Reactive Target System with Forward Barrier and Pivot Reset

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing shooting targets lack advanced mechanisms for automatic resetting and protection from projectile impacts, which can lead to instability and reduced service life.

Innovation Solution

A reactive target system comprising a target support frame, a target connecting mechanism, and a forward barrier, along with a target reset mechanism that allows the target device to pivot between raised and lowered positions, and a computer-readable storage medium for controlling the target system's operation, including a target control system that receives user commands to switch the target device between positions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a target device is made reactive and resettable, then productivity is improved through automatic resetting, but device complexity increases due to additional mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetarget resetting efficiencyVSAvoidtarget system structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The target device is divided into separate functional components: a target body portion, a connecting mechanism, and a reset mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling automatic resetting without requiring complete redesign of the entire target structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The target device incorporates dynamic elements including a pivot connection that allows the target to rotate between vertical and horizontal positions, and a reset mechanism with movable components that can shift between engaged and disengaged states to enable automatic resetting after being struck.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If a forward barrier is added to protect from projectile impacts, then reliability is improved by protecting the reset mechanism, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprotection from projectile impactVSAvoidtarget support system structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The forward barrier is positioned in advance of the reset mechanism to intercept projectiles before they can reach vulnerable components. This preliminary protective action prevents damage to the reset mechanism and connecting components, ensuring reliable operation without requiring complex protective enclosures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the target device can pivot between vertical and horizontal positions, then adaptability is improved for different shooting scenarios, but stability worsens due to moving parts

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetarget position flexibilityVSAvoidtarget device stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The pivot connection incorporates damping elements and friction controls that provide stability when the target is in either vertical or horizontal position. These cushioning features prevent unintended movement and ensure the target remains stable during shooting, while still allowing deliberate repositioning when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS9470482B2Reactive target system

Publication Date: 2016.10.18 HILL & MAC GUNWORKS LLC

AI summary

A target support system is used for supporting a target device for shooting practice. The target support system includes a target support frame, a target connecting mechanism, and a forward barrier. The target support frame is placed onto a target placement area. The target connecting mechanism is arranged on the target support frame and operatively supports a target device on the target support frame. The forward barrier protects the system from impact of a projectile on the system.