Virtual Hunting Device Integrating Imaging Sensor with Firearm Trigger

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional hunting methods face restrictions due to declining animal populations and ethical concerns, necessitating alternative experiences that simulate the thrill of hunting without actual killing.

Innovation Solution

A virtual hunting device combining an imaging device with a firearm or imitation firearm, which captures or displays images, and allows for the superimposition of targets like bull's eyes, enabling a simulated hunting experience through image capture or video playback upon trigger activation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If traditional hunting methods are used, then the thrill of hunting is experienced, but animal populations are harmed and ethical concerns arise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanimal harmVSAvoidhunting experience
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual copy of the hunting experience through an imaging device that captures images of animals and displays them on a screen. This copy allows users to experience the thrill of hunting without actually harming animals, as the system reproduces the visual and experiential aspects of hunting through digital imaging rather than physical action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical system of actual firearm shooting with a digital imaging system. Instead of using a firearm to physically remove animals from their environment, the system uses a camera and display to create a virtual representation of the hunting experience, substituting physical harm with digital simulation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If stricter regulations are applied to protect animal populations, then animal welfare is improved, but the hunting experience is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanimal population protectionVSAvoidhunting activity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system creates a digital copy of the hunting experience that can be accessed and experienced without violating animal protection regulations. The imaging device captures and displays animal images, providing a substitute experience that respects legal and ethical constraints while maintaining the recreational aspect of hunting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The virtual hunting device serves multiple functions: it provides recreational hunting experience, educational value through image capture, and compliance with animal protection regulations. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to both the desire for hunting experience and the need for animal welfare protection.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If an imaging device is integrated with a firearm, then a virtual hunting experience is enabled, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevirtual hunting capabilityVSAvoidfirearm-integrated system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the imaging device with the firearm system, combining the camera, processing unit, and display into an integrated assembly that attaches to the firearm. This merging approach enables the virtual hunting capability while consolidating components to manage system complexity through unified design and integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS9694290B2Virtual hunting devices and uses thereof
Publication Date: 2017.07.04 VALDEZ RONNIE
  • US9694290B2 patent drawing
  • US9694290B2 patent drawing
  • US9694290B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present invention concern a virtual hunting apparatus that employs an imaging device mounted on top of the barrel of a simulated firearm such as a rifle or other toy. A cable can be used to connect the imaging device to the trigger of the simulated firearm. An imaging device can run a variety of applications and play videos. Pulling the trigger of the simulated firearm takes a picture of a target animal, records a video or plays a video of interest within the imaging device, without displacing a bullet or pellet to injure or kill the target animal.