U.S. patent application number 14/920479 was filed with the patent office on 2016-03-31 for portable, wireless electronic target devices, systems and methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is MASON TARGET SYSTEMS, LLC. Invention is credited to Gregory T. MASON.
Application Number | 20160091285 14/920479 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55584034 |
Filed Date | 2016-03-31 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160091285 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MASON; Gregory T. |
March 31, 2016 |
PORTABLE, WIRELESS ELECTRONIC TARGET DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND
METHODS
Abstract
Disclosed are targets devices and method of using the target
devices for electronically determining the location of projectile
impacts on the surface of a target. The impact location is
determined in a number of ways, including by use of a plurality of
accelerometers or piezo-vibration sensors to determine the impact
area and transmit data relating to the impact to a remote receiver
for real-time presentation to the shooter. The method enables the
shooting position to be determined by means of relatively
economical electronic systems and the shooting target is portable
such that the shooter may bring the target to a plurality of firing
ranges and locations to convey the same real-time reporting and
benefits to the shooter. The shooting target may be set-up on a
standard target stand to wirelessly relay shot impact information
to a portable personal computing device to present real-time
virtual impact data to the shooter. This data can then be stored
and categorized given user-selected inputs and shared with other
shooters in an online forum.
Inventors: |
MASON; Gregory T.; (San
Francisco, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MASON TARGET SYSTEMS, LLC |
San Francisco |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55584034 |
Appl. No.: |
14/920479 |
Filed: |
October 22, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14522344 |
Oct 23, 2014 |
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14920479 |
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14154131 |
Jan 13, 2014 |
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14522344 |
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62111527 |
Feb 3, 2015 |
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61825981 |
May 21, 2013 |
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61831594 |
Aug 28, 2013 |
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61825981 |
May 21, 2013 |
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61831594 |
Aug 28, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
273/372 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41J 5/06 20130101; F41J
1/10 20130101; F41J 5/14 20130101; F41J 5/04 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41J 5/04 20060101
F41J005/04 |
Claims
1. A target scoring device comprising: a frame having two or more
base members, a support member and a locking mechanism about which
the two or more base members and the support member rotate through
a range of 180.degree.; a securement device which secures the frame
in a configuration where the support member and the two or more
base members are secured in an angular orientation from 0 to
180.degree.; an impenetrable target plate having a front surface,
rear surface and side surface affixed to the support member on the
rear surface; a cross-member; two or more shockwave sensors
adjacent the rear surface of the target plate, wherein the two or
more shockwave sensors detect a vibration signature from a
propagation of a shockwave from a projectile strike on the front
surface of the impenetrable target plate; and a power source.
2. The target scoring device of claim 1 wherein the two or more
vibration sensors are affixed to the rear surface of the target
plate.
3. The target scoring device of claim 1 further comprising one or
more of: a handle, a vertical support mount, a rear plate, an
enclosure shield, and one or more additional cross-members.
4. The target scoring device of claim 1 further comprising a
vibration isolation device positioned between the impenetrable
target plate and the support member.
5. The target scoring device of claim 1 further comprising one or
more of a transmitter, a receiver and a transceiver wherein the one
or more transmitter, receiver and transceiver are in communication
with the two or more shockwave sensors.
6. The target scoring device of claim 5 wherein the one or more
transmitter and transceiver transmits data from the two or more
vibration sensors to an electronic device wherein the electronic
device processes data from the two or more vibration sensors to
determine a position of the projectile strike on the front surface
of the impenetrable target plate and presents a location on user
interface.
7. The target scoring device of claim 1 further comprising a target
overlay wherein the target overlay is positioned on at least a
portion of the front surface of the impenetrable target plate.
8. The target scoring device of claim 1 wherein the impenetrable
target plate comprises an impenetrable transparent material and
further wherein the target scoring device comprises an electronic
display positioned adjacent the rear surface of the impenetrable
target plate.
9. The target scoring device of claim 1 further comprising an
electric motor wherein the electric motor changes an orientation
between the support member and the two or more base members between
the angular orientation of from 0 to 180.degree..
10. A target scoring system comprising: one or more target scoring
devices comprising a frame having two or more base members, a
support member and a locking mechanism about which the two or more
base members and the support member rotate through a range of
180.degree., a securement device which secures the frame in a
configuration where the support member and the two or more base
members are secured in an angular orientation from 0 to
180.degree., an impenetrable target plate having a front surface,
rear surface and side surface affixed to the support member on the
rear surface, a cross-member, two or more shockwave sensors
adjacent the rear surface of the target plate, wherein the two or
more shockwave sensors detect a propagation of a shockwave from a
projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target
plate, and a power source; at least one electronic device in
communication with the one or more target scoring devices.
11. The target scoring system of claim 10 wherein the system
further comprises one or more of a transmitter, a receiver and a
transceiver.
12. The target scoring system of claim 10 further comprising a base
station in communication with the one or more target scoring
devices.
13. The target scoring system of claim 10 wherein a processor
converts data from the two or more shockwave sensors into a visual
representation of a location of an impact location for a projectile
on a display screen for the electronic device.
14. The target scoring system of claim 10 wherein the one or more
target scoring devices and the at least one electronic device are
in wireless communication.
15. The target scoring system of claim 14 further comprising at
least one signal booster in communication with the one or more
target scoring devices.
16. A method of target scoring comprising: displaying on a user
interface display, via a user computing device, a target; receiving
data acquired by a target scoring device comprising a projectile
impact location wherein the projectile impact location is
determined from an analyzed vibration signature of a projectile
impact at the target scoring device; and providing, via the user
interface, an indicator of the projectile impact location.
17. The method of claim 16 further comprising compiling data
received from the target scoring device to determine one or more
of: accuracy, overall score, ranking, shot number, and round.
18. The method of claim 16 further comprising accepting a data
input from a user wherein the data input comprises one or more of a
weapon type, and an ammunition type.
19. The method of claim 17 further comprising generating a
representation of cumulative performance for the user.
20. A target scoring apparatus comprising: a user computing device
configured to: display on a user interface display, via a user
computing device, a target; receive data acquired by a target
scoring device comprising a projectile impact location wherein the
projectile impact location is determined from an analyzed vibration
signature of a projectile impact at the target scoring device; and
provide, via the user interface, an indicator of the projectile
impact location
21. The target scoring apparatus of claim 20 further comprising
compiling data received from the target scoring device to determine
one or more of: accuracy, overall score, ranking, shot number, and
round.
22. The target scoring apparatus of claim 20 further comprising
accepting a data input from a user wherein the data input comprises
one or more of a weapon type, and an ammunition type.
23. The target scoring apparatus of claim 22 further comprising
generating a representation of cumulative performance for the
user.
24. A machine readable medium containing instructions that, when
executed by a computing device, cause the computing device to
perform a method, the method comprising: displaying on a user
interface display, via a user computing device, a target; receiving
data acquired by a target scoring device comprising a projectile
impact location wherein the projectile impact location is
determined from an analyzed vibration signature of a projectile
impact at the target scoring device; and providing, via the user
interface, an indicator of the projectile impact location.
25. A target scoring device means comprising: a frame means having
two or more base members means, a support member means and a means
for locking about which the two or more base members means and the
support member means rotate through a range of 180.degree.; a
securement device means which secures the frame means in a
configuration where the support member means and the two or more
base members means are secured in an angular orientation from 0 to
180.degree.; an impenetrable target plate means having a front
surface, rear surface and side surface affixed to the support
member means on the rear surface; a cross-member means; two or more
shockwave sensors means adjacent the rear surface of the target
plate means, wherein the two or more shockwave sensors means are
configurable to detect a vibration signature from a propagation of
a shockwave from a projectile strike on the front surface of the
impenetrable target plate means; and a power source means.
26. The target scoring device means of claim 25 wherein the two or
more vibration sensors means are affixed to the rear surface of the
target plate means.
27. The target scoring device means of claim 25 further comprising
one or more of: a handle means, a vertical support mount means, a
rear plate means, an enclosure shield means, and one or more
additional cross-members means.
28. The target scoring device means of claim 25 further comprising
a vibration isolation device means positioned between the
impenetrable target plate means and the support member means.
29. The target scoring device means of claim 25 further comprising
one or more of a transmitter means, a receiver means and a
transceiver means wherein the one or more transmitter means,
receiver means and transceiver means are in communication with the
two or more shockwave sensors means.
30. The target scoring device means of claim 29 wherein the one or
more transmitter means and transceiver means is configurable to
transmit data from the two or more vibration sensors means to an
electronic device means wherein the electronic device means
processes data from the two or more vibration sensors means to
determine a position of the projectile strike on the front surface
of the impenetrable target plate means and presents a location on
user interface means.
31. The target scoring means device of claim 25 further comprising
a target overlay means wherein the target overlay means is
positioned on at least a portion of the front surface of the
impenetrable target plate means.
32. The target scoring device means of claim 25 wherein the
impenetrable target plate means comprises an impenetrable
transparent material and further wherein the target scoring device
means comprises an electronic display means positioned adjacent the
rear surface of the impenetrable target plate means.
33. The target scoring device means of claim 25 further comprising
an electric motor means wherein the electric motor means changes an
orientation between the support member means and the two or more
base members means between the angular orientation of from 0 to
180.degree..
34. A target scoring system comprising: one or more target scoring
device means comprising a frame means having two or more base
member means, a support member means and a means for locking about
which the two or more base members means and the support member
means rotate through a range of 180.degree., a securement device
means which secures the frame means in a configuration where the
support member means and the two or more base member means are
secured in an angular orientation from 0 to 180.degree., an
impenetrable target plate means having a front surface, rear
surface and side surface affixed to the support member means on the
rear surface, a cross-member, two or more shockwave sensors means
adjacent the rear surface of the target plate means, wherein the
two or more shockwave sensor means detect a propagation of a
shockwave from a projectile strike on the front surface of the
impenetrable target plate means, and a power source means; at least
one electronic device means in communication with the one or more
target scoring device means.
35. The target scoring system of claim 34 wherein the system
further comprises one or more of a transmitter means, a receiver
means and a transceiver means.
36. The target scoring system of claim 34 further comprising a base
station means in communication with the one or more target scoring
device means.
37. The target scoring system of claim 36 wherein a processor means
converts data from the two or more shockwave sensor means into a
visual representation of a location of an impact location for a
projectile on a display screen means for the electronic device
means.
38. The target scoring system of claim 36 wherein the one or more
target scoring device means and the at least one electronic device
means are in wireless communication.
39. The target scoring system of claim 38 further comprising at
least one signal booster means in communication with the one or
more target scoring device means.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part application of
Ser. No. 14/522,344 filed Oct. 23, 2014, which is a
continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 14/154,131 filed Jan. 13, 2014,
which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, and
to which application priority under 35 USC .sctn.120 is claimed.
This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 62/111,527 filed Feb. 3, 2015, Ser. No.
61/825,981 filed May 21, 2013, and Ser. No. 61/831,594 filed
Aug.28, 2013, which applications are incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a devices, systems and
methods for electronic evaluation of shots fired at a target in a
shooting range and, more particularly, to targets, target systems
and methods of use for electronically evaluating the shots fired at
a target in a shooting range.
[0003] Various target shooting systems exist for analyzing the
accuracy of the shot from a firearm to a target. The mechanism by
which currently available target shooting systems work varies
widely. Other than the standard target shooting equipment, e.g., a
target and a firearm, currently available solutions typically
require some sort of additional, special equipment. Moreover,
currently available solutions lack versatility, portability, the
ability to store shot information given a set of user-selected
criteria (type of firearm, ammunition, distance, etc.) or the
ability to synchronize multiple shooters with multiple targets, all
on a commonly used electronic device such as an iPad.RTM..
[0004] Cardboard or paper targets are most commonly used at firing
ranges for training persons in the use of firearms. Such targets
are also used at military and police firing ranges to allow
soldiers and police officers to maintain and improve their
marksmanship skills. Typically, shooters will point the firearm
towards a paper target, aim, and then shoot. Then, the shooter
physically walks to the target and write down the scores with a pen
and notepad; or the target is propelled towards the shooter.
Alternatively, an observer must either be stationed close to the
target or be provided with an expensive spotting scope to advise
the marksman of progress. Such an approach subjects the shooter or
observer to some danger and in the example of using an observer,
requires a second dedicated person to train shooting skills.
[0005] Accordingly, there is a need for a target and/or shooting
experience to eliminate the risks and time associated with
physically walking to the target or observing the target to
determine the accuracy of the results.
[0006] Even where a conveyer system is used to retrieve the target
to avoid the risk of physically entering the shooting range, time
is required to log the hits and additional time is spent waiting
for the physical target to be conveyed to the shooter for
evaluation.
[0007] As noted below, there are several companies that make
electronic target systems using wired solutions and very basic
proprietary computer systems. For example, some computer software
used in such systems uses a very basic bulls-eye design or animal
silhouettes and produces a score down to the tenth (e.g., 9.4 out
of 10.0). Some of these computer systems are used by competitive
shooters, avid hunters, military and law enforcement. There are
also wireless technologies that allow an electronic target to
communicate with a receiver and computer to display the shots on a
target. The computer systems used in existing wireless technology
consists of a prohibitively expensive, bulky, steel cased, rugged
computer monitor that attaches to a Pelican Case that houses a
receiver and large battery. The case is large and bulky as well.
(see, e.g.,
http://www.kongsberg-ts.no/en/index.php?pageiD=28&slideid=11).
[0008] In one currently available target system, acoustical
measurements are used to determine the location of the impact of a
bullet. As with other currently available systems, the targets are
large, cumbersome and employ a special proprietary computer, not a
personal mobile device.
[0009] Another target system uses several infrared sensors in
conjunction with five microphones. The infrared sensors provide
very accurate positioning in the bulls-eye area and the microphones
cover the outer range.
[0010] SIUS AG (www.sius.com) provides an electronic scoring system
such as the SA941 system or S110 system, which provides electronic
results real-time to a shooter at a shooting range. The system can
accommodate multiple shooters in multiple lanes and provide results
to spectators via monitors. The system uses a LON-bus based wired
communication and measures the shot's impact using only
microphones. Particular equipment must be used depending on the
type of weapon (e.g., caliber) and ammunition. The LS10 Laserscore
available from SIUS AG, is a target for airguns that uses infrared
laser measurement to determine the location of the strike or
impact. However, the target range must be specially equipped to
provide such request real-time and the results are transmitted to
specially programmed computer systems.
[0011] In addition to laser or acoustic determination, electronic
targeting systems can detect and evaluate the holes shot in the
vicinity of a target electro-optically, or detected in other ways,
in order to establish the positions of the holes in relation to a
target or targets.
[0012] While other target products are currently available, none of
the currently available systems or devices solve the portability,
ease of use and accuracy problem. Accordingly, there is a need for
target systems that can provide time and cost savings with
real-time feedback regarding hits. Suitable system would be
configurable to work with a variety of projectiles and firearms
without changing the equipment or setup, and are also economical,
reusable and accurate. Systems should be portable such that an
individual can rely upon using his or her own target for
consistency, that does not require specialty set-up that may be
prone to human error, increases safety for the user by eliminating
the need to enter a live firing range to check targets, provides
data storage of shot information, analysis and aggregation, and may
be used with a standard mobile computing device such as an iOS or
Android-based smartphone or tablet.
SUMMARY
[0013] The disclosure is directed to target scoring devices. Target
scoring devices comprise: a frame having two or more base members,
a support member and a locking mechanism about which the two or
more base members and the support member rotate through a range of
180.degree.; a securement device which secures the frame in a
configuration where the support member and the two or more base
members are secured in an angular orientation from 0 to
180.degree.; an impenetrable target plate having a front surface,
rear surface and side surface affixed to the support member on the
rear surface; a cross-member; two or more shockwave sensors
adjacent the rear surface of the target plate, wherein the two or
more shockwave sensors detect a vibration signature from a
propagation of a shockwave from a projectile strike on the front
surface of the impenetrable target plate; and a power source. In
some configurations, the range of rotation can be a range of up to
about 360.degree.. The two or more vibration sensors are affixable
to the rear surface of the target plate, or can be incorporated
into the target plate. Additionally, the target scoring devices can
include: a handle, a vertical support mount, a rear plate, an
enclosure shield, and one or more additional cross-members. A
vibration isolation device can also be provided which is positioned
between the impenetrable target plate and the support member. One
or more of a transmitter, a receiver and a transceiver can be
provided which are configurable to be in communication with the two
or more shockwave sensors. The one or more transmitter and
transceiver transmits data from the two or more vibration sensors
to an electronic device wherein the electronic device processes
data from the two or more vibration sensors to determine a position
of the projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable
target plate and presents a location on user interface.
Additionally, a target overlay can be provided wherein the target
overlay is positioned on at least a portion of the front surface of
the impenetrable target plate. The target overlay can be made of
any suitable material. Additionally, in some configurations, the
impenetrable target plate comprises an impenetrable transparent
material and further wherein the target scoring device comprises an
electronic display positioned adjacent the rear surface of the
impenetrable target plate. In some configurations, an electric
motor is provided wherein the electric motor changes an orientation
between the support member and the two or more base members between
the angular orientation of from 0 to 180.degree..
[0014] Another aspect of the disclosure is directed to target
scoring systems. Target scoring systems comprise: one or more
target scoring devices comprising a frame having two or more base
members, a support member and a locking mechanism about which the
two or more base members and the support member rotate through a
range of 180.degree., a securement device which secures the frame
in a configuration where the support member and the two or more
base members are secured in an angular orientation from 0 to
180.degree., an impenetrable target plate having a front surface,
rear surface and side surface affixed to the support member on the
rear surface, a cross-member, two or more shockwave sensors
adjacent the rear surface of the target plate, wherein the two or
more shockwave sensors detect a propagation of a shockwave from a
projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target
plate, and a power source; at least one electronic device in
communication with the one or more target scoring devices. The
system is further configurable to comprise one or more of a
transmitter, a receiver and a transceiver. A base station can be
provided which is in communication with the one or more target
scoring devices. One or more processors are provided which converts
data from the two or more shockwave sensors into a visual
representation of a location of an impact location for a projectile
on a display screen for the electronic device. The one or more
target scoring devices and the at least one electronic device are
configurable to be are in wireless communication. Additionally one
or more signal boosters can be provided which are in communication
with the one or more target scoring devices.
[0015] Still another aspect of the disclosure are directed to
methods of target scoring. Methods comprise: displaying on a user
interface display, via a user computing device, a target; receiving
data acquired by a target scoring device comprising a projectile
impact location wherein the projectile impact location is
determined from an analyzed vibration signature of a projectile
impact at the target scoring device; and providing, via the user
interface, an indicator of the projectile impact location.
Additionally, the methods includes compiling data received from the
target scoring device to determine one or more of: accuracy,
overall score, ranking, shot number, and round. Additionally, the
method can include accepting a data input from a user wherein the
data input comprises one or more of a weapon type, and an
ammunition type. In some configurations, the methods include
generating a representation of cumulative performance for the
user.
[0016] Yet another aspect of the disclosure is directed to target
scoring apparatuses. Suitable scoring apparatuses comprise: a user
computing device configured to: display on a user interface
display, via a user computing device, a target; receive data
acquired by a target scoring device comprising a projectile impact
location wherein the projectile impact location is determined from
an analyzed vibration signature of a projectile impact at the
target scoring device; and provide, via the user interface, an
indicator of the projectile impact location. The target scoring
apparatus further comprises compiling data received from the target
scoring device to determine one or more of: accuracy, overall
score, ranking, shot number, and round. The target scoring
apparatus can further comprises accepting a data input from a user
wherein the data input comprises one or more of a weapon type, and
an ammunition type. In some configurations, the target scoring
apparatus can further comprise generating a representation of
cumulative performance for the user.
[0017] Additional aspects of the disclosure include machine
readable medium containing instructions that, when executed by a
computing device, cause the computing device to perform a method,
the method comprising: displaying on a user interface display, via
a user computing device, a target; receiving data acquired by a
target scoring device comprising a projectile impact location
wherein the projectile impact location is determined from an
analyzed vibration signature of a projectile impact at the target
scoring device; and providing, via the user interface, an indicator
of the projectile impact location.
[0018] Still other aspects of the disclosure are directed to target
scoring device means comprising: a frame means having two or more
base members means, a support member means and a means for locking
about which the two or more base members means and the support
member means rotate through a range of 180.degree.; a securement
device means which secures the frame means in a configuration where
the support member means and the two or more base members means are
secured in an angular orientation from 0 to 180.degree.; an
impenetrable target plate means having a front surface, rear
surface and side surface affixed to the support member means on the
rear surface; a cross-member means; two or more shockwave sensors
means adjacent the rear surface of the target plate means, wherein
the two or more shockwave sensors means are configurable to detect
a vibration signature from a propagation of a shockwave from a
projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target
plate means; and a power source means. In some configurations, the
two or more vibration sensors means are affixed to the rear surface
of the target plate means. Additional aspects include one or more
of: a handle means, a vertical support mount means, a rear plate
means, an enclosure shield means, and one or more additional
cross-members means. The target scoring device means can further
comprise a vibration isolation device means positioned between the
impenetrable target plate means and the support member means. In
still other configurations one or more of a transmitter means, a
receiver means and a transceiver means can be provided wherein the
one or more transmitter means, receiver means and transceiver means
are in communication with the two or more shockwave sensors means.
The one or more transmitter means and transceiver means can further
be configurable to transmit data from the two or more vibration
sensors means to an electronic device means wherein the electronic
device means processes data from the two or more vibration sensors
means to determine a position of the projectile strike on the front
surface of the impenetrable target plate means and presents a
location on user interface means. A target overlay means may be
provided wherein the target overlay means is positioned on at least
a portion of the front surface of the impenetrable target plate
means. The impenetrable target plate means can further comprise an
impenetrable transparent material and further wherein the target
scoring device means comprises an electronic display means
positioned adjacent the rear surface of the impenetrable target
plate means. An electric motor means can be provided wherein the
electric motor means changes an orientation between the support
member means and the two or more base members means between the
angular orientation of from 0 to 180.degree..
[0019] Yet another aspect of the disclosure is directed to a target
scoring system. Suitable systems comprise: one or more target
scoring device means comprising a frame means having two or more
base member means, a support member means and a means for locking
about which the two or more base members means and the support
member means rotate through a range of 180.degree., a securement
device means which secures the frame means in a configuration where
the support member means and the two or more base member means are
secured in an angular orientation from 0 to 180.degree., an
impenetrable target plate means having a front surface, rear
surface and side surface affixed to the support member means on the
rear surface, a cross-member, two or more shockwave sensors means
adjacent the rear surface of the target plate means, wherein the
two or more shockwave sensor means detect a propagation of a
shockwave from a projectile strike on the front surface of the
impenetrable target plate means, and a power source means; at least
one electronic device means in communication with the one or more
target scoring device means. Additionally, the system further
comprises one or more of a transmitter means, a receiver means and
a transceiver means. In some configurations a base station means
can be provided which is in communication with the one or more
target scoring device means. Additionally, a processor means
converts data from the two or more shockwave sensor means into a
visual representation of a location of an impact location for a
projectile on a display screen means for the electronic device
means. In some configurations, the one or more target scoring
device means and the at least one electronic device means are in
wireless communication. The target scoring system can also comprise
at least one signal booster means in communication with the one or
more target scoring device means.
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
[0020] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned
in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the
same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent
application was specifically and individually indicated to be
incorporated by reference. References include, U.S. Patent and
Publication Nos. US 2012/0194802 A1 to Walti-Herter published Aug.
2, 2012 for Method for Electronically Determining The Shooting
Position On A Shooting Target; US 2002/027190 A1 to Helak,
published Mar. 7, 2002 for Device for Electronic Targeting
Evaluation of Shots Fired On A Shooting Range; U.S. Pat. No.
4,204,683 A to Filippini et al. issued May 27, 1980, for Device and
Method for Detection of the Shots on a Target from a Distance; U.S.
Pat. No. 4,514,621 A to Knight et al. issued Apr. 30, 1985 for
Firing Range; U.S. Pat. No. 4,763,903 A to Goodwin et al. issued
Aug. 16, 1988, for Target Scoring and Display System and Method;
U.S. Pat. No. 4,949,972 A to Goodwin et al. issued Aug. 21, 1990,
for Target Scoring and Display System; U.S. Pat. No. 5,092,607 A to
Ramsay et al. issued Mar. 3 1992, for Ballistic Impact Indicator;
U.S. Pat. No. 5,577,733 A to Downing issued Nov. 26, 1996, for
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2, 2007, for Video Recording Device for a Targetable Weapon; US
2002/0171924 A1 to Varner et al. published Nov. 21, 2002 for
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Sep. 25, 2003, for Photographic Firearm Apparatus and Method; US
2004/0029642 A1 to Akano published Feb. 12, 2004, for Target
Practice Laser Transmitting/Receiving System, Target Practice Laser
Transmitter, and Target Practice Laser Receiver; US 2005/0002668 A1
to Gordon published Jan. 6, 2005, for Photographic Firearm
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2006, for A Method and System to Display Shooting-Target and
Automatic-Identify Last Hitting Point by Digital Image Processing;
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] The novel features of the invention are set forth with
particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the
features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained
by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth
illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention
are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:
[0022] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of a process for processing
information received from a projectile;
[0023] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram of a process for processing
information on a mobile computing device;
[0024] FIGS. 3A-D are views of a mobile, collapsible target
stand;
[0025] FIGS. 4A-4C are front, top and side views of a mobile,
collapsible target stand;
[0026] FIGS. 5A-5D are top and side views of a target stand in a
collapsed configuration;
[0027] FIGS. 6A-6D are front, side and perspective views of a
target stand; FIG. 6D also shows detail of a target plate and frame
mounting;
[0028] FIGS. 7A-C are views of a silicon vibration dampener that
separates the target plate from the frame;
[0029] FIGS. 8A-8F are views of the alternative embodiment of the
mobile, collapsible target stand;
[0030] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplar target range setup;
[0031] FIG. 10 illustrates another alternative portable target and
stand embodiment;
[0032] FIG. 11 depicts a triangulation strike technique for
determining strike location of a projectile hitting the target;
[0033] FIG. 12 illustrates an arrangement signal transceivers in
communication with multiple targets;
[0034] FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplar alternative sensor position
and strike determination method;
[0035] FIG. 14A illustrates an exemplar visual display of strike
results;
[0036] FIG. 14B illustrates another exemplary visual display of
strike results;
[0037] FIG. 15 illustrates comparative results for three shooters
during an exemplar practice as illustrated on a screen of a
computing device;
[0038] FIG. 16 illustrates a an exemplary result for a single
shooter as illustrated on a screen of a computing device;
[0039] FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplar target shape which includes
wired and wireless signal options with sensor placement;
[0040] FIG. 18 illustrates an alternative target shape which has a
matrix style sensor placement;
[0041] FIG. 19 illustrates an exemplar virtual training
platform;
[0042] FIGS. 20A-20B illustrate a self-healing target that is
mountable on a collapsible target;
[0043] FIGS. 21A-21B is a perspective view of the self-healing
mountable target shown in FIGS. 20A-20B; and
[0044] FIG. 22 depicts an example of the information data path for
a networked collapsible target and analysis system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0045] Disclosed are systems and devices that include a target
system with at least one target, at least one target stand, at
least one transmitter, at least one receiver that is typically the
base-station and not a mobile device, a plurality of sensors, and a
target computer. The target can be removably connectable to the
stand. The disclosed target devices are removable, collapsible,
storable, portable, and combinations thereof. Sensors are
connectable to the target devices and in communication with a
computing device such that a target strike is registered or
detected by one or more sensors and information detected by the
sensor detailing the strike, for example, the location and the
force of the strike is determined. The target computer can be
located proximate the sensors such that the information may be
communicated wirelessly, wired, or otherwise. Alternatively, the
target computer need not be near the sensors. Rather the sensors
may interface directly with a mobile device application that is
positioned a distance away from the target system and associated
sensors. A target computer is configurable to interact with an
application programming interface (API) on a mobile device. The
target system can include at least one transmitter and one receiver
or a transceiver which includes both transmitting and receiving
functions, where the transmitter or transceiver transmits data from
one or more sensors directly or indirectly to another device and
the receiver or transceiver receives data from one or more sensors.
Where sensor data is transmitted indirectly, the target computer is
also the transmitter. The transceiver can transmit data to a base
station which is positioned near the shooter and will relay the
strike or impact data to the mobile device of the shooter
wirelessly, for example, via Bluetooth. Alternatively, local area
wireless computer networking technology (WiFi), radio frequency
identification (RF), or infrared (IR) wireless data transfer can be
used.
[0046] In one example, data can originate from the target when the
target is struck by a projectile such as a bullet. Thereafter) the
data can be sent via long-range wireless radio communication to a
"base station" or relay device. Once the base station receives the
long-range communication it then relays the data via a short range
communication signal (Bluetooth Low Energy) to the shooter's mobile
computing device. Once the mobile computing device receives the
data, the computing device then calculates where the impact
occurred and displays a representation of the location on a virtual
bulls eye on the screen of the mobile computing device. The shot
data (including other variables like type of gun, ammunition,
optics, weather, personal information, time, date, elevation,
position, etc.) can also be detected and/or stored locally on the
mobile device until user is within range of cellular or WiFi
service for further transmission of the data. Shot data (and
ancillary data) is can be uploaded to a central database, which is
hosted on a suitable cloud computing service such as Amazon web
services. Once the data is provided to a centralized database,
users can then log into a website to review the shot data, and can
manipulate their shot data, share it, compare it, etc.
[0047] In some configurations, the transmitter is capable of
communicating with more than one transceiver or receiver, base
station, or mobile device. For example, the data may be conveyed to
multiple base stations or multiple mobile devices for purposes of
real-time monitoring of all shooters in a competition. Unique
target identification information is conveyed to the mobile device.
The API can perform a determination regarding the whether the
target identification correlates to the shooter or whether it is a
target of another shooter. In one embodiment, a target ID may be
scanned at the beginning of a shooting session. Near field
communication (NFC) technology can be used to scan a target ID for
example, or a bar code, QR code or the like may be used.
[0048] In some configurations, the target system includes an
electric motor with a wireless receiver connected with at least one
target to move the target wirelessly in the X, Y, and Z axis, or
any combination of directions.
[0049] Additionally, the target can comprise multiple target
plates, in others the target is a single piece. The target itself
is portable, reusable and/or foldable such that a shooter can take
the target with them to any suitable location. Alternatively, the
target can also be disassembled into smaller components. The target
is manufactured of a material that renders the target reusable,
such as a steel. However, portions of the target can be made of
different materials without departing from the scope of the
disclosure. Additionally, the target can include or be made of a
rubber material which is "self-healing", meaning that a property of
the material, such as its elasticity, is such that a hole through
the target appears to close without any action by the user.
Alternatively, the target may be a steel target coated with a
self-healing material, such as a urethane or aramid fiber
(Kevlar.RTM.) impregnated rubber, that when punctured closes the
hole due to the density and elasticity of the material. For
example, the overlay may be made of urethane and mounted some
distance over a steel plate, for example AR500 armor grade. The
urethane may be made of several cuts of urethane that are adhered
together, for example by glue, a similar adhesive, or mechanically
attached to the target by use of a bolt. The targets, portions
thereof, or overlays of such targets can be made of materials such
as high molecular density rubber, paper, cardboard, plastic,
resins, and the like.
[0050] The sensors can be piezo-vibration sensors or
accelerometers. Other sensors may be used, without departing from
the scope of the disclosure, as would be appreciated by one of
ordinary skill in the art. Alternatively, microphones may be used
to indicate a surface strike on the target. One or more sensors may
be used. In at least some configurations, three sensors are used.
In other configurations, four sensors are used. As will be
appreciated by those skilled in the art, the number of sensors
provided can be proportionately and evenly distributed on a surface
of the target. The sensors can be photodiodes or a mixture of
accelerometers, piezo-vibration sensors and photodiodes.
[0051] The target system has a power source for operating any
components requiring power, such as computing components, or
sensors. In some configurations, the target system is battery
powered or solar powered for portability. Thus, each component
requiring a power source may be individually powered or may share a
portable power source as permitted by proximity.
[0052] Data related to the target and a projectile strike on the
target are conveyable to the shooter real-time. Data can be
conveyed via a mobile device, such as a mobile telephone, personal
computer, handheld device, iPad, iPhone, tablet computer, laptop,
notebook, ultrabook, Android phone, video game platform or other
personal computing device capable of wirelessly receiving such
data. Mobile devices are configurable to use an API to interface,
receive, display and store the impact or strike data. Such data can
be correlated with a number of other useful information, including
location, date, and time. Information may also be stored in a cloud
based database. In such cases the receiver is integrated with the
mobile device. The receiver can be a standard part of the mobile
device. Alternatively, the receiver can be integrated with a
detachable memory device, the transmitter is integrated with a
detachable memory device, or both. The personal mobile device can
also be in communication with a receiver proximate to a shooter,
wherein the mobile device and the receiver are associated by
wireless communication, for example, Bluetooth, RF, WiFi, IR, or
NFC.
[0053] The vibration sensors in some embodiments described herein
use a process called trilateration or multi-lateration to determine
impact information. Such a process uses at least three or more
vibration sensors. In another embodiment, a process of
triangulation or multi-angulation is used, where at least three
vibration sensors are used. In some embodiments herein, the
vibration sensors provide a unique vibration signature when
impacted by a projectile.
[0054] The vibration signatures include amplitude, phase,
frequency, frequency spectrum information, location, time, date,
and force of impact, for example. The target impact data may also
include a user-defined and assigned identifier. This identifier may
be an alphanumeric.
[0055] In some embodiments, the target systems can further comprise
a controller to receive vibration signatures corresponding to the
sensed vibrations to determine where the target has been impacted
by a projectile. Additionally, long-range wireless transmitters may
be coupled with the target and short-range wireless transmitters
may be couple with the personal mobile computing device configured
to virtually report real-time data on a virtual target relating to
the projectile impact. A second transmitter can also be provided,
but may not be required where the personal mobile computing device
receives the information directly.
[0056] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, there is
no limitation regarding the type of firearm or projectile that can
be used with the disclosed embodiments. Suitable firearms include
guns, handguns, rifles, slings, catapults, pellets, bb guns,
police-style crowd control rubber bullet guns, sand projective
weapons, and crossbows. Suitable projectiles include bullets,
arrows, paintball, darts, or an athletic ball.
[0057] Mobile applications used with the target system are
configurable to provide real-time impact information which includes
the impact of the projectile on the target relative to a target
design on a virtual target, wherein the mobile application
optionally determines a score from the impact based on an accuracy
algorithm and stored in a database.
[0058] For example, the mobile application can receive user input
comprising the type of weapon used during a particular session; the
type of ammunition used; the distance from the weapon to the
target; and weather conditions; wherein the mobile application
stores the score based on at least one such input. Some
information, such as weather, can be obtained from the mobile
device or from information provided to the mobile device from
another source.
[0059] The target system may be used as a virtual training platform
using a larger version of the target system, which may be steel,
self-healing rubber or another suitable material. The larger system
can accommodate a broader range of users, such as garners. Rather
than having the impact locations appear as bullet holes on a
virtual target screen, the impact data could interact with a
first-person shooter game. To accomplish this, an appropriate game,
like "Time Crisis 3" could be downloaded and run on an arcade
machine emulator (MAME) which can be used to communicate with the
game, e.g., Time Crisis 3. See,
{{http://www.mamedev.org/about.html}}. A conduit from the target
system to the game can be created by adding a peripheral to the
computer to project the game on the surface of the target, such as
a larger version of the target. The basic system allows the target
system to communicate X-Y coordinates of shot impacts to a personal
computer or similar computing device running a game or a virtual
training scenario, and projecting the visuals onto the target or
alternatively onto a screen in front of the target.
[0060] At a commercial range, shooters may be able to select
targets that may be static or reactive. Such systems may be
networked to allow for multiple players or shooters that may
compete in the same game system, which could display leaderboards
at the location or online. Audio may be fed into a local speaker or
into electronic ear protection. In one embodiment, players or
shooters can customize the experience, for example by taking photo
shots to upload into the game and may take video of themselves
shooting, either for diagnostic instruction or for social media.
Results on a per scenario basis could be saved in the system using
a virtual gun safe associated with online shooter profiles. Any
number of add-on packages with new games or scenarios could be used
with the gaming system, including customized packages using
users/shooters associated with the particular location, without
departing from the scope of the disclosure. A shooter/user may
virtually "travel" to a geographical location to experience the
game with users local to that location. For example, a user
originally from Boston, Mass. living in another location, such as
San Francisco, Calif., may virtually play a multi-user game with
other users from Boston or any other number of locations, and
thereby share the experience with friends in different
locations--or perhaps meet like-minded people in other locations.
Law enforcement/military may use such a projector system in virtual
training scenarios, similar to PriSim.RTM. high definition
interactive videos and games.
[0061] The virtual system the design may incorporate a sensor
array, for example an 8 sensor array mounted on a 4 `.times.3`
piece of 3/8'' AR500 steel. In some applications, a large target
display is preferable, for example, at least 6' in width, more
preferably at least 10' in width, such that the target is a
reasonable size at the minimum safe distance. A heavy duty target
stand sufficient to support the larger target may be used, for
example to support at least 150 lbs, more preferably at least 200
lbs, such that the mounted target experiences minimal movement
under the conditions. The screen can be a corrugated plastic
screen, such as Coroplast.RTM., which is configured to project an
image, thick enough to prevent rearward fragmentation and with a
sufficient strength and endurance for multiple hits, while
providing a lower cost to allow replacement between sessions. As
will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, other materials
may be used without departing from the scope of the disclosure. An
anti-fragmentation adhesive may be used around the perimeter of the
target plate to prevent deflection of materials into the
surrounding environment (e.g., lead, copper). The bottom of the
screen may be sloped or removable to allow for discharge.
[0062] An emulator running on a computing device may be used as an
alternative to customized software, though customized code may be
written for the application. The software preferably has
calibration settings allowing the user to setup the projector to
match the target size and distance. For example, the user may use a
test shot to align an actual strike point with a virtual strike
point. Alternatively, screen edges of the projection and the target
may be juxtaposed or with a suitable margin based on the user
preference. Typical aspect ratios may be used, such as 4'.times.3',
16'.times.9' or 16'.times.10'. Another calibration method may have
a user shoot each corner and a center point, using expected
geometry to correct for shooting inaccuracies. The calibration
preferably done through specialized code written for the target
system to calibrate based on input from the target and user.
Alternatively, the target system may calibrate through interaction
with a targeting device used by user. In such an alternative, the
system may use multiple inputs from the target strike, a targeting
device, and the like, the code further written to compensate for
environmental conditions impacting the calibration (e.g., wind).
Input commands may be ported over from a video game to match the
system output, for example, a strike point would be the equivalent
of a mouse click or the like. After such calibration, a user may
load a pre-configured game, such as the arcade game Time Crisis 3,
on a PC or other computing device and play.
[0063] FIG. 1 illustrates a flow diagram of certain steps of the
target system. A user, or a shooter, sets up the target system
where desired and the target system initiated by powering the
system. Alternatively the target power can be designed to turn on
as the target system is unfolded and setup. The portable target
system, as shown in FIG. 3, may be carried and set-up in a number
of remote environments, including any variety of shooting ranges.
Desirably, the portable target system allows the user to reduce
variables experienced at different ranges and use the same system,
capturing relevant shooting data for honing accuracy and shooting
skills. After the target is put in place, the user can locate
themselves at a desired distance as determined in a number of ways,
such as through a global position system (GPS) transceiver on the
target system. In one embodiment the user can launch a software
application on a computing device where a personal transceiver is
located. As shown in FIG. 1, after the target is impacted by a
projectile 101, the plurality of sensors register the impact and
send the impact data to the target computer 102 located proximate
the target and sensors. In at least some configurations, at least
three sensors are provided on the target, still other
configurations have four sensors. As will be appreciated by those
skilled in the art, more sensors can be provided. Additional
sensors will result in greater precision, accuracy and better
identification of outlier signals resulting is a more accurate
measurement. Afterwards, the three or more sensors send impact data
to the target computer 102. Thereafter, the target computer
positioned proximate the target (i.e., nearer the user) processes
the raw impact data by converting the analog signal to a digital
signal, determines the coordinates of the impact location, and
transmits the data package to the target transceiver 103, which is
proximate the target computer and target. Alternatively, the
coordinates may be calculated by a mobile computer device. The
sensors may be hardwired or data may be transmitted electronically
to the target transceiver and sent to the target computer for
processing. The target transceiver wirelessly transmits the
coordinates of the particular impact to the personal transceiver
105 proximate the shooter/user and/or to an observer, judge or
other interested party with a transceiver configured to receive
such information. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the
art, the transceiver 105 can be replaced by separate transmitting
and receiving components without departing from the scope of the
disclosure. In some configurations the target computer and target
transceiver are located together and attached to the target 104. As
will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a single
transceiver can be used for both the personal transceiver 106
function and the target transceiver 105, thus eliminating an
intermediate relay. Additionally, in some configurations, the step
of wirelessly transmitting impact data by the target transceiver
105 and by the personal transceiver 106 can be combined. This would
allow elimination of an intermediate transceiver. The personal
transceiver can be configured to send impact data wirelessly, such
as via Bluetooth, to one or more of the user's personal mobile
computing device 106. The personal mobile computing device can be
any suitable mobile computing device, such as an iPad, smartphone
(e.g., Android device or iPhone), laptop, tablet, or the like. In
an alternative embodiment the personal transceiver may be part of
the mobile computer device. Where the personal transceiver is
integrated with the mobile computing device, wireless transmission
is not necessarily preferred. Multiple devices may receive the data
from the personal transceiver. In an embodiment the personal
transceiver is located in one mobile computing device and may
transmit to other mobile computing devices enabled to receive the
information. The mobile computing device receiving the data can
then process the data to display information relating to the
impact, including in some embodiments displaying where the impact
occurred on a virtual target simulating the actual target 107.
[0064] FIG. 2 illustrates processing of information received by a
mobile computing device. Once turned on and in communication with
the target transceiver, the mobile computing device receives the
impact data from the personal transceiver 201. A mobile software
application may be used to process the data received and then to
display, for example, the location of the impact on a virtual
target on screen which simulates the location of the actual impact
on the actual target 202. A large amount of data can also be
provided for each impact which may be accessed by the user by
scrolling through a database log of raw data or, if a touch screen
is used, by touching a desired impact designation on the virtual
display. The user may also customize the mobile application to
embed and display information that is important to the user. Such
information can include, for example, a calculated measure of
accuracy or a measure of skill that may consider the level of
difficulty in addition to the accuracy, where the level of
difficulty may be a function of a number of factors such as weather
conditions such as the level of wind or visibility, the distance
compared with the weapon, and other variables, including but not
limited to ballistic coefficient, distance to target, weapon type
and modifications, time elapsed between each shot, number of shots,
ammunition type, elevation difference between target and shooter,
stationary or moving target, shooter's stance (prone, kneeling,
standing), shooter's support (bench rest, sling, bipod, etc.),
weapon sights (magnification, windage and elevation settings,
reticle (MIL size versus minute of angle (MOA)), and brand). The
mobile software application may synchronize the shot performance,
data and the shooter/user profile with an online database for
comparative analysis and storage of the results 203. Additionally,
data may be saved in a database, such as a relational database, for
searching and data manipulation at a later time 204. Stored data
may be used in a shooting series competition. Data can also be
manipulated, reviewed and/or shared at a later time.
[0065] FIGS. 3A-D illustrates an embodiment of a portable and
collapsible target and frame system 300 in a deployed
configuration. FIG. 3A is a perspective view, FIG. 3B is a front
view, FIG. 3C is a top view, and FIG. 3D is a side view. The target
and frame system 300 can be folded and/or disassembled. Folding and
disassembly allows the target and frame system 300 to be easily
carried by a user to a variety of locations where the user may wish
to use the target system. The target includes a target plate 310,
or strike plate which receives an impact from a projectile. The
target plate 310 is a solid impregnable panel having a front
surface 312, a rear surface 314 and at least one side surface 316,
wherein the target plate 310 is positioned substantially within a
plane. The target plate 310 is made of a material conducive to
target shooting. In one embodiment the target plate 310 is made of
AR500 steel which is a quenched and tempered steel that is
resistant to abrasion and suitable for severe impact. Other
materials, such as AR300 or AR550, may be used depending on the
relative force being applied by the projectile on the surface,
which is a function of the fire power of the device being used.
Suitable dimensions for the target plate 310 can be, for example,
18 inches in height by 18 inches width with 3/8.sup.th of an inch
in thickness. Other dimensions can be used without departing from
the scope of the disclosure. Other exemplar sizes include, 12
inches.times.12 inches.times.3/8 inch up to about 60
inches.times.60 inches.times.1/2 inch. Targets can, but need not,
be square.
[0066] A rubberized or polyethylene coating may be applied to the
target plate 310. For targets to be functional and safe, the target
plate should be made of a material with a Brinell hardness number
(BHN) of at least 500, preferably at least 550, more preferably at
least 600. The material must also provide sufficient strength,
toughness, and impact resistance. Other suitable materials are
Heflin R.E.M. 500.RTM. steel. If the hardness of the material is
excessive, the target plate 310 formed from such material may be
too hard and too brittle for use in a ballistic training
application. For example a BHN of 700 would not be suitable for a
target plate 310. Additionally, steel with a smooth, flat surface
is used for the target to dissipate the projectile's energy for a
longer lasting target.
[0067] The target plate 310 is connected to a frame which includes
a base 320 and a target plate supporting member 340. The base 320
and target plate supporting member 340 can be made of a low carbon
steel such as mild steel (AISI grades 1005 through 1025) in some
embodiments and configured to present a streamlined or minimal face
toward the shooter to avoid dangerous ricochets to minimize risk
and unpredictable splatter. The base 320 has two longitudinal base
members 322, 322' with one or more cross-members 324 connecting the
two longitudinal base members 322, 322' in a parallel or partially
parallel orientation. The target plate 310 is configurable to pivot
about an axis x at joint 328 with a locking mechanism, for example,
a removable locking pin 318 or spring lock. The target plate 310
pivots about the axis x so that the shooter may setup the target
and frame system 300 on an uneven surface but adjust the base 320
of the target stand to present a flat face from the perspective of
the shooter.
[0068] One or more impact sensors 304 may be positioned on or
adjacent a rear surface 314 of the target plate 310. A minimum of
three impact sensors 304 are suitable for most location determining
purposes, four sensors are preferable, and, as will be appreciated
by those skilled in the art, accuracy of the target and frame
system 300 continues to increase as the number of impact sensors
304 provided increase. The target plate 310 has a locking mechanism
350 which facilitates moving the target plate 310 from a position
that is parallel to the base 320 of the target stand to a position
that is not parallel to the stand and then locking the target plate
310 in position. One way the target plate 310 may be locked in
place after pivoting and adjusting from the parallel position to a
preferred position is to use a removable locking pin 318 that both
allows the front surface 312 of the target plate 310 to be
optimally positioned and secured for target practice but also
allows for secure storage when folded or carried by a user.
[0069] The target and frame system 300 may be stored flat to
minimize the footprint for the target. In one embodiment of the
locking mechanism 350, an enclosure shield 326 is provided which is
positioned connectively between the two longitudinal base members
322, 322'. The enclosure shield 326 shields the target and frame
system 300 electronics 330 from, for example, stray bullet fire or
splatter. The electronics 330 may be placed in a variety of
locations. For example, the electronics 330 can be positioned
behind the target plate 310 and thus protected by the enclosure
shield 326. Once the target and frame system 300 are set in a
desirable location with a target orientation of the target plate
310, the target and frame system 300 may be secured in place. One
way to secure the frame is to pass stakes (not shown) through
apertures 308, 308' in the longitudinal base members 322, 322' in
the frame.
[0070] The locking mechanism 350 can have a semicircular form 342
with one or more apertures 344, 344'. Side arms 340, 340' that
engage the target plate 310 engage the longitudinal base members
322, 322 at the semicircular form 342 locking mechanism 350 such
that the target plate 310 and side arms 340, 340' rotate about an
axis x. A removable locking pin 318 is provided which is passed
through an aperture in the side arm when the aperture lines up with
one of the apertures 344, 344' of the locking mechanism 350 to
secure the target plate in a position relative to the longitudinal
base members 322, 322'. As will be appreciated by those skilled in
the art, the target plate 310 can be locked in a position that is
parallel to the two longitudinal base members 322, 322' or in a
position that is not parallel, e.g. a position that is 90.degree.
from a plane in which the longitudinal members are substantially
positioned. Other orientations can be used without departing from
the scope of the disclosure, including greater or less than
90.degree.. Additionally, the two longitudinal base members may be
positioned within a plane in some use configurations. However,
depending on the terrain, the two longitudinal base members may not
always be positioned substantially within a plane.
[0071] FIGS. 4A-C illustrate a target and frame system 300 in a
collapsed configuration. FIG. 4A is a top planar view; FIG. 4B is a
side view from the position where the top of the target plate 310
is adjacent an end of the two longitudinal base members 322, 322';
and FIG. 4C is a side view from which the locking mechanism 350 is
visible. As can be seen in this configuration a handle 370 can be
provided which facilitates transporting the target and frame system
300.
[0072] FIGS. 5A-D illustrate various views of the target and frame
system 300 in a closed position for carrying or storage. The
profile and footprint of the target and frame system can be
minimized in this position. The handle 370 can be used to carry the
target and frame system 300. Typically, a user will carry the
target and frame system 300 when the target is in the stowed
position (i.e., the target plate has been translated about the axis
so that it is parallel and flush with the base). The electronics
330 are shown positioned behind the front surface 312 of the target
plate 310 shown in FIG. 5C..
[0073] FIGS. 6A-D illustrate another embodiment of a target and
frame system 600. The target and frame system 600 has a pair of
base members 622, 622' which feature one or more transverse members
624 connecting the base members to each other. As will be
appreciated by those skilled in the art, the base members 622, 622'
can be parallel or be positioned such that the base members are
inclined in a direction towards each other, thus forming a
trapezoidal footprint. A target overlay 670 can be provided which
is configurable to engage the front surface of the target plate
610. One or more securement devices, such as clips 672 can be
provided which secure the target overlay 670 to the face of the
target plate 610. The target overlay 670 can be formed of any
suitable material including paper, cardboard, plastic, rubber,
wherein the target overly fits over at least a portion of the
target plate.
[0074] As with the prior embodiment, the target plate 610 engages
the base members 622, 622' rotatably about a locking mechanism 650
so that the target and frame system 600 can take on a substantially
flat form during transport and storage. From the section D in FIG.
6B shown in FIG. 6D, the target plate 610 engages the frame 640 via
a center bushing mount with a dampener 674 positioned between the
target plate 610 and the frame 640. The dampener 674 is formed from
a high dampening material, such as neoprene rubber, such as center
bushing mount 60220 available from Tech Products. Additionally, the
target plate 610 can provide a threaded post 678 which passes
through an aperture in the frame 640. A nut 680 defining a threaded
aperture therethrough can be provided which engages the threaded
post 678. As shown, the target plate 610 is separated from the
frame 640 by a first dampener 674. Thereafter a second dampener 676
can be provided, followed by a washer 682 and then the nut 680,
which can be threaded. By isolating the target plate 610 from
externally induced vibration, the detected signal is free from
internal impedance to that external source which increases the
accuracy of the sensors detecting a strike on the target plate.
[0075] FIGS. 7A-C illustrate a sensor 700 which is configurable to
be adhered to the rear surface of the target plate. The sensor can
be fit within a protective housing. Also illustrated is an aperture
712 within a vibration bushing 710. Wires 702, 704 are provided
which enable the sensor to be powered.
[0076] FIGS. 8A-F illustrate additional variations that can be made
to components of the target and frame system of FIG. 3. The target
and frame system 800 has a target plate 810 and is configurable to
be collapsible and transportable. The locking mechanism 850 can be
a wheel, or a semicular portion of a wheel with teeth 844, 844'
which provides a series surface to engage a pin 842 in order to
secure the target plate 810 in an angular orientation to the base
of the target and frame system 800. The base member 822 can have a
1-shaped slotted opening which engages a fastener from the locking
mechanism 850, to allow the base member 822 and the target plate
810 to rotate. As shown in FIG. 8C, the target plate 810 engages
the frame 840 with a dampener 874 positioned between the target
plate 810 and the frame 840. Additionally, the target plate 810 can
provide a threaded post 878 which passes through an aperture in the
frame 840. A nut 880 defining a threaded aperture therethrough, or
other suitable securement device, can be provided which engages the
threaded post 878. As shown, the target plate 810 is separated from
the frame 840 by a first dampener 874. Thereafter a second dampener
876 can be provided, followed by a washer and then the nut 880. As
will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the function of
the first and second dampener can be a achieved using a single
dampener.
[0077] FIG. 8D illustrates a rear view of the target and frame
system 800. The target plate 810 has a flange 890 extending
therefrom (shown extending from the lower surface of the target
plate). The flange can have a cutout 892 that is sized to engage a
support member, such as a 2.times.4 898 shown in FIG. 8F. A cap 898
can be provided which defines a cavity into which an end of the
2.times.4 fits.
[0078] Additionally, a plate 896 can be provided which covers an
opening 897 in a back panel to create a space between the frame and
the target plate. The plate 896 can be formed from an isolation
material, such as rubber, to provide an area to suspend
electronics, where the electronics are protected from vibration and
damage. The plate 896 can also be formed of a rigid material that
holds fasteners firmly. The electronics can be mounted on either
side of the plate 896, with the wires passing through the space in
the
[0079] In some configurations, the face or front surface of the
target plate can be constructed of a material that is both
bulletproof and transparent, such as an optically clear poly
carbonate material or aluminum oxynitride (sold commercially as
ALON.RTM. available from Surmet). Where the target plate is
constructed of a material that is bulletproof and transparent, a
computer display can be positioned behind the target plate. Where
the computer display is positioned behind the target plate, the
computer display can be instructed to present a large number of
characters, shapes, figures, fictitious images, historical images,
and more to a user during a session. The images depicted may move
on or across the display for reactive target practice. In some
embodiments, the shooter may upload any number of video files or
photographs to make the experience more challenging and/or
entertaining. In such an embodiment, a generated score from each
impact is configured to be a factor of the situation displayed. For
example, a situational simulation may be uploaded and displayed to
challenge the shooter's reaction time and judgment. In other
embodiments, real-life training modules may be used to simulate
scenarios and score the user based on a number of factors in how to
best react to the particular scenario. The user may upload and
control the display from the mobile computer system which can
record the simulated scenario and the user's reaction for later
playback, demonstration, discussion and comparison. Alternately,
the display may be projected on a target face from a forward
position or a position on the target frame. In these embodiments
the figure, simulation or other depiction may be transferred
wirelessly from the mobile computer. Alternatively, the target
computer may be programmed with such video depictions and
simulations. In another embodiment the target computer has a port,
such as a universal serial bus (USB) port for media interface. A
solid state memory can be used with the target computer to avoid
the risk of damage and data loss. The target computer in some
embodiments can interface with an external computer or hard drive
for backup storage. In some embodiments the target computer can
backup information wirelessly to a connected mobile computer or
database that is not local to the target computer, for example,
through the internet. Alternatively, the database may be
cloud-based storage.
[0080] FIG. 9 is a simplified depiction of a target system wherein
the target system includes a target 922 with a target face 926
having a target pattern 936 displayed thereon. The target 922 is
oriented such that a projectile 932 from a firearm 930 will travel
along a path 935 towards the target 922. Once the projectile 932
reaches the target 922, the projectile will impact the target 922
at an impact location 934 and then ricochet off the surface of the
target 922 in a safe manner toward the ground or away from the
shooter as depicted by projectile path 928. In an alternate
embodiment the target 922 may be mounted on a vertical stand 924
that is adjustable in height. The vertical stand 924 may have a
stabilized base (not shown) or may be implanted into a soft surface
such as in the ground. A suitable firearm 930, such as rifle or
other means of conveying a projectile, is used at a location that
is separated from the target 922 by a suitable distance d. The
distance d between the user and the target will depend in part on
the type of firearm used and the skill of the user. Upon impact,
for example at impact location 934, the sensors are configurable to
send impact information received as a result of the impact to the
signal processing circuit or the target computer positioned
proximate to the target system, which may be hardwired or
wirelessly in contact with the target sensors. A receiver 940 is
configured to receive the processed data via a signal processing
circuit 944 from the target computer and to then transmit the data
to the mobile computer 938 and the receiver which further processes
the data and provides a visual output 942 of the impact information
based on the circumstances and target program used.
[0081] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a substantially
planar target plate 1010 coupled to a support member 1024. Support
member 1024 includes a base 1044 and a pivot member 1046. The pivot
member 1046 is coupled to the base 1044. Mounts 1048, 1048' are
provided which are secured to a back planar surface 1050 of the
substantially planar target plate 1010 and to pivot member 1046.
Additionally, a plurality of sensors 1074, 1075, 1076, 1077 are
provided which are in contact with the back planar surface 1050 of
the substantially planar target plate 1010. Base 1044 includes a
cradle portion 1052 for pivot member 1046. Pivot member 1046 lies
in cradle portion 1052 such that when planar strike surface (not
shown) is struck by projectile (see, e.g., FIG. 9), substantially
planar target plate 1010 is permitted to rotate about a pivot axis
1054 established by the positioning of pivot member 1046 in cradle
portion 1052 of base 1044. The movement of substantially planar
target plate 1010 around pivot axis 1054 upon impact of projectile
(FIG. 9) dampens the force of the impact to allow for a smaller
ricochet proximity. This embodiment is particularly useful in less
open locations where the portable target system is setup. In this
embodiment, the target plate is removable from support member 1024
or removable from mounts 1048, 1048' to allow for compaction,
storage and easy transportation. Alternatively, the base of the
support member 1024 may be pivotally attached or removably attached
to the base 1044 at hinge 1090 and contact which may be a hinge
lock. As an alternative to a hinge 1090, the support member 1024
may be locked into place with a springloaded latching system (not
shown). A target computer and transceiver (not shown) can be
located behind strike plate (as shown in other configurations) to
protect the computer and transceiver from misfire. Alternatively a
back strike plate may be used to protect from ricochets and secure
the target computer and transceiver in place. Alternatively a top
strike plate (not shown) may be used to protect the top portion of
the target computer from ricochets.
[0082] Referring to FIG. 11, a rear surface view of substantially
planar target plate 1110 is shown with mounts 1148, 1148' secured
to back planar surface 1150. The substantially planar target plate
1110 has an upper edge 1156, a lower edge 1162, a first and second
side edge 1166, 1150. Where the substantially planar target plate
1110 is square, rectangular or trapezoidal, four corners 1170,
1160, 1168, 1164. Sensor assemblies 1174, 1175, 1176, 1177 (similar
to sensors 1074, 1075, 1076, 1077 from FIG. 10) are disposed on the
rear surface of the strike plate or incorporated into the
substantially planar target plate 1110. The strike surface on the
front surface of the substantially planar target plate 1110 and the
back surface are separated by a target depth. In one embodiment
configuration, first and second sensors 1174, 1175, respectively,
extend from back surface and are positioned near a first corner
1160 of the substantially planar target plate 1110. Likewise, a
third and fourth sensor 1176, 1177 extend from back planar surface
1150 and are positioned near a fourth corner 1170. First, second,
third, and fourth sensors 1174, 1175, 1176, 1177, respectively, may
be substantially equidistant from an approximate midpoint 1180 of
the substantially planar target plate 1110. A first baseline
distance 1182 between first and second sensors 1174, 1175 is less
than a first or second radial distance 1184, 1184' between the
first and second sensors 1174, 1175 and midpoint 1180. Likewise, a
second baseline distance 1186 between third and fourth sensors
1176, 1177 is less than radial distance 1185, 1185' between each of
third and fourth sensors 1176, 1177 and midpoint 1180. In this
example the sensors 1174, 1175, 1176, 1177 are equidistant from
midpoint 1180. In addition, each of the sensors are embedded at an
equal depth and not fully through the target plate to prevent
damage from a target strike by the projectile.
[0083] Sensors can be located in the top portion of the target
surface, as illustrated. The mounts 1148 and the pivot axis (see
1054 in FIG. 10) are positionable in the lower portion of the
substantially planar target plate 1110 to allow for the
substantially planar target plate 1110 to be positionable such that
the target plate leans forward (i.e., the position of the upper
edge 1156 is forward (towards the user) of the lower edge 1162).
Where the target plate is in a leaning forward position, any
projectile that hits the target plate will ricochet downward to the
ground. Dampening attachments may also be used to absorb some of
the impact force and limit the range of the ricochet. In such a
case, the strike force of the projectile reported to the shoot must
be adjusted by the absorbed force. Alternatively, the target plate
may be mounted on a pivoting connection, either a full pivot to
accommodate for uneven surfaces or only in the forward and back
direction to position the target facing downward. Such a pivot
connection preferably will have a pivot lock to lock the target
into position during the firing session.
[0084] Alternately, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 10 and 11,
the sensors may be located in other positions in or on the target
and need not be embedded in the target surface. For example, the
sensors could be positioned on the back surface of the target.
[0085] FIG. 12 illustrates exemplar signal paths from multiple
target systems to a variety of transceivers. In some embodiments,
the targets 1203, 1203', 1203'' have one or more sensors 1215,
1215', 1215'' to identify impacts from individuals 1223, 1224,
1225, 1225', 1125'', 1226, 1228, 1228'. In one embodiment the
signal and data from the target is transmitted to one or more
transceivers that can be shared by two shooters 1225, 1225', where
each shooter 1225, 1225' each have individual displays 1229, 1230.
In this embodiment two or more shooters can use the same target and
by sending a signal to the target the particular individual can
indicate which shooter is taking a turn for data parsing. In
another embodiment a universal transceiver 1222 can be used to
receive target data and signals from local target transceivers
1216, 1216', 1216'' of a plurality of target systems and parse the
signal to relay to the appropriate individuals, not limited to
shooters. For example spectators 1228 may receive the target data
to follow the results for shooters. Alternatively, an instructor or
competition officials or judges 1226 may receive target data on
mobile devices or remote computers to observe or evaluate the
strikes from any number of shooters. In another embodiment, a
signal booster 1212 may be used to relay data from the targets. In
another embodiment, a shooting range owner or competition official
or judge 1226 may utilize a transceiver to receive target data and
information by frequent users of the range for purposes of
providing loyalty rewards or offers to the individuals visiting
such ranges. In such embodiments, the range owner or competition
organizer may offer a central database 1227 for data storage where
individuals may access the information associated with a particular
account and can be programmed to interface with users to provide
information, updates, competition information, incentive
information, or the like. The central database is configurable to
be accessible through a user interface, for example a personal
computer or mobile device. The accessible information may include
range conditions for any particular day, such as wind speed or
other weather information.
[0086] FIG. 13 depicts alternative ways to orient or locate the
target sensors 1315, 1315' (S1, S1', S2, S2', S3, S3', S4, S4') on
two different targets 1303, 1303' to identify strike information.
Each sensor has a distance 1301, 1301' 1302, 1302', 1303, 1303',
1304, 1304' between the target sensor 1315, 1315' and a bulls eye
location 1380, 1380'.
[0087] FIGS. 14A-B depict a shot clusters 1248, 1248', where the
shot cluster indicates a high consistency but is not a high score
regarding target accuracy. The current shot 1248'' can be displayed
using an indicator that is different than the prior shots, e.g., an
open circle, or another shape. In such situations, the target
system may evaluate whether a scope adjustment is appropriate and
based on the shot data recommend a calibration adjustment. The
calibration adjustment may also apply to compensate with weather
conditions, such as wind.
[0088] FIGS. 15-16 are examples of display output from a personal
device, such as a target system application display on an
electronic device such as a smartphone, tablet, iPad, or laptop
computer. The figures demonstrate a broad presentation of data
relating to the particular session or as compared with historical
shooting data. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art,
each user can have a separate display. Additional data can be
provided including, for example, accuracy, score, weapon type,
ammunition type, current round vs. total rounds, relative ranking
to one or more other users, and shot number. Additionally a
cumulative performance can be provided. As will be appreciated by
those skilled in the art, the ranking can be a comparison between
one or more users at a facility engaged in a real-time competition
or with one or more persons at one or more other facilities.
Additionally, a time difference can exist between users. Thus, for
example, where a user in California is competing with a user in
Boston who has already completed a series of rounds (e.g., four
rounds), the display can provide the user in California with
information on a delayed and staggered basis thus replicating an
exchange of rounds. Thus, for example, once the California user
completes a round, data for the first round from the Boston user
can be displayed, thereafter the California user completes another
round, after which a second round from the Boston user is
displayed, and so on.
[0089] The target systems herein in some embodiments are configured
to measure accuracy, power and speed. Regarding speed, reaction
time may be measured by using a target system with a randomized
signal to fire, which may be with the application or may be
integrated with the target. For example, audial or visual signal
may be used. The signal in these situations is coordinated with the
target such that the timing between signal and impact may be
accurately measured and recorded. Preferably the signal is
delivered from the mobile application which is proximate the
shooter and does not require excessive volume or brightness. In
some modes, the overall score may be a factor of speed, power and
accuracy or any combination thereof based on the goals of the
shooter.
[0090] FIG. 17 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the
shooting target system 1701 according to the present disclosure.
The target system 1701 comprises a plurality of sensors, which may
include shockwave sensors 1710a-h such as vibration sensors and/or
accelerometers arranged to detect a shock wave arising and
propagating in the target material upon impact of a projectile (not
shown) in the target 1711. The target system 1701 further comprises
a local computing device 1712 connected to each shockwave sensor
1710a-h either wired or wirelessly and arranged to receive
measurement signals there from. When a shock wave in the target
material is detected by the shockwave sensors 1710a-h, each sensor
sends a signal indicating that a shock wave has been detected to
the computing device 1712. Alternatively, sensor signal data, which
can include piezo-vibration or shockwave data, may be transmitted
via a transceiver associated with the local computing device 1712
to a remote device, such as a mobile device, iPad, smartphone,
tablet computer, or the like. Any associated computing device,
whether local or remote, is configurable to calculate the point of
impact of the projectile in the target 1711 based on a runtime
difference of the shock wave between the different shockwave
sensors 1710a-h. The target 1711 can be a flat target which may be
on a stand or may alternatively be a uniformly curved metal sheet.
The principle of determining the point of impact of a projectile in
a target described below is equally applicable to a three
dimensional or two dimensional depiction. A variety of depictions
or target shapes 1715 may be on the target face such that the
depiction or target shape may be correlated in the target system
application or program and entered into the remote application or
program provide statistical accuracy and strike evaluation. For
example, a deer depiction may be displayed and correlate with a
program identifier such that a strike impact will be correlated
with that depiction or an alternative depiction such as a human
perpetrator may be correlated in the program under a different
program identifier for accuracy and strike evaluation purposes
relating to a differing target.
[0091] Vibrations or shock waves caused by the impact of a
projectile in the target 1711 will propagate in the target material
in a concentric pattern. The sensor closest to the point of impact
will be the first sensor to register the shock wave. When that
sensor detects the shock wave, it sends a signal to the computer
which starts a timer upon reception of the signal. In the same way,
the subsequently registering sensors send respective signals to the
computer. When the subsequent signals are received by the computer,
the differences in timing stamps between subsequent sensors
(DELTA's), indicative of the run time difference of the shock wave
between the first sensor and subsequent sensors, is stored, is
stored and used by the calculator.. The same run time difference is
performed between each subsequent sensor and the prior registering
sensors, resulting in a plurality of timer value DELTAs indicative
of the run time differences between the plurality of sensors. The
"run time difference" of the shock wave between two sensors can
hence also be expressed as the time delay between the detections of
the shock wave by the two sensors. That is, the value DELTA 1(a)
represents the time-delay between the detection of the shock wave
by the first sensor to detect the shock wave and the second sensor
to detect the shock wave, while the value DELTA 2(b) represents the
time-delay between the detections of the shock wave by the first
sensor to detect it and the third sensor to detect it. By utilizing
the time-delays between the detections of the shock wave by the
sensors 1710a-h as well as known parameter values, such as the
speed of sound in the target material which corresponds to the
velocity of shock wave propagation in the target 1711, and the
shock wave propagation distances between the sensors 1710a-h, a
computer 1712, calculates the point of impact X using standard
physics and well-known geometry. Shock wave propagation distance
shall in this context be construed as the distance the shockwave
has to propagate in the target material between two points.
[0092] Although the shooting target system 1701 in FIG. 17
comprises eight shock sensors, a person skilled in the art
appreciates that three sensors are sufficient to triangulate or
trilaterate a point of impact of the projectile and two shock
sensors are sufficient to retrieve some information about the point
of impact of the projectile. If only two shock sensors are used, an
exact point of impact cannot be determined since the system is
under-determined (the calculation means needs two time differences
in order to determine two coordinates for the point of impact).
However, a shooting target system comprising only two shock sensors
(yielding one shock wave run-time difference) is able to determine
a line along the target 1711, along which line the projectile must
have hit the target. This point-of-impact information may be
sufficient for certain shooting applications.
[0093] The parameter values needed to calculate the point of impact
except for the run-time difference of the shock wave between the
sensors detecting it, such as the speed of sound in the target
material and the propagation distance between the shock sensors,
are preferably stored in the computer. The computer can include a
user interface for a user to change the parameter values needed to
calculate the information related to the point of impact so as to
allow the same calculator associated with the computing device 1712
to be used with different targets composed by different materials
and/or shaped differently, and/or to allow repositioning of the
sensors at a target so as to optimize sensor readings.
[0094] The speed of sound in an aluminum or other metal target is
approximately 5000 m/sec. Thus, a shock wave travels approximately
10 cm in 0.02 ms. The shock sensors 1710a-h should be separated by
a distance ensuring that the electronic circuit of the calculator
associated with the computing device 1712 can distinguish the
different sensor signals from each other. The exactness of the
point-of-impact determination depends on the accuracy of the timer
value readings. Though three sensors could be used to triangulate
the strike location, more preferably a larger number of sensors
will allow for greater accuracy through data analysis and
correction or by recognition of outlier signals to eliminate
outlier signals from the calculation. Outlier signals may also be
used to identify sensor problems and the need for maintenance of
the sensor or system.
[0095] As aforementioned, shooting targets, and especially shooting
targets used in military shooting exercises, often depicts
fictitious enemy soldiers. A target system resolution of less than
1 cm is suitable, preferably less than 0.5 cm, more preferably less
than 2.5 mm, most preferably 1 mm or less, which is fully possible
to achieve with the target system according to the present
invention, is thus sufficient to determine which part of the target
that is hit by an incident projectile. In one embodiment the target
shape is projected or displayed and coordinated with the system
software such that strikes are correlated with particular location
strikes on the given target and accuracy scores calculated based on
the target selection. This may be achieved by associating each
target coordinate or different target regions with a part of the
body in a look-up table located in the signal processor associated
with the computing device 1712 or the indication means of the
shooting target system.
[0096] With the portability and flexibility of the present
invention a shooter may setup the target system in a number
locations. Accommodation may be made to account for gusts of wind,
rain or other incidental strikes. Wind gusts, hail and rain may
cause vibrations in the target material which undesirably may be
registered by the sensors and taken for an incident projectile by
the signal processor associated with the computing device 1712.
Such unintended readings can be prevented with use of sufficient
number of sensors and an algorithm to identify outlier readings. To
avoid this problem, the signal processor is preferably arranged to
compare the output signals from the sensors with a predetermined
threshold value and ignore signals indicative of outliers. To
further minimize the risk of calculating the "point of impact"
based on shock waves or vibrations that are not caused by a
projectile hitting the target 1711, the signal processor associated
with the computing device 1712 may be arranged to ignore all output
signals from the sensors that are not within a predetermined
amplitude interval, which interval is characteristic of shock waves
caused by a projectile impact on the target. This amplitude may be
adjustable to accommodate the conditions. Yet a further alternative
is to analyze the variation of the sensor signal amplitude in time
and only calculate the point of impact for those shock wave signals
having an amplitude-time signature that matches a predetermined
amplitude-time signature which is characteristic of shock waves
originating from a hit by a projectile. The smart logic of the
signal processor can use historic information of the target strike
amplitudes to progressively increase accuracy. Other logic can be
applied simultaneously. For example, the amplitude of consecutive
shock waves originating from a projectile impact rapidly decrease
in amplitude while the amplitudes of consecutive shock waves
originating from gusts of wind most likely will fluctuate randomly.
That is, the signal processor associated with the computing device
1712 may comprise logic that, by studying the amplitude of a
plurality of consecutive shock waves, is able to distinguish shock
waves or vibrations originating from a projectile impact from other
non-projectile generated shock waves.
[0097] FIG. 18 illustrates another embodiment of the shooting
target system according to the invention. The shooting target
system 1802 comprises similar components as the target system 1701
of FIG. 17. However, the target 1821 is divided in a matrix format
for the target. The target 1821 comprises a plurality of vertical
dividers 1827 substantially dividing the target into a plurality of
elongated target portions 1828a-f. In this embodiment, the dividers
are vertically arranged and extend from the bottom of the target
1821 to a distance from the top of the target, thereby forming a
plurality of vertically elongated target portions 1828a-f,
henceforth referred to as target columns, that are held together by
a horizontal "connection portion" 1830a-i. Sensors 1820a-f are
arranged to detect impact shock waves/vibrations in the target
material of each target column 1828a-f. Preferably, the sensors
1820a-f are disposed at or close to the ends of the target columns
1828a-f. Horizontal sensors are similarly disposed at or close to
the ends of the target rows 1830a-h. The number of rows and columns
are by example and more or less can be used depending on the
sensitivity of interest.
[0098] In FIG. 18, the target 1821 is illustrated as a curved metal
sheet which can be used to provide 3D effect. The principle of
determining the point of impact in a matrix target, as will be
further described below, is, however, equally applicable to a flat
shooting target.
[0099] FIG. 18 also illustrates how vibrations or shock waves
caused by the impact of a projectile on the matrix target 1821 are
propagating in the target material. Once again, an imagined point
of impact of a projectile in the target 1821 can be illustrated by
placing an X on the target. When a target column (for example,
target column 1828b) is hit by a projectile, shock waves arise and
propagate in the longitudinal directions of the target column. When
the outermost shock wave, i.e. the first shock wave arising in the
target material due to the impact of the projectile, reaches the
sensor located closest to the point of impact, which in this
particular case is sensor 1820b, the sensor transmits a signal to
the signal processor 1822 whereupon a timer 1824 is started. The
shockwave front propagating in the opposite direction reaches the
connection portion through which the vibrations/shock waves are
further spread to all target strips 1828a-f and horizontal sensors
1830a-h. The sensors neighboring the sensor disposed on the target
cylinder hit by the projectile, in this case sensors 1820a and
1820c, will be the next sensors to detect the shock wave since the
propagation distance from the point of impact to these sensors is
shorter than the propagation distance to the other sensors (except
for sensor 1820b ). As soon as sensor 1820a or sensor 1820c detects
the shock wave, a signal indicating that the shock wave has been
detected by a second sensor is sent to the processor 1822 whereupon
the timer 1824 is stopped and a timer value DELTA t, indicating the
run time difference of the shock wave between the first sensor to
detect it and the second sensor to detect it, is obtained. In a
similar way as described above with reference to FIG. 17, the point
of impact is then calculated by utilizing the value DELTA t and
known physical and geometrical parameters, such as the speed of
sound in the target material, and the shock wave propagation
distance between the sensors for which the run time difference of
the shock wave has been determined.
[0100] By dividing the target into a plurality of target portions
by columns, the shock wave propagation path between the different
shock sensors is prolonged, reducing the demands on the response
time of the shock sensors and the electronic circuit processing the
sensor signals. It also reduces the demands on the computational
power of the calculation means since only one target coordinate
needs to be calculated in order to establish the point of impact of
the projectile. In, e.g., the embodiment shown in FIG. 18 the
horizontal location for the point of impact is automatically given
since the calculation means "knows" that the projectile must have
hit the target somewhere along the vertical column on which the
sensor that was the first to detect the shock wave is disposed
(given that the calculation means is arranged so as to be able to
distinguish signals from different sensors). Hence, a matrix
shooting target eliminates one dimension from the geometrical
environment of the target and the processor 1822 only needs to
calculate the vertical coordinate for the point of impact based on
the run time difference of the shock wave between the different
sensors. The width of the columns may vary in dependence of the
demand on the target system resolution. In high precision shooting
exercises finely columnated targets may be used while roughly
columnated targets may be sufficient for other applications. In
FIG. 18, the local computer 1822 may additionally include a
transceiver 1825 which may be in contact with one or more personal
transceivers located with the shooter, an observer or at a display,
for example, to display results of each strike. Also, the local
computer 1822 may also include a modem 1826 that can be either WiFi
enabled or capable of communicating data to the internet through a
suitable data transmission vehicle such as LTE, GSM, HSPA, CDMA,
UMTS telecommunications, WiMax, EDGE, EV-DO, iBurst, HIPERMAN,
Flash-OFDM, or the like, such that the data is uploaded to an
internet based data system, such as a cloud database. All shot data
point or a large number of data points and associated variable data
can be stored in a relational database management system (DBMS),
such as SQL, MySQL, DB2, Informix, Sybase Adaptive Server
Enterprise, Sybase IQ, Teradata or the like. Base36 (hexatridecimal
storage) for example may be used with data for database storage in
such databases, or the like. Alternatively, hierarchical databases,
object databases and XML databases may be used. The data can be
accessed through the internet via a proprietary program or
preferably with a standard internet browser. This embodiment allows
observers across the world to follow the results of the shooter
real-time with simple access to the internet and a web browser.
Alternatively, strike information can be uploaded to the internet
and processed in one or more internet-based game settings.
Additionally, the target display simulates the view of the
character in a computer game and the strikes are correlated
real-time with the internet-based game to provide a real-feel
simulation. Such a simulation is ideal for use in police or
military training.
[0101] FIG. 19 shows an alternate embodiment of a simulation or
gaming system having a target 1901. The target 1901 may be, for
example, a steel plate or alternatively a rubber material, such as
a self-healing rubber. A rubber fragmentation ring 1902 can be
provided for use with the target 1901 between a screen 1903 and the
target. The screen 1903, can be, for example, a Coroplast screen,
on which an image or video may be projected or depicted. In an
alternative embodiment the screen 1903 may be a digital display
with a protective, optically transparent material surface, such as
a polycarbonate material such as Lexan.TM. or Tuffak.RTM.. A first
camera 1904 can be provided which faces the shooter. A second
camera 1906 can be provided facing the target. Target system 1905
has a target system with software on a computing device, such as a
tablet. A computer 1907 with a projector can be provided to project
a suitable game image or other video on the projection screen. The
computer may be equipped with a receiver or transceiver, as
described herein, with may, for example, use Bluetooth technology.
With the technology, the shooter may be imaged within the video
itself to simulate a real-life experience for purposes of training.
Panoramic or surround around screens may be used to provide an
immersive experience.
[0102] FIGS. 20A-B and FIGS. 21 A-B illustrate a suitable rubber
plate target overlay 2070. The target overlay 2070 has a front
surface 2072 and a rear surface 2074. The rear surface 2074 can
also include a raised portion 2080 which can be centrally located
to stabilize the target overlay 2070 against the target plate
(e.g., target plate 610). The front surface 2072 of the target
overlay 2070 can feature an image or raised feature, such as a
bulls eye which acts as a target 2082.
[0103] FIG. 22 illustrates a system overview. A platform computing
device 2210. The platform computing device 2210 is configurable to
communicate with the system 2200 when the system is in an online
mode, i.e., has an internet connection which allows data to be
uploaded, e.g., via a REST web service. When a user 2202 accesses
data via the internet, the user can make historic queries, can
submit analytic requests, and review results, update profile
information and administer the system. When the system 2200 is in
an offline mode (e.g., no WiFi or cell signal), the target device
2220 can communicate with a transceiver 2222 which provides long
range wireless information to, for example, a personal transceiver
2224 held by a shooter 2204. The personal transceiver 2224 can be
configured with or communicate with one or more of a mobile
application 2030, a desktop application 2032, and a web based
application 2034. In some configurations, the system 2200 does not
operate in an offline mode. On range features available whether the
system 2220 is offline or online includes real-time, or near
real-time shot visualization, environmental configuration,
multi-target/multi-shooter correlation and management, review of
live firing, and profile input and management.
[0104] The target system, could include one or more computing
devices, the computing devices comprising one or more processors in
communication with at least one other processor of the target
system, product data and database entries from a first database
associated with one or more experiences. The computer system is in
communication with one or more databases that receive and store
entries from one or more user input devices and optionally the
sensors denoting information characterizing the one or more
experiences. The computer system is specially programmed with
computer code to manage the experience. One such experience is a
simulation, another is a video game, for example. The experiences
are personalized and customized based on user input and/or other
input sources, such as environmental sources or through beacon
technology, such devices as described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,718,620.
The beacon technology may be used to provide location-based
content, maps, weather, city information, or any other suitable
content. The beacon technology, in one embodiment, is integrated
with the portable target system and may be used to automatically
load personal user preference when the user is in the propinquity
of the beacon.
[0105] The beacon technology may also be integrated with the
experience at multiple locations and phases to track multiple users
in the same experience and/or multiple locations or stations
involved in the experience. For example, in a range, several
beacons may be strategically located for the purpose of detecting a
user when moving from a location outside the beacon detection zone
to within the zone to initiate a portion of the experience based on
the programming, location, and/or user.
[0106] A screen shot from a user's display, for example from the
user/shooter mobile device, may show a variety of information, such
as the weather, distance to target, projectile device (e.g. .308
Remington), projectile, and data regarding the shot strike. The
data from the shot strike includes the time of the strike, a score
generated by a customized algorithm specific to the target,
projectile device, distance to the target and weather conditions,
for example.
[0107] Another screen shot, upon clicking on the particular shot,
may display additional information about each shot which can be
displayed in a pop-up window from a touch screen or curser click.
Additional information can be added in a notes section. Such
information can be saved and uploaded to a user data base, which
may be cloud based or local. The user display may be customizable.
In some configurations, the user may customize the appearance of
the screen shot to reflect personal preferences. Any suitable
computer device may be used, such as a handheld device, portable
computer, smart phone, iPad.RTM., or the like. Any device able to
use a web browser may be used, though ideally the user device is a
mobile device to accommodate the mobility of the target system.
Multiple shooter information may be displayed on one screen, for
example, a multiple user/shooter display exemplifying three
shooters at the time, graphically showing the scores, ranking the
shooters and indicating the accuracy of each shooter.
[0108] For example, the target system may be adapted to apply to
larger weaponry target practice, such as those used by the
military.
[0109] In engaging the systems and methods according to aspects of
the disclosed subject matter the user may engage in one or more use
sessions. Each use session may include a training session and/or
one or more rounds of gameplay. Each gameplay may include one or
more trials. For each use session involving a gameplay, performance
data for the user for each gameplay and each use session is stored.
Performance data may be compared from one or more use sessions,
gameplays, or trials within a gameplay to determine a difficulty
level of a future trial or gameplay. The difficulty level may be
determined real-time at the completion of a session, a round of
gameplay, or at the commencement of a session or a round of
gameplay.
[0110] The systems and methods according to aspects of the
disclosed subject matter may utilize a variety of computer and
computing systems, communications devices, networks and/or
digital/logic devices for operation. Each may, in turn, be
configurable to utilize a suitable computing device which can be
manufactured with, loaded with and/or fetch from some storage
device, and then execute, instructions that cause the computing
device to perform a method according to aspects of the disclosed
subject matter.
[0111] A computing device can include without limitation a mobile
user device such as a mobile phone, a smart phone and a cellular
phone, a personal digital assistant ("PDA"), such as an Android,
iPhone.RTM., a tablet, a laptop and the like. In at least some
configurations, a user can execute a browser application over a
network, such as the Internet, to view and interact with digital
content, such as screen displays. A display includes, for example,
an interface that allows a visual presentation of data from a
computing device. Access could be over or partially over other
forms of computing and/or communications networks. A user may
access a web-browser, e.g., to provide access to applications and
data and other content located on a web-site or a web-page of a
web-site.
[0112] A suitable computing device may include a processor to
perform logic and other computing operations, e.g., a stand-alone
computer processing unit ("CPU"), or hard wired logic as in a
microcontroller, or a combination of both, and may execute
instructions according to its operating system and the instructions
to perform the steps of the method, or elements of the process. The
user's computing device may be part of a network of computing
devices and the methods of the disclosed subject matter may be
performed by different computing devices associated with the
network, perhaps in different physical locations, cooperating or
otherwise interacting to perform a disclosed method. For example, a
user's portable computing device may run an app alone or in
conjunction with a remote computing device, such as a server on the
Internet. For purposes of the present application, the term
"computing device" includes any and all of the above discussed
logic circuitry, communications devices and digital processing
capabilities or combinations of these.
[0113] Certain embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may be
described for illustrative purposes as steps of a method which may
be executed on a computing device executing software, and
illustrated, by way of example only, as a block diagram of a
process flow. Such may also be considered as a software flow chart.
Such block diagrams and like operational illustrations of a method
performed or the operation of a computing device and any
combination of blocks in a block diagram, can illustrate, as
examples, software program code/instructions that can be provided
to the computing device or at least abbreviated statements of the
functionalities and operations performed by the computing device in
executing the instructions. Some possible alternate implementation
may involve the function, functionalities and operations noted in
the blocks of a block diagram occurring out of the order noted in
the block diagram, including occurring simultaneously or nearly so,
or in another order or not occurring at all. Aspects of the
disclosed subject matter may be implemented in parallel or seriatim
in hardware, firmware, software or any combination(s) of these,
co-located or remotely located, at least in part, from each other,
e.g., in arrays or networks of computing devices, over
interconnected networks, including the Internet, and the like.
[0114] The instructions may be stored on a suitable "machine
readable medium" within a computing device or in communication with
or otherwise accessible to the computing device. As used in the
present application a machine readable medium is a tangible storage
device and the instructions are stored in a non-transitory way. At
the same time, during operation, the instructions may at sometimes
be transitory, e.g., in transit from a remote storage device to a
computing device over a communication link. However, when the
machine readable medium is tangible and non-transitory, the
instructions will be stored, for at least some period of time, in a
memory storage device, such as a random access memory (RAM), read
only memory (ROM), a magnetic or optical disc storage device, or
the like, arrays and/or combinations of which may form a local
cache memory, e.g., residing on a processor integrated circuit, a
local main memory, e.g., housed within an enclosure for a processor
of a computing device, a local electronic or disc hard drive, a
remote storage location connected to a local server or a remote
server access over a network, or the like. When so stored, the
software will constitute a "machine readable medium," that is both
tangible and stores the instructions in a non-transitory form. At a
minimum, therefore, the machine readable medium storing
instructions for execution on an associated computing device will
be "tangible" and "non-transitory" at the time of execution of
instructions by a processor of a computing device and when the
instructions are being stored for subsequent access by a computing
device.
[0115] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have
been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those
skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of
example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will
now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the
invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the
embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in
practicing the invention. It is intended that the following claims
define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures
within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered
thereby.
* * * * *
References