Self-Sealing Archery Target Using Composite Foam and Polyester
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing archery and firearm targets, typically made of paper or foam materials, are not reusable and deteriorate quickly after limited use, leading to frequent replacement and waste.
Innovation Solution
A self-sealing target constructed from small cell cellular plastic or rubber, such as open cell styrene butadiene, with an outer layer of soft polyester or neoprene, utilizing dye sublimation for vibrant image adherence and durability, allowing for over 1000 uses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If paper or foam block targets are used, then the target can be initially formed and used, but the target deteriorates after limited use and cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The target combines foam block material with a polyester fabric layer to create a composite structure. The foam provides self-sealing capability while the polyester layer provides durability and image retention, allowing the target to withstand multiple arrow impacts without deteriorating.
Solution Approach 2:
A polyester fabric layer is applied over the foam block surface to create a flexible protective shell. This thin film structure allows the target to maintain its integrity after repeated impacts while providing a stable surface for image application.
2Strength
If targets are made from foam beads or soft foam materials, then the target can capture and retain the arrow, but the target face deteriorates after limited hits
Solution Approach 1:
The foam block interior provides arrow retention through its cellular structure, while the polyester fabric exterior layer protects the target face from deterioration. This composite approach allows each material to perform its optimal function.
Solution Approach 2:
The polyester fabric acts as a protective shell over the foam block, preventing the target face from deteriorating while allowing the foam beneath to continue capturing and retaining arrows effectively.
3Ease of manufacture
If paint or inks are disposed directly on the foam block face, then the target can be formed, but the target image deteriorates after use
Solution Approach 1:
The polyester fabric layer serves as a stable substrate for image application. Images can be printed or applied to this durable fabric surface, which resists deterioration from arrow impacts and environmental exposure, unlike direct foam block painting.
Solution Approach 2:
The polyester layer provides a superior surface for image application compared to bare foam. The fabric's stability and durability ensure that images remain intact and vibrant throughout the target's extended service life.
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 target achieves extended lifespan by self-sealing and maintaining image vibrancy through multiple uses, outlasting traditional targets and reducing waste.
Implementation Method 1
constructed of a small cell cellular plastic or rubber material such as open cell styrene butadiene and with an outer layer of soft polyester or neoprene therefore is sufficiently self sealing
Implementation Method 2
The target face is formed on the polyester or neoprene layer by a process known as dye sublimation which permits vibrant colors and adherence through multiple uses of the target
Data Source
AI summary
A target for use as an archery or firearm target constructed of a material which provides self-sealing as the target is being used to thereby make the target capable of repeated use.