U.S. patent application number 16/205794 was filed with the patent office on 2019-05-30 for target label assembly and method of application.
The applicant listed for this patent is Timothy J. Flynn. Invention is credited to Timothy J. Flynn.
Application Number | 20190162510 16/205794 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 66633052 |
Filed Date | 2019-05-30 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190162510 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Flynn; Timothy J. |
May 30, 2019 |
TARGET LABEL ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF APPLICATION
Abstract
A target label assembly and method of application. The target
label assembly includes a reactive target label shape that has a
printed target pattern that matches, for use as an overlay, an
original target pattern of a base paper target. The label shape
includes an alignment window over a portion of the printed target
pattern, such as a plurality of target circles, of the label that
allows for see-through alignment with the original target pattern
to be overlaid. Thus a paper target can be made into a reactive
target.
Inventors: |
Flynn; Timothy J.; (Key,
FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Flynn; Timothy J. |
Key |
FL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
66633052 |
Appl. No.: |
16/205794 |
Filed: |
November 30, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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62592548 |
Nov 30, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41J 5/205 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41J 5/20 20060101
F41J005/20 |
Claims
1. A target label assembly for overlaying a base target, the base
target having a base target pattern, the target label assembly
comprising: a face sheet adhered to a removable liner; a label
shape defined in the face sheet by a tearable line, the label shape
including an overlaying target pattern matching at least a portion
of the base target pattern; and an alignment window formed through
the label shape and over a portion of the overlaying target
pattern, wherein a corresponding portion of the base target pattern
aligns with the portion of the overlaying target pattern through
the alignment window to align the label shape over the base target
pattern.
2. The target label assembly of claim 1, further comprising a
weakened fold line dividing the removable liner.
3. The target label assembly of claim 2, wherein a first section of
the removable liner over the alignment window is foldable back over
a second section of the removable line adhered to the label shape
to align the label shape with the base target pattern.
4. The target label assembly of claim 3, wherein the alignment
window is opened upon a folding of the first section.
5. The target label assembly of claim 1, further comprising a
second alignment window over a second portion of the overlaying
target portion.
6. The target label assembly of claim 1, wherein the face sheet
comprises a remaining portion disposed around the label shape, and
further comprising a plurality of cut target impact cover labels
removable from the remaining portion.
7. The target label assembly of claim 1, wherein the alignment
window extends inward at an outer peripheral edge of the label
shape.
8. The target label assembly of claim 1, wherein the alignment
window comprises a registration opening cut within the label
shape.
9. The target label assembly of claim 8, wherein the registration
opening is opened upon a folding of a first section of the
removable liner over the registration opening.
10. The target label assembly of claim 1, wherein the overlaying
target pattern comprises an overlay plurality of nested shapes
matching a base plurality of nested shapes of the base target,
wherein the alignment window extends through a line of one of the
overlay plurality of nested shapes.
11. The target label assembly of claim 1, wherein the target label
comprises: a colored substrate including at least one paper or
plastic layer and having a first color, the colored substrate
having a front surface and a back surface; a transparent plastic
film having a front surface and a back surface, the back surface of
the transparent plastic film overlaying the front surface of the
colored substrate; an opaque ink layer overlaying the front surface
of the transparent plastic film; and a toner layer defining an
image of a target, overlaying the opaque ink layer, and having a
second color different from the first color.
12. A target label assembly for overlaying a base target, the base
target having a base target pattern, the target label assembly
comprising: a face sheet adhered to a removable liner, the liner
including a weakened fold line dividing the liner into two
sections; a label shape defined in the face sheet by a tearable
line, the label shape including an overlaying target pattern
matching the base target pattern; and a first alignment window
formed through the label shape and over a first portion of the
overlaying target pattern, a second alignment window formed through
the label shape and over a second portion of the overlaying target
portion on an opposing side from the first portion; wherein each of
the first and second alignment windows is disposed in a first of
the two sections of the liner, and a corresponding portion of the
base target pattern aligns with the first and second portions of
the overlaying target pattern through the first and second
alignment windows to align the label shape over the base target
pattern.
13. The target label assembly of claim 12, wherein the first of the
two sections of the removable liner is foldable back over a second
of the two sections of the removable liner to adhere a portion of
the label shape with the base target pattern.
14. The target label assembly of claim 13, wherein each of the
first and second alignment windows is opened upon a folding of the
first of the two sections.
15. The target label assembly of claim 12, wherein the face sheet
comprises a remaining portion disposed around the label shape, and
further comprising a plurality of cut target impact cover labels
removable from the remaining portion.
16. The target label assembly of claim 12, wherein the alignment
windows extends inward at an outer peripheral edge of the label
shape.
17. The target label assembly of claim 12, wherein each of the
first and second alignment windows comprises a registration opening
cut within the label shape, and the registration opening is opened
upon the folding of the first of the two sections of the removable
liner over the registration opening.
18. The target label assembly of claim 12, wherein the overlaying
target pattern comprises an overlay plurality of nested shapes
matching a base plurality of nested shapes of the base target,
wherein each of the alignment windows extends through a line of one
of the overlay plurality of nested shapes.
19. A method of labeling a base target pattern with a reactive
target label, the method comprising: folding a first section of a
removable liner from a self-adhesive label shape to expose an
adhesive material, the label shape including an overlaying target
pattern matching at least a portion of the base target pattern;
opening via the folding an alignment window formed through the
label shape and over a portion of the overlaying target pattern;
aligning the overlaying target pattern with the base target pattern
through the alignment window to align the label shape over the base
target pattern; and adhering the adhesive material to the base
target pattern.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising opening via the
folding a second alignment window formed through the label shape
and over a second portion of the overlaying target pattern opposite
the portion.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 62/592,548, filed on 30 Nov. 2017. The
co-pending provisional application is hereby incorporated by
reference herein in its entirety and is made a part hereof,
including but not limited to those portions which specifically
appear hereinafter.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention is directed to an improved target for
shooting, which is "reactive" in that when penetrated by a
projectile, exposes one or more different colors over an area
surrounding the penetration.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Various target labels are known which, upon receiving a
projectile, expose an area of color that is larger than the
cross-sectional area of the projectile. U.S. Pat. No. 7,631,877,
issued to Zara, discloses a target including a substrate, a first
ink layer covering at least part of the substrate, and a second ink
layer carried by the substrate. The second ink layer includes a
first section having a first color and covering at least part of
the first ink layer, and a second section having a second color
different than the first color. The second ink layer is configured
so that the impact of a firearm projectile detaches a portion of
the second ink layer from the substrate and exposes a portion of
the substrate and/or the first ink layer. In another disclosed
embodiment, the target includes a substrate and an ink layer
carried by the substrate. The ink layer includes a first section
having a first color and a second section having a second color
different from the first color. The target is configured so that
penetration of a projectile removes a portion of the ink layer and
exposes a surface adjacent to the ink layer.
[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 3,895,803, issued to Loe, discloses a laminar
firearm target including a brightly colored backing sheet, a
transparent plastic film bonded to the backing sheet, and a target
pattern printed in a black and white ink layer on the front side of
the transparent plastic film so as to completely obscure the
brightly colored backing sheet. When a projectile strikes the
target, a substantially larger than projectile-size portion of the
ink layer is removed at the impact point, while a smaller hole is
made in the plastic film and backing sheet, exposing an area of the
brightly colored backing sheet.
[0005] U.S. Publication 2011/0316234 to Miller, Sr. discloses a
reactive target for guns that fire non-metallic BB's. The target
uses the kinetic energy stored in a plastic BB after it has been
launched and transfers that energy into the target mass, causing a
colored particulate matter to be expelled into the surrounding area
and make a mark on the target surface.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 5,275,890 to Wolf et al. discloses a gun
target including substantially planar first and second sheets. The
first sheet has a back surface and an exposed front surface which
carries a graphic pattern having a first color, at which the weapon
is aimed. The second sheet is connected to the back surface of the
first sheet and has a contrasting color relative to the first
color. When a round fired from the weapon into the graphic pattern
penetrates both sheets, the resulting hole exposes the second color
at the front surface of the first sheet.
[0007] The foregoing targets all have the ability to expose a
colored area around the hole made by the projectile, to amplify the
visual impact when the target is hit. In the competitive field of
target labels, there is a need or desire for cost-efficient target
labels that further enhance the visual impact when the target is
hit.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The invention provides a target label for self-adhesive
application to any base target. In embodiments of this invention,
the target label has a corresponding or matching target pattern as
the underlying base target (e.g., a paper sheet), and provides
improved visibility and/or reactive target properties to the base
target. The target label is manufactured within and applied using a
label assembly with a removable liner. In embodiments of this
invention, the liner is partially removed, such as by folding about
a weakened liner fold line to allow a portion of the target label
to be aligned and adhered before the full liner is removed for full
label adhesion.
[0009] The invention includes a target label assembly for
overlaying a base target with base target pattern. The target label
assembly includes a face sheet adhered to a removable line, and a
label shape defined in the face sheet by a tearable line. The label
shape includes an overlaying target pattern matching at least a
portion of the base target pattern. An alignment window is formed
through the label shape and over a portion of the overlaying target
pattern. A corresponding portion of the base target pattern aligns
with the portion of the overlaying target pattern through the
alignment window to allow improved alignment of the label shape
over the base target pattern. The backing liner can include the
weakened fold line dividing the liner, whereby a first section of
the removable liner over the alignment window is foldable back over
a second section of the removable line adhered to the label shape
to open the alignment window and/or align the label shape with the
base target pattern.
[0010] The invention further includes a target label assembly that
includes a face sheet adhered to a removable liner with a weakened
fold line dividing the liner into two sections. A label shape is
defined in the face sheet by a tearable line, and includes an
overlaying target pattern matching a corresponding base target
pattern. A first alignment window is formed through the label shape
over a first portion of the overlaying target pattern, and a second
alignment window is formed through the label shape over a second
portion of the overlaying target portion on an opposing side from
the first portion. Each of the first and second alignment windows
is disposed in a first of the two sections of the liner, and a
corresponding portion of the base target pattern aligns with the
first and second portions of the overlaying target pattern through
the first and second alignment windows to align the label shape
over the base target pattern. The first of the two sections of the
removable liner is desirably foldable back over a second of the two
sections of the removable liner to promote or improve aligned with
the base target pattern.
[0011] The invention further includes a method of labeling a base
target pattern with a reactive target label. The method includes:
folding a first section of a removable liner from a self-adhesive
label shape to expose an adhesive material, the label shape
including an overlaying target pattern matching at least a portion
of the base target pattern; opening (e.g., via uncovering) via the
folding an alignment window formed through the label shape and over
a portion of the overlaying target pattern; aligning the overlaying
target pattern with the base target pattern through the alignment
window to align the label shape over the base target pattern; and
adhering the adhesive material to the base target pattern. A second
alignment window formed through the label shape and over a second
portion of the overlaying target pattern opposite the other portion
can also be included and opened for better alignment.
[0012] In embodiments of this invention, the target label includes
a registration opening cut over or across a printed target pattern,
element, or line of the corresponding target pattern of the label.
The registration opening provides the alignment window to align the
target pattern of the label with the target pattern of the
underlying target base, thereby aligning the label on the target
base.
[0013] In a preferred embodiment of this invention, the alignment
window can be formed as a cut registration opening shape in the
target label, which is removed during removal of the liner. The
removable shape can be cut in the label so that the shape remains
on the liner when the liner is removed. In embodiments of this
invention, this can be accomplished by a die cut extending
partially along a perimeter of the shape and through both the label
and the back sheet liner. In other words, a portion of the cut
forming the shape is through both the label and the liner. This die
cut is desirably positioned on or along a side of the shape and/or
registration opening that corresponds with the side of the liner
portion that is removed first. The die cut can extend between
approximately 10% and 50% of the shape or opening, and/or
approximately 1.degree. and 180.degree. along a rounded or circular
shape.
[0014] Embodiments of the present invention can use toner instead
of, or printed on a layer of, ink to define a target image, and may
also use toner to form an underlying colored layer. In contrast to
ink, toner is predominantly a powder, and is used in laser printers
and photocopiers to form the text and images on printed paper. The
primary components of toner are a powdered polymer such as
styrene-acrylate copolymer, polyester, or styrene-butadiene
copolymer, sometimes blended with carbon black and/or iron oxide
powder. Various toner colors can be synthesized by blending the
polymer with a pigment before forming the powder. Toner can be
prepared by compounding the ingredients and forming a slab, which
is then pulverized to the desired particle size. Toner powder can
have a particle size ranging from about 16 micrometers down to
about 8-10 micrometers or less.
[0015] In conventional applications, toner particles are melted by
heat, causing them to individually bond to the underlying material.
In embodiments of this invention, another technique is to mix the
toner powder with an aqueous carrier to form liquid toner. The
liquid toner is applied at room temperature and dried, resulting in
minimal adhesion of the toner to the underlying layer. This
promotes scattering of the toner powder when the target is struck
by a firearm projectile. The liquid toner may include about 20-80%
by weight toner powder and about 20-80% by weight of the aqueous
carrier, suitably about 30-70% by weight toner powder and about
30-70% by weight of the aqueous carrier.
[0016] Ink, by contrast, is a liquid or paste that contains
pigments or dyes carried by a solvent. Ink strongly adheres to the
substrate upon drying the solvent. Ink can be a complex medium of
solvents, pigments, dyes, resins, lubricants, solubilizers,
surfactants, particulate matter, and fluorescents. As used herein,
the terms "toner" and "ink" are mutually exclusive of each
other.
[0017] In one embodiment, the invention is directed to a target
that includes a colored substrate including at least one paper or
plastic layer and having a first color. A transparent plastic film
overlays a front surface of the colored substrate. An opaque ink
layer overlays a front surface of the transparent plastic film and
can have a third color that is different from the first color. A
toner layer, defining an image or pattern of a target, overlays the
opaque ink layer, and has a third color, and optionally fourth or
more colors, different from the first and second colors. The opaque
ink layer and the second color. The opaque ink layer acts as a
release layer or agent that is partially removable from the plastic
film upon an impact from a projectile to reveal the first color,
thereby making the impact more noticeable from afar.
[0018] In one embodiment, the invention provides a target that has
a colored substrate including at least one paper or plastic layer
and having a first color, the colored substrate having a front
surface and a back surface. The target further includes a
transparent plastic film having a front surface and a back surface,
where the back surface of the transparent plastic film overlays the
front surface of the colored substrate. An opaque layer of ink
overlays the front surface of the transparent plastic film and
masks the first color under the ink. A toner layer defining an
image of a target overlays the opaque ink layer. The opaque layer
is visible about a periphery of the image of the target and the
toner layer has a second color different from the first color.
[0019] Because the toner layer is formed of discrete particles,
suitably with minimal adhesion when applied via an ink release
layer, they can have improved scattering properties when the target
is hit, causing the visual appearance of gun powder burns
surrounding the area of the target penetrated by a projectile, in
addition to exposing underlying colored layer(s). The exposure of
one or more underlying colors, combined with the visual appearance
of powder burns, enhances the enjoyment of using the target labels
for target practice.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a target label assembly according
to one embodiment of the invention, showing the front of the target
label with an upper corner being separated from a liner.
[0021] FIG. 2 is an exploded side view of the target label of FIG.
1, showing the individual layers.
[0022] FIG. 3 is a top or front view of a target label assembly
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 4 is a bottom or rear view of the target label assembly
according to FIG. 3.
[0024] FIG. 5 is a target according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0025] FIG. 6 illustrates the application of the target label of
FIG. 1 onto the target of FIG. 5.
[0026] FIG. 7 is a drawing of the exploded portion of FIG. 6.
[0027] FIG. 8 shows a partial perspective view of an application of
a label according to one embodiment of this invention.
[0028] FIG. 9 is a partial side view of an application of a label
according to one embodiment of this invention.
[0029] FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of a target label, after
it has been penetrated by a projectile.
[0030] FIG. 11 is a plan view of a target label assembly according
to one embodiment of the invention.
[0031] FIG. 12 is a plan view of a target label according to one
embodiment of the invention, showing the front of the target
label.
[0032] FIG. 13 is an exploded side view of the target label of FIG.
12, showing the individual layers, and showing overlaying layers of
clear coating or varnish.
[0033] FIG. 14 illustrates one embodiment of a target label, after
it has been penetrated by a projectile.
[0034] FIG. 15 illustrates another embodiment of a target label,
after it has been penetrated by a projectile.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a target label assembly 10
includes a removable liner 22 and a target label 30 cut within a
remaining portion 34 of a label face sheet 25. The liner 22 is
initially releasably adhered or otherwise joined to the target
label 30 and is peeled away (see the upper right corner) when the
target label 30 is ready for mounting to a mounting board or other
device (see FIG. 5). The releasable liner 22 can be formed of
paper, polymer-coated paper, polyester film, high density
polyethylene film, low density polyethylene film, biaxially
oriented polypropylene, and a wide variety of polymers and polymer
combinations. Suitable paper liners include without limitation
super calendared kraft paper with or without a polyvinyl alcohol
coating, clay coated kraft paper, machine finished kraft paper, and
machine glazed kraft paper. Any suitable sizing or release agents
can be incorporated as needed to make the liner removable from a
pressure sensitize adhesive material 32 layer of the face sheet 25
and target label 30.
[0036] The target label (and assembly) of FIG. 1 includes a
pigmented or colored substrate 40. The pigmented substrate 40 can
be a single layer of paper or plastic film, or can include
additional layers, such as described below. The layer 40 is
desirably a colored paper or plastic film having a first color
imparted by dyeing or otherwise impregnating the paper or plastic
film during its manufacture or by other suitable methods, and does
not require application of an ink layer. The colored substrate 40
can be devoid of ink layers. The color is desirably a bright,
noticeable color, such as yellow or orange, or a fluorescent color.
The paper layer can be selected from a wide variety of commercially
available colored papers that have suitable thickness and integrity
to serve as a substrate for a target label. When a colored plastic
is used for substrate 40, the plastic can be selected from low
density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene,
polypropylene, polyester, polyamide, and a wide variety of other
polymers having suitable integrity at the desired thickness.
[0037] The colored substrate 40 has a back surface 41 and a front
surface 49, with the first color visible from at least the front
surface 49. The laminate target label 30 of FIG. 1 includes a
transparent film 50 having a back surface 51 and a front surface
59. The back surface 51 of the transparent film 50 can be joined to
the front surface 49 of the colored substrate 40 by any suitable
method, such as by using an pressure sensitive or other adhesive,
by extrusion onto the substrate 40, by heat sensitive film, or by
crosslinking or vulcanization directly to the substrate 40.
[0038] The transparent film 50 is suitably made of plastic, and can
contain one or multiple layers. The plastic film layer(s) can be
any transparent polymer material that allows the substrate 40 first
color to be perceived there through. Exemplary polymers include,
without limitation, biaxially oriented polypropylene, linear low
density polyethylene, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyethylene
terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polyamide, acrylic
copolymers, and the like. In one embodiment of this invention, the
film 50 desirably covers at least substantially all of the
substrate surface 49. An adhesive material for attaching the film
50 to the substrate 40 can be selected from a wide variety of
suitable adhesives, including without limitation solvent-based
adhesives based on polyamide suspensions, polyacrylates,
polyurethanes and the like, as well as extrudable polyolefin-based
adhesives and ionomers having reactive functional groups. The
adhesive layer is desirably removable from the base target
material, such as for realignment and/or replacement. The adhesive
layer can optionally contain particles or flakes of glitter, as
described above, provided that the concentration of glitter
particles or flakes is not so high as to obscure the first color on
the front surface 49 of colored substrate 40. Any suitable surface
59 treatment can be used to provide improved release functionality,
such as described below.
[0039] The target label 10 includes at least one release layer 60
overlaying the front surface 59 of transparent film 50. The release
layer 60 facilitates separation from the transparent film 50. In
embodiments of this invention, the release layer is an opaque ink
layer 60 overlaying the front surface 59 of the transparent plastic
film 50. The opaque ink layer 60 has an opacity to cover, mask, or
otherwise hide the first color of the substrate 40. The opaque ink
can be any suitable ink, such as an oil-based ink, an aqueous ink,
or a vegetable-based ink. The opaque ink layer 60 has a color that
is different from the first color of the substrate 40, such as a
white ink layer 40 covering a yellow substrate 40.
[0040] The ink layer 60 forms a surface on which a target image 65
is applied. In embodiments of this invention, the target image 65
is formed of a toner layer 70, and can be any suitable shape or
silhouette. The toner is pigmented with a different color from each
of the ink layer 60 and first color of the substrate 40. Preferred
embodiments use a black or dark gray, navy, or green, etc. to stand
out against the light-colored ink, and also providing contrast to
the lighter, brighter color of the substrate 40. A target pattern,
such as including nested shapes (e.g., several variously sized, and
similarly shaped printed rings or equivalent, such as shown in FIG.
1, one inside another), numbers, and/or other shapes or elements
can be included in the toner layer and be a further brighter or
contrasting color.
[0041] In conventional applications, toner particles are melted by
heat, causing them to individually bond to the underlying material.
In embodiments of this invention, the toner layer 70 can be applied
as a dry or wet toner, and then dried or otherwise thermally
activated to adhere the powder toner particles to the ink layer 60.
The target image 65 can be applied during manufacture of the target
label 30, or can be printed by a home or commercial consumer, on
the ink layer by a suitable consumer printer.
[0042] During use, the liner 22 is removed from the target label 30
to expose the pressure-sensitive adhesive 32, which is used to
secure the target label 30 to a mounting surface or device.
Removing the liner also desirably uncovers the alignment window to
allow the user to see the base pattern during application. FIG. 5
illustrates a target 100, formed of a paper or other fibrous
material, and having a target image to which the label 30 will
adhere. The target shown in FIG. 5 is known as a B-29 target
silhouette, but any suitable pattern or graphic can be used and
matched by the target label of this invention. The target label 30
includes an overlaying target pattern that corresponds to the base
target pattern 102 of target 100, and the target label 30 is
designed to adhere over the base target 100 to impart reactive
target features according to this invention to the paper or
standard target 100 while maintaining a similar target pattern or
image.
[0043] Embodiments of this invention include an alignment window in
the target label that provides for improved orientation of the
target label over the underlying base target. In FIG. 1, the target
label 30 includes at least one registration opening shape 35 cut in
the label 30, and which can be removed from the label 30 to allow a
user to see through the label 30 to align the label pattern with
the target pattern 102. The cut shape is desirably die cut over or
around a portion of the printed target pattern or lines such that
the image or lines can be aligned with the corresponding pattern or
line 102 of the underlying base target 100. As shown in FIGS. 6 and
7, when the shape 35 is removed, a registration opening 36 is
provided in the label 30. The opening 36 extends over, and removes,
a portion of one of the target lines 38, and by aligning the target
label line 38 on either side of the opening with the corresponding
base target lines 102, the label 30 is registered or aligned with
the base target 100 for adhesion. The inclusion of a second shape
35 and opening 36 on, for example, an opposing side of the label
can be used to further ensure alignment.
[0044] The alignment window and/or corresponding cut registration
opening shape of this invention can be any suitable shape depending
on need and/or the shape and configuration of the target label and
the target pattern or lines 38 thereon. Exemplary shapes include,
without limitation, a circle, oval, ellipse, square, or triangle
(see FIG. 12). The alignment window or registration opening can be
an elongated shape (see FIG. 14) that follows a target element or
line for a desired distance. The alignment window or registration
opening can be positioned as needed on the target label, and over
any desired target line or element. For example, the illustrated
opening 36 is over the outer target line, but could be over any
inner line or partially or fully over any number of the target
label 30. In another embodiment of this invention, as shown in FIG.
11, the alignment window or registration opening can be an inward
notch at or from the peripheral edge of the target label 30. The
shape 35 is connected on one side to the remaining portion 34 to
remain on the liner 22 and provide a notch opening that extends
into and over the printed target pattern or lines 38.
Alternatively, the alignment window can be an opening in the face
sheet material without any face sheet material that needs
removal.
[0045] FIG. 3 shows a top view of a target label assembly 10
according to another embodiment of this invention. FIG. 4 shows the
bottom, liner 22 view of the label assembly 10 of FIG. 3. The face
sheet 25 of FIG. 3 includes a target label 30 defined by a tearable
line of separation 12 ("tearable line" or "separation line" for
short) that allows the label 30 to be removed from the remaining
portion 34 of the face sheet 25 for use. The remaining portion 34
can include other optional labels such as the plurality of circular
cover labels 18, which can be used to cover holes made in the label
30 and allowing for further use. These target impact cover labels
18 can likewise be printed of the layers described herein, such as
in FIG. 2, to provide reactive target covers that match the
functionality of the material being replaced. Removable shapes 35
for providing registration opening 36 are formed in the label 30 by
tearable lines 14.
[0046] A perforated, or otherwise weakened, line 23 extends across
the liner 22 as a fold line for use in applying the label 30,
discussed further below. The perforated line 23 is desirably placed
between the assembly sheet midpoint and one end of the label
assembly 10. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the perforated line 23 is
positioned at about 15%-35%, and desirably at about 25%, of the
label assembly 10, thereby allowing a smaller portion of the label
30 to be exposed during application, such as shown in FIGS. 6 and
9. The placement of the fold line 23 can vary, depending on need
and the size, shape, and/or configuration of the label assembly and
label.
[0047] The perforated line 23 is a fold line that allows for a
portion of the liner 22 up to the line 23 to be removed from the
label 30 by folding at the perforated line 23. As shown in FIG. 6,
the folded liner 22 exposes a first portion 104 of the label 30,
which can be aligned and adhered to the base target 100 without a
second portion 106 adhering. Once the first portion is aligned
using the registration opening 36, and adhered, the second,
remaining liner section 107 can be removed from the second portion
106 and the full label 30 adhered to the base target 100.
[0048] As shown in FIG. 9, in embodiments of this invention, the
folded liner 22 can further provide a benefit of spacing a part of
the first portion 104, particularly the part closer to the
perforated fold line 23, from the base target 100. This is due to a
tendency of the folded first portion to move, e.g., due to minor
elastic or other forces, slightly away from the full-flat folded
position, as illustrated in FIG. 9. In this manner, the folded
liner portion 104 is or acts as a spacing or indexing tab to
promote efficient alignment and/or adherence.
[0049] Embodiments of this invention incorporating a folded liner
section 105 can further include an automated removal of the face
sheet shape 35 via the folded liner portion. As shown in FIG. 4,
the liner 22 includes a die cut 16 extending partially along the
perimeter of the shape 35. The registration opening 36 may be
opened upon removal of the shape 35 by folding back the section 105
using the die cut 16, which extends through both face sheet 25 and
liner 22. Die cut 16 is preferably generally arcuate for the
circular shape 35 and positioned along a side of the shape that
corresponds with, or faces the same direction as, the first portion
104. In other words, the die cut 16 is on a side of the shape 35
opposite the perforated line 23, and disposed toward the end of the
first portion 104 opposite the second portion 106 from where
peeling commences (see FIG. 1). According to an embodiment of die
cut 16 having an arcuate shape, the arc preferably extends between
approximately 1.degree. and 180.degree. along hole formed by
separation line 14 and more preferably extends between
approximately 5.degree. and 90.degree. along the separation line
14.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 8, as the liner section 105 is peeled from
the label 30, the die cut 16 causes the liner 22 to remain adhered
to the shape 35, and then pulls the shape 35 from the label 30 as
the first portion 104 is further removed. The registration opening
36 is thus opened automatically without further manual
intervention, by removal and folding of the liner section 105,
whereby the shape 35 remains adhered to the liner section 105 as
the first section 105 is peeled from the label 30.
[0051] FIG. 10 illustrates a target label 30, including
registration openings 35 and covering a base target pattern on a
target base 100, after the target has been penetrated by a
projectile, leaving a projectile opening 90. By operation of the
release ink layer between the transparent film and the toner layer
70, an area 92 of the ink layer 60 and the toner layer 70 is
displaced which exceeds the diameter of the projectile opening 90.
The contrasting first color of the front surface 49 of colored
substrate 40 (see FIG. 2) is exposed over the area 92, creating the
visual impression of enhanced damage when the projectile hits the
target label 30. The scattering of the ink layer 60 and/or the
toner layer 70 to uncover area 92 also contributes to a visual
simulation of gun powder burns in the area 92.
[0052] FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate an alternative layer structure
for a target label assembly 10. A liner assembly 20 is initially
releasably joined to the target label 30 and is peeled away when
the target label 30 is ready for mounting to a target base or other
device. The liner assembly 20 includes a paper or film liner 22, a
sizing coating 24, and a release agent which can be incorporated
into the sizing coating or applied as a separate release layer
26.
[0053] The liner assembly 20 includes a paper or film liner 22,
such as described above, and is shown including a sizing coating
24, and a release agent which can be incorporated into the sizing
coating or applied as a separate release layer 26. The coating
layer 24, which can also serve as a release layer, can be formed of
silicone, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyethylene terephthalate,
polyamide, polyacrylonitrile, or the like. When the coating layer
24 does not have sufficient release properties, a separate release
layer 26 formed of silicone or another suitable release material
can be included.
[0054] During use, the release assembly 20 is removed from the
target label 30 to expose a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 32,
used to secure the target label 30 to a mounting device. The target
label 30 includes a colored substrate 40 having a first color. The
colored substrate 40 can be a single layer 42 of paper or plastic
film, or can include additional layers, such as the illustrated
layers 44, 46 and 48. The layer 42 can be a colored paper or
plastic film having the first color imparted by dyeing or otherwise
pigmenting the paper or plastic film during its manufacture, and
does not require application of an ink layer. The colored substrate
40 can again be devoid of ink layers. The paper layer can be
selected from a wide variety of commercially available colored
papers that have suitable thickness and integrity to serve as a
substrate for a target label. When a colored plastic is used for
layer 42, the plastic can be selected from low density
polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, polypropylene,
polyester, polyamide, and a wide variety of other polymers having
suitable integrity at the desired thickness.
[0055] In alternative embodiments, the colored substrate 40 may
include additional layers, such as the illustrated layers 44, 46
and 48. In one embodiment, the layers 44 and 46 can be colored
paper or plastic layers, or both, having colors that are different
from each other and different from the first color of layer 42.
When multiple substrate layers with different colors are used, the
layers can be designed so that when a projectile hits the target, a
"starburst" or "halo" of multiple colors is observed around the
point of impact, as described below with respect to FIG. 15. The
colored substrate layers 42, 44 and 46 can be any combination of
colored paper layers, colored plastic layers, or both, as further
described below.
[0056] In another embodiment, the layers 42 and 46 can be colored
paper and/or plastic layers, having different colors. The
intervening layer 44 can be an adhesive layer designed to
facilitate separation between layers 42 and 46 in the region of
impact when a projectile penetrates the target label 30. The layer
44 can be any suitable adhesive, and can incorporate a release
agent, such as a silicone release agent. The release agent can be
used to control the adhesion between layers 42 and 46, and can
facilitate localized separation between layers 42 and 46 when a
projectile penetrates the target label 30. Suitable adhesives
include without limitation solvent-based adhesives based on
polyamide suspensions, polyacrylates, polyurethanes and the like,
as well as extrudable polyolefin-based adhesives and ionomers
having reactive functional groups.
[0057] In one embodiment, the layer 44 can incorporate a finely
dispersed glitter. Glitter particles can be formed of aluminum,
mica, malachite or the like, or can be formed of pigmented plastic
flakes. The use of glitter particles provides a sparkling effect,
thus enhancing the "starburst" or "halo" when a projectile
penetrates the target label 30.
[0058] The optional layer 48 of substrate 40 (shown above layer 42)
can similarly be a layer of glitter, or an adhesive layer that
contains glitter particles. The layer 48 can also be a layer of
toner having a color different from the color of layer 42, or can
be a layer of toner mixed with glitter. If the layer 48 is a toner
layer, then the toner color will be the first (front-facing) color
of the colored substrate 10. The layer 48 can also be combined with
a release agent, such as a silicone release agent, that facilitates
separation from the underlying colored layer 42 around the region
of impact, when a projectile penetrates the target 10. When the
layer 48 includes toner and/or glitter, the toner and/or glitter
particles can scatter around the region surrounding the penetration
by the projectile, simulating the visual appearance of gun
powder.
[0059] The colored substrate 40 has a back surface 41 and a front
surface 49, with the first color visible from the front surface 49.
The laminate label 30 may further include a transparent film 50
having a back surface 51 and a front surface 59. The back surface
51 of the transparent film 50 can be joined to the front surface 49
of the colored substrate 40 using an adhesive layer 53.
[0060] The transparent film 50 is suitably made of plastic, and can
contain multiple layers, illustrated as layers 55 and 57. The
plastic film layer(s) can be any transparent polymer material,
including without limitation biaxially oriented polypropylene,
linear low density polyethylene, ethylene vinyl acetate,
polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polyamide,
acrylic copolymers, and the like. The adhesive layer 53 can be
selected from a wide variety of suitable adhesives, including
without limitation solvent-based adhesives based on polyamide
suspensions, polyacrylates, polyurethanes and the like, as well as
extrudable polyolefin-based adhesives and ionomers having reactive
functional groups. The adhesive layer 53 can optionally contain
particles or flakes of glitter, as described above, provided that
the concentration of glitter particles or flakes is not so high as
to obscure the first color on the front surface 49 of colored
substrate 40.
[0061] The target label 30 includes at least one release layer or
agent 60 overlaying the front surface 59 of transparent film 50. In
the embodiment shown, a second release layer 62 separates the first
release layer or agent 60 from the toner layer 70, which defines an
image of a target. The first release layer or agent 60 facilitates
separation from the transparent film 50 and can be formed of or
include polytetrafluoroethylene, polyester, polyamide,
polyacrylonitrile, or a silicone polymer. The second release layer
62 facilitates separation of the toner layer 70 and is suitably an
ink layer as described above or a silicone polymer or a release
agent that includes a silicone polymer. The first release layer 60
can also be designed to facilitate release from both the
transparent film 50 and the toner layer 70, by incorporating a
release agent or agents (e.g. a silicone release agent) that is
suitable for both purposes, in which case the second release layer
62 may not be needed.
[0062] In one embodiment, the release layers 60 and/or 62 may not
be needed. The adhesion of toner layer 70 to transparent film 50 or
an intermediate ink layer can be optimized to facilitate separation
of the toner layer 70 using other techniques, including without
limitation optimizing the surface tension of the front surface 59
of transparent film 50 by proper material selection, corona
treatment to impart an electrostatic charge, and/or applying the
toner using an aqueous carrier as described above. Regardless of
the technique, the objective is to strike a suitable balance
between adhesion and release that enables the toner layer 70 to
remain intact until the target label 30 is struck by a firearm
projectile, at which time the ink and/or toner particles scatter
outward from the region of impact.
[0063] The toner layer 70 defines the shape of a target. As shown
in FIGS. 12 and 13, the toner layer 70 can have a first section 72
having a second color different from the first color, a second
section 74 having a third color different from the first and second
colors, and a third section 76 having a fourth color different from
the first, second and third colors. The first and second sections
72 and 74 are separated by at least one gap 73. The second and
third sections 74 and 76 are separated by at least one gap 75. The
first color of the front surface 49 of colored substrate 40 can be
viewed through the gaps 73 and 75. If the colored substrate 40 has
multiple layers with different colors, then it is desirable for the
first, second, third and fourth colors to be different from each
other and from each of the multiple layers of the colored substrate
40.
[0064] The toner layer 70 can be applied as a single layer having
multiple colors as shown. Alternatively, the toner layer 70 can
include multiple layers of toner to create the desired target
design. The toner layer 70 can optionally be overlaid with one or
more layers 80 and 82 of clear coating or varnish, shown only in
FIG. 13. Clear coatings and varnishes are conventional. Any
suitable clear coatings and varnishes can be used.
[0065] FIG. 14 illustrates a target label 30 after the target has
been penetrated by a projectile, leaving a projectile opening 90.
In this embodiment, the colored substrate 40 may have only one
colored paper or plastic film layer 42. By operation of the release
layer(s) 60 and/or 62 between the transparent film 50 and the toner
layer 70, an area 92 of toner layer 70 is displaced which exceeds
the diameter of the projectile opening 90. The contrasting first
color of the front surface 49 of colored substrate 40 is exposed
over the area 92, creating the visual impression of enhanced damage
when the projectile hits the target label 70. The scattering of
toner layer 70 over area 92 also contributes to a visual simulation
of gun powder burns in the area 92.
[0066] FIG. 15 illustrates a more complicated target label 30 after
the target has been struck and penetrated by a projectile. In this
embodiment, the colored substrate 40 may have multiple colored
layers 42, 44, 46 and/or 48 as described above, with appropriate
release agents existing in or between some of the layers, and/or
with glitter particles or flakes present in one or more layers. In
this embodiment, the area 92 has a multi-colored "starburst" or
"halo" image. The precise image will, of course, vary depending on
how many substrate layers are colored and/or contain glitter, the
specific materials used for the colored layers, the specific
colors, and the release properties between the colored layers. The
layers can be specifically designed so that the toner layer 70
displaces over the entire area 90, and the underlying substrate
layers of color and/or glitter displace over progressively smaller
areas. This requires proper selection of layer thickness, layer
materials, adhesive(s) and release properties between the
layers.
[0067] Variations of the embodiments described above are also
contemplated by the invention. In the simplest embodiment, the
transparent film 50 can be eliminated and the toner layer 70 can be
applied over the colored substrate 40, with appropriate release
layer(s) or release agent(s) underlying the ink layer and/or the
toner layer 70. In another embodiment, a release agent can be
included within the ink layer and/or the toner layer 70,
alleviating the need for a separate underlying release layer. The
colored substrate 40, as described above, is suitably devoid of ink
layers. As an alternative, one or more layers of the colored
substrate 40 can be formed by applying an ink layer on an
underlying paper or plastic film layer, and/or by including a
release agent within the ink layer. Other variations are also
possible.
[0068] The targets of this invention can be any suitable size and
secured to any suitable target structure or backstop, such as are
commercially available. The target can be adhered directly to a
surface of a target structure as a self-adhesive label, or can be
hung within a target structure in the same manner as current
non-adhesive paper targets.
[0069] The embodiments of the invention described herein are
presently preferred. Various modifications and improvements can be
made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims, and
all changes that fall within the meaning and range of equivalents
are intended to be embraced therein.
* * * * *