Weapon system and weapon display device thereof

Abstract

A weapon display device includes a display engine, a waveguide, and a base. The display engine is configured to selectively output light. The waveguide is configured to receive light from the display and output graphics to a user. The base is coupled to the display engine and the waveguide, and is further configured to be releasably mounted to one of a weapon or an optic mounted to the weapon such that a field of view through the waveguide is aligned with an optical axis of the optic.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 589,423, filed October 11, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to weapon systems, and more specifically to weapon systems and display devices for displaying information and graphics. Background Technology

[0003] Weapon sights are mounted on weapons to assist the user in aiming at them. It would be advantageous if the weapon sight or display device could also selectively display and aim at graphical and change information based on data collected by sensors associated with the weapon or the area where the weapon is used. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This document discloses specific embodiments of weapon display devices and systems. In one embodiment, the weapon display device includes a display engine, a waveguide, and a base. The display engine is configured to selectively output light. The waveguide is configured to receive light from the display and output graphics to the user. The base is coupled to the display engine and the waveguide, and is also configured to be releasably mounted to either a weapon or an optics device mounted to a weapon, such that the field of view through the waveguide is aligned with the optical axis of the optics device. Attached Figure Description

[0005] This disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be emphasized that, in accordance with common practice, the various features in the drawings are not drawn to scale. Instead, for clarity, the dimensions of the various features have been arbitrarily enlarged or reduced.

[0006] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of a weapon system with a weapon display device, a weapon, and a weapon sight.

[0007] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Top perspective view, front perspective view, and right perspective view of one embodiment of the weapon display device.

[0008] Figure 3 This is a right-side view of a weapon system, including the weapon display device and the weapon itself.

[0009] Figure 4A yes Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary optical system for a weapon display device, the exemplary optical system having a display engine and waveguides, including an optical path from the display to the user's eye.

[0010] Figure 4Byes Figure 4A A simplified view of the optical path.

[0011] Figure 5 It is a side view of another weapon system, a first variant, featuring a display device, firearms, and optics as an amplifier.

[0012] Figure 6 It is a side view of another weapon system, a second variant, which includes a display device, firearms, and optics as a rifle sight.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a side view of another weapon system, a third variant, which includes a display device, a firearm, and optics for a holographic weapon sight that serves as an output holographic aiming reticle.

[0014] Figure 8A and Figure 8B It is a perspective view of a display device in a first configuration that outputs information and aims at graphics, and in a second configuration that does not output information graphics.

[0015] Figure 9A and Figure 9B Is Figure 7 A and Figure 7 A perspective view of a variant of the display device with a fixed aiming reticle in the first and second configurations of B.

[0016] Figure 10 and Figure 11 These are the top perspective view, front perspective view, upper left perspective view, rear perspective view, and right perspective view of the display device.

[0017] Figure 12A and Figure 12B These are the side view and front view of the display device, respectively.

[0018] Figure 13A This is a front view schematic diagram of the waveguide of the display device.

[0019] Figures 13B to 13E This is a partial front view schematic diagram of different implementation schemes of the display device, which depicts the hidden components, various aspects of the waveguide, and the display area with dashed lines.

[0020] Figures 14A to 14B This is a partial schematic side view of different implementations of a display device with a focus adjustment mechanism.

[0021] Figure 14C and Figure 14D These are partial schematic side and top views of an implementation scheme for a display device with a display positioning adjustment mechanism.

[0022] Figures 15A to 15DThese are side views, top views, front views, and sectional views of a weapon system with a display device.

[0023] Figures 16A to 16E These are schematic side views, top views, front views, and sectional views of a weapon system with a display system. Detailed Implementation

[0024] refer to Figures 1 to 3 and Figure 9 to Figure 10 The weapon display device 100 is configured for a user to view a scene through it and for the scene to be enhanced with graphics 240 based on various sensors or systems 160. The display device 100 may also be referred to as a monitor, display device, display system, or sight for a firearm or weapon. Sensors or systems 160 may be physically unrelated to the display device 100, the weapon 1 to which the display device 100 is mounted (e.g., a firearm), or the user, or may be physically related to them. Those sensors or systems 160 that are physically related to the weapon 1 or the user may be referred to as weapon sensors 162, while those sensors or systems 160 that are not physically related to the weapon 1 or the user may be referred to as site sensors 164.

[0025] The scene is viewed directly by the user through display device 100. Display device 100 may also be referred to as a direct-viewing optics device. More specifically, display device 100 is transparent to provide a field of view (FOV) through which the user views the scene and overlays graphics 240 onto the scene.

[0026] Graphic 240 may include, for example, information graphics 242, aiming graphics 244 (e.g., a reticle), or both. The information conveyed by information graphics 242 provides enhanced situational awareness to the user compared to other weapon sights that do not provide information graphics and / or otherwise provide them. Information graphics 242 may include, for example, information received or derived from weapon sensors 162 associated with weapon 1 or the display device 100 itself, such as ballistic information about the trajectory of a particular ballistic trajectory, remaining ammunition counts received from a computing device associated with weapon 1, or remaining battery life of the display device 100. Information graphics 242 may include additional information from site sensors 164, which may include, for example, information related to targets, team members, or the physical environment.

[0027] In an embodiment where graphic 240 includes aiming graphic 244, aiming graphic 244 may indicate the point of contact of a projectile fired from weapon 1.

[0028] In one embodiment, the display device 100 typically includes a base 110, a display engine 120 and associated electronics 122, and optics 130 including a waveguide 132 and possibly one or more lenses 134. The display engine 120, associated electronics 122 and optics 130 are coupled to the base 110, which is then removably coupled to the weapon 1, such as a Picatinny rail for firearms.

[0029] refer to Figures 2 to 3 The base 110 includes one or more structural components to which functional components of the display device 100 (e.g., engine 120, electronics 122, and optics 130) are coupled, and which support such functional components. The base 110 typically includes a mounting portion 212, a housing 214, and a waveguide support 216. The mounting portion 212 is configured to be removably coupled to the weapon 1 independently of another optic 2, such as to a Picatinny rail in a conventional manner, or to the optic 2, such as to its front or rear end. The display device 100 and the optic 2 may be collectively referred to as a weapon aiming system 3, and with and without the optic 2, the display device 100 and the weapon 1 may be collectively referred to as a weapon system 4.

[0030] For example, as shown in the figure, the mounting portion 212 may include a structural member that defines a passage for receiving a rail of the firearm 1 therein. The mounting portion 212 may be formed from any suitable material (e.g., machined aluminum stock) via any suitable process.

[0031] Housing 214 is configured to house display engine 120 and associated electronics 122. Housing 214 defines one or more cavities for housing other components. Various optical and electronic components housed therein may be directly coupled to housing 214 or coupled to an intermediate structure or mechanism that is in turn coupled to housing 214. Housing 214 may be formed from one or more components of any suitable material via any suitable process (e.g., cast aluminum). Housing 214 is coupled to mounting portion 212 in any suitable manner, such as using fasteners, adhesives, and / or integrally formed therewith.

[0032] Waveguide support 216 is coupled to and supports optics 130, and holds waveguide 132 in a fixed (as shown) or adjustable relationship relative to mounting portion 212. Waveguide support 216 typically defines waveguide 132 through its field of view as, for example, circular and / or large enough that the entire field of view of optics 2 is visible through it. Waveguide support 216 may be opaque in other areas of waveguide 132 outside the field of view. Display device 100 can be considered to have a central axis extending through the center of the field of view and parallel to the optical axis of optics 2 (e.g., also substantially parallel to the firing axis of weapon 1). Waveguide support 216 can be formed from any suitable material via any suitable process (e.g., cast aluminum) from one or more components. Waveguide support 216 is coupled to housing 214 in any suitable manner, such as using fasteners, adhesives, and / or integrally formed therewith.

[0033] refer to Figure 3 and Figures 5 to 7 The base 110 is configured for displaying the device 100 without the other optical element 2 (see [reference]). Figure 3 In the case of having another optical device 2 (see...) Figures 5 to 7 ) or both (e.g., in the case where the optics 2 are on a flip mount). The display device 100 can be configured to be mounted between the scene or objective lens and the optics 2 (see Figure 5 ) or installed between the user and optical device 2 (see Figures 6 to 7 ).like Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the optical device 2 is mounted to the weapon 1 independently of the display device 100, for example, separately mounted to the Picatinny rail of the weapon 1.

[0034] When used with optics 2, display device 100 is optically aligned with optics 2, allowing the user to view the scene through both display device 100 and optics 2. Both display device 100 and optics 2 are also aligned with weapon 1, for example, aligning any aiming reticle of display device 100 (whether graphical or analog) and optics 2 with weapon 1. The other optics 2 can be one of several different types of optics, including but not limited to a magnifying glass (such as...). Figure 5 As shown), rifle scope (such as) Figure 6 (as shown) or holographic weapon sights (such as Figure 7 (As shown). Optical device 2 may be referred to as a weapon sight or a specific type of optical device. Optical device 2 may also be referred to as a main optical device, as the display device 100 can be used in conjunction with it.

[0035] In addition, such as Figure 6As shown, unlike other transparent displays (e.g., displays employing beam splitters), the use of waveguide 130 in display device 100 allows for a variety of packaging and physical configurations of display device 100 that can provide various benefits, including, for example, limiting visual limitations to benefit user contextual awareness, saving space on mounting rails, and / or occupying only a small fraction of the exit pupil distance when mounted between optics 2 and the user. The housing 214 of base 110 can be configured to be laterally offset, vertically offset (e.g., downwards), or both (as shown), and extends longitudinally (e.g., axially) away from waveguide support 216 (e.g., forwards away from the user). Figure 6 As shown, this arrangement allows the housing 214 of the base 110 to be positioned laterally outward and longitudinally overlapped with the optics 2 (e.g., axially or parallel to the firearm or aiming axis). Thus, the waveguide 132, supported by the waveguide support 216, can be positioned close to the optics 2 (e.g., the eyepiece end, or the objective lens end, as shown). The mounting portion 212 can be positioned axially away from the waveguide 132 (e.g., away from the waveguide support 216), such that... Figure 6 As shown, mounting portion 212 is connected to a mounting rail of weapon 1 below weapon sight 2. This mounting rail is located in the area of ​​weapon sight 2 that is further away from its end near waveguide 132 (e.g., the eyepiece end) above the mounting rail. Furthermore, instead of various electronic and / or optical components typically positioned above the weapon's mounting rail and occupying rail space, many such components can be positioned laterally offset to be positioned next to another optical device 2 (e.g., the battery of display device 100 overlaps with the axial dimension of optical device 2). See below for reference. Figure 12A and Figure 12B Discuss its various relative dimensions and advantages.

[0036] In another example (not shown), the display device 100 may be configured to be directly mounted to the optics 2, or mounted to the eyepiece end, the objective lens end, or both of the optics 2.

[0037] Display engine 120 is configured to output light that, after passing through waveguide 132, outputs informational graphics to a user. Display engine 120 may be, for example, a microdisplay, such as a liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) display or a micro-LED display. Electronics 122 associated with display engine 120 are configured to cause display engine 120 to output light and may include, for example, a communication interface 122a, a processor 122b, and power electronics 122c. Communication interface 122a is configured to send signals to and / or receive signals from display device 100 (e.g., from external systems and sensors 160). Processor 122b, such as a central processing unit or other processing device, is configured to process the signals received through communication interface 122a and output signals to control display engine 120 to output light. The power electronics 122c is configured to provide electrical power to the communication interface 122a and the processor 122b, for example, including a power storage device (e.g., a battery) and any regulating electronics adapted to regulate the power output by the power storage device for use by the display engine 120 and the processor 122b.

[0038] The processor 122b may be, for example, a central processing unit or other controller, having a processor, memory (e.g., volatile memory), storage device (e.g., non-volatile), communication interface and bus, and the processor 122b or other components of the controller communicate with each other via the bus.

[0039] Refer again Figure 1 The optical device 130 includes a waveguide 132 and may also include one or more lenses 134 through which light from the display engine 120 passes and is refracted before being received by the waveguide 132. The one or more lenses 134 may individually or collaboratively include or form a collimator.

[0040] refer to Figures 4A to 4BWaveguide 132 may include, for example, an input coupler 432a, an output coupler 432b, and a pupil dilator 432c. The input coupler 432a, output coupler 432b, and pupil dilator 432c are cooperatively configured to receive and diffract light from display engine 120 to output graphic 240 to the user along optical path 434. The input coupler 432a, output coupler 432b, and pupil dilator 432c may each be a volume phase hologram. Waveguide 132 is substantially transparent, allowing the user to directly view the field of view (FOV) through it, on which graphic 240 is superimposed. The input coupler 432a and output coupler 432b may also be referred to as a first coupler and a second coupler, respectively. The optical path 434 includes a first segment 434a from the display engine 120 to the lens 134, a second segment 434b from the lens 134 to the input coupler 432a, a third segment 434c from the input coupler 432a to the pupil dilator 432c, a fourth segment 434d from the pupil dilator 432c to the output coupler 432b, and a fifth segment 434e from the output coupler 432b to the user's eye.

[0041] The spatial arrangement of the input coupler 432a, output coupler 432b, pupil expander 432c, FOV, and base 120 (e.g., waveguide support 216) is referenced below. Figures 13A to 13E This will be discussed further. Furthermore, the display device 100 may be configured with various mechanical and / or digital adjustment mechanisms, which will be referred to below. Figures 14A to 14D Let's have a discussion.

[0042] refer to Figures 8A to 8B The display device 100 is configured for the user to selectively display information graphics 242, aiming graphics 244, or both. For example... Figure 8A As shown, the user can directly view the scene via the display device 100, and particularly via the waveguide 132, while information graphics 242 and aiming graphics 244 are output to the user via the waveguide 132 and superimposed on the scene. Figure 8B As shown, the user can directly view the scene through the display device 100 (i.e., through the waveguide 132), while the information graphic 242, aiming graphic 244, or both (as shown) are not output to the user. In the case where the display device 100 includes the aiming graphic 244 but does not include a simulated aiming reticle (see below) Figures 9A to 9B(For discussion purposes) The position of the aiming graphic 244 can be electronically adjusted by the user (i.e., changing the graphic position of the aiming graphic 244 output relative to the base 110) to ensure that the aiming graphic 244 indicates the point of impact of the projectile fired by the weapon 1. In another example, the aiming graphic 244 may be fixedly positioned relative to the base 110, and the display device 100, and in particular the base 110, may include a mechanical adjustment mechanism for adjusting windage, elevation, or both, by which the base 110 and thus the aiming graphic 244 are aligned with the point of impact of the projectile. For example, the aiming graphic 244 may be a hologram recorded in the output coupler 432b.

[0043] By using waveguide 132, various standards for different applications can be met, such as contrast in bright daylight environments, operability of the diopter adjustment mechanism, low impact on exit pupil distance, and the ability for the user to view the image 240 without refocusing (e.g., when changing between viewing a scene (such as a target within the scene) and viewing the image 240).

[0044] refer to Figures 9A to 9B The weapon display device 100A is a variation of the display device 100 and may further include an analog aiming reticle 950, which is a fixed analog pattern applicable to the waveguide 132 (e.g., to one of two opposing glass substrates of the waveguide 132). Like the display device 100, the display device 100 is configured for the user to selectively display information graphics 242, aiming graphics 244, or both. Figure 9A As shown, the aiming pattern 244 can be output in a complementary manner to the analog aiming reticle 950 (e.g., as the center point within the crosshairs formed by the analog aiming reticle 950 or other aiming reticles). With the analog aiming reticle 950 fixed to the waveguide 132 and thus relative to the base 110, the display device 100A may include a mechanical adjustment mechanism for adjusting windage, elevation, or both, by which the base 110 and / or the analog aiming reticle 950 are aligned with the point of impact of the projectile. Furthermore, the display device 100A may be calibrated during manufacturing, after user manufacturing, or both, so that the aiming pattern 244 is properly aligned with the analog aiming reticle 950, for example, to compensate for any mechanical tolerances between the base 110 and the waveguide 132.

[0045] refer to Figure 12A and Figure 12BAs mentioned above, various benefits can be provided by encapsulating the display device 100 by laterally and / or vertically offsetting it relative to the central axis of the display device 100 and / or the optical axis of the optics 2. The display device 100 can be defined according to its relative dimensions. When considering various dimensions, each of the mounting portion 212, housing 214, and waveguide support 216 can be considered to include other components attached thereto (e.g., covers for contacting components thereon, fasteners, user inputs, etc.). The dimensions are defined based on the display device 100 being in a fixed use position relative to the weapon 1, where the firearm axis is horizontal.

[0046] refer to Figure 12B The display device 100 may be defined by different width dimensions, which are horizontal dimensions when viewed from a user's perspective, and where the display device 100 may be limited to forward viewing of a scene outside the field of view. The display device 100 has a total width W_O, which is the horizontal dimension between the leftmost and rightmost surfaces of the display device 100. The display device 100 also has an offset width W_B and a non-offset width W_U, which together equal the total width W_O. The offset width W_B and the non-offset width W_U are the horizontal distances between the farthest and nearest surfaces of the display device 100 and the central axis of the display device 100 or the optical axis of the optics 2, respectively. The farthest surface may be the outer edge of the housing 214 (as shown), while the nearest surface may be the outer edge of the mounting member 212, the waveguide support member 216, or both (as shown). The offset width W_B may, for example, be greater than 60%, 70%, or more of the total width W_O, such as between 70% and 80%. The unbiased width W_U forms the remainder of the total width W_O (e.g., less than 40%, 30%, or less, or between 30% and 20%). The biased width W_B can also be defined relative to the unbiased width W_U, for example, greater than 1.25 times, 1.75 times, or 2 times or more of its size (e.g., between 2 and 3 times, such as between 2.25 and 2.75 times). The display device 100 can also be defined by an upper width W_U2, which is the dimension between the outermost surface above the central axis of the display device 100 and / or the optical axis of the optics 2. The upper width W_U2 can be significantly smaller than the total width W_O, for example, less than 80%, 70%, or 60% (e.g., between 50% and 60%).

[0047] The display device 100 can be defined by different height dimensions, which are vertical dimensions when viewed from a user's perspective (or from one side of the display device 100). The display device 100 has a total height H_O, which is the vertical dimension between the uppermost and lowermost surfaces of the display device 100. The uppermost surface may be formed by the upper edge of the waveguide support 216 (as shown), and the lowermost surface may be formed by the lower edge of the housing 214 (as shown). The display device 100 also has an upper height H_U and a lower height H_L, which together are equal to the total height H_O, and are the vertical distances between the uppermost and lowermost surfaces and the central axis of the display device 100, the optical axis of the optics 2, or both, respectively. The lower height H_L may, for example, be greater than 60%, 70%, or more of the total height H_O (e.g., between 70% and 80%). The upper height H_U forms the remainder of the total height H_O (e.g., less than 40%, 30%, or less, or between 30% and 20%). The lower height H_L may also be defined relative to the upper height H_U, for example, greater than 1.25 times, 1.75 times, or 2 times or more of its size (e.g., between 2 and 3 times, such as between 2.25 and 2.75 times). The total height H_O may extend below the rails of weapon 1.

[0048] By offsetting most of the height and width of the display device 100 relative to the central axis of the display device 100 and / or the optical axis of the optics 2 to one side and / or downward, the display device 100 provides high context awareness by having very little visual restriction above the optical axis of the optics 2.

[0049] The display device 100 can be defined by different length dimensions, which are horizontal dimensions when viewed from one side in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the central axis of the display device 100 and / or the optical axis of the optics 2. The display device 100 has a total length L_O, which is the horizontal dimension between the surfaces closest to the target and the user. The surface closest to the target can be formed by housing 214 (as shown), while the surface closest to the user can be formed by housing 214 (as shown) or waveguide support 216. The display device 100 also has a target-side length L_T and a user-side length L_U1, which together are equal to the total length L_O. The target-side length L_T and the user-side length L_U1 are the horizontal distances between the surfaces of the display device 100 closest to the target and the shooter, respectively, and the target-facing (e.g., at its center) surface of the waveguide 132. The target-side length L_T can be greater than 60%, 70%, 80%, or more of the total length L_O, for example, between 70% and 80%. By making the target-side length L_T form most of the total length L_O, most of the length of the display device 100 can overlap in the axial dimension of the optical element 2, so as to save both the exit pupil distance of the optical element 2 (discussed below) and the mounting space on the guide rail of the weapon 1.

[0050] The display device 100 can also be considered to have an upper length L_U2, which is the horizontal distance above the axis of the display device 100 and / or the sight 2 between the surfaces closest to the target and the shooter (e.g., between the surfaces of the waveguide support 216). The upper length L_U2 may be less than 35%, 30%, 25%, or less of the total length L_O of the weapon display device 100. The upper length L_U2 may be less than 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, or 15% of the design exit pupil distance of the optics 2 used with it in the weapon system. The upper length L_U2 may also be less than the maximum size of the field of view of the display device 100 and / or the optics 2, such as less than 90%, 80%, 70%, or 60% of its diameter or other maximum size perpendicular to its axis. The upper length L_U2 may, for example, be less than 2.5, 2.0, 1.5, or less centimeters. When the upper length L_U2 of the display device 100 is relatively small relative to the total length and to the exit pupil distance of the optics 2 used therewith (e.g., between approximately 8 and 13 cm), the display device 100 may occupy only a small portion of the exit pupil distance (e.g., to allow for recoil). The upper length L_U2 may also be defined relative to the upper width W_U. The upper length L_U2 may be smaller than the upper width W_U, such as less than 80%, 70%, 60%, or 50% of the upper width W_U or less.

[0051] refer to Figures 13A to 13EAs referenced above, the display device 100 may include the waveguide 132 itself and various spatial arrangements of the display area and other optical components relative to the base 120 (e.g., waveguide support) and / or output by the display engine 120.

[0052] like Figure 13A As shown, waveguide 132 is a single component comprising an input coupler 432a, an output coupler 432b, and a pupil dilator 432c as a diffraction grating (e.g., a volume phase hologram) formed in a holographic medium between substrates. The central axis of the display device 100 coincides with (i.e., passes through) the output coupler 432b, while the pupil dilator 432c is positioned below the output coupler 432b, and the input coupler 432a is laterally spaced from the pupil dilator 432c (e.g., to the left, as shown).

[0053] For further reference Figures 13B to 13E The waveguide support 216 of the base 110 defines a field of view 1302 therethrough. The output coupler 432b coincides with the field of view 1302, allowing the output graphic 240 to be viewed by the user along with the scene. The graphic 240 is output in a display area 1321, which is the area of ​​the waveguide 132. If the output coupler 432b is in the same area, the image output by the display engine 120 will be output to that area by the output coupler (i.e., as output by the display engine 120 itself and / or transmitted to the output coupler 432b via the lens 134, input coupler 432a, and pupil dilator 432c). In each instance, the input coupler 432a and pupil dilator 432c are positioned outside the field of view 1302 and are not visible to the user, for example, behind an opaque portion of the waveguide support 216 or behind other parts of the base 110, such as the housing 120.

[0054] exist Figure 13B In the example shown, the output coupler 432b is smaller than the field of view 1302 and is positioned entirely within it. The display area 1321 is sized to match the output coupler 432b and is positioned to coincide with it, as indicated by the common lead from the reference numerals 432b and 1321 drawn to the same dashed box. In this configuration, the display engine 120 and lens 134 must be precisely positioned and oriented relative to each other and to the waveguide 132 (e.g., the input coupler 432a). Without precise orientation, only a portion of the display area 1321 overlaps with the output coupler 432b, making it impossible for all of the graphics 240 to be output to the user.

[0055] exist Figure 13CIn another example shown, the output coupler 432b is larger than the display area 1321; for example, both the output coupler 432b and the display area 1321 are rectangular. When the display area 1321 is smaller than the output coupler 432b, the display engine 120 and the lens 134 can be... Figure 13B The configuration allows for lower precision in positioning and orientation relative to each other and waveguide 132, while allowing all graphics 240 to be output to the user (e.g., display area 1321 is off-center relative to output coupler 432c). In this case, the corresponding dimensions of each of the other optical components (e.g., lens 134, input coupler 432a, and pupil dilator 432c) are also larger than display area 1321 to allow display engine 120 to be placed less precisely relative to it.

[0056] exist Figure 13D In the example shown, the output coupler 432b is larger than the display area, for example, its size is approximately the same as the field of view (e.g., 80%, 90%, 100% or more of the area). For example, as shown, the output coupler 432b extends beyond the field of view 1302 and is partially outside the field of view behind the waveguide support 216. The output coupler 432b may, for example, extend to the edge of the waveguide 132 (e.g., after the output coupler 432b is formed, the waveguide 132 is cut or otherwise shaped into its final form). The display area 1321 is completely contained within the output coupler 432b and may (as shown) or may not extend beyond the field of view 1302.

[0057] exist Figure 13E In the example shown, the output coupler 432a is approximately the same size as the field of view 1302 (and...). Figure 13D (Similar to the example in the example), while the display area 1321 is larger than the output coupler 432a, for example, encompassing the entire or nearly the entire output coupler 432a and the entire field of view 1302. In this example, the positioning of the graphic 240 within the field of view 1302 can be graphically performed by selecting which pixels of the display engine 120 are utilized.

[0058] refer to Figures 14A to 14D As referenced above, the display device 100 may include various mechanical adjustment mechanisms for focusing the display device 100 and / or aligning the display engine 120 and / or the lens 134, thereby aligning the display area 1321 relative to the output coupler 432b and / or the field of view 1302.

[0059] In each instance, the display device 100 includes a focus adjustment mechanism 1450 (illustrated schematically) that mechanically focuses the optical components toward the user. Figure 1The focus adjustment mechanism 1450 is also schematically depicted. In each example, one of one or more lenses in the engine 120 or lens 134 is shown moving axially relative to the other (i.e., along the center of the optical path). Figure 14A As shown, the axial positioning of the display engine 120 relative to one or more lenses 134 is linearly adjustable to adjust the focus of the display device 100 on the user and / or the optical device 2. One or more lenses are fixedly positioned relative to the base 120, while the display engine 120 is movably coupled to the base 120 via a focus adjustment mechanism 1450, which allows the display engine 120 to move axially (i.e., along a fixed axis) toward and away from the one or more lenses 134.

[0060] The focus adjustment mechanism 1450 includes a component movable relative to the base 120. The focus adjustment mechanism 1450 can be one of several different mechanisms for moving the display engine 120, such as a lead screw, a moving stage, or a flexure. The focus adjustment mechanism 1450 can be manually operated, in which case a user engages a mechanical input (e.g., a knob or lever) to move the focus adjustment mechanism 1450, or it can be electrically operated, in which case a motor moves the focus adjustment mechanism 1450 (e.g., based on input received electronically from the user or from another source).

[0061] like Figure 14B As shown, one or more lenses 134 are linearly adjustable in axial positioning relative to the display engine 120 to adjust the focus of the display device 100 on the user and / or the optics 2. The display engine 120 is in a fixed axial position relative to the base 120, while one or more lenses 134 are movably coupled to the base 120 via a focus adjustment mechanism 1450, which allows the one or more lenses 134 to move axially (i.e., along a fixed axis) toward and away from the display engine 120. The focus adjustment mechanism 1450 may be previously mentioned... Figure 14A One of several different institutions described.

[0062] refer to Figure 14C and Figure 14D The display engine 120 can additionally tilt relative to one or more lenses 134. Figure 14C ) and yaw ( Figure 14DThe display engine 120 is rotatably adjustable relative to the output coupler 432b and / or the field of view 1302 to adjust the display area 1321, for example, to align the display area 1321 with the field of view and / or move the display area 1321 within the field of view 1302 according to user preference. The display device 100 includes a display positioning adjustment mechanism 1460 (schematically depicted) that pivots the display engine 120 relative to one or more lenses 134 on two substantially perpendicular axes (e.g., pitch and yaw). The display positioning adjustment mechanism 1460 thereby changes the angle at which light in the first segment 434a of the optical path 434 is incident on the surface of one or more lenses 134 closest to the display engine 120 (compare the solid and dashed lines of the display engine 120 and the first segment 434a of the optical path 434, which are exaggerated for illustrative purposes to show the change in rotational orientation). Figure 1 The diagram also schematically depicts the display positioning adjustment mechanism 1460.

[0063] One or more lenses 134 are sized to receive light from display engine 120 at varying angles and positions on their nearest surface in the first segment 434a of optical path 434, so as to output light in the second segment 434b of optical path 434 to input coupler 432a in a suitable manner (e.g., without distortion, such as vignetting or aberrations, and without reducing the visible size of display area 1321).

[0064] The display positioning adjustment mechanism 1460 includes a component movable relative to the base 120. The display positioning adjustment mechanism 1460 (illustrated schematically) can be one of a variety of different mechanisms, such as a lead screw, a moving table, or a flexure, which pivots the display engine 120 and constrains such pivoting about two pivot axes (e.g., pitch and yaw). The display positioning adjustment mechanism 1460 can be manually operated, in which case the user engages mechanical inputs (e.g., knobs and / or levers) that move the display positioning adjustment mechanism 1460, or it can be electrically operated, in which case a motor moves the display positioning adjustment mechanism 1460 (e.g., based on input received electronically from the user or from another source).

[0065] The movement of the display area 1321 can be based on user preference (e.g., when the output coupler 432b is larger than the display area 1321) or for functional purposes (e.g., when aligning the display area 1321 with an output coupler 432b of similar size and shape, or aligning the aiming pattern 244 in a manner suitable for aiming at the weapon 1). The display positioning adjustment mechanism 1460 can be used in conjunction with the focus adjustment mechanism 1450, as per [reference to...]. Figure 14A The description (i.e., in which the display engine 120 moves axially) or as about Figure 14B As described (i.e., one or more of the lenses 134 move axially).

[0066] Instead of mechanical adjustment, or in addition to mechanical adjustment, the positioning of the graphic 240 output by the display device 120 can be digitally adjusted, that is, the graphic 240 can be output using different subsets of the pixels of the display engine 120. Such adjustment can be based on user preference and / or functionality (e.g., aiming the alignment of the graphic 240). Digital adjustment of the display area 1321 and / or the graphic 240 can be performed based on user input or automatic input, for example, received via the communication interface 1221a.

[0067] refer to Figures 15A to 16E Variations of the display device 100 can be packaged and configured to be mounted to the weapon 1 in different ways. (See reference) Figures 15A to 15D The weapon system 1504 includes a weapon 1, an optical component 2 serving as a rifle sight, and a display device 1500. Figures 15A to 15D In each of the figures, various hidden aspects of different components are shown with dashed lines. Optical components 2 are mounted to weapon 1 as previously described, for example, to mounting rail 1a of weapon 1. Display devices 1500 are typically configured as described regarding... Figure 1 The configuration described (e.g., including electronics 122, display engine 120, optics 132, waveguide 132, lens 134, adjustment mechanism 1450 and / or 1460) also includes a base 1510 configured to mount to a mounting rail 1a of the optics 2, rather than the weapon 1. The optics 2 typically include an eyepiece end 1502a, an objective lens end 1502b, and a tubular portion 1502c extending between the eyepiece end 1502b and the objective lens end 1502c. Each of the eyepiece end 1502a, the objective lens end 1502b, and the tubular portion 1502c includes a housing and optical components (e.g., lenses) housed therein. The eyepiece end 1502a may also include a diopter adjustment mechanism 1502d, which is rotatable relative to the housing of the eyepiece end 1502a to focus a reticle for a given user. The optics 2 also includes one or more mounting members 1502e, through which the optics 2 is mounted to the guide rail 1a of the weapon 1. The one or more mounting members 1502e may, for example, include an upper end clamped around the tubular portion 1502c and a lower end conventionally coupled to the guide rail 1a.

[0068] The base 1510 of the display device 1500 typically includes a mounting portion 1512, a housing 1514, and a waveguide support 1516. The mounting portion 1512 is configured to mount the display device 1500 to the optics 2, and specifically, to the housing (as shown) of the eyepiece end 1502b, or alternatively, to the tubular portion 1502c (not shown). The mounting portion 1512 can be, for example, a clamp that tightly surrounds the housing of the eyepiece end 1502b, for example, having an upper half with a ring that is fastened to the lower half to pull them together to tightly surround the eyepiece end 1502b. The housing 1514 is coupled to and supported by the mounting portion 1512. The housing 1514 typically houses the electronics 122 and may also house the display engine 120 and / or the lens 134. Similar to housing 214, housing 1514 may extend axially along the optics 2 and / or be substantially or completely positioned below the central axis of the display device 1500. Waveguide support 1516 is connected to and supported by housing 1516 between the user and the eyepiece end 1502b of optics 2, in order to define the field of view through it and support waveguide 132 relative to optics 2, as previously described with respect to waveguide support 216. Waveguide support 1516 and waveguide 132 therein may be axially spaced from diopter adjustment mechanism 1502d to provide the user with access to it and allow rotation thereto.

[0069] Display device 1500 may be sized as described above regarding display device 100 (see description of...). Figures 12A to 12B (Discussion) or have other sizes.

[0070] refer to Figures 16A to 16E The weapon system 1604 includes a weapon 1, an optical element 2, and a display system 1600. The display system 1600 typically includes a display module 1660 and an electronic module 1670, which are structurally separate but electrically connected via one or more cables 1680. The display module 1660 can be coupled to the optical element 2 and thus supported in a suitable orientation and positioning so that its field of view is aligned with the optical axis of the optical element 2. The electronic module 1670 can be coupled to the weapon 1, such as via a mounting rail 1a, and, as shown, can also be configured as a mount for the optical element 2.

[0071] Display module 1660 includes a base 1662, a display engine 120, and optics 130 (i.e., waveguide 132 and lens 134), as well as other electronic components (e.g., circuitry for receiving signals and power for the display module 1660 to output graphics 240). Base 16662 includes a mounting portion 1662a, an arm portion 1662b, and a housing 1662c. Mounting portion 1662a is configured to be coupled to optics 2, as described above with respect to mounting portion 1512 of display device 1500 (i.e., the housing coupled to eyepiece end 1502a or tubular portion 1502c). Arm portion 1662b is coupled to and supported by mounting portion 1662a, and extends axially and adjacent to optics 2, for example and as shown (e.g., below the central axis and / or field of view of waveguide 132). The housing 1662c is configured similarly to waveguide supports 216, 1516 (i.e., by defining the field of view and supporting waveguide 132), while also housing the optical engine 120 and one or more lenses 134 and / or other electronic components (e.g., for connection to cable 1680 and for processing signals and power). The arm portion 1662b alternatively houses the optical engine 120, one or more lenses 134, and / or other electronic components. The base 1662 also includes a focus adjustment mechanism 1450 coupled thereto, and may also include a graphic positioning adjustment mechanism 1460 (if provided), such as with the housing 1662.

[0072] Electronic module 1670 includes a base 1690 and electronics 122 (e.g., a communication interface 122a, a processor 122b, and a power supply 122c, as well as any other necessary circuitry and / or connectors for connecting electronic module 1670 to display module 1660 via cable 1680). Base 1690 typically includes a weapon mounting portion 1692 and a housing portion 1694. Weapon mounting portion 1692 is configured to be mounted to weapon 1, such as to mounting rail 1a. Housing portion 1694 houses electronics 122 therein.

[0073] As shown in the figure, the electronic module 1670 can also be configured as a mounting bracket for the optical device 2. As shown, the electronic module may also include another mounting rail 1694a at its upper end, and the optical device 2 is mounted to this other mounting rail via one or more mounting brackets 1502e (as described above and in...). Figures 15A to 15D As shown in the diagram, when the electronic module 1670 is mounted to the mounting rail 1a of the weapon 1, the mounting rail 1694a of the electronic module 1670 extends parallel to it, allowing the optics 2 to be aligned with the mounting rail 1a of the weapon 1, and thus with the weapon 1. Alternatively, the electronic module may include a mounting member 1502e integrated therewith, which instead connects to and extends upward from the upper side of the housing portion 1694, without the mounting rail 1694a interposed therebetween.

[0074] Although this disclosure has been described in conjunction with certain embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but rather is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims, which will be given the broadest interpretation in order to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures permitted by law.

Claims

1. A display system, comprising: A display engine configured to selectively output light; A waveguide configured to receive light from a display and output graphics to a user; and A base, which is connected to the display engine and the waveguide, and is also configured to be releasably mounted to either a weapon or an optics device mounted to the weapon, such that the field of view through the waveguide is aligned with the optical axis of the optics device.

2. The display system of claim 1, wherein the waveguide comprises an input coupler, an output coupler, and a pupil expander, the input coupler, the output coupler, and the pupil expander being a volume phase hologram and receiving light from the display and cooperatively configured to output the graphic; and The electronic device includes a communication interface for receiving signals containing information, a processor for processing the signals and providing display signals to the display to output the graphics according to the display signals, and a power electronic device for providing power to operate the communication interface and the processor.

3. The display system of claim 1, wherein the waveguide includes an input coupler, an output coupler, and a pupil expander, the input coupler, the output coupler, and the pupil expander receiving light from the display and being cooperatively configured to output the graphic.

4. The display system according to claim 3, wherein the input coupler, the output coupler, and the pupil expander are volume phase holograms.

5. The display system according to any one of claims 3, wherein the graphics include information graphics, aiming graphics, or both.

6. The display system of claim 5, wherein the graphic includes the aiming graphic, and the positioning of the aiming graphic can be adjusted by a user relative to the base via the display.

7. The display system of claim 1, further comprising a lens that receives light from the display engine and transmits the light to the waveguide, and a focus adjustment mechanism that moves one of the lens or the display engine axially relative to the base and the other of the lens or the display engine to focus the graphic for a user.

8. The display system of claim 7, wherein the focus adjustment mechanism causes the display engine to move axially.

9. The display system of claim 7 further includes a display positioning adjustment mechanism, the display positioning adjustment mechanism causing the display engine to pivot about two vertical axes to adjust the position of light from the display engine incident on the lens, thereby adjusting the position of the pattern output from the waveguide.

10. The display system of claim 1, further comprising electronic devices configured to operate the display to output the graphics to the user.

11. The display system of claim 10, wherein the base includes a mounting portion configured to be mounted to a rail of a weapon, a housing coupled to and supported by the mounting portion and housing the electronics, and a waveguide support coupled to and supported by the housing and supporting the waveguide.

12. The display system of claim 10, wherein the optical device is a rifle scope, and the base includes a mounting portion configured to be mounted to the rifle scope, a housing coupled to and supported by the mounting portion and housing the electronic device, and a waveguide support coupled to and supported by the housing and supporting the waveguide.

13. The display system of claim 10, wherein the optical device is a rifle sight, and the display system includes a display module, an electronic module, and a cable for transmitting power and signals from the electronic module to the display module; The display module includes the display engine, the waveguide, and the base, the base being configured to be mounted to the rifle scope; and The electronic module includes the electronic devices configured to be mounted to the weapon and to mount the rifle scope to the electronic module.

14. The weapon display device of claim 10, wherein the electronics include a communication interface for receiving a signal having information, a processor for processing the signal and providing a display signal to the display to output the graphic according to the display signal, and power electronics for providing power to operate the communication interface and the processor.

15. A weapon system comprising: arms; Optical components, the optical components being coupled to the weapon, and The weapon display device according to any one of the preceding claims is coupled to the weapon.

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