Reactive Firearm Target With Hinge Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional firearm training systems using static targets lack real-time feedback, requiring operators to physically move targets to analyze shot placement, which can lead to safety concerns and inefficient training.

Innovation Solution

A reactive firearm target system with a shoot-through, ricochet-free surface supported by a rigid structure and a hinge mechanism that swings upon projectile contact, providing instant visual feedback and incorporating hit detection sensors for enhanced training experience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If static targets are used for firearm training, then the training system is simple and safe, but the operator cannot obtain real-time feedback and must physically move the target to analyze shot placement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereal-time feedback capabilityVSAvoidtarget system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the static target into a reactive system that changes state upon projectile impact. The target surface is designed to swing or move when hit, providing immediate visual feedback to the operator about shot placement accuracy without requiring manual intervention to move or reposition the target.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by creating a target system that automatically responds to projectile impact with visible movement or change in state. This allows the operator to immediately see the result of their shot placement, enabling real-time correction and improvement of aiming skills without delay.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If static paper or cardboard targets are used, then the system is simple and inexpensive, but the operator must walk-back the target to closely analyze shot placement, causing safety concerns and training inefficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining efficiencyVSAvoidsafety risks from target handling
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by designing the target to automatically indicate hit locations through its own movement or visual change when struck by a projectile. This eliminates the need for operators to manually move or reposition targets for analysis, allowing them to remain at a safe distance while still obtaining detailed feedback on shot placement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical action of manually moving and repositioning targets with an automated mechanical response from the target itself. The target's built-in movement mechanism substitutes for the operator's manual handling, providing the same analytical capability without the safety risks associated with close-range target manipulation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If full metal jacketed ammunition is used at close distances, then the training is realistic and effective, but ricochet-free targets are required for safety, adding complexity to the target system

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety of training systemVSAvoidtarget structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the physical properties of the target surface to be reactive rather than static. The target is designed with specific material properties and structural characteristics that allow it to change state upon impact while maintaining safety against ricochets. The hinge mechanism and target surface combination create a system that absorbs impact energy safely while providing feedback.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 reactive target system offers real-time feedback and improved safety by preventing ricochets and allowing operators to analyze shot placement immediately, enhancing training effectiveness and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

when the shoot-through, ricochet-free surface is contacted by a firearm projectile

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectImpact force: Impact Force

Data Source

PatentEP4317906A1Reactive firearm target
Publication Date: 2024.02.07 GILMER ROBERT
  • EP4317906A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4317906A1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2C
  • EP4317906A1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B

AI summary

A reactive firearm target is provided. The reactive firearm target includes a shoot-through, ricochet-free surface, a rigid support having a first end coupled to a portion of the shoot-through, ricochet-free surface, and a hinge mechanism coupled to a second end of the rigid support, wherein the hinge mechanism is configured to swing from a first position to a second position when the shoot-through, ricochet-free surface is contacted by a firearm projectile.