Conveyor Moving Target System for Shooting Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stationary targets fail to adequately challenge shooters and prepare them for real-life situations, particularly for hunting, as they do not simulate the movement of actual targets.
Innovation Solution
A moving target system comprising a conveyor system supported by outer supports, which creates an endless loop path for targets to move along, powered by a supply that allows continuous movement, enabling targets to be easily set up on various surfaces and remain stable during use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a stationary target is used, then the target structure is simple and stable, but the shooting training effectiveness is reduced because it does not simulate real-life situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the stationary target into a moving target system. The conveyor system continuously moves targets along a path, making the target position and motion state dynamic rather than static. This simulates real-life shooting scenarios where targets are in motion, thereby improving training effectiveness while managing system complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system acts as an intermediary mechanism between the stationary support structure and the moving targets. It mediates the motion transfer, allowing targets to move along a controlled path without requiring complex mechanical structures. The conveyor belt or chain system provides a simple yet effective means to achieve target motion, resolving the contradiction between effectiveness and complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If a moving target system is implemented, then the shooting training realism is improved, but the system complexity and setup difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The target system is segmented into independent components: the conveyor mechanism, the target holders, the power supply unit, and the support structure. Each component can be assembled and adjusted separately, making the overall system easier to set up and operate. The targets themselves are individual units that can be independently replaced or modified, enhancing adaptability while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system is designed with universal features that allow it to accommodate different types of targets and be set up on various surfaces. The modular design enables the same basic system to serve multiple training scenarios, from stationary to moving targets, thereby improving versatility without proportionally increasing setup complexity
3Reliability
If targets move continuously in an endless loop, then the shooting challenge is enhanced, but the power consumption and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous high-speed motion, the system employs periodic action by moving targets at controlled intervals along the endless loop. The conveyor system can operate at variable speeds, allowing targets to move slowly or remain relatively stationary for extended periods, then move to new positions. This periodic motion pattern maintains training effectiveness while significantly reducing power consumption compared to continuous high-speed operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses simple, low-cost target objects that can be quickly replaced rather than expensive, complex targets requiring precise tracking and control. These simple targets move along the conveyor loop and can be easily swapped out, allowing the system to maintain challenging motion patterns without requiring high-power motors or complex control systems, thereby reducing overall energy consumption
Data Source
AI summary
A moving target system for efficiently improving the accuracy of a shooter. The moving target system generally includes a first outer support, a second outer support, wherein the second outer support is distally spaced from the first outer support and a conveyor system supported by the first outer support and the second outer support, wherein the conveyor system is adapted for movement in an endless loop. A power supply is connected to the conveyor system, wherein the power supply is adapted to move the conveyor system. At least one target is also attached to the conveyor system, wherein the at least one target moves with the conveyor system along the endless loop.