Slotted Bracket Target Attachment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing target systems for firearms training face issues with durability, ease of replacement, bullet deflection, and compatibility with standard target sizes, particularly for law enforcement and military training, where targets need to simulate real-life scenarios and adapt to different situations efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A target system featuring a blocking plate with slotted brackets that allow targets to swing upon impact, providing immediate visual feedback and easy attachment/removal without tools, along with adjustable opening sizes and target materials for varying calibers, ensuring effective bullet deflection and easy replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hinge-and-pin mechanism is used to attach the target to the blocking plate, then the target can be easily attached and removed without tools, but the pin may become bent over time, preventing easy removal and the target may shimmy and fall off during rapid firing
Solution Approach 1:
The target attachment system is divided into separate functional components: a blocking plate with a slot, a target with a tab, and a retaining mechanism. This segmentation allows the tab to slide through the slot for easy attachment while the retaining mechanism (such as a spring-loaded detent or over-center clamp) provides secure retention during firing, and can be manually released for removal without tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism incorporates dynamic elements such as springs or over-center linkages that automatically engage to secure the target during rapid firing, then can be easily disengaged by manual pressure. This allows the system to transition from a static, fragile pin connection to a dynamic, reliable retention system that adapts to the operational state.
2Ease of manufacture
If the target is made of lightweight material like cardboard, then it is easier to replace, but it does not last long and bullets travel through it readily
Solution Approach 1:
The target system uses composite construction, combining a rigid outer shell (such as plastic, metal, or composite material) with an inner core or backing. This composite structure provides the durability needed to withstand repeated bullet impacts and contain bullets, while maintaining a weight that allows easy replacement. The rigid exterior protects the internal structure and provides a smooth surface for bullet deflection.
Solution Approach 2:
The target material parameters are optimized to balance durability and replaceability. By selecting materials with appropriate density, strength, and weight characteristics, the target can withstand the mechanical stresses of rapid firing while remaining light enough for easy handling and replacement. The material parameters are specifically chosen to prevent bullet penetration while allowing the target to be moved and replaced without excessive effort.
3Strength
If the target is made of metal, then it can withstand bullet impacts better, but it becomes unwieldy and difficult to replace
Solution Approach 1:
The target material parameters are optimized to balance durability and replaceability. By selecting materials with appropriate density, strength, and weight characteristics, the target can withstand the mechanical stresses of rapid firing while remaining light enough for easy handling and replacement. The material parameters are specifically chosen to prevent bullet penetration while allowing the target to be moved and replaced without excessive effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The target attachment system is divided into separate functional components: a blocking plate with a slot, a target with a tab, and a retaining mechanism. This segmentation allows the tab to slide through the slot for easy attachment while the retaining mechanism (such as a spring-loaded detent or over-center clamp) provides secure retention during firing, and can be manually released for removal without tools.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the target remains upright after being hit, then it simulates real-life scenarios better, but it may not provide immediate visual feedback that the target has been hit
Solution Approach 1:
The target incorporates visual indicators that change state upon being hit, such as color-changing materials, illuminated sections, or contrasting color zones. When a bullet strikes the target, the impact area changes color or becomes visually distinct, providing immediate feedback to the shooter while the target remains upright to maintain realistic training scenarios. This allows officers to confirm shot accuracy without the target falling.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary visual indication system is introduced between the target structure and the shooter's observation. This could be a separate indicator layer, illuminated panel, or visual marker that responds to bullet impact and provides feedback independently of the target's physical position. The intermediary allows the target to remain upright for realism while still conveying hit information to the shooter.
Data Source
AI summary
A target system includes a blocking plate with one or more openings through which bullets are fired and one or more targets for being struck by the bullets disposed behind the blocking plate and generally in line with the one or more openings. The target system includes a slotted bracket which limits the range of movement of the target after it has been struck by a projectile. The slotted bracket also provides for tool-less attachment and removal of the targets from the blocking plate.