Projectile Target Hit Indicator with Independent Frame Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing target shooting systems face challenges in providing a reliable and cost-effective visual indication of a hit at long ranges, with existing solutions being complex, expensive, and prone to failure due to the integration of sensor units with metal targets that absorb kinetic energy.
Innovation Solution
A target system with an independent impact sensor attached to the frame, which senses bullet impacts and activates an indicator light, allowing for a non-metallic target material and remote indication, including adjustable lenses and radio signals for long-range visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a metal target with integrated sensor unit is used to detect bullet impact, then the target can provide visual indication of hit, but the sensor unit is damaged by kinetic energy from striking bullet
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the target into two separate components: a non-metallic target body and an independent sensor unit mounted on the frame. This segmentation prevents the sensor from directly absorbing bullet kinetic energy while maintaining its ability to detect impacts through vibrations transmitted through the frame.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame acts as an intermediary between the target and the sensor unit. It transmits impact vibrations from the target to the sensor without exposing the sensor directly to the full force of the striking bullet, thereby protecting the sensor while enabling detection.
2Reliability
If sensor unit is mounted on metal target, then hit detection is enabled, but the system becomes expensive and complex
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the sensor mounting from the target body, the system simplifies the overall design. The sensor unit can be a simple vibration sensor mounted on the frame rather than a complex integrated system, reducing both cost and complexity while maintaining hit detection capability.
3Measurement precision
If metal target is used at long range, then target can be struck by bullet, but sensor damage risk increases due to absorbed kinetic energy
Solution Approach 1:
The target body is made from inexpensive non-metallic material that can be easily replaced if damaged, while the expensive sensor unit remains protected on the frame. This allows the target to serve its purpose at long ranges without risking sensor damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame serves as a protective intermediary that isolates the sensor from direct bullet impact forces, enabling reliable long-range hit detection without increasing sensor damage risk.
4Ease of operation
If indicator light is integrated with target, then hit indication is provided, but the system requires complex wiring and power supply
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex wired electrical connections with wireless communication technology. The sensor unit transmits hit data wirelessly to a remote display device, eliminating the need for complex wiring, switches, and power supply systems integrated into the target.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of placing the indicator light directly on the target, the system creates a wireless copy or representation of the hit data on a remote display device. This allows visual feedback without the complexity of integrating electrical systems into the target structure.
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 and reliable visual indication of a hit from a distance, reducing the risk of sensor damage and enabling evaluation of shot groups without physical retrieval of the target.
Implementation Method 1
senses the vibration of the target when the target is hit by a bullet
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an improved target system for use by target shooters. The target system includes any target that is solid enough to transfer a portion of the impact to the frame supporting the target. An impact sensor that is independent from the target is attached to the frame supporting the target. When the target is hit by a bullet, the impact causes the impact sensor to light an indicator light to indicate that the target was hit. In some embodiments, the indicator light is housed in a housing that includes an adjustable lens to focus the light and concentrate its direction toward the shooter. In other embodiments, a remote indicator light is utilized and the impact sensor sends a radio signal to the indicator light to cause it light up when the target is impacted.