U.S. patent application number 11/853763 was filed with the patent office on 2008-03-13 for firearm target assemblies, target systems, and methods for manufacturing firearm targets.
This patent application is currently assigned to Battenfeld Technologies, Inc. Invention is credited to Russell A. Potterfield.
Application Number | 20080061509 11/853763 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39168772 |
Filed Date | 2008-03-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080061509 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Potterfield; Russell A. |
March 13, 2008 |
FIREARM TARGET ASSEMBLIES, TARGET SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR
MANUFACTURING FIREARM TARGETS
Abstract
Firearm target assemblies and associated systems and methods are
disclosed herein. In one embodiment, target assemblies are
configured for accurately predicting projectile impact points for
determining shooting accuracy and consistency. In another
embodiment, a target system includes a target assembly having a
substrate and a print layer. The substrate may have a low shearing
response such that a projectile having a first major
cross-sectional dimension transverse to a projectile path forms a
hole in the substrate at an impact point in the projectile path.
The hole may have an aperture with a second major cross-sectional
dimension transverse to the projectile path, wherein the second
dimension is approximately the same as the first dimension. The
print layer may be at a first side of the substrate and may at
least partially define a target image.
Inventors: |
Potterfield; Russell A.;
(Columbia, MO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PERKINS COIE LLP;PATENT-SEA
P.O. BOX 1247
SEATTLE
WA
98111-1247
US
|
Assignee: |
Battenfeld Technologies,
Inc
Columbia
MO
|
Family ID: |
39168772 |
Appl. No.: |
11/853763 |
Filed: |
September 11, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60843870 |
Sep 11, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
273/403 ;
273/408; 273/409; 283/67 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41J 1/01 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
273/403 ;
273/408; 273/409; 283/067 |
International
Class: |
F41J 5/00 20060101
F41J005/00 |
Claims
1. A target system, the system comprising: a target assembly, the
target assembly including a substrate having a low shearing
response such that a projectile having a first major
cross-sectional dimension transverse to a projectile path forms a
hole in the substrate at an impact point in the projectile path,
the hole having an aperture with a second major cross-sectional
dimension transverse to the projectile path, wherein the second
dimension is approximately the same as the first dimension; and a
print layer at a first side of the substrate, the print layer at
least partially defining a target image.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein the substrate includes a synthetic
polymer configured to maintain target integrity in a region
proximal to the hole.
3. The system of claim 1 wherein the substrate includes a coating
on one or more surfaces, the coating having a synthetic polymer
configured to maintain target integrity in a region proximal to the
hole.
4. The system of claim 3 wherein the coating includes
polyurethane.
5. The system of claim 1 wherein the substrate includes an organic
material and a non-organic material, the non-organic material
positioned to at least partially coat the organic material such
that a shearing response of the organic material is reduced to the
low shearing response.
6. The system of claim 1 wherein the target assembly has a
thickness of approximately 6 mil to approximately 12 mil.
7. The system of claim 1 wherein the substrate includes a layer of
polypropylene.
8. The system of claim 1 wherein the substrate includes a layer of
polyvinyl chloride.
9. The system of claim 1 wherein the substrate includes a plurality
of laminated layers.
10. The system of claim 1 wherein the substrate includes a layer of
polyester film.
11. The system of claim 1 wherein the print layer includes an ink
layer disposed directly on the substrate.
12. The system of claim 1 wherein the print layer includes a
separate print layer attached to the substrate with an
adhesive.
13. The system of claim 1, further comprising a support member
coupled to an edge of the substrate and configured to increase
rigidity of the edge.
14. The system of claim 1 wherein the substrate includes an edge
region having a pre-punched hole, the pre-punched hole configured
to releaseably receive a fastener for retaining the target assembly
in a protective covering.
15. The system of claim 1 wherein at least one of the substrate and
the print layer includes a writeable surface.
16. The system of claim 1 wherein the target assembly is
water-resistant.
17. The system of claim 1 wherein the first side has a first color
and the print layer includes a plurality of ink layers having a
second color different from the first color and configured to at
least partially overlay the first color.
18. The system of claim 17 wherein the plurality of ink layers are
printed with a double bumping printing process.
19. The system of claim 1 wherein the target image includes
concentric circles.
20. The system of claim 1, further comprising a data collection
guide to assist record keeping.
21. A target system, the system comprising: a plurality of firearm
targets, the individual firearm targets including a substrate
having a first side and a second side facing opposite from the
first side, wherein the substrate includes a synthetic polymer
layer, and wherein the synthetic polymer layer prevents enlargement
of a through-substrate aperture formed by a projectile traveling
along a projectile path; and a print layer positioned at least at
the first side, the print layer at least partially defining a
target image.
22. The system of claim 21 wherein the individual firearm targets
include a pre-punched hole along a first edge, and wherein the
system further includes a protective covering having a fastener for
releaseably engaging the pre-punched holes of the firearm
targets.
23. The system of claim 21 wherein the synthetic polymer layer
includes a synthetic polymer coating applied to an organic
layer.
24. The system of claim 21 wherein the synthetic polymer layer
includes a thermoplastic polymer.
25. A method for manufacturing a firearm target assembly, the
method comprising: forming a substrate having at least a synthetic
polymer layer and a first color, wherein the synthetic polymer
layer prevents enlargement of a through-substrate aperture formed
by a projectile traveling along a projectile path; and applying a
print layer on the substrate to at least partially define a target
image, wherein the print layer includes a second color different
from the first color.
26. The method of claim 25 wherein forming a substrate includes
applying a coating to one or more surfaces of a core material, the
coating having one or more synthetic polymers configured to
maintain target integrity in a region proximal to the hole.
27. The method of claim 26 wherein: forming a substrate includes
providing a paper substrate and applying the coating to one or more
surfaces of the paper substrate; and applying a print layer on the
substrate includes forming a print layer on the paper substrate
before applying the coating, and wherein the coating is at least
partially transparent.
28. The method of claim 25 wherein the projectile includes a first
major cross-sectional dimension transverse to the projectile path
and the through-substrate aperture includes a second major
cross-sectional dimension transverse to the projectile path, and
wherein the second major cross-sectional dimension is generally the
same as the first major cross-sectional dimension.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/843,870, filed Sep. 11, 2006, which is entitled
"TARGETS," and incorporated by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure is directed generally to firearm
target assemblies, firearm target systems and methods for
manufacturing firearm targets. More specifically, the present
disclosure is directed to target assemblies configured for
accurately determining projectile points of impact.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Marksmen use firearms in a variety of professional (e.g.,
the military, law enforcement) and recreational pursuits (e.g.,
game hunting, sport shooting). Both professional and recreational
shooters use firearm targets, for example at a firing range, to
improve and practice their marksmanship skills as well as to assess
firearm and ammunition accuracy at varying distances and under
different environmental conditions. There is great variety in
several aspects of ammunition (e.g., cartridge length, diameter,
powder content, primer content, overall length, etc.). Each of
these aspects can affect the accuracy and control the marksman has
over his or her shot placement. Furthermore, desirable
characteristics for a bullet flight path can differ depending on
the firearm used, the number of rounds fired, the distance of the
intended target, etc.
[0004] In many instances, marksmen may hand-load their own
ammunition, producing dozens of different cartridges, varying in a
variety of aspects (e.g., bullet weight/shape/size, powder
composition, primer composition, cartridge length, and/or overall
length). Whether using pre-loaded ammunition or hand-loaded
cartridges, marksmen may test the accuracy and/or other shooting
characteristics of several different ammunition cartridges using
targets. Marksman may want to track the differences between the
cartridges and their firing accuracy during target shooting
sessions. In determining shooting accuracy and shot placement
reproducibility, a plurality of rounds will be fired at a single
target and the resultant impact points (e.g., bullet holes) can be
measured as a group, with a group measurement being the distance
between the two furthest holes. Factors such as target distance,
experience level of the marksman, weather conditions, and equipment
accuracy. affect shot placement and group measurements. In
favorable conditions, the differences between consecutive group
sizes can be minute, while measurement accuracy may need to be
precise. Accordingly, targets and firearm target systems are
important elements in tracking, practicing, and recording equipment
accuracy and other marksman-related skills.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] In the drawings, identical reference numbers identify
similar elements or acts. The sizes and relative positions of
elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For
example, the shapes of various elements and angles are not drawn to
scale, and some of these elements are arbitrarily enlarged and
positioned to improve drawing legibility. Further, the particular
shapes of the elements as drawn are not intended to convey any
information regarding the actual shape of the particular elements,
and have been solely selected for ease of recognition in the
drawings.
[0006] FIG. 1A is a front view illustration of a target assembly in
accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0007] FIG. 1B is a front view illustration of the target assembly
of FIG. 1A having a plurality of projectile holes in accordance
with an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0008] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view illustration of a target
assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0009] FIGS. 3A-3C are cross-sectional views along line 3-3 in FIG.
1A of embodiments of the target assembly in accordance with the
disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view illustration of a plurality
of fabricated target assemblies in accordance with an embodiment of
the disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view illustration of a firearm
target system in accordance with an embodiment of the
disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method for
manufacturing a firearm target assembly in accordance with an
embodiment of the disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
A. Overview
[0013] The following disclosure describes several embodiments of
firearm target assemblies and associated systems and methods. One
aspect of the disclosure is directed to target assemblies
configured for accurately predicting projectile impact points for
determining shooting accuracy and consistency.
[0014] In one embodiment, a target system includes a target
assembly having a substrate and a print layer. The substrate may
have a low shearing response such that a projectile having a first
major cross-sectional dimension transverse to a projectile path
forms a hole in the substrate at an impact point in the projectile
path. The hole may have an aperture with a second major
cross-sectional dimension transverse to the projectile path,
wherein the second dimension is approximately the same as the first
dimension. The print layer may be at a first side of the substrate
and may at least partially define a target image.
[0015] In another embodiment, a target system may include a
plurality of firearm targets, wherein the individual firearm
targets include a substrate having a first side and a second side
opposite the first side. The substrate may also include a synthetic
polymer layer. The synthetic polymer layer may prevent enlargement
of a through-substrate aperture formed by a projectile traveling
along a projectile path. The individual firearm targets may further
include a print layer positioned at least at the first side. The
print layer may at least partially define a target image.
[0016] Another aspect of the invention is directed to a method for
manufacturing a firearm target assembly. The method may include
forming a substrate having at least a synthetic polymer layer. The
synthetic polymer layer may prevent enlargement of a
through-substrate aperture formed by a projectile traveling along a
projectile path. The substrate may also have a first color. The
method may also include applying a print layer on the substrate to
at least partially define a target image. The print layer may
include a second color different from the first color.
[0017] Specific details of several embodiments of the disclosure
are described below with reference to firearm targets and target
assemblies. Several details describing well-known structures or
processes often associated with targets and manufacturing of
targets are not set forth in the following description for purposes
of brevity and clarity. Also, several other embodiments of the
disclosure may have different configurations, components, or
procedures than those described in this section. A person of
ordinary skill in the art, therefore, will accordingly understand
that the disclosure may include other embodiments with additional
features and characteristics, or the disclosure may include other
embodiments without several of the features and characteristics
shown and described below with reference to FIGS. 1A-6.
[0018] Where the context permits, singular or plural terms may also
include the plural or singular term, respectively. Moreover, unless
the word "or" is expressly limited to mean only a single item
exclusive from other items in reference to a list of at least two
items, then the use of "or" in such a list is to be interpreted as
including (a) any single item in the list, (b) all of the items in
the list, or (c) any combination of the items in the list.
Additionally, the term "comprising" is used throughout to mean
including at least the recited feature(s) such that any greater
number of the same features and/or other types of features and
components are not precluded.
B. Embodiments of Firearm Target Assemblies and Systems
[0019] FIG. 1A is a front view illustration of a target assembly
100 for monitoring shot placement accuracy and consistency in
accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The target
assembly 100 includes a substrate 110 and a print layer 112. The
target assembly 100 may have the print layer 112 (e.g., an ink
layer, a laser-printed surface, a painted surface, a printed
photographic image, etc.) covering or at least proximal to the
substrate 110 and facing in a direction generally opposite from the
substrate 110 and visible by a shooter (not shown). The print layer
112 may at least partially define a target image 120. The print
layer 112 may also at least partially define additional information
related to the target assembly 100, such as a company name and
contact information 130 and product information and/or a logo 132.
Furthermore, the print layer 112 may include a data collection
guide 140 for assisting record keeping. In one embodiment the print
layer 112 may overlay portions of the substrate 110 such that a
substrate color (e.g., white) and a contrasting print color (e.g.,
black) together at least partially define the target image 120.
[0020] As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the target image 120 may include
one or more intended points of impact 121a and 121b. The target
assembly 100 illustrates two independent points of impact 121a and
121b; however, in other embodiments, the target image 120 may
include only a single intended point of impact or more than two
intended points of impact. In the example illustrated in FIG. 1A,
the target image 120 includes a plurality of concentric circles
122. The concentric circles 122 may by oriented to form one or more
"bull's-eyes" 124a and 124b that defines the one or more intended
points of impact 121a and 121b. The bull's-eyes 124a and 124b may
include cross-hair lines 126. In other embodiments, the target
image 120 may not include concentric circles 122, one or more
bull's-eyes 124a and 124b, and/or cross-hair lines 126. One of
ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the target image 120
may include a variety of images (e.g., animal shapes, triangles,
and other geometric shapes) that can be at least partially defined
by the print layer 112.
[0021] FIG. 1B is a front view of the target assembly 100
illustrated in FIG. 1A after a plurality of projectile holes 150
(e.g., bullet holes) have been formed near and/or around the
intended points of impact 121a and 121b. Referring to FIGS. 1A and
1B together, the data collection guide 140 may provide data entry
regions 141a and 141b corresponding to the intended points of
impact 121a and 121b. The individual data entry regions 141a and
141b may include data input fields for one or more variables. For
example, the data entry region 141a may provide a shot result data
field 142a. The shot result may include entry fields such as group
size (e.g., number of projectile holes 150) and group distance
measurement M.sub.1 (e.g., distance between the two farthest
projectile holes 150). Likewise, data entry region 141b may provide
a shot result data field 142b for recording group size and group
distance measurement M.sub.2. The shot result data fields 142a and
142b may also include fields (not shown) for recording target
distance and other distance accuracy information, such as minutes
of angle (MOA).
[0022] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the data entry regions
141a and 141b may also include firearm information data fields 143a
and 143b, e.g., for recording firearm make/model, caliber, scope
magnification/model, etc. Other variables that may affect shooting
accuracy and/or range conditions may include environmental
conditions (e.g., date/time, sun/brightness level, wind
speed/direction, humidity, temperature, etc.). These and/or other
environmental variables may be recorded in range condition data
fields 144a and 144b. Additionally, the speed that a projectile
travels may affect the flight path of the projectile and,
therefore, the location of impact on an intended target. Marksmen
commonly use a chronograph to measure the velocity of each
projectile as it leaves the firearm. The velocity of each
projectile as well as group velocity statistics may be recorded in
chronograph data fields 145a and 145b. As described above,
ammunition can differ in a variety of aspects including, but not
limited to, bullet weight/brand, powder weight/brand and/or powder
composition, case brand/type, number of times a case has been
loaded and/or trimmed, the case length, primer composition, and
overall length of the loaded cartridge (can depend on depth of
bullet seating within the case). One or more of these ammunition
variables may be recorded in load data fields 146a and 146b.
[0023] One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the
data entry regions 141a and 141b may include additional fields,
fewer data fields, or data fields in other configurations. While
the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B show the data
collection guide 140 at least partially defined by the print layer
112 of the target assembly 100, other embodiments may include the
data collection guide 140 at least partially defined by a secondary
print layer (not shown) on a back surface (not shown) facing
opposite the front surface 102. Embodiments of target assemblies
100 having a data collection guide 140 may include a writeable
surface for recording the data directly on the target assembly 100.
In other embodiments, the data collection guide 140 and/or the data
entry regions 141a and 141b may be separate labels (not shown) that
are selectively attached (e.g., with an adhesive) to the target
assembly 100 for record-keeping purposes.
[0024] As illustrated in FIG. 1B, and in one embodiment, the target
assembly 100 may be configured for accurately determining the
location of projectile impact points (e.g., projectile holes 150).
For example, the substrate 110 may include a material having a low
shearing response, such as a synthetic material that enables a
projectile (not shown) to penetrate the target assembly 100 at an
impact point along a projectile path (not shown) without
substantially tearing, ripping, fragmenting, expanding, wrinkling,
etc., a surrounding region 152 proximal to the impact points (e.g.,
projectile holes 150). In some arrangements, the synthetic material
is configured to maintain target integrity in the surrounding
region 152. In other arrangements, the synthetic material is
configured to prevent enlargement of a through-substrate aperture
(e.g., projectile hole 150) formed by the projectile traveling
along the projectile path.
[0025] In one embodiment, the substrate 110 may include a synthetic
polymer such as a layer of vinyl (e.g., polyvinyl chloride). In
another embodiment, the substrate 110 may include a layer of
polypropylene (e.g., polypropylene film). In a further embodiment,
the substrate 110 may include a layer of polyester film. In yet
another embodiment, the substrate 110 may include a plurality of
laminated layers, including one layer having a synthetic polymer.
In some embodiments, the substrate 110 may have a matte finish with
a writeable surface. One example of a suitable material for forming
the substrate 110 is a Propel.TM. matte-finished,
carbonated-filled, calendered polypropylene film manufactured by
Mayna located in East Asia. One of ordinary skill in the art will
recognize that additional synthetic polymers, grainless synthetic
polymers (e.g., without synthetic or natural fibers), including
thermoplastic polymers, and/or other synthetic stocks may be used
for forming at least a portion of the substrate 110.
[0026] In other embodiments, the substrate 110 may include a core
substrate material formed of an organic material (e.g., paper,
cardboard, etc.) or synthetic fibrous material (e.g., Tyvek.RTM.
material produced by DuPont of Wilmington, Del.) that has an
exterior coating. In some embodiments, the exterior coating may
penetrate the core substrate material; however, in other
embodiments, the exterior coating may remain adhered only to an
outer surface of the core substrate material. In one embodiment,
the synthetic coating may include a polyurethane-based coating. In
other embodiments, the coating may be any film-polymer coating
(i.e., paint, stain, epoxy, synthetic plastic, varnish, etc.). In
some embodiments, the coating may provide water-resistant or other
protective features. In one embodiment, the coating may be at least
partially transparent. In some arrangements, the core synthetic
material may have a first shearing response that can be reduced to
a second shearing response by the exterior coating.
[0027] The substrate 110, or core substrate material and exterior
coating, may permit the projectile (not shown), having a first
major cross-sectional dimension transverse to the projectile path,
to penetrate the target assembly 100 and remove a portion (not
shown) of the target assembly (which may include both a portion of
the substrate 110 and a portion of the print layer 112). Following
projectile impact, the projectile hole 150 may have smooth edges
with a second major cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter)
substantially equal to the first major cross-sectional dimension.
For example, the substrate 110, with or without an exterior
coating, may include a brittle material that permits the projectile
to cleanly break the one or more target assembly layers at the
impact point. The relationship between the major cross-sectional
dimension of the projectile and the characteristics of projectile
holes 150 are described in greater detail below with respect to a
target assembly 200 illustrated in FIG. 2.
[0028] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the target assembly
200 illustrating a projectile 210 passing through the target
assembly 200 in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
The target assembly 200 is generally similar to the target assembly
100 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B. In the illustrated embodiment,
the assembly 200 differs from the assembly 100 in that the target
assembly 200 has a different target image 201. When in use, the
target assembly 200 may be positioned at any distance away from the
shooter (not shown) and may be supported by a target stand 202.
FIG. 2 illustrates the target assembly 200 supported by the target
stand 202 in a plane that is generally transverse to the intended
flight path of the projectile 210. The target stand 202 may support
the target assembly 200 as shown, or in other embodiments, the
target firearm assembly 200 may be supported by other features
(e.g., a hanging wire with clips, a target backer to which the
assembly is adhesively attached), or in additional embodiments, the
target assembly 200 may be self-supporting. One of ordinary skill
in the art will recognize a variety of target stands and/or
features for supporting targets in desired positions and
orientations.
[0029] The target assembly 200 includes the substrate 110
configured for accurately determining the location of projectile
impact points (e.g., bullet holes). Specifically, the projectile
210 having a first major cross-sectional dimension D.sub.1 (e.g.,
diameter) transverse to a projectile path 212 may form a projectile
hole 220 having an aperture with a second major cross-sectional
dimension D.sub.2. In this embodiment, the second major
cross-sectional dimension D.sub.2 is substantially equal to the
first major cross-sectional dimension D.sub.1. For example, if the
projectile 210 includes a first major cross-sectional dimension
D.sub.1 of 0.22 inches, the projectile hole 220 may have a second
major cross-sectional dimension D.sub.2 of 0.22 inches.
Accordingly, in some arrangements, the synthetic material is
configured to prevent enlargement of the through-substrate aperture
(e.g., projectile hole 150) formed by the projectile. Furthermore,
a surrounding region 222, proximal to the projectile hole 220, is
generally unaffected (e.g., without wrinkles, tears, stretched
areas, etc.) following projectile impact.
[0030] FIGS. 3A-3C are cross-sectional views along line 3-3 in FIG.
1A of embodiments of the target assembly 100 (individually
illustrated as 100a, 100b, and 100c) in accordance with the present
disclosure. Referring to FIGS. 3A-3C, the target assembly 100 may
be generally planar and have a first side 302 and a second side 304
opposite the first side 302. In other embodiments, the target
assembly 100 may have other configurations, such as curved,
three-dimensional, folded, etc. The target assembly 100 may have a
thickness T.sub.1 (individually illustrated as T.sub.1a, T.sub.1b,
and T.sub.1c) that may be substantially equal to a thickness of the
substrate 110; however, in other embodiments the thickness T.sub.1
can be greater than the thickness of the substrate. In one example,
the thickness T.sub.1 can be approximately 0.006 inches (i.e., 6
mil gauge) to approximately 0.012 inches (i.e., 12 mil gauge). In
one embodiment, the thickness T.sub.1 can be 0.008 inches (i.e., 8
mil gauge). However, in other embodiments the thickness T.sub.1 can
be less than 0.006 inches or greater than 0.012 inches.
[0031] FIG. 3A illustrates an embodiment of the target assembly
100a wherein the print layer 112 is applied directly onto the
substrate 110. In this embodiment, the substrate 110 is a single
layer, such as a synthetic polymer layer (e.g., a plastic sheet)
that has a printable surface (not shown). In some embodiments, the
substrate 110 may include a first color (e.g., white, orange,
etc.), and the print layer 112 can include a second color (e.g.,
black, blue, etc.) different from the first color. In one
embodiment, the first side 302 includes the print layer 112 wherein
the print layer at least partially defines a target image (e.g.,
the target image 120 shown in FIG. 1A). In another embodiment, the
substrate 112 may not have a printable surface but may include a
printable overlay coating (not shown) to which the print layer 112
can be directly applied. For example, the print layer 112 may
include one or more layers of ink. In one embodiment, the ink
layers may be applied using a double bumping coating process. A
double bumping coating process includes printing an image twice so
that the image includes two layers of overlaid ink, for example, to
can achieve greater ink density and color saturation. Accordingly,
double bumping can yield higher gloss results and/or create a
visual contrast between gloss and matte finishes, e.g., for better
visibility or UV protection. In another embodiment, the second side
304 may include a second print layer (not shown).
[0032] In another embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 3B, the target
assembly 100b includes the substrate 110 as described above with
respect to the target assembly 100a (FIG. 3A). The target assembly
100b differs from the assembly 100a in that the target assembly
100b includes a separate print layer 306. The print layer 112 may
be printed on a sheet of paper, plastic, or other printable
material to form the separate print layer 306 and may be attached
to the substrate 110 with an adhesive (not shown) such as an
adhesive film, epoxy, tape, paste, or other suitable material. In
one example, a laminating process using heat and/or pressure can be
used to form the bond between the separate print layer 306 and the
substrate 110.
[0033] FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view along line 3-3 of FIG. 1A
illustrating another embodiment of a target assembly 100c in
accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The target
assembly 100c differs from the target assemblies 100a and 100b in
that the substrate 110 includes a core layer 308 and two exterior
layers 310a and 310b. The exterior layers 310a and 310b may include
a synthetic polymer or other material for permitting a projectile
(not shown) to penetrate the assembly 100c while maintaining target
integrity in a surrounding region (e.g., the surrounding region 152
shown in FIG. 1B) proximal to the projectile hole (e.g., projectile
hole 150 shown in FIG. 1B). In one embodiment, the core layer 308
may include a paper layer, a fiber-containing layer, or other
similar organic and/or non-organic composite. The exterior layers
310a, 310b may include exterior coats having a synthetic material
that prevents the core layer 308 from tearing, wrinkling,
stretching, enlarging, etc., upon projectile impact. In another
embodiment, the exterior layers 310a and 310b may include sheets of
synthetic material configured to adhesively attach to the core
layer 308. For example, the exterior layers 310a and 310b may
include a synthetic polymer film (e.g., polypropylene, polyester,
polyvinyl, polyolefin, etc.).
[0034] Referring to FIG. 3C, the print layer 112, in one
embodiment, may be at least at the first side 302 of the target
assembly 100c. In this embodiment, at least the exterior layer 310a
includes a printable surface. In another embodiment, the core layer
308 may include a printable front side 312 and/or a back side 314
facing opposite the front side 312. In some arrangements, not
shown, the core layer 308 may be pre-printed to form the print
layer 112, prior to applying the exterior layers 310a and/or 310b.
In one specific embodiment, the core layer 308 may be a
conventional preprinted paper target. In this embodiment, the paper
target can be treated by applying a transparent exterior coating to
form the exterior layers 310a and 310b.
[0035] The embodiments of the target assemblies 100a-c illustrated
in FIGS. 3A-3C do not exhaustively illustrate all of the
combinations of materials and layers that may be used to form the
target assembly 100, but are set forth only as examples.
Additionally, in some embodiments, the thickness T.sub.1 and/or the
materials used may allow the target assembly 100 to be flexible. In
other embodiments, these features may make the target assembly 100
rigid. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize additional
combinations of materials and layers to form target assemblies 100
configured for accurately determining the location of projectile
points of impact, for example, by limiting the projectile hole
diameter to approximately no greater than a projectile
diameter.
[0036] Referring back to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the target assembly 100
may include a plurality of pre-punched holes 160 along an edge
region 162 of at least the substrate 110. One or more pre-punched
holes 160 may be configured to releaseably receive a fastener for
retaining the target assembly 100 in a protective covering
(described in more detail below) and/or a stand used during a
shooting round. In some embodiments, the edge region 162 may be
reinforced with a support member 164 (shown in dotted lines in FIG.
1A) coupled to the substrate 110 at the edge region 162 to increase
edge rigidity. In other embodiments, the target assembly 100 may
not have one or more pre-punched holes 160. In some arrangements
the target assembly 100 may be hole-punched by a user at any time
and at any location on the target assembly 100.
[0037] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view illustration of a plurality
of target assemblies 400 in accordance with a further embodiment of
the disclosure. The target assemblies 400 may be fabricated,
printed, or otherwise processed in an assembly-line process. In the
illustrated embodiment, the plurality of target assemblies 400
having one or more target images 402, data collection guides 404,
and/or other information may be produced simultaneously during a
manufacturing process. Furthermore, other processing features, such
as pre-punched holes 406, may also be provided for individual
target assemblies 400. In some embodiments, and as illustrated in
FIG. 4, a plurality of perforation lines 408 may be provided during
the manufacturing process to facilitate separation of the
assemblies 400 from one another. The fabricated material (e.g., the
substrate 110 and/or the print layer 112) may be flexible and
rolled, as illustrated in FIG. 4. In some embodiments, the
assemblies 400 may be packaged and sold in a roll. In other
embodiments, the assemblies 400 may be folded accordion-style
before separation and packaged for sale, or in further embodiments,
the assemblies 400 may be separated immediately and packaged for
sale. Additionally, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize
that the target assemblies 400 may be manufactured to any desirable
size and shape.
[0038] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view illustration of a firearm
target system 500 in accordance with an embodiment of the
disclosure. The system 500 can include a protective covering 502
(e.g., a binder) having one or more releasable fasteners 504
configured to releaseably retain one or more target assemblies 506.
The target assemblies 506 can be generally similar to the target
assembly 100 (FIG. 1A) and the target assembly 200 (FIG. 2). The
target assembly 506 may differ from the assemblies 100 and 200 in
that the assembly 506 includes a different target image 508. The
target assemblies 506 may be provided with a plurality of
pre-punched holes 510 (e.g., 3 prepunched holes 510) for
accommodating the releasable fasteners 504. In many instances,
marksmen will benefit from retaining accuracy and/or
shot-consistency records generated under a plurality of
environmental conditions, with different shooting range distances,
and/or with different firearm equipment and ammunition. The firearm
target system 500, including the protective covering 502, may
provide a record-keeping and tracking system for the plurality of
target assemblies 506 before and/or after shooting rounds.
[0039] Firearm target assemblies, such as the target assembly 100,
which can provide accurate determination of projectile hole
placement, may facilitate correct tracking of equipment
performance. For example, after firing a group of projectiles, a
marksman may locate the two projectile holes 150 with the greatest
separation distance. To measure the group distance, the marksman
may predict the center of each of these two projectile holes 150
and measure the intervening distance (e.g., measurements M.sub.1
and M.sub.2). Having projectile holes 150 formed with the major
cross-sectional dimension D.sub.2 substantially equal to the major
cross-sectional dimension D.sub.1 of the projectile may be
beneficial for determining the center of the projectile hole 150.
Conventional targets typically have enlarging holes and/or have
damaged target regions proximal to an impact point. For example,
conventional targets commonly tear, wrinkle, have jagged and/or
torn edges around projectile holes, etc. following projectile
impact. Furthermore, disruption of target integrity following one
or more fired shots can impair target visibility for subsequent
shots within a group. For example, an enlarged projectile hole near
an intended point of impact may destroy visibility of the intended
point of impact, or in another example, a torn region near one hole
may impinge the marksman's site line of the intended point of
impact.
[0040] In contrast, the target assembly 100 may maintain target
integrity, including integrity of a remaining target image 120,
following projectile impact. For example, a projectile hole 150 may
have clean edges without tearing, wrinkling, enlarging and/or
stretching in the surrounding regions 152 proximal to the
projectile holes 150. Accordingly, measurements between projectile
holes 150, including overlapping projectile holes, will have
predictable centers that can be measured with dial calipers, for
example. Moreover, visibility of the remaining target image 120 is
undisturbed following projectile impact.
[0041] Additionally, the target assembly (e.g., the target assembly
100) may be provided with the data collection guide 140 for
reliably tracking information pertaining to equipment and/or
shooting conditions. The data collection guide 140 may be printed
directly on the target assembly 100 or, in other embodiments, may
be provided as labels that may be adhesively attached to the target
assembly 100. A plurality of target assemblies 100 may be retained
in a record-keeping system for tracking equipment characteristics
(e.g., ammunition aspects, firearm make/model, etc.) and
performance (e.g., MOA, group distance, etc.). The target
assemblies 100 may be provided with pre-punched holes and/or
reinforced regions for retaining in a protective covering.
[0042] A plurality of firearm target assemblies (e.g., the target
assembly 100) may be packaged together, with or without a
protective covering (e.g., protective covering 502), and sold as a
kit. For example, the kit may provide target assemblies having
different target images (e.g., geometric shapes, animal shapes,
etc.) and/or target images printed in a plurality of sizes (e.g., a
4-inch bull's-eye, a 10-inch bull's-eye, etc.) for target shooting
at varying distances. The kit may further include the protective
covering or other retaining device for saving and tracking the
target assemblies 100. One of ordinary skill in the art will
recognize other elements that could be beneficially included in the
kit (e.g., a target stand, labels having the data collection guide
or other data fields, permanent markers for data recording, etc.).
In other embodiments, the target assemblies and record-keeping
elements may be sold as separate units.
[0043] FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a
method 600 for manufacturing firearm target assemblies. The method
600 can include forming a substrate having at least a synthetic
polymer layer (block 610). The synthetic polymer layer may prevent
enlargement of a through-substrate aperture formed by a projectile
traveling along a projectile path. The substrate may also have a
first color. The method 600 may also include applying a print layer
on the substrate to at least partially define a target image (block
620). The print layer may include a second color different from the
first color.
[0044] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific
embodiments of the disclosure have been described herein for
purposes of illustration, but that various modifications may be
made without deviating from the disclosure. Furthermore, aspects of
the disclosure described in the context of particular embodiments
may be combined or eliminated in other embodiments. Further, while
features and characteristics associated with certain embodiments of
the disclosure have been described in the context of those
embodiments, other embodiments may also exhibit such features and
characteristics, and not all embodiments need necessarily exhibit
such features and characteristics to fall within the scope of the
disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is not limited, except as
by the appended claims.
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