GB1066491A - Target apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

1,066,491. Targets. L. C. KNIGHT. March 31, 1964 [March 27, 1963; Jan. 30, 1964], No. 13189/64. Heading F3X. Target apparatus includes a target movable from an operative to an inoperative position, target moving means for moving the target in response to received electrical signals, manually operable target control means for initiating the signal and relaying means for relaying the signal from the target control means to the target moving means. As described a plurality of targets are movable by electric motors in response to electrical signals transmitted by cable from a relay unit which is provided with means to receive and process radio signal pulses from a command console having manually operable push-button control action producing appropriate radio signal pulses. The targets are provided with hit detection means so that an electrical impulse is transmitted to a bi-stable memory multi-switch in the relay unit and at the same time operates the target moving means to move the target from its operative to inoperative position. The relay unit has a master scanning unit which scans the memory multiswitch and generates appropriate radio signal pulses corresponding to the memory multiswitch indication of hit detection input pulses, the radio signal pulses being transmitted to and received by the command console wherein a slave scanner is synchronized with the master scanner and reproduces the hit detection input pulses for operation of hit recording means, e.g. counters. The target moving means may have a plurality of electrically operated detonators operable by the command console through the two-way radio link to simulate retaliatory fire. A switch operates to prevent the detonator blast registering as a hit. A " hold " signal may be transmitted by the command console which prevents the targets from falling due to a hit and thus permits rapid fire at the targets. The command console may be replaced by a portable control unit with a one-way radio link with the individual target receivers; however, registration of hits is not possible with this arrangement. A night shoot control apparatus may be provided so that a white lamp lights at the same time as detonation and a red lamp lights on registration of a hit. The targets are preferably of thick waterproof plywood backed by light canvas or calico and faced with canvas reinforced rubber on which is applied etching paint to form a desired pattern. The shot damage of the targets may be repaired by the application of special adhesive and sawdust.