TARGET STAND WITH MATERIALLY REDUCED BASE STRUCTURE AND FEATURES FOR MOUNTING AND MANEUVERING A TARGET ROLL

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to target stands and, more particularly, to target stands, target systems, and methods of making, assembling, and/or using a target stand that rotates a roll of targets automatically in multiple directions for practicing shooting.

BACKGROUND

Target stands are often used in shooting ranges and involve a stationary frame with a fixed paper target mounted over the stationary frame for shooting and training purposes. However, the positioning, setting, and resetting of the targets often require shooters or range personnel to continually, and physically, move and set the target, disrupting the flow of practice sessions and potentially exposing individuals to safety risks. Further, these resetting may be time-consuming and can lead to wasting of time and energy resources during the training session. Relatively large training facilities can require dedicated manpower for continuous target adjustment and can incur additional operation costs and power consumption as a result. Additionally, the fixed nature of a target can also limit the variety of shooting scenarios, thereby hindering the development of advanced skills.

SUMMARY

Implementations set forth herein relate to target stand systems, methods for making, assembling, and/or using the target stand systems, and target stands that are capable of being controlled wirelessly to allow positioning, re-positioning, setting, and/or resetting of a target from a roll of targets over the target stand. In some implementations, a target stand can be remotely controlled to set or reset a target from the roll of targets, or adjust the position of the target, which can ultimately allow users to patch and reuse target rolls. In some implementations, the target stand that is capable of being assembled and disassembled with materially less resources because of the design of the base and other features of the target stand. For example, the target stand can include a first post, a second post, a first base member to mount a first post and a second base member to mount a second post. The first post and the second post can be operable to receive a roll of targets and maneuver a target, of the roll of targets, between the first post and the second post for practicing shooting. In some implementations, the roll of targets can be mounted over the first post, and an open end of a substrate (e.g., paper, metal, plastic, etc.) from the roll of targets can extend towards the second post and ultimately couple with the second post thereby setting a desired target between the first post and the second post.

The second post can be operable to rotate and roll a layer of targets around the second post that is already used to de-roll and configure a new target from the roll of targets. The first post and the second post can optionally rotate simultaneously to de-roll a new target from the roll of targets and to further roll any used target over the second post. In some implementations, the simultaneous rotation of the first post and the second post can cause a new target to be positioned between the first post and the second post. In some implementations, the first post can include a first rotatable shaft and an optional first motor to connect to and rotate the first rotatable shaft. The first rotatable shaft can initially receive the roll of targets and the first motor can rotate the first rotatable shaft, thereby de-rolling the targets from the roll of targets. In some implementations, the first rotatable shaft can couple with the first motor, or the first motor can be an integrated component of the first rotatable shaft. For example, the first rotatable shaft can pass through a cylindrical core of the roll of targets to mount the roll of targets over the first rotatable shaft, and the first motor can receive power to rotate the first rotatable shaft to de-roll the targets from the roll of targets.

Further, the second post can include a second rotatable shaft and an optional second motor to connect with the second rotatable shaft to connect and rotate the second rotatable shaft. The second rotatable shaft can initially receive an open end the roll of targets, and the second rotatable shaft can rotate to pull and/or rotate the open end after use of a particular target from the roll of targets. As a result, the second rotatable shaft would cause another target from the roll of targets to be positioned between the first post and the second post. In some implementations, the open end of the target roll can be attached to the second rotatable shaft using an adhesive, a clip fastener, and/or any other suitable fastener or binding apparatus. In some implementations, the second rotatable shaft can be a cylindrical tube that can operate as a cylindrical core for organizing any used targets from the roll of targets (e.g., targets that may have punctures from gunshots). In some implementations, the second rotatable shaft can include a hollow cylindrical core to mount over the second rotatable shaft for organizing any used targets from the roll of targets.

In some implementations, the target stand can include a controller module for enabling a user to control the operations of the first motor and/or the second motor. The first motor and/or the second motor can be connected to the controller module for receiving a control command from the user through a remote control device. The operations of the first motor and/or the second motor can therefore operate according to the received control command from the user. The controller module can include a communication module (e.g., a Wi-Fi module, Bluetooth module, cellular module, etc.) that connects the controller module with the remote control device being accessed by the user. For example, the communication module can be a wireless communication module to wirelessly connect the remote control device with the controller module of the target stand. Such functionality can enable the user to control the target stand and configure a new or unused target at the target stand from a distance, thereby eliminating the requirement the user manually unroll targets and also promoting safety by allowing the user to remain at a safe distance. The remote control device for controlling the target stand can be any dedicated remote control device, a hand-held smart device, a smartphone that employs a target stand application, and/or any other device that is capable of being connected wirelessly with a control system or module.

Additionally, the controller module can further enable the user to operate the motors in other modes such as forward rotation, reverse rotation, rotation at a constant speed, rotation at variable speed, two-dimensional motion, three-dimensional motion, and/or any other control mode. For example, the controller module can receive a control command from the user through the remote control device and operate one or more of the motors in a forward rotation to de-roll a new target from the roll of targets. The controller module can be utilized to set the target at a desired position between the posts, and/or operate the motors in a reverse rotation to re-roll the used targets from the second post to the first post, and/or towards a center of the rotation of the roll of targets. In addition, the controller module can operate the motors at a constant speed to continuously move the targets between the posts, and/or at a variable speed to move the targets between the post at intervals of various sets of speeds, which can optionally pre-defined by the controller module and/or by the user for practicing shooting specific types of relatively difficult targets.

The capability of wireless control of the target stand from a distance eliminates the need for manual setting, resetting, and/or positioning of shotting targets, thereby preserving the time required for persons to move about a gun range to set and reset targets. Additionally, implementations of the target stand offer the benefit of customizable target positioning, allowing the user to remotely adjust the position of the target, direct movement and speed of movement with precision, and ultimately enhance safety while promoting skill development for target shooting.

In some implementations, the target stand can receive a removable column of the same, or substantially similar, height within each post, and each removable column can be set over the base. Each removable column can therefore influence mounting of the motor and the rotatable shaft over the respective removable column, and the removable column can also influence a height from the ground of any mounted target roll at the target stand. Each removable column can be fastened with a respective base member of the posts and can support respective motors using connecting members. Each respective connecting member can connect with the removable column that supports a motor, and the rotatable shaft that is to be connected with the motor, thereby forming a respective post of the target stand.

In some implementations, each base member for each respective post can include a hollow horizontal member and a hollow vertical member. Each hollow vertical member, when fully assembled with a target stand that is positioned upright on the ground for target practice (e.g., see FIG. 2), can extend from a portion of the hollow horizontal member and can include an aperture or opening at a top to receive the respective removable column. Further, the hollow horizontal member of a respective base member can include openings at ends of both legs (or arms) to pass any support member through the openings across the hollow horizontal member to support the base member and distribute weight of the target stand over the ground. Additionally, the target stand can include co-axial apertures within each post, above each post's respective base member and respective removable column, and each co-axial aperture can enable connecting additional horizontal support members between the posts to increase the stability of the target stand.

According to an embodiment, the target stand can further include bulletproof plates for each post in furtherance of shielding the rotatable shaft, motors, and/or any other portion of the target stand and/or posts from being hit by a projectile such as a bullet. The bulletproof plates can also be connected to the posts in an inclined fashion, such that the bulletproof plates face at least partially downward toward the ground. In this way, any projectiles would be re-directed in a downward direction once hitting the bulletproof plate to prevent any risk of potential damage or bodily harm. The bulletproof plates can be made of any type of bulletproof material, and/or any other type of material that can withstand and/or deflect impact from projectiles.

In some implementations, the target stand can also include a locking mechanism in the first post for locking the roll of targets over the first post and ensuring that the roll of targets will not spill out during the functioning of the target stand. In some implementations, the locking mechanism can be provided near a bottom half of the first rotatable shaft or near a top half of the first rotatable shaft. The first post can further include a top support member that can be mounted over the first rotatable shaft to secure the roll of target over the first rotatable shaft. In some implementations, the top support member can also connect with the first rotatable shaft using any other locking system, such as a threaded button lock. The threaded button lock can optionally include threads to connect two elements, and/or a thread at one side and a cavity on the opposite to receive and secure one element (e.g., the first rotatable shaft) within the cavity while connecting with another element (e.g., the top support member) using the threads at opposite side to lock one element over another.

The objective of the present disclosure is to provide a wirelessly controllable target stand that can be controlled from a distance to set the target over the target stand, thereby eliminating the need for the user, and/or any other person, to personally move within a shooting zone to change the target. Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a target stand that can be materially reduced, thereby mitigating waste of material resources during manufacturing and shipping, which can reduce consumption of energy during such undertakings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

So that the manner in which the above-recited features of the present invention are attained and can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, can be had by reference to the embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings.

This is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate some implementations and are therefore not to be considered limiting of scope.

FIG. 1 provides a view of an exemplary embodiment of a target stand, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 provides a view of an embodiment of the target stand shown in FIG. 1 with a configured target, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 provides a partial view of a first post of the target stand, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 shows a view of a first rotatable shaft with a connected first motor assembly of the first post, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 shows a partial view of a second post of the target stand, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 shows a view of a second rotatable shaft with a connected second motor of the second post, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7A shows a view of a removable column, fastened over a first base member, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7B shows an isometric view of the first base member as shown in FIG. 7A, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method of assembling the target stand, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method of operating the target stand, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Implementations of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a target stand system, a method for making, assembling, and using the target stand system, and a target stand 100 provided to be controlled remotely to enable setting, resetting, and positioning of a target from a roll of targets over the target stand 100. In particular, FIG. 1 is a view of an embodiment of a target stand 100, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 shows a view of an embodiment of the target stand 100 shown in FIG. 1 with a configured target 204, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the target stand 100 is provided with a first post 102 to secure the roll of targets 202 and a second post 104 that is provided to receive a target 204 from the roll of targets 202 to set the target 204 between the first post 102 and the second post 104 for shooting, as shown in FIG. 2. The second post 104 can be configured parallel to the first post 102. The distance between the first post 102 and the second post 104 can be defined by a user, and optionally based on the orientation of the targets 204 of the roll of targets 202 being used. For instance, the roll of targets 202 having a vertical orientation of the targets 204 can have a relatively smaller distance between the first post 102 and the second post 104, and the roll of targets 202 having a horizontal orientation of the target 204 can have a relatively greater distance between the first post 102 and the second post 104. The first post 102 and the second post 104 can be in combination referred to as “posts”, herein.

The first post 102 can include a first rotatable shaft 106 that receives the roll of targets 202, and a first motor assembly 108 connects with the first rotatable shaft 106, as shown in view of FIG. 1. The first rotatable shaft 102 can pass through a cylindrical core of the roll of targets 202 to receive and secure the roll of targets 202 over the first rotatable shaft 102, as shown in FIG. 2. In some implementations, the first rotatable shaft 102 can have the same or a bit larger outer diameter than the inner diameter of the cylindrical core to tightly secure the cylindrical core, when the roll of targets 202 is configured over the first rotatable shaft 102.

Further, the first motor assembly 108 of the first post 102 is provided to rotate the roll of targets 202 to de-roll or re-roll the targets 204 over the roll of targets 202. The first rotatable shaft 106 connects with the first motor assembly 108 from a proximal end of the first rotatable shaft 106. The first motor assembly 108 rotates the first rotatable shaft 106 to rotate the roll or targets 202. In some implementations, the first rotatable shaft 106 can removably connect with the first motor assembly 108. In other implementations, the first rotatable shaft 106 can permanently connect with the first motor assembly 108.

Further, the first post 102 can include a removable column 110 that can be configured over a first base member 112 from a distal end 140 and couples with the first motor assembly 108 and the first rotatable shaft 106 from a proximal end 142. The removable column 110 can be provided to mount the first motor assembly 108 over the removable column 110. The first post 102 can include a first connecting member 114 to connect the first motor assembly 108 and the first rotatable shaft 106 over the removable column 110.

The removable column 110 can be a vertical column that can be arranged over the first base member 112 to provide a desired height to the roll of targets 202 that can be secured over the first rotatable shaft 106. In some implementations, the target stand 100 can include a plurality of removable columns of different heights to enable the selection of the removable column 110 of a desired height. In another embodiment, a height-adjustable post can be used as a removable column 110 to enable the adjustment of the height of the target 204 set over the target stand 100.

The first connecting member 114 can include side walls with an opening at a bottom end defining a guiding groove to receive and fasten a proximal end 142 of the removable column 110 at the bottom end. Further, the first connecting member 114 can include a flat surface at an opposite top end and an aperture 126 at a center, or near a center. The flat surface at the top end enables mounting and fastening of the first motor assembly 108 with the first rotatable shaft 106 over the first connecting member 114. Further, the first base member 112 of the first post 102 is provided to support the removable column 110, and the first rotatable shaft 106 can be mounted over the removable column 110 through the first connecting member 114 and the first motor assembly 108.

According to the some implementations, the second post 104 of the target stand 100 receives and secures the target 204 extending from the roll of targets 202 mounted over the first post 102, as shown in FIG. 2. The second post 104 receives unrolled targets 204 and is used to set a new target 204 between the first post 102 and the second post 104. According to an embodiment, the second post 104 further can include a second rotatable shaft 116 that connects with the second motor assembly 118. The second rotatable shaft 116 receives and secures an open end 206 of the target 204 from the roll of targets 202. The second motor assembly 118 rotates the second rotatable shaft 116 to roll the target 204 that are used, in order to configure a new target 204 from the roll of targets between the first post 102 and the second post 104. In some implementations, the second rotatable shaft 116 includes a clipping mechanism to clip the open end 206 of the target 204 with the second rotatable shaft 116.

The second rotatable shaft 116 is a cylindrical shaft that can mount over the second motor assembly 118. In some implementations, the second rotatable shaft 116 can be a hollow cylindrical tube that can work as a cylindrical core to roll the targets 204 once they are used. In another embodiment, the second rotatable shaft 116 can secure a cylindrical core over the second rotatable shaft 116 to roll the targets after they are used for target practice or other purpose. The cylindrical core can be made of metal, plastic, cardboard, and/or any other material suitable for supporting a roll of materials.

Further, the second post 104 can include a respective removable column 120 that mounts over a second base member 122 from a distal end 144 and connects with a second connecting member 124 from a proximal end 146 of the removable column 120. The second connecting member 124 configures together the second motor assembly 118 with the connected second rotatable shaft 116, and the removable column 120. This configuration forms the second post 104 that is to be mounted over the second base member 112 from a distal end 144 of the removable column 120. The second connecting member 124 further can include side walls having an opening at a bottom defining a cavity to receive and secure the proximal end of the removable column 120. Further, the second connecting member 124 can include a flat surface at a top end to mount a second motor assembly 118. Additionally, the second connecting member 124 can include an aperture 128 at a middle portion of the second connecting member 124, and/or between two distal ends.

Further, the height of the first removable column 110 and the second removable column 120 are selected substantially same to have an even level of the first post 102 and the second post 104. However, the height of each post can be modified by a user when the target stand 100 is to be positioned on unlevel ground. The even level is kept for the alignment of the target 204 when configured between the first post 102 and the second post 104. Further, the even level is kept for axial alignment of the aperture 126 of the first connecting member 114 and the aperture 128 of the second connecting member 124. The axially alignment enables mounting a horizontal support member through the aperture 126 of the first connecting member 114 and the aperture 128 of the second connecting member 124 for additional stability.

In some implementations, the first post 102 further can include a bulletproof plate 134 and the second post can include a respective bulletproof plate 136. The bulletproof plate 134 of the first post 102 is provided to safeguard the first rotatable shaft 106 and the first motor assembly 108. Similarly, the bulletproof plate 136 of the second post 104 is provided to safeguard the respective second rotatable shaft 116 and the second motor assembly 118 of the second post 104.

FIG. 3 shows a partial view 300 of the first post 102 of the target stand 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 3, the first post 102 can include the first connecting member 114, the first motor assembly 108 that connects over the first connecting member 108, and the first rotatable shaft 106 that connects with the first motor assembly 108. Further, the first post 102 can include a top support member 130 to configure over the first rotatable shaft 106. The top support member 130 secures the first rotatable shaft 106 over the first motor assembly 108. Further, the top support member 130 locks and secures the roll of targets 202 when the top support member 130 mounts over the first rotatable shaft 106. The first post 102 can include a button lock 302 that fastens the top support member 130 over the first rotatable shaft 106.

In some implementations, the top support member 130 further can include a top surface, a bottom surface, and a plurality of side walls with an opening 308 at one side defining a cavity to receive and fasten a horizontal support member within the top support member 130. Further, the top support member 130 can include a plurality of co-axial holes 310 within opposite walls of the top support member 130. The plurality of co-axial holes 310 is provided to pass the fasteners across the walls through the horizontal support member, when the horizontal support member is configured within the top support member 130.

Similarly, the first connecting member 114 can include an enclosure at the bottom end that can be made of a plurality of side walls, and a top wall with an opening 304 defining a cavity at the bottom end of the first connecting member. The opening 304 provides a cavity to behave as an enclosure to receive a proximal end 146 of the removable column 110, as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. Additionally, the first connecting member 114 can include a plurality of co-axial holes 306 within opposite walls of the enclosure. The co-axial holes 306 are provided to pass fasteners across the side walls and through the proximal end 146 of the removable column 110 when secured within the first connecting member 114.

In some implementations, the first connecting member 114 further can include an aperture 126 defined within a middle, or near-middle, portion above the bottom enclosure of the first connecting member 114. The aperture 126 is defined at an inner side of the first connecting member 126. The aperture 126 receives a horizontal support member that provides additional stability to the target stand 100. The first post 102 of the target stand 100 can include the bulletproof plate 134 that configures at a front side of the first post 102. The bulletproof plate 134 can include a plurality of holes 312. The holes 312 are provided near a proximal end 316a and a distal end 316b of the bulletproof plate 134. The holes 312 near the proximal end 316a are provided to connect the proximal end 316a of the bulletproof plate 134 with the top support member 130 using a fastening member 314. Similarly, the holes 312 near the distal end 316b are provided to connect the distal end 316b of the bulletproof plate 134 with the first connecting member 114 using the fastening member 314. In some implementations, the bulletproof plate 134 can be connected inclined from a proximal end 316a. The inclined arrangement directs the bullet in a downward direction after hitting the bulletproof plate 134. The bulletproof plate 134 can be made of a material including carbon fiber, steel, titanium, polyurethane, or a combination thereof.

FIG. 4 shows a view 400 of a first rotatable shaft 106 with a connected first motor assembly 108 of the first post 102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 4, the first rotatable shaft 106 is made of a first wing 402a and a second wing 402b crossing the first wing 402a. The first wing 402a and the second wing 402b crosses each other from a center forming the first post 106 having a cross shape. Each of the first wind 402 and the second wing 403 of the first rotatable shaft 106 can include corners 408 at ends that are defined to lock the cylindrical core of the roll of targets 202 when configured over the first rotatable shaft 106.

The first post 102 further can include the button lock 302. The button lock 302 can include a cavity 410 on one side having a shape and dimension the same, or substantially similar, as the shape and dimension of a top of the first rotatable shaft 106. The cavity 410 can receive and conform the top of the first rotatable shaft 106. An opposite side of the button lock 302 can include a fastening member to fasten with the top support member 130 and lock the top support member 130 over the first rotatable shaft 106. Further, the button lock 302 can be removable to enable the disassembling of the first rotatable shaft 106 or to enable the configuration of the roll or targets 202 over the first rotatable shaft 106. Further, the button lock 302 locks the roll of targets 202 over the first rotatable shaft 106 when configured. The fastening member of the button lock 302 can be selected such that the fastening member can enable axial rotation of the button lock 302 and hence the first rotatable shaft 106 with the rotation of the first motor assembly 108. The first motor assembly 108 further can include a first motor 404 and an enclosure body 406 enclosing the first motor 404. The enclosure body 406 is made of a base, a plurality of side walls, and an opening at a top. The opening at the top connects a rotor shaft of the first motor 404 with the first rotatable shaft 106.

In some implementations, the first motor assembly 108 further can include a first controller module within the enclosure body 406 that connects with the first motor 404. Further, the first motor assembly 108 can include a communication module communicatively coupled with the first controller module. The communication module can connect the controller module with any external remote control device. The controller module can receive a control command from the remote control device through the communication module and accordingly can control the operation of the first motor 404 in response to the control command.

The controller module can be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the controller module can be a controller, microcontroller, and/or state machine, combinations of the same, or other suitable apparatus. The controller module can further include electrical circuitry configured to process computer-executable instructions. In some implementations, the controller module can include an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable device that performs logic operations without processing computer-executable instructions. The controller module can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a digital signal processor (DSP) and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, and/or any other such configuration. Although described herein primarily with respect to digital technology, a processor can also include primarily analog components. For example, some or all of the signal processing algorithms described herein can be implemented in analog circuitry or mixed analog and digital circuitry. The communication module can be a Bluetooth module, but in the alternative, the communication module me be Wi-Fi, mobile communication modules such as GSM or CDMA, cellular module, and/or any other short-range communication module. The communication module can enable a user to control the operation of the first motor 404 using the remote control device.

The remote control device can include a dedicated remote control device, a hand-held smart device, a smartphone, and/or any other smart device with one or more interface elements to receive the control command from the user. The buttons can be physical switches and/or touch-sensitive buttons over a touch user interface. The controller module when received the control command from the first user through the remote control device, controls the operations of the first motor 404. The operations of the first motor 404 can include forward rotation, reverse rotation, rotation at a constant speed, and/or rotation at variable speeds. For example, the user can move that target 204 in a forward direction, reverse direction, and/or at a constant speed by inputting a command to control the first motor 404 using the remote control device.

FIG. 5 shows a partial view 500 of a second post 104 of the target stand 100, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 shows a view 600 of the second rotatable shaft 116 with a connected second motor assembly 118 of the second post 104, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. Referring to view 500 of FIG. 5, the second post 104, similar to the first post 102, further can include the second connecting member 124, the second motor assembly 118 mounted over the second connecting member 124, and the second rotatable shaft 116 connected to the second motor assembly 118.

Additionally, the second post 104 further can include a respective top support member 132 that sets over the second rotatable shaft 116. The top support member 132 secures the second rotatable shaft 116 over the second motor assembly 108. The top support member 132 further can include a top surface, a bottom surface, and a plurality of side walls with an opening 508 at one side corresponding to the opening 308 of the top support member 130 of the respective first post 102. The opening 508 of the top support member 132 defines a cavity. The opening 308 of the top support member 130 of the first post 102 and the opening 508 of the top support member 132 of the second post 104 receives and fastens a horizontal support member between the first post 102 and the second post 104.

The top support member 132 of the second post 102 further can include a plurality of co-axial holes 510 within opposite walls of the top support member 132. The plurality of co-axial holes 510 receives fasteners passing across the walls through holes 510. The fasteners passing across the walls further pass through the horizontal support member, fastening the horizontal support member within the top support member 132. Similar to the first post 102, as shown in view 300 of FIG. 3, the second post 102 further can include the bulletproof plate 136 to shield the second rotatable shaft 116 and the second motor assembly 118 of the second post 102. The bulletproof plate 136 further can include a plurality of holes 514 at a proximal end 516 and a distal end 518 to configure the bulletproof plate 134 over the second post 104 through the fastening members 512. The holes 514 at the proximal end 516 connects the proximal end 516a of the bulletproof plate 136 with the top support member 132, and the holes 514 at the distal end 516b connects the distal end 516b of the bulletproof plate 136 can connect with the second connecting member 124.

Further, the second connecting member 123 can include a cavity 504 defined at a bottom end of the second connecting member 124 that receives and secures the removable column 120. Further, the second connecting member 124 can include a plurality of co-axial holes 506 that fastens the removable column 120 within the cavity 504 of the second connecting member 124 through fasteners. The second connecting member 124 further can include an aperture 128 to receive an end of a horizontal support member, when the horizontal support member is configured between the first connecting member 114 of the first post 102 and the second connecting member 124 of the second post 104. The horizontal support member can be configured to increase the stability of the target stand 100.

Further, the second motor assembly 118 further can include a second motor 502 enclosed within an enclosure 504, as shown in view 600 of FIG. 6. The enclosure 504 can include a base, a plurality of side walls defining an enclosure body 504 to enclose the second motor 502. The enclosure body 504 further can include an opening at a top to connect the second rotatable shaft 116 with the second motor 502. In some implementations, the first motor assembly 118 can further include a second controller module connected to the second motor 502. The first controller module and the second controller module can be referred to as “controller module” cumulatively. Further, the first controller module and the second controller module are connected with the communication module that connects the first controller module and the second controller module with the remote control device of the user. The controller module can receive a control command from the user and control the operation of the second motor 502 corresponding to the first motor 404.

FIG. 7A shows a view 700 of a removable column 110 fastened over a first base member 112, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7B shows an isometric view 720 of the first base member 112 as shown in FIG. 7A, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B, the first base member 112 is a T-shaped and/or Y-shaped base made of a hollow horizontal arm 702, and a hollow vertical arm 704 extending upright from the hollow horizontal arm 702. The hollow vertical arm 704 extends upright from the hollow horizontal arm 702 between two distal ends of the hollow horizontal arm 702. Further, the hollow vertical arm 704 receives and fastens the distal end 140 of the removable column 110. The hollow vertical arm 704 can include an opening 708 at a top defining a cavity to receive the distal end 140 of the removable column 110, as shown in view 720 of FIG. 7B. Further, the hollow vertical arm 704 can include a plurality of co-axial holes 706 within opposite walls of the hollow vertical arm 704 to pass fastener across the opposite walls through the holes 706. Further, the fasteners pass through the removable column 110 to fasten the removable column 110 within the hollow vertical arm 704.

Further, the hollow horizontal arm 702 can include openings 710 at ends of the hollow horizontal arm 702, as shown in FIG. 7B. The openings 710 receives a support member 138 to the stability of the target stand 100, and the support member 138 can be provided by a user of the target stand 100 rather than an entity that manufactures the target stand 100, thereby mitigating shipping weight of the target stand 100 and energy consumed when shipping the target stand 100 to users. The support member 138 can pass through the opening 710, across the hollow horizontal arm 702 to provide the stability to the first base member 112. Further, the hollow horizontal arm 702 can include a plurality of holes 706 within a top surface of the hollow horizontal arm 702. The plurality of holes 706 fastens the support member 138 within the hollow horizontal arm 702 using the fasteners. Similarly, this is to be well understood that, the second post 104 further can include the respective second base member 122 corresponding to the first base member 122 of the first post 102. The second base member 122 can receive and configure the removable column 120 of the second post 104.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a method 800 of assembling the target stand 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. According to some implementations of the present disclosure, the method 800 of manufacturing the target stand 100 can include an operation 802 forming a first base member 112 to receive a first removable column 110. The first base member 112 can include a hollow horizontal arm 702 and a hollow vertical arm 704 extending upright from the hollow horizontal arm 702 with an opening at a top to receive the first removable column 110. Further, the method 800 can include an operation 804 of forming a second base member 122 to receive a corresponding second removable column 120. The second base member 122 can include a corresponding hollow horizontal arm and a hollow vertical arm extending from the hollow horizontal arm with an opening at a top receive the corresponding second removable column 120.

Further, the method 800 can include an operation 806 of fastening the first removable column 110 from one end within the corresponding first base members 112. For example, the first removable column 110 is mounted within the opening of the hollow horizontal arm of the first base member 112. Further, the method 800 can include an operation 808 of fastening the second removable column 120 from one end within the corresponding second base member 122. For example, the second removable column 120 is mounted within the opening of the hollow horizontal arm of the second base member 122. Further, the method 800 can include an operation 810 of mounting a first motor assembly 108 and a second motor assembly 118 to a respective first connecting member 114 and a second connecting member 124. Further, the method 800 can include an operation 812 of connecting a first rotatable shaft 106 with the first motor assembly 108 and a second rotatable shaft 116 with the second motor assembly 118. Further, the method 800 can include an operation 814 of mounting a roll of targets 202 over the first rotatable shaft 106.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method 900 of operating the target stand 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 9, the method 900 can include an operation 902 wherein the roll of targets 202 can be received and mounted over the first rotatable shaft 106. For example, the first rotatable shaft 106 can be passed through a cylindrical core of the roll of targets 202 mounting the roll of targets over the first post 102.

Further, the method 900 can include an operation 904 wherein an open end 206 of a target 204 from the roll of targets 202 is extended towards the second post 104. For example, the open end 206 is extended towards the second post 104 to configure the target 204 between the first post 102 and the second post 104. Further, the method 900 can include an operation 906 wherein the extended open end 206 of the target 204 is connected with a second rotatable shaft 116 of the second post. For example, the open end 206 of the target 204 can be clipped on the second rotatable shaft 116 setting the target 204 between the first post 102 and the second post 104 for practicing shooting.

Further, the method 900 can include an operation 908 wherein the second motor 502 can rotate the second rotatable shaft 116 to roll the target 204 over the second rotatable shaft 116 that are used. For example, the target stand 100 receives a control command from a user through a remote control device and rotates the second motor 502 in response to the control command that ultimately rotates the second rotatable shaft 116 to roll the used target 204. Simultaneously and/or separately, the method 900 can include an operation 910 wherein the first motor 404 can rotate the first rotatable shaft 106 and hence the roll of target 202 to de-roll and set a new target 204 from the roll of targets 202 between the first post 102 and the second post 104. For example, in response to the control command received from the user through the remote control device, the first motor 404 can rotate de-rolling a new target 204 from the roll of targets 202 that automatically sets between the first post 102 and the second post 104 because of the simultaneous rotation of the second motor 502.

In some implementations, the target stand can include a first post to configure the roll of targets, a second post to mount parallel to the first post to position a target from the roll of targets between the first post and the second post, and a first base member and a second base member to mount the respective first post and the second post. Each of the first base member and the second base member can include a hollow horizontal arm to receive a corresponding support member to provide stability, and a hollow vertical arm extending upright from the horizontal arm to mount a respective post. The hollow vertical arm of each corresponding base member can include an opening, facing away from the ground on which the base member can rest, to receive, mount and/or fasten a respective post.

In some implementations, the first post can include a first rotatable shaft, a first motor to connect at a bottom end of the first rotatable shaft to rotate the first rotatable shaft, a removable column to fasten over the corresponding first base member from one end, and a first connecting member to configure together the first motor and the removable column through the first connecting member. The first rotatable shaft is connected with the first motor from a bottom end of the first rotatable shaft. Further, the first motor is enclosed within an enclosure body having an opening at a top to connect the first rotatable shaft with the first motor. The first connecting member further can include a guiding groove at a bottom end to secure and fasten an opposite end of the removable column, and an opposite top end to mount the enclosure body enclosing the first motor. The enclosure body enclosing the first motor is configured to connect to the top end of the first connecting member, thus, mounting the first motor with the first rotatable shaft over the first connecting member.

The first rotatable shaft of the first post is configured to configure the roll of targets over the first rotatable shaft, and rotate the first rotatable shaft to roll-out the target from the roll of targets configured over the first rotatable shaft. According to some implementations, the first post can further comprise a locking mechanism to lock and secure the roll of targets over the first rotating shaft. The locking mechanism can be provided at the bottom end of the first rotatable shaft. The second post of the target stand further can include a second rotatable shaft, a second motor to connect at a bottom end of the second rotatable shaft to rotate the second rotatable shaft, a removable column to fasten over the corresponding second base member from one end, and a second connecting member to configure together the second motor and the removable column through the second connecting member. The second motor is enclosed within the enclosure body having an opening at a top to connect the second rotatable shaft with the second motor.

The second connecting member further can include a guiding groove at a bottom end to secure and fasten an opposite end of the removable column, and an opposite top end to mount the enclosure body enclosing the second motor. The second rotatable shaft is configured to receive and secure an open end of the target extended from the roll of the targets to set the target between the first post and the second post for use of the target. Further, the second rotatable shaft is configured to rotate by the second motor to roll the used target over the second rotatable shaft. In another embodiment, the second rotatable shaft can further comprise a fastening mechanism to hold and secure the open end of the target from the roll of targets. According to the present aspect, the target stand further can include a controller module connected to the first motor of the first post and the second motor of the second post. Further, the target stand can include a communication module communicatively coupled with the controller module.

The controller module is configured to receive a control command from a user through the communication module. Further, the controller module is configured to control an operation of the first motor and the second motor in response to the control command received from the user. The controller module is provided to connect with a remote control device through the communication module to receive the control command from the user. The remote control device can include, but is not limited to, a dedicated remote control device, a hand-held smart device, a smartphone, or any other smart device. In some implementations, the target stand further can include a bulletproof plate provided with each of the first post and the second post to shield a respective rotating shaft of a corresponding post. In some implementations, the target stand further can include an aperture at a center of each of the first connecting member and the second connecting member of a respective post to configure a horizontal support member between the respective posts for the stability of the target stand.

In some implementations, the target stand further can include an aperture at a top of each of the first post and the second post to configure another horizontal support member between the respective posts to increase the stability of the target stand. While the foregoing is directed to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention can be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow.

In some implementations, a target stand is set forth as including a first post to configure a roll of targets; a second post to mount adjacent or parallel to the first post to receive and set a target from the roll of targets between the first post and the second post; and a first base member and a second base member to mount the respective first post and the second post, wherein each of the first base member and the second base member include: a hollow horizontal arm to receive a corresponding support member to provide stability; and a hollow vertical arm extending upright from between distal ends of the horizontal arm to mount a respective post.

In some implementations, the first post further comprises: a first rotatable shaft; a first motor to connect at a bottom end of the first rotatable shaft to rotate the first rotatable shaft, wherein the first motor is enclosed within an enclosure body having an opening at a first end to connect the first rotatable shaft with the first motor; a removable column to fasten over the corresponding first base member from one end; and a first connecting member to configure together the first motor and the removable column through the first connecting member.

In some implementations, the first connecting member comprises: a guiding groove at a bottom end to secure and fasten an opposite end of the removable column; and an opposite end to mount the enclosure body enclosing the first motor. In some implementations, each respective vertical arm of the first base member and the second base member comprises an opening at a distal end to mount and fasten the respective post. In some implementations, the first rotatable shaft of the first post is configured to: configure the roll of targets over the first rotatable shaft; and rotate the first rotatable shaft to roll-out the target from the roll of targets configured over the first rotatable shaft. In some implementations, the first post further comprises: a locking mechanism at a distal end of the first rotatable shaft to lock the roll of targets over the first rotatable shaft. In some implementations, the second post further comprises: a second rotatable shaft; a second motor to connect at a bottom end of the second rotatable shaft to rotate the second rotatable shaft, wherein the second motor is enclosed within the enclosure body having an opening at a second end to connect the second rotatable shaft with the second motor; a removable column to fasten over the corresponding second base member from one end; and a second connecting member to configure together the second motor and the removable column through the second connecting member.

In some implementations, the second connecting member comprises: a guiding groove at a bottom end to secure and fasten an opposite end of the removable column; and another opposite end to mount the enclosure body enclosing the second motor. In some implementations, the second rotatable shaft is configured to: receive and secure an open end of the target extended from the roll of the targets to set the target between the first post and the second post for use of the target; and rotate by the second motor to roll the used target over the second rotatable shaft. In some implementations, the second rotatable shaft further comprises a fastening mechanism to hold and secure the open end of the target from the roll of targets.

In some implementations, the target stand can further include a controller module that is connected to the first motor of the first post and the second motor of the second post; and a communication module communicatively coupled with the controller module. In some implementations, the controller module is configured to perform operations that include: receiving a control command from a user through the communication module; and controlling, in response to receiving the control command, an operation of the first motor and the second motor. In some implementations, the control module is configured to connect wirelessly with a remote control device through the communication module to receive the control command from the user, the remote control device includes: a dedicated remote control device, a hand-held smart device, a smart phone, or any other smart device.

In some implementations, each of the first post and the second post further comprises a bulletproof plate configured to shield a respective rotating shaft and motor of a corresponding post. In some implementations, each of the first connecting member and the second connecting member of a respective post further comprises an aperture at a center to configure a horizontal support member between the respective post for the stability of the target stand. In some implementations, each of the first post and the second post further comprises an aperture at a distal end of the respective post to configure another horizontal support member between the respective posts to increase the stability of the target stand.

In other implementations, a target stand is set forth as including a first post to mount over a first base member; a first rotatable shaft to configure a roll of targets; and a second post to mount adjacent or parallel to the first post over to a second base member to set a target between the first post and the second post, wherein the second post further comprises: a second rotatable shaft to receive and roll the targets from the roll of targets configured over the first rotatable shaft. In some implementations, each of the first base member and the second base member further comprising: a hollow horizontal arm to receive a support member to provide stability; and a hollow vertical arm extending upright from a center of the hollow horizontal arm to mount a respective post. In some implementations, the target from the roll of targets is configured for: extending from the first rotatable shaft; connecting to the second rotatable shaft from an open end of the target to set the target between the first upright post and the second upright post; and rolling over the second rotatable shaft by the second motor after use of the set target.

In yet other implementations, a target stand system is set forth as including a target stand, comprising: a first upright post to mount over a first base member and configured to secure a roll of targets, the first upright post further comprising: a first rotatable shaft; a first motor to connect at a bottom end of the first rotatable shaft to rotate the first rotatable shaft; a removable column to fasten over the first base member; and a first connecting member to configure together the first rotatable shaft, the first motor, and the removable column; a second upright post to mount adjacent or parallel to the first upright post over a second base member, the second upright post further comprising: a second rotatable shaft; a second motor to connect at a bottom end of the second rotatable shaft to rotate the second rotatable shaft: a removable column to fasten over the second base member; and a second connecting member to configure together the second motor and the removable column through the second connecting member; and a control module coupled with the first motor and the second motor; and a remote control device. In some implementations, each of the first motor and the second motor is enclosed within a respective enclosure body having an opening at a distal end to connect a respective rotatable shaft with the respective motor.

In yet other implementations, a method is set forth as including operations such as forming a first base member having a hollow horizontal arm and a hollow vertical arm extending from the hollow horizontal arm with an opening at a distal end to receive a first removable column. The method can further include forming a second base member having a corresponding hollow horizontal arm and a hollow vertical arm extending from the hollow horizontal arm with an opening at another distal end to receive a corresponding second removable column. The method can further include fastening the respective first removable column and the second removable column from one end within a respective aperture of a corresponding hollow horizontal arm. The method can further include mounting a first motor assembly and a second motor assembly to a respective connecting member. The method can further include connecting a first rotatable shaft with the first motor and a second rotatable shaft with the second motor. The method can further include mounting a roll of targets over the first rotatable shaft. The method can further include extending an open end of a target from the roll of targets and connecting with the second rotatable shaft. In some implementations, the method can include an operation of forming an opening at ends of each of the hollow horizontal arms of the respective base member to receive a horizontal support member that includes wood, plastic, or metal provided by a user.

TARGET STAND WITH MATERIALLY REDUCED BASE STRUCTURE AND FEATURES FOR MOUNTING AND MANEUVERING A TARGET ROLL

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CPC

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Abstract

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Claims