PORTABLE, WIRELESS ELECTRONIC TARGET DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS

Abstract

Disclosed are targets devices and method of using the target devices for electronically determining the location of projectile impacts on the surface of a target. The impact location is determined in a number of ways, including by use of a plurality of accelerometers or piezo-vibration sensors to determine the impact area and transmit data relating to the impact to a remote receiver for real-time presentation to the shooter. The method enables the shooting position to be determined by means of relatively economical electronic systems and the shooting target is portable such that the shooter may bring the target to a plurality of firing ranges and locations to convey the same real-time reporting and benefits to the shooter. The shooting target may be set-up on a standard target stand to wirelessly relay shot impact information to a portable personal computing device to present real-time virtual impact data to the shooter. This data can then be stored and categorized given user-selected inputs and shared with other shooters in an online forum.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE

This application is a continuation-in-part application of Ser. No. 14/522,344 filed Oct. 23, 2014, which is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 14/154,131 filed Jan. 13, 2014, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, and to which application priority under 35 USC §120 is claimed. This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/111,527 filed Feb. 3, 2015, Ser. No. 61/825,981 filed May 21, 2013, and Ser. No. 61/831,594 filed Aug.28, 2013, which applications are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a devices, systems and methods for electronic evaluation of shots fired at a target in a shooting range and, more particularly, to targets, target systems and methods of use for electronically evaluating the shots fired at a target in a shooting range.

Various target shooting systems exist for analyzing the accuracy of the shot from a firearm to a target. The mechanism by which currently available target shooting systems work varies widely. Other than the standard target shooting equipment, e.g., a target and a firearm, currently available solutions typically require some sort of additional, special equipment. Moreover, currently available solutions lack versatility, portability, the ability to store shot information given a set of user-selected criteria (type of firearm, ammunition, distance, etc.) or the ability to synchronize multiple shooters with multiple targets, all on a commonly used electronic device such as an iPad®.

Cardboard or paper targets are most commonly used at firing ranges for training persons in the use of firearms. Such targets are also used at military and police firing ranges to allow soldiers and police officers to maintain and improve their marksmanship skills. Typically, shooters will point the firearm towards a paper target, aim, and then shoot. Then, the shooter physically walks to the target and write down the scores with a pen and notepad; or the target is propelled towards the shooter. Alternatively, an observer must either be stationed close to the target or be provided with an expensive spotting scope to advise the marksman of progress. Such an approach subjects the shooter or observer to some danger and in the example of using an observer, requires a second dedicated person to train shooting skills.

Accordingly, there is a need for a target and/or shooting experience to eliminate the risks and time associated with physically walking to the target or observing the target to determine the accuracy of the results.

Even where a conveyer system is used to retrieve the target to avoid the risk of physically entering the shooting range, time is required to log the hits and additional time is spent waiting for the physical target to be conveyed to the shooter for evaluation.

As noted below, there are several companies that make electronic target systems using wired solutions and very basic proprietary computer systems. For example, some computer software used in such systems uses a very basic bulls-eye design or animal silhouettes and produces a score down to the tenth (e.g., 9.4 out of 10.0). Some of these computer systems are used by competitive shooters, avid hunters, military and law enforcement. There are also wireless technologies that allow an electronic target to communicate with a receiver and computer to display the shots on a target. The computer systems used in existing wireless technology consists of a prohibitively expensive, bulky, steel cased, rugged computer monitor that attaches to a Pelican Case that houses a receiver and large battery. The case is large and bulky as well. (see, e.g., http://www.kongsberg-ts.no/en/index.php?pageiD=28&slideid=11).

In one currently available target system, acoustical measurements are used to determine the location of the impact of a bullet. As with other currently available systems, the targets are large, cumbersome and employ a special proprietary computer, not a personal mobile device.

Another target system uses several infrared sensors in conjunction with five microphones. The infrared sensors provide very accurate positioning in the bulls-eye area and the microphones cover the outer range.

SIUS AG (www.sius.com) provides an electronic scoring system such as the SA941 system or S110 system, which provides electronic results real-time to a shooter at a shooting range. The system can accommodate multiple shooters in multiple lanes and provide results to spectators via monitors. The system uses a LON-bus based wired communication and measures the shot's impact using only microphones. Particular equipment must be used depending on the type of weapon (e.g., caliber) and ammunition. The LS10 Laserscore available from SIUS AG, is a target for airguns that uses infrared laser measurement to determine the location of the strike or impact. However, the target range must be specially equipped to provide such request real-time and the results are transmitted to specially programmed computer systems.

In addition to laser or acoustic determination, electronic targeting systems can detect and evaluate the holes shot in the vicinity of a target electro-optically, or detected in other ways, in order to establish the positions of the holes in relation to a target or targets.

While other target products are currently available, none of the currently available systems or devices solve the portability, ease of use and accuracy problem. Accordingly, there is a need for target systems that can provide time and cost savings with real-time feedback regarding hits. Suitable system would be configurable to work with a variety of projectiles and firearms without changing the equipment or setup, and are also economical, reusable and accurate. Systems should be portable such that an individual can rely upon using his or her own target for consistency, that does not require specialty set-up that may be prone to human error, increases safety for the user by eliminating the need to enter a live firing range to check targets, provides data storage of shot information, analysis and aggregation, and may be used with a standard mobile computing device such as an iOS or Android-based smartphone or tablet.

SUMMARY

The disclosure is directed to target scoring devices. Target scoring devices comprise: a frame having two or more base members, a support member and a locking mechanism about which the two or more base members and the support member rotate through a range of 180°; a securement device which secures the frame in a configuration where the support member and the two or more base members are secured in an angular orientation from 0 to 180°; an impenetrable target plate having a front surface, rear surface and side surface affixed to the support member on the rear surface; a cross-member; two or more shockwave sensors adjacent the rear surface of the target plate, wherein the two or more shockwave sensors detect a vibration signature from a propagation of a shockwave from a projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target plate; and a power source. In some configurations, the range of rotation can be a range of up to about 360°. The two or more vibration sensors are affixable to the rear surface of the target plate, or can be incorporated into the target plate. Additionally, the target scoring devices can include: a handle, a vertical support mount, a rear plate, an enclosure shield, and one or more additional cross-members. A vibration isolation device can also be provided which is positioned between the impenetrable target plate and the support member. One or more of a transmitter, a receiver and a transceiver can be provided which are configurable to be in communication with the two or more shockwave sensors. The one or more transmitter and transceiver transmits data from the two or more vibration sensors to an electronic device wherein the electronic device processes data from the two or more vibration sensors to determine a position of the projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target plate and presents a location on user interface. Additionally, a target overlay can be provided wherein the target overlay is positioned on at least a portion of the front surface of the impenetrable target plate. The target overlay can be made of any suitable material. Additionally, in some configurations, the impenetrable target plate comprises an impenetrable transparent material and further wherein the target scoring device comprises an electronic display positioned adjacent the rear surface of the impenetrable target plate. In some configurations, an electric motor is provided wherein the electric motor changes an orientation between the support member and the two or more base members between the angular orientation of from 0 to 180°.

Another aspect of the disclosure is directed to target scoring systems. Target scoring systems comprise: one or more target scoring devices comprising a frame having two or more base members, a support member and a locking mechanism about which the two or more base members and the support member rotate through a range of 180°, a securement device which secures the frame in a configuration where the support member and the two or more base members are secured in an angular orientation from 0 to 180°, an impenetrable target plate having a front surface, rear surface and side surface affixed to the support member on the rear surface, a cross-member, two or more shockwave sensors adjacent the rear surface of the target plate, wherein the two or more shockwave sensors detect a propagation of a shockwave from a projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target plate, and a power source; at least one electronic device in communication with the one or more target scoring devices. The system is further configurable to comprise one or more of a transmitter, a receiver and a transceiver. A base station can be provided which is in communication with the one or more target scoring devices. One or more processors are provided which converts data from the two or more shockwave sensors into a visual representation of a location of an impact location for a projectile on a display screen for the electronic device. The one or more target scoring devices and the at least one electronic device are configurable to be are in wireless communication. Additionally one or more signal boosters can be provided which are in communication with the one or more target scoring devices.

Still another aspect of the disclosure are directed to methods of target scoring. Methods comprise: displaying on a user interface display, via a user computing device, a target; receiving data acquired by a target scoring device comprising a projectile impact location wherein the projectile impact location is determined from an analyzed vibration signature of a projectile impact at the target scoring device; and providing, via the user interface, an indicator of the projectile impact location. Additionally, the methods includes compiling data received from the target scoring device to determine one or more of: accuracy, overall score, ranking, shot number, and round. Additionally, the method can include accepting a data input from a user wherein the data input comprises one or more of a weapon type, and an ammunition type. In some configurations, the methods include generating a representation of cumulative performance for the user.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure is directed to target scoring apparatuses. Suitable scoring apparatuses comprise: a user computing device configured to: display on a user interface display, via a user computing device, a target; receive data acquired by a target scoring device comprising a projectile impact location wherein the projectile impact location is determined from an analyzed vibration signature of a projectile impact at the target scoring device; and provide, via the user interface, an indicator of the projectile impact location. The target scoring apparatus further comprises compiling data received from the target scoring device to determine one or more of: accuracy, overall score, ranking, shot number, and round. The target scoring apparatus can further comprises accepting a data input from a user wherein the data input comprises one or more of a weapon type, and an ammunition type. In some configurations, the target scoring apparatus can further comprise generating a representation of cumulative performance for the user.

Additional aspects of the disclosure include machine readable medium containing instructions that, when executed by a computing device, cause the computing device to perform a method, the method comprising: displaying on a user interface display, via a user computing device, a target; receiving data acquired by a target scoring device comprising a projectile impact location wherein the projectile impact location is determined from an analyzed vibration signature of a projectile impact at the target scoring device; and providing, via the user interface, an indicator of the projectile impact location.

Still other aspects of the disclosure are directed to target scoring device means comprising: a frame means having two or more base members means, a support member means and a means for locking about which the two or more base members means and the support member means rotate through a range of 180°; a securement device means which secures the frame means in a configuration where the support member means and the two or more base members means are secured in an angular orientation from 0 to 180°; an impenetrable target plate means having a front surface, rear surface and side surface affixed to the support member means on the rear surface; a cross-member means; two or more shockwave sensors means adjacent the rear surface of the target plate means, wherein the two or more shockwave sensors means are configurable to detect a vibration signature from a propagation of a shockwave from a projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target plate means; and a power source means. In some configurations, the two or more vibration sensors means are affixed to the rear surface of the target plate means. Additional aspects include one or more of: a handle means, a vertical support mount means, a rear plate means, an enclosure shield means, and one or more additional cross-members means. The target scoring device means can further comprise a vibration isolation device means positioned between the impenetrable target plate means and the support member means. In still other configurations one or more of a transmitter means, a receiver means and a transceiver means can be provided wherein the one or more transmitter means, receiver means and transceiver means are in communication with the two or more shockwave sensors means. The one or more transmitter means and transceiver means can further be configurable to transmit data from the two or more vibration sensors means to an electronic device means wherein the electronic device means processes data from the two or more vibration sensors means to determine a position of the projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target plate means and presents a location on user interface means. A target overlay means may be provided wherein the target overlay means is positioned on at least a portion of the front surface of the impenetrable target plate means. The impenetrable target plate means can further comprise an impenetrable transparent material and further wherein the target scoring device means comprises an electronic display means positioned adjacent the rear surface of the impenetrable target plate means. An electric motor means can be provided wherein the electric motor means changes an orientation between the support member means and the two or more base members means between the angular orientation of from 0 to 180°.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure is directed to a target scoring system. Suitable systems comprise: one or more target scoring device means comprising a frame means having two or more base member means, a support member means and a means for locking about which the two or more base members means and the support member means rotate through a range of 180°, a securement device means which secures the frame means in a configuration where the support member means and the two or more base member means are secured in an angular orientation from 0 to 180°, an impenetrable target plate means having a front surface, rear surface and side surface affixed to the support member means on the rear surface, a cross-member, two or more shockwave sensors means adjacent the rear surface of the target plate means, wherein the two or more shockwave sensor means detect a propagation of a shockwave from a projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target plate means, and a power source means; at least one electronic device means in communication with the one or more target scoring device means. Additionally, the system further comprises one or more of a transmitter means, a receiver means and a transceiver means. In some configurations a base station means can be provided which is in communication with the one or more target scoring device means. Additionally, a processor means converts data from the two or more shockwave sensor means into a visual representation of a location of an impact location for a projectile on a display screen means for the electronic device means. In some configurations, the one or more target scoring device means and the at least one electronic device means are in wireless communication. The target scoring system can also comprise at least one signal booster means in communication with the one or more target scoring device means.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. References include, U.S. Patent and Publication Nos. US 2012/0194802 A1 to Walti-Herter published Aug. 2, 2012 for Method for Electronically Determining The Shooting Position On A Shooting Target; US 2002/027190 A1 to Helak, published Mar. 7, 2002 for Device for Electronic Targeting Evaluation of Shots Fired On A Shooting Range; U.S. Pat. No. 4,204,683 A to Filippini et al. issued May 27, 1980, for Device and Method for Detection of the Shots on a Target from a Distance; U.S. Pat. No. 4,514,621 A to Knight et al. issued Apr. 30, 1985 for Firing Range; U.S. Pat. No. 4,763,903 A to Goodwin et al. issued Aug. 16, 1988, for Target Scoring and Display System and Method; U.S. Pat. No. 4,949,972 A to Goodwin et al. issued Aug. 21, 1990, for Target Scoring and Display System; U.S. Pat. No. 5,092,607 A to Ramsay et al. issued Mar. 3 1992, for Ballistic Impact Indicator; U.S. Pat. No. 5,577,733 A to Downing issued Nov. 26, 1996, for Targeting System; U.S. Pat. No. 5,775,699 A to Orito et al. issued Jul. 7, 1998, for Apparatus with Shooting Target and Method of Scoring Target Shooting; U.S. Pat. No. 5,924,868 A to Rod issued Jul. 20, 1999, for Method and Apparatus for Training a Shooter of a Firearm; U.S. Pat. No. 7,158,167 B1 to Yerazunis et al. issued Jan. 2, 2007, for Video Recording Device for a Targetable Weapon; US 2002/0171924 A1 to Varner et al. published Nov. 21, 2002 for Telescope Viewing System; US 2003/0180038 A1 to Gordon published Sep. 25, 2003, for Photographic Firearm Apparatus and Method; US 2004/0029642 A1 to Akano published Feb. 12, 2004, for Target Practice Laser Transmitting/Receiving System, Target Practice Laser Transmitter, and Target Practice Laser Receiver; US 2005/0002668 A1 to Gordon published Jan. 6, 2005, for Photographic Firearm Apparatus and Method; US 2006/0150468 A1 to Zhao published Jul. 13, 2006, for A Method and System to Display Shooting-Target and Automatic-Identify Last Hitting Point by Digital Image Processing; US 2006/0201046 A1 to Gordon published Sep. 14, 2006, for Photographic Firearm Apparatus and Method; US 2008/0163536 A1 to Koch et al. published Jul. 10, 2008, for Sighting Mechanism for Fire Arms; US 2008/0233543 A1 to Guissin published Sep. 25, 2008, for Video Capture, Recording and Scoring in Firearms and Surveillance; US 2011/311949 A1 to Preston et al. published Dec. 22, 2011, for Trajectory Simulation System Utilizing Dynamic Target Feedback That Provides Target Position; US 2012/0258432 A1 to Weissler published Oct. 11, 2012, for Target Shooting System; US 2012/0313324 A1 to Frickey published Dec. 13, 2012 for Articulated Target Stand with Multiple Degrees of Adjustment; US 2013/0147117 A1 by Graham et al. published Jun. 13, 2013 for an Intelligent Ballistic Target; US 2013/0193645 A1 to Kazakov et al. published Aug. 1, 2013 for a Projectile Target System; U.S. Pat. No. 8,718,620 B2 to Rosenblatt issued May 6, 2014 for Personal Media Devices with Wireless Communication; U.S. Pat. No. 8,234,070 B2 to McNelis et al. issued Jul. 31, 2012, for Apparatus, System, Method and Computer Program Product for Detecting Projectiles; U.S. Pat. No. 9,004,490 B2 to Kazakov et al. issued Apr. 14, 2015 for a Projectile Target System.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of a process for processing information received from a projectile;

FIG. 2 is a flow diagram of a process for processing information on a mobile computing device;

FIGS. 3A-D are views of a mobile, collapsible target stand;

FIGS. 4A-4C are front, top and side views of a mobile, collapsible target stand;

FIGS. 5A-5D are top and side views of a target stand in a collapsed configuration;

FIGS. 6A-6D are front, side and perspective views of a target stand; FIG. 6D also shows detail of a target plate and frame mounting;

FIGS. 7A-C are views of a silicon vibration dampener that separates the target plate from the frame;

FIGS. 8A-8F are views of the alternative embodiment of the mobile, collapsible target stand;

FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplar target range setup;

FIG. 10 illustrates another alternative portable target and stand embodiment;

FIG. 11 depicts a triangulation strike technique for determining strike location of a projectile hitting the target;

FIG. 12 illustrates an arrangement signal transceivers in communication with multiple targets;

FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplar alternative sensor position and strike determination method;

FIG. 14A illustrates an exemplar visual display of strike results;

FIG. 14B illustrates another exemplary visual display of strike results;

FIG. 15 illustrates comparative results for three shooters during an exemplar practice as illustrated on a screen of a computing device;

FIG. 16 illustrates a an exemplary result for a single shooter as illustrated on a screen of a computing device;

FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplar target shape which includes wired and wireless signal options with sensor placement;

FIG. 18 illustrates an alternative target shape which has a matrix style sensor placement;

FIG. 19 illustrates an exemplar virtual training platform;

FIGS. 20A-20B illustrate a self-healing target that is mountable on a collapsible target;

FIGS. 21A-21B is a perspective view of the self-healing mountable target shown in FIGS. 20A-20B; and

FIG. 22 depicts an example of the information data path for a networked collapsible target and analysis system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Disclosed are systems and devices that include a target system with at least one target, at least one target stand, at least one transmitter, at least one receiver that is typically the base-station and not a mobile device, a plurality of sensors, and a target computer. The target can be removably connectable to the stand. The disclosed target devices are removable, collapsible, storable, portable, and combinations thereof. Sensors are connectable to the target devices and in communication with a computing device such that a target strike is registered or detected by one or more sensors and information detected by the sensor detailing the strike, for example, the location and the force of the strike is determined. The target computer can be located proximate the sensors such that the information may be communicated wirelessly, wired, or otherwise. Alternatively, the target computer need not be near the sensors. Rather the sensors may interface directly with a mobile device application that is positioned a distance away from the target system and associated sensors. A target computer is configurable to interact with an application programming interface (API) on a mobile device. The target system can include at least one transmitter and one receiver or a transceiver which includes both transmitting and receiving functions, where the transmitter or transceiver transmits data from one or more sensors directly or indirectly to another device and the receiver or transceiver receives data from one or more sensors. Where sensor data is transmitted indirectly, the target computer is also the transmitter. The transceiver can transmit data to a base station which is positioned near the shooter and will relay the strike or impact data to the mobile device of the shooter wirelessly, for example, via Bluetooth. Alternatively, local area wireless computer networking technology (WiFi), radio frequency identification (RF), or infrared (IR) wireless data transfer can be used.

In one example, data can originate from the target when the target is struck by a projectile such as a bullet. Thereafter) the data can be sent via long-range wireless radio communication to a “base station” or relay device. Once the base station receives the long-range communication it then relays the data via a short range communication signal (Bluetooth Low Energy) to the shooter's mobile computing device. Once the mobile computing device receives the data, the computing device then calculates where the impact occurred and displays a representation of the location on a virtual bulls eye on the screen of the mobile computing device. The shot data (including other variables like type of gun, ammunition, optics, weather, personal information, time, date, elevation, position, etc.) can also be detected and/or stored locally on the mobile device until user is within range of cellular or WiFi service for further transmission of the data. Shot data (and ancillary data) is can be uploaded to a central database, which is hosted on a suitable cloud computing service such as Amazon web services. Once the data is provided to a centralized database, users can then log into a website to review the shot data, and can manipulate their shot data, share it, compare it, etc.

In some configurations, the transmitter is capable of communicating with more than one transceiver or receiver, base station, or mobile device. For example, the data may be conveyed to multiple base stations or multiple mobile devices for purposes of real-time monitoring of all shooters in a competition. Unique target identification information is conveyed to the mobile device. The API can perform a determination regarding the whether the target identification correlates to the shooter or whether it is a target of another shooter. In one embodiment, a target ID may be scanned at the beginning of a shooting session. Near field communication (NFC) technology can be used to scan a target ID for example, or a bar code, QR code or the like may be used.

In some configurations, the target system includes an electric motor with a wireless receiver connected with at least one target to move the target wirelessly in the X, Y, and Z axis, or any combination of directions.

Additionally, the target can comprise multiple target plates, in others the target is a single piece. The target itself is portable, reusable and/or foldable such that a shooter can take the target with them to any suitable location. Alternatively, the target can also be disassembled into smaller components. The target is manufactured of a material that renders the target reusable, such as a steel. However, portions of the target can be made of different materials without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Additionally, the target can include or be made of a rubber material which is “self-healing”, meaning that a property of the material, such as its elasticity, is such that a hole through the target appears to close without any action by the user. Alternatively, the target may be a steel target coated with a self-healing material, such as a urethane or aramid fiber (Kevlar®) impregnated rubber, that when punctured closes the hole due to the density and elasticity of the material. For example, the overlay may be made of urethane and mounted some distance over a steel plate, for example AR500 armor grade. The urethane may be made of several cuts of urethane that are adhered together, for example by glue, a similar adhesive, or mechanically attached to the target by use of a bolt. The targets, portions thereof, or overlays of such targets can be made of materials such as high molecular density rubber, paper, cardboard, plastic, resins, and the like.

The sensors can be piezo-vibration sensors or accelerometers. Other sensors may be used, without departing from the scope of the disclosure, as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. Alternatively, microphones may be used to indicate a surface strike on the target. One or more sensors may be used. In at least some configurations, three sensors are used. In other configurations, four sensors are used. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the number of sensors provided can be proportionately and evenly distributed on a surface of the target. The sensors can be photodiodes or a mixture of accelerometers, piezo-vibration sensors and photodiodes.

The target system has a power source for operating any components requiring power, such as computing components, or sensors. In some configurations, the target system is battery powered or solar powered for portability. Thus, each component requiring a power source may be individually powered or may share a portable power source as permitted by proximity.

Data related to the target and a projectile strike on the target are conveyable to the shooter real-time. Data can be conveyed via a mobile device, such as a mobile telephone, personal computer, handheld device, iPad, iPhone, tablet computer, laptop, notebook, ultrabook, Android phone, video game platform or other personal computing device capable of wirelessly receiving such data. Mobile devices are configurable to use an API to interface, receive, display and store the impact or strike data. Such data can be correlated with a number of other useful information, including location, date, and time. Information may also be stored in a cloud based database. In such cases the receiver is integrated with the mobile device. The receiver can be a standard part of the mobile device. Alternatively, the receiver can be integrated with a detachable memory device, the transmitter is integrated with a detachable memory device, or both. The personal mobile device can also be in communication with a receiver proximate to a shooter, wherein the mobile device and the receiver are associated by wireless communication, for example, Bluetooth, RF, WiFi, IR, or NFC.

The vibration sensors in some embodiments described herein use a process called trilateration or multi-lateration to determine impact information. Such a process uses at least three or more vibration sensors. In another embodiment, a process of triangulation or multi-angulation is used, where at least three vibration sensors are used. In some embodiments herein, the vibration sensors provide a unique vibration signature when impacted by a projectile.

The vibration signatures include amplitude, phase, frequency, frequency spectrum information, location, time, date, and force of impact, for example. The target impact data may also include a user-defined and assigned identifier. This identifier may be an alphanumeric.

In some embodiments, the target systems can further comprise a controller to receive vibration signatures corresponding to the sensed vibrations to determine where the target has been impacted by a projectile. Additionally, long-range wireless transmitters may be coupled with the target and short-range wireless transmitters may be couple with the personal mobile computing device configured to virtually report real-time data on a virtual target relating to the projectile impact. A second transmitter can also be provided, but may not be required where the personal mobile computing device receives the information directly.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, there is no limitation regarding the type of firearm or projectile that can be used with the disclosed embodiments. Suitable firearms include guns, handguns, rifles, slings, catapults, pellets, bb guns, police-style crowd control rubber bullet guns, sand projective weapons, and crossbows. Suitable projectiles include bullets, arrows, paintball, darts, or an athletic ball.

Mobile applications used with the target system are configurable to provide real-time impact information which includes the impact of the projectile on the target relative to a target design on a virtual target, wherein the mobile application optionally determines a score from the impact based on an accuracy algorithm and stored in a database.

For example, the mobile application can receive user input comprising the type of weapon used during a particular session; the type of ammunition used; the distance from the weapon to the target; and weather conditions; wherein the mobile application stores the score based on at least one such input. Some information, such as weather, can be obtained from the mobile device or from information provided to the mobile device from another source.

The target system may be used as a virtual training platform using a larger version of the target system, which may be steel, self-healing rubber or another suitable material. The larger system can accommodate a broader range of users, such as garners. Rather than having the impact locations appear as bullet holes on a virtual target screen, the impact data could interact with a first-person shooter game. To accomplish this, an appropriate game, like “Time Crisis 3” could be downloaded and run on an arcade machine emulator (MAME) which can be used to communicate with the game, e.g., Time Crisis 3. See, {{http://www.mamedev.org/about.html}}. A conduit from the target system to the game can be created by adding a peripheral to the computer to project the game on the surface of the target, such as a larger version of the target. The basic system allows the target system to communicate X-Y coordinates of shot impacts to a personal computer or similar computing device running a game or a virtual training scenario, and projecting the visuals onto the target or alternatively onto a screen in front of the target.

At a commercial range, shooters may be able to select targets that may be static or reactive. Such systems may be networked to allow for multiple players or shooters that may compete in the same game system, which could display leaderboards at the location or online. Audio may be fed into a local speaker or into electronic ear protection. In one embodiment, players or shooters can customize the experience, for example by taking photo shots to upload into the game and may take video of themselves shooting, either for diagnostic instruction or for social media. Results on a per scenario basis could be saved in the system using a virtual gun safe associated with online shooter profiles. Any number of add-on packages with new games or scenarios could be used with the gaming system, including customized packages using users/shooters associated with the particular location, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. A shooter/user may virtually “travel” to a geographical location to experience the game with users local to that location. For example, a user originally from Boston, Mass. living in another location, such as San Francisco, Calif., may virtually play a multi-user game with other users from Boston or any other number of locations, and thereby share the experience with friends in different locations—or perhaps meet like-minded people in other locations. Law enforcement/military may use such a projector system in virtual training scenarios, similar to PriSim® high definition interactive videos and games.

The virtual system the design may incorporate a sensor array, for example an 8 sensor array mounted on a 4 ‘×3’ piece of ⅜″ AR500 steel. In some applications, a large target display is preferable, for example, at least 6′ in width, more preferably at least 10′ in width, such that the target is a reasonable size at the minimum safe distance. A heavy duty target stand sufficient to support the larger target may be used, for example to support at least 150 lbs, more preferably at least 200 lbs, such that the mounted target experiences minimal movement under the conditions. The screen can be a corrugated plastic screen, such as Coroplast®, which is configured to project an image, thick enough to prevent rearward fragmentation and with a sufficient strength and endurance for multiple hits, while providing a lower cost to allow replacement between sessions. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, other materials may be used without departing from the scope of the disclosure. An anti-fragmentation adhesive may be used around the perimeter of the target plate to prevent deflection of materials into the surrounding environment (e.g., lead, copper). The bottom of the screen may be sloped or removable to allow for discharge.

An emulator running on a computing device may be used as an alternative to customized software, though customized code may be written for the application. The software preferably has calibration settings allowing the user to setup the projector to match the target size and distance. For example, the user may use a test shot to align an actual strike point with a virtual strike point. Alternatively, screen edges of the projection and the target may be juxtaposed or with a suitable margin based on the user preference. Typical aspect ratios may be used, such as 4′×3′, 16′×9′ or 16′×10′. Another calibration method may have a user shoot each corner and a center point, using expected geometry to correct for shooting inaccuracies. The calibration preferably done through specialized code written for the target system to calibrate based on input from the target and user. Alternatively, the target system may calibrate through interaction with a targeting device used by user. In such an alternative, the system may use multiple inputs from the target strike, a targeting device, and the like, the code further written to compensate for environmental conditions impacting the calibration (e.g., wind). Input commands may be ported over from a video game to match the system output, for example, a strike point would be the equivalent of a mouse click or the like. After such calibration, a user may load a pre-configured game, such as the arcade game Time Crisis 3, on a PC or other computing device and play.

FIG. 1 illustrates a flow diagram of certain steps of the target system. A user, or a shooter, sets up the target system where desired and the target system initiated by powering the system. Alternatively the target power can be designed to turn on as the target system is unfolded and setup. The portable target system, as shown in FIG. 3, may be carried and set-up in a number of remote environments, including any variety of shooting ranges. Desirably, the portable target system allows the user to reduce variables experienced at different ranges and use the same system, capturing relevant shooting data for honing accuracy and shooting skills. After the target is put in place, the user can locate themselves at a desired distance as determined in a number of ways, such as through a global position system (GPS) transceiver on the target system. In one embodiment the user can launch a software application on a computing device where a personal transceiver is located. As shown in FIG. 1, after the target is impacted by a projectile 101, the plurality of sensors register the impact and send the impact data to the target computer 102 located proximate the target and sensors. In at least some configurations, at least three sensors are provided on the target, still other configurations have four sensors. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, more sensors can be provided. Additional sensors will result in greater precision, accuracy and better identification of outlier signals resulting is a more accurate measurement. Afterwards, the three or more sensors send impact data to the target computer 102. Thereafter, the target computer positioned proximate the target (i.e., nearer the user) processes the raw impact data by converting the analog signal to a digital signal, determines the coordinates of the impact location, and transmits the data package to the target transceiver 103, which is proximate the target computer and target. Alternatively, the coordinates may be calculated by a mobile computer device. The sensors may be hardwired or data may be transmitted electronically to the target transceiver and sent to the target computer for processing. The target transceiver wirelessly transmits the coordinates of the particular impact to the personal transceiver 105 proximate the shooter/user and/or to an observer, judge or other interested party with a transceiver configured to receive such information. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the transceiver 105 can be replaced by separate transmitting and receiving components without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In some configurations the target computer and target transceiver are located together and attached to the target 104. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a single transceiver can be used for both the personal transceiver 106 function and the target transceiver 105, thus eliminating an intermediate relay. Additionally, in some configurations, the step of wirelessly transmitting impact data by the target transceiver 105 and by the personal transceiver 106 can be combined. This would allow elimination of an intermediate transceiver. The personal transceiver can be configured to send impact data wirelessly, such as via Bluetooth, to one or more of the user's personal mobile computing device 106. The personal mobile computing device can be any suitable mobile computing device, such as an iPad, smartphone (e.g., Android device or iPhone), laptop, tablet, or the like. In an alternative embodiment the personal transceiver may be part of the mobile computer device. Where the personal transceiver is integrated with the mobile computing device, wireless transmission is not necessarily preferred. Multiple devices may receive the data from the personal transceiver. In an embodiment the personal transceiver is located in one mobile computing device and may transmit to other mobile computing devices enabled to receive the information. The mobile computing device receiving the data can then process the data to display information relating to the impact, including in some embodiments displaying where the impact occurred on a virtual target simulating the actual target 107.

FIG. 2 illustrates processing of information received by a mobile computing device. Once turned on and in communication with the target transceiver, the mobile computing device receives the impact data from the personal transceiver 201. A mobile software application may be used to process the data received and then to display, for example, the location of the impact on a virtual target on screen which simulates the location of the actual impact on the actual target 202. A large amount of data can also be provided for each impact which may be accessed by the user by scrolling through a database log of raw data or, if a touch screen is used, by touching a desired impact designation on the virtual display. The user may also customize the mobile application to embed and display information that is important to the user. Such information can include, for example, a calculated measure of accuracy or a measure of skill that may consider the level of difficulty in addition to the accuracy, where the level of difficulty may be a function of a number of factors such as weather conditions such as the level of wind or visibility, the distance compared with the weapon, and other variables, including but not limited to ballistic coefficient, distance to target, weapon type and modifications, time elapsed between each shot, number of shots, ammunition type, elevation difference between target and shooter, stationary or moving target, shooter's stance (prone, kneeling, standing), shooter's support (bench rest, sling, bipod, etc.), weapon sights (magnification, windage and elevation settings, reticle (MIL size versus minute of angle (MOA)), and brand). The mobile software application may synchronize the shot performance, data and the shooter/user profile with an online database for comparative analysis and storage of the results 203. Additionally, data may be saved in a database, such as a relational database, for searching and data manipulation at a later time 204. Stored data may be used in a shooting series competition. Data can also be manipulated, reviewed and/or shared at a later time.

FIGS. 3A-D illustrates an embodiment of a portable and collapsible target and frame system 300 in a deployed configuration. FIG. 3A is a perspective view, FIG. 3B is a front view, FIG. 3C is a top view, and FIG. 3D is a side view. The target and frame system 300 can be folded and/or disassembled. Folding and disassembly allows the target and frame system 300 to be easily carried by a user to a variety of locations where the user may wish to use the target system. The target includes a target plate 310, or strike plate which receives an impact from a projectile. The target plate 310 is a solid impregnable panel having a front surface 312, a rear surface 314 and at least one side surface 316, wherein the target plate 310 is positioned substantially within a plane. The target plate 310 is made of a material conducive to target shooting. In one embodiment the target plate 310 is made of AR500 steel which is a quenched and tempered steel that is resistant to abrasion and suitable for severe impact. Other materials, such as AR300 or AR550, may be used depending on the relative force being applied by the projectile on the surface, which is a function of the fire power of the device being used. Suitable dimensions for the target plate 310 can be, for example, 18 inches in height by 18 inches width with ⅜^th of an inch in thickness. Other dimensions can be used without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Other exemplar sizes include, 12 inches×12 inches×⅜ inch up to about 60 inches×60 inches×½ inch. Targets can, but need not, be square.

A rubberized or polyethylene coating may be applied to the target plate 310. For targets to be functional and safe, the target plate should be made of a material with a Brinell hardness number (BHN) of at least 500, preferably at least 550, more preferably at least 600. The material must also provide sufficient strength, toughness, and impact resistance. Other suitable materials are Heflin R.E.M. 500® steel. If the hardness of the material is excessive, the target plate 310 formed from such material may be too hard and too brittle for use in a ballistic training application. For example a BHN of 700 would not be suitable for a target plate 310. Additionally, steel with a smooth, flat surface is used for the target to dissipate the projectile's energy for a longer lasting target.

The target plate 310 is connected to a frame which includes a base 320 and a target plate supporting member 340. The base 320 and target plate supporting member 340 can be made of a low carbon steel such as mild steel (AISI grades 1005 through 1025) in some embodiments and configured to present a streamlined or minimal face toward the shooter to avoid dangerous ricochets to minimize risk and unpredictable splatter. The base 320 has two longitudinal base members 322, 322′ with one or more cross-members 324 connecting the two longitudinal base members 322, 322′ in a parallel or partially parallel orientation. The target plate 310 is configurable to pivot about an axis x at joint 328 with a locking mechanism, for example, a removable locking pin 318 or spring lock. The target plate 310 pivots about the axis x so that the shooter may setup the target and frame system 300 on an uneven surface but adjust the base 320 of the target stand to present a flat face from the perspective of the shooter.

One or more impact sensors 304 may be positioned on or adjacent a rear surface 314 of the target plate 310. A minimum of three impact sensors 304 are suitable for most location determining purposes, four sensors are preferable, and, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, accuracy of the target and frame system 300 continues to increase as the number of impact sensors 304 provided increase. The target plate 310 has a locking mechanism 350 which facilitates moving the target plate 310 from a position that is parallel to the base 320 of the target stand to a position that is not parallel to the stand and then locking the target plate 310 in position. One way the target plate 310 may be locked in place after pivoting and adjusting from the parallel position to a preferred position is to use a removable locking pin 318 that both allows the front surface 312 of the target plate 310 to be optimally positioned and secured for target practice but also allows for secure storage when folded or carried by a user.

The target and frame system 300 may be stored flat to minimize the footprint for the target. In one embodiment of the locking mechanism 350, an enclosure shield 326 is provided which is positioned connectively between the two longitudinal base members 322, 322′. The enclosure shield 326 shields the target and frame system 300 electronics 330 from, for example, stray bullet fire or splatter. The electronics 330 may be placed in a variety of locations. For example, the electronics 330 can be positioned behind the target plate 310 and thus protected by the enclosure shield 326. Once the target and frame system 300 are set in a desirable location with a target orientation of the target plate 310, the target and frame system 300 may be secured in place. One way to secure the frame is to pass stakes (not shown) through apertures 308, 308′ in the longitudinal base members 322, 322′ in the frame.

The locking mechanism 350 can have a semicircular form 342 with one or more apertures 344, 344′. Side arms 340, 340′ that engage the target plate 310 engage the longitudinal base members 322, 322 at the semicircular form 342 locking mechanism 350 such that the target plate 310 and side arms 340, 340′ rotate about an axis x. A removable locking pin 318 is provided which is passed through an aperture in the side arm when the aperture lines up with one of the apertures 344, 344′ of the locking mechanism 350 to secure the target plate in a position relative to the longitudinal base members 322, 322′. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the target plate 310 can be locked in a position that is parallel to the two longitudinal base members 322, 322′ or in a position that is not parallel, e.g. a position that is 90° from a plane in which the longitudinal members are substantially positioned. Other orientations can be used without departing from the scope of the disclosure, including greater or less than 90°. Additionally, the two longitudinal base members may be positioned within a plane in some use configurations. However, depending on the terrain, the two longitudinal base members may not always be positioned substantially within a plane.

FIGS. 4A-C illustrate a target and frame system 300 in a collapsed configuration. FIG. 4A is a top planar view; FIG. 4B is a side view from the position where the top of the target plate 310 is adjacent an end of the two longitudinal base members 322, 322′; and FIG. 4C is a side view from which the locking mechanism 350 is visible. As can be seen in this configuration a handle 370 can be provided which facilitates transporting the target and frame system 300.

FIGS. 5A-D illustrate various views of the target and frame system 300 in a closed position for carrying or storage. The profile and footprint of the target and frame system can be minimized in this position. The handle 370 can be used to carry the target and frame system 300. Typically, a user will carry the target and frame system 300 when the target is in the stowed position (i.e., the target plate has been translated about the axis so that it is parallel and flush with the base). The electronics 330 are shown positioned behind the front surface 312 of the target plate 310 shown in FIG. 5C..

FIGS. 6A-D illustrate another embodiment of a target and frame system 600. The target and frame system 600 has a pair of base members 622, 622′ which feature one or more transverse members 624 connecting the base members to each other. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the base members 622, 622′ can be parallel or be positioned such that the base members are inclined in a direction towards each other, thus forming a trapezoidal footprint. A target overlay 670 can be provided which is configurable to engage the front surface of the target plate 610. One or more securement devices, such as clips 672 can be provided which secure the target overlay 670 to the face of the target plate 610. The target overlay 670 can be formed of any suitable material including paper, cardboard, plastic, rubber, wherein the target overly fits over at least a portion of the target plate.

As with the prior embodiment, the target plate 610 engages the base members 622, 622′ rotatably about a locking mechanism 650 so that the target and frame system 600 can take on a substantially flat form during transport and storage. From the section D in FIG. 6B shown in FIG. 6D, the target plate 610 engages the frame 640 via a center bushing mount with a dampener 674 positioned between the target plate 610 and the frame 640. The dampener 674 is formed from a high dampening material, such as neoprene rubber, such as center bushing mount 60220 available from Tech Products. Additionally, the target plate 610 can provide a threaded post 678 which passes through an aperture in the frame 640. A nut 680 defining a threaded aperture therethrough can be provided which engages the threaded post 678. As shown, the target plate 610 is separated from the frame 640 by a first dampener 674. Thereafter a second dampener 676 can be provided, followed by a washer 682 and then the nut 680, which can be threaded. By isolating the target plate 610 from externally induced vibration, the detected signal is free from internal impedance to that external source which increases the accuracy of the sensors detecting a strike on the target plate.

FIGS. 7A-C illustrate a sensor 700 which is configurable to be adhered to the rear surface of the target plate. The sensor can be fit within a protective housing. Also illustrated is an aperture 712 within a vibration bushing 710. Wires 702, 704 are provided which enable the sensor to be powered.

FIGS. 8A-F illustrate additional variations that can be made to components of the target and frame system of FIG. 3. The target and frame system 800 has a target plate 810 and is configurable to be collapsible and transportable. The locking mechanism 850 can be a wheel, or a semicular portion of a wheel with teeth 844, 844′ which provides a series surface to engage a pin 842 in order to secure the target plate 810 in an angular orientation to the base of the target and frame system 800. The base member 822 can have a 1-shaped slotted opening which engages a fastener from the locking mechanism 850, to allow the base member 822 and the target plate 810 to rotate. As shown in FIG. 8C, the target plate 810 engages the frame 840 with a dampener 874 positioned between the target plate 810 and the frame 840. Additionally, the target plate 810 can provide a threaded post 878 which passes through an aperture in the frame 840. A nut 880 defining a threaded aperture therethrough, or other suitable securement device, can be provided which engages the threaded post 878. As shown, the target plate 810 is separated from the frame 840 by a first dampener 874. Thereafter a second dampener 876 can be provided, followed by a washer and then the nut 880. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the function of the first and second dampener can be a achieved using a single dampener.

FIG. 8D illustrates a rear view of the target and frame system 800. The target plate 810 has a flange 890 extending therefrom (shown extending from the lower surface of the target plate). The flange can have a cutout 892 that is sized to engage a support member, such as a 2×4 898 shown in FIG. 8F. A cap 898 can be provided which defines a cavity into which an end of the 2×4 fits.

Additionally, a plate 896 can be provided which covers an opening 897 in a back panel to create a space between the frame and the target plate. The plate 896 can be formed from an isolation material, such as rubber, to provide an area to suspend electronics, where the electronics are protected from vibration and damage. The plate 896 can also be formed of a rigid material that holds fasteners firmly. The electronics can be mounted on either side of the plate 896, with the wires passing through the space in the

In some configurations, the face or front surface of the target plate can be constructed of a material that is both bulletproof and transparent, such as an optically clear poly carbonate material or aluminum oxynitride (sold commercially as ALON® available from Surmet). Where the target plate is constructed of a material that is bulletproof and transparent, a computer display can be positioned behind the target plate. Where the computer display is positioned behind the target plate, the computer display can be instructed to present a large number of characters, shapes, figures, fictitious images, historical images, and more to a user during a session. The images depicted may move on or across the display for reactive target practice. In some embodiments, the shooter may upload any number of video files or photographs to make the experience more challenging and/or entertaining. In such an embodiment, a generated score from each impact is configured to be a factor of the situation displayed. For example, a situational simulation may be uploaded and displayed to challenge the shooter's reaction time and judgment. In other embodiments, real-life training modules may be used to simulate scenarios and score the user based on a number of factors in how to best react to the particular scenario. The user may upload and control the display from the mobile computer system which can record the simulated scenario and the user's reaction for later playback, demonstration, discussion and comparison. Alternately, the display may be projected on a target face from a forward position or a position on the target frame. In these embodiments the figure, simulation or other depiction may be transferred wirelessly from the mobile computer. Alternatively, the target computer may be programmed with such video depictions and simulations. In another embodiment the target computer has a port, such as a universal serial bus (USB) port for media interface. A solid state memory can be used with the target computer to avoid the risk of damage and data loss. The target computer in some embodiments can interface with an external computer or hard drive for backup storage. In some embodiments the target computer can backup information wirelessly to a connected mobile computer or database that is not local to the target computer, for example, through the internet. Alternatively, the database may be cloud-based storage.

FIG. 9 is a simplified depiction of a target system wherein the target system includes a target 922 with a target face 926 having a target pattern 936 displayed thereon. The target 922 is oriented such that a projectile 932 from a firearm 930 will travel along a path 935 towards the target 922. Once the projectile 932 reaches the target 922, the projectile will impact the target 922 at an impact location 934 and then ricochet off the surface of the target 922 in a safe manner toward the ground or away from the shooter as depicted by projectile path 928. In an alternate embodiment the target 922 may be mounted on a vertical stand 924 that is adjustable in height. The vertical stand 924 may have a stabilized base (not shown) or may be implanted into a soft surface such as in the ground. A suitable firearm 930, such as rifle or other means of conveying a projectile, is used at a location that is separated from the target 922 by a suitable distance d. The distance d between the user and the target will depend in part on the type of firearm used and the skill of the user. Upon impact, for example at impact location 934, the sensors are configurable to send impact information received as a result of the impact to the signal processing circuit or the target computer positioned proximate to the target system, which may be hardwired or wirelessly in contact with the target sensors. A receiver 940 is configured to receive the processed data via a signal processing circuit 944 from the target computer and to then transmit the data to the mobile computer 938 and the receiver which further processes the data and provides a visual output 942 of the impact information based on the circumstances and target program used.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a substantially planar target plate 1010 coupled to a support member 1024. Support member 1024 includes a base 1044 and a pivot member 1046. The pivot member 1046 is coupled to the base 1044. Mounts 1048, 1048′ are provided which are secured to a back planar surface 1050 of the substantially planar target plate 1010 and to pivot member 1046. Additionally, a plurality of sensors 1074, 1075, 1076, 1077 are provided which are in contact with the back planar surface 1050 of the substantially planar target plate 1010. Base 1044 includes a cradle portion 1052 for pivot member 1046. Pivot member 1046 lies in cradle portion 1052 such that when planar strike surface (not shown) is struck by projectile (see, e.g., FIG. 9), substantially planar target plate 1010 is permitted to rotate about a pivot axis 1054 established by the positioning of pivot member 1046 in cradle portion 1052 of base 1044. The movement of substantially planar target plate 1010 around pivot axis 1054 upon impact of projectile (FIG. 9) dampens the force of the impact to allow for a smaller ricochet proximity. This embodiment is particularly useful in less open locations where the portable target system is setup. In this embodiment, the target plate is removable from support member 1024 or removable from mounts 1048, 1048′ to allow for compaction, storage and easy transportation. Alternatively, the base of the support member 1024 may be pivotally attached or removably attached to the base 1044 at hinge 1090 and contact which may be a hinge lock. As an alternative to a hinge 1090, the support member 1024 may be locked into place with a springloaded latching system (not shown). A target computer and transceiver (not shown) can be located behind strike plate (as shown in other configurations) to protect the computer and transceiver from misfire. Alternatively a back strike plate may be used to protect from ricochets and secure the target computer and transceiver in place. Alternatively a top strike plate (not shown) may be used to protect the top portion of the target computer from ricochets.

Referring to FIG. 11, a rear surface view of substantially planar target plate 1110 is shown with mounts 1148, 1148′ secured to back planar surface 1150. The substantially planar target plate 1110 has an upper edge 1156, a lower edge 1162, a first and second side edge 1166, 1150. Where the substantially planar target plate 1110 is square, rectangular or trapezoidal, four corners 1170, 1160, 1168, 1164. Sensor assemblies 1174, 1175, 1176, 1177 (similar to sensors 1074, 1075, 1076, 1077 from FIG. 10) are disposed on the rear surface of the strike plate or incorporated into the substantially planar target plate 1110. The strike surface on the front surface of the substantially planar target plate 1110 and the back surface are separated by a target depth. In one embodiment configuration, first and second sensors 1174, 1175, respectively, extend from back surface and are positioned near a first corner 1160 of the substantially planar target plate 1110. Likewise, a third and fourth sensor 1176, 1177 extend from back planar surface 1150 and are positioned near a fourth corner 1170. First, second, third, and fourth sensors 1174, 1175, 1176, 1177, respectively, may be substantially equidistant from an approximate midpoint 1180 of the substantially planar target plate 1110. A first baseline distance 1182 between first and second sensors 1174, 1175 is less than a first or second radial distance 1184, 1184′ between the first and second sensors 1174, 1175 and midpoint 1180. Likewise, a second baseline distance 1186 between third and fourth sensors 1176, 1177 is less than radial distance 1185, 1185′ between each of third and fourth sensors 1176, 1177 and midpoint 1180. In this example the sensors 1174, 1175, 1176, 1177 are equidistant from midpoint 1180. In addition, each of the sensors are embedded at an equal depth and not fully through the target plate to prevent damage from a target strike by the projectile.

Sensors can be located in the top portion of the target surface, as illustrated. The mounts 1148 and the pivot axis (see 1054 in FIG. 10) are positionable in the lower portion of the substantially planar target plate 1110 to allow for the substantially planar target plate 1110 to be positionable such that the target plate leans forward (i.e., the position of the upper edge 1156 is forward (towards the user) of the lower edge 1162). Where the target plate is in a leaning forward position, any projectile that hits the target plate will ricochet downward to the ground. Dampening attachments may also be used to absorb some of the impact force and limit the range of the ricochet. In such a case, the strike force of the projectile reported to the shoot must be adjusted by the absorbed force. Alternatively, the target plate may be mounted on a pivoting connection, either a full pivot to accommodate for uneven surfaces or only in the forward and back direction to position the target facing downward. Such a pivot connection preferably will have a pivot lock to lock the target into position during the firing session.

Alternately, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the sensors may be located in other positions in or on the target and need not be embedded in the target surface. For example, the sensors could be positioned on the back surface of the target.

FIG. 12 illustrates exemplar signal paths from multiple target systems to a variety of transceivers. In some embodiments, the targets 1203, 1203′, 1203″ have one or more sensors 1215, 1215′, 1215″ to identify impacts from individuals 1223, 1224, 1225, 1225′, 1125″, 1226, 1228, 1228′. In one embodiment the signal and data from the target is transmitted to one or more transceivers that can be shared by two shooters 1225, 1225′, where each shooter 1225, 1225′ each have individual displays 1229, 1230. In this embodiment two or more shooters can use the same target and by sending a signal to the target the particular individual can indicate which shooter is taking a turn for data parsing. In another embodiment a universal transceiver 1222 can be used to receive target data and signals from local target transceivers 1216, 1216′, 1216″ of a plurality of target systems and parse the signal to relay to the appropriate individuals, not limited to shooters. For example spectators 1228 may receive the target data to follow the results for shooters. Alternatively, an instructor or competition officials or judges 1226 may receive target data on mobile devices or remote computers to observe or evaluate the strikes from any number of shooters. In another embodiment, a signal booster 1212 may be used to relay data from the targets. In another embodiment, a shooting range owner or competition official or judge 1226 may utilize a transceiver to receive target data and information by frequent users of the range for purposes of providing loyalty rewards or offers to the individuals visiting such ranges. In such embodiments, the range owner or competition organizer may offer a central database 1227 for data storage where individuals may access the information associated with a particular account and can be programmed to interface with users to provide information, updates, competition information, incentive information, or the like. The central database is configurable to be accessible through a user interface, for example a personal computer or mobile device. The accessible information may include range conditions for any particular day, such as wind speed or other weather information.

FIG. 13 depicts alternative ways to orient or locate the target sensors 1315, 1315′ (S1, S1', S2, S2′, S3, S3′, S4, S4′) on two different targets 1303, 1303′ to identify strike information. Each sensor has a distance 1301, 1301′ 1302, 1302′, 1303, 1303′, 1304, 1304′ between the target sensor 1315, 1315′ and a bulls eye location 1380, 1380′.

FIGS. 14A-B depict a shot clusters 1248, 1248′, where the shot cluster indicates a high consistency but is not a high score regarding target accuracy. The current shot 1248″ can be displayed using an indicator that is different than the prior shots, e.g., an open circle, or another shape. In such situations, the target system may evaluate whether a scope adjustment is appropriate and based on the shot data recommend a calibration adjustment. The calibration adjustment may also apply to compensate with weather conditions, such as wind.

FIGS. 15-16 are examples of display output from a personal device, such as a target system application display on an electronic device such as a smartphone, tablet, iPad, or laptop computer. The figures demonstrate a broad presentation of data relating to the particular session or as compared with historical shooting data. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, each user can have a separate display. Additional data can be provided including, for example, accuracy, score, weapon type, ammunition type, current round vs. total rounds, relative ranking to one or more other users, and shot number. Additionally a cumulative performance can be provided. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the ranking can be a comparison between one or more users at a facility engaged in a real-time competition or with one or more persons at one or more other facilities. Additionally, a time difference can exist between users. Thus, for example, where a user in California is competing with a user in Boston who has already completed a series of rounds (e.g., four rounds), the display can provide the user in California with information on a delayed and staggered basis thus replicating an exchange of rounds. Thus, for example, once the California user completes a round, data for the first round from the Boston user can be displayed, thereafter the California user completes another round, after which a second round from the Boston user is displayed, and so on.

The target systems herein in some embodiments are configured to measure accuracy, power and speed. Regarding speed, reaction time may be measured by using a target system with a randomized signal to fire, which may be with the application or may be integrated with the target. For example, audial or visual signal may be used. The signal in these situations is coordinated with the target such that the timing between signal and impact may be accurately measured and recorded. Preferably the signal is delivered from the mobile application which is proximate the shooter and does not require excessive volume or brightness. In some modes, the overall score may be a factor of speed, power and accuracy or any combination thereof based on the goals of the shooter.

FIG. 17 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the shooting target system 1701 according to the present disclosure. The target system 1701 comprises a plurality of sensors, which may include shockwave sensors 1710a-h such as vibration sensors and/or accelerometers arranged to detect a shock wave arising and propagating in the target material upon impact of a projectile (not shown) in the target 1711. The target system 1701 further comprises a local computing device 1712 connected to each shockwave sensor 1710a-h either wired or wirelessly and arranged to receive measurement signals there from. When a shock wave in the target material is detected by the shockwave sensors 1710a-h, each sensor sends a signal indicating that a shock wave has been detected to the computing device 1712. Alternatively, sensor signal data, which can include piezo-vibration or shockwave data, may be transmitted via a transceiver associated with the local computing device 1712 to a remote device, such as a mobile device, iPad, smartphone, tablet computer, or the like. Any associated computing device, whether local or remote, is configurable to calculate the point of impact of the projectile in the target 1711 based on a runtime difference of the shock wave between the different shockwave sensors 1710a-h. The target 1711 can be a flat target which may be on a stand or may alternatively be a uniformly curved metal sheet. The principle of determining the point of impact of a projectile in a target described below is equally applicable to a three dimensional or two dimensional depiction. A variety of depictions or target shapes 1715 may be on the target face such that the depiction or target shape may be correlated in the target system application or program and entered into the remote application or program provide statistical accuracy and strike evaluation. For example, a deer depiction may be displayed and correlate with a program identifier such that a strike impact will be correlated with that depiction or an alternative depiction such as a human perpetrator may be correlated in the program under a different program identifier for accuracy and strike evaluation purposes relating to a differing target.

Vibrations or shock waves caused by the impact of a projectile in the target 1711 will propagate in the target material in a concentric pattern. The sensor closest to the point of impact will be the first sensor to register the shock wave. When that sensor detects the shock wave, it sends a signal to the computer which starts a timer upon reception of the signal. In the same way, the subsequently registering sensors send respective signals to the computer. When the subsequent signals are received by the computer, the differences in timing stamps between subsequent sensors (DELTA's), indicative of the run time difference of the shock wave between the first sensor and subsequent sensors, is stored, is stored and used by the calculator.. The same run time difference is performed between each subsequent sensor and the prior registering sensors, resulting in a plurality of timer value DELTAs indicative of the run time differences between the plurality of sensors. The “run time difference” of the shock wave between two sensors can hence also be expressed as the time delay between the detections of the shock wave by the two sensors. That is, the value DELTA 1(a) represents the time-delay between the detection of the shock wave by the first sensor to detect the shock wave and the second sensor to detect the shock wave, while the value DELTA 2(b) represents the time-delay between the detections of the shock wave by the first sensor to detect it and the third sensor to detect it. By utilizing the time-delays between the detections of the shock wave by the sensors 1710a-h as well as known parameter values, such as the speed of sound in the target material which corresponds to the velocity of shock wave propagation in the target 1711, and the shock wave propagation distances between the sensors 1710a-h, a computer 1712, calculates the point of impact X using standard physics and well-known geometry. Shock wave propagation distance shall in this context be construed as the distance the shockwave has to propagate in the target material between two points.

Although the shooting target system 1701 in FIG. 17 comprises eight shock sensors, a person skilled in the art appreciates that three sensors are sufficient to triangulate or trilaterate a point of impact of the projectile and two shock sensors are sufficient to retrieve some information about the point of impact of the projectile. If only two shock sensors are used, an exact point of impact cannot be determined since the system is under-determined (the calculation means needs two time differences in order to determine two coordinates for the point of impact). However, a shooting target system comprising only two shock sensors (yielding one shock wave run-time difference) is able to determine a line along the target 1711, along which line the projectile must have hit the target. This point-of-impact information may be sufficient for certain shooting applications.

The parameter values needed to calculate the point of impact except for the run-time difference of the shock wave between the sensors detecting it, such as the speed of sound in the target material and the propagation distance between the shock sensors, are preferably stored in the computer. The computer can include a user interface for a user to change the parameter values needed to calculate the information related to the point of impact so as to allow the same calculator associated with the computing device 1712 to be used with different targets composed by different materials and/or shaped differently, and/or to allow repositioning of the sensors at a target so as to optimize sensor readings.

The speed of sound in an aluminum or other metal target is approximately 5000 m/sec. Thus, a shock wave travels approximately 10 cm in 0.02 ms. The shock sensors 1710a-h should be separated by a distance ensuring that the electronic circuit of the calculator associated with the computing device 1712 can distinguish the different sensor signals from each other. The exactness of the point-of-impact determination depends on the accuracy of the timer value readings. Though three sensors could be used to triangulate the strike location, more preferably a larger number of sensors will allow for greater accuracy through data analysis and correction or by recognition of outlier signals to eliminate outlier signals from the calculation. Outlier signals may also be used to identify sensor problems and the need for maintenance of the sensor or system.

As aforementioned, shooting targets, and especially shooting targets used in military shooting exercises, often depicts fictitious enemy soldiers. A target system resolution of less than 1 cm is suitable, preferably less than 0.5 cm, more preferably less than 2.5 mm, most preferably 1 mm or less, which is fully possible to achieve with the target system according to the present invention, is thus sufficient to determine which part of the target that is hit by an incident projectile. In one embodiment the target shape is projected or displayed and coordinated with the system software such that strikes are correlated with particular location strikes on the given target and accuracy scores calculated based on the target selection. This may be achieved by associating each target coordinate or different target regions with a part of the body in a look-up table located in the signal processor associated with the computing device 1712 or the indication means of the shooting target system.

With the portability and flexibility of the present invention a shooter may setup the target system in a number locations. Accommodation may be made to account for gusts of wind, rain or other incidental strikes. Wind gusts, hail and rain may cause vibrations in the target material which undesirably may be registered by the sensors and taken for an incident projectile by the signal processor associated with the computing device 1712. Such unintended readings can be prevented with use of sufficient number of sensors and an algorithm to identify outlier readings. To avoid this problem, the signal processor is preferably arranged to compare the output signals from the sensors with a predetermined threshold value and ignore signals indicative of outliers. To further minimize the risk of calculating the “point of impact” based on shock waves or vibrations that are not caused by a projectile hitting the target 1711, the signal processor associated with the computing device 1712 may be arranged to ignore all output signals from the sensors that are not within a predetermined amplitude interval, which interval is characteristic of shock waves caused by a projectile impact on the target. This amplitude may be adjustable to accommodate the conditions. Yet a further alternative is to analyze the variation of the sensor signal amplitude in time and only calculate the point of impact for those shock wave signals having an amplitude-time signature that matches a predetermined amplitude-time signature which is characteristic of shock waves originating from a hit by a projectile. The smart logic of the signal processor can use historic information of the target strike amplitudes to progressively increase accuracy. Other logic can be applied simultaneously. For example, the amplitude of consecutive shock waves originating from a projectile impact rapidly decrease in amplitude while the amplitudes of consecutive shock waves originating from gusts of wind most likely will fluctuate randomly. That is, the signal processor associated with the computing device 1712 may comprise logic that, by studying the amplitude of a plurality of consecutive shock waves, is able to distinguish shock waves or vibrations originating from a projectile impact from other non-projectile generated shock waves.

FIG. 18 illustrates another embodiment of the shooting target system according to the invention. The shooting target system 1802 comprises similar components as the target system 1701 of FIG. 17. However, the target 1821 is divided in a matrix format for the target. The target 1821 comprises a plurality of vertical dividers 1827 substantially dividing the target into a plurality of elongated target portions 1828a-f. In this embodiment, the dividers are vertically arranged and extend from the bottom of the target 1821 to a distance from the top of the target, thereby forming a plurality of vertically elongated target portions 1828a-f, henceforth referred to as target columns, that are held together by a horizontal “connection portion” 1830a-i. Sensors 1820a-f are arranged to detect impact shock waves/vibrations in the target material of each target column 1828a-f. Preferably, the sensors 1820a-f are disposed at or close to the ends of the target columns 1828a-f. Horizontal sensors are similarly disposed at or close to the ends of the target rows 1830a-h. The number of rows and columns are by example and more or less can be used depending on the sensitivity of interest.

In FIG. 18, the target 1821 is illustrated as a curved metal sheet which can be used to provide 3D effect. The principle of determining the point of impact in a matrix target, as will be further described below, is, however, equally applicable to a flat shooting target.

FIG. 18 also illustrates how vibrations or shock waves caused by the impact of a projectile on the matrix target 1821 are propagating in the target material. Once again, an imagined point of impact of a projectile in the target 1821 can be illustrated by placing an X on the target. When a target column (for example, target column 1828b) is hit by a projectile, shock waves arise and propagate in the longitudinal directions of the target column. When the outermost shock wave, i.e. the first shock wave arising in the target material due to the impact of the projectile, reaches the sensor located closest to the point of impact, which in this particular case is sensor 1820b, the sensor transmits a signal to the signal processor 1822 whereupon a timer 1824 is started. The shockwave front propagating in the opposite direction reaches the connection portion through which the vibrations/shock waves are further spread to all target strips 1828a-f and horizontal sensors 1830a-h. The sensors neighboring the sensor disposed on the target cylinder hit by the projectile, in this case sensors 1820a and 1820c, will be the next sensors to detect the shock wave since the propagation distance from the point of impact to these sensors is shorter than the propagation distance to the other sensors (except for sensor 1820b ). As soon as sensor 1820a or sensor 1820c detects the shock wave, a signal indicating that the shock wave has been detected by a second sensor is sent to the processor 1822 whereupon the timer 1824 is stopped and a timer value DELTA t, indicating the run time difference of the shock wave between the first sensor to detect it and the second sensor to detect it, is obtained. In a similar way as described above with reference to FIG. 17, the point of impact is then calculated by utilizing the value DELTA t and known physical and geometrical parameters, such as the speed of sound in the target material, and the shock wave propagation distance between the sensors for which the run time difference of the shock wave has been determined.

By dividing the target into a plurality of target portions by columns, the shock wave propagation path between the different shock sensors is prolonged, reducing the demands on the response time of the shock sensors and the electronic circuit processing the sensor signals. It also reduces the demands on the computational power of the calculation means since only one target coordinate needs to be calculated in order to establish the point of impact of the projectile. In, e.g., the embodiment shown in FIG. 18 the horizontal location for the point of impact is automatically given since the calculation means “knows” that the projectile must have hit the target somewhere along the vertical column on which the sensor that was the first to detect the shock wave is disposed (given that the calculation means is arranged so as to be able to distinguish signals from different sensors). Hence, a matrix shooting target eliminates one dimension from the geometrical environment of the target and the processor 1822 only needs to calculate the vertical coordinate for the point of impact based on the run time difference of the shock wave between the different sensors. The width of the columns may vary in dependence of the demand on the target system resolution. In high precision shooting exercises finely columnated targets may be used while roughly columnated targets may be sufficient for other applications. In FIG. 18, the local computer 1822 may additionally include a transceiver 1825 which may be in contact with one or more personal transceivers located with the shooter, an observer or at a display, for example, to display results of each strike. Also, the local computer 1822 may also include a modem 1826 that can be either WiFi enabled or capable of communicating data to the internet through a suitable data transmission vehicle such as LTE, GSM, HSPA, CDMA, UMTS telecommunications, WiMax, EDGE, EV-DO, iBurst, HIPERMAN, Flash-OFDM, or the like, such that the data is uploaded to an internet based data system, such as a cloud database. All shot data point or a large number of data points and associated variable data can be stored in a relational database management system (DBMS), such as SQL, MySQL, DB2, Informix, Sybase Adaptive Server Enterprise, Sybase IQ, Teradata or the like. Base36 (hexatridecimal storage) for example may be used with data for database storage in such databases, or the like. Alternatively, hierarchical databases, object databases and XML databases may be used. The data can be accessed through the internet via a proprietary program or preferably with a standard internet browser. This embodiment allows observers across the world to follow the results of the shooter real-time with simple access to the internet and a web browser. Alternatively, strike information can be uploaded to the internet and processed in one or more internet-based game settings. Additionally, the target display simulates the view of the character in a computer game and the strikes are correlated real-time with the internet-based game to provide a real-feel simulation. Such a simulation is ideal for use in police or military training.

FIG. 19 shows an alternate embodiment of a simulation or gaming system having a target 1901. The target 1901 may be, for example, a steel plate or alternatively a rubber material, such as a self-healing rubber. A rubber fragmentation ring 1902 can be provided for use with the target 1901 between a screen 1903 and the target. The screen 1903, can be, for example, a Coroplast screen, on which an image or video may be projected or depicted. In an alternative embodiment the screen 1903 may be a digital display with a protective, optically transparent material surface, such as a polycarbonate material such as Lexan™ or Tuffak®. A first camera 1904 can be provided which faces the shooter. A second camera 1906 can be provided facing the target. Target system 1905 has a target system with software on a computing device, such as a tablet. A computer 1907 with a projector can be provided to project a suitable game image or other video on the projection screen. The computer may be equipped with a receiver or transceiver, as described herein, with may, for example, use Bluetooth technology. With the technology, the shooter may be imaged within the video itself to simulate a real-life experience for purposes of training. Panoramic or surround around screens may be used to provide an immersive experience.

FIGS. 20A-B and FIGS. 21 A-B illustrate a suitable rubber plate target overlay 2070. The target overlay 2070 has a front surface 2072 and a rear surface 2074. The rear surface 2074 can also include a raised portion 2080 which can be centrally located to stabilize the target overlay 2070 against the target plate (e.g., target plate 610). The front surface 2072 of the target overlay 2070 can feature an image or raised feature, such as a bulls eye which acts as a target 2082.

FIG. 22 illustrates a system overview. A platform computing device 2210. The platform computing device 2210 is configurable to communicate with the system 2200 when the system is in an online mode, i.e., has an internet connection which allows data to be uploaded, e.g., via a REST web service. When a user 2202 accesses data via the internet, the user can make historic queries, can submit analytic requests, and review results, update profile information and administer the system. When the system 2200 is in an offline mode (e.g., no WiFi or cell signal), the target device 2220 can communicate with a transceiver 2222 which provides long range wireless information to, for example, a personal transceiver 2224 held by a shooter 2204. The personal transceiver 2224 can be configured with or communicate with one or more of a mobile application 2030, a desktop application 2032, and a web based application 2034. In some configurations, the system 2200 does not operate in an offline mode. On range features available whether the system 2220 is offline or online includes real-time, or near real-time shot visualization, environmental configuration, multi-target/multi-shooter correlation and management, review of live firing, and profile input and management.

The target system, could include one or more computing devices, the computing devices comprising one or more processors in communication with at least one other processor of the target system, product data and database entries from a first database associated with one or more experiences. The computer system is in communication with one or more databases that receive and store entries from one or more user input devices and optionally the sensors denoting information characterizing the one or more experiences. The computer system is specially programmed with computer code to manage the experience. One such experience is a simulation, another is a video game, for example. The experiences are personalized and customized based on user input and/or other input sources, such as environmental sources or through beacon technology, such devices as described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,718,620. The beacon technology may be used to provide location-based content, maps, weather, city information, or any other suitable content. The beacon technology, in one embodiment, is integrated with the portable target system and may be used to automatically load personal user preference when the user is in the propinquity of the beacon.

The beacon technology may also be integrated with the experience at multiple locations and phases to track multiple users in the same experience and/or multiple locations or stations involved in the experience. For example, in a range, several beacons may be strategically located for the purpose of detecting a user when moving from a location outside the beacon detection zone to within the zone to initiate a portion of the experience based on the programming, location, and/or user.

A screen shot from a user's display, for example from the user/shooter mobile device, may show a variety of information, such as the weather, distance to target, projectile device (e.g. .308 Remington), projectile, and data regarding the shot strike. The data from the shot strike includes the time of the strike, a score generated by a customized algorithm specific to the target, projectile device, distance to the target and weather conditions, for example.

Another screen shot, upon clicking on the particular shot, may display additional information about each shot which can be displayed in a pop-up window from a touch screen or curser click. Additional information can be added in a notes section. Such information can be saved and uploaded to a user data base, which may be cloud based or local. The user display may be customizable. In some configurations, the user may customize the appearance of the screen shot to reflect personal preferences. Any suitable computer device may be used, such as a handheld device, portable computer, smart phone, iPad®, or the like. Any device able to use a web browser may be used, though ideally the user device is a mobile device to accommodate the mobility of the target system. Multiple shooter information may be displayed on one screen, for example, a multiple user/shooter display exemplifying three shooters at the time, graphically showing the scores, ranking the shooters and indicating the accuracy of each shooter.

For example, the target system may be adapted to apply to larger weaponry target practice, such as those used by the military.

In engaging the systems and methods according to aspects of the disclosed subject matter the user may engage in one or more use sessions. Each use session may include a training session and/or one or more rounds of gameplay. Each gameplay may include one or more trials. For each use session involving a gameplay, performance data for the user for each gameplay and each use session is stored. Performance data may be compared from one or more use sessions, gameplays, or trials within a gameplay to determine a difficulty level of a future trial or gameplay. The difficulty level may be determined real-time at the completion of a session, a round of gameplay, or at the commencement of a session or a round of gameplay.

The systems and methods according to aspects of the disclosed subject matter may utilize a variety of computer and computing systems, communications devices, networks and/or digital/logic devices for operation. Each may, in turn, be configurable to utilize a suitable computing device which can be manufactured with, loaded with and/or fetch from some storage device, and then execute, instructions that cause the computing device to perform a method according to aspects of the disclosed subject matter.

A computing device can include without limitation a mobile user device such as a mobile phone, a smart phone and a cellular phone, a personal digital assistant (“PDA”), such as an Android, iPhone®, a tablet, a laptop and the like. In at least some configurations, a user can execute a browser application over a network, such as the Internet, to view and interact with digital content, such as screen displays. A display includes, for example, an interface that allows a visual presentation of data from a computing device. Access could be over or partially over other forms of computing and/or communications networks. A user may access a web-browser, e.g., to provide access to applications and data and other content located on a web-site or a web-page of a web-site.

A suitable computing device may include a processor to perform logic and other computing operations, e.g., a stand-alone computer processing unit (“CPU”), or hard wired logic as in a microcontroller, or a combination of both, and may execute instructions according to its operating system and the instructions to perform the steps of the method, or elements of the process. The user's computing device may be part of a network of computing devices and the methods of the disclosed subject matter may be performed by different computing devices associated with the network, perhaps in different physical locations, cooperating or otherwise interacting to perform a disclosed method. For example, a user's portable computing device may run an app alone or in conjunction with a remote computing device, such as a server on the Internet. For purposes of the present application, the term “computing device” includes any and all of the above discussed logic circuitry, communications devices and digital processing capabilities or combinations of these.

Certain embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may be described for illustrative purposes as steps of a method which may be executed on a computing device executing software, and illustrated, by way of example only, as a block diagram of a process flow. Such may also be considered as a software flow chart. Such block diagrams and like operational illustrations of a method performed or the operation of a computing device and any combination of blocks in a block diagram, can illustrate, as examples, software program code/instructions that can be provided to the computing device or at least abbreviated statements of the functionalities and operations performed by the computing device in executing the instructions. Some possible alternate implementation may involve the function, functionalities and operations noted in the blocks of a block diagram occurring out of the order noted in the block diagram, including occurring simultaneously or nearly so, or in another order or not occurring at all. Aspects of the disclosed subject matter may be implemented in parallel or seriatim in hardware, firmware, software or any combination(s) of these, co-located or remotely located, at least in part, from each other, e.g., in arrays or networks of computing devices, over interconnected networks, including the Internet, and the like.

The instructions may be stored on a suitable “machine readable medium” within a computing device or in communication with or otherwise accessible to the computing device. As used in the present application a machine readable medium is a tangible storage device and the instructions are stored in a non-transitory way. At the same time, during operation, the instructions may at sometimes be transitory, e.g., in transit from a remote storage device to a computing device over a communication link. However, when the machine readable medium is tangible and non-transitory, the instructions will be stored, for at least some period of time, in a memory storage device, such as a random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), a magnetic or optical disc storage device, or the like, arrays and/or combinations of which may form a local cache memory, e.g., residing on a processor integrated circuit, a local main memory, e.g., housed within an enclosure for a processor of a computing device, a local electronic or disc hard drive, a remote storage location connected to a local server or a remote server access over a network, or the like. When so stored, the software will constitute a “machine readable medium,” that is both tangible and stores the instructions in a non-transitory form. At a minimum, therefore, the machine readable medium storing instructions for execution on an associated computing device will be “tangible” and “non-transitory” at the time of execution of instructions by a processor of a computing device and when the instructions are being stored for subsequent access by a computing device.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

1. A target scoring device comprising:

a frame having two or more base members, a support member and a locking mechanism about which the two or more base members and the support member rotate through a range of 180°;

a securement device which secures the frame in a configuration where the support member and the two or more base members are secured in an angular orientation from 0 to 180°;

an impenetrable target plate having a front surface, rear surface and side surface affixed to the support member on the rear surface;

a cross-member;

two or more shockwave sensors adjacent the rear surface of the target plate, wherein the two or more shockwave sensors detect a vibration signature from a propagation of a shockwave from a projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target plate; and

a power source.

2. The target scoring device of claim 1 wherein the two or more vibration sensors are affixed to the rear surface of the target plate.

3. The target scoring device of claim 1 further comprising one or more of: a handle, a vertical support mount, a rear plate, an enclosure shield, and one or more additional cross-members.

4. The target scoring device of claim 1 further comprising a vibration isolation device positioned between the impenetrable target plate and the support member.

5. The target scoring device of claim 1 further comprising one or more of a transmitter, a receiver and a transceiver wherein the one or more transmitter, receiver and transceiver are in communication with the two or more shockwave sensors.

6. The target scoring device of claim 5 wherein the one or more transmitter and transceiver transmits data from the two or more vibration sensors to an electronic device wherein the electronic device processes data from the two or more vibration sensors to determine a position of the projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target plate and presents a location on user interface.

7. The target scoring device of claim 1 further comprising a target overlay wherein the target overlay is positioned on at least a portion of the front surface of the impenetrable target plate.

8. The target scoring device of claim 1 wherein the impenetrable target plate comprises an impenetrable transparent material and further wherein the target scoring device comprises an electronic display positioned adjacent the rear surface of the impenetrable target plate.

9. The target scoring device of claim 1 further comprising an electric motor wherein the electric motor changes an orientation between the support member and the two or more base members between the angular orientation of from 0 to 180°.

10. A target scoring system comprising:

one or more target scoring devices comprising a frame having two or more base members, a support member and a locking mechanism about which the two or more base members and the support member rotate through a range of 180°, a securement device which secures the frame in a configuration where the support member and the two or more base members are secured in an angular orientation from 0 to 180°, an impenetrable target plate having a front surface, rear surface and side surface affixed to the support member on the rear surface, a cross-member, two or more shockwave sensors adjacent the rear surface of the target plate, wherein the two or more shockwave sensors detect a propagation of a shockwave from a projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target plate, and a power source;

at least one electronic device in communication with the one or more target scoring devices.

11. The target scoring system of claim 10 wherein the system further comprises one or more of a transmitter, a receiver and a transceiver.

12. The target scoring system of claim 10 further comprising a base station in communication with the one or more target scoring devices.

13. The target scoring system of claim 10 wherein a processor converts data from the two or more shockwave sensors into a visual representation of a location of an impact location for a projectile on a display screen for the electronic device.

14. The target scoring system of claim 10 wherein the one or more target scoring devices and the at least one electronic device are in wireless communication.

15. The target scoring system of claim 14 further comprising at least one signal booster in communication with the one or more target scoring devices.

16. A method of target scoring comprising:

displaying on a user interface display, via a user computing device, a target;

receiving data acquired by a target scoring device comprising a projectile impact location wherein the projectile impact location is determined from an analyzed vibration signature of a projectile impact at the target scoring device; and

providing, via the user interface, an indicator of the projectile impact location.

17. The method of claim 16 further comprising compiling data received from the target scoring device to determine one or more of: accuracy, overall score, ranking, shot number, and round.

18. The method of claim 16 further comprising accepting a data input from a user wherein the data input comprises one or more of a weapon type, and an ammunition type.

19. The method of claim 17 further comprising generating a representation of cumulative performance for the user.

20. A target scoring apparatus comprising: a user computing device configured to:

display on a user interface display, via a user computing device, a target;

receive data acquired by a target scoring device comprising a projectile impact location wherein the projectile impact location is determined from an analyzed vibration signature of a projectile impact at the target scoring device; and

provide, via the user interface, an indicator of the projectile impact location

21. The target scoring apparatus of claim 20 further comprising compiling data received from the target scoring device to determine one or more of: accuracy, overall score, ranking, shot number, and round.

22. The target scoring apparatus of claim 20 further comprising accepting a data input from a user wherein the data input comprises one or more of a weapon type, and an ammunition type.

23. The target scoring apparatus of claim 22 further comprising generating a representation of cumulative performance for the user.

24. A machine readable medium containing instructions that, when executed by a computing device, cause the computing device to perform a method, the method comprising:

displaying on a user interface display, via a user computing device, a target;

receiving data acquired by a target scoring device comprising a projectile impact location wherein the projectile impact location is determined from an analyzed vibration signature of a projectile impact at the target scoring device; and

providing, via the user interface, an indicator of the projectile impact location.

25. A target scoring device means comprising:

a frame means having two or more base members means, a support member means and a means for locking about which the two or more base members means and the support member means rotate through a range of 180°;

a securement device means which secures the frame means in a configuration where the support member means and the two or more base members means are secured in an angular orientation from 0 to 180°;

an impenetrable target plate means having a front surface, rear surface and side surface affixed to the support member means on the rear surface;

a cross-member means;

two or more shockwave sensors means adjacent the rear surface of the target plate means, wherein the two or more shockwave sensors means are configurable to detect a vibration signature from a propagation of a shockwave from a projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target plate means; and

a power source means.

26. The target scoring device means of claim 25 wherein the two or more vibration sensors means are affixed to the rear surface of the target plate means.

27. The target scoring device means of claim 25 further comprising one or more of: a handle means, a vertical support mount means, a rear plate means, an enclosure shield means, and one or more additional cross-members means.

28. The target scoring device means of claim 25 further comprising a vibration isolation device means positioned between the impenetrable target plate means and the support member means.

29. The target scoring device means of claim 25 further comprising one or more of a transmitter means, a receiver means and a transceiver means wherein the one or more transmitter means, receiver means and transceiver means are in communication with the two or more shockwave sensors means.

30. The target scoring device means of claim 29 wherein the one or more transmitter means and transceiver means is configurable to transmit data from the two or more vibration sensors means to an electronic device means wherein the electronic device means processes data from the two or more vibration sensors means to determine a position of the projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target plate means and presents a location on user interface means.

31. The target scoring means device of claim 25 further comprising a target overlay means wherein the target overlay means is positioned on at least a portion of the front surface of the impenetrable target plate means.

32. The target scoring device means of claim 25 wherein the impenetrable target plate means comprises an impenetrable transparent material and further wherein the target scoring device means comprises an electronic display means positioned adjacent the rear surface of the impenetrable target plate means.

33. The target scoring device means of claim 25 further comprising an electric motor means wherein the electric motor means changes an orientation between the support member means and the two or more base members means between the angular orientation of from 0 to 180°.

34. A target scoring system comprising:

one or more target scoring device means comprising a frame means having two or more base member means, a support member means and a means for locking about which the two or more base members means and the support member means rotate through a range of 180°, a securement device means which secures the frame means in a configuration where the support member means and the two or more base member means are secured in an angular orientation from 0 to 180°, an impenetrable target plate means having a front surface, rear surface and side surface affixed to the support member means on the rear surface, a cross-member, two or more shockwave sensors means adjacent the rear surface of the target plate means, wherein the two or more shockwave sensor means detect a propagation of a shockwave from a projectile strike on the front surface of the impenetrable target plate means, and a power source means;

at least one electronic device means in communication with the one or more target scoring device means.

35. The target scoring system of claim 34 wherein the system further comprises one or more of a transmitter means, a receiver means and a transceiver means.

36. The target scoring system of claim 34 further comprising a base station means in communication with the one or more target scoring device means.

37. The target scoring system of claim 36 wherein a processor means converts data from the two or more shockwave sensor means into a visual representation of a location of an impact location for a projectile on a display screen means for the electronic device means.

38. The target scoring system of claim 36 wherein the one or more target scoring device means and the at least one electronic device means are in wireless communication.

39. The target scoring system of claim 38 further comprising at least one signal booster means in communication with the one or more target scoring device means.