Clay Target Connector and Tension Support System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current target shooting products lack versatility in target design and support mechanisms, particularly in allowing for customizable and easy setup/takedown systems for various types of targets, including clay targets.
Innovation Solution
A target support system featuring a horizontal tension line secured by stakes and rigid support legs, combined with customizable clay target connectors that enable multiple clay targets to be connected in various configurations, creating complex shapes and designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional target support mechanisms are used, then targets can be supported, but versatility in target design and customization is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The horizontal tension line system serves multiple functions: it supports various types of targets (clay targets, paper targets, 3D targets), allows different target configurations (single, multiple, connected), and provides adjustable positioning. The same basic support structure accommodates diverse target designs without requiring specialized mechanisms for each target type.
Solution Approach 2:
The target system is divided into independent modular components: the horizontal tension line support structure, the clay targets themselves, and the connection mechanisms. This segmentation allows users to mix and match components to create customized target arrangements, improving versatility while keeping each individual component relatively simple.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex target configurations are created, then target design versatility improves, but setup and takedown time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The horizontal tension line and support structure are pre-assembled and secured to ground stakes before targets are attached. This preliminary setup creates a ready-made framework that quickly accommodates various target configurations without requiring complex assembly each time targets are changed or removed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration of targets on the horizontal line. Targets can be easily attached, detached, and repositioned along the tension line, enabling rapid changes in target configurations without dismantling the entire support structure, thus reducing setup and takedown time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple clay targets are connected to create custom shapes, then target design versatility improves, but the complexity of the connection system increases
Solution Approach 1:
Connection mechanisms serve as intermediaries between multiple clay targets and the horizontal tension line. These simple connection devices enable targets to be linked together in various configurations without requiring a complex overall system. The intermediary connectors handle the complexity of multi-target arrangements while maintaining simplicity in individual components.
4Ease of operation
If a simple support structure is used, then ease of setup improves, but the ability to support various target types decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The horizontal tension line support structure is designed to be universally compatible with various target types including clay targets, paper targets, and three-dimensional targets. The same simple support mechanism accommodates different target formats without requiring complex adjustments or specialized components for each target type.
Data Source
AI summary
A target is described that includes a plurality of clay targets and a clay target connector having a plurality of clamping ends. Each clamping end is releasably connected to a clay target. A target support structure is described that includes a tension line and a first and second support leg. The tension line is suspended between the first and second support leg with a horizontal tension. First and second guy lines are connected to first and second support legs. A target is suspended from the tension line. The target includes a plurality of clay targets and a clay target connector. The clay target connector includes a plurality of clamping ends. Each clamping end of the plurality of clamping ends is releasably connected to a clay target of the plurality of clay targets. A method to suspend a target is also described.