Laser Target Apparatus with Self-Service Motor Vibration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional targets do not provide a convenient method for detecting laser light strikes without requiring manual retrieval, as they do not respond to laser light strikes with movement to indicate a hit.

Innovation Solution

A laser targeting apparatus with a housing that includes a laser light detector and a motor, which vibrates when struck by laser light, preventing the apparatus from falling over and allowing it to remain stationary after detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a conventional target is used, then the target can detect laser light strikes, but the target falls over and requires manual retrieval

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaser light strike detectionVSAvoidmanual retrieval requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The target apparatus activates its own motor upon detecting a laser light strike, causing it to vibrate and return to an upright position. This self-correcting mechanism eliminates the need for manual retrieval, allowing the target to service itself after being knocked over

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The target incorporates a sensor that detects when it has been struck by laser light and provides feedback to a control circuit. This feedback triggers the motor to activate, creating a closed-loop system that automatically responds to the strike condition and restores the target to its initial state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Ease of operation

If the target is designed to move upon detection, then manual retrieval is eliminated, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveno manual retrieval neededVSAvoidmotor and sensor integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the detection function (sensor), control function (circuit), and actuation function (motor) into a single integrated target apparatus. These previously separate components are merged into one device, which reduces overall system complexity while achieving the desired automatic retrieval functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables a user to aim or sight with a laser-firing gun without needing to manually retrieve the target, as the apparatus moves upon detection, ensuring stability and ease of use.

Implementation Method 1

A laser targeting apparatus rests on a surface and moves, such as by vibrating or shaking, when struck at certain locations by laser light. The apparatus has a body that houses a laser light detector... for detecting strikes of laser light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

When a strike of laser light is detected, power is provided to the motor, which causes the motor to vibrate and in turn causes the apparatus to move

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10113836B2Moving target activated by laser light
Publication Date: 2018.10.30 CRIMSON TRACE CORP
  • US10113836B2 patent drawing
  • US10113836B2 patent drawing
  • US10113836B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A laser targeting apparatus rests on a surface and moves, such as by vibrating, wobbling, or shaking, when struck by laser light of sufficient intensity. The apparatus is designed not to fall over, so a user does not have to move to the apparatus and pick it up after a strike. The apparatus has a body that includes a structure, which is preferably one or more printed circuit boards including light sensors, for detecting strikes of laser light, and a motor. When a strike of laser light is detected, power is provided to the motor, which vibrates and causes the apparatus to move.