U.S. patent application number 12/023148 was filed with the patent office on 2009-08-06 for hit scoring target operable by an electromagnetic signature detector.
Invention is credited to Peretz AMITAI, Refael Azulai.
Application Number | 20090194943 12/023148 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40930881 |
Filed Date | 2009-08-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090194943 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
AMITAI; Peretz ; et
al. |
August 6, 2009 |
HIT SCORING TARGET OPERABLE BY AN ELECTROMAGNETIC SIGNATURE
DETECTOR
Abstract
A hit scoring target comprising a target panel connected to a
hit scoring management unit. The hit scoring management unit
comprises an electromagnetic signature sensor operatively
associated with the target panel. The electromagnetic signature
sensor may be a capacitance sensor, inductance sensor or magnetic
field sensor. The hit scoring management unit further comprises a
control unit operatively associated with the electromagnetic
sensor. The control unit is arranged to count the number of
detected changes in the electromagnetic signature of target panel,
and invoke a predetermined action upon reaching a predefined
number, wherein each change in the electromagnetic signature of the
panel target is associated with a projectile passing through target
panel. The action invoked may be tilting down the target panel or
transmitting information relating to the hit scoring on the target
panel.
Inventors: |
AMITAI; Peretz; (Ramat
Hasharon, IL) ; Azulai; Refael; (Netanya,
IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Fleit Gibbons Gutman Bongini & Bianco PL
21355 EAST DIXIE HIGHWAY, SUITE 115
MIAMI
FL
33180
US
|
Family ID: |
40930881 |
Appl. No.: |
12/023148 |
Filed: |
January 31, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
273/373 ;
273/371 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41J 5/14 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
273/373 ;
273/371 |
International
Class: |
F41J 5/044 20060101
F41J005/044; F41J 5/14 20060101 F41J005/14 |
Claims
1. A hit scoring system for enabling shooting practice comprising:
a target panel having a steady state electromagnetic signature; an
electromagnetic signature sensor operatively associated with said
target panel; a control unit operatively associated with said
electromagnetic detector; wherein said control unit is arranged to
count the number of detected changes in the electromagnetic
signature of the target panel, and invoke a predetermined action
upon reaching a predefined number; wherein each change in the
electromagnetic signature of the panel target is associated with a
projectile passing through the target panel.
2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a drive and a
mechanical module operatively associated with said control unit;
wherein responsive of the control unit, the drive and the
mechanical module are arranged to tilt down the panel target.
3. The system of claim 1, further comprising a communication module
operatively associated with said control module; wherein responsive
of the control unit, the communication module is arranged to
transmit information related to the hit scoring of said target
panel.
4. The system of claim 1, further comprising a counter coupled
between the electromagnetic sensor and the control unit; wherein
the counter is arranged to count each change in the electromagnetic
signature of the target panel beyond a predefined threshold.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the electromagnetic sensor is at
least one of the following sensors: capacitance sensor, inductance
sensor, magnetic field sensor, combination thereof.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the target panel is a three
dimensional target.
7. The system of claim 1, further comprising a temporal
manipulation module coupled between said target panel and said
electromagnetic signature sensor; wherein the temporal manipulation
module is arranged to manipulate the temporal parameters of the
electromagnetic signature such that they are adapted to the
electromagnetic sensor.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the target panel comprises at
least two conducting panels with an insulating material between
them.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein each panel of the target panel
comprises an extension arranged to be attached to the
electromagnetic signature sensor.
10. A target panel for use in a hit scoring target based on
detecting the change in the electromagnetic signature in said
target panel, said target panel comprising: at least two conducting
members eclectically insulated from each other by an insulating
material and arranged to exhibit a measurable change in the
electromagnetic signature of the target panel when a projectile
passes through it.
11. The target panel of claim 10, wherein said two conducting
members are formed as panels.
12. The target panel of claim 10, wherein each conducting member
further comprises an extension arranged to be attached to an
electromagnetic signature sensor.
13. The target panel of claim 10, wherein said insulating material
is at least one of the following: polymer, plastic, rubber.
14. A method of counting the number of projectiles passing through
a target panel, said method comprising: detecting a change in the
electromagnetic signature of a target panel; counting the number of
detected changes in the electromagnetic signature of said target
panel; invoking a predefined action upon reaching a predefined
number of detected changes in the electromagnetic signature of said
target panel.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the action invoked upon
reaching a predefined number of detected changes is transmitting
information relating to the hit scoring on said target panel.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein the action invoked upon
reaching a predefined number of detected changes in the
electromagnetic signature of said target panel is a mechanical
action relating to the target panel.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the mechanical action relating
to the target panel comprises tilting down the target panel.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to hit scoring target for
shooting practice, and more particularly, to such a target that is
operable by detecting change in the electromagnetic signature
thereof.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Hit scoring targets are used for shooting practicing
purposes and are well known in the art. In some shooting practices,
it is desired to arrange the hit scoring targets such that the
target falls down after a predefined number of successful shots
have been achieved.
[0003] Accordingly, several patents and patent applications are
known to address the need to count the number of projectiles
passing through the hit scoring target. Specifically, U.S. Pat. No.
6,994,347 to Tessel which is incorporated by reference herein in
its entirety discloses a hit scoring target that is arranged to
operate on the principle of producing a short circuit between two
conductive layers whenever a projectile traverses the target.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention suggest an
improved mechanism for counting the number of projectiles passing
through a hit scoring target, overcoming problems associated with
targets that operate on the principle of producing a short circuit
between the two layers of the target. Such problems derive from the
fact that a short circuit is a binary parameter. A circuit is
either short circuited or not. Thus, any projectile that gets stuck
in the target interferes with the proper operation of the
target.
[0005] The present invention overcomes the problems associated with
short circuit based detectors by providing a detector that is
arranged to detect the changes of the electromagnetic signature of
the target. Electromagnetic signature is the combination of
parameters indicative of the characteristics of the electrical
field and the magnetic field or the response thereto of a certain
object
[0006] Specifically, such a detector is operatively associated with
a target panel that has a certain electromagnetic signature in
steady state. The signature temporally changes whenever a
projectile passes through it. A control unit operatively associated
with the detector is arranged to decide when such change in the
electromagnetic signature is indicative of a passing projectile. In
the event of a projectile being stuck at the target, the control
unit may be arranged to assign the new electromagnetic signature as
the new steady state and use it as a reference for further changes.
Thus, the change in the signature is monitored and a more robust
hit scoring target is achieved.
[0007] Potential electromagnetic signature detectors may be
capacitance detectors, inductance detectors and magnetic field
detectors but they are not limited to specific implementations.
Accordingly, the target panel is an object that comprises at least
two conducting members and an insulating material between them.
Such a structure defines the two edges to which the electromagnetic
detection refers.
[0008] In embodiments, the target panel may comprise two metallic
layers with an insulating material between them. Accordingly,
extensions of the metallic layers serve as coupling means for
attaching the target panel to the electromagnetic signature
detector. This further contributes to the physical robustness of
the hit scoring target as a whole, eliminating the use of
vulnerable cables.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The subject matter regarded as the invention will become
more clearly understood in light of the ensuing description of
embodiments herein, given by way of example and for purposes of
illustrative discussion of the present invention only, with
reference to the accompanying drawings (Figures, or simply
"FIGS."), wherein:
[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic isometric diagram illustrating the hit
scoring target according to some embodiments of the disclosure;
[0011] FIG. 2 is another schematic isometric diagram illustrating
the hit scoring target according to some embodiments of the
disclosure;
[0012] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross section diagram illustrating the
attachment means between the target panel and the base of the hit
scoring target according to some embodiments of the disclosure;
[0013] FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram showing the building
blocks of the hit scoring management unit according to some
embodiments of the disclosure;
[0014] FIG. 5 is a high level flow chart illustrating the stages of
the method according to some embodiments of the disclosure;
[0015] The drawings together with the description make apparent to
those skilled in the art how the invention may be embodied in
practice.
[0016] Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals
may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or
analogous elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0017] In the following detailed description, numerous specific
details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding
of the disclosure. However, it will be understood by those skilled
in the art that the teachings of the present disclosure may be
practiced without these specific details. In other instances,
well-known methods, procedures, components and circuits have not
been described in detail so as not to obscure the teachings of the
present disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 show schematic isometric diagrams
illustrating the hit scoring target according to some embodiments
of the disclosure. The hit scoring target comprises a body target
100 enveloping a target panel (not shown). The target panel is
attached to a target holder 120 that connects in turn to a target
base 110. The target holder 120 comprises two attaching panels 210
and 220 that are eclectically insolated by a rod 240 that attaches
to the target panel. Attaching panels 210 and 220 provide the
required electrical coupling, together with cables 230, between
target base 110 and the target panel.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross section diagram illustrating the
attachment means between the target panel 300 and the target base
110 according to some embodiments of the disclosure. The target
panel 300 comprising a first layer of conducting material 310 and a
second layer of conducting material 320 held together with an
insulating material 330 between them. Advantageously, these
attaching means provide further robustness eliminating the need of
cables for connecting the target panel to the target holder.
[0020] FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram showing the building
blocks of the hit scoring management unit 400 according to some
embodiments of the disclosure. The hit scoring system for enabling
shooting practice comprises a target panel 300 (not shown here)
having a steady state electromagnetic signature, an electromagnetic
signature sensor 410 operatively associated with target panel 300.
It further comprises a control unit 430 operatively associated with
electromagnetic sensor 410. Control unit 430 is arranged to count
the number of detected changes in the electromagnetic signature of
target panel 300, and invoke a predetermined action upon reaching a
predefined number, wherein each change in the electromagnetic
signature of the panel target is associated with a projectile
passing through target panel 300.
[0021] According to some embodiments of the invention, hit scoring
management unit 400 further comprises a drive 460 and a mechanical
module 470 operatively associated with control unit 430. Responsive
to control unit 430, drive 460 and mechanical module 470 are
arranged to tilt down the panel target 300.
[0022] According to some embodiments of the invention, hit scoring
management unit 400 further comprises a communication module 440
operatively associated with control module 430. Responsive of
control unit 430, communication module 440 is arranged to transmit
information related to the hit scoring of target panel 300.
[0023] According to some embodiments of the invention, hit scoring
management unit 400 further comprises a counter 420 coupled between
electromagnetic sensor 410 and control unit 430. Counter 420 is
arranged to count each change in the electromagnetic signature of
target panel 300 beyond a predefined threshold.
[0024] According to some embodiments of the invention,
electromagnetic sensor 410 may be implemented as a capacitance
sensor, inductance sensor, magnetic field sensor, combination
thereof and the like.
[0025] According to some embodiments of the invention, the hit
scoring system further comprises a temporal manipulation module
(not shown) coupled between target panel 300 and electromagnetic
signature sensor 410. The temporal manipulation module is arranged
to manipulate the temporal parameters of the electromagnetic
signature such that they are adapted to the electromagnetic
signature sensor. Such manipulation may be lag generation, signal
expansion and the like.
[0026] According to some embodiments of the invention target panel
300 is a three dimensional target.
[0027] According to some embodiments of the invention, the
invention comprises solely target panel 300 for use in a hit
scoring target based on detecting the change in the electromagnetic
signature in said target panel. Specifically, target panel 300
comprises at least two conducting members eclectically insulated
from each other and arranged to exhibit a measurable change in the
electromagnetic signature of the target panel when a projectile
passes through it.
[0028] According to some embodiments of the invention, target panel
300, comprises two metallic members formed as panels and further
comprising an extension arranged to be attached to an
electromagnetic signature sensor 410.
[0029] According to some embodiments of the invention, the
insulating material of target panel 300, may be any of the
following: polymer, plastic, rubber and the like.
[0030] FIG. 5 is a high level flow chart illustrating the stages of
the method according to some embodiments of the disclosure. The
method starts with the stage of detecting a change in the
electromagnetic signature of a target panel 510. It then goes on to
the stage of counting the number of detected changes in the
electromagnetic signature of said target panel 520. Then it goes on
to the stage of invoking a predefined action 540 upon reaching a
predefined number of detected changes in the electromagnetic
signature of said target panel 530.
[0031] According to some embodiments, the action invoked upon
reaching a predefined number of detected changes is the stage of
transmitting information relating to the hit scoring on target pane
300.
[0032] According to some embodiments, wherein the action invoked
upon reaching a predefined number of detected changes in the
electromagnetic signature of said target panel is a mechanical
action relating to the target panel.
[0033] According to some embodiments, the mechanical action
relating to the target panel comprises tilting down the target
panel.
[0034] According to some embodiments of the invention, hit scoring
management unit 400 can be implemented in digital electronic
circuitry, or in computer hardware, firmware, software, or in
combinations of them. Apparatus of the invention can be implemented
in a computer program product tangibly embodied in an information
carrier, e.g., in a machine-readable storage device or in a
propagated signal, for execution by a programmable processor; and
method steps of the invention can be performed by a programmable
processor executing a program of instructions to perform functions
of the invention by operating on input data and generating
output.
[0035] Specifically, hit scoring management unit 400 can be
implemented advantageously in one or more computer programs that
are executable on a programmable system including at least one
programmable processor coupled to receive data and instructions
from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a data storage
system, at least one input device, and at least one output device.
A computer program is a set of instructions that can be used,
directly or indirectly, in a computer to perform a certain activity
or bring about a certain result. A computer program can be written
in any form of programming language, including compiled or
interpreted languages, and it can be deployed in any form,
including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component,
subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing
environment.
[0036] Additionally, hit scoring management unit 400 may be
implemented by and utilize processors for the execution of a
program of instructions include, by way of example, both general
and special purpose microprocessors, and the sole processor or one
of multiple processors of any kind of computer. Generally, a
processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only
memory or a random access memory or both. The essential elements of
a computer, such as the communication device according to the
present invention are a processor for executing instructions and
one or more memories for storing instructions and data.
[0037] In the above description, an embodiment is an example or
implementation of the inventions. The various appearances of "one
embodiment," "an embodiment" or "some embodiments" do not
necessarily all refer to the same embodiments.
[0038] Although various features of the invention may be described
in the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be
provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely,
although the invention may be described herein in the context of
separate embodiments for clarity, the invention may also be
implemented in a single embodiment.
[0039] Reference in the specification to "some embodiments", "an
embodiment", "one embodiment" or "other embodiments" means that a
particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in
connection with the embodiments is included in at least some
embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments, of the
inventions.
[0040] It is understood that the phraseology and terminology
employed herein is not to be construed as limiting and are for
descriptive purpose only.
[0041] The principles and uses of the teachings of the present
invention may be better understood with reference to the
accompanying description, figures and examples.
[0042] It is to be understood that the details set forth herein do
not construe a limitation to an application of the invention.
[0043] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the invention can
be carried out or practiced in various ways and that the invention
can be implemented in embodiments other than the ones outlined in
the description above.
[0044] It is to be understood that the terms "including",
"comprising", "consisting" and grammatical variants thereof do not
preclude the addition of one or more components, features, steps,
or integers or groups thereof and that the terms are to be
construed as specifying components, features, steps or
integers.
[0045] If the specification or claims refer to "an additional"
element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the
additional element.
[0046] It is to be understood that where the claims or
specification refer to "a" or "an" element, such reference is not
be construed that there is only one of that element.
[0047] It is to be understood that where the specification states
that a component, feature, structure, or characteristic "may",
"might", "can" or "could" be included, that particular component,
feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be
included.
[0048] Where applicable, although state diagrams, flow diagrams or
both may be used to describe embodiments, the invention is not
limited to those diagrams or to the corresponding descriptions. For
example, flow need not move through each illustrated box or state,
or in exactly the same order as illustrated and described.
[0049] Methods of the present invention may be implemented by
performing or completing manually, automatically, or a combination
thereof, selected steps or tasks.
[0050] The term "method" may refer to manners, means, techniques
and procedures for accomplishing a given task including, but not
limited to, those manners, means, techniques and procedures either
known to, or readily developed from known manners, means,
techniques and procedures by practitioners of the art to which the
invention belongs.
[0051] The descriptions, examples, methods and materials presented
in the claims and the specification are not to be construed as
limiting but rather as illustrative only.
[0052] Meanings of technical and scientific terms used herein are
to be commonly understood as by one of ordinary skill in the art to
which the invention belongs, unless otherwise defined.
[0053] The present invention can be implemented in the testing or
practice with methods and materials equivalent or similar to those
described herein.
[0054] Any publications, including patents, patent applications and
articles, referenced or mentioned in this specification are herein
incorporated in their entirety into the specification, to the same
extent as if each individual publication was specifically and
individually indicated to be incorporated herein. In addition,
citation or identification of any reference in the description of
some embodiments of the invention shall not be construed as an
admission that such reference is available as prior art to the
present invention.
[0055] While the invention has been described with respect to a
limited number of embodiments, these should not be construed as
limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as
exemplifications of some of the preferred embodiments. Those
skilled in the art will envision other possible variations,
modifications, and applications that are also within the scope of
the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should not
be limited by what has thus far been described, but by the appended
claims and their legal equivalents.
* * * * *