Remote Target Lifter Arm Mechanism for Shooting Range Reset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Resetting falling firearm targets in shooting ranges is a time-consuming and unsafe process, requiring manual intervention and range closure due to the need for physical access over long distances.
Innovation Solution
A remote-activated target lifter system that includes a projectile-resistant tubular housing, a target lifter arm, and an actuator, controlled by a wireless signal to lift reusable targets from a down position to an upright position, allowing for remote resetting of falling targets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual resetting of falling targets is used, then the target can be reset, but the process is time-consuming and unsafe requiring range closure and physical travel over long distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical resetting system with an automated electromechanical system. An actuator (electric motor or pneumatic cylinder) is mounted on the target base and automatically raises the target after being knocked down, eliminating the need for manual intervention and significantly improving both safety and speed of resetting
Solution Approach 2:
The target system performs its own resetting operation through the automated actuator mechanism. After a target is knocked down, the actuator automatically repositions it to the upright position without requiring external human intervention, enabling the target to service itself
2Ease of operation
If manual resetting of falling targets is used, then the target can be reset, but physical access over long distances (100 yards or more) is required
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical operation of physically traveling to and from the target is replaced by an automated electromechanical actuator system mounted on the target base, making the operation easier while adding controlled complexity to the device
3Productivity
If falling targets are used, then target acquisition and scoring are improved, but the targets require resetting before being shot again
Solution Approach 1:
The automated actuator enables continuous operation by immediately resetting the target after being knocked down, eliminating idle time between shots and maintaining continuous productive action in the shooting range
Solution Approach 2:
The target automatically resets itself through the actuator mechanism, eliminating the need for external intervention and enabling continuous productive operation without time loss
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
Enhances the speed and safety of resetting falling targets by enabling remote operation, reducing the time and effort required for manual intervention and minimizing the risk of accidents during the process.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator with an actuator housing and a ram actuatable between a retracted position and an extended position relative the actuator housing
Implementation Method 2
a target lifter arm rotatably connected to the tubular housing
Data Source
AI summary
A shooting target lifter includes a projectile-resistant tubular housing configured for coupling to a base of a falling shooting target including a reusable shooting target rotatably connected to the base. A target lifter arm is rotatably connected to the tubular housing, and an actuator is within the tubular housing with a first end pivotably mounted to the tubular housing and a second end pivotably mounted to the target lifter arm. A free end of the target lifter arm is configured to lift the reusable shooting target from the down position to the upright position when the ram is extended from the retracted position to the extended position. The shooting target lifter further includes a controller within the tubular housing configured to, in response to a wireless signal, output a control signal to extend the ram to reset the reusable shooting target from a down position to an upright position.