Abstract: A target reporting system utilizes a flexible target sheet having a target image thereon. Preferably, the sheet is positioned in a substantially planar configuration. A plurality of sensors affixed to the target sheet are arranged for detecting vibrations at selected locations on the sheet.In response thereto, a processor determines the location of a bullet strike (or other vibration-causing impact). A reporting element converts the calculated location to an absolute or relative position and reports it in a human voice-like signal to the target shooter.

Abstract: A ballistic impact indicator, for alerting a marksman that a bullet has struck a target, includes a vibration sensor mounted to an adjustable clamp for removably securing the vibration sensor to target board. The vibration sensor is electrically coupled by a connector cable to a controller circuit for operating a xenon flash tube strobe light. In response to a detection of an impact by the vibration sensor, the controller circuit generates a delayed trigger signal, the delay of which can be selected by the user between approximately 2 and 6 seconds, for triggering the strobe light. The controller circuit also causes the strobe light to flash repeatedly if either the vibration sensor or connector cable are hit by a bullet. The sensitivity of the vibration sensor is adjustable in accordance with the energy of the bullet and wind conditions. The strobe light and controller circuit are powered by a rechargeable storage battery to provide a portable unit.

Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus and method for determining projectile impact locations and, in a specific application, to determining a golfer's performance in using a particular club, such as a specific iron. The apparatus has an array of a plurality of vibration sensors distributed in a predetermined pattern in a target area, each of which generates a signal indicative of the sensing of vibration, a processor connected for receiving sensor signals generated and for processing received sensor signals for determining a location of projectile impact relative to the locations of sensors in the target area and for generating an electrical location signal, and a display connected with the processor for receiving the location signal and for displaying to an observer a representation of the location of projectile impact in the target area.

Abstract: This invention is an automatic gunnery system, responsive to airborne acoustic shock waves produced by a projectile passing through a target area. Curved elongated acoustic energy conductors are located adjacent to one side of said target area with acoustic transducers attached to the end portions thereof. Said transducers produce an electrical signal when a shock wave from the projectile reaches them through said energy conductors. Electrical signal from the transducers is connected to electronic circuitry which determines the location of each "hit" on or near the target which is registered on display means.

Abstract: A detection system for detecting darts which have missed the target in an electronically secored dart game is comprised of first audio sensor circuitry located proximate to the dart board target for detecting sounds created when a dart strikes either the dart board target or the housing in the vicinity of the target and generating an electrical signal upon the detection of such sounds. A second audio sensor circuit located remote from the target is employed for detecting sounds that simulate the sounds created when a dart strikes either the target or the housing in the vicinity of the target and for generating an electrical signal upon the detection of such simulated sounds. The outputs from the audio sensor circuitry are compared and an output comparison signal is generated only when a signal is received from the first audio sensor circuit in the absence of a signal from the second audio sensor circuit.

Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus and method for determining projectile impact locations and, in a specific application, to determining a golfer's performance in using a particular club, such as a specific iorn. The apparatus has an array of a plurality of vibration sensors distributed in a predetermined pattern in a target area, each of which generates a signal indicative of the sensing of vibration, a processor connected for receiving sensor signals generated and for processing received sensor signals for determining a location of projectile impact relative to the locations of sensors in the target area and for generating an electrical location signal, and a display connected with the processor for receiving the location signal and for displaying to an observer a representation of the location of projectile impact in the target area.

Abstract: The position of a projectile travelling at a supersonic velocity is sensed by two triangular arrays of transducers 10,11 which are located below and close to the plane of a target area 14 through which the projectile passes. Signals from the transducers are processed to obtain data indicative of the direction of the trajectory from each array. This data can be processed to obtain the position of the trajectory in a cartesian coordinate system.

Abstract: A retainer for use with a hit sensor in firing exercises with targets that are interechangeably arranged at a remote distance is formed with a piezoelectric element which within a recess of a clamping device is embedded in a molded insulating material and which is connected by a resistor to a connector cable. The resistor forms a design part of a plug adaptor member by which the connector cable may be connected to connector pins of the piezoelectric element.

Abstract: A novel missed-hit detection and player proximity detection system for an electronic, automatically scored projectile target game apparatus wherein the scoring system thereof is automatically deactivated whenever a player comes within a proscribed distance range from the game and wherein the impact of a projectile which misses the target, yet strikes the front of the game registers as a non-scoring "missed-hit" and is deducted from the number of remaining throws in that round.

Abstract: The minimum distance between a passing projectile and a training (dummy) target is ascertained by means of four shock wave responsive transducers in the target, two of which are aligned with the target's propagation and the transit time differential of receiving the shock wave from the projectile as well as measured distances to the projectile's trajectory are used to establish a set of possible projectile trajectories, one of them being the real one; all of them being arranged in rotational symmetry to the line established by the two transducers. This information suffices already to determine the minimum distance of fly by.

Abstract: A mechanism is disclosed for presenting a multiplicity of targets to a shooter in a firing range. The mechanism has a plurality of generally planar targets, each attached to a crank arm which, in turn, is attached to an actuating device. The device has an extendable and retractable ram which causes the crank arm to pivot during extension or retraction such that the target is moved between a lowered position, in which it is not visible to the shooter, to a raised position in which the target is visible to the shooter. The mechanism includes a remote control device to actuate one or more of the targets to minimize the presence of any personnel in a downrange position.

Abstract: A target system for laser marksmanship training devices is comprised of one or more photodetectors mounted on a target and sensitive to one or more pulses of the operating wavelength of a laser beam simulating the projectile of a weapon. An amplifier increases the power output of the photodetectors, and a frequency selective transducer is operated from the amplified output of the photodetectors. The transducer is attached and acoustically coupled to the target and produces a vibration signature simulating the vibration characteristics of a weapon-fired projectile striking the target. A microphone sensitive to the vibration signature of the transducer is acoustically coupled to the target, and a drive mechanism lowers the target out of the field of view of the weapon when the microphone receives a hit-indicating vibration signature from the transducer.

Abstract: A target bag to be towed has on its periphery arranged a plurality of pressure sensitive transducers for monitoring the trajectory of passing projectiles. The transducers are arranged to obtain overall omnidirectional response characteristics in relation to the center of the target.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in a firing range, in which transducers located adjacent the target area detect the airborne shock wave from supersonic projectiles. The position at which each projectile passes through the target plane is determined from the relative time of arrival of the associated shock wave at the transducers. A visual display of the target and the projectile position is provided for the use of range personnel.

Abstract: Disclosed is a target apparatus for realistically simulating battlefield conditions comprising an inflatable target capable of receiving repeated fire without deflating. The target is mounted on a trolley and moves along a predetermined path and can be rapidly inflated by a source of pressurized air and maintained in an inflated condition. At least one transducer is positioned within the target to detect the passage of a projectile through the target and to differentiate between different caliber projectiles based on their different pressure wave energy levels. An externally positioned projectile position detection apparatus may also be provided.

Abstract: A hit indicating system for a multiple target shooting range including individual normally closed impact sensor switches associated with each target and a conductor connecting each of the impact sensors in a series array. Discrimination and logic circuitry are provided for discriminating between hits and "friend" and "foe" targets and for indicating which one of several "friend" or "foe" targets has been struck when the system is used in a night fight simulation mode.

Abstract: A system for scoring targets with a control module and plurality of timer modules connected thereto. The control module generates start and stop signals and the timer modules count the number of hits on one or more targets and the time required to make an adjustable number of hits. Each hit is detected by an electrooptic sensor. The start signal can be generated by a sound, by a pseudo-random generator or by manual switch operation.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in a firing range, in which transducers located adjacent the target area detect the airborne shock wave from supersonic projectiles. The position at which each projectile passes through the target plane is determined from the relative time of arrival of the associated shock wave at the transducers. A visual display of the target and the projectile position is provided for the use of range personnel.

Abstract: A target for a rifle range has an upright with a rectangular opening adapted to be alternately occupied by two sheets carrying different target images. The sheets may be mounted back-to-back on a common support, such as a swingable frame, or may be interconnected to form an endless band led around rollers. The mounting frame can be internally equipped with electroacoustic or other sensors to serve as an impact-detecting chamber.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for training in marksmanship. The apparatus uses a computer to determine the position of strike of a projectile on a target and further detects a hit on the target, especially in the region of the edge of the target where the projectile position determination computer may produce some errors. The physical hit detection system of the present invention will "override" the computer in those instances where the projectile barely touches the edge of the target and the computer "sees" the projectile as having missed the target or vice versa.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for use in marksmanship training. The apparatus includes means for detecting and indicating a position in a measurement plane in the vicinity of a target through which a projectile passes. In addition, the apparatus includes means for measuring the velocity of the projectile in the vicinity of the target. The measured velocity is compared with a predetermined expected velocity to determine if the projectile passed through the measurement plane in free flight or if it had ricocheted prior to passing through the measurement plane. The apparatus will then afford the marksman both an indication of where the projectile passed relative to the target and an indication of whether the projectile has struck the target on a ricochet.

Abstract: A curved, elongate transducer assembly contacted by a shock or pressure wave transmits the resultant vibrations to the ends of the member, the vibrations at the respective ends being converted to output signals from which a time difference signal is produced. A computer calculates from the time difference signal the inclination angle of the projectile trajectory relative to a reference line. Two of the curved, elongate transducer assemblies at spaced locations permit calculation of two such inclination angles and, therefrom, the location at which the projectile trajectory passes through a reference plane. The transducer assembly may be a rigid bar with transducer elements at each end, or a single piezoelectric member with pickup electrodes at each end.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for indicating the location in a measurement plane through which a projectile passes. The apparatus includes an array of at least three transducers responsive to the airborne pressure wave produced by the projectile and positioned at predetermined locations along a line parallel to the movement plane. The apparatus further includes a device for measuring the velocity of the projectile and another for measuring the velocity of sound in air in the vicinity of the transducers. A computing means, responsive to the array of transducers, the velocity measuring means and the propagation of sound determination is provided which determines the location in the measurement plane through which the projectile passed and provides an output indicating that location. Also disclosed is a means, in combination with the position detecting means, for detecting and providing a positive indication of a projectile hit on a target member.

Abstract: A hit detection device for use in a marksmanship evaluation device for providing positive and negative reinforcement of shooting techniques immediately after each shot is fired. The hit detection device comprises a transducer spaced apart from a target member and detects and provides a hit indication output when the target is hit. In a preferred embodiment, the transducer in combination with electronic circuitry provide discrimination such that a hit indication output is only provided when the target member is actually hit by a projectile directly and no output is provided if the target is hit by a ricochet or is disturbed by any other external source such as the wind, sonic booms, etc. In a further preferred embodiment, the target member is three-dimensional and at least partially surrounds the transducer to shield the same from air pressure disturbances caused by projectiles passing by but not actually hitting the target member.

Abstract: A target apparatus, having a framework covered by sheets of material to form a chamber the sheets of material being penetrable by a projectile, such as a bullet, fired at the target. A plurality of transducers are positioned at respective spaced-apart locations within the chamber and lying on an arc of a circle, for detecting shock or pressure waves in the chamber caused upon penetration of the sheets of material by the projectile. Time differences between instants of detection of a shock or pressure wave by the transducers are measured, the location at which the projectile penetrated the sheet of material being determined from the time differences. Preferably, a bull's-eye or aiming mark is provided on the target, the center of which is aligned with the center of the circle on which the transducers lie. Apparatus is also disclosed for determining the speed of sound in air within the chamber, enabling the projectile penetration point to be determined with particular accuracy.

Abstract: A lightweight, portable apparatus which is foldable for storage and stackable when folded, and deployable to provide stable support for a planar target member for target shooting purposes. The apparatus has a generally box-like main frame of tubular members, including skid rails extending longitudinally of the main frame, upper longitudinal rails generally parallel to the main frame skid rails, upright members connecting the main frame skid rails and the upper longitudinal rails at least at the forward and rear ends of the main frame, and lower cross-bars extending transversely to and interconnecting the main frame skid rails.

Abstract: Indicator apparatus for determining the miss distance of a projectile in relation to a fixed or moving target, comprising pressure-sensing transducers intended to sense the pressure wave generated by the projectile in at least four points, and means for generating corresponding electrical signals therefrom. The apparatus further comprises computer circuits, calculating the distance to the point of origin of the wave, i.e. the so-called "bang generation point", in response to the characteristics of the pressure wave. This distance has been called the "miss distance" in previously known indicator apparatus, but in accordance with the invention the miss distance is defined as the shortest distance between the projectile and target, and one object of the invention is to indicate this distance and the exact position of the projectile when it is at the miss distance from the target.

Abstract: In a target equipment in which transducers are provided to detect the pressure wave generated by a projectile the transducers being connected to a timing and calculating device adapted to calculate from the time delays between the instants of reception of the pressure wave the trajectory of the projectile, a signal transmitter, comprising a spark generator, is used to transmit sonic signals which are detected by the transducers. The signal transmitter can be used to indicate the precise location or shape of the target and this information is stored in the computer memory.

Abstract: In a target equipment in which transducers are provided to detect the pressure wave generated by a projectile the transducers being connectead to a timing and calculating device adapted to calculate from the time delays between the instants of reception of the pressure wave the trajectory of the projectile, a signal transmitter, comprising a spark generator, is used to tansmit sonic signals which are detected by the transducers. The signal transmitter can be usd to indicate the precise location or shape of the target and this information is stored in the computer memory.

Abstract: Apparatus for training in marksmanship which provides positive and negative reinforcement of shooting techniques immediately after each shot is fired. The reinforcement may take a number of forms, preferably comprising a plurality of indications concerning each shot fired. The indications may comprise at least an approximate indication of where a projectile fired at a target has passed relative to the target and/or a positive indication of whether the projectile has actually hit the target and/or whether the projectile has ricocheted prior to reaching the zone of the target. Specific apparatus for performing each of these functions is disclosed. Indication may also be given concerning whether the trainee marksman is correctly gripping the weapon being fired.

Abstract: An improved ballistic impact sensing and display system is provided for use in conjunction with land or water ordnance ranges. A plurality of sensors placed around the target area detect the shock wave created by the impact or passage of the ballistic projectile. The sensors drive electronic timing means which record the time intervals between activation of the sensors by the propagating shock wave. Storage registers within the timing means drive a gridwork of display buses arranged along hyperbolic curves. A matrix of indicators bridging the points of intersection of the hyperbolic buses display the compartment within the target area in which the impact occurred. Additional indicators around the periphery of the matrix of indicators display the sector by which a projectile passed if it missed the target area.

Abstract: A target device for ascertaining the proximity of a hit to the target center comprises a plurality of transducers separated from one another in a space behind the target surface and positioned to respond to the impact shock at times determined by the sound propagation velocity in the air of this compartment. To increase the accuracy of the device, means is provided to provide an essentially constant temperature gradient (or uniform temperature) in the space or compartment and/or one sensor more than that required for determining the position of impact when the sound propagation velocity is known, is used.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in a firing range, in which transducers located adjacent the target area detect the airborne shock wave from supersonic projectiles. The position at which each projectile passes through the target plane is determined from the relative time of arrival of the associated shock wave at the transducers. A visual display of the target and the projectile position is provided for the use of range personnel.

Abstract: To determine the position of a bullet relative to a target an array of at least six transducers is provided, the transducers being in two parallel rows of three in a common plane. The instants of detection of the shock wave generated by the bullet are measured and the position of the bullet is calculated from the measured values.

Abstract: A computer controlled automatic target system is disclosed which may be implemented on a fixed range or selectively deployed in the field. The fixed range system utilizes land line connections to the target and hit sensor assemblies. The portable field control embodiment incorporates a radio adapter unit which provides a two-way telemetry link between the control console and the target and hit sensor assemblies. The targets are provided with a fixed base or a disk-shaped sled. The targets utilizing the sled are adapted to be pulled across the terrain by a winch system. Both target mounting systems incorporate a base shield adapted to protect the target control and hit sensor assemblies. The hit sensor subsystem registers hits by ammunition or laser beam. Data from the hit sensor and control of the target silhouette between an up or down position is accomplished via communication links between the targets and the control console.

Abstract: A hit detection device for use in a marksmanship evaluation device for providing positive and negative reinforcement of shooting techniques immediately after each shot is fired. The hit detection device comprises a transducer spaced apart from a target member and detects and provides a hit indication output when the target is hit. In a preferred embodiment, the transducer in combination with electronic circuitry provide discrimination such that a hit indication output is only provided when the target member is actually hit by a projectile directly and no output is provided if the target is hit by a ricochet or is disturbed by any other external source such as the wind, sonic booms, etc. In a further preferred embodiment, the target member is three-dimensional and at least partially surrounds the transducer to shield the same from air pressure disturbances caused by projectiles passing by but not actually hitting the target member.