Mechanical Target Reset System via Cam Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing target systems require manual resetting, which is time-consuming and potentially dangerous, especially when multiple systems are in use nearby, and electronic systems are complex, expensive, and power-dependent.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical target system with a frame, rotatably connected target and reset, locking, and unlocking systems that allow targets to be reset from a distance without the need for manual intervention or power, using cams and pins to transition between locked and unlocked positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual resetting of targets is used, then the system is simple and does not require power source, but the resetting process is time-consuming and potentially dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The target system performs automatic resetting through a mechanical self-service mechanism. When a target is struck, it rotates to a struck position and remains there until another target is struck, which automatically triggers the resetting sequence through the mechanical linkage system, eliminating the need for manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
A mechanical intermediary system consisting of cams, followers, and linkages connects the struck target to the reset target. The struck target acts as an intermediary that, through its new position, mechanically activates the resetting of subsequent targets through the follower-cam mechanism.
2Loss of time
If electronic target systems are used to allow remote resetting, then the resetting operation is safer and faster, but the system becomes complicated, expensive, and requires power source
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic control systems with a pure mechanical substitution approach. Instead of using motors, sensors, and control circuits for remote resetting, the system uses a mechanical linkage system with cams and followers that automatically transfer the resetting action from one target to another through physical contact and mechanical motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the power source and electronic control components from the target resetting system, leaving only a passive mechanical system that operates entirely through the kinetic energy of the struck targets themselves, eliminating complexity while maintaining automatic resetting functionality.
3Reliability
If targets are arranged in a sequence requiring manual reset, then the system is simple in design, but it becomes dangerous when multiple marksmen are using target systems nearby
Solution Approach 1:
The target system uses self-service automation where the struck target automatically triggers the resetting of subsequent targets through mechanical linkage. This eliminates the need for operators to physically move between targets, removing them from dangerous zones and improving safety while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical linkage system acts as an intermediary that safely transfers the resetting function from the operator to the target system itself. The follower-cam mechanism mediates between the struck target and the reset target, allowing remote resetting without human intervention in the danger zone.
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanical target system is disclosed, including a frame; a target rotatably connected to the frame; a reset rotatably connected to the frame; a locking system configured to hold the target in a locked position; and an unlocking system configured to release the target from the locked position. Contacting the target can move the target from an unlocked position to the locked position. Contacting the reset can move the target from the locked position to the unlocked position.