Collapsible Shooting Target Stand: Tab-Slot Assembly Without Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shooting target stands require multiple tools for assembly and disassembly, are not securely retained, and lack terrain-adjustment capabilities, resulting in flimsy and unstable structures.
Innovation Solution
A shooting target stand with a base, legs, and an upright that uses tab and slot interactions and quick-release pins for tool-free assembly and disassembly, allowing for adjustable upright angles to accommodate terrain and secure component retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If prior art shooting target stands are made disassemblable for transport, then portability is improved, but assembly and disassembly require multiple tools which reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The stand components feature self-aligning tab and slot geometries that guide assembly without tools. The upright's tab inserts into the base's slot, and the leg's tab inserts into the base's slot, with the geometry itself providing alignment and retention features that eliminate the need for external assembly tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand is divided into separable components (base, upright, legs) that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each component has standardized tab-slot interfaces that enable quick connection and disconnection without requiring tool intervention, facilitating easy transport and setup.
2Ease of operation
If components are removed and added without tools, then ease of operation is improved, but components are not securely retained resulting in a flimsy structure
Solution Approach 1:
The tab and slot interfaces incorporate localized geometric features specifically designed for secure retention. The slot width is slightly larger than the tab thickness to allow insertion, while the tab's shape and the slot's geometry create friction and mechanical interlocking that prevent accidental disengagement during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The tab and slot features incorporate curved or rounded geometries that provide smooth insertion while creating secure mechanical engagement. The curved surfaces distribute loads and create friction-based retention that maintains structural integrity without requiring tools for assembly.
3Ease of operation
If the stand is designed for compact packaging, then portability is improved, but adjustment mechanisms for terrain are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The stand incorporates adjustable features that allow the upright and legs to be repositioned relative to the base. The tab-slot interfaces enable the upright to be inserted at different positions along the base, and legs to be adjusted for angle and position, providing terrain adaptability while maintaining a compact disassembled form for transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized tab-slot coupling mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides structural connection, enables adjustability for different terrains, and allows for compact disassembly. The same geometric interface used for basic assembly also facilitates terrain adaptation through repositioning, eliminating the need for separate adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a shooting target stand base. The shooting target stand base allows for portability by breaking down without the need for tools, while also positively retaining the assembled members to allow movement or repositioning of the stand. The construction of the stand base utilizes tab and slot interaction to locate the components in the proper position, and a retaining pin is installed at each location to retain the members. The stand base also allows for multiple configurations of the assembled members to suit specific shooting and location situations.