VirTra Systems Inc. has acquired a patent to for a device in the company's firearms simulators that sends electronic impulses to shock the user and simulate consequences during training.

Prior to Threat Fire, simulation training lacked consequences. Trainees were able to engage simulated hostile forces. However, simulated hostile forces could not feasibly affect the trainees, which greatly reduced the realism of training, according to VirTra. Shoot-back cannons were used but had to be aimed, required eye-protection, caused injuries, required constant cleanup and had a host of other problems, according to the company.

As part of VirTra's ongoing effort to revolutionize firearms simulation training, VirTra invented an electric impulse device called the Threat Fire. The device clips to the trainee, uses a rechargeable battery pack, is wireless and can penetrate many layers of clothing. Threat Fire is adjustable and the normal setting of just 30 milliseconds of electric impulse is enough to add real-world consequences while enhancing the effectiveness of professional simulation training. The Threat Fire device is one of the company's most successful products.

The now-patented Threat Fire is fully integrated into VirTra's simulators. Threat Fire will be sold in a standalone configuration on a case-by-case basis.

"Our determination to solve a potentially life-threatening limitation in simulation training led to a revolutionary new device, the Threat Fire," said Bob Ferris, VirTra's chief executive. "This electric return fire simulator greatly enhances the realism, intensity, and seriousness of all forms of firearms simulation training."

Related: VirTra's Use-of-Force Simulators (video)