V-Shaped Target Apparatus With Integrated Balloon Cleats

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing target devices for shooting with projectiles lack innovative features that allow for the attachment of balloons, which could enhance engagement and functionality.

Innovation Solution

The development of improved firearm target apparatuses that can be attached to existing targets, featuring a base and V-shaped members with cleats and rings, allowing for the removably attachment of balloons.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing target devices are used without modifications, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the functionality is limited and lacks engaging features

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The target apparatus integrates multiple functions into a single device: it serves as both a shooting target and a balloon attachment structure. The V-shaped member with cleats and rings can both deflect projectiles and securely hold balloons, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall complexity while enhancing versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the target structure and balloon attachment mechanism into one unified apparatus. The V-shaped member serves dual purposes: providing structural support for the target and creating attachment points for balloons through integrated cleats and rings, thereby simplifying the overall device while adding engaging features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If balloons are attached to existing targets, then user engagement is enhanced, but the attachment reliability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser engagementVSAvoidattachment reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The V-shaped member is divided into distinct functional segments: the main structure for target functionality and separate attachment points (cleats and rings) for balloon mounting. This segmentation allows the balloon attachment mechanism to be optimized independently for reliability while maintaining the target's structural integrity and shooting functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cleats and rings serve as intermediary components between the V-shaped member and the balloons. These specialized attachment points provide a reliable connection mechanism that securely holds balloons while allowing for easy attachment and detachment, thus maintaining both reliability and user engagement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a V-shaped member with cleats and rings is added to existing targets, then balloon attachment capability is enabled, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveballoon attachment capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The V-shaped member is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the structural framework for the target, creates attachment points for balloons through integrated cleats and rings, and maintains the structural integrity needed for both shooting and balloon attachment. This multi-functionality adds balloon attachment capability without proportionally increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12339105B1Target apparatus and method
Publication Date: 2025.06.24 MAIORANO GIUSEPPE
  • US12339105B1 patent drawing
  • US12339105B1 patent drawing
  • US12339105B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A target apparatus including: a base; a V-shaped member having first and second ends, the second end connected to the base; a first cleat, configured to connect to one or more inflated balloons, fixed to the V-shaped member; wherein the V-shaped member includes first and second members; the first member having first and second edges; wherein the second member has a first and second edges; wherein the first edges of the first and second members are fixed together; wherein the second edges of the first and second members are separated by a gap; and wherein the first cleat is fixed to the V-shaped member so that at least part of the first cleat is between the first and second members. The target apparatus further includes a first ring fixed to the first V-shaped member so that at least part of the first ring is between the first and second members.