Target Carrier Strike Detection and Automated Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current firearm shooting range target systems are costly to maintain, difficult to determine if a target has been hit, and lack real-time feedback for shooters, with manual inspection methods being time-consuming and inaccurate, and there is a need for automated protection of target carriers from damage.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a target carrier with sensors and a controller that detects strikes, communicates with a camera system for real-time visual feedback, and implements corrective measures such as moving the target to a safe position or alerting operators, using sensors like accelerometers and piezo electric sensors to differentiate between bullet strikes and other forces, and can operate independently or connected to a range server.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual inspection methods are used to detect hits on target carriers, then the system structure remains simple, but the detection accuracy and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with automated sensor systems including accelerometers, piezoelectric sensors, and camera systems that electronically detect and record bullet strikes on target carriers, eliminating the need for manual inspection while significantly improving detection accuracy and providing permanent strike records
Solution Approach 2:
The target carrier system performs self-detection and self-recording of strikes through integrated sensors and cameras, automatically logging strike locations and characteristics without requiring external manual inspection, thereby improving efficiency while maintaining operational simplicity
2Reliability
If target carriers are left unprotected, then the device complexity remains low, but the reliability and durability deteriorate due to multiple hits
Solution Approach 1:
The system proactively detects strikes before they cause cumulative damage by using sensors to monitor the target carrier in real-time, allowing operators to take protective action or replace the carrier before multiple hits compromise its structural integrity or safety
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensor and camera systems provide continuous feedback on the target carrier's condition and strike history, enabling real-time monitoring and automated responses that protect the carrier from further damage while maintaining system reliability
3Loss of information
If real-time visual feedback systems are added, then the information availability to shooters improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses camera systems as intermediaries to capture strike information and transmits it through communication networks to shooters' devices, providing real-time visual feedback without requiring complex direct line-of-sight systems, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining information availability
4Productivity
If automated strike detection systems are implemented, then the productivity and efficiency improve, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the target carrier system into modular segments with integrated sensors and cameras that can be manufactured independently and assembled, allowing for cost-effective production while maintaining the advanced detection capabilities that improve range operation efficiency
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 system provides accurate, real-time detection of hits to target carriers, reduces maintenance needs, and automatically protects the targets from further damage, enhancing shooter training by offering immediate feedback and reducing manual inspection time.
Implementation Method 1
using sensors like accelerometers and piezo electric sensors to differentiate between bullet strikes and other forces
Implementation Method 2
using sensors like accelerometers and piezo electric sensors to differentiate between bullet strikes and other forces
Implementation Method 3
A piece of rubber or other impact-absorbing material may be placed between the camera and the steel plate to absorb impacts and dampen vibrational energy
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for detecting hits to a target carrier and taking corrective measures and/or for detecting hits to a target carried by the target carrier may include one or more sensors or cameras disposed in conjunction with the target carrier. The target carrier may be provided with a processor in communication with a sensor, and the processor may also be in communication with a motor and/or actuator of the target carrier. The sensor may be able to sense hits to the target carrier and send a strike signal to the processor in response to such hits. The processor may then take corrective action, such as causing the target carrier to return to a home position, cause the target actuator to turn or edge the target, and/or send a signal to the range operators that the target carrier has been hit. The target carrier may also be provided with a camera for visualizing a target carried by the target carrier.