Thermal Target Heating Structure for Durable IR Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermal targets are not durable enough to withstand multiple projectile impacts and fail to consistently mimic the thermal properties of an object, providing limited visibility to thermal optics.
Innovation Solution
A thermal target apparatus with an electrically conductive material on its surface, powered by a controller and power source to generate heat visible to thermal optics, using conductive strips and a cover layer for durability and uniform heat distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If rubber material is used to retain frictional heat from projectile impacts, then thermal visibility is achieved at impact locations, but the target is not durable enough to withstand large quantities of sustained impacts from multiple projectiles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite structure combining a resilient base material (such as rubber or foam) with a durable outer layer (such as Kevlar or other ballistic-resistant material). This composite construction allows the target to withstand multiple projectile impacts while maintaining thermal visibility through the resilient material's frictional heating properties.
2Temperature
If thermal-based chemical reactions or heat-reflecting/absorbing materials are used, then thermal visibility is achieved, but the target may require appropriate external and/or environmental conditions such as an external heat source or light source
Solution Approach 1:
The target uses the kinetic energy of incoming projectiles themselves to generate the thermal signature. The resilient material converts the mechanical energy of impact into heat through friction and deformation, eliminating the need for external heat sources or light sources. The target serves itself by using the impact energy to create the thermal visibility effect.
3Temperature
If known prior art targets are used, then thermal visibility is provided after being hit by projectiles, but thermal visibility is limited to specific locations rather than the entire target and disappears as frictional heat dissipates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a power source and heating element that can dynamically maintain or enhance the thermal signature of the target. After a projectile impact, the system can actively heat the target material to sustain thermal visibility for a longer duration, rather than relying solely on the temporary frictional heat from the impact.
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 apparatus provides consistent thermal visibility and durability, mimicking object heat signatures while withstanding multiple impacts, offering improved training scenarios for thermal optics users.
Implementation Method 1
the electrical energy in the target material is converted into heat which creates a thermal target that is visible to thermal optics
Data Source
AI summary
A thermal target apparatus is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the apparatus provides at least one target body. An electrically conductive target material is positioned on a front surface of the target body. At least one length of electrically conductive delivery material is also positioned on the front surface of the target body in contact with the target material, the delivery material configured for delivering an electrical current to the target material. A power source is in electrical communication with the delivery material for selectively providing an electrical current thereto which, in turn, delivers the electrical current to the target material. A controller is in electrical communication with the power source for selectively adjusting the electrical current produced by the power source. During use, the electrical energy in the target material is converted into heat which creates a thermal target that is visible to thermal optics.