Modular Target Hanger and Stand for Uneven Terrain Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing target systems for shooting ranges are cumbersome to transport, unstable on uneven terrain, and lack versatility in accommodating different types and sizes of targets, requiring multiple trips for setup and maintenance, and do not effectively manage shrapnel direction or target durability.
Innovation Solution
A modular target stand with foldable legs for easy transport, adjustable articulating legs for stability, and interchangeable target hangers that can hold multiple targets in various orientations, including steel and paper, with features for quick target switching and shrapnel management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the target stand uses fixed legs for stability, then stability on uneven terrain is improved, but transportability and storage ease deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs articulating legs with pivot joints that can dynamically adjust between extended and folded positions. The legs transition from a static folded state for transport to a dynamic extended state for stability, allowing the structure to adapt to different operational requirements through mechanical movement rather than fixed configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand is divided into separable components including the base, articulating legs, and target hanger assembly. This segmentation allows the legs to be independently positioned and folded, enabling compact storage while maintaining structural integrity and stability when deployed in the extended position.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the target hanger accommodates multiple target types and orientations, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The target hanger is designed as a universal mounting structure with multiple attachment points and adjustable orientations that can accommodate various target types including steel plates and paper targets. The standardized interface and modular design allow a single hanger structure to serve multiple functions without requiring separate specialized fixtures for each target type.
Solution Approach 2:
The hanger incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow dynamic changing of target orientations and types. The quick-release mechanisms and adjustable mounting positions enable the hanger to adapt to different target configurations without permanent modifications, maintaining versatility while controlling complexity through standardized adjustable components.
3Productivity
If the target stand is designed for quick target switching, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing precision and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-release mechanism is pre-configured with alignment features and predetermined engagement positions that guide the target mounting process. The pre-designed slot and tab configurations, along with spring-loaded retention systems, eliminate the need for complex real-time adjustments during target switching, achieving rapid changes through pre-engineered precision features.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick-release system uses dynamic elements such as spring-loaded latches and movable retention clips that automatically engage and disengage targets. These dynamic components provide precise positioning through elastic deformation and controlled mechanical movement, enabling fast target switching while maintaining adequate manufacturing tolerances through the compliance of spring-based mechanisms.
4Strength
If the stand components are made sturdy to withstand wind and target weight, then strength is improved, but weight of the stand increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stand employs dynamic bracing mechanisms where crossbars and support elements can be extended or repositioned based on load requirements. When targets are mounted, the bracing elements extend to provide additional structural support, allowing the stand to achieve high strength only when needed rather than being permanently over-engineered, thus reducing overall weight while maintaining strength during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand structure is segmented into modular components including the base, legs, crossbars, and target hanger assembly. This segmentation allows strategic placement of high-strength materials only in critical load-bearing areas while using lighter materials in non-critical sections, optimizing the strength-to-weight ratio by concentrating structural reinforcement where it is most needed rather than uniformly throughout the entire structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A target hanger includes a hanger body having a top plate and a bottom plate spaced apart by a first side plate and a second side plate. The first side plate and the second side plate define a gap therebetween to receive a support member therein to mount the target hanger on the support member. One or both of the top plate and the bottom plate define an aperture therethrough where the aperture coincides with the gap to allow passage of the support member through the aperture. One or both of the top plate and the bottom plate further define a plurality of slots proximate a peripheral edge of the top plate and/or the bottom plate. Each slot of the plurality of slots selectively receives a target mount therein to present the target to a user.