Abstract

A system and method are provided for controlling the operation of a weapon, such as a hand gun, to prevent it from being accidentally operated or operated by a person who is not the owner of the weapon or someone who is not authorized to use the weapon. In one form, a microminiature electronic circuit is provided within the weapon and is operable to generate a radio frequency energy field in the vicinity of the trigger for the weapon. An electrical device, such as an inductor, is supported on the wrist or finger of the person owning the gun and serves as an absorber of some of the field energy which energy absorption is detected by a suitable detector forming part of the electronic circuit whereupon a control signal is generated for controlling a motor or solenoid to operate a stop or latch in a manner to disengage an operating portion of the weapon, such as the trigger or trigger mechanism and allow such mechanism to be manually operated. In another form, a passive electronic circuit worn on the arm or finger of the person owning or authorized to use the weapon, becomes activated by field energy generated by the electronic circuit supported in the weapon and generates a signal or code which is short wave transmitted to the weapons electronic circuit causing a control signal to be generated which operates a motor or solenoid which drives a latch or stop to a position whereby the weapon may be operated.