Shooting Target Hit Detection Using Conductive Ink Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing target shooting systems face challenges in accurately detecting projectile hits, especially at the edges of targets, where errors can occur due to the limitations of computer-based systems, and there is a need for enhanced visualization and feedback mechanisms to improve training and gaming experiences.
Innovation Solution
A shooting target assembly with conductive ink patterns of different electrical conductivities on a substrate, coupled with control circuitry that detects hits by analyzing changes in electrical parameters, and a system that uses augmented reality to overlay visual indications of hits on images, providing real-time feedback to users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single conductive ink pattern is used on the target, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision of hit detection is insufficient especially at edge regions
Solution Approach 1:
The target is divided into multiple sections with different conductive ink patterns (first pattern with first conductivity, second pattern with second conductivity). Each pattern is optimized for specific regions, allowing precise hit detection at edges while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
Different conductive ink patterns are applied to different sections of the target based on local requirements. Edge regions use patterns optimized for boundary detection, while central regions use patterns optimized for center hit detection, achieving high measurement precision throughout the entire target area.
2Measurement precision
If multiple conductive inks with different conductivities are used, then the hit detection accuracy is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes changes in electrical conductivity as a key parameter to differentiate between target sections. By controlling the conductivity of different ink patterns rather than requiring extremely precise geometric patterns, the system achieves high hit location accuracy while reducing the stringency of manufacturing precision requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The target employs composite conductive ink structures with different materials or compositions to achieve distinct conductivity levels. This allows the system to encode spatial information through material properties rather than relying solely on precise geometric patterning, thereby improving measurement precision without proportionally increasing manufacturing difficulty.
3Extent of automation
If computer-based hit detection is used, then the automation is improved, but the reliability of hit detection at target edges deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces computer vision-based hit detection with an electrical field-based detection system using conductive ink patterns. When a projectile hits the target, it creates an electrical signal that travels through the conductive patterns to detection circuits, providing reliable automated detection at edges where optical systems fail.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive ink patterns serve as intermediaries between the physical impact and the electronic detection system. The patterns translate mechanical impact into electrical signals that can be reliably processed, bridging the gap between physical hit events and automated detection with high reliability at all target regions including edges.
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 enhances the accuracy of hit detection and provides users with a rich, interactive experience through real-time visual and auditory feedback, improving training and gaming by accurately determining hit locations and enabling multi-sensory engagement.
Implementation Method 1
The first pattern is disposed on a first section of the substrate and includes a first conductive ink having a first electrical conductivity. The second pattern is disposed on a second section of the substrate and includes a second conductive ink having a second electrical conductivity
Implementation Method 2
control circuitry, which is electrically coupled to at least one of the first and second sections and is configured to detect whether a physical hit of a projectile occurred at the first section or the second section
Data Source
AI summary
A shooting target assembly includes a substrate and first and second patterns. The first pattern is disposed on a first section of the substrate and includes a first conductive ink having a first electrical conductivity. The second pattern is disposed on a second section of the substrate and includes a second conductive ink having a second electrical conductivity, different from the first electrical conductivity.