Movable Carrier Projector for Dynamic Shooting Targets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing targetry systems for firearms training are limited by pre-printed targets that offer limited image variety, high manufacturing costs, frequent replacement needs, and mechanical complexity, lacking realism and dynamic image capabilities, and often require extensive space and infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a movable projector and screen carrier that projects dynamic images onto a screen, allowing for instantaneous target changes and integration of cameras for real-time scoring and feedback, reducing mechanical complexity and costs while enhancing realism and shooter engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pre-printed targets are used, then manufacturing cost increases and image variety is limited, but the system structure remains simple
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses projectors to create optical copies of target images on screens, eliminating the need for physical pre-printed targets. This allows unlimited image variety without incurring printing costs, as digital images can be projected repeatedly without degradation or additional manufacturing expense.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical target manufacturing and handling with an optical projection system. Instead of printing images on physical materials, the system uses projectors to display images optically, thereby eliminating manufacturing costs and enabling dynamic image changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pre-printed targets are used, then target replacement frequency increases, but the mechanical structure remains simple
Solution Approach 1:
By using optical copies projected onto screens, the system eliminates the need for physical target replacement. Images can be changed instantly by updating the projection source, allowing unlimited image diversity without any mechanical replacement operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic image capability through projectors, allowing target images to be changed in real-time without physical replacement. This enables the system to adapt to different training scenarios dynamically while maintaining a simple stationary physical structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If projectors and screens are used, then image realism and dynamic capabilities improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the carrier multi-functional by integrating both the projector and screen onto it. This single unit serves multiple functions: housing the projection source, providing the display surface, and enabling movement to different positions. This consolidation reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the projector and screen into a single integrated carrier unit. This combination simplifies the system architecture by reducing the number of separate components and their associated mounting, alignment, and control mechanisms, while still providing dynamic image capabilities.
4Adaptability or versatility
If trolleys with internal motors are used, then target rotation capability is provided, but mechanical complexity and wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical rotation system with an optical solution. Instead of physically rotating targets using motors and mechanical linkages, the system uses projectors to display different images on the screen, achieving target presentation capability without any rotating mechanical parts.
Solution Approach 2:
By using projected optical copies, the system eliminates the need for physical target rotation. Multiple target images can be stored digitally and displayed as needed, providing the same functional capability as rotation but without the mechanical complexity and associated wear.
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 cost-effective, space-efficient, and highly realistic training experience with dynamic image capabilities, improving shooter accuracy and reaction time through real-time image changes and integrated scoring, reducing the need for frequent target replacements and mechanical complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one projector may project one or more images upon at least some portion of the at least one screen
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of systems for improving shooting performance, as well as, carriers configured for that purpose, are disclosed and described herein. In some such embodiments, such systems may comprise: at least one projector, at least one screen, at least one carrier, and at least one pathway. The at least one projector may project one or more images upon at least some portion of the at least one screen. The at least one screen may receive and display the one or more images. The at least one carrier may house the at least one projector; and in some embodiments, may also house at least one screen mount for removably mounting the at least one screen. The at least one carrier may travel along the at least one pathway. A shooter may aim and shoot a firearm at the one or more images displayed upon the at least one screen.