Target Retrieval System Using Closed Loop Cable and Pulley Stanchions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing archery practice systems lack the ability for hunters to selectively position and control targets, retrieve arrows, and inspect results without leaving the shooting area, often requiring external structures and continuous target movement.
Innovation Solution
A target retrieval system comprising a closed loop of cable with a drive pulley and support stations, allowing the hunter to position, shoot at, retrieve, and reposition targets within the shooting area, using a series of pulley stanchions and tension stations to maintain target movement and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a target retrieval system uses a closed loop cable with drive pulley and support stations, then the hunter can selectively position and control targets at various distances without leaving the shooting area, but the device complexity increases due to multiple pulley stanchions and tension stations
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the target retrieval mechanism into multiple functional segments: drive pulley for movement, idler pulleys for cable direction, and tension stations for cable tension control. Each segment performs a specific function, allowing the complex overall system to be managed through modular, independently adjustable components.
Solution Approach 2:
The closed loop cable system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it positions the target at various distances, retrieves the target after shooting, and maintains cable tension throughout the system. The same cable loop and pulley assembly handle both target deployment and retrieval operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the target moves continuously or automatically as in prior art, then the system can simulate animal movement, but the hunter cannot control the movement and location of the target at all times
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static target positioning to dynamic, manually-controlled movement. The drive pulley can be operated to move the target along the cable loop, allowing the hunter to adjust target position and simulate movement patterns as needed, rather than using fixed or purely automatic positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The closed loop cable acts as an intermediary mechanism between the hunter's manual operation and the target positioning. By pulling or releasing the cable through the pulley system, the hunter indirectly controls target location and movement without directly handling the target itself.
3Ease of manufacture
If external structures like trees or buildings are used to support the pulley system, then the setup requires fewer portable components, but the system cannot be easily transported or set up at different locations
Solution Approach 1:
The pulley stanchions are designed as self-contained, portable structures that do not require external trees or buildings for support. Each stanchion independently supports the pulleys and cable system, allowing the entire archery range to be set up in open areas without relying on pre-existing structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from using vertical external structures (trees) to using portable, freestanding stanchions that create their own support dimension. This allows the archery range to be established in previously unusable locations without depending on the third dimension of existing vertical structures.
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
Enables hunters to practice shooting at varying distances, retrieve arrows, and inspect targets without external structures, providing a flexible and controlled practice environment.
Implementation Method 1
a drive pulley for moving the target to a desired location away from a shooting stand
Implementation Method 2
a series of pulley stanchions and tension stations to maintain target movement and stability
Data Source
AI summary
A practice ground for a bow and arrow hunter which allows the hunter selectively to position the target at various locations from a shooting area, to shoot arrows thereat, to retrieve the targets to ascertain the results, and to retrieve the arrows in the target, all without leaving the shooting area. The practice ground has a stand built into a tree simulating a field-type shooting area, a target, a target supporting tow line, and a plurality of stanchions with pulleys supporting and guiding the tow line. The tree stand includes a manual drive mechanism for moving the target to and from the hunter.