Abstract
A Fencing Target Training System that can be used, anytime and anywhere it is properly installed, by a single user, multiple fencers/users, coach(es), and others for as long as desired to practice, train, coach, and conduct recreational fencing with a stand-alone system when other options are not available or as a complimentary system to traditional methods. It is comprised of three major entities: A main wall mounted opponent fencer target henceforth referred to as (40) which can be replaced with other FTTS targes as presented in FIGS. 19 through 37; a supporting wall or ceiling mounted opponent fencer simulated interaction/reaction sword blade contraption henceforth referred to as (42) with and optional add-on target of (98); and a strip (or piste)/foot placement measuring tape henceforth referred to as (44), and as all depicted in FIG. 1. The advantages of the FTTS are an integrated system that provides the individual fencer or multiple users with an interactive and hybrid way to practice/train for speed, accuracy, timing, mental focus, visualization, form/footwork, techniques, tactics, procedures, physical fitness and endurance, or other activities related to the sport of fencing and other recreational uses in a club, home, or other place of sport/recreational usage.
Claims
1. A vertically mounted opponent fencer target as part of a fencer target training system, comprising:
2. The vertically mounted opponent fencer target as in claim 1, wherein said body is comprised of inner layers of various thickness and density foam cushioning material and rubber matting that is held in place by sufficient fabric to cover the various general fencer target outlines and smaller specific targets imposed on the surface of it and to subsequently fold it over and attach it to a backboard that has attachment devices using hook and loop fasteners on adhesive strips to mount the body unto vertical support for usage and target practice.
3. A vertically mounted and hanging opponent fencer simulated interaction/reaction sword blade contraption as part of a fencer target training system, comprising:
4. The vertically mounted and hanging opponent fencer simulated interaction/reaction sword blade contraption as in claim 3, wherein said contraption is comprised of a mounting bracket to vertically hang by carabiner the upper simulated blade which is made of a length of hollow tube with inner wiring that that is looped unto itself around thimbles and then crimped unto the wire using clamps at both ends of the tube; unto and below can be attached a cube comprised of weighted plates, padding, carabiners at the top and bottom each with adjustable straps attached to holes in center weighted plates, and shaped fabric with specific targets and shape outlines imposed unto it and all wrapped around the core pieces and secured using sewing and hook and loop fasteners; unto and below can be attached a small sphere target ball with inserted anchor points at the top and bottom ends with carabiners to attach to vertical simulated blades; unto and below can be attached a bigger sphere target ball with inserted anchor points at the top and bottom ends with carabiners to attach to vertical simulated blades; unto and below can be attached a lower simulated blade which is comprised of a length of hollow tube with inner wiring that that is looped unto itself around thimbles and then crimped unto the wire using clamps at both ends of the tube; unto and below can be attached by a carabiner a floor anchor point comprised of a weighted inner core, such as steel bearings, sand, or stone pebbles, surrounded by padding and shaped fabric with a specific target on top surface and shape outlines imposed unto it and all wrapped around the inner core pieces and secured using sewing and hook and loop fasteners with a top mounted and secured by sewing attachment point for the carabiner connection to the lower vertical simulated blade when in use.
5. The cylindrical target attachment as part of claim 3, wherein said body is an elongated unit with sewn on anchor points at each end; the device is comprised of a rigid cylinder inner foam core with layers of various thickness and density cushioning soft foam and rubber matting around it that are all held in place by a covering fabric with various general fencer target outlines and smaller specific targets imposed on the surface of it which subsequently are sewn and held together by hook and loop fasteners to make one unit that can be attached by carabiners and a hanging strap with anchor point buckles to the mounting bracket in claim 4 and used as a separate free hanging target device without the simulated blades.
6. A strip/foot placement measuring tape as part of a fencer target training system, comprising:
7. The simulated strip/foot placement measuring tape as in claim 6, wherein said device has a strap that is adjustable for length using triglides sliding buckles; integral and triglides sliding buckles with attached distance markers using fabric with instructions imposed unto them and then attached to the strap; a piste/strip center line-indicator is imposed unto the piste/strip strap center; and two integrated piste/strip weighted floor anchors inserted into the looped piste/strip strap itself using hook and loop fasteners and sewing at each end.
Description
DRAWINGS—FIGURES
[0016] I have included a total of 54 figures, including depicting right and left-handed targets where pertinent:
[0017] FIG. 1—Shows a general front oblique view of the FITS compromised of (40), (42), and (44) with a user/fencer (46)
[0018] FIG. 2—Shows a front oblique view of (40) displaying the outline of right-handed fencer target (40) with various smaller shaped targets (52, 54, 56, and 58).
[0019] FIG. 3—Shows a side cut view of (40) and its main components.
[0020] FIG. 4—Shows back view of (40) and its main components.
[0021] FIG. 5—Shows separate parts compromising the (42) contraption.
[0022] FIG. 6—Shows cut view (104) of vertical tubes (96), internal cable (106), and anchor loop points (108) as part of (42).
[0023] FIG. 7—Shows front and back views of (94). They are identical except center dots (110) are of different colors.
[0024] FIG. 8—Shows front oblique and side view of floor anchor/foot target attachment (98) for (42).
[0025] FIG. 9—Shows front, back, left-side, and right-side views of cylindrical FTTS target attachment (114) as an add-on to (42).
[0026] FIG. 10—Shows (42) using (70) to mount to wall above and in front of (40) in relation to user/fencer (128); including contraption with simulated hand/diamond attachment (94) attached to upper and lower vertical tube attachments (96), and anchor (98) placed on floor.
[0027] FIG. 11—Shows (42) using (102) to mount in ceiling above and in front of (40) in relation to user/fencer (128); including contraption with ball attachment (92), (100), with no lower vertical tube attachment (96), and an unused anchor (98) placed on floor.
[0028] FIG. 12—Shows (42) mounted to wall above and in front of (40) in relation to user/fencer (128); including cylindrical target attachment (114) attached to (42) via (102) and (96) and likewise to anchor attachment (98) placed on floor.
[0029] FIG. 13—Shows separate parts compromising (44) contraption.
[0030] FIG. 14—Shows back top view of (44) contraption with band (134) and floor anchors (138) as placed on floor.
[0031] FIG. 15—Shows front top view of (44) contraption with band (134), floor anchors (138), and distance markers (130) as placed on floor.
[0032] FIG. 16—Shows side view of (44) contraption with band (134), floor anchors (138), and distance markers (130) as placed on floor.
[0033] FIG. 17—Shows distance markers (130) with Velcro to attach to tri-glide slider (132).
[0034] FIG. 18—Shows top, back, and side view of floor anchor (138) with Velcro and attached tri-glide slider (132).
[0035] FIG. 19—FIG. 19 depicts a 12″×12″ (Depth:˜2″) target that consists of a center bullseye with two larger concentric circles around it and with a “burst” pattern array of multiple smaller targets in various shapes, like triangles, diamonds, and trapezoids, each with various colored dots in their center and all of them inside a red safety border line to alert the user to where the edge of the target is. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), and trapezoid shaped targets (56) are indicated. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form.
[0036] FIG. 20—FIG. 20 depicts a 24″×24″ (Depth:˜2″) target that consists of a center bullseye with two larger concentric circles around it and with a two tier “burst” pattern array of multiple smaller targets in various shapes, like triangles, diamonds, and trapezoids, each with various colored dots in their center and all of them inside a red safety border line to alert the user to where the edge of the target is. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), and trapezoid shaped targets (56) are indicated. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form.
[0037] FIG. 21A & 21B.—FIGS. 21A (right-handed) and 21B (left-handed) are 24″×24″ (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a male epee fencer in the right and left hand on-guard positions. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0038] FIG. 22A & 22B.—FIGS. 22A (right-handed) and 22B (left-handed) are 24″×24″ (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a male foil fencer in the right and left hand on-guard positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and assessment. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0039] FIG. 23A & 23B.—FIGS. 23A (right-handed) and 23B (left-handed) are 24″×24″ (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a female epee fencer in the right and left hand on-guard positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and assessment. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0040] FIG. 24A & 24B.—FIGS. 24A (right-handed) and 24B (left-handed) are 24″×24″ (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a female foil fencer in the right and left hand on-guard positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and assessment. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0041] FIG. 25A & 25B.—FIGS. 25A (right-handed) and 25B (left-handed) are 24″×24″ (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a boy epee fencer in the right and left hand on-guard positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and assessment plus two other various sized and colored target dots below it in a vertical line. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0042] FIG. 26A & 26B.—FIGS. 26A (right-handed) and 26B (left-handed) are 24″×24″ (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a boy foil fencer in the right and left hand on-guard positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and assessment plus two other various sized and colored target dots below it in a vertical line. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0043] FIG. 27A & 27B.—FIGS. 27A (right-handed) and 27B (left-handed) are 24″(W)×36″(H) (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a male epee fencer in the right and left hand on-guard positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and assessment. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0044] FIG. 28A & 28B.—FIGS. 28A (right-handed) and 28B (left-handed) are 24″(W)×36″(H) (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a male foil fencer in the right and left hand on-guard positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and assessment. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0045] FIG. 29A & 29B.—FIGS. 29A (right-handed) and 29B (left-handed) are 24″(W)×36″(H) (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a female epee fencer in the right and left hand on-guard positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and assessment. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0046] FIG. 30A & 30B.—FIGS. 30A (right-handed) and 30B (left-handed) are 24″(W)×36″(H) (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a female foil fencer in the right and left hand on-guard positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and assessment. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0047] FIG. 31A & 31B.—FIGS. 31A (right-handed) and 31B (left-handed) are 24″(W)×36″(H) (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a boy epee fencer in the right and left hand on-guard positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and assessment plus two other various sized and colored target dots below it in a vertical line. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0048] FIG. 32A & 32B.—FIGS. 32A (right-handed) and 32B (left-handed) are 24″(W)×36″(H) (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a boy foil fencer in the right and left hand on-guard positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and assessment plus two other various sized and colored target dots below it in a vertical line. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0049] FIG. 33A & 33B.—FIGS. 33A (right-handed) and 33B (left-handed) are 24″(W)×36″(H) (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a male epee fencer in the right- and left-handed crouching positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and. The targets are an additional optional part of the FITS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0050] FIG. 34A & 34B.—FIGS. 34A (right-handed) and 34B (left-handed) are 24″(W)×36″(H) (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a male foil fencer in the right- and left-handed crouching positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and. The targets are an additional optional part of the FITS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0051] FIG. 35A & 35B.—FIGS. 35A (right-handed) and 35B (left-handed) are 24″(W)×36″(H) (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a male epee fencer in the right- and left-handed lunge positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0052] FIG. 36A & 36B.—FIGS. 36A (right-handed) and 36B (left-handed) are 24″(W)×36″(H) (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a male foil fencer in the right- and left-handed lunge positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
[0053] FIG. 37A & 37B.—FIGS. 37A (right-handed) and 37B (left-handed) are 24″(W)×24″(H) (Depth:˜2″) wall targets with depiction of a male sabre fencer in the right- and left-handed lunge positions. There are numerous smaller targets in various shapes (such as a diamond, triangle, and trapezoid) with various colored dots in the center inside the overall fencer shape. This follows the FIG. 21A/B general concept but is specific to the size/outline of this target and the weapon it is intended for in training. Additionally, there is a separate bullseye target for hit accuracy training and. The targets are an additional optional part of the FTTS and can be selected based on weapon used and/or training performed. They are used for fencing training, practice, and drills to work on focus, precision, hit placement, speed, techniques, and form. The colored dots (50), diamond shape targets (52), triangle shaped targets (54), trapezoid shaped targets (56), and a bullseye (58) are indicated.
DRAWINGS—REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0054] 40—A mounted FTTS opponent fencer target (FIG. 21A target type shown) [0055] 42—Supporting mounted opponent fencer interaction/reaction contraption with Diamond Target Attachment [0056] 44—Strip (or piste) starting position placement/footwork measuring tape [0057] 46—User/Fencer [0058] 48—Right-handed fencer target outline (FIG. 21A target type shown) [0059] 50—Colored target focus dot [0060] 52—Diamond target [0061] 54—Triangle target [0062] 56—Trapezoid target [0063] 58—Bullseye target [0064] 60—Vertical line indication of diminishing upper torso target area away from user/fencer [0065] 62—Target material stretched over mounting frame [0066] 64—Inside target rim colored warning border line (to prevent fencer hitting the wall) [0067] 66—Folded fabric cover around front to back of (24) (all FTTS wall targets) [0068] 68—Rubber matting within (24) (all FTTS wall targets) [0069] 70—Soft foam cushion material within (24) (all FTTS wall targets) [0070] 72—Semi-rigid cushion material within (24) (all FTTS wall targets) [0071] 74—Rigid backboard of (24) (all FTTS wall targets) [0072] 76—Staples for securing (50) over (52/54/56) to (58) [0073] 78—Wall attachment points secured by staples to back of (24) [0074] 80—Back of (24) as prepared for mounting to vertical surface such as a wall [0075] 82—Attachment points for vertical surface mounting of (40) by interlocking and connecting (82) to (78), which is then mounted to wall using glue on the backside of (82) [0076] 84—Wall bracket; part of (42) [0077] 86—Cord; part of (42) [0078] 88—Control line with wall eye; part of (42) [0079] 90—Small sphere target; part of (42) [0080] 92—Bigger sphere target; part of (42) [0081] 94—Weighted cube with diamond/colored dot targets; part of (42) [0082] 96—Vertical tubes with wire/attachment loop/points; part of (42) [0083] 98—Floor anchor with diamond/colored dot target; part of (42) [0084] 100—Carabiners (big and small); part of (42) [0085] 102—Ceiling attachment mount; part of (42) [0086] 104—Cut view of vertical tube [0087] 106—Wire [0088] 108—Attachment loop/anchor point [0089] 110—Colored dot target within diamond outline on (94); attachment hooks shown [0090] 112—Front right oblique and side view of floor anchor (98) with diamond/colored dot target; part of (42) [0091] 114—FTTS Cylinder Target with Sabre, foil, and/or epee covers [0092] 116—Trapezoid with center colored dot target [0093] 118—Outline of Saber and mask directly added to cover; can serve as either front or back side of (114) [0094] 120—Outline of foil/epee and mask directly added to cover; can serve as either front or back side of (114) [0095] 122—Inner core consisting of rigid foam, soft foam, and rubber matting [0096] 124—Side views of (114) [0097] 126—Anchor point for attachment to (96) using (100)s as part of (42) [0098] 128—Side view of user/fencer in on-guard position [0099] 130—Distance markers [0100] 132—Triglides sliders [0101] 134—Piste/Strip strap [0102] 136—Attachment closing to secure (134) to (138) [0103] 138—Piste/strip weighted floor anchor [0104] 140—Stitching [0105] 142—Piste/strip center-line indicator [0106] 144—Backside view of (138)
Description
[0107] As Shown in FIGS. 1 through 37B, my invention is comprised of three major entities that encompasses the Fencer Target Training System.
[0108] The first major entity is (40), the main mounted opponent fencer target, shown specifically in FIGS. 1, 2, 10, 11, and 12. It is the main practice/training device of the system. Within its borders it displays an outline of an opponent fencer like (40) with several various smaller targets (52/54/56/58) within and outside its figure's defining lines as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 10, 11, and 12. The basic outline of the fencers are based on the height dimension of an average American male, female, and pre-teenager boy in fencing attire holding a sports sword, such as an epee, foil, or sabre, in the right or left hand and in the slightly crouched on-guard position as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 10, 11, 12, and 21 through 37B. The outlines of the larger targets are covering from top of fencing mask to just below the forward knee, which allows it to remain true to a 1:1 scale and still be displayed within a two (2) by four (4) feet surface as shown in FIG. 1. It is superimposed using heavy-duty sewing thread stitched unto high-quality coated nylon fabric (66) that is wrapped over and secured with adhesive/staples around a correspondingly sized dense foam cushion material (68-72) attached to a rigid backboard (74) as shown in FIG. 3. The entire contraption is mounted using hook and loop type strips that are attached with adhesive to the back of (80) as shown in FIG. 4 and a vertical mounting surface, such as a wall, at the chosen place of utilization. The smaller shaped targets (52/54/56/58) within the larger fencer outline are placed in such a manner to allow user(s) to focus and practice on several key specific target areas as they relate to making hits in a fencing bout with a real opponent. The shapes consist of triangles (54), diamonds (52), and trapezoids (56) approximately three (3) inches in width and/or height with an approximately one (1) inch circle inside each of them. The one (1) inch circle is separately attached with adhesive and sewn directly unto the fabric. During practice, training, coaching, and recreational usage the user/fencer(s) can choose/call out a shape and/or color to hit thus providing variation in hit areas and response conditioning simulating bout fencing. The triangles (54), diamonds (52), and trapezoids (56) are placed inside (40) and the other FTTS targets in such a manner that they simulate primary and/or increasingly harder and/or difficult to hit target areas based on an opponent fencer's defensive TTPs. They are also oriented in such a fashion that they get smaller away from user's blade/tip attack angle to simulate standard fencing uniforms' tendency to deflect sword tips when not correctly hit square on with the appropriate pressure thereby resulting in a miss. As shown in FIG. 2, the triangles (54) are placed along the right-handed target's left side of body in such a manner that corresponds with the base of the shape located were a hit would be more likely to register and the top of it where a sword tip is more likely to deflect. The trapezoids (56) are placed along the right-handed target's right side of body with shapes oriented so they get smaller away from the center line indicated by the dashed line inside the fencer outline as shown in FIG. 2. The fencer outlined mask and forearms have the diamond shaped targets (52) displayed, also with the approximately one (1) inch colored dot (50) within it, to simulate that hits are prone to deflect in four cardinal directions on small or angled surfaces. Additionally, there is a bulls-eye style target (58) consisting of two concentric circles and two lines forming a crosshair centering on an approximately one (1) inch colored bullseye at its center. This allows the user/fencer(s) to observe, analyze, and evaluate specific hit accuracy based on sword tip placement in relation center of bulls-eye target (58) after an engagement and correlated to used TTP and/or footwork.
[0109] The second major entity is (42), the supporting mounted opponent fencer interaction/reaction contraption, shown in FIGS. 1, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, and 12. The contraption is compromised of the various parts shown in FIG. 5, which can be used in different standalone or complementing configurations as shown in FIGS. 10-12. It is the major support practice/training device complimenting (40). The main function of (42) is three-fold: First, it has various attachments (90/92/94/114) together with approximately two times 36-inch vertical tubes (96) acting as an opponent's weapon, blade, and various simulated weapon positions and movement providing the user/fencer(s) the ability to practice/train interacting/reacting to them with various TTPs. Second, it also serves as targets for Epee fencers who can hit (90/92/94) and (98) simulating and opponent's weapon hand and forward foot respectively. Additionally, it simulates an opponent's domination of the space to his or her front wherein the user/fencer(s) must engage to score a hit and win through offensive and/or defensive actions combined with the appropriate footwork. The use of (42) in conjunction with (40) enhances the later and makes the FTTS a system that simulates the depth, width, height, interaction, and complexity of a bout. The user/fencer(s) can configure (42) in various ways depending on desired type of practice/training. The use of (90) attached only to the suspended upper tube (96) allows the user/fencer(s) to simulate an opponent with a small static or moving target and a weapon blade in the high sector (above opponent fencer's waistline) that can be engaged/disengaged as desired, specifically by going under (90) or by taking-the-blade to score a hit on (40). Similarly, the use of (92) attached to the suspended upper and/or lower tubes (96) allows the user/fencer(s) to simulate an opponent with a small static or moving target and a weapon blade in the high and/or low sector (above and below an opponent fencer's waistline respectively) that can be engaged/disengaged as desired, specifically by going under or around (92) or by taking-the-blade to score a hit. Additionally, the use of (94) attached to the suspended upper and/or lower tubes (96) allows the user/fencer(s) to simulate opponent with a small static or moving target with a weapon blade in the high and/or low sector (above and below an opponent fencer's waistline respectively) that can be engaged/disengaged as desired, specifically by going under or around (94) or by taking-the-blade (96) to score a hit. The heavier weight of approximately 2 lbs. of (94) means it moves less when it or the tubes (96) are engaged directly simulating an opponent's increased resistance through blade pressure, resistance, movement, and/or reactions. The use of (94) attached at various heights of choice to (96) and suspended from (84) or (102) allows the user/fencer(s) to simulate an opponent's guard/blade/tip of weapon in a forward position of (40) that can be engaged/disengaged as desired, specifically by going around it to score a hit. Also, (114) using (96/100) to attach it to (102), can be engaged by the user/fencer(s) providing a larger three-dimensional target and small shaped targets superimposed on its cover. This allows user/fencer(s) to practice/train hitting curved targets on (114) with angulation of the weapon/blade/tip and specifically allows sabre fencers to use slashing attacks that are less practical on the relative flat target of (40). Finally, (42) can be used by itself or in conjunction with (40) and/or (44). Note: That (84) provides approximately 16″ of horizontal distance from vertical hanging point hole to vertical mounting surface to approximate the distance of an average male's length from elbow to hand gripping the weapon. Likewise, (102) should be mounted in the ceiling approximately 16″ from the vertical surface where (40) is mounted. (88) is pulled and secured to (96) so that (42) and attachments (90/92/94) are at the desired user height to accommodate practice and training.
[0110] The third major entity is (44), the strip (or piste)/footwork measuring tape, shown in FIGS. 1 and 13 through 18. The contraption is compromised of the various parts shown in FIG. 13, which can be used in different complementing configurations as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. It is a support practice/training device complimenting (40) and/or (42) but can also be used by itself. The main function of (44) is two-fold: First, it measures two meters from the first anchor (138) normally placed at the base of (40) to the second anchor (138) placed fully straight out at a perpendicular angle to (40) as seen in FIG. 1 which simulates the length of the space between the two opposing on-guard lines where fencers start a bout. This allows user/fencer(s) to practice/train within the regulation distance and zones along (142) where most initial engagements between fencers in a bout occur. It also allows user/fencer(s) to gauge distances from various positions along (44) when engaging (40) and (42). Second, the distance markers (130) attached on top of (134) allows user/fencer(s) to place/move personal and opponent benchmarks along (134) as desired but normally to indicate and as labeled: Stop-hit, advance-hit, lunge-hit, advance-advance-hit, advance-lunge-hit, or some other significant move before, after, or in-between engagements with (40) and/or (42).
[0111] The entire FTTS takes up minimal space and can be installed in many locations such as a home, a sports club, or other venue. It can also be removed and stored until needed. Common sense dictates that the already installed wall or ceiling attachment points for (40) and (42) remain in place if the FITS is going to be used again at the same location.
Operation
[0112] My invention is a complete Fencing Target Training System (FITS) for club, home, or other place of sport or recreational usage. It is comprised of the three major components: A main mounted opponent fencer target (40); a supporting mounted opponent fencer interaction/reaction contraption (42); and a strip (or piste)/footwork measuring tape (44) as shown in FIG. 1. They can be installed in relation to each other or by themselves at the user's discretion. Once installed the user/fencer(s) can conduct almost unlimited types of training and practice using fencing weapons as relates to the sport of fencing or recreational usage. The user/fencer(s) can use (40) and (42) separately or combined while relating movements to (44). As described above in the advantages of the FITS, the user/fencer(s) can engage (40) with a qualified sport's fencing weapon to gain numerous benefits through repeated usage over time in preparation for upcoming bouts and/or competitive events. (42) can also be engaged separately in numerous ways with the user interacting or reacting to it based on its various configurations, as shown by some examples in FIGS. 10, 11, 12, while choosing to further engage and hit (42) or not. The placement of (44) in relation to (40) and (42) allows the user to adjust position/distances based on national/international fencing regulation prescribed strip/piste dimensions in regard to the on-guard and center lines. (44) also provides user with movable distinct markers on/along (134) to indicate users' various positions in relation to (40) and (42) for various hitting distances and/or to indicate user's individual starting positions for advance, lunge, and advance/lunge, and advance/advance/lunge/other combinations for movement and engagements with (40) and (42). (42) can be induced with movement by the user/fencer resulting in a moving target and/or simulated blade laterally across (40)'s front with which the user/fencer(s) can apply TTPs to negotiate and engage as deemed appropriately for a successful hit. The various attachments of (42) can also be made to swing back and forth perpendicular to (40) and the user/fencer simulating attack/retreats by an opponent represented by (40) along a strip/piste (134). This allows user/fencer(s) to act/react correspondingly to stop a simulated attack with a counterattack or other engagement. (42) can also be angled inward or outward by placing (98) back or forward in relation to its neutral hanging position and (40) thereby angling upper and lower tubes (96) simulating an opponent's various weapon/blade/positions as they pertain to offensive/defensive positions/actions. Furthermore, (98) can be placed to the front left or right of (24)'s centerline thereby introducing lateral angling to vertical tubes (96) of (42) to simulate opponent's sword covering various defensive lines high and low and to protect the inside or outside from the user/fencer(s)'s attacks. Again, these many varied configurations allow the user/fencer(s) to practice/train many different TTPs as they pertain to fencing. Overall, the FTTS allows the user/fencer(s) to simulate fencing as a stand-alone practice/training option to improve physical and mental skills required in the sport of fencing. It can also be a multiple-user system for several users at once taking turns to hit it based on time/callouts/hits/shapes/other or for coaching between a coach and student.
Alternative Embodiments
[0113] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes, and modifications may be made in the embodiments illustrated and described, without departing from the spirit and scope of the FTTS invention. Thus, the invention is not to be limited to the particular forms herein shown and described insofar as indicated by the scope of the above described invention.
[0114] Therefore, many other variations on the invention are possible. For example, the overall dimensions of (40), (42), and (44) can be changed and specifically the fencer/target outline (48) displayed on said invention (40) can be an alternately be presented as a man/woman/boy/girl/other of various physical dimensions, left or right-handed, represented in various positions, wearing various garments, using various weapons or no weapon, and/or accommodating other modifications. Some examples are given in FIGS. 19 through 37B.
[0115] Also, the user can also decide on installation and placement of the FTTS to fit individual or multiple user's intended usage, such as installation height of (40) and (42), and (42)'s distance from (40), if mounted on the ceiling. (44) can be temporarily placed of flat surface or permanently attached to it by various means such as glue, nails, staples, tape, and so on.
[0116] Also, the general fencer target profile/outline (48), the smaller specific target shapes (52/54/56/58), and other presented objects on the overall construct can be printed, painted, drawn, sketched, sewn, glued, dye sublimation, photo or laser edged, engraved, a combination of these, or in some other fashion rendered unto it. They can also be presented using various number, letter, or figures.
[0117] Also, the mounting of (40) and (42), and placement of (44) can use various forms and materials. For example, (40) can be installed with Velcro, glue, nails, screws, or various forms of mounting brackets. (42) can be attached to a mount in the ceiling or on a vertical surface, such as a wall. (44) can be placed on a flat surface perpendicular to (40) and left or right of user's approach towards/away from (40).
[0118] Also, the part materials described for the FTTS can be replaced with other types, such as using a non-metallic string/rope instead of a metal type wire/cable suspending (42) from its mount. The hollow metal tubes used in (42) can be of another material or replaced entirely with solid rods that have attachment points to hang various components of (42). The attachment points between parts of (42) can also be exchanged for other types, such as using a keyring type instead of a carabiner. Or the fabric used for covering (40) might be changed to another type of material, such as ballistic rated ones, that can sustain being hit repeatedly by a fencing weapon for some time before eventually having to be exchanged.
[0119] Also, the FTTS can be made and presented using various and/or different shapes, colors, patterns, textures, positioning, orientation, numbers, letters, and symbols than the ones described above but still imitate and convey the same scope of the invention.
