Tool-less Hinge Target System for Rapid Firearm Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing target systems for firearms training are cumbersome to change and require tools, limiting the ability to customize training scenarios quickly, which is essential for law enforcement and military personnel to maintain proficiency in making split-second decisions under varying conditions.
Innovation Solution
A target system featuring a blocking plate with movable targets attached via a tool-less hinge mechanism, allowing for rapid change and customization of target plates without the need for tools, providing immediate visual feedback on hit locations and accommodating different projectile types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional target systems are used, then targets can be changed to provide customization of training scenarios, but the process is time consuming and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The target system is divided into separate modular components: a blocking plate with openings and interchangeable target elements. Each target can be independently attached or removed from the blocking plate, allowing rapid reconfiguration without tools. The hinge mechanism further segments the target into a mounting interface and the visible target portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The target incorporates a hinge mechanism that allows dynamic movement between a first position (where the target is visible through the opening) and a second position (where the target is obscured). This dynamic positioning provides immediate visual feedback when the target is struck, eliminating the need for manual inspection or tool-assisted target changes.
2Loss of information
If targets are made visible immediately after being hit, then shooters receive immediate feedback on shot accuracy, but the target mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism enables the target to dynamically change its position in response to being struck. When a projectile hits the target, the force causes the target to pivot from the first position to the second position, automatically providing visual confirmation of the hit without requiring additional sensors, electronics, or complex feedback systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The target system is self-indicating through its mechanical design. The hinge mechanism automatically responds to being struck by changing position, providing its own visual feedback without requiring external power sources, electronic components, or manual intervention to indicate whether a shot was successful.
3Loss of information
If targets are made movable to indicate hits, then visual feedback is provided, but the target may not return to original position reliably
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism separates the target into a fixed mounting interface (attached to the blocking plate) and a movable target portion. This segmentation ensures that while the target can move to indicate a hit, it remains securely attached to the blocking plate through the hinge connection, maintaining consistent positioning for subsequent shots.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using springs or arms to actively return the target to its original position, the system inverts the approach by allowing gravity and the hinge mechanism itself to control the target's movement. The target naturally returns to its starting position after being struck, with the hinge providing the restoring mechanism rather than requiring additional active return systems.
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 may include a hinge mechanism which limits the range of movement of the target after it has been struck by a projectile. The hinge mechanism may also provide for tool less attachment and removal of the targets from the hinge mechanism.