Abstract: A mechanised ballistic target presents a hinged target plate which is knocked down out of sight when hit by a bullet and the shock of the bullet impact on the plate is absorbed pneumatically by a rubber suction cup which the plate strikes; the suction cup has an air leakage passage defined by a capillary tube which sets a time delay before the suction cup releases the target plate to allow a spring to return the target plate to a ready position for the next shot.

Abstract: An archery target method and apparatus including providing a stationary target for an archer shooting an arrow to initiate a moving target. The apparatus senses a hit on the stationary target and initiates a delay sequence. After counting down the delay sequence which allows the archer to reload a bow with a second arrow, the apparatus begins to move a moving target across a target range allowing the archer to fire at the moving target with the second arrow. The apparatus senses when the moving target reaches the end of the target range and stops the moving target at the end of the target range. The apparatus then resets the archery target to return across the target range when the second stationary target shot impacts the target. At this same time, the timing sequence is initiated again, thus repeating the alternating stationary and moving target shots. This sequence allows the archer both left to right and right to left moving targets as well as stationary target shots.

Abstract: A hand-held multi-function target presentation control system with interchangeable operator control modules for communicating with at least one wireless target control modules. The operator control module having a user interface for selectively controlling a plurality of stations, each station having at least one target launch machine, for inputting and tracking a plurality of shooters, and for inputting a target launch sequence and a score for each shooter.

Abstract: This is a commercial capable heavy lifter capable of rotating or levering large objects up and down by remote control. When used to so raise and lower targets on a firing range, the target can be dropped automatically when the target receives one or more hits.

Abstract: A target system having a plurality of flat target boards mounted on posts which are rotatably journaled on an elongated base. Each post is rotatable ninety degrees. A drive crank arm is pivoted to the base for horizontal swinging movement and is pivotally connected to an elongated drive and synchronizing bar which in turn is pivotally connected to a plurality of lever arms connected to the respective posts to swing the target boards simultaneously between full view positions easily visible to a shooter, and edge view positions not visible to the shooter. A superior degree of reliability results from optionally selectible, multiple power drives applied to the single drive crank arm. Optional, ground-supported and overhead-supported embodiments are disclosed. In the embodiments shown, two drives with completely different power sources are shown, one being fluid pressure, the other being electricity. These are in a compact, over-and-under relation.

Abstract: An automated game assembly for use by at least one player, the assembly of the type having a basketball hoop mounted to a backboard, the basketball hoop and the backboard being mounted on a vertical support, the game assembly comprising means for rotating the basketball hoop and the backboard about a vertical axis, the vertical axis extending through the basketball hoop and offset horizontally from the backboard and the vertical support, and means for linearly displacing the basketball hoop and backboard away from and toward the player.

Abstract: A folding magnetic, reusable, game board, useful as a puzzle board and in combination with a jigsaw puzzle and associated instructional puzzle placard, having first and second foldable components and a non-foldable component, a magnetic playing surface for engaging magnetically attractive playing pieces, and a non-playing surface opposite the playing surface. A support system with an elongated member, and pivotal leg frame comprised of a pair of braced leg members useable to incline the game board above the horizontal plane upon which it rests. A cooperating closure mechanism with a first closure tab associated with the first foldable component, and a second closure tab associated with the second foldable component engageable with one another to maintain the game board in a closed position.

Abstract: A target support structure and system which accommodates the use of various target adapters, including a reactive steel plate, a plastic target holder, and a 1.times.2 lumber holder. The system provides for quick and simple changing of target types and allows for the convenient adjustment of the desired angle for any target which is used. When the target is hit, it falls over backwards, activating an internal position sensor. Then, when an internal reset mechanism is engaged, the plate is lifted back to the upright position. The system is easily mounted for permanent or portable use, may be activated through pneumatics or any adaptable power source, may be interfaced with electric, pneumatic, or similar control devices, may be used as a trigger device to activate other devices upon being hit, and is designed to minimize bullet splatter.

Abstract: A target support structure and system which holds a steel plate target centered in a protective shroud. When the plate is hit, it falls over backwards, activating an internal position sensor. Then, when an internal reset mechanism is engaged, the plate is lifted back to the upright position. The system is easily mounted for permanent or portable use, may be activated through pneumatics or any adaptable power source, may be interfaced with electric, pneumatic, or similar control devices, may be used as a trigger device to activate other devices upon being hit, and is uniquely designed to minimize bullet splatter (fragments) and damage to surrounding fixtures, objects or people.

Abstract: A control device for automatically regulating pneumatically-actuated target systems. When the device receives air pressure at its input, it directs the pressure to actuate one or more targets for an amount of time set in advance by means of a variable flow regulator which is a part of the control device. After the set time has elapsed, the air pressure is routed to return the target(s) to their original pre-actuation positions and to allow air flow to the output of the control device where it can be directed to repeat, as often as desired, the same or similar processes with different sets of targets through means of additional control devices.

Abstract: A golf swing practice device has a netting supported from a frame to provide a wedge-shaped pocket. The length of the sides of the wedge are adjustable to permit the open end of the wedge to be rotated by rotating the portion of the frame supporting the open end of the wedge with respect to the portion of the frame supporting the length of the wedge to permit a golfer to stand within the opening while avoiding the frame of the opening with his swing.

Abstract: A target support structure and system which holds and turns a flat target from edge to face and back again. Targets are held and turned at the bottom and are supported at the top by a pivoting connection attached to a stationary bar frame. The system is easily mounted, is able to accomodate a variety of targets, may be activated through pneumatics or any adaptable power source, may be interfaced with electric, pneumatic, or similar control devices, and is uniquely designed to minimize bullet damage and splatter.

Abstract: This invention relates to a firing ground consisting of standard modules (1, 21, 25, 36, 52) which are preferably realized according to the ISO standards, the firing ground comprising in particular a ball-arrester module (1), one or more intermediate modules (21) which are arranged in front of the ball-arrester module (1), a so-called "firing positions" module (25) arranged in front of the last one of the intermediate modules (21), and a so-called "firing controller position" module (36) provided next to the "firing positions" module (25), each one of the modules being provided with structure (11) for quick connection to the adjacent modules, as well as with structure (12) for electric and/or hydraulic lines and/or adjacent module ducts connection, and with tight sealing along the connection wall with the adjacent module, with wheels (20) for motion during the assembling operation of the firing ground, and with inside heat- and sound-insulation (14), in addition to a number of other ancillary modules which ca

Abstract: A basketball-type game apparatus has a hoop mounted to a backboard, the backboard being mounted for rotation by a rotary drive mechanism about an axis over a range of positions to present the thrower with a variety of angles from which to make his throw. The backboard is offset from a rotary drive system to carry the backboard and hoop through a horizontally disposed arc. Confining walls are provided in the form of an open front structure with the open-front defining the throwing position. A tilted floor in the form of a tray carries the supporting structure for the backboard and hoop, and returns the ball to the throwing position after each throw.

Abstract: A basketball training facility comprised of an enclosed area, a ball return device suspended within the enclosed area, a selectively rotating basketball goal, a track mounted motor driven carriage and controls for indexing the basketball goal toward and away from a player, a motor driven telescopic pole and controls for vertically indexing the basketball goal and a loud speaker system and a video projection system for providing audio and visual distractions within the facility. The facility thus permitting the player to simulate shooting a basketball from various angles and distances with respect to the goal without having to waste time retrieving basketballs following shots. Further, the audio and visual distractions acclimate the player to conditions likely encountered during a game.

Abstract: A frangible article for use as a target or a projectile is disclosed which is formed of a mixture of sand and decomposable binder shaped and cured to create a rigid, durable article which will fracture upon impact. Several preferred binder compositions and the method of forming a frangible target are also disclosed.

Abstract: A target system is provided which is designed to be initially set in a non-visible position and to subsequently be triggered to pop-up to a position visible to a marksman. Once in an upright, visible position, the target will travel downwardly and subsequently fall out of view after a predetermined amount of time. During operation, the target simulates natural movements of a person or animal and thus provides a more realistic target for the marksman. The target system comprises a target supporting structure which is movable in guide channels in an operating mechanism which is positionable in an initial set position and may be selectively triggered to assume an upright or shooting position. The target system is safe and effective in its operation and allows the user great flexibility and control of the system.

Abstract: A system for retrieval and replacement of targets which may be easily and quickly installed through self-locking mounting means for a drive unit and a target trap assembly as well as a snap-in arrangement for mounting trolley cables, a drive cord and a target carriage. A bullet trap assembly permits installation of its mounting bracket free of the bullet trap itself and provides for expeditious insertion and removal of the bullet trap for cleaning. The system includes battery-powered means for indoor and outdoor use, and provision is made for alternative connection to an external electrical power source, whereby the target carriage is driven away very rapidly between retrieved and target positions and the carriage may be stopped almost instantly in any desired position. Driving of the target carriage by the drive cord is accomplished through a center-mounted drive pulley which avoids side load, drive cord canting and cable run-off problems encountered with prior art target retrieval systems.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an automated target range system having a self-propelled carriage assembly that is moveable upon an overhead track that further provides a way to provide power and data information between the self-propelled carriage assembly and control units in order to efficiently operate the system individually or sequentially though a wide variety of operations that are necessary in today's target ranges.

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: The apparatus provides a moving target for practicing perceptual and perceptual motor skills particularly for education, therapy, athletics and amusement. The moving target may be large or small at ground level and may be propelled at various different speeds in opposite directions. The interval of movement in a given direction is variable selectively or randomly as is the pause time between intervals of movement and speed. The movement of the target permits the practice for training and increasing motor skills, adaptability and attentiveness to time, distance, direction and force at all levels of skill.

Abstract: The apparatus provides a moving target for practicing perceptual and perceptual motor skills particularly for education, therapy, athletics and amusement. The moving target may be large or small at ground level or above ground level and may be propelled at various different speeds in opposite directions. The interval of movement in a given direction is variable selectively or randomly as is the pause time between intervals of movement and speed. The movement of the target permits the practice for training and increasing motor skills, adaptability and attentiveness to time, distance, direction and force at all levels of skill.

Abstract: A target assembly that includes a housing in which are mounted a plurality of interceptors made of flexible, energy absorbing material that hang down behind a target face mounted thereon. Preferably, three such interceptors hang from a downwardly, rearwardly sloping rear wall of the housing. A continuous roll of adjacent target faces is mounted in the lower portion of the housing, each successive target face being hooked to the top of the housing for use. The target faces are made of a polymeric material having a color contrasting to the color of the interceptors.

Abstract: A target apparatus using heavy silhouette targets has a power operated resetting mechanism. Resetting may be activated by a falling target, after being hit, striking a switch. A reset spring can be fully loaded by the weight of the falling target to aid in resetting the target which may also be counterweighted. Targets may be reset individually, or a series of targets reset simultaneously after the last target is hit, or all hit targets may be reset automatically after a preselected number of targets have been hit, or resetting can occur after a time delay, to provide various resetting pattens. A bottle of compressed air or a battery enables self-contained target apparatuses to be provided.

Abstract: A target apparatus for pistol shooters has a plurality of target boards (28) provided at spaced intervals in a frame, the lower frame member (10) of which is hollow. Each support (30) for each target board (28) has an axle (34) journalled in a mounting plate (36) on the lower frame member (10), with a pinion wheel (37) on each axle (34). Respective racks (42) are provided on an operating rod (39) which is reciprocally moved by a double acting pneumatic cylinder (13). A damping assembly (44) has a piston (48), connected to the operating rod (39), slidably movable in a cylinder (45) which has bleed holes (55) at each end to damp the movement of the piston (48) and inlet holes (56) normally closed by a valve (57) which enables the cylinder to be maintained full of oil as the piston (48) moves in the cylinder. Oil fills the lower frame member (10) and acts as the damping medium, the oil being in free communication with the cylinder when the piston (48) is intermediate its stroke, where no damping is required.

Abstract: The invention provides a target device comprising a board-like target member and a housing of low height that serves as a stand for supporting the target member in an upright position of use and encloses it when it is in a horizontal protected position with its front face down and its lower end near a rear wall of the housing. An elongated guiding device near the bottom of the housing, extending from near its front wall to near its rear wall, confines the lower end of the target board to back and forth motion. The front face of the target board at all times engages a sliding support on the front of the housing, spaced above the front end portion of the guiding device, so that back and forth movement of the lower end of the target board is attended by swinging of its upper end as it moves between its positions.

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 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: 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: A firing butt includes a frame-like housing (1) for a target (4) with a main aperture (5) in which the target is located. A protective frame (9) overlies the housing in the direction of fire and is arranged to catch a bullet. In each case the frame (9) includes a steel plate and an elastomeric layer on the side of the steel plate remote from the housing. The elastomeric layer (16) and steel plate (15) are spaced apart and the intervening space may be filled with a layer of sand (3). The elastomeric layer may be carried on a steel plate (16a).

Abstract: An extended vision control device or accessory for selective attachable-detachable use with visual aid instruments such as binoculars, or monocular optical telescopes and the like, to enhance both visual tracking and radio control movement of mobile vehicles, such as model or miniature target tanks, trucks and the like. This accessory control device includes at least one housing for finger-operable controls, each housing adaptable for removable mounting upon a visual aid sighting instrument by means of quick attachable-detachable fasteners, and each housing further includes a control lever and an electrical conductor cable connectable with various of commercially available radio wave transmitter units having one or more sets of selector control devices, to thereby enhance movement observation and continuing radio-controlled operation of the device with which it is associated.

Abstract: Apparatus for target practice comprises a parallelpipedal body containing a motor, and a drive shaft emerging from the body and carrying a crank. Swingably mounted on the body is a shaft having cross arms thereon, one of which is connected by a link to the crank and the others of which can selectively receive a target for holding the target swingably or pivotally in positions spaced apart 90.degree.. A switch for controlling the motor coacts with the crank such that rotation of the crank is limited to 180.degree., which in turn rotates the arm bearing the target through 90.degree.. Depending on the position of the body and the selection of a socket for the target on the rotating arm, the target can be swung or pivoted, to and from any of a variety of positions of orientation.

Abstract: A multitarget shooter game apparatus comprising a light beam gun and a plurality of separate targets in the form of light sensitive cells which can be positioned at substantial distances from one another, preferably in different directions from a shooting position where the gun is located. The targets units include housings for the cells and the cells may be adjustably positioned in the housings to account for ambient light conditions. The targets indicate, as by illuminating an LED, when they are active and can be shot at to produce a score and when they are inactive. In one form the targets are each alternatively active for a short time in a random or apparently random order. Thus, the shooter must respond quickly, aim and fire in different directions as the different targets become active.

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 portable target raising and lowering device system is disclosed which is used for gunnery practice. A remotely controlled motor arrangement moves the target from a lowered position to a raised position, and back again. The device system is capable of operation with specialized targets used for either simulated visible laser training guns or live fire. When live fire is used, a target is employed which does not engage a motor-actuated control arm on the return stroke and a magnet is used to hold the target in the raised position until the target is hit and knocked to the down position. If the target is not hit, a solenoid is used to move the target to the down position.

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 target changer for use on a shooting range which after each actuation by an operator automatically removes a used target from a window in the target stand and brings a fresh target into the window. The target changer is designed to change individual targets which are not joined together. A supply magazine disposed above the window receives a stack of targets, and a first feed mechanism conveys the frontmost target of the stack to a vertical target guide disposed behind the window, while a second feed mechanism disposed at the lower end of the target guide conveys the used target from the target guide to a used target receiver. In some embodiments additional advancing rollers are arranged on both sides of the target guide to ensure a forced transport of the targets between the two feed mechanisms, whereby jamming is avoided.The target changer can be adapted to targets of different sizes by means of inserts which are inserted into the target window.

Abstract: To permit conjoint tilting movement of rifle targets which are slideable on track between a target position and an inspection position to inspect hits on the target, a guide track system is provided to guide movement of the target from the target area towards the firing area; a fixed drive gear is located at the target area to provide about ninety degree rotary movement upon engagement with the drive gear, and coupling apparatus associated with the targets conjointly coupling a plurality of targets to the drive gear when the targets are moved to the target position to swing the targets into a position presenting the targets to the rifleman, and permit rotating the targets by about ninety degrees for subsequent movement towards the firing position to permit inspection of hits by the rifleman.