Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for accurately and safely directing the movement of shooting range targets, and more specifically, to provide self-calibration and synchronicity to programmable target carriers and automatically resetting targets.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a pair of support members, a cable, a rolling mechanism, a tackling bag and a pulley device. The pair of support members are fixedly coupled to a surface. The cable is attached to and extends between the pair of support members. The rolling mechanism is connected to the cable and configured to traverse the cable from a first end of the cable toward a second end of the cable. The tackling bag is attached to the rolling mechanism and configured to be propelled from one of the pair of support members toward the other of the pair of support members. The pulley device is coupled to the rolling mechanism and attached to the tackling bag. The pulley device is separated from the cable when the tackling bag is propelled from the one of the pair of support members toward the other of the pair of support members.

Abstract: An interactive target system including a first target assembly having a first target base operationally engaged with a first anchoring component, a first target surface rotatably engaged with, or fixed to, the first target base, a first spring adapted to bias the first target surface into the open position, a first electronics component having a first target GPS operationally engaged with the first target assembly, a first target strike status detector adapted to generate a first target strike count, and a first target electromagnetic signal transmitter and receiver, a first cooperating signal device having a first cooperating signal device GPS operationally engaged with the first cooperating signal device, a first cooperating signal device electromagnetic signal transmitter and receiver, a clock, and a first sound generator adapted to selectably generate a first notification sound.

Abstract: A portable, moving target system that generates variable movements and mimics movements of prey. Movement of the target system may be varied in speed and pattern.

Abstract: A portable, moving target system that generates variable movements and mimics movements of prey. Movement of the target system may be varied in speed and pattern.

Abstract: A mechanical roping steer apparatus for practicing roping of a steer may comprise a support assembly for resting on a ground surface, a rotatable wheel configured to contact the ground surface such that movement of the support assembly across the ground rotates the wheel, and a steer assembly connected to the support assembly. The steer assembly may comprise a frame having a spine structure, a hip structure movably mounted on the frame to move between first and second positions, and a leg structure movably mounted on the hip structure to move between forward and rearward positions, and including at least one leg member. The steer assembly may include an actuation assembly may be configured to move the leg member downwardly toward the ground surface during rearward movement of the leg member and move the leg member upwardly during forward movement of the leg member.

Abstract: Long-lasting targets that can be repeatedly used (e.g., shot with a firearm) are disclosed. In some embodiments, the target includes a base that optionally has wheels, at least one post assembly comprising a bottom end connected to the base and a top end, and a target body connected to the at least one post assembly. Optionally, the target body is comprised of a polyurethane. Optionally, the target includes two post assemblies and the target has an expanded position for use and a collapsed position for storage. Methods of preparing targets using a mold are also described herein.

Abstract: A target device for toy gun comprises a control circuit board, an isolation net, a metal sensing board, a first buffering board, a display board, and a second buffering board. The control circuit board is arranged inside an upper cover of a box. The isolation net is arranged at a front side of the control circuit board. The metal sensing board is arranged at a front side of the isolation net and electrically connected with the control circuit board. The first buffering board is arranged at a front side of the metal sensing board. The display board is arranged at a front side of the first buffering board and electrically connected to the metal sensing board and the control circuit board. The display board may display scores, flash lights, make a sound, and display numeral indications. The second buffering board is arranged at a front side of the display board.

Abstract: An apparatus and device are provided for a self-propelled roping training system. The apparatus includes an endless track comprising a plurality of corner sections, each of the plurality of corner sections comprising an arc length, a carriage assembly comprising a front slider assembly coupled with the track and a rear slider assembly coupled with the track, and a self-propelled vehicle coupled with the carriage assembly configured to follow a path defined by the endless track.

Abstract: A shooting target management system and related methods are provided. The system includes at least one target dispensing device having a plurality of targets. A user control unit is in communication with the at least one target dispensing device and is positioned remotely therefrom. At least one switch is in communication with the user control unit, wherein at least one of the plurality of targets is dispensed from the at least one target dispensing device upon activation of the switch. A user identification (ID) device has a wireless communication system thereon for wireless communication with at least the user control unit. The user ID device stores a quantity of user ID information and a quantity of user target information, wherein at least a portion of the quantity of user target information is updated based on activation of the switch by the user.

Abstract: A target system includes a mannequin target and a mechanism coupled to the target which is moveable to allow the mannequin target to move between a retracted position and an upright position. A projectile impact detection system is coupled to the mannequin target to determine an impact of a projectile onto the mannequin target. The projectile impact detection system is configured to produce a signal as a result of a projectile impacting the mannequin target to allow the mechanism to position the mannequin target in the retracted position wherein the mannequin falls into the retracted position upon impact of the projectile on the mannequin target to simulate a fallen target. A controller that will move the mannequin target from the retracted position to the upright position when receiving a command from a remotely controlled host computer. Impact detectors that will detect and locate impacts from 360 degrees. Thermal signature generators that will produce human thermal signatures.

Abstract: An amusement game with a rotating target displays different targets to players on opposing teams. Players on each team throw objects at the targets to score points. The rotating target includes sensors that sense if the object hits the target.

Abstract: A shooting range target assembly and a method for moving and positioning the target in a controlled manner are disclosed. The assembly includes a conveyor line containing a carriage, a drive, a target assembly, a turning and positioning mechanism and a programmable logic for setting and controlling the movement of the carriage. Controlling the movement, positioning of the target and maintaining target position are accomplished by properly balancing a torque force applied onto a pulley wheel, a drag force applied by a detent assembly and a force applied by a brake. The assembly is configured for moving the target along the conveyor and turning it such that the front side, the back side or an edge faces the shooter.

Abstract: A transformable toy with an alterable exterior structure. The toy is constructed to transform from a non-rollable first shape to a second rollable shape. An interior structure inside the exterior structure includes two or more exterior wall portions that collectively define a sphere, the wall portions moveably coupled relative to each and actuated by a triggering mechanism reactive to a magnetic force that is initiated external to the toy, and a biasing member that effects a force which transitions the wall portions to control the exterior structure—from a non-rollable (e.g., half-sphere or the like) first shape to a rollable (e.g., sphere or the like) second shape. Without initiation of the magnetic force, the first shape is maintained. With initiation of the magnetic force, the first shape transforms to the second shape.

Abstract: An electronic moving target system and method, which users may aim and shoot various instruments at which can be configured to present rigid or flexible targets from a variety of different directions. The target system presents users with realistic moving targets which may be quickly and easily be replaced as needed. The moving target system is fully programmable by a user and may present a series of varying challenges to a marksman. The moving target system may include a target surface operatively connected to a control arm which is powered by a motor. The motor receives signals from a control box supplying instructions from a microcontroller.

Abstract: A mechanical roping steer apparatus for practicing roping of a steer may comprise a steer assembly having a front and a rear. The steer assembly may comprise a frame and a leg assembly mounted on the frame and including at least one leg member being movable with respect to the frame, the at least one leg member having a lower end movable along an arc. The steer apparatus may further comprise an actuation assembly configured to engage a ground surface below the steer assembly and move the at least one leg member when the steer assembly is moved across the ground surface. The steer apparatus may also comprise a rope deflection assembly configured to deflect a rope from looping about the at least one leg member for at least a forward portion of the arc of movement of the leg lower end.

Abstract: A bag tossing game comprised of a selectively rotatable wheel target suspended on a frame and controllable by an adjustable brake. As the game is played, players take turns tossing projectiles at the wheel target. As the projectiles contact the wheel, kinetic energy from the tossed projectile is imparted onto the wheel based on the speed and trajectory of the projectile which may, in turn, cause the wheel to rotate. Further, a projectile that lands on the wheel may also alter the weight distribution of previously tossed projectiles still on the wheel, which may be located in various bins formed along the wheel's circumference, thereby causing the wheel to rotate in either direction. Depending on the wheel's direction of rotation, previously tossed projectiles may slide off of the wheel, or conversely, keep other projectiles ‘in-play’, where they will be scored accordingly.

Abstract: An emergency stopping system for track mounted movable targets used divergent cables to stop a target trolley which has not been otherwise stopped before coming to the end of a track. As the trolley passes over the diverging cables, the cables are forced together, causing the trolley to dissipate kinetic energy.

Abstract: The present invention is a ground preparation apparatus for use in maintaining substantially uniformly soft and smooth soil while providing a movable roping target. The apparatus is usefully in avoiding the need to separately maintain ground to be used in roping practice while at the same time providing a moving roping target.

Abstract: A shooting target structure for a toy gun includes a hollow box and a target transmission device inside the box. The target transmission device includes a power member and a conveying member driven by the power member to move at least one target provided on the conveying member. The box has a buffer effect to prevent BB pullets from rebounding outward after shooting. The bottom of the box is inclined and has a pullet collection trough to collect the BB pullets automatically. The box is provided with a display unit and a sound member to cooperate with an electronic signal for the shooter to know whether the target is hit or not and to know the scoring. The present invention is convenient and practical and amusing for shooting.

Abstract: The current inventive technology is generally directed to an improved animal roping form representing an improved training system applicable to various animal roping activities. Some embodiments of the inventive technology may include, for example, an animal form (2), a tractable leg element (3), a joint element (4) and a resilient torsion control joint connection (5) that may facilitate the tension coupling of the leg element (s0 to said animal form to more realistically mimic a live animal movement and resistance. In addition, some embodiments may include support attachment element (6) coordinated with a support element (8) allowing, for example such animal form to be suspended or conveyed to approximate animal movement to create a realistic roping training system. Further embodiments may have a knee joint (16) to more fully replicate the anatomical movements of a real animal leg joint.

Abstract: An emergency stopping system for track mounted movable targets used divergent cables to stop a target trolley which has not been otherwise stopped before coming to the end of a track. As the trolley passes over the diverging cables, the cables are forced together, causing the trolley to dissipate kinetic energy.

Abstract: The system includes a rotation disengagement mechanism configured to disengage a rotatable shaft from a powered drive unit such that upon disengagement the powered drive unit is no longer able to rotate the shaft. After disengagement, the rotatable shaft may reengage the powered drive unit at only one rotational position relative to the rotation disengagement mechanism. A target coupled to the shaft is thus always in a known home position. The systems and methods further comprise smart positioning logic that assigns a number designation to four rotational orientations spaced 90° from one another.

Abstract: The “Vehicle Tracking System and Game” integrates a GPS navigation system with invention specific hardware and software. A user installs a mobile unit on his race vehicle which features software allowing a processor connected to the electronics of the user's vehicle to communicate with an inertial navigation system which collects racing information, with a remote database which features software for various interactive real-time or virtual GPS Racing Games and processing the racing information of all users, and with a GPS system in real time. The mobile unit collects, processes, saves and transmits user specific racing information continuously throughout the game. This racing information is data of racing performance parameters specific to the game subscribed for by the user. The database processes and evaluates the received racing information, offsets this information with the users' basic input data and compares the information of all users.

Abstract: A calf roping training apparatus incorporating a simulated calf, a support column and a towing structure. The support column has a spin joint and an invert joint. The calf body of the simulated calf is formed by one or more pieces of simulated skin and a simulated head fixed in anatomical form by a body frame. The support column is anchored to the towing structure. The towing structure has a tow member, a pair of long skids, a short skid, and a towing attachment device. The support column base is attached to the short skid which provides for transfer of the weight of the simulated calf to the ground. The support column top is attached to or integrated with the body frame.

Abstract: An emergency stopping system for track mounted movable targets used divergent cables to stop a target trolley which has not been otherwise stopped before coming to the end of a track. As the trolley passes over the diverging cables, the cables are forced together, causing the trolley to dissipate kinetic energy.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an amusement device, the amusement device having: a display device rotatably mounted to a structure, the display device being configured to create a plurality of images via a persistence of vision effect; a device for rotating the display device; a sensor for determining whether an object has hit one of the plurality of images; a microcontroller in operable communication with the sensor and the display device, the microcontroller changing the appearance of at least one of the plurality of images when the sensor determines that an object has hit at least one of the plurality of images.

Abstract: A moving, shooting, video recording, human-appearing combat training machine comprising of three major components referred to as the mobile base unit, the target body and an unattached control system is provided. The base unit has a chassis plate driven by a plurality of motors and a plurality of wheel assemblies within an exterior armor which protects internal components of the chassis from projectile impacts. The target body mounts to an extension plate affixed to the underside of the chassis plate of the base unit, creating an overall human appearing subject that moves in varying directions. The combat training machine returns fire by shooting projectiles while recording video with an electronic or mechanical sighting system for target and video playback for training analysis.

Abstract: An apparatus for playing a game is provided. The apparatus may include a base, a plurality of projectiles and a first target platform moveable with respect to the base. The first target platform may include a collecting position, in which the plurality of projectiles are collected at the first target platform, and a dispersing position, in which the plurality of projectiles are dispersed from the first target platform. The apparatus may further include an actuator mechanism configured to actuate movement of the first target platform from the collecting position to the dispersing position and a first launcher attached to the base and configured to project the plurality of projectiles toward the first target platform.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a game in which players launch, shoot, or propel objects at a target, and more specifically, to a game in which players launch, shoot, or propel objects in an attempt to attach the objects to a target that may be in motion, or to dislodge objects that are hanging from the target.

Abstract: A roping practice apparatus for realistically simulating motion of the head of an animal to train a roper in roping skill. The roping practice apparatus includes: a steering unit drivable and rotatable by a power source; a transmission section rotatable in response to the rotation of the steering unit, the transmission section having a first end mounted on the steering unit and a second end; a universal actuator to which the second end of the transmission section is pivotally connected; and a driven section mounted on the universal actuator and rotatable in response to the rotation of the transmission section. A head model is connected with the driven section and drivable by the driven section to swing back and forth and left and right within a range of 360°.

Abstract: A moving target system for defensive training includes an elongated ground-based track defining a track axis, a trolley operable to move along the track, the trolley having a target support facility, a driver operable to move the trolley along the track, and the target facing in a direction angularly offset from perpendicular to the track axis. The target support facility may be operable to fall from a vertical position when the trolley reaches an end of the track. There may be an actuator operably connected to the driver to initiate movement of the trolley when actuated.

Abstract: A mobile disc golf target comprising a vehicle carrying a disc golf target assembly. A propulsion means and a steering means are operably associated with the vehicle, with the propulsion means operable to propel the vehicle across a surface and the steering means operable to direct the vehicle across the surface. A controller receives instructions from a command and is operably associated with the propulsion means and steering means of the vehicle to influence the vehicle's speed and direction. The steering means of the mobile platform may comprise a differential steering arrangement or a conventional steering arrangement. The controller may receive instructions from a command comprising wireless or tethered user-operated or computer-operated transmitter. A connector facilitates the removable attachment of the target assembly to the vehicle and may be self-righting to ensure that the target assembly remains substantially upright when the vehicle traverses non-level terrain.

Abstract: A remotely controlled, motorized shooting practice platform is described that includes a chassis with a bottom wall having an upper surface, and a removable top wall with an upper surface; a plurality of wheels carried on fixed axles supporting the chassis; a plurality of DC powered motors operatively attached to the axles, whereby the wheels rotate when the motors are energized; a battery mounted on the bottom wall upper surface; a controller mounted on the bottom wall upper surface for controlling the amount of current from the battery to each of the motors; a receiver mounted on the bottom wall upper surface providing control signals to the controller; a transmitter remote from the chassis to transmit control signals to the receiver; target attachment means mounted upon the top wall upper surface of the chassis; and a target extending about the chassis and attached to the chassis with the target attachment means.

Abstract: Reactive targets and target frames are provided that react to being impacted by a projectile in such a manner as to cause longitudinal movement and/or rotation of the target frame. The movement, in turn, exposes different primary targets and/or a secondary target(s) to the participant. Participants can take either offensive shots against the competitor's targets or defensive shots to protect their targets from being impacted by the competitor.

Abstract: A small arms training target system including a portable, battery powered, rail guided, motor driven carriage, with stationary and moving targets connected thereto. A target-rotate control device operatively connects an electric motor and rotational arm assembly to rotate and position the target into and out of a field of view. The position is selectable by a remote control, pre-selected program, or when a sensor attached to the target is struck by a sensor. Additionally an obscuring medium is attached to the rotational arm, with a target, having on it an image of a weapon mounted behind the obscuring medium. The position of the obscuring medium is selectable to be in front of the image of a weapon, making the target a no-threat, or not in front of the target, making it a threat.

Abstract: A moving target system for defensive training includes an elongated ground-based track defining a track axis, a trolley operable to move along the track, the trolley having a target support facility, a driver operable to move the trolley along the track, and the target facing in a direction angularly offset from perpendicular to the track axis. The target support facility may be operable to fall from a vertical position when the trolley reaches an end of the track. There may be an actuator operably connected to the driver to initiate movement of the trolley when actuated.

Abstract: A method and gaming device, such as a slot machine, is disclosed that generates a spin results which are used to determine a player's progress toward a secondary or overall game objective. The secondary game objective may include completing a set or a collection. A game objective may instruct a player to attempt to assemble a picture or image. Portions of the complete image may be displayed on a first game area, such as the reel area of the gaming device. A player executing a spin on the gaming device may acquire or utilize portions of the image as they occur in the context of a reel-based game. Image portions may “occur” when they appear on the gaming device payline as part of a traditional reel-based game. The image portion may be utilized on a second game area of the gaming device (e.g. a screen located above the gaming device reel area) in order to depict progress toward the secondary game objective of completing the image.

Abstract: A target apparatus including a portable case; a target; and a drive contained within the portable case, the drive having a drive shaft accessible through an access opening in a side of the portable case. When the target is connected to the drive shaft for rotation relative to the portable case, the portable case provides stable support to the target apparatus.

Abstract: Shooting gallery devices and methods are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a shooting gallery includes a plurality of targets rotatably connected to a plurality of target connectors. The targets rotate between an extended position and a fallen position. The target and target connector assembly at least partially retains the targets in the extended position and/or prevents the targets from rotating from the extended position to the fallen position. Furthermore, the targets and target connector assemblies are configured to reset from the fallen position to the extended position without a rail guide or reset cam.

Abstract: A method and device for use in resistance training is provided. A first version includes a saddle that supports the lower back while an exercise subject extends and then hyper-extends the subject's vertebral column. A second version includes a foot bar against which the subject applies force from the foot or lower leg while extending, hyperextending the subject's vertebral column. A third version includes a knee bar against which the subject pulls while extending, hyperextending and contracting the subject's vertebral column.

Abstract: A dart board game with a rotatable target for magnetic darts may include an target skin easily replaceable or reversible by a game player. Controls for an electric motor for rotating the target may be operable during game play by the magnetic darts when properly thrown may be include buttons for changing speed or direction or doing so randomly. A button may cause the changes to apply for a subsequent player.

Abstract: A thermal signal generating device, including at least two parallel buss bars operable for carrying a current and a heating element having at least a first region and a second region. The heating element includes a plurality of horizontal traces and a plurality of vertical traces. Widths of each of the plurality of horizontal and vertical traces may be greater in a first region of the heating element than in a second region of the heating element, allowing for a gradient heat differential to be emitted by the heating element.

Abstract: A roping practice apparatus includes a base and at least one wheel rotatably mounted to the base about a horizontal wheel axis oriented transverse to the base and below the top surface of the base, the wheel defiling at least one slot extending from a rim of the wheel toward the wheel axis. The rim of the wheel extends above the top surface of the base. An upper portion defines a wheel well on a bottom surface thereof, and is configured such that the wheel extends upward into the wheel well. The upper portion is supported above the base such that a gap is formed between the upper portion and the base. The wheel is configured such that a selected object drawn through the gap enters the at least one slot on the wheel and causes the wheel to rotate. A retainer mechanism is operative to prevent the upper portion from moving upward away from the base.

Abstract: A motorized moving target device having a chassis with an attachable animal model is able to travel in a circuitous path, enabling hunters to practice bow hunting at any time.

Abstract: A mechanical roping steer apparatus for practicing roping of a steer is disclosed that comprises a support assembly for engaging the ground surface and a steer assembly mounted on the support assembly. The support assembly may comprise a main frame and a pair of lateral skids mounted on the main frame, and the pair of lateral skids may each be pivotable with respect to the main frame. In some embodiments, the steer assembly includes a frame and a body covering assembly mounted on the frame and configured to move with respect to the frame in response to movement of the steer assembly across the ground surface. In some embodiments, the steer assembly comprises includes a frame and a head assembly mounted on the frame and configured to move with respect to the frame in response to movement of the steer assembly across the ground surface.

Abstract: A target mechanism for shooting, including a base unit and a target body which is movably connected to the base unit. The base unit includes elements for moving the target body from a first position to a second position. The second position is an optional position based on at least a signal to the moving elements. A base unit in a target mechanism including elements for moving a target body from a first position to a second position. The base unit includes a control unit arranged to generate at least a signal to the elements for moving the target body to the second position based on the at least a signal.

Abstract: A moving target practice apparatus adapted to be used in the home or easily portable by a user, and increasing the challenge to a user by creating unpredictable and moving targets, including moving target areas disposed on the front of the apparatus comprising a series of apertures that align to create an opening at various intervals in time to receive a projectile and/or a series of moving toppling targets traveling around the apparatus which are automatically resetable to an upright position once hit by a projectile.

Abstract: A target moving configuration includes a weighted base, a shooter's target, a target-moving assembly rotationally connected to the base and a hinge pivotally connecting the target thereto. A target-fall control device operatively connects the hinge to selectively pivot the target when activated. The control device has a balloon, a lock with a removable key, and a pull cord connecting the balloon to the key, which cord holds the key in the lock while the balloon is intact. A target motion device has a drive shaft, a drive cord connected to the target moving assembly and the drive shaft. An electric motor is connected to the drive shaft for rotating the drive shaft. A controller is operable to selectively and randomly power the motor to, thereby, move the target movement arm with respect to the base. Multiple targets and assemblies are provided and connected to the drive shaft for independent movement.

Abstract: A fixed and portable, remote controlled moving target system to train shooters in marksmanship and correct target recognition comprising supported target assemblies on horizontal cables which are connected to vertical support assemblies. The targets are driven by an operator programmable, electronically controlled, computer based motor drive assembly. The targets are positioned by the operator inputs and the positions of the targets at start and during their movements behind an obscuring medium are programmed into the system. Once inputted into memory, the program can be replayed until it is overwritten. The targets exhibit humanoid movements owing to their unique suspension system and cable attachments.