Handling Or Manipulation (e.g., Target Positioning Means) Patents (Class 273/406)
  • Patent number: 11852446
    Abstract: A ruggedized holder has a base unit that accepts a roll of target media. The base unit includes a first side plate and a second side plate that opposes the first side plate. Moreover, a lower deflector plate having a front facing surface extends between the first side plate and the second side plate. Also, the base unit includes an upper deflector plate that extends between the first side plate and the second side plate above the lower deflector plate. The first side plate, the second side plate, the lower deflector plate and the upper deflector plate define an enclosure that protects the roll of target media. In addition, a stand can couple to the base unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: Evolve Range Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas Lee Hague, William Charles Flock
  • Patent number: 11297801
    Abstract: A lure coursing system for the enjoyment of domesticated animals comprising: a motorized drive unit disposed at a first location, the motorized drive unit including a drive housing enclosing a drive pulley operatively connected to a motor; a transfer unit disposed at a second location, the transfer pulley unit including a transfer housing enclosing a transfer pulley; a lure line engaging the drive pulley and the transfer pulley so as to form a continuous loop configuration for the lure line; and a lure attached to the lure line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: Swift Paws, Inc.
    Inventors: Meghan Wolfgram, John Ritter
  • Patent number: 10792549
    Abstract: A basketball training assembly includes a cart that is rollable along a support surface. The cart can be positioned a selected distance from a basketball hoop on a basketball court. A lift is coupled to and extends upwardly from the cart. The lift is turned on to extend a predetermined distance upwardly from a home position on the cart. A barrier is coupled to the lift and the lift lifts the barrier the predetermined distance from the home position when the lift is turned on to simulates a defensive basketball player. A plurality of motion sensors is each coupled to the barrier to sense motion of a basketball player approaching the barrier. The lift is turned on when one or more of the motion sensors senses motion. Thus, the lift lifts the barrier when the basketball player approaches the barrier to take a shot during basketball practice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Inventor: John Rivers
  • Patent number: 10688362
    Abstract: A basketball shot practice station with movable positioning of the backboard and basket relative to a stationary shooting position of a user. A projection-mapped court image is projected on the floor of the station from the viewpoint of the user based on the basket position. Cameras image the shooter and the ball flight. A control system analyzes the shooter's technique and ball trajectory, categorizes the shot results, and automatically adjusts the basket position to produce a given success rate by the user. It stores a profile of each user, and updates the user's shooting statistics and skill level based on the shot results of each session. It initializes the profile with a default skill level based on initial input data. It may estimate a user's age, height, and strength based on their image and weight. It increases the shot distance and backboard angles with increasing skill level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Inventor: Gabriel Joshua Sangalang
  • Patent number: 10286277
    Abstract: A baseball training device for allows a catcher to easily slide back and forth behind home plate so as to give the pitcher a better target and thus improve his or her technique and accuracy when it comes to the game. The baseball training device is used with a bucket having a bottom surface and an open top, the top having a circumference of a given diameter, the device having a frame with two parallel rails spaced a predetermined distance apart along their length; and a platform attached to said parallel rails, the platform having a top surface and a width that spans said predetermined distance between said parallel rails, so that the platform is movable along said length of said rails, the platform having a groove with a circumference approximately the same as the circumference of the top of the bucket for receiving the top of the bucket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Inventor: Kaylyn B. Zierke
  • Patent number: 10107600
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to firearm or gunnery training system. More particularly relates to a device and method for providing multiple movements of a target for firearm or gunnery practice. The device (20) comprising a frame unit (8) configured to accommodate a drive mechanism (28), which is configured to rotate a first shaft (1) within a first predetermined range of angle. The frame unit (8) comprises more than one face and at least one of the faces is configured as a base for the device (20). The device (20) further comprises a target holding bracket (6) removably connectable to a target (10) at one end (6a) and a holder mating block (5) at other end (6b). Also, an eccentric target holder (3) is removably connectable to the first shaft (1) at a first end (3a) and a holder mating block (5) at a second end (3b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Inventors: Kishore Dutt Atluri, Ravi M. Kumar
  • Patent number: 9927215
    Abstract: A target system designed to be stand-alone and modular which includes a target area which is two or more sided and which can be rotated through a large number of different positions and rotations. The system can also include systems for projectile impact recognition. Target rotation is generally accomplished through a target base that is in communication with and configured to receive data input from a remote target controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2018
    Assignee: TS Founders, LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth Harris, Aaron Brookhart, Brandon Hefer, Justin Snell
  • Patent number: 9702666
    Abstract: A retrievable target assembly is provided that comprises a retrievable target and a string. The retrievable target includes a pyramid shaped portion from which extends an enlarged portion. The pyramid shaped portion includes a vertex portion and the string has a pulling end and a connecting end and the connecting end is secured to the vertex portion. The user throws the retrievable target in any desired direction and as far as desired. Then the user tugs on the string such that the vertex portion faces the user. The user shoots arrows into the retrievable target and when done, pulls the string to return the retrievable target so that the arrows can be removed from the target. The user removes the arrows and repeats the process again. The user may be sitting, standing, or standing in a tree stand. The retrievable target is differently shaped in other preferred embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Inventor: David R Meyne, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9631905
    Abstract: A stationary target shooting system includes a main body having a horizontal member, a vertical member, and a base. The horizontal member is coupled to a first end of the vertical member. The base is coupled to a second end of the vertical member. At least one paper target holder is disposed on the horizontal member. At least one non-paper target holder depends from the horizontal member. The stationary target shooting system is portable and can be easily broken down and reassembled for use on a variety of surfaces. The stationary target shooting system may be adapted for target shooting with both firearms and archery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Trilogy Targets Creations, Ltd.
    Inventor: Michael Doria
  • Patent number: 9303959
    Abstract: A stationary target shooting system includes a main body having a horizontal member, a vertical member, and a base. The horizontal member is coupled to a first end of the vertical member. The base is coupled to a second end of the vertical member. At least one paper target holder is disposed on the horizontal member. At least one non-paper target holder depends from the horizontal member. The stationary target shooting system is portable and can be easily broken down and reassembled for use on a variety of surfaces. The stationary target shooting system may be adapted for target shooting with both firearms and archery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: TRILOGY TARGETS CREATIONS, LTD
    Inventor: Michael Doria
  • Patent number: 9157706
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Joseph Shea
  • Patent number: 9044005
    Abstract: The present device relates to a remote control target supporting device, and in particular to a device with an improved chassis and decoy supporting features. According to one embodiment of the present device, the device has a frame with multiple pieces that is selectedly extendable and retractable along a central longitudinal axis. A front axle is connected to the front of the frame, and is fully swivel-able relative thereto. The front axle supports turnable wheels and a steering controller. A motor assembly, power supply and receiver are at the rear of the frame with a rear axle that supports the rear wheels. Preferably two target connectors are provided, and are movably supported by the frame. The target connectors have at least one vertically mounted rod upon which decoys or targets can be mounted in virtually any angle or presentation to the shooter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2015
    Inventors: Wayne A. McGregor, Daniel D. Orr
  • Patent number: 9010760
    Abstract: Shooters must presently take their firearms out of their hands to then manually actuate a new target into shooting position. This Target Apparatus will allow the shooter to shine his laser light, infrared light, flashlight, or multi-spectrum light onto a Target Apparatus-mounted sensor that engages a drive means mounted upon the target frame that then forwards a new target into position without removing the firearm from its' shooting position. The unit also uses a unique target backing material that does not require targets to be made of rolls of coated or heavy material stock. The system can utilize rolls of cash register paper, cut sections of gift wrapping paper, hand towel rolls, or even paper towels as target materials without snagging and preventing the next target from being presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventor: Edward Lee McMillan, III
  • Patent number: 8997363
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Paragon Tactical, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Rahmanian, Armin J. Koroghli, Arthur R. Fransen
  • Patent number: 8910944
    Abstract: A shooting practice target that includes a roll with an elongated sheet having multiple images. The sheet is movable across a shooting zone formed in a frame. The sheet is movable across the shooting zone to position each of the images for use as a target. A back support may be positioned behind (away from the user) the sheet to support and position the images for viewing by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Inventor: Russell Eugene Mason, III
  • Patent number: 8905872
    Abstract: A sport goal movement system that includes drive and control systems. The drive system preferably includes a motor that selectively drives one of a wheel or a track. The drive system can be integrated with and/or permanently or removably secured to the sport goal assembly. Operation of the drive system effectuates single user unassisted and possibly remote translation of the sport goal assembly relative to a ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Nelson Ennis
  • Patent number: 8814642
    Abstract: Ball games apparatus for use by two or more players, comprises a playing wall with a plurality of targets arranged across at least one face of said playing wall, each target having a particular value associated therewith. In use, a player aims by kicking or throwing a ball or the like at the playing wall and scores points to the value of the target that is struck. The targets may correspond to balls of a conventional pool or snooker game, providing a similar scoring system to the table-based game but at the same time encouraging participation in physical activity. Added complexity is provided by means of ground markers randomly selected to denote which of a series of positions relative to the playing wall from which a player takes aim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Playinnovation Limited
    Inventor: Marco Boi
  • Publication number: 20140232068
    Abstract: A target system includes a blocking plate with one or more openings through which bullets are fired and one or more targets for being struck by the bullets disposed behind the blocking plate and generally in line with the one or more openings. The target system may include a hinge mechanism which limits the range of movement of the target after it has been struck by a projectile. The hinge mechanism may also provide for tool less attachment and removal of the targets from the hinge mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: Action Target Inc.
    Inventors: Blaine Henson, Jeffrey Turner
  • Patent number: 8777226
    Abstract: A proxy target system provides, in the exemplary embodiment, a plurality of cover barriers and proxy barriers. Each cover barrier is sized and configured for allowing at least one shooter to selectively take cover therebehind. Each proxy barrier is associated with a corresponding one of the cover barriers. Each of the cover barriers provides a means for tracking the associated shooter when positioned therebehind. Relatedly, each of the proxy barriers provides an at least one target positioned therebehind and configured for mimicking the movement and exposure of the shooter relative to the associated cover barrier. Thus, with the proxy barriers positioned a distance downrange from the corresponding cover barriers, two or more shooters may position themselves behind respective cover barriers and engage in a shootout with one another by shooting at each other's downrange targets rather than directly at one another, thereby eliminating any risk of injury or death.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Robert Hubert Decker, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8684361
    Abstract: A target system includes a blocking plate with one or more openings through which bullets are fired and one or more targets for being struck by the bullets disposed behind the blocking plate and generally in line with the one or more openings. The target system may include a hinge mechanism which limits the range of movement of the target after it has been struck by a projectile. The hinge mechanism may also provide for tool less attachment and removal of the targets from the hinge mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Action Target Inc.
    Inventors: Blaine Henson, Jeffrey Turner
  • Publication number: 20130341869
    Abstract: A target shot placement apparatus and methods thereof are described according to the teachings of the present invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventor: Jonathan D. Lenoff
  • Patent number: 8608169
    Abstract: A portable target apparatus for use in target practice is provided. The target may be comprised of metal, for example steel. The target includes a base frame and a target plate that is attached to the base frame. Upon being struck by a projectile, the target plate rotates about the base frame into a knocked down position. One or more sensors sense the target is displaced into the knocked down position and a reset mechanism drives the target plate back to the initial position. The base frame of the target apparatus is of hollow construction, thereby making the target portable with relative ease.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventors: John Saunders, Ian Root, Eldon Goates
  • Patent number: 8579294
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Action Target Inc.
    Inventors: Tom Wright, Ernest John, David Bassett, Dustin Harding, Mike Long
  • Patent number: 8556269
    Abstract: A reactive target for firearms is disclosed. The target may include a center, four legs, and four heads. Each of the four legs may comprise an exterior end and radially extending from proximate the center to the exterior end. Each of the four heads may connect to the exterior end of a different leg of the four legs. Each of the four heads may also provide at least one target surface withstanding, without degradation, multiple impacts from firearm-fired projectiles. When an appropriate head is hit by a projectile, the target may roll a discrete, incremental distance on a supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: B & B Steel Targets, LLC
    Inventors: Spencer B. Berger, Tyler T. Beck
  • Patent number: 8550465
    Abstract: A multifunction target actuator allows a bullet target to be selectively presented to a shooter such that a first side may be presented, a second side opposite the first side may be presented, and the target may be oriented so as not to be presented to the shooter. The actuator allows for quick and accurate movement of the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Action Target Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Wright, Thomas Marshall, Kyle Bateman
  • Patent number: 8534672
    Abstract: Describe herein is a target apparatus that includes a base with a flat surface and a rocker assembly. The rocker assembly includes a curved surface operatively disposed in rolling engagement with the flat surface. The rocker assembly also includes a target support that is configured for supporting a target thereon. The rocker assembly rolls on the flat surface in a first direction between an upright position and a lowered position. The rocker assembly has a weight sufficient to return the rocker assembly to the upright position from the lowered position. The target apparatus may be configured such that a target mounted on the target support moves in a direction toward or away from the front of the target apparatus or in a direction perpendicular to a direction that runs from the back of the target apparatus to the front of the target apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Challenge Targets, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas M. Brune
  • Publication number: 20130228975
    Abstract: A shooting practice target that includes a roll with an elongated sheet having multiple images. The sheet is movable across a shooting zone formed in a frame. The sheet is movable across the shooting zone to position each of the images for use as a target. A back support may be positioned behind (away from the user) the sheet to support and position the images for viewing by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Inventor: Russell Eugene Mason, III
  • Patent number: 8490978
    Abstract: Targets including bifacial target areas adjoining four planar extension arms that meet at a center and are set at angles of 109.5 degrees between adjacent arms. A method including providing a pair of symmetrical target portions each having two bifacial target areas adjoining extension arms that meet along a centerline. Slits are provided at centerline apexes, and the slits the two portions are merged. The two target portions are welded together along the merged slits. A method including positioning a target on a surface, with one extension arm projecting upward. A firearm is aimed at a face of the bifacial target area adjoined to the upwardly projecting arm. The firearm is fired to impact the face, the impact causing the target to flip into a new position The firearm is then aimed at a face of the bifacial target area adjoined to the new upwardly projecting extension arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Mike Rogers
  • Publication number: 20130130759
    Abstract: Ball games apparatus for use by two or more players, comprises a playing wall with a plurality of targets arranged across at least one face of said playing wall, each target having a particular value associated therewith. In use, a player aims by kicking or throwing a ball or the like at the playing wall and scores points to the value of the target that is struck. The targets may correspond to balls of a conventional pool or snooker game, providing a similar scoring system to the table-based game but at the same time encouraging participation in physical activity. Added complexity is provided by means of ground markers randomly selected to denote which of a series of positions relative to the playing wall from which a player takes aim.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: PLAYINNOVATION LIMITED
    Inventor: Marco Boi
  • Patent number: 8413991
    Abstract: Four paddles emanate from a central point that is substantially equidistant from the end of each of the four paddles. Three of the paddles are configured to be positioned on the ground at any one time in a three-point stance, causing the fourth paddle to be upright and perpendicular to the ground. The upright paddle serves as the target. When a shot hits the device above its center of gravity, the device flips, thus moving away from the shooter. Thus, the device automatically resets itself and moves to a new location, ready for the next hit. Preferably, each paddle is planar from near the central point to the paddle's distal end. Preferably each paddle also has a direction indicator. In a preferred embodiment, each paddle is about 5.5? long and the target is made of AR400 steel for practice with a 0.22 caliber bullet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Flippin' Critters, LLC
    Inventors: Cory Lee Sudbeck, Samuel John Goeden
  • Patent number: 8348734
    Abstract: A game system moves a player character in a virtual game space in accordance with an operation by a player. Further, the player character's moving amount per predetermined unit time is detected at each predetermined time interval. A predetermined parameter (gage amount) value is calculated at each predetermined time interval based on the moving amount detected at each predetermined time interval. Also, the game system adds the predetermined parameter value calculated at each predetermined time interval for accumulation. In response to a predetermined operation performed by the player, the game system causes the player character to perform a predetermined motion (e.g., special shot) on a condition such that a value obtained as a result of the addition reaches a predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Takahashi, Shugo Takahashi, Haruki Kodera, Yusuke Sugimoto, Toru Takamatsu, Toshiharu Izuno
  • Patent number: 8235390
    Abstract: An automated target assembly includes a target post, a target carriage carried by the target post, a target having a switch activation flange pivotally carried by the target carriage, a target linkage assembly engaging the target carriage, a power supply, a drive motor connected to the power supply and drivingly engaging the target linkage assembly and a target switch connected to the power supply and the drive motor within a travel path of the switch activation flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: Larry Spikes
  • Publication number: 20120175844
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes various embodiments of shooting target assemblies and associated systems and methods of use and manufacture. One aspect of the disclosure is directed to shooting target assemblies configurable in an assembled arrangement and a stowed arrangement. Another aspect of the disclosure is directed to shooting target assemblies having a stabilizer for improving target stability during operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: Battenfeld Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Russell A. Potterfield, Tim Kinney, Adam Birk, Robert J. Zara, Jim Gianladis
  • Patent number: 8172231
    Abstract: A target system providing various target arrangements is provided. The varying target arrangements provide different visual presentations to the shooter to increase the shooting experience. Various target arrangements include auto-resetting targets that do not require user input to reset. Further, one target arrangement is an active target that continuously changes its visual presentation to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Inventor: Douglas M. Massier
  • Patent number: 8162319
    Abstract: An omnidirectional target system includes a target movable between a retracted position and an extended position and an actuation mechanism for moving the target to the extended position, the target and the actuation mechanism being releaseable so that the target can be moved back into the retracted position despite movement of the actuation mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Action Target Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas Stincelli, Kyle Bateman, Tom Wright, David Bassett
  • Publication number: 20120091661
    Abstract: A multifunction target actuator allows a bullet target to be selectively presented to a shooter such that a first side may be presented, a second side opposite the first side may be presented, and the target may be oriented so as not to be presented to the shooter. The actuator allows for quick and accurate movement of the target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventors: Thomas Wright, Thomas Marshall, Kyle Bateman
  • Publication number: 20120043722
    Abstract: An intelligent shooting having features and props able to be control and monitored wirelessly and remotely is disclosed. Further novel shooting target designs are additionally disclosed herein having external power supplies configured therewith. In a preferred embodiment, a first target of the present invention can be rotated in either direction about a vertical axis to optionally simulate friendly or unfriendly target. Also in this embodiment the target can rotate about a horizontal axis to simulate an engaged or unengaged target, or target eliminated. The present invention also contemplates wireless control and monitoring of target range features such as lighting systems, feedback alarms, and motion sensors, in addition to scene props such as smoke and acoustical simulators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventors: Sergei Y. Mironichev, Christopher D. Mechling
  • Patent number: 8074994
    Abstract: A system includes a first cable support, a second cable support, a first cable and a second cable. The first cable is moveably mounted between the first cable support and the second cable support. The system also includes a supporting structure supported by the first cable and by the second cable, wherein the supporting structure is connected to the first moveable cable to move with the first moveable cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: The Partnership of Richard A. Delphia and Donald G. Clark
    Inventor: Richard A Delphia
  • Publication number: 20110291361
    Abstract: A ladder device suitable for use in the play of ladder ball. The ladder device includes a lower rung and a leg assembly connected to the lower rung. A middle arm is connected to the lower rung by middle arm members. An upper rung is connected to the middle rung by upper arm members. The device may be deployed in a game play configuration and also in a collapsed configuration. In the play configuration, legs extend below the lower rung, the middle rung is above the lower rung, and the upper rung is above the middle rung. In the collapsed position, the legs and the upper arms are adjacent to and parallel with the middle arm members. Preferably, the legs and upper arms have a length that is no longer than that of the middle arms, thereby facilitating a compact configuration when folded into the collapsed orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: SCOTT T. MOELLER, BRIAN D. NEELEY
  • Patent number: 8047546
    Abstract: A target holder assembly for interchangeably supporting a two-dimensional target and a three-dimensional target includes an enclosure and a target holder frame connected to the enclosure, the target holder frame including a cross arm member connected between two target arms. The cross arm has a base length with clamping members extending from both ends of the base length to engage three dimensional targets. The cross arm also has receiving grooves proximate the junction of the clamping members and the base length positioned to engage the two-dimensional targets. A front protrusion is positioned along the base length to engage either the two-dimensional target or the three-dimensional target. The holder assembly further includes a clamping apparatus connected to the base length to engage either the two-dimensional target or the three-dimensional target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Meggitt Training Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Joshua James Klein
  • Patent number: 8016291
    Abstract: A multifunction target actuator allows a bullet target to be selectively presented to a shooter such that a first side may be presented, a second side opposite the first side may be presented, and the target may be oriented so as not to be presented to the shooter. The actuator allows for quick and accurate movement of the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Action Target Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Wright, Thomas Marshall, Kyle Bateman
  • Patent number: 8006981
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Mike Gibson Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael H. Gibson
  • Publication number: 20110180997
    Abstract: An omnidirectional target system includes a target movable between a retracted position and an extended position and an actuation mechanism for moving the target to the extended position, the target and the actuation mechanism being releaseable so that the target can be moved back into the retracted position despite movement of the actuation mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventors: Nicholas Stincelli, Kyle Bateman, Tom Wright, David Bassett
  • Publication number: 20110175293
    Abstract: Describe herein is a target apparatus that includes a base with a flat surface and a rocker assembly. The rocker assembly includes a curved surface operatively disposed in rolling engagement with the flat surface. The rocker assembly also includes a target support that is configured for supporting a target thereon. The rocker assembly rolls on the flat surface in a first direction between an upright position and a lowered position. The rocker assembly has a weight sufficient to return the rocker assembly to the upright position from the lowered position. The target apparatus may be configured such that a target mounted on the target support moves in a direction toward or away from the front of the target apparatus or in a direction perpendicular to a direction that runs from the back of the target apparatus to the front of the target apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas M. Brune
  • Publication number: 20110140363
    Abstract: In a soccer goal consisting of a framework supporting a net arranged to trap a soccer ball passing through the mouth of the frame upon scoring a goal, a safety device for preventing the shifting of the framework from a playing field position or from tipping over from misuse or player impact consisting of a weighted roller attachable or attached to the rear of the framework and resting on the playing field opposite the mouth which roller is either permanently weighted by construction of a heavy material or is constructed of a sealed shell fillable with a liquid such as water or a flowable particulate substance such as sand. In addition to providing the necessary weight to stabilize the goal, the rollers facilitate the repositioning of the goal for storage or to clear a playing field for other purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: James H. Gravel
  • Publication number: 20110127724
    Abstract: The present document describes games using darts or arrows. More particularly, this description relates to targets and accessories used for new games.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Inventor: Jean BOUCHARD
  • Patent number: 7950667
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Parkway Holdings Limited
    Inventor: Michael Wing Haye Shum
  • Patent number: 7950666
    Abstract: An omnidirectional target system includes a target movable between a retracted position and an extended position and an actuation mechanism for moving the target to the extended position, the target and the actuation mechanism being releaseable so that the target can be moved back into the retracted position despite movement of the actuation mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Action Target Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas Stincelli, Kyle Bateman, Tom Wright, David Bassett
  • Patent number: 7946588
    Abstract: A practice ground for a bow and arrow hunter which allows the hunter selectively to position the target at various locations from a shooting area, to shoot arrows thereat, to retrieve the targets to ascertain the results, and to retrieve the arrows in the target, all without leaving the shooting area. The practice ground has a stand built into a tree simulating a field-type shooting area, a target, a target supporting tow line, and a plurality of stanchions with pulleys supporting and guiding the tow line. The tree stand includes a manual drive mechanism for moving the target to and from the hunter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventors: James Glen Hockman, Cletus Paul Hockman
  • Patent number: 7942420
    Abstract: The invention relates to sports and entertaining facilities and in particular to aqua shooting ranges. The inventive aqua shooting range comprises a pool (1), an above-water fence, shooting positions (9) with weapons and underwater targets (5). The pool is provided with a transversal partition (6) separating the shooting positions (9) from the underwater targets (5). Each partition (6) is provided with a firing port (8). An additional shooting position (20) for shooting from an above-water position to water is embodied on the partition (6). The above-water part of the pool wall placed above the underwater target (5) and the above-water fence is provided with bullet stoppers (11). The shooting position is located in such a way that the weapon vertical guidance angle is limited to a value equal to or greater than 10 degrees with respect to the horizon. The invention makes it possible to increase the safety, learning, and training efficiency of shooting at underwater targets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: DSG Technology AS
    Inventors: Andrey Albertovich Polovnev, Volodymyr Shaymukhametovich Khaziakhmetov