Abstract: A portable bag toss game apparatus for one or more players and method therefor is disclosed wherein a bag is tossed towards a target board which has four substantially triangular-shaped corner portions having a same color and same point value, and a substantially hexagonal shaped interior portion having a same color and a same point value, and a substantially circular-shaped center portion having a same color and a same point value.

Abstract: This device is a portable training apparatus for the evaluation of the flight trajectory and the horizontal and vertical vectors comprising the flight path of a kicked football at any distance, the device having a portable wheeled base, rigid uprights and movable trajectory indicator which may be set for optimum trajectory angle.

Abstract: A baseball pitching target having a base with a pair of vertical channels integrated thereon for insertion therein of a foldable simulated batter figure. To maintain the batter figure in an upright position there is behind the figure, also integral with the base, a vertical hollow main frame for receiving therein a tube adjustable in height with a back support/hook assembly at its upper end for attachment to the extended batter figure. This main frame also has an upper shoulder having a pivot thereon for insertion of a hole thereabout at one end of a swingable spring-loaded arm further having a glove target at its other end. Thus, all the player sees is the batter figure without distracting elements, adjustable in height to define a strike zone, and a glove target attached to an arm swingable when hit and automatically returnable to its original position.

Abstract: A target having a support sheet (1) wherein are superimposed a layer (2) of conductive paint connected to a conductive wire (3), a layer (4) of dielectric material, a layer (5) of conductive paint connected to a conductive wire (6), a layer (7) of phosphor-based electroluminescent material and a layer (8) of transparent conductive material, being the conductive wires (3 and 6) attached to a connector (9) for connection of the shooting target to an alternating or direct-current transformer (10), a photovoltaic cell or a supply battery. This target which is of the type of those used with firearms, has the peculiarity of becoming illuminated, thus enhancing its night vision.

Abstract: A computerized portable pneumatic target apparatus includes at least one target; a computer located at the firing point of a shooting range and connected by a first wireless radio frequency link to the at least one target for controlling operation of the at least one target; a shot detector located at the firing point and connected by either a second wireless radio frequency link or a wire to the computer; an air operated mechanism for raising and lowering the at least one target; a source of air pressure located near the at least one target and connected to the air operated mechanism; and a source of direct current located near the at least one target and connected to the air operated mechanism and the first wireless radio frequency link.

Abstract: A portable backstop device for enabling an individual to practice throwing and pitching baseballs without a catcher. The backstop device includes a front panel and a back panel which are attached to each other to form a backstop member. A portion of the back panel extends beyond a bottom edge of the front panel, so that the portion can be folded such that a bottom edge of the portion of the back panel can be detachably connected to the bottom edge of the front panel to define a pocket for collecting thrown and pitched baseballs. A rectangular shaped aperture formed in the front panel of the portable backstop member enables an individual to practice throwing balls and strikes without an umpire. Balls entering the aperture are collected in the pocket thus, saving time and energy spent in retrieving the thrown baseballs and also substantially prevents the baseballs from getting scuffed from hitting backfences and the like.

Abstract: A target apparatus for use in playing new target games comprises a frame within which one or more of a plurality of target zones may be visually designated, with the location of the visually designated target zone(s) changing over time in accordance with a predetermined pattern. Methods for utilizing the apparatus to play new target games are also described. Rules for three new target games (entitled SINGLES TARGET TENNIS, DOUBLES TARGET TENNIS and TEAM TARGET TENNIS) are disclosed in detail, although the apparatus may also be used to play additional target games. Electronic versions of the new target games are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides a game apparatus in which playing pieces (12) are projected at a target (2) by a player, comprising a player console (1), a target panel (2) spaced apart from the player console, playing piece projector (3) disposed at the player console for projecting a playing piece (1,2) provided by a player towards the target panel, at least one winner area (16) in the target panel and dimensioned to receive a playing piece (12) projected from the project of, and a prize issuer in response to a projected playing piece being received in the winner area. A movable cover (17) is provided to alternately obscure and expose the or each winner area (16) in a regular or random fashion.

Abstract: A method has been invented for monitoring an object passing through a frame space of a light panel, the light panel having at least one light emitter on the first side, the at least one light emitter for continuously emitting a fan-shaped light beam, across the frame through which and beyond which an object may pass, and at least one light detector on the second side of the frame and associated electronic sensing apparatus connected to the at least one light detector for continuously detecting the fan-shaped light beam from the at least one light emitter, the method including detecting with the at least one light detector and associated electronic sensing apparatus interruption by an object of the fan-shaped light beam continuously emitted by the at least one light emitter; and generating with the electronic sensing apparatus a signal signalling the interruption of the fan-shaped beam by the object.

Abstract: A fishing casting practice device includes a housing with an upper surface having at least two casting target holes of different sizes for overhand, pitching and flipping casting and a front surface having an elongated target hole for skipping casting.

Abstract: Target and shooting aid having a silhouette of a target connected to a flexible connector. The flexible connector is coupled to an attaching device for attaching the connector to the barrel of a gun. The target silhouette is sized such that it visually corresponds to an image of an actual target that a shooter would view down range. The target image may be selectively manipulated with the line of sight of a shooter.

Abstract: A maple-seed simulating autorotating flyer. The flyer is provided with a spherical shock absorbing nose section and a wing section having a substantially straight leading edge, a curved tail, a spine conformed to said leading edge and tail and a curved trailing edge. The wing is constructed of a substantially planar sheet of a lightweight, semi-rigid fabric of uniform thickness. The weight of the nose, the length and width of the wing are configured so as to impart aerodynamic characteristics to the flyer such that when thrown upward, the flyer will autorotate during descent. The flyer is used in accordance with the method of the present invention, wherein the maple-seed simulating autorotator is thrown upward from a designated throwing area. A plurality of scoring targets, each having a designated point value, are randomly positioned around the throwing area. The thrower is awarded the number of points assigned to the scoring target that is hit by, or closest to, the autorotating flyer upon landing.

Abstract: The present invention, in one embodiment, is a targeting system for a shooter of a gun, the system having a target image created by a projector and projected on a target screen or, in one embodiment, a pre-printed target. A light panel is disposed between the target and the gun so that a bullet from the gun passes through the light panel which sends signals indicative of the bullet's location and velocity to a computer in which the signals are stored and, in one aspect, analyzed and compared with additional data such as previous bullet locations, velocity, and ballistic parameters for such a bullet. In one embodiment a light panel has one or more light emitters which emit a fan-shaped beam of light in a plane and spaced apart from the emitter(s) one or more light detectors. In one aspect such a panel has on-board electronics for calculating: object (e.g. bullet) velocity; and/or object (e.g. bullet) size. Methods are described for using such systems and such panels.

Abstract: A dart board mounting structure includes one or two symmetrical dart holders which may be freely connected to an upper side or lower side of a circumferential wall of the dart board. Notches are formed in the wall of the dart board for holding the dart holders. Each dart holder is a stepped board consisting of a higher step and a lower step. The higher step has a curved surface with one or two T-shaped legs. The lower step is connected to an elongated plate via a tear-off line. The elongated plate has a plurality of jaws, and rings are disposed between adjacent jaws. A plurality of pins corresponding to the rings are provided on the lower step abutting the higher step. A stop is provided at either sides of the plurality of pins for retaining the elongated plate after it is torn off the lower step and fitted on the pins.

Abstract: A portable stoop ball striker comprising a generally A-shaped framework, which may be either a rigid or folding embodiment having a rearward tilted front panel and a forward tilted rear panel. The framework can sit upon a horizontal playing field. The front panel has a striking face divided into a flat slopped upper surface, a horizontal edge and a curved lower surface. A person can throw a ball against the striking face to rebound the ball at different angles and speeds into the playing field, depending on the skill and strength of the person throwing the ball.

Abstract: A portable practice target, for propelled balls, includes a light-weight plastic tubing and fittings framework that supports a front and a rear panel in an essentially vertical position. Three edges of the panels are attached together so that the panels fit over the vertical support like a sock or pillow case. The front panel can have a central pocket and the rear panel can have a central opening so that when the panels are positioned over the vertical support, the front panel pocket can be threaded through the rear panel opening. Adjustable strips can be used as a target area and means for adjusting the size of the pocket opening. The framework vertical support can be held in place by angled or adjustable couplings that permit the angle between the horizontal plane and the panels to be adjusted. The panels can be made resilient and elastic to rebound any ball that does not enter the pocket.

Abstract: A running target shooting range comprising an oscillating platform 21, wherein a marksman stands thereon so as to position himself or herself to fire bullets at a stationary target (not shown). The oscillating platform 21 is supported on and moves by rollers or wheels 31 which are positioned in a stationary base member 25 located below the surface of the oscillating platform 21. Pivot arm 32 engages both the stationary base member 25 and the oscillating platform 21 at a generally central location, wherein the platform is oscillatable about the pivot arm 32 when a drive mechanism, also housed in the stationary base member 25 is activated. The drive mechanism 80 comprises a gearmotor 81, which propels a rotary shaft 82 having one end engaging the motor and the other end including a small-toothed pinion wheel 84, and wherein the teeth on the pinion wheel 84 mate with matching teeth on the bottom side of a cam system when the shaft is rotated.

Abstract: A soccer type game for playing in a swimming pool, the game including first and second goals formed of a material having a density sufficient to permit the goals to lie on the bottom of the pool, and a soccer type ball filled with water and also having a density sufficient to remain on the bottom of the pool.

Abstract: A self-sealing target for firearm projectiles includes a body of an ionomeric polymer. A preferred polymer is a metallic salt of a copolymer of ethylene and a vinyl monomer having an acidic group.

Abstract: A target game for outdoor use wherein a ball is tossed or rolled toward a target with the target comprising a plurality of cups which are buried in the ground. Additionally, a backer board and rails are provided to accurately guide the ball in its path.

Abstract: A coordination-skill-oriented, action target game machine, affording opportunities to score points by successfully timing insertion of a coin or other token into the machine, by timing the token insertion in relation to the motion of a rotating aperture wheel having apertures which the token must traverse to reach a target aperture behind the aperture wheel, in order to score points for a corresponding award by a ticket dispenser mechanism. After insertion into a fixed accepting mechanism, the token rolls down an inclined ramp of the general form of a ski jump, acquiring sufficient momentum to jump to the aperture wheel, where it either passes through an aperture to reach the target aperture and score points for the player, or is blocked by the aperture wheel, if it misses any aperture of the wheel. The apertures of the aperture wheel are slots having varying widths, and the scoring is higher for plays which traverse the narrower apertures.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for sensing the position and speed (force) of a projectile striking a target of arbitrary size and shape. The strike produces an acoustic shock wave which travels outward from the point of impact, striking several acoustic sensors at the periphery of the target.

Abstract: In an improved system and method for simulating targets in which a target is moved across a background, background information and target information are stored in separate memories. Selected target information is supplied to selected background to create the simulation. The target memory contains two buffers which enables one frame of target information to be updated as a preceding frame is transmitted.

Abstract: A portable game apparatus for playing curb ball or other ball game either indoors or outdoors, having a plurality of steps (1, 2 and 3) with means for supporting the steps in a flight such that the front face and top edge of each step provides a striking surface for a ball thrown at the apparatus. A net (4) is suspended between poles (5a and 5b) attached to the top edge (16) of the top step (3) and is preferably angled forwardly at approximately 45.degree.. The net (4) serves as a back stop to keep the ball (9) from going over the top step (3) and also to ricochet the ball (3) toward the striking surfaces underlying steps. The means for supporting the steps (1, 2 and 3) in a flight is provided by supports (7a and 7b) attached to the first and top steps (3) with dowels (8a and 8b) connected vertically between the supports (7a and 7b).

Abstract: A backstop for firearm projectiles includes a body of an ionomeric polymer disposed so as to slow and stop projectiles. The body of ionomeric material may comprise a plurality of spaced-apart sheets.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a two-section flag pole comprising a pointed lower section for planting into the ground and an upper section having a colored area and a numbered flag for establishing a target in a game of flying-disc golf. Each flag may be removed from or rolled over the pole and the pole can be disassembled for ease of storage. A threaded or snap-on quick-coupler is used to assemble the two sections of each pole, so that it may be easily and quickly installed at each selected target site. The flag poles can be manufactured entirely by utilizing standard-size tubing available for gardening applications.

Abstract: A bubble skill game which is comprised ofa handle including an orifice 25a targeta reservoir for holding bubble forming liquid connected to a base 3.The game is played by holding the handle and dipping the orifice 25 into the reservoir of bubble liquid 40 forming a membrane of bubble liquid over the orifice 25. The handle is then moved through the air in the direction of the target producing numerous bubbles travelling in the direction of the target. The object is to have one or more bubbles go into the target.The handle and target can be constructed to resemble various common games of skill (golf, hockey, croquet, tennis, baseball, etc.).

Abstract: An aerial dart throwing game including a hand-held dart catcher, fixed and removable targets for temporarily holding, respectively, only a first and a second projectile thrown thereagainst, and connection arrangements to selectively detach the targets to the catcher structure. The projectile preferably includes a shuttlecock-like body having a leading end with a suction cup or a Velcro.RTM. portion.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a two-section flag pole comprising a pointed lower section for planting into the ground and an upper section having a colored area and a numbered flag for establishing a target in a game of flying-disc golf. Each flag may be removed from or rolled over the pole and the pole can be disassembled for ease of storage. A threaded or snap-on quick-coupler is used to assemble the two sections of each pole, so that it may be easily and quickly installed at each selected target site. The flag poles can be manufactured entirely by utilizing standard-size tubing available for gardening applications.

Abstract: A basketball hoop (60) mounted on the front (18) of a shirt (10) to provide a basketball game, is described. An aperture (24) through the front of the shirt serves to mount a bracket (58) to connect the basketball hoop to a support (44) housed inside an inner pocket (38) of the shirt. To play the game, a first player (100) wears the shirt with the basketball hoop extending outward from the front of the shirt. A second player then shoots a ball (66) at the basketball hoop and attempts to score goals by moving the ball through the basketball hoop. The players then switch places with the second player wearing the shirt and the first player shooting the ball. The player to record the most goals is the winner. A second embodiment comprising a basketball rim (90) having projecting arms (88) that are received in tubes (86) mounted in an inside pocket (70) provided on the shirt (74) is also described.

Abstract: A game target useable with a palm held projectile tossed at a target. The projectiles being light weight provide safe use by almost all ages. Also, younger players can be skilled enough to compete with adults. The target is mounted to tube sections which are loosely spaced on a circular formed tube but snug enough to hold position until the projectile lands. This fit in addition to the generally shaped frustum projectile and an inclined target provide the means for the target to capture the projectile landing squarely on the target landing surface. The game apparatus can be used for various games or scoring methods such as horseshoe type scoring, a horse method similar to the basketball game of Horse, use for a hole in one contest or layout of several targets for a short course golf type scoring procedure. The apparatus also can provide exercise for those who prefer activity rather than routine calisthenics. The apparatus can be used indoors with some care and discretion.

Abstract: A military hardware item, such as an aircraft fighter, is simulated in the field by the fabric sheets and light weight plastic panels stored in a cylindrical canister. The canister opens to provide two semi-cylindrical half sections that are laid end-to-end or side-by-side on a black shadow sheet. Imprinted sheets simulate the aircraft's details and are laid over these canister sections. Other aircraft regions are simulated by contoured panels and struts secured to these panels support still other sheets to simulate the aircraft's non-horizontal flight surfaces.

Abstract: This invention relates to a yard casting assembly having a main target assembly; a casting connector assembly secured to an upper surface of the main target assembly; and a casting wedge member connectable to a fishing line on a casting rod and reel assembly for casting outwardly to engage the casting connector assembly. The main target assembly can resemble fish structures, wild animals, or other structures of various shapes and includes a main base member having an upright indicator member connected thereto. The casting connector assembly is provided with a plurality of adjacent catching body members adapted to receive the casting wedge member therebetween. The casting wedge member is provided with a main body member having a wedge section to be wedged between adjacent ones of the casting connector assembly.

Abstract: A modular target system support structure for use with modular target systems simultaneously provides support and electrical contact to a plurality of target modules upon mounting and securing of the same in place on the support structure. In one embodiment, the modular target system support structure includes mechanical clamps for securing the plurality of target modules in place and electrical contacts, positioned on the mechanical clamps, for making electrical contact with the target modules automatically upon mounting and securing of the same in place. Furthermore, the modular target system support structure requires no tools for mounting or replacing target modules on or off the target field.

Abstract: A decoy aircraft construction of compact format during transport and able to form a decoy model of an aircraft on disposition on an airfield has the form of a rectilinear box blank having six primary panels joined at edges so as to form a box on bringing together free edges thereof. The panels have hinged to each of one or more thereof a single secondary panel or a secondary panel complex formed in turn of a plurality of panels hinged together. No secondary panel or secondary panel complex of the construction when folded at its hinges has overall dimensions greater than those of the primary panels. The location and shape of the secondary panel(s) and secondary panel complex(es) are such that on dismantling to a flat format, the primary panels of the box with the secondary panel(s) and secondary panel complex(es) housed therein, the secondary panel(s) and secondary panel complex(es) augment the flat format by unfolding to impart to it a three dimensional shape simulating that of an aircraft construction.

Abstract: An aerial hook and loop game comprising a string extending from a fixed support to a mobile end controlled by a game player. A carriage supported on the string for free movement there along under the force of gravity and at least one target, the carriage including hooks for engaging and supporting the target for movement along the string under the influence of gravity as controlled by the configuration and tension of the string controlled by the player by means of the manipulation of the mobile end of the string, preferably by the use of an elongate stick.

Abstract: A multi-layered target is provided in which the shooter's results are permanently recorded and displayed as a work of art. A metallic sheet layer is used in conjunction with a covering layer upon which target dots are imprinted in a desired design or pattern. By successfully shooting the target dots of the covering layer, a shooter records his shot on the underlying metallic sheet layer. A successful round of shooting is reflected in the reproduction on the metallic sheet layer of the artistic design created by the target dots. The metallic sheet layer may be framed and hung as a constant remainder of a shooter's accuracy.

Abstract: An automatic scoring apparatus for a dart game utilizing a plurality of light detecting elements situated on the periphery of a dart board. These light detecting elements are aligned to receive light emitted by a plurality of light sources so that a dart embedded in the dart board will block the path of light from the light sources to the light detecting elements. A microprocessor and associated electronic circuitry continually scan the light detecting elements to detect a decrease in the amount of light incident on any particular light detecting elements indicative of the presence of a dart in the dart board. The location of the dart is calculated mathematically from the shadow location information.

Abstract: A game in which a disc-shaped projectile is sailed toward a scoring platform. The scoring platform includes two surfaces upon which, or against which, the projectile may come to rest, and further includes a frame having an opening therethrough, through which the projectile may pass. Different points are awarded a player depending upon the disc-shaped projectile coming to rest upon one of the surfaces or passing through the opening.

Abstract: A novel decoy providing the deceptive appearance of a genuine three-dimensional object, such as a vehicle, is described which comprises a plurality of modular table units each of predetermined shape and assembled in an abutting relationship to form an outline of the vehicle, each said table unit supported by a framework including leg elements in a spaced relationship above the ground whereby a shadow is cast in said outline, to further the deceptive appearance of said decoy as viewed from the air, and a vertical element, supported by said assemblage of table units, in the shape of an elevational view of said vehicle, to provide a deceptive elevational view of said vehicle.

Abstract: An indoor gun firing range enclosure having an air supply plenum disposed at the uprange end wall of the enclosure and at least one air exhaust plenum located proximate the bullet trap located proximate the downrange end wall of the enclosure. The ceiling of the enclosure uniformly slopes downwardly from the uprange wall in a direction toward the downrange end wall of the enclosure. In an advantageous embodiment of the indoor gun firing range enclosure the air supply plenum is disposed at the intersection of the ceiling and uprange end wall and is designed to emit one-third of the air at an angle of approximately 45.degree. to the vertical and the remaining two-third portion of air in a downwardly direction.

Abstract: A game board and throwing piece combination. The throwing piece is a regular tetrahedron, and the game board has a plurality of elevations which hold the throwing piece in a manner so that one of its four surfaces is facing upwardly. Preferably, the surfaces of the tetrahedron are marked with numbers or symbols.

Abstract: A novel foldable and essentially self-opening, light weight, multi-panel ice which preferably is primarily useful as a collapsible, expendable or retrievable and reusable reflector type military decoy target, capable of reflecting microwaves, millimeter waves and light waves. Its ability to be folded relatively flat minimizes storage space requirements, thus allowing for many more units to be carried by troops in the field. With a spring-loaded "pop-open" character and capability of being constructed in several different forms or shapes, it has a unique essentially self-opening, self-orienting ability which facilitates a quick, easy and nearly automatic deployment. Functioning as a corner type reflector decoy, it reflects much more of the source-generated energy waves back to the source than would a normal size non-reflective article, irrespective of its deployed orientation relative to the source thereby deceiving the enemy into thinking that there is a large object such as a tank in that area.

Abstract: A game including a plurality of cards each having a different arrangement of colored elements. A plurality of large colored target elements are set out on a flat playing surface such as the floor to duplicate the arrangement of elements on the card that is turned up. The contestant throws a die and thus selects one of the elements as a target. A bean bag is then thrown in one or two tries to hit the individual selected target element. Turns are rotated between contestants until all of the colors are retired. A marker of like color is placed on each one as it is hit.

Abstract: In a thermal target suitable for live weapons fire, a resistive material is disposed between layers of insulation and screen like continuous electrodes. Portions of insulation are removed at predetermined locations to expose the resistive material and the continuous electrodes are fastened to the exposed resistive material. When an electrical potential is applied to the continuous electrodes the target emits thermal radiation in order to simulate a known thermal image for an infrared sighting device.

Abstract: A 3-way mini-tennis game and apparatus therefor, wherein game is played by three players or teams on a hard, smooth, and level surface using a small resilient play ball, three or six paddles or rackets, and a special 3-way ball passage defining structure placed in center of playing area on playing surface. The special structure in a preferred embodiment of the invention comprises three circular type hoops fastened together with stiff spring clips to form an upright regular pyramidal tripod, with sides of structure making a 60.degree. angle with playing surface, as measured within structure. Other optional shapes and materials can be used to form sides of structure, or a unitary, self-supporting 3-way ball passage defining pyramidal tripod structure can be used. No barrier nets are required. In general, game apparatus is safe, inexpensive, portable, and easy to set-up. Little or no boundary lines or court markings are needed. Singles or doubles can play game.

Abstract: Three to six thin, pliable, plastic trapezoidal shaped sections can be used to assemble a practical, convenient, lightweight bottomless type basket which can be used as a goal in a variety of simple indoor/outdoor team action games. The plactic sections have male-female interlocking side edge slip jointing means on two side edges and stiffening rims on the other two side edges. All sections are identical and can be stacked in a compact manner for packaging, transport, and storage. Baskets assembled using the sections are safe, lightweight, pliable, inexpensive, adaptable to stacking, and are suitable for use as goals in game play. The sections can be colored for visual effects, and perforated to reduce material costs and to give sections and baskets added pliability. The multi-sectional assembled basket goals, together with appropriate game ball, playing area, and playing surface, can be used in game play by two teams of from three to eight players each.

Abstract: A whirling toy includes a weighted object such as a small bag filled with sand attached to one end of a string. Advantageously, streamers or other means are used to stabilize the toy while it is whirled prior to release into an upward trajectory. A target pattern or tape measure is used to determine the distance of the toy, after it has fallen to the ground, from the point of release. The toy may optionally be provided with means for producing an audible sound when the whirling toy velocity reaches a preselected threshold value. Such audible sound assures, if the toy is played competitively between two or more players, that all players have the same advantage since they all release the toy when it produces the audible sound and, therefore, reaches the preselected threshold velocity.

Abstract: A soccer training goal comprising, a goal frame with a net connected thereto which defines a goal space with a goal opening. An inclined plate is connected to the goal frame at the bottom of the goal space and is inclined downwardly toward the goal opening, whereby a soccer ball kicked into the goal space will initially be retained within the goal space by hitting the net, whereby the net absorbs the impact of the ball and then rolls out of the goal back to the practicing kicker. An adjustment device may be connected between the inclined plate and the goal frame to allow for the variation of the incline on the inclined plate to vary the speed at which the soccer ball leaves the goal space. The inclined plate may further be positioned vertically and provided with markings such as for example, numbers 1 to 10 to act as a soccer ball target to be utilized in accuracy shooting practice.

Abstract: An etched plate used to simulate an infrared target for trainees using siated weapons. Selectively etching the plate in a variety of fashions successfully imitates the thermal signature of the simulated target. The simulated weapons are then "fired" at the plate and hits recorded. The plate may be electrically heated.