Modular Target With Interlocking Notches For Tool-Free Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shooting targets require complex installation processes involving tools like nuts, bolts, and welding, making them cumbersome and difficult to assemble and disassemble.
Innovation Solution
A modular target system comprising interlocking components that can be assembled and disassembled without external tools, featuring a base, target supports, and a target cross-member with notches and hollow mounts, allowing for easy assembly and customization, and providing structural support and impact absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional targets use nuts, bolts, and welding for assembly, then structural strength is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The target system is divided into modular components (base, target support, cross-member, target) that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each component has standardized notches and mounting features that enable tool-free connection while maintaining structural integrity through precise geometric interlocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The target support features notches that receive and nest the cross-member, creating a hierarchical nesting structure. The target is then nested onto the cross-member through corresponding mounting features. This nested arrangement provides structural strength through interlocking geometry while enabling easy assembly and disassembly without tools.
2Reliability
If conventional targets require welding and bolts, then reliability is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The notches and mounting features are pre-formed during manufacturing with precise dimensions and orientations. This preliminary action ensures that when components are assembled, they automatically align and interlock correctly, providing reliable assembly without requiring time-consuming field adjustments or specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular components are designed to be self-assembling through their geometric features. The notches and mounting features automatically guide alignment and secure connections when components are brought together, eliminating the need for external tools, welding equipment, or complex assembly procedures, thus reducing both time and complexity.
3Ease of operation
If modular components are used, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The notched connection features are designed as universal interfaces that serve multiple functions: structural support, alignment guidance, and easy disengagement. The same basic notch geometry is used across different components (base-to-support, support-to-cross-member), reducing the need for specialized features and simplifying the overall design despite the modular nature.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for a modular target. The modular target system has a target coupled to at least one target support. The target support is coupled to a base. The target support has notches on the upper distal end. The modular target system has separate components which can be assembled and disassembled without coupling devices such as bolts, screws, etc. This allows the modular target to be stored in more compact locations and configurations.