Adjustable weapon sighting device system and control method

Abstract

A weapon sight system includes a weapon sight having a body with an optical element configured to superimpose a reticle visible through the optical element. The weapon sight includes a controller in electronic communication with a light source and configured to control the light source. The light source may include LEDs for generating reticle images on the optical element under a variety of different brightness conditions. The light source may include an LED array for generating a plurality of different reticle images on the optical element. The weapon sight includes a Hall effect sensor in electronic communication with the controller to adjust a user-selectable setting, the user-selectable setting including a reticle brightness or a reticle image. The weapon sight system includes a magnetic input device for providing input to the Hall effect sensor of the weapon sight.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 373,479, filed on August 25, 2022, the disclosure of which is considered a part of this application and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to imagers and optics for weapon systems, and more particularly, to adjustable systems for use with or integrated with reflective or holographic optical sights such as on a weapon or weapon system. Background Art

[0004] Firearms and other handheld weapons, such as bows, are often provided with optical sights that provide an aiming reticle within the user's field of view to aid in aiming the weapon. Conventional sporting / combat optical sights often use reflective or holographic optics that superimpose the appearance of a reticle in the field of view when viewed through a glass optical window. The image of the reticle may be illuminated by a laser diode or other light emitting device, and is arranged to appear aligned parallel to and spaced a relatively short vertical distance from the barrel or aiming axis of the firearm on which the sight is mounted.

[0005] Conventional weapon sight systems include multiple user-selectable adjustments, such as selecting the appearance of the reticle image. Known reticle patterns include center points, crosshairs, circles, columns, and combinations thereof. Other user-selectable adjustments may include brightness values. Conventional weapon sights may include static brightness adjustments, or automatic dimming adjustments that react to ambient lighting conditions. Still other user-selectable adjustments may include reticle color. Conventional weapon sights that use reflective or holographic reticles may use red light, green light, or other colors to illuminate the reticle image.

[0006] Facilitating user input to cycle or toggle user selectable adjustments in conventional systems requires the inclusion of buttons, switches, levers, or other controls that require the smallest size reasonably achievable, additional components, more moving parts, and additional perforations through the housing wall that may allow moisture or debris to enter the sight. The accessibility of controls located on the exterior of the weapon sight also presents an opportunity for unintentional interaction with the controls. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a weapon sight and method of operating a weapon sight that provides user input to cycle or toggle user selectable adjustments that overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art. Summary of the invention

[0007] The following sections provide a general description and are not intended to be a comprehensive disclosure of the full scope of all features in various combinations. In a first aspect, a weapon sight includes a body, a controller enclosed in the body, and a power supply electronically communicating with the controller and enclosed in the body. The weapon sight includes a light source that is electronically in communication with the controller and controlled by the controller, and the light source is disposed in the body and is operable to generate a reticle image. The weapon sight includes a frame extending from the body and an optical element in the frame. The optical element is arranged to visually display the reticle image. The weapon sight includes a Hall effect sensor that is electronically in communication with the controller. The Hall effect sensor is arranged to generate an input signal in response to a magnet being disposed proximate to the Hall effect sensor. The controller is operable to adjust a user-selectable setting associated with the reticle image in response to receiving an input signal generated by the Hall effect sensor.

[0008] The weapon sight may also include an ambient light sensor in electronic communication with the controller. The ambient light sensor is arranged to generate a brightness signal indicative of ambient light conditions. The controller is arranged to control the brightness of the light source based on the signal generated by the ambient light sensor. The controller may include a memory device storing a plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles; the controller is operable to adjust between the plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles based on an input signal; and wherein the reticle image is based on a combination of one of the user-selectable brightness profiles and the brightness signal. The plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles may include a first brightness profile for use in natural light, a second brightness profile for use indoors, and a third brightness profile for use in low light conditions.

[0009] The weapon sight may include user selectable settings including reticle designs. The controller may include a memory device storing a plurality of user selectable reticle designs. The user selectable reticle designs may include dots, starbursts, crosshairs with a center dot, circles with a center dot, stadia lines, and combinations thereof.

[0010] In a weapon sight, the Hall effect sensor may be disposed adjacent to an inner surface of a side wall of the body. The Hall effect sensor may be disposed on a side of the frame.

[0011] In a second aspect, a weapon sight system includes a weapon sight. The weapon sight includes a body, a controller enclosed in the body, and a light source enclosed in the body. The light source is in electronic communication with the controller. The controller is arranged to control the light source to generate a reticle image. The weapon sight includes a Hall effect sensor disposed in the weapon sight and in electronic communication with the controller. The weapon sight includes a recess formed on the body proximate the Hall effect sensor.

[0012] The weapon sight system also includes a magnetic input tool. The magnetic input tool includes a tip shaped to correspond to the recess. The tip includes a magnet. The Hall effect sensor is arranged to generate an input signal when the tip of the magnetic input tool is received in the recess. The controller is operable to adjust a user-selectable setting associated with the reticle image in response to receiving the input signal generated by the Hall effect sensor.

[0013] The weapon sight system may include an ambient light sensor in electronic communication with the controller. The ambient light sensor may be arranged to generate a brightness signal representative of ambient light conditions. The controller may be arranged to control the brightness of the light source based on the signal generated by the ambient light sensor.

[0014] In the weapon sight system, the controller may include a memory device storing a plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles. The controller may be operable to adjust between the plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles based on an input signal. The reticle image may be based on a combination of one of the user-selectable brightness profiles and the brightness signal.

[0015] The user-selectable settings of the weapon sight may include reticle designs. The controller may include a memory device storing a plurality of user-selectable reticle designs. The plurality of user-selectable reticle designs may include dots, starbursts, crosshairs with a center dot, circles with a center dot, stadia lines, and combinations thereof.

[0016] In a weapon sight system, the magnetic input tool may include a stylus. The tip of the stylus may be a first tip, and the magnet may be a first magnet in a first orientation. The stylus may include a second tip, wherein the second tip may include a second magnet in a second orientation different from the first orientation.

[0017] In a weapon sight system, the weapon sight may include a second Hall effect sensor. The weapon sight may also include a second recess in the wall of the body proximate the second Hall effect sensor. The second end of the stylus may be shaped to correspond to the second recess. The second Hall effect sensor may be arranged to generate a second input signal when the second end of the magnetic input tool is received in the second recess. The controller may be operable to adjust a user-selectable setting associated with the reticle image in response to receiving a second input signal generated by the second Hall effect sensor that is different from the first input signal.

[0018] In a third aspect, a method for controlling a weapon sight having a Hall effect sensor is provided. The method includes generating, by a controller in electronic communication with a light source, a first reticle image at an optical element. The first reticle image has a first reticle design, a first brightness profile, a first azimuth setting, and a second elevation setting. The method includes receiving, by the controller, an input signal generated by the Hall effect sensor. The input signal represents a user input of presenting a magnet proximate to the Hall effect sensor. The method includes adjusting, by the controller, a user selectable setting in response to receiving the input signal generated by the Hall effect sensor. The user selectable setting is one of: a brightness profile setting, a reticle design setting, an azimuth adjustment setting, an elevation adjustment setting, or a combination thereof. The method includes generating, by the controller, a second reticle image that differs from the first reticle image by the adjusted user selectable setting.

[0019] The method may also include receiving, by the controller, a mode signal to switch an adjustment mode for adjusting a user-selectable setting. The input signal may be based on a first swipe type, and the mode signal may be based on a second swipe type. The Hall effect sensor may be a first Hall effect sensor for generating the input signal, and the weapon sight may include a second Hall effect sensor for generating the mode signal. The method may also include generating, with the controller, an input confirmation. The input confirmation may include one of a visual alarm, an audible alarm, and a combination of a visual alarm and an audible alarm.

[0020] Each of the above independent aspects of the present disclosure and those aspects described in the detailed description below may include any one of the features, options and possibilities set forth in the present disclosure and the drawings (including those under other independent aspects), and may also include any combination of any one of the features, options and possibilities set forth in the present disclosure and the drawings.

[0021] The details of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other aspects, advantages, objects and features will become apparent after reading the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 is a first side perspective view of a weapon sight according to the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 2 is a second side perspective view of a weapon sight according to the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 3 is a top perspective view of a weapon sight according to the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 4 is a bottom perspective view of a weapon sight according to the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 5 is a chart showing exemplary user-selectable brightness profiles for use in the auto-dimming function.

[0027] 6A to 6H It is a reticle design at high and low display intensities.

[0028] Figure 7 is a first exemplary magnetic input tool as a stylus for use with the weapon sight of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 8 A second exemplary magnetic input tool for use with the weapon sight of the present disclosure is a key fob.

[0030] Fig. 9 is a third exemplary magnetic input tool as a glove for use with the weapon sight of the present disclosure.

[0031] Fig.10 is a flow chart of a method of controlling a weapon sight having a Hall effect sensor according to the present invention.

[0032] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Referring now to the drawings and the illustrative examples depicted therein, Figures 1 to 4 1 shows a weapon sight 10, which can be used for sports or combat weapons that require aiming by an operator, such as handheld weapons that can fire projectiles. When used with reference to a weapon, the term "handheld" includes, for example, a rifle, a shotgun, a pistol, a finger pistol, a bow, or any other weapon that is typically used in a handheld manner. The weapon (not shown) includes a barrel or other projectile containing mechanism that defines a projectile axis. In order to help aim the projectile axis at a target, the weapon may include a fixed sight, such as an iron sight, with a mark that is optically aligned with the projectile axis of the weapon. Moreover, the weapon may include a rail, such as a Weaver or Picatinny rail, which extends at least partially along the upper surface of the barrel for mounting optical sights and equipment and other weapon accessories. The rail may also extend along the upper surface of a receiver, frame, handle, or other portion of the weapon. Alternatively, a receiver, frame, rail, or other portion of the weapon may include a flat top surface having one or more threaded holes for receiving corresponding threaded fasteners (such as, for example, a delta point mounting base (footprint)).

[0034] like Figure 1 The weapon sight 10 shown is a device that superimposes markings or reticle designs (such as Figures 6A-6H1 and 1 . The weapon sight 10 is an optical sight for assisting in aiming a weapon. The weapon sight 10 includes a base 12 configured to be mounted to a weapon, such as using a mounting mechanism attached to a rail, or via a threaded fastener 14. Various types of mounting mechanisms may be employed depending on the type of weapon and rail system. The weapon sight 10 also includes a body 16 that houses a light source 18, a power source 20, a controller 38, and an optical element 24, as well as any other optical or electronic components of the weapon sight 10. The body 16 may be sealed relative to the external environment to protect the components enclosed within the body 16.

[0035] The optical element 24 has a front surface 25 facing the target and a rear surface 27 viewed by the user during operation. Both the front surface 25 and the rear surface 27 may be non-spherical surfaces, or may be spherical surfaces. The optical element 24 is mounted in a generally vertical orientation relative to the operational orientation of the weapon, held in place by a frame 26. In the illustrated weapon sight 10, the body 16 is integrally formed with the frame 26, wherein the frame extends substantially vertically from the body 16. The body 16 and the frame 26 may be formed of a plastic material, a metal material, or any other suitable material formed by conventional manufacturing methods to have sufficient strength and dimensional stability to maintain the weapon sight 10 with consistent calibration during operation, which may require significant impact and vibration forces.

[0036] The light source 18 is arranged in the housing body 16 to emit light incident on the optical element 24, which includes a reflective surface or material to reflect the illumination to be visible to the user. In an alternative embodiment, the optical element includes a hologram to generate an image reflection. The reflected illumination creates an aiming reticle image for the user to align with the objective target observed through the optical element 24. The optical element 24 displays the reticle image via reflection optics from the light source 18. The light source 18 can be a light emitting diode (LED) and can be arranged to emit light directed to the optical element 24 directly or through one or more additional optical elements (such as a rear optical element 28 disposed between the light source 18 and the optical element 24). For example, the rear optical element 28 can be assembled to the body 16 to encapsulate and protect the light source 18. In an example embodiment, the light source 18 and the rear optical element 28 can be mechanically integrated and fixed to the body 16 to provide a sealed housing of the body 16. In other alternatives, a plurality of rear optical elements 28 are provided to redirect, focus or collimate the emitted light inside the body 16 before exiting through the planar lens and reaching the optical element 24 .

[0037] The light source 18 or the rear optical element 28 or a combination thereof may be adjustable relative to the optical element 24. In the illustrated weapon sight 10, the light source 18 is supported on an adjustable carrier (not shown). The azimuth adjustment screw 30 ( Figure 2 The carrier is adjusted by rotating the azimuth adjustment screw 32 to adjust the placement of the reticle image on the optical element 24 laterally and by rotating the elevation adjustment screw 32 to adjust the placement of the reticle image on the optical element 24 vertically. The azimuth adjustment and elevation adjustment allow the weapon sight 10 to be specifically calibrated for different weapons or different users by adjusting the position of the sight image within the optical element 24. Once calibrated, the adjustments can be locked in place via locking screws 34, 36.

[0038] The light source 18 is in electronic communication with and controlled by a controller 38. The controller 38 is powered by the power source 20, disposed within the body 16 below the battery cover 21, and is in electronic communication with the controller 38. The controller 38 includes a processor, such as a microprocessor 40, and a memory device 42 storing instructions for execution by the processor. The controller 38 may include an LED driver electronics 43 in communication with the microprocessor 40. The microprocessor 40 generates a signal received by the LED driver electronics 43 according to the stored instructions of the memory device 42. The controller 38 may communicate with other electronic components, such as a motor controller, or may include other electronic components, wherein the elevation adjustment, the azimuth adjustment, or both adjustments are motor controlled. The controller 38 may communicate with or may include a wireless communication device 44, such as a Bluetooth device, a near field communication (NFC) device, a radio frequency identification (RFID) device, or the like.

[0039] As described above, the light source 18 may include an LED, or alternatively may include an array of multiple LEDs or other light emitting devices. The signal generated by the microprocessor 40 may cause the LED driver electronics 43 to energize one or more LEDs of the light source 18 at a predetermined brightness. The predetermined brightness may be associated with a variable power level provided to the light source 18 by the LED driver electronics 43. An example weapon sight system with automatic brightness adjustment is provided in U.S. Patent No. 5,483,362, entitled "Compact Holographic Sight," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0040] The controller 38 may include or may be in electronic communication with an ambient light sensor, photodetector, or other input device to determine light conditions in the surrounding environment, and in particular, ambient light conditions from the direction of the target. The ambient light sensor 39 may be disposed within the body 16, such as behind the rear optical element 28. The memory device 42 may store instructions for modulating brightness in response to ambient light conditions. The brightness adjustment may be characterized as a profile defining brightness values ​​for respective ambient light values.

[0041] The weapon sight 10 may store a plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles associated with different light conditions. Figure 5An exemplary illustration of a plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles is provided in . For example, a first brightness profile P1 may be intended for use outdoors in natural daylight; and a second brightness profile P2 may be intended for use indoors. A third brightness profile P3 may be provided for use in low-light or nighttime operations. The brightness profiles associate different levels of power with light sources that generate reticle images at different levels of ambient light in the environment. In lower light environments, it may be desirable to have a lower light output from the light source when generating the reticle image, and in brighter environments, it may be desirable to have a higher light output from the light source. Different brightness profiles may be preferred for different shooting environments (such as those intended for self-defense use, sports settings, or competition settings). Depending on the brightness profiles P1, P2, P3 selected, each of the different brightness profiles may be defined as having a different brightness value for a given ambient light condition value indicated by a signal generated by the ambient light sensor 39 and processed by the controller 38.

[0042] Although Figure 5 The exemplary graphs in show stepped offsets between different brightness profiles, but this is not intended to be limiting, and other relationships between brightness profiles are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in a brightness profile intended for low light or nighttime operation, experiencing high ambient light conditions may require a greater output from the light source, such that brightness profile P3 may have a steeper slope relative to other brightness profiles. Similarly, for brightness profile P1 intended for a high light environment (such as outdoor daytime operation), there may be little difference between the output levels at high and low ambient light levels, such that the slope of the brightness profile is shallower relative to the other brightness profiles.

[0043] Light source 18 may include an array of LEDs to generate different reticle designs. 6A to 6H 1 shows the reticle design at different brightness intensities. The reticle image can be generated by a dedicated LED in the LED array. For example, light source 18 may include a LED for generating Fig. 6A The first LED of the reticle design shown is used to generate Figure 6C In other alternatives, light source 18 may include a single LED source and a mask array (such as a mask wheel) disposed between light source 18 and optical element 24 for limiting the light reaching optical element 24 that generates the reticle design. Example reticle designs include dots ( FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B ); Starburst( FIG. 6C to FIG. 6D );Crosshair with center dot ( FIG. 6E to FIG. 6F ); and a circle with a center point ( FIG. 6G to FIG. 6H By changing the brightness of light source 18, it is possible to emit light at a higher intensity (e.g. Fig. 6A ) or lower intensity (e.g. Figure 6B ) generates a reticle design. The reticle image may be presented at optical element 24 in red or green light, and light source 18 may include separate LED elements for each reticle design in each color.

[0044] In alternative embodiments, the controller 38 may facilitate the azimuth adjustment or the elevation adjustment or both. The weapon sight 10 may include one or more servomotors or other actuators in electronic communication with and controlled by the controller 38 for adjusting the position of the light source 18 or the rear optical element 28. An example weapon sight including a motor for adjusting the position of the sight image is provided in U.S. Patent No. 7,225,578 B2, entitled "Sight with Fixed Light Emitting Diode (LED) Array and Rotatable Collimator," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0045] The weapon sight 10 includes one or more Hall effect sensors 50 in electronic communication with the controller 38 for providing user input to the controller 38. The Hall effect sensors 50 are used to detect the presence and magnitude of a magnetic field. Placing the Hall effect sensors 50 within the body 16 allows the user to provide input to the controller 38 without requiring buttons or other inputs that include moving parts and openings through the walls or surfaces of the body 16. Moreover, the lack of external physical buttons avoids the possibility of accidental or unintentional input. For example, when the weapon sight 10 is used with a compact weapon such as a semi-automatic pistol, the weapon sight 10 can be mounted on the slide mechanism, close to the position where the slide is clamped when it is pulled back to load the weapon. Having buttons on the outside of the weapon sight 10 increases the risk of unintentional activation of the buttons.

[0046] Presenting a magnet within range of the Hall effect sensor 50 causes the sensor 50 to generate a signal indicative of the polarity and strength of the magnetic field. The controller 38 may be programmed to react to the signal indicative of the presence, polarity, magnitude, or rate of change of the magnetic field by adjusting one or more of the user-selectable features or operations of the weapon sight, including cycling through available brightness profiles, reticle image styles or colors, or adjusting the position of the reticle image on the optical element 24. In one example, the controller 38 may be programmed to selectively display different reticle elements, such as a center dot, a circular element, stadia markings, etc., based on user input received via the Hall effect sensor 50. 6A to 6HVarious reticle elements are shown in , which are intended to be illustrative embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. In another example, the controller 38 can be programmed to select a different brightness curve, a brightness curve calibration offset, or a manual brightness value that disables the automatic dimming function based on user input. The controller 38 can be programmed to select a different automatic shutoff delay duration based on user input.

[0047] In an alternative, or in combination with the foregoing, the controller 38 may be programmed to display additional information that is not normally displayed during operation in response to a signal from the sensor 50 in response to a user input. For example, the controller 38 may cause the battery status to be determined and displayed. The multi-segment LED 41 may be illuminated in response to a user input detected by the sensor 50, wherein a portion of the segment is illuminated to reflect the relative charge state of the power source 20. The multi-segment LED 41 may be directly observable at a location on the body 16. Alternatively, the multi-segment LED 41 may be arranged to project light onto the optical element 24, observable by the user when viewed through the sight. The battery charge status may be displayed in different ways, such as by flashing the reticle, or momentarily adjusting the reticle brightness to indicate the battery charge level. In one example, the reticle may flash once for a low battery status, twice for a medium battery charge, and three times for a high battery charge. In another example, the reticle may be momentarily illuminated in a high, medium, or low brightness state to indicate a high, medium, or low battery charge status. In other examples, the battery charge status may be represented in four, five, or another number of levels.

[0048] Other functions of the weapon sight 10 may be associated with inputs received via the Hall effect sensor 50. The user input may toggle on / off operation, emergency over-temperature shutdown operation, or may be used to select among a series of temperature thresholds stored in the memory device 42. The user input may be used to select among pre-programmed temperature compensated offset values ​​for the automatic dimming brightness curve for the reticle illumination. The controller 38 may include a temperature sensor in electronic communication with the microprocessor 40 for providing a value input representing the ambient temperature, the operating temperature of the weapon sight 10 within the body 16, the operating temperature of the microprocessor 40, or other temperature information.

[0049] The controller 38 may be configured to switch the weapon sight 10 to a different operating mode upon receiving input via the Hall effect sensor. The controller 38 may be configured to activate an emergency signal mode in which the reticle flashes with a timed series of short flash durations and long flash durations, thereby signaling an SOS with light pulses. The controller 38 may be configured to activate a self-destruct feature whereby power is discharged through the electronics in a manner that damages or destroys the memory device 42 or the microprocessor 40, or some other destructive operation. The controller 38 may include a wireless communication device 44 to obtain data connectivity (such as via Bluetooth) for wirelessly receiving programming updates to the information stored on the memory device 42, for adding or changing different brightness values ​​or other settings. The controller 38 may be configured to switch the wireless connectivity function of the weapon sight 10, such as by setting the device to a pairing mode upon receiving user input via the Hall effect sensor.

[0050] Figures 1 to 4 Possible locations for positioning one or more Hall effect sensors 50 are shown. Different combinations of the alternatives shown are possible within the scope of the present disclosure, and still further alternatives are also contemplated. Figure 1 , the first sensor 50 is disposed adjacent to the inner surface of the side wall of the weapon sight 10. In an alternative, the weapon sight 10 may include a single sensor 50. In an embodiment with a single sensor 50, the controller 38 may be programmed to cycle between available user-selectable options upon receiving a signal from the sensor 50 indicating the presence of a magnet within the range of the sensor 50. The controller 38 may respond to the sensor signal regardless of the polarity of the magnet presented within the range of the sensor 50. In the case where the controller 38 is arranged to control the brightness profile setting based on the sensor input, the controller 38 may index the valid brightness profiles between the available profiles incrementally and continuously upon each signal indicating the presence of a magnetic input sensed by the sensor 50. The controller 38 may be programmed to provide a feedback response upon successful input at the sensor 50, such as by flashing the reticle image a number of times associated with the brightness profile index. In other alternatives, the feedback response may include an audible alarm or a visual alarm not associated with the reticle image, such as via an LED indicator visible in the optical element 24 or disposed elsewhere on the body 16.

[0051] like Figure 1The single sensor 50 shown can be arranged to generate different signals depending on whether a magnet is presented proximate to the sensor 50 with a positive polarity or a negative polarity. Thus, the controller 38 can be programmed to provide a first response to a magnetic field of a first polarity, and to provide a different second response to a magnetic field of a second polarity. For example, the controller 38 can increment through a series of brightness profiles when presented with a magnetic field of a first polarity, and conversely decrement through a series of brightness profiles when presented with a magnetic field of a second polarity.

[0052] Figure 2 A second alternative is shown with two sensors 51, 52 disposed on the sides of the body 16. As a further alternative for sensor placement, one or more sensors 55 may be provided on one or both sides of the frame 26. The controller 38 may be programmed to respond differently to the two sensors, for example, with one sensor 51 associated with a brightness profile selection and the second sensor 52 associated with a reticle design selection. In this example, the two sensors 51, 52 may cycle through the available options in one sequential direction in the presence of a first polarity and cycle through the available options in the opposite direction in the presence of a second polarity.

[0053] In another alternative, both sensors 51, 52 may be selectively associated with a single feature (either brightness or reticle design). In this example, one sensor 51 responds to a first polarity, and a second sensor 52 responds to a second polarity. The controller 38 may be programmed to read sensor signals as input only based on a minimum signal strength threshold associated with a particular polarity presented in close proximity to one or the other sensor 51, 52. The sensors 51, 52 may be spaced apart along the side of the body 16, and may include magnetic shielding material disposed between the sensors 51, 52 to minimize the occurrence of unintentional input.

[0054] In another alternative, the weapon sight 10 may include a first sensor 50 on a first side of the body 16 and two additional sensors 51, 52 on a second side of the body 16 opposite the first side. The controller 38 may be programmed to take input from both sensors 51, 52 to change the value of a user-selectable feature, and take input from the first sensor 50 to cycle between available user-selectable features. For example, a user may present a magnet near the first sensor 50 to activate a first adjustment mode of a reticle brightness profile, and then present a magnet near the second sensor 51 to cycle through the available brightness profiles in a first sequence. Presenting a magnet near the third sensor 52 to cycle through the available brightness profiles in an opposite second sequence. Presenting a magnet a second time near the first sensor 50 activates a second adjustment mode for reticle design selection. Then, the user may present a magnet near the second sensor 51 and the third sensor 52 to cycle between available reticle designs.

[0055] Figure 3 A further alternative is shown in which Hall Effect sensors 53, 54 are disposed along the top surface of the body 16. As a further alternative, one or more sensors 57 may be disposed on the top surface of the frame 26. Similar to the sensors 51, 52 disposed on the sides of the body 16, the sensors 53, 54 may be associated with the adjustment of user-selectable features in place of or in combination with the other sensors 50, 51, 52. In one example, the sensor 50 on the first side of the body 16 operates to activate an operating mode for adjusting user-selectable features, the sensors 51, 52 allow adjustment of the brightness profile, and the sensors 53, 54 provide adjustment of the reticle design. The sensor 50 may activate an operating mode for adjusting the azimuth or elevation placement of the reticle image. For example, the sensors 51, 52 may be associated with one of the azimuth placement or the elevation placement, and the sensors 53, 54 may be associated with the other of the elevation setting or the azimuth setting. Any single sensor or combination of sensors may be placed in any one or more of the positions described herein, and such placement and combination selections are not intended to be limiting. The controller 38 may be arranged with any of the functionality described herein in association with any one or more of the sensor placements, and such assignment of functionality described herein is not intended to be limiting.

[0056] Figure 4An embodiment of the present disclosure is shown that also includes a recess 56 (such as a pit or depression) formed in the surface of the body 16 aligned with the location of the sensor 51. A second recess 58 is aligned with the location of the second sensor 52. The recesses 56, 58 can provide a tactile indication to the user of where to set the magnet to provide input to the associated sensor 51, 52. In other alternatives, a visual indicator (such as a color, pattern, or symbol) can be provided on the body 16 to indicate the location of the sensor 51, 52. Still other alternatives can include a textured surface portion aligned with the sensor location, such as via surface roughening, stippling, knurling, etc. Other alternatives can combine the elements of the recesses 56, 58 in the body 16 with visual indicators and surface texturing to provide an indication of the sensor location to the user. The recesses 56, 58, visual indicators, or surface textures can be different between the sensor locations 51, 52, and can indicate the correct polarity for the magnetic input to a specific location 51, 52. Although not shown in the figures, position markers such as recesses, textured areas, or visual colors, patterns, or symbols can be associated with any one or more of the sensor placements on the sides or top of the body 16, or on the sides or top of the frame 26.

[0057] A weapon sight system includes the above combination Figures 1 to 4 A weapon sight 10 having a Hall effect sensor and a magnetic input means for providing user input to the weapon sight are described in various alternative embodiments. Figures 7 to 9 An exemplary input device for providing user input to the Hall effect sensors 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 57 is shown. The controller 38 can be programmed to read the input at the Hall effect sensor based on the strength, duration, or polarity of the magnetic field present at the Hall effect sensor. For example, the processor may not read the input of the sensor until the magnetic field strength is above a predefined threshold. The magnetic field strength can only be achieved when the magnetic input tool is placed close enough to the sensor, such as when the magnetic input tool is placed in contact with the body 16 or frame 26 near the sensor location.

[0058] The controller 38 can also be programmed to distinguish different inputs based on the duration of the magnetic field therein. That is, the controller can be arranged to distinguish the input of a short swipe, a medium swipe or a long duration swipe for a magnetic input tool. For example, placing the magnetic input tool near the sensor for a short time can be read as a different input from when the magnetic input tool is placed near the sensor and allowed to stay for a certain time. In an example embodiment, a short swipe can be switched between user-adjustable parameters (such as brightness and reticle selection), and a long swipe can be switched between different values ​​within the parameter, such as switching between low brightness and high brightness, or switching between available reticle shapes. For example, a short swipe can be, for example, when the magnetic input tool is present near the Hall effect sensor for less than about one-tenth to one-half second, and a long swipe can be when the magnetic input tool is present near the Hall effect sensor for longer than one-half to one second. Other suitable time values ​​can be used to distinguish the swipe between short additional time levels, long additional time levels or additional time levels.

[0059] Figure 7 A first exemplary magnetic input tool or device is shown as a stylus 60. The stylus 60 includes a first end tip 62 having a first magnetic field orientation (designated as positive polarity) with a first end size and / or shape, and a second end tip 64 having a second magnetic field orientation (designated as negative polarity) with a second end tip size and / or shape that is different from the size and / or shape of the first end tip 62. The first end tip 62 size and the second end tip size 64 can be selected to correspond to the different sizes of the recesses 56, 58 so that the user can properly orient and position the stylus 60 relative to the weapon sight 10 to provide the desired input. The strength of the field generated by the respective first end tip 62 and the second end tip 64 and the defined signal strength threshold for the associated sensor can correspond so that the controller 38 does not register an input signal unless the first end tip 62 or the second end tip 64 is actually disposed within the corresponding recess for the associated sensor. An alternative design contemplates a single-ended stylus in which the weapon sight 10 has a polarity-agnostic sensor.

[0060] Figure 8A second exemplary magnetic input tool is shown as a key fob 70. The key fob 70 may include one or more magnets 72 proximate an outer surface for placement proximate to the weapon sight 10. The key fob 70 may be arranged to expose a first magnetic polarity along a first side of the key fob 70 and expose an opposite magnetic polarity along an opposite side of the key fob 70. A user may place the key fob 70 proximate to the weapon sight 10 in a first orientation to provide input to a first sensor via a first magnetic polarity, and place the key fob proximate to the weapon sight in an opposite orientation to provide input to a second sensor via an opposite second magnetic polarity. The key fob 70 may include surface markings 74 or indications for indicating to the user which side of the key fob 70 is associated with which magnetic polarity. For example, where a sensor on the weapon sight 10 is indicated with a first color of the first sensor associated with a first magnetic polarity, the key fob 70 may have a first side marked with the same first color associated with the same magnetic polarity. Other visual indicators may be employed, such as symbols, patterns, or textures.

[0061] Fig. 9 A third exemplary magnetic input tool is shown as a glove 80. The glove 80 may have one or more magnets integrated into the structure of the glove 80. In one example, a first magnet 82 is disposed at a finger pad of a first finger with a first polarity orientation, and a second magnet 84 is disposed at a finger pad of a second finger with a second polarity orientation opposite to the first polarity orientation. According to the example shown, a user is able to interact with the weapon sight 10 while wearing the glove 80, as if a button is disposed on the body 16, while a sensor reads one, the other, or both of the magnets 82, 84 through the sensor. In other alternatives, the magnets 86, 88 may be integrated into other locations of the glove 80. The magnets may be arranged in separate pairs with opposite polarities to avoid unintentional input to the weapon sight 10. Although shown as a glove 80, the magnetic input tool may be formed as another wearable item, such as a wristband, a ring, etc.

[0062] A method 100 for controlling a weapon sight having a Hall effect sensor Fig.10, and includes a first step 102: generating, by a controller in electronic communication with a light source, a first reticle image at an optical element, the first reticle image having a first reticle design illuminated at a first brightness value according to a brightness profile. The method 100 includes a second step 104: receiving, by the controller, an input signal generated by a Hall effect sensor indicating a user input as the presence of a magnet proximate to the Hall effect sensor of a weapon sight. The method 100 includes a third step 106: in response to receiving the input signal generated by the Hall effect sensor, adjusting a user selectable setting, wherein the user selectable setting includes one of the following: a brightness setting; a reticle design setting; an azimuth adjustment setting; an elevation adjustment setting; or a combination thereof. The method 100 includes a fourth step 108: generating a second reticle image different from the first reticle image by at least a changed user selectable setting from step 106 in one or more of the brightness setting; the reticle design setting; the azimuth adjustment setting; the elevation adjustment setting; or a combination thereof.

[0063] Method 100 may include the step of receiving a signal for switching an operating mode. For example, the method may include receiving a mode signal from a Hall effect sensor to enter an adjustment mode in which a user-selectable setting may be adjusted. The mode signal from the Hall effect sensor for switching or entering the adjustment mode may reflect a first input type, such as from a first Hall effect sensor or representing a first swipe type, such as a long swipe, and wherein the mode signal is different from the input signal. The method may include receiving a mode signal before receiving an input signal. The mode signal may come from the same first Hall effect sensor, but represent a different swipe type, such as a short swipe for a mode input and a long swipe for an input signal; or the mode signal may come from a second Hall effect sensor that is different from the first Hall effect sensor that receives the input signal. The other operating modes described above may be switched upon receiving an input signal from a particular Hall effect sensor, or upon receiving a particular type of input. For example, switching a self-destruct operating mode may require a long swipe input of greater than about 5 or 10 seconds. This is not intended to be limiting, and other configurations of multiple Hall effect sensors or multiple swipe input types on one or more Hall effect sensors are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0064] The method 100 may include the step of generating an input confirmation. For example, the method may include providing a feedback response by blinking the reticle image in a blinking pattern corresponding to different user-selectable settings available for adjustment or representing parameter values ​​within the user-selectable settings. For example, the method may include blinking the reticle image a number of times associated with a brightness profile index. The method may include providing a feedback response, such as an audible alarm or a visual alarm, such as an LED indicator, that is not associated with the reticle image.

[0065] The articles "one", "an" and "the" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements in the preceding description. The terms "including", "comprising" and "having" are intended to be inclusive, and mean that in addition to the listed elements, additional elements may also be present. Additionally, it should be understood that reference to "one embodiment" or "embodiment" of the present disclosure is not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the features set forth. The numerals, percentages, ratios or other values ​​stated herein are intended to include the value, as well as other values ​​of "about" or "approximately" the stated value, as understood by those of ordinary skill in the art encompassed by the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the stated value should be interpreted as being broad enough to encompass values ​​that are at least close enough to the stated value to perform the desired function or achieve the desired result. The stated value includes at least the expected changes in a suitable manufacturing or production process, and may include values ​​within 5%, within 1%, within 0.1%, or within 0.01% of the stated value.

[0066] Also for the purposes of this disclosure, the terms "about," "approximately," and "substantially" as used herein mean an amount that approaches a stated amount and still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms "about," "approximately," and "substantially" may refer to amounts within less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, and less than 0.01% of a stated amount. Further, it should be understood that any directions or reference frames in the foregoing description are merely relative directions or movements. For example, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," "distal," "proximal," and their derivatives should be read in conjunction with the foregoing description. Figure 1 . However, it should be understood that various alternative orientations may be provided unless expressly specified to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes shown in the drawings and described in this specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Therefore, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting unless expressly stated in the claims.

[0067] Changes and modifications in the specifically described embodiments may be achieved without departing from the principles of the invention, which are intended to be limited only by the scope of the appended claims interpreted in accordance with the principles of patent law. The present disclosure has been described in an illustrative manner, and it should be understood that the terms used are intended to have the nature of descriptive words rather than restrictive properties. In accordance with the above teachings, many modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible, and the present disclosure may be practiced differently than specifically described.

Claims

1. A weapon sight, comprising: main body; a controller enclosed within the body; a power source in electronic communication with the controller and enclosed within the body; a light source in electronic communication with and controlled by the controller, the light source disposed within the body and operable to generate a reticle image; a frame extending from the body; an optical element supported within the frame and arranged to visually display the reticle image; as well as a Hall effect sensor in electronic communication with the controller, the Hall effect sensor being arranged to generate an input signal in response to a magnet disposed proximate the Hall effect sensor; Wherein the controller is operable to adjust a user-selectable setting associated with the reticle image in response to receiving the input signal generated by the Hall effect sensor.

2. The weapon sight of claim 1 further comprising an ambient light sensor in electronic communication with the controller and arranged to generate a brightness signal representative of ambient light conditions, wherein the controller is arranged to control the brightness of the light source based on the brightness signal generated by the ambient light sensor.

3. The weapon sight of claim 2, wherein the controller includes a memory device storing a plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles; the controller is operable to adjust between the plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles based on the input signal; and wherein the reticle image is based on a combination of one of the user-selectable brightness profiles and the brightness signal.

4. The weapon sight of claim 3, wherein the plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles includes a first brightness profile for use in natural light, a second brightness profile for use indoors, and a third brightness profile for use in low-light conditions.

5. The weapon sight of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the user selectable settings include a reticle design.

6. The weapon sight of claim 5, wherein the controller includes a memory device storing a plurality of user-selectable reticle designs, the plurality of user-selectable reticle designs including a dot, a starburst, a crosshair with a center dot, and a circle with a center dot.

7. A weapon sight as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the Hall Effect sensor is disposed adjacent an inner surface of a side wall of the body.

8. The weapon sight of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the Hall Effect sensor is disposed on one side of the frame.

9. A weapon sight system comprising: A weapon sight, the weapon sight comprising main body; a controller enclosed within the body; a light source enclosed within the body and in electronic communication with the controller, the controller being arranged to control the light source to generate a reticle image; as well as a Hall effect sensor disposed within the weapon sight and in electronic communication with the controller; wherein the weapon sight includes a recess formed proximate to the Hall effect sensor; as well as a magnetic input tool, the magnetic input tool comprising a tip shaped to correspond to the recess, the tip comprising a magnet; wherein the Hall effect sensor is arranged to generate an input signal when the tip of the magnetic input tool is received in the recess; and Wherein the controller is operable to adjust a user-selectable setting associated with the reticle image in response to receiving the input signal generated by the Hall effect sensor.

10. The weapon sight system of claim 9, further comprising an ambient light sensor in electronic communication with the controller and arranged to generate a brightness signal representative of ambient light conditions, wherein the controller is arranged to control the brightness of the light source based on the brightness signal generated by the ambient light sensor.

11. The weapon sight system of claim 10, wherein the controller includes a memory device storing a plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles; the controller is operable to adjust between the plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles based on the input signal; and wherein the reticle image is based on a combination of one of the user-selectable brightness profiles and the brightness signal.

12. A weapon sight system as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the user selectable settings include a reticle design.

13. The weapon sight system of claim 12, wherein the controller includes a memory device storing a plurality of user-selectable reticle designs, the plurality of user-selectable reticle designs including a dot, a starburst, a crosshair with a center dot, and a circle with a center dot.

14. The weapon sight system of any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the magnetic input tool comprises a stylus, wherein the tip is a first tip, the magnet is a first magnet in a first orientation, and the input signal is a first input signal, wherein the stylus further comprises a second tip, the second tip comprising a second magnet in a second orientation different from the first orientation.

15. A weapon sight system as described in claim 14, wherein the weapon sight includes a second Hall sensor, the weapon sight also includes a second recess proximate the second Hall effect sensor, the second end is shaped to correspond to the second recess, wherein the second Hall effect sensor is arranged to generate a second input signal when the second end of the magnetic input tool is received in the second recess; and wherein the controller is capable of adjusting the user-selectable setting associated with the reticle image in response to receiving the second input signal generated by the second Hall effect sensor that is different from the first input signal.

16. A method for controlling a weapon sight having a Hall effect sensor, the method comprising: generating, by a controller in electronic communication with the light source, at the optical element a first reticle image having a first reticle design, a first brightness profile, a first azimuth setting, and a second elevation setting; receiving, by the controller, an input signal generated by the Hall effect sensor, the input signal representing a user input of presenting a magnet proximate to the Hall effect sensor; in response to receiving the input signal generated by the Hall effect sensor, adjusting, by the controller, a user-selectable setting, wherein the user-selectable setting is one of: a brightness profile setting, a reticle design setting, an azimuth adjustment setting, an elevation adjustment setting, or a combination thereof; as well as A second reticle image is generated by the controller, the second reticle image differing from the first reticle image by an adjusted user-selectable setting.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising receiving, by the controller, a mode signal to switch an adjustment mode for adjusting the user-selectable setting. The method of claim 17 , wherein the input signal is based on a first swipe type and the mode signal is based on a second swipe type.

19. The method of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the Hall effect sensor is a first Hall effect sensor for generating the input signal; and wherein the weapon sight includes a second Hall effect sensor for generating a mode signal.

20. The method of any one of claims 16 to 19, further comprising generating, with the controller, an input confirmation, wherein the input confirmation comprises one of a visual alarm, an audible alarm, and a combination of a visual alarm and an audible alarm.

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