry Pi-Camera”. The Python language offers the advantage of being a multiplatform interpreted language
The Raspberry Pi Camera is a module (Figure 3A) designed to be connected to the Raspberry Pi via a specific serial interface connector. The camera has an 8-megapixel Sony IMX 219 with fixed lens. It allows taking static pictures of 2592 x 1944 pixels and it is compatible with the following video format: 1080 p – 30 fps, 720 p – 60 fps, 640 x 480 p – 90 fps
The Raspberry Pi Camera v2 is integrated in a board size (25 mm x 20 mm x 9 mm), and weighs just over 3 g, making it perfect for mobiles and other applications where weight and size are important
The Raspberry Pi is an 85 x 56 mm minicomputer Figure 3A and 3B based on an ARM processor. The Raspberry Pi 3 model B has 1 GB ram and a quad core 1.2 GHz Broadcom BCM2837 64-bit CPU processor
A Beamshot 1000 laser was used as shown in Figure 3C. Dimensions are 69 mm x 19 mm, a wavelength of 650 nm (645 ~ 665 nm) / at 455 m, and a dot size of 12.7 mm at 9.11 m, and 102 mm at 91.11 m
A GeChic 1303H (Figure 3D) was used to show the silhouette in which the shooting practice is performed. The screen has a size of 13.3" TFT IPS LCD (16:09), a resolution of 1920 x 108 / 16.7 million colors (antiglare) with HDMI, VGA input, mini-DP, a weight time response of 14 ms typical of the system, and a 1080p HDMI video format (60 Hz / 50 Hz), 1080i (60 Hz / 50 Hz), 720 p (60 Hz / 50 Hz), with a power supply of 5 V / 2 A with micro-USB input
This section presents results related to the calibration and image processing stages of the proposed method.
In general terms, the economic advantages of the current cameras are in contravention of the relative distortion of the image, which can be compensated with a lens calibration procedure
\[ X_{corrected}\; x(1 + K_1r^2+ K_2r^4 + K_3r^6) \tag{1} \]
\[ Y_{corrected}\; y(1 + K_1r^2+ K_2r^4 + K_3r^6) \tag{2} \]
The taking of non-perfectly parallel images to the image plane produces tangential distortion, which can be corrected with (3) and (4).
\[ X_{corrected}\; x + [2p_1xy + p_2(r^2+2x^2)] \tag{3} \]
\[ Y_{corrected}\; y + [p_1(r^2+2y^2) + 2p_2xy] \tag{4} \]
Where: [k1, k2, k3, p1, p2]: are the distortion parameters. The conversion of units can be made with (5).
\[ \left[ \begin{array}{c} x \\ y \\ z \end{array} \right] = \left[ \begin{array}{ccc} f_x & 0 & c_x \\ 0 & f_y & c_y \\ 0 & 0 & 1 \end{array} \right] \left[ \begin{array}{c} X \\ Y \\ Z \end{array} \right] \tag{5} \]
Where 𝑓𝑥′ 𝑓𝑦 are the focal distances in the horizontal axis (x) and vertical (y), and 𝑐𝑥′ 𝑐𝑦 are the optical centers expressed in pixel coordinates for each axis.
If a common focal distance is used for both axes, then 𝑓𝑦= 𝑓𝑥 ∗ 𝑎. The matrix that contains these four parameters is called the camera matrix
The calibration aims to determine the distortion parameters and the unit conversion matrix
The laser impact detection on the screen requires a calibrated camera, to detect the laser impact coordinates in the most accurate possible area. Figure 4 shows the image with the white reference contour used as a pattern in the calibration procedure.
The algorithm implemented demonstrated its effectiveness in precisely detecting the inner white corners of the calibration pattern (Figure 4). The system captured and processed two high-resolution pixels (480 x 640), with a 4:9 aspect relation and a RGB plane color (Red, Green, Blue)
After grayscale conversion, Contrast-Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization (CLAHE)
The preprocessing stage successfully enhanced the image contrast, enabling a more precise detection of the reference pattern's inner corners. The Harris corner detection algorithm
To further improve the efficiency of the detection process, the image was segmented into four equal sections (320x240 pixels). Each section generated individual templates of ten pixels per side with embedded five-pixel overlays, as illustrated in Figure 5. Then, a correlation analysis was performed within each section to locate the best matching pattern. In cases where multiple potential matches were found, the system selected the one with the highest correlation score, ensuring a robust and precise calibration process. This segmentation strategy significantly reduced processing time while maintaining detection reliability, reinforcing the adaptability of the system under varying operational conditions.
To improve the accuracy of laser impact detection, the Gaussian defocus algorithm was applied to minimize noise interference. This process used a linear filter to smooth the values of the pixels, ensuring that the output reflected a weighted sum of the input pixels
In cases where the initial calibration was unsuccessful, the software automatically performed up to five recalibration attempts until a high-quality acquisition was achieved. This iterative process ensured that detected edges were correctly aligned and stored as a reference for subsequent laser impact detection. The ability of the system to self-adjust minimized errors and ensure repeatability across different training environments.
Figure 6 illustrates the target calibration process under standard lighting conditions (200–400 lumens/m²). The system initially captured two reference images: a fully black screen (Figure 6A) and an image containing the calibration pattern (Figure 6B). By computing the difference between these two images (Figure 6C), the algorithm extracted the key features necessary for accurate distortion correction. Figures 6D and 6E present the results of applying radial and tangential distortion corrections, followed by the CLAHE filter to enhance image contrast. The final binarized image (Figure 6F) delineated the working area, ensuring precise detection of laser impact. While there were minor noise artifacts, they did not significantly affect the overall accuracy of the calibration process
Initially, three photograms were captured at 25 ms intervals with 640 x 480 resolution. Once the trigger is activated, a command is sent to the target for camera activation from the power supplier (Figure 1b, 3) via the 802.11ac Wi-Fi protocol
The camera detects the beam light in two (02) possible scenarios depending on the laser impact location: first) in a unique photogram; or second) the impact covers two (02) photograms, as shown in Figure 7, in this case the detection algorithm considers only the first photogram in which the laser impacts the LCD screen, avoiding to analyze beam light trajectories.
In this stage, methods to detect the laser impact coordinates (x, y) are implemented, and the following class was developed. Image transformation methods from the RGB plane to the HSV (Hue Saturation Value) are implemented. The hue (H) ranges are selected to focus on the red color (H=0-25, H=330-359). Due to the hue red values in the two (02) sections, an OR operation must be done to create one unique mask. The image is binarized in such way that the red color is represented as white (laser impact), and the rest of the components are given as black. Morphological operations (erosion and dilation) are applied to highlight the structure of the laser impact. Finally, the contour of impact detection is drawn, and the coordinates are determined as the centroid
The laser impact contour is shown in Figure 8A; once the contour is delimited, it is used to determine the centroid (Figures 8B and 8C). Finally, the target processing unit (Raspberry Pi model 3b) transmits the data frame via Wi-Fi 802.11ac with the information about detection in the following format: (center in X; center in Y; shot identification; target number; target address). Figure 9 shows the laser impact detection during a shooting practice.
The detection from a sample of fifty (50) laser shots at a simulated distance of 20 m, considering scale 1: is presented in Table 1. The detected coordinates by the proposed method (Xs and Ys) correspond in all cases to visual inspection.
According to the results, the military instructor can evaluate the shooters accurately since in the silhouette and table of coordinates the point where the laser beam hit simulating a projectile is fixed. As is well known, these silhouettes have different scores around the image, which is why the aim of the shooter is to hit the center of the figure or parts where the highest score is given.
The PLP system, being a controlled environment, can instruct military personnel in different shooting techniques, because it does not expose the physical integrity of the personnel and does not generate over costs for the training of such practices, therefore, by identifying the points of impact by the method used (Xs,Ys) guarantees an objective and efficient evaluation, where the shooters develop their skills under the constant training and feedback reviewed by the instructors.
Finally, the laser impact detection algorithm demonstrated an average accuracy of 95.6 % under controlled lighting conditions (200–400 lumens/m²). At a simulated shooting distance of 20 meters, the system maintained a deviation of ±3 pixels on the x-axis and ±4 pixels on the y-axis (Table 1).
| Distance = 5m | |||||
| Shot | Xs | Ys | Shot | Xs | Ys |
| 1 | 386.133 | 259.466 | 26 | 219.733 | 208.799 |
| 2 | 354.133 | 525.866 | 27 | 381.866 | 342.933 |
| 3 | 386.133 | 497.066 | 28 | 430.933 | 259.199 |
| 4 | 288.533 | 138.133 | 29 | 426.666 | 187.199 |
| 5 | 174.933 | 442.399 | 30 | 356.266 | 244.533 |
| 6 | 198.400 | 436.533 | 31 | 458.667 | 456.533 |
| 7 | 477.866 | 249.333 | 32 | 403.200 | 461.600 |
| 8 | 328.533 | 599.999 | 33 | 189.867 | 615.200 |
| 9 | 369.066 | 367.999 | 34 | 514.133 | 287.733 |
| 10 | 394.666 | 246.133 | 35 | 445.867 | 202.667 |
| 11 | 409.600 | 576.800 | 36 | 437.333 | 208.533 |
| 12 | 337.067 | 506.400 | 37 | 313.600 | 346.667 |
| 13 | 364.800 | 556.800 | 38 | 254.933 | 176.000 |
| 14 | 373.333 | 151.200 | 39 | 277.333 | 544.800 |
| 15 | 401.067 | 293.867 | 40 | 371.200 | 595.733 |
| 16 | 354.133 | 522.667 | 41 | 420.266 | 238.933 |
| 17 | 266.667 | 240.267 | 42 | 335.733 | 396.799 |
| 18 | 354.133 | 563.733 | 43 | 320.000 | 622.933 |
| 19 | 366.933 | 219.200 | 44 | 199.733 | 272.533 |
| 20 | 337.067 | 178.667 | 45 | 301.600 | 402.933 |
| 21 | 381.866 | 178.666 | 46 | 471.466 | 556.266 |
| 22 | 396.800 | 537.599 | 47 | 217.600 | 243.466 |
| 23 | 232.533 | 244.533 | 48 | 230.400 | 274.933 |
| 24 | 209.866 | 495.466 | 49 | 251.733 | 356.266 |
| 25 | 390.933 | 238.666 | 50 | 234.666 | 183.466 |
A total of 50 laser shots were analyzed to validate the detection system, ensuring that the coordinates (x, y) corresponded precisely to the expected impact locations. The algorithm correctly identified impact points within a 1 cm margin of error in more than 98 % of the cases.
Additionally, the system was tested in both indoor and outdoor environments to evaluate its robustness. In outdoor conditions with natural light, the detection accuracy remained above 92 %, demonstrating its adaptability to real-world operational scenarios. Unlike other systems that require controlled environments with artificial lighting to function optimally, the PLP system exhibited resilience under various lighting conditions.
During the validation phase, the electromechanical recoil simulation was assessed in terms of usability and realism. Test participants reported that the simulated recoil accurately replicated that of the Galil 5.56 mm rifle, contributing to a more immersive and realistic training experience. The feedback from the military instructors indicated that the system successfully replicated real-world shooting scenarios, allowing shooters to practice without live ammunition while maintaining an authentic training environment.
The usability of the system Graphical User Interface (GUI) (Figure 10) was also evaluated. The control interface allowed instructors to monitor shooting sessions in real time, track shooter performance, and generate detailed reports on shot accuracy and dispersion patterns. As shown in Figure 10, the GUI displayed individual shooter statistics, impact positions on targets, and a summary of training sessions, ensuring an effective feedback mechanism for military personnel.
These findings confirm that the PLP system provides a practical and effective alternative to traditional marksmanship training, reducing costs and safety risks while maintaining high-fidelity simulation capabilities. The portability of the system further enhances its applicability in remote training locations where the infrastructure is limited.
Currently, the Military School of Cadets General José María Córdova has implemented the training system “BeamHit 460 Laser Marksmanship”
A comparative analysis based on the current simulators described, and the developed system (PLP), is presented in Table 2.
| Current Technology (Beamhit simulators) | Portable Laser Polygon (PLP) |
| Continuous connection is required to the power grid supply | Use of rechargeable batteries, allowing a portable system |
| Electrostatic sensitivity filters are required in data cables. | No data cables are used for communication, all communication is done through a wireless network |
| Weapon and target are independent, and any target can get shots from any weapon, regardless of the one assigned. | Weapon and target are part of a synchronized system, which does not interfere with other users in the line shot. |
| Silhouettes according to country of manufacture | Silhouettes according to the Colombian doctrine |
| Manual configuration of the number of shots according to the shooting practice exercise is required | The number of shots is set automatically according to the shooting practice exercise defined in the doctrine. |
| Recoil by compressed air or CO2, which implies monthly expenses, or the simulators do not have this feature | Weapon recoil is achieved with electric DC motors (no external expenses) |
| Maintenance and spare parts are imported | Maintenance is carried out by Colombian Army personnel, and most spare parts are obtained in the national market |
Verifying the information presented in the table, improvements can be observed regardless of simulators with similar characteristics found on the market. As for the administration software, it is possible to select the long weapon exercises established by the Colombian Army. On the other hand, it allows visualization of information about each target, battery levels, real-time results, and the generation of customized reports according to target, shooter, and exercise. Figure 9 shows the graphic user interface of the administration software.
The PLP system represents a significant advancement in military shooting training compared to other established simulators. Unlike the BeamHit 460 Laser Marksmanship
Existing research highlights the importance of physiological monitoring to improve shooting accuracy and stress response during training. Studies on heart rate variability in shoot/don't-shoot scenarios indicate that physiological feedback in real time can improve decision making under stress
A contentious topic in marksmanship training is the efficacy of video game-based simulators. Although VR-based systems improve cognitive response and reaction times, they lack realistic recoil, weapon weight, and environmental factors crucial for military training
Another challenge with current simulators is maintenance and operational costs. Systems such as BeamHit and VirTra require imported and specialized components, increasing long-term costs
Environmental adaptability is another crucial factor in effective training. Studies on optical tracking in VR simulators indicate that lighting conditions significantly impact accuracy in laser-based training
The debate over the effectiveness of different shooting simulators continues as emerging research introduces low-cost and optoelectronic-based solutions. For example, studies on optoelectronic tracking in shooting simulators show that precision in laser detection can be improved by improving image processing algorithms
Furthermore, previous research on augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) simulators emphasizes their ability to improve reaction time and decision making skills
These findings establish the PLP system as a cost-effective, mobile, and highly adaptable alternative to traditional simulators. It enhances realism, field applicability, and affordability, making it a valuable tool for military training. Future research should focus on long-term performance evaluations and the integration of AI-driven biometric analysis to further refine the skill assessment of shooters.
By bridging the gap between virtual training and real-world firearm handling, the PLP system emerges as a pioneering approach to military marksmanship training, offering a comprehensive, field-deployable solution that meets modern training needs.
The PLP is a portable device that allows simulating polygon exercises in real time, with a minimum distance of 5 meters, optimizing the consumption of ammunition to perform this practice, this system is integrated by a hardware capable of capturing and transmitting real-time data of the exercise performance, it also has a software capable of running on in different operating systems being responsible for processing said data captured in the shooting practice, such information travels through a bidirectional wireless link with the ability to be encrypted, e.g. Bluetooth, radio frequency (RF), etc. It also has a calibration system and alerts to adjust lighting, where it is reported if conditions are adequate to perform exercises.
The PLP system is powered by rechargeable batteries, which allows polygon activities in open fields without the need to rely on a constant supply source. Batteries can be adapted to the rifle in the ammunition loading area so as not to lose the feeling of real handling and shooting.
These exercises can be performed individually or in parallel, generating a report of the score and points hit on the silhouette, thanks to the control system that includes a graphical interface where the instructor can monitor the tests. In this way, reports are generated individually or on all shooting ranges. One of the advantages is that it is possible to perform a simultaneous training in a shooting line made up of one or more ranges, which guarantees its simultaneous application in different scenarios.
For the implementation of the device, it is possible to make use of the Galil 5.56 mm, with four components that integrate the PLP shooting system. As described, the projectile supplier is replaced by the casing in the form of this piece to supply energy to the electronic devices. Then, the laser device is installed which will project the light beam on the silhouette, considering that this laser is linked to the trigger. Finally, the butt of the weapon is replaced by the electromechanical system to simulate the recoil at the time of shooting.
Once the elements for the practice are configured and ready, the control software is started for the administration of the exercises. Shooters are assigned to each target or jointly according to the training objectives. This system has indicators of shooting effectiveness; through a green light, where they indicate that they are available to perform the shot, this system has early alerts that indicate the battery level and time elapsed in the test.
A laser impact detector ESMIC (LID-ESMIC) was developed, which is integrated on the prototype Portable Laser Polygon of the military school of the Military School of Cadets "General José María Córdova". The presented method proposes a lens calibration stage that is primarily responsible for performing correction of the radial and tangential distortion, thus ensuring an appropriate representation of the coordinates in the image being analyzed. The target calibration is an important component on the mobility factor of the PLP, calibration allows operation in different environments conditions. These processes are carried out automatically every time the target is turned on or a shooting practice is restarted.
In this shot simulator system model, an embedded camera is used to detect the laser impact on a certain silhouette, either by a shooting practice directive (Directive 300-7 National Army) or another specific standard. The camera is attached to the target, and the laser to the weapon. It uses a simple and effective image processing technique on a Raspberry Pi using Python OpenCV to detect and locate the red dot of the laser on the target with high precision and accuracy. We managed to detect the coordinates of the laser point on the white screen.
This work has been supported by the assignment to the CTeI of the Escuela Militar de Cadetes "General José María Córdova,” which seeks to improve the training processes and technological development for the benefit of the institution and the nation.
The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest with respect to the publication of this work.
José Antonio García Torres andJhonnatan Eduardo Zamudio: Development of the technology, Design and development of the system software, Image processing and Assembly of the prototype.
Cristian Camilo García Rodriguez: Development of the prototype, Electronic configuration, and Development of the academic text.
Jhon Fredy Rincón Morantes andDaniel Guzmán Pérez: Methodology, Polygon tests, Adapting and arrange the scenarios to carry out the system tests.
Daniel Felipe Molina Martínez: Development and electronic assembly of the device, Methodology, such as manuals, User guides and maintenance of the device.