Segmented Target Assembly with Compressible Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing targets for games involving projectiles like hockey pucks or balls lack durability and ease of replacement, making them inefficient for repeated use and effective practice sessions.
Innovation Solution
A target assembly comprising a frame with removable and replaceable impact-resistant yet compressible target elements, which can be securely attached to various locations and dislodged upon impact, allowing for multiple uses and easy replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional targets are used, then they can be positioned at various locations for practice, but they lack durability and are difficult to replace after impact
Solution Approach 1:
The target is divided into a frame assembly and multiple separate target elements. Each target element can be independently removed and replaced without affecting the frame or other target elements, enabling easy maintenance while maintaining overall target durability
Solution Approach 2:
The target elements are made from compressible materials that can deform upon impact and then return to their original shape. This parameter change (compressibility) allows the targets to withstand repeated impacts without permanent damage, improving durability while remaining replaceable if needed
2Strength
If targets are designed to be impact-resistant, then they can withstand repeated hits, but they become more expensive and less easy to replace
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the target into frame and replaceable elements, the system allows use of simple, inexpensive materials for individual target elements while maintaining overall impact resistance through the compressible nature of these elements and their ability to be replaced without complex manufacturing processes
Solution Approach 2:
The target elements are designed as simple, inexpensive components that can be easily replaced after impact. Rather than making the entire target expensive and durable, individual cheap elements are used that can be quickly swapped out, reducing overall manufacturing cost while maintaining functionality
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 solution provides a durable and cost-effective target system that allows for repeated use and easy maintenance, enhancing the effectiveness of practice sessions by ensuring consistent performance and safety.
Implementation Method 1
each target element may comprise an impact resistant, yet compressible material, so that it may withstand many such impacts
Data Source
AI summary
A target assembly comprising frame elements is disclosed, wherein each frame element defines an opening. Further, a target element may be positioned at least partially within each frame element. In one embodiment, each frame element is substantially the same shape, each is welded to adjacent, other frame elements, and the periphery of the frame assembly generally follows a triangular shape. A target assembly comprising a frame assembly is disclosed, wherein the frame assembly defines openings. Further, a target element may be positioned at least partially within each of the openings. In one embodiment, each of openings is substantially the same shape, the openings are arranged in a plurality of rows, and the number of openings per row increases in an arithmetic progression, and wherein the arithmetic progression begins with 1 and increases by 1 Various other articles, assemblies, and methods are also disclosed.