The present invention relates to a motorised projectile target apparatus particularly, but not necessarily exclusively, for ammunition or archery shooting, a method of maintaining a consistent end position of at least a revealed position of a projectile target, a method of reducing power consumption of battery-operable motorised projectile target apparatus, and a remotely-reorientable motorised projectile target apparatus.

Target shooting is used by shooters for training and/or pleasure. There are various types of shooting targets available on the market, adapted to suit different types or styles of shooting. Pop-up type or movable targets may utilise electric, hydraulic or pneumatic drive means to actuate movement of the target. It is usual to present the pop-up type or movable target to a shooter in a quick and unexpected manner, so as to train the reaction speed and accuracy of the shooter, or simply to make the game or experience more challenging and enjoyable. To achieve fast and unexpected movements of the shooting target, the drive means of the target is under considerable strain when in use, and it may need to be replaced after a relatively short period of use. Replacement of all or parts of the drive means add to maintenance costs of such a projectile target apparatus. It is also inconvenient if the drive means breaks down during practice or play time. A movable projectile target should ideally move by a consistent amount each time the projectile target is actuated to rotate. However, this demands a high level of accuracy and precision of the device moving the target. Coupled with the requirement of speed, this is often difficult to achieve. It is known that continued activation of the drive means even when rotation of the target is not required helps to improve the consistency of the rotation. However, this is an inefficient use of energy as the drive means has to remain switched on or energised even when rotation of the target is not required. This is particularly difficult when the target is to be used outdoors and is battery operated, therefore having a limited battery life. It is an object of the invention to provide a motorised projectile target apparatus, for example for ammunition shooting, which substantially mitigates or reduces these problems.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a remotely- reorientable motorised projectile target apparatus comprising a rotatable support; a remotely-operable actuator for adjusting an angular-orientation of the rotatable support; and a rotatable target holder supported by the rotatable support, the target holder being rotatable independently of the support, whereby adjustment of the angular-orientation of the rotatable support enables reorientation of the rotatable target holder for receiving a projectile from a projectile source.

This allows adjustment and fine-tuning of the orientation of the rotatable target holder. Even after the target holder is rotated relative to the support, the positioning of the target holder can be further adjusted by the remotely-operable actuator adjusting the rotatable support. The actuator is remotely operable such that the re-orientation of the target holder can be controlled via a user spaced a distance away from the apparatus.

This also allows multiple shooters to take part one after another, in quick succession and using a single apparatus. This increases the range of scenarios in which the apparatus can be used, especially as a team game or for pleasure, as it allows participation of multiple shooters using a single target. Preferable and/or optional features relating to the first aspect of the invention are set forth in claims 2 to 13.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a motorised projectile target apparatus comprising: a movable target holder; and a motorised cam actuator for moving the target holder between a concealed position and a revealed position; a cam surface of the cam actuator accommodating an inconsistent end position of an output shaft of a motor of the cam actuator in order to maintain a consistent end position of at least the revealed position of the target holder.

The motorised projectile target apparatus is advantageous because it ensures the target holder will move by a consistent amount of distance each time it is actuated, especially when the target holder is to move to the revealed position for a shooter to aim and shoot at. This allows the shooter to practise his or her shots in a consistent and controlled manner.

Any inconsistency in the movement of the output shaft is accommodated or tolerated by the cam actuator such that the cam actuator always imparts the same amount of movement to the target holder, even if the force imparted to the cam actuator by the motor overshoots or undershoots the intended amount.

The above is achieved by a conventional motor as actuating means, without requiring complex or intricate parts. This arrangement simplifies construction of the apparatus and reduces the number of parts involved, thus making it cost effective to manufacture. A simpler construction also reduces the likelihood of a breakdown or mechanical failure.

The cam actuator also acts as a buffer between the target holder and the motor, such that the motor does not act directly on the target holder. This dampens the impact of the force experienced by the target holder, and is more sympathetic to the components of the target holder and other parts of the apparatus. This reduces wear and tear, thus increasing the working life and longevity of the apparatus. The apparatus is also therefore easy and cost efficient to maintain.

Preferable and/or optional features relating to the second aspect of the invention are set forth in claims 15 to 38. According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of maintaining a consistent end position of at least a revealed position of a projectile target holder, the method comprising the step of providing a motorised cam actuator for moving the target holder between a concealed position and the revealed position, the cam actuator accommodating an inconsistent end position of an associated motor output shaft.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of reducing power consumption of a battery-operable motorised projectile target apparatus, the method comprising the step of providing a motorised cam actuator for moving the target holder between a concealed position and a revealed position, the cam actuator accommodating an inconsistent end position of an associated motor output shaft, thus enabling the associated motor to be de-energised at the said inconsistent end position whilst maintaining a consistent end position of the target holder at at least the revealed position.

Enabling de-energisation of the motor reduces power expenditure and is particularly advantageous if the apparatus is battery-operated, as it extends battery life and reduces running costs of the apparatus. It also reduces wear and tear on the motor by not requiring the motor to work continuously whilst the apparatus is used by the shooter.

For a better understanding of the present invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a perspective side view of a first embodiment of a motorised projectile target apparatus with a target holder in a concealed position, in accordance with the first, second, third and fourth aspects of the invention;

Figure 2 shows a perspective rear view of the motorised projectile target apparatus of Figure 1, with the target holder in the concealed position;

Figure 3 shows a perspective rear view of the motorised projectile target apparatus of Figure 1 with the target holder in a revealed position;

Figure 4 shows a perspective rear view of a second embodiment of a motorised projectile target apparatus with a target holder in a concealed position and a remotely- operable actuator in a retracted position, in accordance with the first, second, third and fourth aspects of the invention;

Figure 5 shows a perspective side view of the motorised projectile target apparatus of Figure 4 with the target holder in a first revealed position and the remotely-operable actuator in the retracted position; Figure 6 shows a perspective side view of the motorised projectile target apparatus of Figure 4 with the target holder in a further revealed position and the remotely-operable actuator in an extended position; Figure 7 shows a side view of a third embodiment of a motorised projectile target apparatus with a target holder in a concealed position in accordance with the second, third and fourth aspects of the invention;

Figure 8 shows a side view of the motorised projectile target apparatus of Figure 7, with the target holder in a revealed position; and

Figure 9 shows a side view of a fourth embodiment of a motorised projectile target apparatus with a target holder in a revealed position in accordance with the first aspect of the invention.

Referring firstly to Figures 1 to 3, a first embodiment of a motorised projectile target apparatus 10 comprises a movable target holder 12 and a motorised cam actuator 14 for moving the target holder 12.

The cam actuator 14 has a motor 16 and a cam 18 in communication with the motor 16 via an output shaft 20. A cam surface 22 of the cam actuator 14, provided on an edge of the cam 18, is arranged to impart movement of the output shaft 20 to the target holder 12.

The target holder 12 is arranged to be movable between a concealed position, shown in Figures 1 and 2, and a revealed position, shown in Figure 3, by the cam actuator 14. When in the concealed position, the target holder 12 is arranged to face away from a shooter, and when in the revealed position the target holder 12 is revealed to the shooter and is parallel or substantially parallel to a front of the apparatus 10.

In the first embodiment shown, the two positions are or are substantially 90 degrees apart, and the target holder 12 is rotatable along its vertical rotational axis between the two positions by the rotatable cam actuator 14. However, it will be appreciated that the rotational angle between the two positions may be more or less than 90 degrees, and/or the movement of the target holder 12 need not be rotational. For example, the cam actuator 14 may impart translational movement to the target holder 12, or the target holder 12 may rotate along a horizontal rotational axis.

The cam surface 22 of the cam actuator 14 is designed to accommodate inconsistencies of movement imparted by the motor 16 when the target holder 12 is rotated between the two positions. In particular, the cam surface 22 accommodates an inconsistent end position of the output shaft 20 in order to maintain a consistent end position of at least the revealed position of the target holder 12.

The motor 16 is preferably an electric motor that is de-energisable when movement of the target holder 12 is not required, i.e. once the target holder 12 has reached either one of the two positions. A battery pack 24 is preferably provided for powering the motor 16 such that the apparatus 10 is portable and suitable to be used outdoors. A base 26 is preferably provided, such that the battery pack 24 can be secured thereon by a bracket 28. The base 26 can in turn be secured to a support surface, such as on the ground, by for example screw threaded fasteners. A remote control (not shown) is preferably provided to remotely control the motor 16, which is beneficial from a safety point of view as well as for convenience.

A support, in the form of a platform 30, is preferably provided to support the cam actuator 14. A target holder shaft 32 is provided to extend from the target holder 12 and through the platform 30, and is rotatably fixed to the base 26 by a shaft holder 34 mounted to the base 26. The platform 30 is thus supported by the shaft holder 34 and target holder shaft 32, and is spaced apart from the base 26. The cam actuator 14 and the target holder 12 are positioned proximate adjacent ends of the platform 30.

The motor 16 is preferably attached to an underside 36 of the platform 30 to allow the output shaft 20 to extend through to an upper surface 38 of the platform 30, and rotatably supports the cam 18 on the upper surface 38 of the platform 30. The platform 30 is thus spaced away from the base 26 in order to accommodate the motor 16 therebetween.

The cam 18 of the cam actuator 14 has an output shaft engagement portion 40 and a cam arm 42 extending from the output shaft engagement portion 40 and towards the target holder 12.

The cam arm 42 comprises a first arm portion 44 and a second arm portion 46 extending from the first arm portion 44. The cam arm 42 is shaped such that the first arm portion 44 is preferably or substantially preferably rectilinear and the second arm portion 46 is angled and curved such that it defines an arc in relation to the output shaft 20. The second arm portion 46 thus has, in this case and preferably, a constant radius therealong.

A distal end of the first arm portion 44 connecting the second arm portion 46 is curved to create a smooth curved corner 48 rather than a sharp edged corner, the purpose of which will be discussed later.

The cam arm 42 also preferably comprises a third arm portion 50 which extends between the second arm portion 46 and the output shaft engagement portion 40. Each of the first and third arm portions 44, 50 therefore define a radius in relation to the output shaft 20. The third arm portion 50 helps to improve structural integrity of the cam arm 42, but it may be dispensed with, for example to reduce material costs.

The cam arm 42, or the cam 18 itself, is preferably integrally formed as one piece to maintain rigidity.

The apparatus 10 is arranged such that the cam actuator 14 rotates at least 90 degrees to cause the target holder 12 to also rotate 90 degrees or substantially 90 degrees. To achieve this, the motor 16 may be pre-arranged to activate rotation of the output shaft 20 for a certain amount of time, or the remote control can control activation or deactivation of the motor 16.

As shown in the first embodiment, a first stopping means, in the form of two first stopper barriers 52, is preferably provided on the platform 30 to prevent the cam 18 from over-rotating. The first stopper barriers 52 are angularly spaced apart, and a stopper arm 54 extending away from the output shaft engagement portion 40 of the cam 18 and opposing the cam arm 42 is provided to rotate between the first stopper barriers 52. The first stopper barriers 52 thus limit the rotation of the cam 18 to only the intended amount. In the first embodiment, the cam 18 is allowed to rotate up to around 145 degrees.

Preferably, an impact or shock absorbing element 56 is provided at a distal end of the stopper arm 54 to make contact and abut the stopper barriers 52 whenever the cam 18 reaches the end of each rotation. The impact absorbing element 56 is designed to soften the impact to ensure smooth rotation of the target holder 12. The impact absorbing element 56 is preferably made of resilient elastic material, preferably being rubber or an elastomer.

A cam actuator location sensor, preferably in the form of a proximity switch 57a, 57b, is located on the upper surface 38 of the platform 30 and on the cam arm 42. The platform 30 is provided with two switch components 57a that are spaced apart. The switch components 57a are positioned on the platform 30 to interact with a corresponding switch component 57b when the target holder 12 is at the concealed and revealed positions respectively. Triggering of the proximity switch 57a, 57b allows the position of the target holder 12 to be registered. Such information may be fed back to the remote control for the purposes of controlling the apparatus 10.

In order to impart rotation of the cam actuator 14 to the target holder 12, a cam follower 58 is fixedly connected to, and extends away from, the target holder shaft 32. The cam follower 58 is sized and positioned to make contact with the cam surface 22, such that when the cam actuator 14 rotates, the cam follower 58 rotates also. As the cam follower 58 is fixed relative to the target holder 12 and the target holder shaft 32, the three parts 58, 12, 32 are rotatable in tandem and along the same longitudinal rotational axis.

The arrangement of the cam actuator 14 and the cam follower 58 enables the target holder 12 to rotate in a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cam actuator 14. When in the concealed position, the cam follower 58 is arranged to contact the first arm portion 44 and the target holder 12 is rotated or substantially rotated 90 degrees away from the front of the apparatus 10. When the motor 16 is actuated, and as the cam 18 rotates, the cam follower 58 is urged to run along the cam surface 22 of the first arm portion 44, first towards the motor 16 and then away from the motor 16. As the cam 18 rotates by 90 degrees, the cam follower 58 is also rotated by 90 degrees. At this point, the target holder 12 is rotated to the revealed position parallel to the front of the apparatus 10. The revealed position allows a target (not shown) to be presented to the shooter, allowing the shooter to take aim and fire at the target.

As the cam 18 rotates beyond 90 degrees, the cam follower 58 travels beyond the curved corner 48 of the cam arm 42 and contacts the second arm portion 46, the second arm portion 46 running along the cam follower 58. However, as the second arm portion 46 has a constant radius along its length relative to the rotational axis of the cam 18, further rotation of the cam 18 does not cause any further rotation of the cam follower 58 or the target holder 12. Instead, the cam follower 58 and the target holder 12 are maintained at the revealed position.

Therefore, there is flexibility as to how far the cam 18 is required to rotate. Provided the cam 18 rotates at least 90 degrees, the shape of the cam 18, in particular the arrangement of the second arm portion 46, would maintain the target holder 12 at the revealed position. This negates the need to provide a motor 16 that imparts the same amount of rotation consistently each time, as any inconsistency is accommodated by the cam 18. This reduces complexity and costs of manufacturing of the apparatus 10. It also allows the motor to be deactivated when rotation of the target holder 12 is not required, as once the target holder 12 is in the revealed position, the cam 18 abuts the cam follower 58 and maintains the target holder 12 in that position. To return the target holder 12 to the concealed direction, the motor 16 is actuated to rotate the cam 18 in a reverse direction. This causes the cam follower 58 and the target holder 12 to also rotate in the reverse direction and back to the concealed position.

Preferably, a rotatable wheel 60 is provided at a distal end of the cam follower 58 to make contact with the cam 18 and rotates as the cam follower 58 runs along the cam surface 22. The rotatable wheel 60 dissipates at least some of the friction during rotation of the cam 18 and the cam follower 60, thus enabling smoother rotation of the target holder 12 between the concealed and revealed positions. The rotatable wheel 60 is preferably made of resilient elastic material.

A second stopping means, in the form of two second stopper barriers 62, is preferably provided on the platform 30 as secondary means to prevent the target holder 12 from unintentional over-rotation. Similarly to the first stopping means, the second stopper barriers 62 are angularly spaced apart and positioned such that the cam follower 58 can rotate between the second stopper barriers 62. The cam follower 58 thus abuts one of the second stopper barriers 62 when in the concealed and the revealed positions. Preferably, an impact dissipating or absorbing element 64 is provided on each second stopper barriers 62 to dampen the force when the cam follower 58 impacts upon the second stopper barriers 62.

A biasing means, preferably a cam follower spring biasing means 66 is provided to connect the cam follower 58 with one of the second stopper barrier 62, to bias the cam follower 58 and the target holder 12 to the concealed position. The cam follower spring biasing means 66 serves as a safety mechanism. When rotating the target holder 12 from the concealed position to the revealed position, if the cam actuator 14 is not functioning correctly and the rotation of the cam follower 58 is not complete, the target holder 12 is urged back to the concealed position or is at least prevented from continuing rotation to the revealed position.

Similarly, when rotating the target holder 12 from the revealed position to the concealed position, if the cam actuator 14 malfunctions, providing the cam follower 58 is rotated sufficiently to make contact with the second arm portion 46 of the cam 18, then the cam follower spring biasing means 66 will urge the target holder 12 to continue its rotation to the concealed position or at least prevent the target holder 12 from returning to the revealed position.

A further biasing means, preferably a cam actuator spring biasing means 68 is provided to connect the cam 18 with one of the first stopper barriers 52, to bias the cam 18 towards the end position whereby the target holder 12 is at the revealed position. This ensures that once the target holder 12 is in contact with the second arm portion 46 of the cam 18, the cam 18 is encouraged to rotate further and for the rotatable wheel 60 is encouraged to run further along the second arm portion 46. This ensures the target holder 12 is maintained at the revealed position as intended.

The shape of the first and second arm portions 44, 46 are designed such that contact is maintained between the cam follower 58 and the cam arm 42 when the target holder 12 is being rotated between the two positions. This, together with the smooth curved corner 48, helps to ensure smooth rotation of the target holder 12 without any sudden erratic movements which have a negative impact on the durability of parts and shooting experience of the shooter. The target holder 12 shown in the first embodiment is designed to hold and display targets for pellet shooting. It will be appreciated that the target holder 12 can be adapted to suit other types of projectile, such as other types of ammunition, for example bullets, stones, ball bearings, and/or arrows. The target holder 12 comprises a target support portion 70 for supporting a target thereon. A pre-defined area, namely a central circular portion 72, of the target support portion 70 is apertured to expose a similarly shaped actuatable bulls eye portion 74 positioned posteriorly of the target support portion 70. The bulls eye portion 74 is pivotably connected to the target support portion 70. Upon impact by a projectile, the actuatable bulls eye portion 74 pivots away from the target support portion 70 briefly. A sensor in two parts, in the form of a proximity sensor 76a, 76b, is attached to the bulls eye portion 74 and one of the second stopper barriers 62 respectively to sense movement of the bulls eye portion 74, and thus the number of hits can be registered and also recorded, if required. It will be appreciated that the sensor may alternatively be in the form of a movement sensor.

The first embodiment of the apparatus 10 is suitable to be used for shooting from one direction, for example for a shooter to position himself parallel to the front of the apparatus 10.

It is thus possible to provide a motorised projectile target apparatus 10 that utilises a motor and an output shaft that do not necessarily provide a consistent end position. A cam actuator is arranged such that such inconsistencies are accommodated in order to maintain a consistent end position of at least a revealed position of a target holder. This negates the need to provide a motor that is activated continuously when the apparatus is in use for shooting. This reduces the complexity, cost, and time required for manufacturing the apparatus. The cam actuator also enables smooth movement of the target holder to reduce the wear and tear of the component parts of the apparatus, making the apparatus more durable and longer lasting.

It will be appreciated that the described embodiment of the invention is merely one possible embodiment. It is also possible to provide a motorised projectile target apparatus that is remotely-reorientable, whereby the target holder can further rotate from the revealed position as illustrated in the first embodiment to at least one further revealed position.

A second embodiment illustrating a different motorised projectile target apparatus is shown in Figures 4 to 6. Similar or identical references refer to parts which are similar or identical to those described above, and therefore further detailed description is omitted.

The second embodiment of the apparatus 110 comprises a movable target holder 12 and a motorised cam actuator 14 identical to that of the first embodiment for moving the target holder 12, and a rotatable support, in the form of a rotatable platform 130. The target holder 12 is movable between the concealed position and a first revealed position in the same manner as the target holder 12 of the first embodiment. A remote control (not shown) is provided for controlling the apparatus 110, in particular, for rotating the platform 130 to enable reorientation of the target holder 12 from the first revealed position to at least one further revealed position. Similarly to the first embodiment, a battery pack 24 is preferably provided to power an electric motor 16 for actuating the cam actuator 14 upon demand to cause rotation of a cam follower 58 and thus also the target holder 12.

A remotely-operable actuator, preferably an electric linear actuator 178, is provided for actuating rotation of the rotatable platform 130 and the target holder 12 in tandem, such that the angular-orientation of the platform 130 and the target holder 12 relative to the base (omitted in Figures 4 to 6) can be adjusted. The battery pack 24 is positioned differently to the first embodiment to accommodate the linear actuator 178.

The linear actuator 178, having an actuatable arm 180 slidable into and out of an actuator housing 182, is powered by an electric actuator motor 184. The actuator housing 182 is mounted to the base (not shown), and a distal end of the actuatable arm 180 is mounted to the underside 36 of the platform 130, spaced from the target holder shaft 32.

When the target holder 12 is in the first revealed position, the linear actuator 178 can be actuated, via the remote control, to alter or further rotate the position of the target holder 12. If the actuatable arm 180 is actuated to slide out of the actuator housing 182, the platform 130 is caused to rotate relative to the rotational axis of the target holder shaft 32. The cam actuator 14 and the first and second stopper barriers 52, 62 mounted on the platform 130 rotate at the same time. As the cam follower 58, which is fixed to the target holder shaft 32, is wedged between the cam 18 and one of the second stopper barriers 62, the cam follower 58 is thus urged to follow the movement of the rotating platform 130. Thus the target holder 12 rotates in tandem with the platform 130, the two parts 12, 130 sharing the same axis of rotation.

The longer the linear actuator 178 is left in the activated state, the further the platform 130 and the target holder 12 will rotate. The linear actuator 178 can be deactivated once the desired further revealed position of the target holder 12 is reached. If multiple further revealed positions are required, the linear actuator 178 can be controlled via the remote control to achieve this. If the target holder 12 is required to return to the first revealed position, the linear actuator 178 can be controlled to retract the actuatable arm 180 to bring the platform 130 and target holder 12 back to the first revealed position. The target holder 12 can be rotated by the linear actuator by around 70 degrees.

Although not usually required, it is also possible to rotate the platform 130 and the target holder 12 when the target holder 12 is in the concealed position. When in the concealed position, the cam follower 58 is not wedged between the cam 18 and one of the second stopper barriers 62, but the cam follower spring biasing means 66 provided between the cam follower and one of the second stopper barriers 62 ensures that the target holder 12 is biased to the concealed position. Thus when the platform 130 is rotated, the cam follower spring biasing means 66 ensures the target holder 12 is rotated in tandem. Therefore, if the target holder 12 is required to be positioned between the concealed position and the first revealed position which is angled at 90 degrees, then activation of the linear actuator 178 can be used to achieve this.

It is thus possible to provide a remotely-reorientable motorised target apparatus 110 whereby the target holder 12 can rotate to the first revealed position. The exact positioning of the target holder 12 can be further adjusted or fine-tuned by a user utilising the remote control, to actuate the linear actuator 178 and thus rotating the platform 130 and the target holder 12 in tandem. This is particularly advantageous if the user is spaced far away from the apparatus 110 when shooting. For example, the user may arrange the target holder 12 in a certain orientation and then position himself a certain distance away from the apparatus 110. Depending on the type of weapon used, this distance may be relatively far, for example one hundred feet. The user may find, once he has arranged himself to an appropriate shooting position, the target holder 12 is offset and his weapon and the target holder 12 are not aligned correctly for shooting. Instead of having to return to the apparatus 110 to manually adjust the positioning of the apparatus 110, the user can utilise the remote control to remotely actuate the linear actuator 178 and thus further rotate the target holder 12 to a more correct and desirable orientation. The arrangement thus reduces set-up time and enables precise re-orientation of the target holder 12.

It is also possible to provide a remotely-reorientable motorised target apparatus 110 to allow the target holder 12 to receive projectiles from a plurality of spaced-apart sources. For example, the apparatus 110 allows at least two shooters, spaced angularly apart, to aim and shoot at the target holder 12, one shooter after the other. The position of each revealed position can be predefined by programming the linear actuator 178 to be actuated by a certain amount each time it is activated, or it can be controlled and fine- tuned by the user via the remote control.

A third embodiment illustrating a different motorised projectile target apparatus is shown in Figures 7 and 8, and is similar to the first embodiment in that a cam actuator and cam follower are used for actuating the target holder 12. However, the third embodiment can be hidden from view below ground for example, and when in the revealed position, the target holder 12 can effectively 'pop' up and be revealed to a user, which adds an element of surprise and provides a better entertainment experience. Similar or identical references refer to parts which are similar or identical to those described above, and therefore further detailed description is omitted.

The third embodiment 210 comprises a movable target holder 12 and a motorised cam actuator 214 for moving the target holder 12. Similar to the first embodiment, the cam actuator 214 has a motor (not shown) preferably powered by battery (not shown), an output shaft (not shown) associated with the motor, and a cam 218 in communication with the output shaft via an output shaft engagement portion 240. The cam 218 is similarly provided with a cam arm 242 which extends from the output shaft engagement portion 240 and has a cam surface 222. A stand or support 230 is provided, preferably in the form of two spaced apart vertical support plates 278, to support the cam actuator 214 thereacross. The cam 218 extends along a plane parallel to, and preferably spaced apart from, an outer surface 279 of one of the supports 230 to provide rotational clearance for the cam 218. The cam surface 222 comprises a first portion 244 which extends from the output shaft engagement portion 240 and a second portion 246. The first and second portions 244, 246 together define one continuous curved surface. Although the first portion 244 defines an arc of a circle, the second portion 246 extends beyond the curvature of the arc defined by the first portion 244, the purpose of which will be described below. The cam surface 222 defines a half oval or substantially half oval or a spiral shape.

The cam surface 222 also preferably comprises a third arm portion 250 which preferably has a cut-out 280 for receiving a stopping means, in the form of a stopper 252, to prevent or limit over rotating once the target holder 12 has reached its concealed position, as seen in Figure 7. It will be appreciated that a cut out may be omitted and the stopper 252 may still abut the third arm portion 250 to prevent over rotation. Similar to the first and second embodiments, an impact absorbing element, in the form of an impact absorbing layer 264 surrounding the stopper 252, may be provided for absorbing impact.

The same stopper 252 also serves to abut the first portion 244 of the cam surface 222 to prevent or limit over rotating once the target holder 12 has reached its revealed portion, as seen in Figure 8. In the third embodiment, the cam 218 is allowed to rotate up to around 270 degrees, so as to impart rotational movement to the target holder 12 for around 45 degrees. It will be appreciated that other arrangements may be provided such that the cam 218 may rotate greater or fewer than 270 degrees, and the target holder 12 greater or fewer than 45 degrees, in order to rotate the target holder 12 between the concealed and revealed positions.

A cam follower 258, differently shaped to the cam follower 58 of the first embodiment, is provided, whereby a proximal end thereof is pivotally connected to the support 230 via a pivot 282 and a distal end thereof is fixedly connected to the target holder 12 such that the target holder 12 is positioned anterior to the support 230. Similar to the first embodiment, the cam follower 258 and the target holder 12 thus rotate about the same rotational axis, in other words, they are coaxial.

The pivot 282 is spaced away from the output shaft engagement portion 240. Similar to the cam 218, the cam follower 258 extends along a plane parallel to, and preferably spaced apart from, the outer surface 279 of the support 230 to provide rotational clearance for the cam follower 258. Similar to the first embodiment, the cam actuator 214 and the cam follower 258 are preferably coplanar.

Preferably, the cam follower 258 further comprises a rotatable wheel 260 provided part way therealong to make contact with the cam 218 and rotate as the cam follower 258 runs along the cam surface 222. Similar to the rotatable wheel 60 of the first embodiment, the rotatable wheel 260 of the third embodiment dissipates at least some of the friction during rotation of the cam 218 and the cam follower 258.

The cam follower 258 is preferably reinforced with an elongate bracket 284 that extends at least part way therealong to provide additional structural rigidity to the cam follower 258.

Similar to the first embodiment, a cam actuator location sensor (not shown) may be provided on the cam arm 242 and the outer surface 279 of the support plate 278 so that the position of the target holder 12 can be registered and monitored. Such information may be fed back to a remote control for the purposes of controlling the apparatus 210 Best seen in Figure 7, when in the concealed position, the cam follower 258 is arranged to contact the first arm portion 244 and the target holder 12 is positioned directly anterior to the support 230. When the motor is actuated, the cam 218 rotates and the cam follower 258 is urged to run along the cam surface 222 of the first arm portion 244, thus rotating the target holder 12. When the cam 218 is rotated from the concealed position beyond an angle of between 240 degrees and 250 degrees, the cam follower 258 contacts the second arm portion 246. However, the second arm portion 246 is shaped in such a way that further rotation of the cam 218 does not cause any further rotation of the cam follower 258 or the target holder 12. Instead, the cam follower 258 and the target holder 12 are maintained at the revealed position. As the cam 218 rotates by around 270 degrees and eventually abuts the stopper 252, the cam follower 258 and the target holder 12 are rotated by around 45 degrees. At this point, the target holder 12 is rotated to the revealed position, and is anterior and superior to the support 230, as illustrated in Figure 8. The axis of rotation of the target holder 12 is horizontal or substantially horizontal, which is perpendicular to that of the axis of rotation target holder 12 of the first embodiment.

Similar to the first embodiment, there is therefore flexibility as to how far the cam 218 is required to rotate in order to rotate the target holder 12 to the revealed position. This negates the need to provide a motor that imparts the same amount of rotation consi stently each time .

As the cam 218 and the cam follower 258 are arranged parallel to the outer surface 279 of the support 230, gravity naturally assists with rotation of the cam 218 once the cam 218 is rotated by an angle of between 240 degrees and 250 degrees, even if the motor is deactivated at that point. This ensures the target holder 12 is maintained at its revealed position, until the cam 218 abuts the stopper 252 and thus stops rotation.

To return the target holder 12 to the concealed position, the motor is actuated to rotate the cam 218 in a reverse direction, which causes the cam follower 258 and the target holder 12 to rotate in the reverse direction under gravity. Once the cam 218 is rotated by an angle of between 20 and 30 degrees, even if the motor is deactivated at this point, the weight of the cam follower 258 rests on the cam 218 and, under gravity, urges the cam 218 to continue rotating until the cam surface 222 abuts the stopper 252. Thus concealing of the target holder 12 is ensured.

The third arrangement makes use of gravity to assist with ensuring the target holder 12 completes its rotation to the concealed position or revealed position, which negates the need to provide biasing means as a safety mechanism. It also reduces the motor activation time, which will conserve battery life.

Thus, similar to the first and second embodiments, the cam surface 222 of the cam actuator 214 of the third embodiment is designed to accommodate inconsistencies of movement imparted by the motor 16 when the target holder 12 is rotated between the two positions. All three arrangements allow smooth rotation of the target holder 12. Furthermore, as the target holder 12 is not connected directly to the motor, any shock from projectile impact on the target holder 12 will not cause any damage to the motor.

It will be appreciated that if desired, the third embodiment as discussed above can be provided on a rotatable platform 130 as disclosed in the second embodiment so that the target holder 12 can further rotate from the revealed position as illustrated in Figure 8. The third embodiment may be remotely controlled.

A fourth embodiment illustrating yet another different motorised projectile target apparatus 310 is shown in Figure 9. The fourth embodiment is similar to the second embodiment in that a rotatable support 130 is provided and a target holder 12 extending from a target holder shaft 32 is rotatably supported thereon. Similar or identical references refer to parts which are similar or identical to those described above, and therefore further detailed description is omitted.

A remotely-operable actuator, preferably an electric linear actuator 178, is provided for actuating rotation of the rotatable platform 130 and the target holder 12 in tandem or synchronously, in the same manner as the electric linear actuator 178 of the second embodiment. The angular orientation of the platform 130 and the target holder 12 can thus be adjusted.

The fourth embodiment is different from the other embodiments in that, instead of having a cam actuator and a cam follower to impart movement to the target holder 12, a motorised rotatable target holder actuator 379 having a motor 382 and a gear arrangement 380, preferably a worm gear, is provided on or adjacent to the target holder shaft 32 to directly move the target holder 12. The motor 382 can be provided adjacent the target holder shaft 32, which allows the apparatus 310 to be provided in a more compact form. The target holder shaft 32 is indirectly connected to the rotatable platform 130 via the gear arrangement 380 which is fixed to the rotatable platform 130. The rotatable platform 130 is fixed relative to the actuatable arm 180 of the linear actuator 178, and is further supported by a rotatable platform support 384.

When the apparatus 310 is activated to rotate the target holder 12 from the concealed position to the first revealed position, the motor 382 causes the worm gear to activate to rotate the target holder shaft 32. The provision of the worm gear is advantageous as it is self locking and thus ensures the rotation of the target holder 12 is consistent each time. The worm gear also serves as a physical stop to prevent movement of the target holder 12 unless the motor 382 is activated to work the worm gear or the rotatable platform 130 is activated to rotate. This is because, on bounce, the worm wheel would effectively lock up the worm and prevent the worm from movement, so that reverse torque is prevented from being transmitted from the worm wheel to the worm. However, it will be appreciated that other gear arrangements, such as a bevel gear, may be used if desired. When the target holder 12 is in the first revealed position, similar to the second embodiment, the linear actuator 178 can be actuated, via the remote control, to rotate the rotatable platform 130. As the gear arrangement, which is attached to the target holder shaft 32, is also attached to the rotatable platform 130, rotating of the rotatable platform 130 also causes the target holder 12 to rotate at the same time or synchronously.

Similar to the first and second embodiments, two second stopper barriers 62 having an impact dissipating or absorbing element 64 may optionally be provided on the rotatable platform 130 to limit the target holder 12 from unintentional over-rotation. Preferably, a stopper barrier engagement arm 386 extending outwardly from the target holder shaft 32 is provided to engage with one of the impact dissipating or absorbing elements 64 when in the concealed and the revealed positions.

As previously discussed, the movement of the target holder need not be rotational. For example, the cam actuator can be shaped and the cam follower arranged such that the cam follower moves linearly upon actuation. The target holder may then be arranged to also move substantially rectilinearly.

The provision of an electric motor and battery pack for powering the cam actuator is beneficial in allowing the apparatus to be used outdoors and be portable. However, it will be appreciated that the apparatus may be connected to other power means, such as the mains, and/or be provided with another type of motor, such as a hydraulic or pneumatic motor. Although the shape of the first and second arm portions of the cam arm is designed to maintain contact with the cam follower, it will be appreciated that the cam arm can be shaped differently as long as it imparts movement to the cam follower. The two embodiments of the apparatus show that the cam arm is a frame in the shape of a segment of a circle. However, it will be appreciated that the third arm portion may be dispensed with, if desired. Furthermore, the cam arm need not be a frame, although such an arrangement helps to reduce material costs and weight of the apparatus.

The provision of the stopper barriers and/or the spring biasing means on the cam actuator and the cam follower are advantageous, as previously described. However, it will be appreciated that for the first embodiment illustrated at least, such components may be dispensed with to reduce manufacturing costs. The fourth embodiment is such an example. Furthermore, the stopper arm and/or the cam follower may also be dispensed with or positioned differently. For example, instead of having the cam follower, the target holder can extend further towards the platform to make contact with the cam directly.

Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments, as long as it rotates at least 90 degrees, the rotation of the cam may be more or less than 145 degrees, for example between 100 degrees and 170 degrees, or more preferably 110 degrees and 160 degrees, or most preferably between 120 degrees and 150 degrees. It will be appreciated that the impact absorbing elements on the cam and/or the cam follower may be dispensed with.

The cam actuator location sensor may also be dispensed with, however sensing of the position of the target holder may be beneficial or necessary, for example, if the shooter wishes to time his shooting session from when the target holder is rotated to the revealed position. Alternatively, the cam actuator location sensor may be in the form of a movement switch

The arrangement for sensing hits hitting the bulls eye portion may be provided differently or be dispensed with. For example, an apertured area on the target holder, the bulls eye portion and proximity sensor need not be provided. A more sensitive sensor may be provided to sense impact on the target support portion instead. Furthermore, the pre-defined area may be provided anywhere on the target holder other than in the centre.

In a further arrangement, whereby the apparatus is used as part of a game, and the apparatus is connected to a display means to display graphics, then the cam actuator location sensor and the arrangement for sensing hits on the target holder may be necessary to activate and display certain aspects of the game.

Although the second embodiment illustrates the same cam actuator arrangement, motor, and motor shaft as the first embodiment, it will be appreciated that an alternative remotely-reorientable motorised projectile target apparatus need not provide all of such features. The independent rotation of the target holder may be provided by means other than a cam arrangement, for example, a motor may be provided to actuate the target holder shaft directly in order to rotate the target holder between the concealed and first revealed positions. The fourth embodiment provides such an arrangement.

The words 'comprises/comprising' and the words 'having/including' when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of this invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

The embodiments described above are provided by way of examples only, and various other modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the field without departure from the scope of the invention as herein described.