Polyurethane Shooting Target with Self-Healing and Adjustable Post
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current targets used in shooting ranges, such as those made of wood, paper, foam, and most plastics, are not durable enough to withstand repeated use and fail quickly due to the destructive nature of firearm rounds, lacking the realism and durability needed for effective training and recreational shooting.
Innovation Solution
A target body made of polyurethane with a durometer of 5 to 45 Shore A, which is durable enough to withstand multiple shots from various firearms, combined with a post assembly system that allows for height adjustment and movement, and optionally includes wheels and a motor for easy positioning, providing a realistic animal-shaped target that can self-heal and absorb bullets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional materials like wood, paper, foam, and plastics are used for targets, then the targets can be manufactured easily and at low cost, but they fail quickly when repeatedly fired at due to the destructive nature of firearm rounds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by selecting polyurethane with specific durometer ranges (5-45 Shore A) to achieve optimal balance between durability and projectile absorption. This material parameter selection enables the target to withstand repeated firearm rounds while maintaining structural integrity and realistic deformation characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite material construction by combining polyurethane foam core with outer layers of different materials (fabric, vinyl, or leather) to create a multi-layer target structure. This composite approach provides both durability against repeated firing and realistic visual/appearance properties that mimic animal targets.
2Adaptability or versatility
If targets are made to mimic live animals for realistic training experience, then the training effectiveness is improved, but the targets fail after very short period of use due to destructive firing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes material parameters by using polyurethane with durometer of 5-45 Shore A, which provides both realistic soft-target characteristics and enhanced durability. This parameter optimization allows the target to mimic live animal properties while withstanding repeated firearm rounds.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structure with polyurethane core and protective outer layers (fabric, vinyl, or leather) to achieve both realism and durability. The outer layers provide realistic appearance and texture similar to animal targets, while the polyurethane core ensures longevity against destructive firing.
3Reliability
If arrows are embedded in the target body for self-sealing function, then the target can be reused multiple times, but the target body becomes filled with arrows and requires removal that could damage the target
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from traditional self-sealing foams to polyurethane with durometer 5-45 Shore A, which provides controlled penetration and recovery characteristics. This parameter selection allows arrows to be embedded for self-sealing while enabling easy removal without target damage, and the material can recover its shape after arrow removal.
Data Source
AI summary
Long-lasting targets that can be repeatedly used (e.g., shot with a firearm) are disclosed. In some embodiments, the target includes a base that optionally has wheels, at least one post assembly comprising a bottom end connected to the base and a top end, and a target body connected to the at least one post assembly. Optionally, the target body is comprised of a polyurethane. Optionally, the target includes two post assemblies and the target has an expanded position for use and a collapsed position for storage. Methods of preparing targets using a mold are also described herein.