Mannequin Fall-Direction Control via Electronic Latching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mannequin training systems, such as those made by GDIT, lack realistic fall-direction control and randomization, potentially causing misfires or failing to appear collapsed, and often require significant reconfiguration to change fall directions, with some models relying on magnets that collapse when power is removed unless manually secured.
Innovation Solution
A mannequin training system with sensors and electronically controlled latching mechanisms that allow a computing device to select and control the fall-direction of a mannequin based on sensed hits, using communication interfaces to release pins and control the fall-direction sequence, enabling realistic and randomized falls without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If magnets are used to maintain the target in an upright position, then the target can be easily reset, but the target collapses when power is removed and requires manual securing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the magnetic field-based upright positioning system with a mechanically latched system. The latch mechanism uses physical pins and latches to secure the target in various positions, eliminating dependence on continuous power supply for maintaining position. This mechanical system remains reliable even when power is removed, as the latches physically constrain the target structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanisms are pre-positioned and designed to automatically engage with the target structure at specific points. The pins are preliminarily placed in latch receptacles that correspond to desired fall directions, so that when power is applied, the latches automatically secure the target in the predetermined position without requiring manual intervention.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the target is configured to fall forward, then it simulates a realistic reaction, but it may hit the shooter's weapon and cause a misfire in close quarters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic fall-direction control system where the target can be electronically configured to fall in different directions (forward, backward, left, right) based on training scenario requirements. The latch mechanisms can be released in different sequences to achieve different fall directions, allowing the system to adapt to various training needs while maintaining safety by preventing falls that could harm the shooter.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the target collapses backward, then it appears more realistic, but it is often against a wall and may not appear collapsed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical reconfiguration with an electronic control system. The fall direction is changed by electronically controlling the release sequence of the latch mechanisms, eliminating the need for physical reconfiguration of the target structure. This allows instant switching between different fall directions through electronic commands rather than manual manipulation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If electronic control systems are added to provide fall-direction control, then realistic and randomized falls are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fall-direction control system into separate, modular latch mechanisms that can be independently controlled. Each latch mechanism handles a specific aspect of the fall direction control, and the overall system coordinates these modular components through electronic control. This segmentation allows for manageable complexity while achieving sophisticated fall-direction control and randomization capabilities.
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
The system provides a more realistic and safe training environment by allowing the mannequin to fall in various directions based on the location of the hit, preventing interference with the shooter's weapon and adding uncertainty to training scenarios, thus enhancing the effectiveness of urban operations training.
Implementation Method 1
causing unlatching, by the computing device, of a first latching mechanism to release a first pin to cause the mannequin to begin to fall under gravitational forces
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprising a mannequin and a plurality of sensors coupled to the mannequin configured to generate at least one sensed signal. The system includes first and second latching mechanisms independently controlled, each of the first and second latching mechanisms having a latched state and an unlatched state; and first and second pins providing an axis of rotation, the first pin releasably coupled to the first latching mechanism and the second pin releasably coupled to the second latching mechanism. A computing device is coupled to the plurality of sensors and first and second latching mechanisms via communication interfaces. The computing device selects a fall-direction from a plurality of different fall-direction options based on at least one sensed signal and causes the unlatching of the first latching mechanism to release the first pin or the second latching mechanism to release the second pin based on the selected fall-direction.