Remote aiming system with video display

Abstract

The present invention provides a powered aiming platform for pointing devices such as firearms, illumination devices, or sensing instruments, remotely controlled by a hand-controller device, with video feedback of the aiming position and audio feedback of the exact direction and speed of positioning movements. The present invention overcomes the safety and accuracy limitations of manual and conventional remotely-controlled aiming mechanisms, thereby allowing operators to point devices accurately and quickly with predictable, precise control. In the case of firearms, the present invention maintains a steady position after repeated firing.

1 . An apparatus for pointing an unmodified firearm at a target comprising: 
 (a) a base;    (b) a first rotational mount having a first portion attached to the base and a second portion rotatable about a first axis;    (c) a first actuator having a first electrical input signal to control the rotation of the second portion of the first rotational mount relative to the first portion; and    (d) a carriage that is configured to hold the unmodified firearm with a quick release fastener that allows the firearm to be readily removable from the carriage, wherein the carriage is coupled to the second portion of the first rotational mount.    
   
   
       2 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein the first axis of the first rotational mount is substantially vertical relative to a plane defined by the base.  
   
   
       3 . The apparatus for pointing the firearm of  claim 1  wherein the first axis of the first rotational mount is substantially horizontal relative to a plane defined by the base.  
   
   
       4 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein the device is an optical sensing instrument that transmits an optical image to a remote display.  
   
   
       5 . The apparatus of  claim 4  further comprising: 
 a lens for the optical sensing instrument that variably controls optical magnification of light received by the optical sensor.    
   
   
       6 . The apparatus of  claim 1  wherein the device is a portable firearm.  
   
   
       7 . The apparatus of  claim 6  further comprising: 
 a third actuator that actuates a trigger mechanism on the firearm in response to a third electrical control signal.    
   
   
       8 . The apparatus of  claim 2  further comprising: 
 a user interface that transmits the first electrical input signal to the first actuator, the second electrical input signal to the second actuator and the third electrical input signal to the third actuator.