Viewing optic with round counter system

Abstract

To provide a user / shooter with information regarding an ammunition status while visually maintaining an intended target.SOLUTION: The disclosure relates to a viewing optic. In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a display system for a viewing optic. In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having a display system with multiple active displays for generating images that are projected into a first focal plane of an optical system. In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic with an active display and a round counter system.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 91

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 794,065, filed January 18, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 794,233, filed January 18, 2019, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] (Technical field) The present disclosure relates to a viewing optic with an integrated display system. In one embodiment, the viewing optic has an active display system that generates and projects an image onto a first focal plane of an optical system. In yet another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic with a bullet counter system. [Background technology]

[0003] Riflescopes have been in use for well over a century, and while the quality and functionality of these devices have advanced significantly over the years, the core components (and limitations associated with these components) used in their design, manufacture, and application remain largely unchanged from 100 years ago. Riflescopes produce a magnified or non-magnified image of a scene remote from the shooter on a focal plane that coincides with an aiming feature, or reticle. The reticle consists of wire or material deposited in a pattern on the glass surface and is used as an aiming reference that corresponds to the trajectory of the rifle to which it is attached. The reticle may also include specific features to assist the shooter in judging distance and compensating for bullet deflection at different distances.

[0004] Turrets are also used to adjust the reticle position relative to the target to compensate for bullet deflection. This is a highly developed and reliable system that can be used in the hands of an experienced, skilled shooter to perform difficult long-range shots. With the aid of a laser range finder (LRF) and ballistic computer, and careful attention to detail, an experienced shooter can consistently hit the target at their firearm's maximum effective range by making the necessary mechanical adjustments to the firearm and / or executing a precise hold on the reticle pattern.

[0005] While this system works well, there is always a desire to improve the system, especially to reduce the complexity involved in hitting targets at long distances. To effectively hit targets at long distances, a large amount of information is required for each shot, and the shooter must be able to process this information and make the correct decisions and calculations in real time. In addition to the riflescope, other tools are needed by the shooter to ensure accurate shot placement. For example, a bubble level mounted on the exterior of the riflescope is needed to ensure the optic is level before executing the shot. This requires the shooter to move their head away from the pupil of the optic to check their level.

[0006] A laser rangefinder and ballistic computer are also required to measure target distance and calculate bullet trajectory. Again, this requires the shooter to pay attention to the external device and then remember that data when making any necessary adjustments. When using a weapon-mounted laser rangefinder, the shooter must take special care to ensure the optic's aim point is closely aligned with the LRF's aim point.

[0007] Furthermore, a key drawback to riflescope use is that they are only useful during daylight hours. As night sets in, thermal and / or night vision devices must be attached to the weapon in front of the riflescope. These devices capture other forms of radiation that are not visible to the human eye due to their low wavelength or intensity. These devices then recreate or intensify an image of the scene and re-image it onto the riflescope's objective lens. These devices, which are necessary to be effective in low-light conditions, are also heavy and bulky.

[0008] In the specific case of a thermal imaging device, a thermal scene is imaged via infrared optics onto a specialized thermal sensor. The image is then reproduced on a microdisplay, which is then reimaged onto the objective lens of a riflescope with visible optics. The two separate optics required to accomplish this result in a fairly large, heavy, and expensive device. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] As technology advances, a level of systems integration is needed to reduce the heavy processing requirements placed on the shooter. This integration is also needed to reduce the "time to engagement," which is traditionally quite long when multiple devices must be referenced, calculated, and coordinated. Finally, the size and weight of the additional devices required to effectively use a riflescope in low-light conditions can be reduced with a more integrated solution.

[0010] Prior devices have attempted to address some of these problems in various ways, with varying degrees of success. However, all prior attempts have implemented the solution in the second focal plane of the optic. This is a significant disadvantage, as the second focal plane of a riflescope only correlates well with the image of the scene at a single magnification setting.

[0011] The aimpoint location is similarly accurate only at the one point of the turret adjustment. Due to this serious limitation, additional electronics are required to track variables in the rest of the system and adjust the aimpoint accordingly. Other systems provide approximate aimpoint solutions by illuminating features at comprehensive, coarse intervals, rather than having a selection point at near-infinite distance. More fragile systems can only display basic information such as the range to the target or current weather conditions.

[0012] When firing semi-automatic and automatic firearms in law enforcement, military operations, and target shooting competitions, it is desirable to know when a magazine is about to run out of ammunition. Competition shooters need to know this information so they can remove the empty magazine and prepare to replace it with a full one with minimal loss of shooting time. In police and military operations, the need to know is even more critical. A police officer or soldier could lose their life in a split second before realizing that they must change their magazine, or an enemy or felon could escape. Additionally, studies have shown that under the stress of a gunfight, it is nearly impossible for a user to accurately track which cartridges they have fired and which are remaining.

[0013] Previous attempts to monitor ammunition status by indicating the number of rounds used or remaining have met with mediocre success and have generally only been applied to pistols, not other firearms. The devices are often large and cumbersome, requiring modifications to each firearm and redesign by the original equipment manufacturer for installation. Such systems do not distinguish between an empty and jammed condition. However, one of the biggest drawbacks of previous systems is that information about ammunition status is not provided directly within the user / shooter's field of view. The user / shooter must take their eyes off the target to receive information about ammunition status.

[0014] Therefore, there remains a need for viewing optics that can project information onto the first focal plane of the optical system. It is important to be able to provide the user / shooter with information regarding ammunition status while maintaining a view of the intended target. The devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein address all of these shortcomings in an innovative manner. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a system including a viewing optic and a bullet counter system. In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a system including a viewing optic, a bullet counter system, and a firearm. In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a bullet counter system configured to communicate with a viewing optic having an active display. In one embodiment, the bullet counter system communicates information regarding ammunition status to the active display, and the active display projects the information regarding ammunition status onto a first focal plane of the viewing optic.

[0016] In one embodiment, the bullet counter system includes a magazine follower having one or more magnets inserted into the magazine and a low-profile magnetic sensor located in the magwell or other location on the receiver. The bullet counter system disclosed herein can operate in conjunction with a viewing optic having an integrated display system for displaying ammunition status in a first focal plane of the viewing optic.

[0017] In one embodiment, the magnetic sensor can be in a remote control connected to the sighting optics, the remote control being attached to the magazine well of the firearm, and the magnetic sensor transmitting information to the sighting optics to raise the magazine when a round is stripped from the magazine by the firearm.

[0018] In one embodiment, the bullet counter system includes a magazine follower having one or more magnets positioned in front of one or more Hall Effect sensors as the magazine follower moves through the magazine. An activated Hall Effect sensor corresponds to the current position of the magnetic field and, therefore, the position of the magazine follower. Signals associated with the Hall Effect sensors detecting the magnetic field are communicated to a processing unit, which correlates the height of the magazine follower with the number of bullets remaining in the cartridge. The processing unit is configured to communicate with an active display of the observation optics, which displays the bullet count information in a first focal plane of the observation optics.

[0019] In one embodiment, one or more Hall Effect sensors can be located on a circuit board within the magazine well. In yet another embodiment, one or more Hall Effect sensors can be located in the receiver of the firearm. In another embodiment, one or more Hall Effect sensors can be located on a circuit board.

[0020] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a system comprising observation optics having an optical system configured to focus a target image from an external scene onto a first focal plane, an active display configured to generate a digital image, and a bullet counter configured to track ammunition status and communicate the ammunition status to the active display, wherein the ammunition status is projected onto the first focal plane of the observation optics.

[0021] In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides: an observation optical instrument having (a) a main tube; (b) an objective lens system coupled to a first end of the main tube that focuses a target image from an external scene; (c) an eyepiece lens system coupled to a second end of the main tube, the eyepiece lens system being configured such that the main tube, the objective lens system, and the eyepiece lens system define at least a first focal plane; and (d) an active display configured to generate a digital image; a bullet counter system including: a magazine follower having one or more magnets inserted into the magazine and a plurality of magnetic sensors disposed on the magwell, wherein an activated magnetic sensor corresponds to a position of the magazine follower; and a processor configured to correlate the position of the magazine follower with ammunition status and communicate with an active display, wherein the ammunition status is projected onto a first focal plane of observation optics; The present invention relates to a system comprising:

[0022] In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides: (a) moving a magazine follower having one or more magnets through a magazine; (b) activating the magnetic sensor when the magazine follower is in proximity to the magnetic sensor; (c) determining ammunition status based on the position of the magazine follower indicated by the activated magnetic sensor; (d) communicating the munitions status to an active display of the observation optics; (e) generating a digital image of the ammunition status using an active display; (f) projecting the digital image onto a first focal plane of the observation optics; The present invention relates to a method, including:

[0023] In one embodiment, an observation optical instrument is provided, the observation optical instrument including a main tube, an objective lens system coupled to a first end of the main tube, and an eyepiece lens system coupled to a second end of the main tube. The main tube, the objective lens system, and the eyepiece lens system are cooperatively configured to define at least one focal plane. The observation optical instrument further includes a beam combiner positioned between the objective lens system and the first focal plane. The observation optical instrument further includes an integrated display system with an active display, the active display being capable of generating and projecting a digital image onto the beam combiner and combining the digital image with a target image from the objective lens system at the first focal plane.

[0024] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument that includes a first optical system consisting of an objective lens system that focuses an image from a target onto a first focal plane (hereinafter referred to as the "FFP target image"), followed by an erect lens system that inverts and focuses the FFP target image onto a second focal plane (hereinafter referred to as the "SFP target image"), a beam combiner positioned between the objective lens system and the FFP target image, and an eyepiece lens system that collimates the SFP target image so that it can be viewed by the human eye; and a second optical system. In one embodiment, the second optical system includes an active display for generating an image and a lens system that collects light from the active display. An image from the digital display is directed to the beam combiner so that the digital image and the target image from the objective lens system are combined at the first focal plane and can be viewed simultaneously.

[0025] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument having a main body with optics for observing an external scene, and a base coupled to the main body with an integrated display system for generating a digital image and directing the generated image to simultaneously view an image of the external scene superimposed on the generated image at a first focal plane of the main body. In one embodiment, the base is separable from the main body. In one embodiment, the base is coupled to the bottom of the main body. In yet another embodiment, the base has a cavity that houses the integrated display system. In another embodiment, the cavity can also have compartments for one or more power sources.

[0026] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optical instrument having a body with direct viewing optics for viewing an image of an external scene and a base with an integrated display system that generates an image using an active display and directs the image so that the generated image and an image of the external scene can be viewed simultaneously and superimposed.

[0027] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument comprising: a body having a main optical system consisting of an objective lens system that focuses an image from a target onto a first focal plane (hereinafter referred to as the "FFP target image"), a beam combiner positioned between the objective lens system and the FFP target image, followed by an erecting lens system that inverts and focuses the FFP target image onto a second focal plane (hereinafter referred to as the "SFP target image"), and finally an eyepiece lens system that collimates the SFP target image so that it can be viewed by the human eye; and a base having a cavity and coupled to the bottom of the body, with an integrated display system for generating an image and directing the generated image so that the generated image and an image of an external scene can be simultaneously viewed superimposed on each other at the first focal plane of the body.

[0028] In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument having a body with an optical system for observing an external scene and a base with an active display for generating an image, the generated image being combined into an image of the external scene at a first focal plane of the optical system.

[0029] In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument having a main body with an optical system for observing an external scene, and a base coupled to the bottom of the main body, the base comprising a cavity having an active display for generating an image, the generated image being combined into an image of the external scene at a first focal plane of the optical system.

[0030] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument having a body with a first optical system for observing an external image and a second optical system consisting of a digital display mounted within a housing, the housing being parallel to the first optical system, and the image of the second optical system being combined with the image of the first optical system at a first focal plane of the observation optical instrument. In one embodiment, the second optical system comprises an active display. In yet another embodiment, the second optical system comprises a lens system that collects light from the active display.

[0031] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument having a main body with a first optical system for observing an external image, and a housing coupled to the main body with an integrated display system for generating an image, the image of the integrated display system being combined with the image of the first optical system at a first focal plane of the optical instrument.

[0032] In one embodiment, the integrated display system comprises an active display, concentrator optics, and reflective surfaces or materials, including, but not limited to, mirrors. In one embodiment, the active display can generate images including, but not limited to, text, alphanumeric characters, graphics, symbols, and / or video footage, icons, etc., including an active target reticle, corrective aimpoints, range measurements, and wind information.

[0033] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument comprising an optical system configured to define a first focal plane, an active display for generating an image and a reflective material for directing the image to the first focal plane, and one or more adjustment mechanisms for performing one or more of the following: (a) moving the active display relative to the reflective material; and (b) moving the reflective material relative to the active display.

[0034] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a housing coupled to a main body of a viewing optical instrument, the housing containing a display for generating an image that can be introduced into a first focal plane of the main body, such that the display image on the first focal plane is not coupled to the movement of the erecting tube.

[0035] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument comprising a main body with an optical system for observing an external scene and a base coupled to a bottom of the main body, the base having an active display for generating an image, the generated image being combined into an image of the external scene at a first focal plane of the optical system, a sensor for detecting the presence of a user, and a processor in communication with the sensor capable of controlling the power state of the observation optical instrument.

[0036] In one embodiment, the active display is configured to emit light in a direction substantially parallel to the optical axis of the viewing optics.

[0037] In one embodiment, the active display is configured to emit light in a direction substantially perpendicular to the optical axis of the viewing optics.

[0038] In one embodiment, the mirror is oriented at an angle of approximately 45° relative to the display's emitted light.

[0039] In one embodiment, the display and mirror are positioned on a common side of the main body of the viewing optics.

[0040] In one embodiment, the display and mirror are positioned on opposite sides of the main body of the viewing optics.

[0041] In one embodiment, the display and mirror are located on a common side of a base that is coupled to the main body of the viewing optics.

[0042] In one embodiment, the display and mirror are positioned on opposite sides of a base coupled to the main body of the viewing optics.

[0043] In one embodiment, the mirror is located on the objective side of a base coupled to the main body of the viewing optics.

[0044] In one embodiment, the active display is located on the eyepiece side of a base coupled to the main body of the viewing optics.

[0045] In one embodiment, the methods and apparatus disclosed herein allow an end user to easily distinguish digital overlays from daytime optical scenes.

[0046] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic having both an analog reticle and a digital reticle visible to a user when looking through the viewing optic.

[0047] In one embodiment, the viewing optics are used in conjunction with a firearm. In one embodiment, the viewing optics is a riflescope. In one embodiment, the riflescope can be used with an external laser rangefinder with ballistic calculation capabilities. In one embodiment, the riflescope is rigidly mounted to the firearm and the laser rangefinder is mounted to either the firearm or the riflescope.

[0048] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an aiming system including a riflescope having a main body with a first optical viewing system for observing an external scene, a base with an active display for generating an image, the base coupled to the bottom of the main body, and further wherein the generated image and an image of the external scene are combined at a first focal plane of the optical system, a laser rangefinder for measuring the distance to a target, and components for calculating a trajectory for hitting the target. In one embodiment, an integrated display system can digitally display the calculated information and a correct aim point corresponding to the impact point of the rifle bullet, and the digitally displayed aim point and external scene are superimposed on the first focal plane of the riflescope.

[0049] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an aiming system comprising: a main body with a first optical viewing system for observing an external scene; a base having an active display for generating an image, the base coupled to a bottom of the main body, and further wherein the generated image and an image of the external scene are combined at a first focal plane of the optical system; a laser rangefinder for measuring a distance to a target; and components located on the main body of the riflescope for calculating a trajectory for hitting the target.

[0050] In another embodiment, the methods and apparatus disclosed herein allow for the maximum range of vertical adjustment of the active reticle in a riflescope by specifically orienting the device responsible for emitting the magnified image.

[0051] In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for aligning the tilt of a vertical axis of a microdisplay with the vertical axis of a reticle in an optical system of a viewing optics, which is compact, simple and accurate.

[0052] In one embodiment, the methods and apparatus disclosed herein allow for seamless integration of processed digital imagery into daytime visible optics.

[0053] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a first focal plane (FFP) integrated active display that utilizes an axially oriented data or communication port, thereby maintaining a minimal physical top-down profile.

[0054] An advantage of the apparatus and method disclosed herein is that it provides many advanced targeting capabilities while maintaining a direct view of the target scene.

[0055] An advantage of the apparatus and method disclosed herein is that the image generated from the integrated display system is combined with an external image from the target in front of the first focal plane and then focused onto the first focal plane, so that the target image and the image generated from the integrated display system do not move relative to each other.

[0056] An advantage of the apparatus and method disclosed herein is that by introducing the image generated from the active display into the first focal plane of the optical system, the generated image can be made insensitive to any changes in turret adjustment or position of the erection system.

[0057] An advantage of the apparatus and methods disclosed herein is that by superimposing the generated image of the active display onto the first focal plane, the user can use a conventional glass-etched reticle for aiming purposes if the electronics fail or run out of power, which is an important fail-safe that the apparatus and methods disclosed herein provide.

[0058] An advantage of the apparatus and method disclosed herein is that by displaying the image generated from the integrated display system on a first focal plane, the location of the electronic aimpoint remains accurate relative to the target regardless of the current magnification setting or other adjustments of the riflescope.

[0059] Any feature, component, step or aspect of one embodiment described herein may be combined with any feature, component, step or aspect of other embodiments without limitation. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0060] [Figure 1A] 1 is a schematic diagram showing parts of a riflescope. [Figure 1B] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating additional parts and components of a viewing optics according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1C] 1C is a cross-sectional view of the viewing optic of FIG. 1B showing movable optical elements within the optic body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1D] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a viewing optics showing a parallax adjustment knob according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1E] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an erection system in an optical element of an observation optical instrument according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a side view of a riflescope having a main body and a base coupled to the main body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a viewing optics comprising a main body with a beam combiner disposed between an objective lens assembly and a first focal plane according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4]1 is a representative schematic diagram depicting a main body of a longitudinally split viewing optic according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic diagram of a conventional parallax adjustment knob with a cam pin that rests within a cam groove in the parallax knob. [Figure 5B] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic diagram of a conventional parallax adjustment knob showing the cam pins connecting aspects of the focus cell to the parallax knob. [Figure 5C] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic diagram of a parallax adjustment system showing connecting rods that can be used for parallax adjustment and in which the focus cell (parallax lens) has been moved to allow the space of the beam combiner (prism lens) to be positioned in front of the first focal plane in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5D] FIG. 10 is a representative schematic diagram of a parallax adjustment system showing one end of a connecting rod having a cam pin placed in a cam groove of a parallax adjustment knob assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5E] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic diagram of a parallax adjustment system having a connecting rod with one end connected to a focus cell and the other end connected to a cam pin, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5F] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic diagram of a parallax adjustment system having a connecting rod connected at one end to a focus cell and at the other end to a cam pin that rests in a cam groove on a parallax adjustment knob, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a representative schematic diagram illustrating an outer upright sleeve with a potentiometer wiper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic diagram illustrating placement of a membrane potentiometer on the main body of a riflescope according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic diagram showing an outer erection sleeve with a potentiometer wiper and a membrane potentiometer mounted on the main body of a riflescope according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of various components of a viewing optics according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a top view of a riflescope having a main body and a base according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a side view of a portion of a riflescope having a main body and a base according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a schematic cutaway side view of a riflescope having a main body with a glass-etched reticle and a base with an integrated viewing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic diagram showing a cutaway side view of an integrated display system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] 1 is a schematic cutaway side view of a main body of a viewing optic and a base with an integrated display system coupled to at least a portion of the main body, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 15] 1 is a representative diagram of an integrated display system for imaging a digital display onto a first focal plane of the optical system of the main body of the viewing optics, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 16] 1 is a schematic diagram of a main body of a viewing optic and a base with an integrated display system in which an active display is positioned in a portion of the base closest to the objective lens assembly compared to the eyepiece lens assembly of the main body of the viewing optic, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] 1 is a schematic diagram of a main body of a viewing optic and a base with an integrated display system in which an active display is positioned in a portion of the base closest to the eyepiece assembly compared to the objective lens assembly of the main body of the viewing optic, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic diagram illustrating the aspect ratio of a microdisplay according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 illustrates an integrated display system with a 530 nm to 570 nm digital display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary image that can be displayed on a 530 nm to 570 nm digital display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 illustrates an integrated display system with an AMOLED digital display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary image that can be displayed on an AMOLED digital display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] 1 is a cutaway, representative schematic side view showing an active display and an optical system having an inner lens cell and an outer lens cell, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a cutaway side view of an integrated display system having concentrator optics installed in viewing optics according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic top view of an integrated display system having an active display, a concentrator optical system with an inner cell and an outer cell, a mirror, and a screw for adjusting the tilt of the active display, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic diagram of a rear cutaway view of an integrated display system having an active display, a concentrator optical system with an inner cell and an outer cell, a mirror, and a screw for adjusting the tilt of the active display, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27] FIG. 2 is a representative cutaway side view showing a microdisplay, inner and outer lens cells, and a spring positioned between the inner and outer cells, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 28A] FIG. 1 is a representative diagram of an integrated display system showing a surface that can be used to adjust the position of the inner lens cells and eliminate parallax error, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 28B] FIG. 1 is a representative diagram of an integrated display system showing a lens system in one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a representative cutaway side view of an integrated display system having a microdisplay, optics, and a mirror with tilt adjustment capabilities installed in a viewing optics according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 30]FIG. 1 is a representative schematic left side view of a battery compartment within a base coupleable to a main body of a riflescope, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 31] FIG. 10 is a representative schematic right side view of an integrated battery compartment within a base coupleable to a main body of a riflescope, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 32] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic top view of an integrated battery compartment in a base coupleable to a main body of a riflescope, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 33] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic side view of a base with a battery compartment that can be used to couple to a Picatinny mount, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 34] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic front view of a cantilevered Picatinny mount coupled to a battery compartment of a base, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 35] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic top view of a cantilevered Picatinny mount coupled to a battery compartment of a base, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 36] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic side profile view of a riflescope with a main body and a base having axially oriented data / communication connections according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 37] 1 is a representative schematic diagram of a riflescope with a main body and a base having one or more connection interfaces for communicating with a thermal imaging unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 38] FIG. 1 is a rear left side view of an embodiment of a riflescope with a laser rangefinder in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 39] FIG. 1 is a rear right side view of an embodiment of a riflescope with a laser rangefinder in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 40] FIG. 1 is a rear right side view of an embodiment of a riflescope with a laser rangefinder in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 41] FIG. 1 is a front left side view of an embodiment of a riflescope with a laser rangefinder in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; [Figure 42] FIG. 1 is a front right side view of an embodiment of a riflescope with a laser rangefinder in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 43] FIG. 1 is a left side view of an embodiment of a riflescope with a laser rangefinder in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 44] FIG. 1 is a right side view of an embodiment of a riflescope with a laser rangefinder in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 45] FIG. 1 is a right side view of an embodiment of a riflescope in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 46] FIG. 1 is a top side view of an embodiment of a riflescope in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 47] FIG. 1 is a right side view of an embodiment of a riflescope with a laser rangefinder in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 48] FIG. 1 is a top side view of an embodiment of a riflescope with a laser rangefinder in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 49] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic diagram of a holographic waveguide configuration in which a digital representation is coupled into the waveguide and sent out of a second hologram that focuses the light to a predetermined focal plane, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 50] 1 is a representative schematic diagram of an alternative configuration of viewing optics, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 51] 1 is a representative schematic diagram of an alternative configuration of viewing optics, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 52] 1 is a representative schematic diagram of an alternative configuration of viewing optics, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 53] A representative diagram of a 1x reticle showing both passive (fixed or etched) reticle features and marks or features from the active display. [Figure 54] A representative diagram of an 8x reticle showing both passive (fixed or etched) reticle features and marks or features from the active display. [Figure 55] A representative diagram of an 8x reticle showing both passive (fixed or etched) reticle features and marks or features from the active display, including distance measurements and wind holdover marks. [Figure 56] A representative view of a reticle at 8x magnification showing both passive (fixed or etched) reticle features and marks or features from the active display, including distance measurements and wind holdover marks. [Figure 57] FIG. 1 is a representative diagram of a reticle with standard etch and fill features, along with an image generated from a digital display. [Figure 58] FIG. 1 is a representative diagram of a BDC reticle with distance markers. [Figure 59] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic depicting the effect of cant on shooting. [Figure 60] FIG. 1 is a representative schematic diagram of a digital or active display capable of correcting cant. [Figure 61] A representative view of a reticle with a target ranged to 500 yards, showing real-time drop position and windhold relative to 500 yards. [Figure 62] A representative view of a reticle with a target ranged to 1000 yards, showing real-time drop position and windhold relative to 1000 yards. [Figure 63] A representative wide-angle view of the reticle at low magnification with fewer rows of dots below the horizontal crosshairs. [Figure 64] A representative view of the central portion of the reticle at higher magnification with a smaller central grid. [Figure 65] A typical side view of a 1-8x active reticle riflescope (the magnification adjustment ring is visible on the right side of the image). [Figure 66]A representative side view of a 1-8x active reticle riflescope with the body of the scope hidden, revealing the outer cam sleeve (which rotates with the magnification adjustment ring, thereby changing the magnification setting). [Figure 67] FIG. 1 is a representative side view of the base of a viewing optic with a printed circuit board containing a photosensor and LEDs used to measure the position of a reflective gradient material attached to an outer cam sleeve (the outer cam sleeve and associated optics are hidden in this image). [Figure 68] FIG. 1 is a representative exploded view of a photosensor and LED, with a simulated viewing cone drawn to illustrate the light acceptance angle relative to the photosensor. [Figure 69] 1 is a representative image of a photosensor and LED in conjunction with a reflective, tilted strip mounted on an outer cam sleeve to measure the magnification setting of a viewing optic. (Note that although this illustration shows the tilted strip with four specific sections of different reflectivity, each associated with an optical magnification setting, the strip can vary infinitely in reflectivity.) [Figure 70] 1 is a representative image of a photosensor and LED in conjunction with a reflective, tilted strip mounted on an outer cam sleeve to measure the magnification setting of a viewing optics (note that while this illustration shows the tilted strip with four specific sections of different reflectivity, each associated with an optical magnification setting, the strip can vary in reflectivity infinitely). [Figure 71] 1 is a representative schematic diagram of a viewing optics having a beam combiner within a main body with a photosensor and optical filter coupled to the beam combiner. [Figure 72] A representative view of the rear of the viewing optics showing the window, proximity sensor, and carrier milled into the base coupled to the main body of the viewing optics (all positioned below the eyepiece). [Figure 73] 1 is a representative view of a viewing optic with a base having a power saving system and mounted on a rifle. [Figure 74] 1 is a representative view of a viewing optic with a base having a power saving system and mounted on a rifle. [Figure 75] 1 is a representative schematic diagram of a viewing optic in which a power pin protrudes through a base coupled to the main body of the viewing optic. [Figure 76] 1 is a representative schematic diagram of a viewing optic in which a power pin protrudes through a base coupled to the main body of the viewing optic. [Figure 77] 1 is a representative side profile of a base of a viewing optic showing power pins protruding through the base. [Figure 78] A representative view of a side profile with the base of the viewing optics made transparent to show the power pins attached to the PCB. [Figure 79] FIG. 1 is a representative view of the top of a remote keypad for communicating with the viewing optics. [Figure 80] FIG. 1 is a representative side profile view of a remote keypad showing the power pin protruding through the internal recoil lug. [Figure 81] A representative bottom view showing two power pins protruding through the internal recoil lug. [Figure 82] FIG. 10 is a representative bottom view with the cover made transparent to show the PCB inside the remote keypad body. [Figure 83] FIG. 1 is a representative diagram of a three-button keypad for communicating with the viewing optics disclosed herein. [Figure 84] FIG. 1 is a representative diagram of a viewing optics with a mechanical switch to change the function of a remote keypad for communicating with the viewing optics. [Figure 85] 1 is a representative diagram of a display system for a viewing optics having a first active display and a second active display. [Figure 86] 1 is a representative view of an image from an active display with high bit depth and high resolution. [Figure 87]1 is a representative view of an image from an active display having low bit depth and low resolution. [Figure 88] FIG. 1 is a representative diagram of a printed circuit board with photodetector, LED and microprocessor functionality. [Figure 89] A representative diagram of a turret with a reflective, tilted strip attached to the outer turret sleeve to measure turret position (note that while this diagram shows the tilted strip with four specific sections of different reflectivity, the strip can vary infinitely in reflectivity). [Figure 90] Schematic diagram of the near-zero and far-zero principle. [Figure 91] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a follower with a magnet and magazine used as components of a bullet counter system according to embodiments disclosed herein; [Figure 92] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a follower, a magazine, and sensors on a circuit arranged to detect a magnetic field according to embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 93A] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a bullet counter system mounted to the lower receiver of an M4 firearm, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, with the follower elevated within the magazine to indicate approximately eight rounds remaining. [Figure 93B] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a bullet counter system mounted to the lower receiver of an M4 firearm, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, with the follower elevated within the magazine to indicate approximately four rounds remaining. [Figure 93C] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a bullet counter system mounted to the lower receiver of an M4 firearm according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, with the follower rising within a magazine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, indicating that zero rounds remain in the magazine. [Figure 94A] FIG. 10 is a representative diagram of another embodiment of a bullet counter system, where the follower has a magnet that interacts with ferrous wire in or on the wall of the magazine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 94B]FIG. 10 is a representative diagram of another embodiment of a bullet counter system, where the follower has a magnet that interacts with ferrous wire in or on the wall of the magazine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 95] 1 is a representative photograph of a viewing optic with an integrated display system and bullet counter system on a firearm in a conventional layout, the integrated display system and bullet counter system communicating via a cable according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 96] 1 is a representative photograph of a viewing optic with an integrated display system and bullet counter system on a firearm with a bullpup layout, the integrated display system and bullet counter system communicating via a cable according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 97] 1 is a representative diagram showing multiple positions of an IR laser mounted in the viewing optics disclosed herein. [Figure 98] A representative photograph of a riflescope showing the view through the objective lens of the scope. [Figure 99] 1 is a representative photograph of a riflescope showing the left viewpoint of the riflescope (right and left are determined from the user's viewpoint looking through the eyepiece element). [Figure 100] 1 is a representative photograph of a riflescope showing the right viewpoint of the riflescope (right and left are determined from the user's viewpoint looking through the eyepiece elements). [Figure 101] A typical photograph of a riflescope showing the view through the eyepiece system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0061] The presently disclosed apparatus and methods will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. However, the presently disclosed apparatus and methods may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0062] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the feature and / or functionality sets can be readily adapted in the context of stand-alone weapon sights, front-mounted or rear-mounted clip-on weapon sights, and other replacements for field-deployed optical weapon sights. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various combinations of features and functionality can be incorporated into add-on modules for retrofitting any type of existing fixed or adjustable weapon sight.

[0063] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it will be understood that the element or layer is directly on, or can be directly connected to or coupled to, the other element or layer. Alternatively, intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present.

[0064] Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0065] Although terms such as first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, and / or sections, it will be understood that these elements, components, regions, and / or sections are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, or section from another element, component, region, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, or section discussed below could be referred to as a second element, component, region, or section without departing from this disclosure.

[0066] Spatially relative terms such as "below," "below," "lower," "above," and "upper" may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element(s) or feature(s) as shown in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass various orientations of the device during use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, elements described as being "below" or "below" the other element or feature would then be oriented "above" the other element or feature. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device can be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein can be interpreted accordingly.

[0067] I. Definition Numerical ranges in this disclosure are approximate and thus may include values ​​outside the range unless otherwise indicated. Numerical ranges include all values ​​from the lower limit to the upper limit, inclusive, in increments of one unit, provided that there is a separation of at least two units between any lower limit and any upper limit. As an example, if a compositional, physical, or other property, such as molecular weight, viscosity, etc., ranges from 100 to 1000, all individual values ​​such as 100, 101, 102, etc., as well as subranges such as 100 to 144, 155 to 170, 197 to 200, etc., are expressly recited. For ranges containing values ​​less than 1 or containing decimals greater than 1 (e.g., 1.1, 1.5, etc.), one unit is considered to be 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, or 0.1, as appropriate. In ranges containing single digit numbers less than 10 (e.g., 1 to 5), 1 unit is typically considered to be 0.1. These are merely examples of what is specifically intended, and all possible combinations of numerical values ​​between the lowest and highest values ​​listed shall be considered to be expressly set forth in this disclosure. Numerical ranges for distances from a user of a device to a target are provided, among other things, within this disclosure.

[0068] The term "and / or" as used herein in phrases such as "A and / or B" is intended to include both A and B; A or B; A alone; and B alone. Similarly, the term "and / or" as used in phrases such as "A, B, and / or C" is intended to include each of the following embodiments: A, B, and C; A, B, or C; A or C; A or B; B or C; A and C; A and B; B and C; A alone; B alone; and C alone.

[0069] As used herein, "active display" includes image-generating pixel modulation. In one embodiment, the active display is an emissive active display. Emissive active displays, including but not limited to organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) and light-emitting diodes (LEDs), are characterized by having an image and light source within a single device; therefore, no external light source is required. This minimizes system size and power consumption while providing excellent contrast and color space. OLEDs are made from ultrathin organic semiconductor layers that light up when connected to a voltage (charge carriers are injected, and brightness is primarily proportional to the forward current). The main layer comprises multiple organic materials, in sequence (e.g., charge transport layers, blocking layers, and emissive layers, each a few nanometers thick), interposed between an anode and a cathode. The terms "active display," "digital display," and "microdisplay" are used interchangeably.

[0070] As used herein, "ammunition status" can refer to all or one or more of the following: the number of bullets in the magazine, whether a bullet is in the chamber, and whether a bullet is in the magazine but not the chamber.

[0071] As used herein, the term "bullpup" refers to a firearm whose action and magazine are behind the trigger. This creates a shorter weapon compared to a rifle with the same size barrel. This means that the benefits of a longer barrel, such as muzzle velocity and accuracy, are maintained while reducing the weapon's overall size and weight.

[0072] As used herein, an "erection sleeve" is a protrusion from an erection lens mount that engages with a slot in the erection tube and / or cam tube or serves a similar purpose. It may be integral with the mount or detachable.

[0073] As used herein, an "erection tube" is any structure or device having an opening for receiving an erection lens mount.

[0074] As used herein, a "firearm" is a handheld, often barreled weapon that fires one or more projectiles propelled by the action of explosive force. As used herein, the term "firearm" includes handguns, long guns, rifles, shotguns, carbines, automatic weapons, semi-automatic weapons, machine guns, light machine guns, automatic rifles, and assault rifles.

[0075] As used herein, a "Hall Effect sensor" is a device used to measure the magnitude of a magnetic field. The output voltage is directly proportional to the strength of the magnetic field passing through it. Hall Effect sensors are used in proximity sensing, positioning, speed detection, and sensing applications.

[0076] As used herein, an "integrated display system" refers to a system for generating an image. In one embodiment, the integrated display system includes an active display. In one embodiment, the integrated display system includes an active display and concentrator optics. In yet another embodiment, the integrated display system includes an active display, concentrator optics, and a reflective surface.

[0077] In one embodiment, an integrated display system may be used to generate a digital image on an active display and direct the digital image into a first focal plane of an optical system for simultaneous viewing of the digital image and an image of an external scene. As used herein, "aiming system" refers to one or more optical devices and other systems that assist a person in aiming a firearm or other implement.

[0078] As used herein, a "mag well" or "magwell" acts as a funnel to guide the magazine into position.

[0079] As used herein, the term "mark" can include any of a variety of visually perceptible lines, circles, dots, crosshairs, horseshoe patterns, geometric shapes, symbols, numbers, letters, signs, or symbols.

[0080] As used herein, the term "passive reticle" refers to a reticle with fixed markings that cannot be altered by the user. A typical example of a passive reticle is an etch-and-fill reticle. Another example is a holographic reticle, where the markings cannot be altered by the user. A passive reticle can be located in the first focal plane, the second focal plane, or both the first and second focal planes.

[0081] As used herein, the term "receiver" refers to the part or frame of a firearm that integrates other components by providing a housing for the internal working components, such as the hammer, bolt or breechblock, firing pin, extractor, and trigger mechanism, and has a threaded interface for attaching ("receiving") components, such as the barrel, stock, and action parts. Receivers are often made of forged, machined, or stamped steel or aluminum, and in addition to these traditional materials, modern science and engineering have introduced polymers and sintered metal powders into receiver construction.

[0082] As used herein, the terms "bullet" and "cartridge" are used interchangeably.

[0083] As used herein, the term "sight optics" refers to devices used by a shooter or observer to select, identify, or monitor a target. "Sight optics" may rely on observation of the target or radiation, including, for example, infrared (IR), ultraviolet (UV), radar, thermal, microwave, or magnetic imaging; x-rays, gamma rays, isotopic radiation, and particle radiation; night vision; ultrasound; pulsed sound; sonar; seismic vibrations; vibration receptors, including magnetic resonance; gravity receptors; broadcast frequencies, including radio waves; television and cellular receptors; or other images of the target. The image of the target presented to the shooter by the "sight optics" device may be unaltered or may be enhanced, for example, by magnification, amplification, subtraction, superposition, filtering, stabilization, template matching, or other means. A target selected, identified, or monitored by the "sighting optics" can be within the shooter's line of sight, out of the shooter's line of sight, or the shooter's line of sight can be obstructed while the target acquisition device presents a focused image of the target to the shooter. The target image acquired by the "sighting optics" can be, for example, analog or digital, and can be shared, saved, stored, or transmitted within a network of one or more shooters or observers, for example, by video, physical cable or wire, IR, radio waves, cellular connection, laser pulse, optical, 802.11b, or other wireless transmission using protocols such as html, SML, SOAP, X.25, SNA, Bluetooth™, serial, USB, or other suitable image distribution method. The term "sighting optics" is used interchangeably with "optical sight."

[0084] As used herein, the term "external scene" refers to a real-world scene that includes, but is not limited to, a target.

[0085] As used herein, the term "shooter" refers to either the operator firing the shot or an individual observing the shot in conjunction with the operator firing the shot.

[0086] II. Optical observation equipment FIG. 1A illustrates a conventional design for a riflescope, a representative example of a viewing optic. FIG. 1B illustrates an exemplary viewing optic 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 1B illustrates a riflescope. More specifically, the riflescope 10 has a body 38 that encloses a movable optical element 15. The body 38 is an elongated tube that tapers from a larger opening at its front 40 to a smaller opening at its rear 42. An eyepiece 56 is mounted to the rear of the scope body, and an objective lens 54 is mounted to the front of the scope body. The central axis of the movable optical element defines the optical axis 44 of the riflescope.

[0087] The elevation turret 12 and windage turret 48 are two dials often found on the exterior center of the body 38. They are incrementally marked by indicia 20 on their perimeter 11 and are used to adjust the elevation and windage of the movable optical element for point of impact changes. These dials protrude from a turret housing 50. The turrets are oriented so that the elevation turret's axis of rotation 46 is perpendicular to the windage turret's axis of rotation 52.

[0088] FIG. 1C shows a cross-sectional view of the aiming device of FIG. 1B, including the basic components of optical system 14 and movable optical element 15. As shown in FIG. 1C, optical system 14 includes objective lens system 16, erector system 25, and eyepiece lens system 18. While FIG. 1C shows a riflescope having a body 38, optical system 14 can be used in other types of aiming devices as well. Erection system 25 can be included within movable optical element 15. Erection system 25 can include a variable magnification lens element or zoom element 25A. In FIG. 1C, movable optical element 15 also includes first focal plane reticle 55 and second focal plane reticle 57, along with condenser 22. In use, adjustment of turret assembly 28 and turret screw 29 effects adjustment of movable optical element 15.

[0089] The movable optical element 15 is adjusted by rotating the turret assembly 28 one or more clicks. As the turret rotates, the turret screw 29 moves in or out of the scope, which pushes the erector tube. The erector tube is spring-loaded so that as the turret screw is adjusted, it positions the erector tube against its bottom surface. The erector tube provides a smaller optical view of the overall image. As the erector tube is adjusted, the position of the reticle is changed relative to the image.

[0090] The reticle is a circular, planar, or flat, transparent panel or disk mounted within the scope body in perpendicular relationship to the optical axis or line of sight through the scope, positioned between the objective lens element 54 and the erecting lens element, at a location that is typically considered the front focal plane of the optical system within the housing. In one embodiment, the reticle includes fine etched lines or hairline markings with central vertical and horizontal hairlines that intersect orthogonally or perpendicularly at a center point.

[0091] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1D , the viewing optics can have a parallax adjustment knob 70 or focus knob. Parallax occurs when the optical plane of the target image is not coplanar with the optical plane of the reticle image. As a result of the offset between the two optical planes, the reticle may appear to move relative to the target as the shooter moves their eyes around the reticle center. This parallax error can result in a shift in the point of impact upon firing. Parallax adjustment in the viewing optics allows the shooter to eliminate optical errors at different distances by allowing the optical system to adjust so that the target image and the reticle image appear in the same optical plane. Parallax correction does not change the focus of the reticle or the image; it simply moves the plane at which these two objects are in focus so that they share the same plane (coincide).

[0092] As shown in FIG. 1D, the viewing optics can have a side wheel attached to a rotatable parallax adjustment knob 70. The larger diameter of the side wheel provides more space for applied markers, such as range markers, and is easier for the shooter to rotate and read during use. The larger diameter of the side wheel helps improve the accuracy and resolution of the range markers.

[0093] 1E shows a close-up of optical system 14 in cross section, illustrating how light rays travel through optical system 14. It is well known in the art that optical system 14 can have additional optical components, such as condenser 22, and that certain components, such as objective system 16, erector system 25, and eyepiece system 18, can themselves have multiple components or lenses.

[0094] In one embodiment, the viewing optics can have a focus cell with one or more adjustable lenses to provide parallax adjustment, in one embodiment, the one or more adjustable lenses are one or more parallax lenses.

[0095] In one embodiment, a focusing lens is positioned between the eyepiece and the objective lens, the relative distance between the focusing lens and the objective lens being adjustable to provide parallax adjustment. Additionally, an erecting lens is positioned between the eyepiece and the focusing lens, the relative distance between the erecting lens and the objective lens being adjustable to provide magnification adjustment.

[0096] III. Observation optics with active displays In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic having an active display that generates a digital image and projects the digital image onto a first focal plane of the viewing optic. In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic having an analog reticle and a digital image, including but not limited to a digital reticle, that is visible to a user when looking through the viewing optic. In one embodiment, the viewing optic can be used with an external laser rangefinder with ballistic calculation capabilities.

[0097] In one embodiment, the viewing optics includes a movable erection tube with an analog or glass-etched reticle attached to the erection tube so that the analog or glass-etched reticle moves in conjunction with the erection tube. In one embodiment, the digitally implemented reticle does not move in conjunction with the erection tube. Thus, the digital reticle is accurate regardless of the position of the turret or erection tube.

[0098] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic with a digital display that can be introduced into a first focal plane of the viewing optic such that the image of the digital display on the first focal plane is not tied to movement of the erector tube. In one embodiment, the display can provide a user with an accurate ballistic aim hold point regardless of the position of the riflescope erector tube / turret.

[0099] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic with an aim point that is independent of the position of the erector tube and / or the position of the turret of the viewing optic. In one embodiment, if the ballistically determined aim point is outside the field of view of the erector unit, the turret can be rotated to bring the ballistically determined aim point into the field of view.

[0100] In one embodiment, the observation optical instrument comprises a main optical system consisting of an objective lens system that focuses an image from the target onto a first focal plane (hereinafter referred to as the "FFP target image"), followed by an erecting lens system that inverts the FFP target image and focuses it onto a second focal plane (hereinafter referred to as the "SFP target image"), a beam combiner positioned between the objective lens system and the FFP target image, and an eyepiece lens system that collimates the SFP target image so that it can be observed by the human eye, and a second optical system.

[0101] In one embodiment, the second optical system includes an active display and a lens system that collects light from the active display. The image from the digital display is directed to a beam combiner so that the digital image and the target image from the objective lens system can be combined at a first focal plane and viewed simultaneously. In one embodiment, the second optical system can include reflective materials, including but not limited to mirrors.

[0102] Referring to the above description, the digital display is introduced into the main optical system between the objective lens system and the first focal plane and then focused onto the first focal plane. At the first focal plane, both the digital image from the digital display and the analog / glass-etched reticle attached to the erecting lens system share the same plane. However, the analog reticle is attached to a movable erecting lens system, whereas the image from the digital display is not. Therefore, when the erecting lens system is moved, the analog reticle moves, but the digital image remains stationary.

[0103] In one embodiment, the sighting optics may be rigidly mounted to the firearm. In another embodiment, a laser range finder may be mounted to either the firearm or the sighting optics. The laser range finder measures the distance to a target, calculates the ballistic trajectory to hit the target, and provides this information to an active display to display the precise aim point along with the rifle bullet's point of impact.

[0104] Because the laser rangefinder is rigidly mounted to the viewing optics and the aim point does not move, it is important that the digital image remain stationary. This allows the digital laser designator to initially correspond to the laser, and then the digital display to be digitally adjusted so that the two always remain aligned, no matter how the erector lens system is moved.

[0105] Additionally, because the firearm barrel is rigidly mounted to the viewing optics, the aim point of the barrel does not change relative to the digital display, allowing the digital aim point to initially correspond to the firearm barrel at the initial "sight-in" distance, and then the digital display to be digitally adjusted so that the two always remain aligned.

[0106] If it becomes necessary to shoot at a distance different from the initial sight-in distance, the laser rangefinder can measure the distance and then perform ballistic calculations to determine a new location for the aim point. Since this new aim point location will always be relative to the initial sight-in distance, the riflescope simply adjusts the aim point on the digital display to correspond to the new aim point.

[0107] A side benefit of this system is that because the digital aim point is stationary, the accuracy of the turret, which adjusts the position of the erector tube using a reticle with regularly spaced marks, can be easily tested on the viewing optics. As the erector tube moves, the reticle can be measured against the stationary digital aim point to verify that the dial adjustments on the turret match the movement measured between the digital aim point and the reticle mounted on the erector lens system.

[0108] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a display system for a viewing optics, comprising a first active display configured to generate a first image and a second active display configured to generate a second image, the first and second active displays being perpendicular to each other, and either the first image or the second image being projected onto a first focal plane of the viewing optics. In one embodiment, the display system further comprises an optical system having the first focal plane and a first beam combiner.

[0109] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a display system comprising a first active display configured to generate an image, a second active display configured to generate a second image, and a beam combiner positioned between the first and second active displays and configured to combine the first and second images to generate a combined image, where the combined image is projected onto a first focal plane of viewing optics. In one embodiment, the display system further comprises a concentrator lens system. In yet another embodiment, the display system comprises a reflective material.

[0110] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a display system for an observation optical instrument, comprising a first active display for generating a first image and a second active display for generating a second image, the first active display and the second active display being perpendicular to each other, and the first image or the second image being directed to a beam combiner for simultaneous superimposed observation with an image of an external scene at a first focal plane of the observation optical instrument.

[0111] In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a display system comprising a first active display configured to generate a first image, a second active display configured to generate a second image, and a beam combiner positioned between the first and second active displays and configured to combine the first and second images to generate a combined image, which is directed to an additional beam combiner for simultaneous superimposed viewing with an image of an external scene at a first focal plane of viewing optics. In one embodiment, the display system further comprises a condenser lens system. In yet another embodiment, the display system comprises a reflective material for directing the combined image to the additional beam combiner.

[0112] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method of viewing with observation optics, including generating a first image using a first active display, generating a second image using a second active display, combining the first and second images using a beam combiner to generate a combined image, and projecting the combined image onto a first focal plane of the observation optics.

[0113] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method of viewing with observation optics, including generating a first image using a first active display, generating a second image using a second active display, combining the first and second images using a beam combiner to generate a combined image, and directing the combined image to an additional, separate beam combiner to view the combined image and an image of an external scene at a first focal plane of the observation optics.

[0114] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method of viewing with viewing optics, the method comprising: viewing a field of view of an external scene with viewing optics having a first focal plane and positioned along a viewing optical axis, generating a first image with a first active display, generating a second image with a second active display, combining the first image and the second image with a beam combiner to generate a combined image, and projecting the combined image onto the first focal plane of the viewing optics. In one embodiment, the step of projecting the combined image onto the first focal plane of the viewing optics uses a reflective material.

[0115] Figure 85 is a representative schematic diagram of a display system 8500 having multiple active displays. The display system 8500 includes a first active display 8507 configured to generate a first image in a direction substantially parallel to the optical axis of the observation optics. The display system further includes a second active display 8509 configured to generate an image in a direction substantially perpendicular to the optical axis of the observation optics. The display system further includes a beam combiner 8511 configured to combine the images generated from the first active display 8507 and the second active display 8509. As shown in Figure 85, the first active display 8507 is positioned to the left of the beam combiner 8511, and the second active display 8509 is positioned above the beam combiner.

[0116] The display system further includes a condenser lens system 8513 positioned to the right of the beam combiner 8511. The display system also includes a reflective material 8515 positioned to the right of the condenser lens system 8513.

[0117] In one embodiment, first active display 8507 and second active display 8509 generate a first image and a second image, respectively, which are directed to beam combiner 8511. Beam combiner 8511 is configured to combine the first and second images into a combined image. The combined image is directed to concentrator lens system 8513 and optionally reflective material 8515.

[0118] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optical instrument having a display system with one or more active displays. In one embodiment, the viewing optical instrument has a display system with a first active display configured to generate a first image and a second active display configured to generate a second image. In one embodiment, the first active display and the second active display are parallel to each other. In yet another embodiment, the first active display is perpendicular to the second active display.

[0119] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic with multiple displays combined with a passive aiming picture to provide a user with clear resolution and bright images regardless of time or lighting conditions. In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic with a combination of thermal and night vision technologies used in tandem to optimize the aiming picture in all environments and scenarios.

[0120] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic having an integrated display system with brightness and transparency levels suitable for thermal technology over a range of ambient brightness levels.

[0121] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic with an integrated display system that uses multiple displays to augment the passive image provided by day-vision optics.

[0122] Rather than projecting or displaying the entire image, viewing optics with integrated display systems can use thermal cameras to augment passive images without displaying a new overall view, and the ability to have two different displays allows for optimal battery life while providing sufficient brightness and image quality.

[0123] In one embodiment, the observation optics with integrated display system combines multiple displays, i.e., a first display with high brightness quality and a second display with high bit depth and high resolution, into one observation optics. In one embodiment, the observation optics has two beam combiners. In one embodiment, the observation optics has a first beam combiner in the main body and a second beam combiner in the base.

[0124] By using two displays, one display can be of a type having low color depth and low resolution but high brightness for daytime use, and the other display can be of a type having high color depth and high resolution but low brightness for low light use. In one embodiment, the color depth, resolution, and brightness can be relative to the first display and the second display. In another embodiment, the terms high color depth, low color depth, high resolution, low resolution, high brightness, and low brightness can be used in accordance with industry standards.

[0125] The advantages of using these two display types become apparent when used in conjunction with thermal and night vision cameras. In one embodiment, a thermal camera can be attached to the viewing optics and transmit a thermal image to an active display, which transmits the image into the field of view so that the thermal image is superimposed on the passive image.

[0126] During the day, passive images are bright, so thermal images from active displays need to be bright enough for the user to see them. Currently, suitable displays with sufficient brightness for use in these conditions have low resolution with low color bit depth (Figures 86 and 87). This means that the display has fewer shades available to project between bright and dark areas, resulting in a lower quality projected image.

[0127] However, if the display is only to be used during the day, color depth and resolution are less important, as it is sufficient to enhance the passive image. For example, the passive image provides the detail necessary for a good picture, and the display helps to draw the user's eye to heat sources, so the sight can be programmed to outline heat signatures rather than shading them.

[0128] During low light conditions, the passive image begins to dim to the point where it becomes difficult for the user to see detail, in which case a high brightness display is not needed and another display with lower brightness but higher bit depth and resolution can be used.

[0129] In one embodiment, the viewing optics may have a light sensor that can detect when the light level drops below a set threshold, the viewing optics may precisely block the heat source, and the viewing optics may use a secondary display that can have sufficient bit depth and resolution to augment or replace the passive image to allow the user to obtain a clear image.

[0130] In another embodiment, a viewing optic with two or more active displays can project thermal and night vision images into the field of view of the viewing optic. By using both a thermal camera and a low-light camera, such as a low-light CMOS, two active displays can transmit images from each camera into the field of view of the riflescope.

[0131] For example, a thermal camera can transmit the outline of a heat source to a low-bit-depth, low-resolution display, and a low-light CMOS camera can transmit a night vision image to a high-bit-depth, high-resolution display, so that both are simultaneously imaged within the field of view.

[0132] Another advantage of observation optics with multiple active displays is that the high-brightness displays are small, meaning they have a limited field of view. In daylight, this is not as much of an issue, as the user has the ability to see a wider field of view from passive optics. However, at night, when passive imaging is unavailable, the small display can have a negative impact on approaching threats. Fortunately, lower-brightness displays are larger, allowing for a larger field of view in low-light conditions. This also allows for the best of both worlds.

[0133] Finally, a high bit depth, high resolution display uses significantly more power than a low bit depth, low resolution display. This means that during the day, you only need to use a low bit depth, low resolution display, resulting in a significant reduction in overall power consumption compared to using a high resolution display all the time.

[0134] In one embodiment, the first and second active displays are configured to emit light in a direction substantially parallel to the optical axis of the viewing scope. In yet another embodiment, the first and second active displays are configured to emit light in a direction substantially perpendicular to the optical axis of the viewing optics.

[0135] In one embodiment, the observation scope is configured to emit light in a direction substantially parallel to the optical axis of the observation optics, and the second active display is configured to emit light in a direction substantially perpendicular to the optical axis of the observation optics.

[0136] In yet another embodiment, the display system includes a beam combiner configured to combine an image produced from the first active display and an image produced from the second active display.

[0137] In one embodiment, the first and second active displays are positioned to the right of the beam combiner. In another embodiment, the first and second active displays are positioned to the left of the beam combiner.

[0138] In one embodiment, a first active display is positioned to the left of the beam combiner and a second active display is positioned to the right of the beam combiner.

[0139] In one embodiment, the first and second active displays are positioned above the beam combiner. In yet another embodiment, the first and second active displays are positioned below the beam combiner.

[0140] In one embodiment, a first active display is positioned above the beam combiner and a second active display is positioned below the beam combiner.

[0141] In one embodiment, a first active display is positioned to the left of the beam combiner and a second active display is positioned below the beam combiner.

[0142] In one embodiment, a first active display is positioned to the right of the beam combiner and a second active display is positioned below the beam combiner.

[0143] In one embodiment, a first active display is positioned to the left of the beam combiner and a second active display is positioned above the beam combiner.

[0144] In one embodiment, a first active display is positioned to the right of the beam combiner and a second active display is positioned above the beam combiner.

[0145] In one embodiment, the one or more active displays are positioned to the right of the beam combiner, while in another embodiment, the one or more active displays are positioned to the left of the beam combiner.

[0146] In one embodiment, one or more active displays are positioned to the left of the beam combiner and one or more active displays are positioned to the right of the beam combiner.

[0147] In one embodiment, the one or more active displays are positioned above the beam combiner. In yet another embodiment, the one or more active displays are positioned below the beam combiner.

[0148] In one embodiment, one or more active displays are positioned above the beam combiner and one or more active displays are positioned below the beam combiner.

[0149] In one embodiment, one or more active displays are positioned to the left of the beam combiner and one or more active displays are positioned below the beam combiner.

[0150] In one embodiment, one or more active displays are positioned to the right of the beam combiner and one or more active displays are positioned below the beam combiner.

[0151] In one embodiment, one or more active displays are positioned to the left of the beam combiner and one or more active displays are positioned above the beam combiner.

[0152] In one embodiment, one or more active displays are positioned to the right of the beam combiner and one or more active displays are positioned above the beam combiner.

[0153] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optics having a main body including an optical system having a first focal plane and configured to observe an image of an external scene, a beam combiner arranged in line with the optical system, and a display system having a first active display configured to generate an image, an additional separate and distinct beam combiner, and a second active display perpendicular to the first active display and configured to generate a second image, wherein an image generated from either the first active display or the second active display is projected onto the first focal plane of the optical system, allowing the generated image and an image of the external scene to be simultaneously observed when viewed through an eyepiece of the scope body. In one embodiment, the images generated from the first active display and the second active display are combined at the second beam combiner and directed to the first beam combiner, allowing the image generated at the first focal plane of the observation optics and the image of the external scene to be simultaneously observed when viewed through the eyepiece of the scope body.

[0154] In one embodiment, the second beam combiner is positioned to the left of the first active display. In yet another embodiment, the second active display can be positioned perpendicular to the first active display in the system, allowing both active displays to be used to project individually or simultaneously into the focal plane of the viewing optics.

[0155] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument comprising an optical system for generating an image of an external scene along an observation optical axis and a beam combiner, and a display system having a first active display configured to generate an image and a second active display configured to generate a second image perpendicular to the first active display, wherein the image generated from either the first active display or the second active display is directed to the beam combiner so that the image generated and the image of the external scene are simultaneously observed at a first focal plane of the optical system when viewed through an eyepiece of the scope body.

[0156] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument comprising an optical system for generating an image of an external scene along an observation optical axis and a first beam combiner, and a display system having a first active display configured to generate the image, a second active display configured to generate a second image, and an additional separate and distinct beam combiner for combining the first image and the second image, wherein the combined image is directed to the first beam combiner so that the generated image and the image of the external scene are simultaneously observed at a first focal plane of the optical system when viewed through an eyepiece of a scope body.

[0157] IV. Observation optics with base In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic, including but not limited to a riflescope, having a first housing coupled to a second housing. In one embodiment, the first housing is a main body. In yet another embodiment, the second housing is a base.

[0158] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a riflescope having a main body and a base coupled to the main body. In one embodiment, the base is separable from the main body. In one embodiment, the base is attached to the bottom of the main body. In one embodiment, a gasket is used to seal the main body and the base.

[0159] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a riflescope having a main body with an optical system for generating an image of an external scene, and a base coupled to the main body with an integrated display system for generating a digital image and directing the digital image to a first focal plane of the optical system, thereby providing simultaneous viewing of the digital image and the image of the external scene.

[0160] In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a riflescope having a main body with an optical system for generating an image of an external scene, and a base coupled to the main body with an integrated display system having an active display for generating an image and directing the generated image to a first focal plane of the optical system, and providing simultaneous viewing of the generated image and the image of the external scene when looking through an eyepiece of the scope body.

[0161] 2 displays a side view of a riflescope 200 having a main body 210 and a base 220. In one embodiment, the base 220 is separable from the main body 210. The base 220 is attached to one end of the scope body near the magnification ring 212 and to the other end of the scope body near the objective lens assembly 214. In one embodiment, the main body 210 and the base 220 are made of the same material. In another embodiment, the scope body and the base are made of different materials.

[0162] In one embodiment, the base 220 is approximately the length of the upright tube of the main body.

[0163] In one embodiment, the base has an integrated display system capable of generating and displaying situational, geographic, and ballistic information in the first focal plane of the observation optics, including, but not limited to, real-time ballistic solutions; in-flight tracer detection and tracking to correct the ballistic trajectory of the next round; weapon pointing angle tracking using integrated high-performance inertial sensors; precise pointing angle comparison for advanced ballistic targeting and correction; target location and designation; barometric pressure, humidity, and temperature; anti-friendly fire and situational awareness data processed by the device and observable while aiming; reticle targeting correction beyond the scope field of view for advantageous ballistic drop correction at long ranges; and weapon, round, and environmental characterization data.

[0164] In one embodiment, the sighting optic has one or more of the following features and / or components: one or more microprocessors, one or more computers, a fully integrated ballistic computer; an integrated near-infrared laser rangefinder; a GPS and digital compass integrated with the sighting optic capable of full coordinate target location and designation; pressure, humidity, and temperature sensors integrated with the sighting optic that can automatically incorporate this data into ballistic calculations; conventional sighting optic functionality in all conditions, including zero power off mode; wired and wireless interfaces for communicating sensor, environmental, and situational awareness data; capability to support digital interfaces such as Personal Network Node (PNN) and Soldier Radio Waveform (SRW); integrated vertical cant sensitivity for ballistic corrections that can be made for up-tilt and down-tilt fire directions; an integrated image sensor; capability to acquire and process image frames of the target scene; capability to record time-of-fire history for the purpose of applying automatic cold bore / hot bore fire corrections; and a built-in backup optical range estimator with automatic angular to linear size conversion.

[0165] In one embodiment, the observation optics may communicate with one or more devices wirelessly, while in another embodiment, the observation optics may communicate with one or more devices via a physical cable.

[0166] A. Main body In one embodiment, the main body is in the form of an elongated tube tapering from a large opening at the front to a smaller opening at the rear, with the eyepiece mounted at the rear of the elongated tube and the objective lens mounted at the front of the elongated tube. In one embodiment, the first housing is the main body of a riflescope.

[0167] In one embodiment, the main body has a viewing input end and a viewing output end, which can be aligned and collinear along the viewing optical axis 44 (FIG. 1B). An object or target passes through the viewing input end, along the viewing direct viewing optics, and out the viewing output end for direct viewing by the user's eye. The main body can include an objective lens or lens assembly at the viewing input end. A first focal plane reticle can be positioned along the viewing optical axis A and spaced from the objective lens assembly.

[0168] In one embodiment, the image or image inversion lens assembly can be positioned and spaced rearward from the first focal plane reticle along the viewing optical axis A. To invert the image, an erection tube with an erecting image system is installed within the main body between the objective lens and the eyepiece. This gives the image the correct orientation for land viewing. The erecting image system is typically housed within the erection tube.

[0169] An inverting lens assembly, or erecting imaging system, can comprise one or more lenses spaced apart from one another. The erecting imaging system can include one or more movable optical elements, such as a focusing lens movable along its optical axis to adjust the focus of the image, and a magnifying lens movable along its optical axis to optically magnify the image at a back focal plane so that the target appears closer than it actually is. Typically, the erecting assembly includes a mechanical, electromechanical, or electro-optical system for driving the cooperative movement of the focusing lens and one or more variable magnification lens elements of the magnifying lens to provide a continuously variable magnification range over which the erecting assembly produces a focused, erect image of a distant target at the back focal plane.

[0170] Variable magnification can be achieved by providing a mechanism for adjusting the position of the erecting lenses relative to each other within the erecting tube. This is typically done using a cam tube that fits snugly around the erecting tube. Each erecting lens (or group of lenses) is attached to an erecting lens mount that slides within the erecting tube. An erecting sleeve attached to the erecting lens mount slides in a linear slot within the body of the erecting tube to maintain the orientation of the erecting lens. This sleeve also engages an angled or curved slot in the cam tube. As the cam tube rotates, the erecting lens mount moves lengthwise within the guide tube, changing the magnification. Each erecting lens has a unique slot in the cam tube, and the configuration of these slots determines the amount and rate of magnification change when the cam tube is rotated.

[0171] The second focal plane aperture can be positioned and spaced rearward from the image inversion assembly along the observation optical axis A. The eyepiece assembly can be positioned and spaced rearward from the second focal plane aperture at the eyepiece along the observation optical axis A. The eyepiece assembly can include one or more lenses spaced apart from one another. In some embodiments, the observation optical axis A and the direct viewing optics can be folded.

[0172] In one embodiment, the main body includes a beam combiner. In one embodiment, the beam combiner can be positioned on and optically coupled to the observation optical axis 44, as shown in FIG. 1B. In one embodiment, the beam combiner can be positioned near the observation optical reticle. In another embodiment, the beam combiner can be positioned near the observation optical reticle in the first focal plane.

[0173] In one embodiment, the beam combiner is positioned between the objective lens assembly and the first focal plane.

[0174] In yet another embodiment, the main body includes a beam combiner, and the beam combiner is not located near the eyepiece assembly. In one embodiment, the beam combiner is not located below the eyepiece assembly.

[0175] In one embodiment, the main body includes a beam combiner that is positioned closer to the objective lens assembly than to the eyepiece lens assembly within the main tube of the viewing optics.

[0176] 3 displays a cutaway side view of riflescope 300 with main body 210 and base 220. As shown, riflescope 300 has an objective lens assembly 310, a beam combiner 320, a first focal plane 330, a second focal plane 350, and an eyepiece lens assembly 360. Beam combiner 320 is positioned between objective lens assembly 310 and first focal plane 330.

[0177] In one embodiment, the viewing optics 400 can have a main body 210 that is split longitudinally to allow for assembly of associated lenses and circuitry into the base 220. Figure 4 is a representative example of a longitudinally split main tube 210 for a riflescope 400. Figure 4 shows the split line 410 of the longitudinally split main tube. A split 420 on the bottom side of the main body 210 allows for the coupling of the base 220 with an integrated viewing system.

[0178] In one embodiment, the bottom side of the main body has a longitudinal division, hi one embodiment, the longitudinal division is approximately the length of the base where it joins the main body.

[0179] In one embodiment, the main body does not have an active display.

[0180] 1. Beam Combiner In one embodiment, the main body of the viewing optics includes a beam combiner. In one embodiment, the beam combiner is one or more prism lenses (the prism lenses constitute the beam combiner). In another embodiment, the main body of the riflescope includes a beam combiner that combines an image generated from the integrated viewing system with an image generated from the viewing optics along the viewing optical axis of the riflescope. In one embodiment, the integrated viewing system is located in a separate housing that is separate from the main body. In one embodiment, the integrated viewing system is located in a first housing or base that couples with the main body. In one embodiment, the integrated viewing system is located in a cavity in a base that couples with the first housing or main body.

[0181] In one embodiment, a beam combiner is used to combine an image generated from the integrated viewing system with an image from an optical system for observing an external image, where the optical system is located within the main body of the riflescope and in front of a first focal plane on the main body, and the combined image is then focused on the first focal plane so that the generated image and the observed image do not move relative to each other. With the combined image focused on the first focal plane, the aiming reference generated by the integrated viewing system is accurate regardless of adjustments to the movable erector.

[0182] In one embodiment, the beam combiner can be aligned with the integrated display system along the display optical axis and positioned along the observation optical axis of the observation optics in the main body of the riflescope, thereby allowing the image from the integrated display system to be directed onto the observation optical axis and superimposed on the field of view of the observation optics.

[0183] In another embodiment, the beam combiner and the integrated display system are in the same housing. In one embodiment, the beam combiner is about 25 mm from the objective lens assembly.

[0184] In one embodiment, the beam combiner is about 5 mm from the objective lens assembly, hi one embodiment, the beam combiner is positioned at a distance from the objective lens assembly including, but not limited to, 1 mm to 5 mm, or 5 mm to 10 mm, or 5 mm to 15 mm, or 5 mm to 20 mm, or 5 mm to 30 mm, or 5 mm to 40 mm, or 5 mm to 50 mm.

[0185] In yet other embodiments, the beam combiner is positioned at a distance from the objective lens assembly including, but not limited to, 1 mm to 4 mm, or 1 mm to 3 mm, or 1 mm to 2 mm.

[0186] In one embodiment, the beam combiner is positioned at a distance from the objective lens assembly including, but not limited to, at least 3 mm, at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, and at least 20 mm. In yet another embodiment, the beam combiner is positioned at a distance between 3 mm and 10 mm from the objective lens assembly.

[0187] In another embodiment, the beam combiner is about 150 mm from the eyepiece assembly. In one embodiment, the beam combiner is positioned at a distance from the eyepiece assembly including, but not limited to, 100 mm to 200 mm, or 125 mm to 200 mm, or 150 mm to 200 mm, or 175 mm to 200 mm.

[0188] In one embodiment, the beam combiner is positioned at a distance from the eyepiece assembly including, but not limited to, 100 mm to 175 mm, or 100 mm to 150 mm, or 100 mm to 125 mm.

[0189] In one embodiment, the beam combiner is positioned at a distance from the eyepiece assembly including, but not limited to, 135 mm to 165 mm, or 135 mm to 160 mm, or 135 mm to 155 mm, or 135 mm to 150 mm, or 135 mm to 145 mm, or 135 mm to 140 mm.

[0190] In one embodiment, the beam combiner is positioned at a distance from the eyepiece assembly including, but not limited to, 140 mm to 165 mm, or 145 mm to 165 mm, or 150 mm to 165 mm, or 155 mm to 165 mm, or 160 mm to 165 mm.

[0191] In one embodiment, the beam combiner is positioned at a distance from the eyepiece assembly including, but not limited to, at least 140 mm, or at least 145 mm, or at least 150 mm, or at least 155 mm.

[0192] In yet another embodiment, the main body has a beam combiner located on the outer central portion of the scope body below the elevation turret.

[0193] In one embodiment, the beam combiner can have a partially reflective coating or surface that reflects the active display output from the integrated display system, or at least a portion thereof, onto the viewing axis and redirects it toward the eye of the observer in the eyepiece, while still providing good transmissive transparency quality to the direct viewing optics path.

[0194] In one embodiment, the beam combiner can be a cube made of optical material, such as optical glass or plastic material, with a partially reflective coating. The coating can be a uniform, neutral reflective coating, or can be matched with a polarizing, spectrally selective, or patterned coating to optimize both transmission and reflection characteristics within the eyepiece. The polarization and / or color of the coating can be matched to the active display. This optimizes the reflectivity and efficiency of the display optical path while minimizing the impact on the transmission path of the direct viewing optics.

[0195] Although the beam combiner is shown as a cube, in some embodiments the beam combiner can have different optical path lengths for the integrated display system and direct viewing optics along the viewing optical axis A. In some embodiments, the beam combiner can be in the form of a plate, where a thin reflective / transmissive plate can be inserted in the path of the direct viewing optics transverse to the optical axis A.

[0196] In one embodiment, the position of the beam combiner can be adjusted relative to the reflective material to eliminate errors, including but not limited to, errors due to parallax. The position of the beam combiner can be adjusted using a screw system, a wedge system, or any other suitable mechanism.

[0197] In one embodiment, the position of the beam combiner can be adjusted relative to the erection tube to remove errors, including but not limited to errors due to parallax.

[0198] 2. Parallax System In one embodiment, the main body has a parallax adjustment system, which in one embodiment uses a device to connect the focus cell to the parallax adjustment element.

[0199] In one embodiment, the viewing optics disclosed herein has a main body with a focus cell positioned closer to an end of the objective lens than a conventional focus cell, and a beam combiner positioned in the space conventionally occupied by the focus cell, hi one embodiment, a connecting element connects the focus cell to the parallax adjustment element.

[0200] In a typical riflescope, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the parallax knob 510 is connected to the focus cell via a simple cross pin 520 that rides on a cam groove 530 in the parallax knob, translating rotational movement of the parallax knob into linear movement in the focus cell. However, in some embodiments disclosed herein, the focus cell is shifted toward the objective lens, and therefore a connection device is required to connect the focus cell to the parallax adjustment element.

[0201] The parallax adjustment system can eliminate or reduce parallax error between the image of the active display and a reticle within the main body of the viewing optics. The parallax adjustment system disclosed herein enables the viewing optics to merge the image of the digital display and the image of the external scene into the first focal plane (FFP) of the optical system without parallax error.

[0202] In another embodiment, the focus cell is positioned closer to the objective lens side of the main body than the focus cell of a conventional riflescope. In one embodiment, the focus cell is shifted closer to the objective lens by about 5 mm to about 50 mm than the focus cell of a conventional riflescope. In one embodiment, the focus cell is shifted closer to the objective lens by at least 20 mm than the focus cell of a conventional riflescope. In one embodiment, the focus cell is shifted closer to the objective lens by at least 10 mm than the focus cell of a conventional riflescope. In yet another embodiment, the focus cell is shifted closer to the objective lens by 50 mm or less than the focus cell of a conventional riflescope. In one embodiment, the focus cell is shifted closer to the objective lens assembly by 30 mm than the position of the focus cell in a Vortex Diamondback riflescope, Vortex Viper riflescope, Vortex Crossfire riflescope, or Vortex Razor riflescope.

[0203] In one embodiment, the focus cells are shifted closer to the objective lens side of the viewing optics by a distance including, but not limited to, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, and 40 mm compared to the focus cells of a conventional riflescope.

[0204] In one embodiment, a device connects the shifted focus cell to an adjustment knob. In one embodiment, the device allows for remote positioning of a parallax adjustment lens positioned within the focus cell. In one embodiment, the mechanical device is a push rod, rod, or shaft.

[0205] In one embodiment, the rods are about 5 mm to about 50 mm in length. In one embodiment, the rods are at least 20 mm in length. In one embodiment, the rods are at least 10 mm in length. In yet another embodiment, the rods are 50 mm or less in length.

[0206] In one embodiment, the rods are 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, and 40 mm in length.

[0207] 5C-5F are representative schematic diagrams of a parallax adjustment system in the main tube 210 of the observation optics according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5C, a device 530, such as a rod or shaft, connects a focus cell (parallax lens) 535, which is moved proximate to the objective lens end of the observation optics, to a parallax cam track pin 540 in the parallax adjustment knob assembly. The shifted position of the parallax lens provides the necessary space for the prism lens in front of the first focal plane. One end of the connecting rod is connected to the focus cell, and the other end of the connecting rod is connected to the cam pin.

[0208] 5D shows that device 530 connects focus cell 535 with a parallax lens to parallax cam track pins 540 that ride on cam tracks 545 of parallax adjustment assembly 550. In one embodiment, parallax adjustment assembly 550 has rotatable elements to move the cam pins to adjust the parallax lens.

[0209] As shown in Figure 5E, the focus cell is shifted closer to the objective lens assembly to provide space within the main body of the viewing optics for the beam combiner (prism lens). Therefore, a mechanism is required to connect the focus cell to the parallax knob assembly. Connection device 530 connects the focus cell to cam pins 540 that ride in cam grooves on parallax knob assembly 560.

[0210] As shown in FIG. 5F, cam pin 540 rides in cam groove 545 of parallax knob assembly 560, allowing adjustment of the focus cell via the parallax knob assembly.

[0211] In one embodiment, a shifted focus cell in the main body with a parallax lens provides space for integrating a beam combiner in front of the first focal plane of the objective lens system.

[0212] In one embodiment, the beam combiner within the main body of the riflescope disclosed herein is positioned in the space where a focus cell would normally be mounted in a conventional riflescope.

[0213] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument comprising: (a) a main tube; (b) an objective lens system coupled to a first end of the main tube; (c) an eyepiece lens system coupled to a second end of the main tube; (d) a focus cell positioned between the objective lens system and a beam combiner, the beam combiner being positioned between the focus cell and a first focal plane reticle; and (e) a rod connecting the focus cell to a parallax adjustment element. In one embodiment, the rod connects the focus cell to a cam pin of the parallax adjustment element. In some embodiments, the parallax adjustment element has a knob.

[0214] 3. Magnification tracking system In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic and a method for tracking the magnification setting of a viewing optic, wherein the components of the tracking mechanism are reliable, completely transparent to the operator, and protected from the environment.

[0215] When the reticle is in the first focal plane, it is in front of the erector and therefore changes proportionately with changes in lens position, producing a magnified image. The erector is repositioned using a magnification ring located on the exterior of the riflescope near the eyepiece housing. Typically, the magnification ring is threadedly connected to the outer erector sleeve; turning the magnification ring rotates the outer erector sleeve with it, and a cam groove changes the position of the zoom lens mounted on the erector. When projecting a digital image into the first focal plane, it is necessary to scale this image by the scale of the reticle to make the digital image usable.

[0216] A magnification adjustment mechanism is coupled to the variable magnification or zoom lens element and provides the ability to adjust the optical magnification of the image of a distant object.

[0217] In one embodiment, and as shown in Figure 6, the potentiometer wiper 610 is positioned on the outer diameter of the outer erecting sleeve 620. The potentiometer wiper contacts a membrane potentiometer 710 that is positioned on the inner diameter of the riflescope main body 210 (see Figure 7).

[0218] As shown in Figure 8, in one embodiment, the potentiometer wiper 610 is a flat spring with two contact points to ensure contact with the membrane potentiometer 710. The flat spring is positioned between the outer erection sleeve 620 and the inner erection tube. The potentiometer wiper 610 is positioned on the inner diameter of the riflescope, opposite the inner wall of the magnification ring slot threads 820. The potentiometer wiper 610 is secured to the inside side of the scope tube using adhesive.

[0219] In one embodiment, the potentiometer wiper has the ability to lie completely flat on the outer diameter of the outer erect sleeve. In one embodiment, the potentiometer wiper is located inside the outer erect sleeve.

[0220] In one embodiment, the wiper of the potentiometer is not located on the magnification ring 810 of FIG.

[0221] The magnification tracking system disclosed herein is installed internally, with no parts exposed to the environment, which provides several advantages. First, the system is internal, and as a result, no sealing is required to protect the wiper / erector from the environment. Second, the magnification tracking system is complete when theerctor is installed on the riflescope. This eliminates the possibility of debris entering the system through the threaded holes on the exterior of the magnification ring.

[0222] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a system for tracking magnification settings of a viewing optic, which uses a sensor and materials with different optical reflectances / absorbances, in one embodiment, the sensor is mounted to a base of the viewing optic, the base is coupled to a main body of the viewing optic, and the materials are positioned in the main body of the viewing optic.

[0223] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optical instrument having a main body with an erecting tube having an erecting lens system, a cam tube or sleeve surrounding or enclosing the erecting tube, materials with varying optical reflectance / absorption coupled to the cam tube, and a base coupled to the main body, the base having an integrated display system and a photosensor for detecting optical reflection / absorption from the material. In one embodiment, the base has a printed circuit board or microprocessor for communicating with the photosensor and one or more microcontrollers or electronic controllers.

[0224] In one embodiment, the observation optical instrument has a main body with a magnification adjustment ring for adjusting the optical magnification of the image, and a base coupled to the main body having an integrated display system, a microprocessor, and a system for communicating the magnification setting of the observation optical instrument to the microprocessor, the microprocessor communicating with the active display of the integrated display system.

[0225] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a system for tracking the magnification setting of a viewing optic that has no mechanical link between the moving parts of the optomechanical system and the sensing device. The magnification tracking system disclosed herein is embedded in a base coupled to the main body of the viewing optic and has no mechanical link between the stationary and moving parts of the system.

[0226] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optical instrument having a main body with an erection tube housing an erection lens assembly, a cam sleeve surrounding the erection tube and having a material with varying optical reflectance / absorbance, and a base coupled to the main body, the base having a photosensor. In one embodiment, the material with varying optical absorbance / reflectance surrounds the cam sleeve at an end of the cam sleeve near the magnification adjustment ring of the main body. In one embodiment, the photosensor is positioned on the cam sleeve below the material with varying optical absorbance / reflectance.

[0227] When the operator / user turns the magnification adjustment ring 212 of the viewing optics, the outer cam sleeve rotates, moving two lens cells, which changes the effective optical magnification of the riflescope.

[0228] In one embodiment, the cam sleeve comprises a material with varying optical absorptivity / reflectivity, which in one embodiment is applied to the outer diameter of the cam sleeve.

[0229] In one embodiment, the material is a strip of material. In one embodiment, the material is about 10 mm wide and about 40 mm long. In one embodiment, a first side of the material has an adhesive used to attach it to the outer cam sleeve. In another embodiment, the other side of the strip has a grayscale gradient printed on it so that when an LED is pointed at it, different amounts of light are reflected depending on the portion of the gradient that is exposed to the LED.

[0230] In one embodiment, the PCB includes an LED and a photosensor. In one embodiment, the LED and photosensor are positioned below a tilted strip attached to the outer diameter of the outer cam sleeve. The LED illuminates the tilted strip, and the photosensor receives a portion of the light reflected from the tilted strip and can send a signal to a microcontroller, where the signal strength varies with the amount of light detected.

[0231] As the operator turns the magnification adjustment ring, different portions of the tilt strip are exposed to the LED and photosensor, which in turn changes the signal strength it sends to the microcontroller. The system's optical magnification setting can therefore be tracked by relating it to the amount of light detected by the photosensor.

[0232] Figure 65 shows a side view of a 1-8x riflescope 6500 having a main body 6502 and a base 6505 coupled to the main body 6502. A magnification adjustment ring 6510 can be seen on the right side of the image.

[0233] FIG. 66 shows a side view of the riflescope 6500 with the body of the scope hidden to reveal the outer cam sleeve 6610, which rotates with the magnification adjustment ring 6510 to change the magnification setting.

[0234] Figure 67 shows the base 6505 of the viewing optics 6500 with a printed circuit board 6710 containing a photosensor and LED 6720 used to measure the position of a reflective gradient material attached to the outer cam sleeve of the main body. The outer cam sleeve and associated optics are hidden in this image.

[0235] FIG. 68 is a representative exploded view of the photosensors and LEDs on a printed circuit board 6710, with a simulated viewing cone drawn to illustrate the light acceptance angle for the photosensors.

[0236] 69 and 70 are images of a photosensor and LED 6720 in conjunction with a reflective, tilted strip 6910 attached to the outer cam sleeve 6610 to measure the magnification setting of the viewing optics. This shows the tilted strip 6910 with four specific sections of different reflectivity, but note that the strip can have an infinite amount of reflectivity variation. The tilted strip 6910 couples to the cam sleeve at a portion of the cam sleeve positioned near the magnification adjustment ring. A printed circuit board 6710 is positioned within the base 6505, which couples to the main body of the viewing optics. The LED and photosensor 6720 on the printed circuit board 6710 are positioned below the tilted strip 6910.

[0237] In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a microscope comprising: a main body having a central axis and a first end and a second end; an objective lens system disposed within the body; an eyepiece lens disposed within the body; an erection tube disposed within the main body and having an erection lens system, wherein the objective lens system, the eyepiece lens, and the erection lens system form an optical system having a first focal plane and a second focal plane, the first focal plane being proximate to the objective lens system and the second focal plane being proximate to the eyepiece lens; a cam sleeve surrounding the erection tube that moves in cooperation with a magnification adjustment ring to adjust the optical magnification of the image, the cam sleeve having materials with various optical absorptances / reflectances bonded to the cam sleeve; The present invention relates to an observation optics comprising: a base having a photosensor coupled to a main body for detecting light from a material, a microprocessor in communication with the photosensor, and an active display in communication with the microprocessor for generating an image based on a magnification setting and projecting the generated image onto a first focal plane of the observation optics. In one embodiment, the image generated from the active display is based on a signal obtained from the photosensor.

[0238] Communicating the magnification setting to the microprocessor has many advantages, including, but not limited to, modifying the reticle pattern based on the magnification setting and automatically changing the font size of alphanumeric information as the magnification changes. Additionally, if multiple display "pages" are stored in the memory system, the microcontroller can automatically switch between "display" pages depending on the magnification setting in order to present the most relevant data to the operator.

[0239] 4. Additional Components In one embodiment, the viewing optics can be controlled by buttons integrated into the riflescope or externally mounted buttons.

[0240] In one embodiment, the main body of the viewing optics can include a camera system.

[0241] In one embodiment, the main body of the observation optics can include one or more computing systems. An integrated display system, described below, can communicate with or otherwise relate to the computing systems. In some embodiments, the computing systems can be contained within a first housing or body of the observation optics. In some embodiments, the computing systems can be coupled to an exterior portion of the observation optics.

[0242] 9 is a block diagram of various electronic components of a viewing optics according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. A battery 902 can power a computing system or control module 904 and an active display 906. In one embodiment, the computing system 904 can include, but is not limited to, a user interface 908, a data input device 914, a processor 910, a memory 916, and one or more sensors 912.

[0243] In one embodiment, the user interface 908 can include multiple input and / or output devices, such as buttons, keys, knobs, a touchscreen, a display, a speaker, a microphone, etc. Some components of the user interface, such as buttons, can be used to manually input data, such as wind data, display intensity data, reticle intensity data, ballistic profile data, ballistic coefficient data, muzzle velocity data, initial zeroing data, static status of the riflescope system, GPS coordinate data, compass coordinate data, and sight-above-bore data. This data can be received by the processor and stored in memory. This data can also be used by the processor within or to execute algorithms.

[0244] The data input device 914 can include a wired or wireless communication device and / or can include any type of data transfer technology, such as, for example, a USB port, a mini-USB port, a memory card slot (e.g., a microSD slot), an NFC transceiver, a Bluetooth® transceiver, Firewire, a ZigBeee® transceiver, a Wi-Fi transceiver, an 802.6 device, a cellular communication device, etc. Although referred to as a data input device, it should be noted that such devices are used in two-way communication and can provide data output as well.

[0245] In one embodiment, the processor 910 may be any type of processor known in the art capable of receiving inputs and executing algorithms and / or processes, including, without limitation, one or more general-purpose processors and / or one or more special-purpose processors (e.g., digital signal processing chips, graphics acceleration chips, etc.). The processor may be used to control various processes, algorithms, and / or methods in the operation of the riflescope. The processor may control the operation of the display system and / or reticle. The processor may also receive inputs from a user interface, data input, memory, sensor(s), position encoders associated with the position of an adjustable component (e.g., vertical adjustment knob, windage adjustment knob, or parallax dial), and / or from other sources.

[0246] In one embodiment, memory 916 may include any type of digital data storage device, such as random access memory (“RAM”) and / or read-only memory (“ROM”), which may be programmable, flash updatable, etc. In another embodiment, memory may include memory from an externally connected device, including, for example, a disk drive, a drive array, an optical storage device, or a solid-state storage device. In some embodiments, memory may be configured to store ballistic information, including data usable, for example, to correct the amount a bullet will drop over a given distance and / or the horizontal deflection of the bullet.

[0247] Data can be input from another device (e.g., the processor can receive data via a data input device, which can be input from another device such as a computer, laptop, GPS device, rangefinder, tablet, or smartphone) and stored in memory. Such data can include, for example, calibration data, ballistic profile lookup tables that cross-reference rotational and / or linear data with shoot-to-range values, rifle data, projectile data, user data, etc.

[0248] The sensor(s) 912 may be used to sense any of a variety of environmental conditions or characteristics relevant to the use of the riflescope. For example, the sensor(s) may sense atmospheric conditions (humidity, temperature, pressure, etc.), tilt, rifle cant, and / or rifle aiming direction (compass direction). Any number of sensors may be included. Sensor data may be recorded by a processor and stored in memory and / or used to process instructions for operation of the viewing optics.

[0249] The control module 904 may also include software elements, which may be located in the working memory 916. The software elements may include an operating system and / or other code, such as one or more application programs.

[0250] In one embodiment, the camera can be in communication with the control module.

[0251] B. Second Housing In one embodiment, a second housing is coupled to the first housing and houses the integrated display system. In one embodiment, the second housing is a base coupled to a portion of the main body of the viewing optics. In one embodiment, the base is separable from the main body of the viewing optics.

[0252] In one embodiment, the second housing is not an image stabilization device. In one embodiment, the length of the base with the integrated display system is 35% to 70% of the length of the main body of the riflescope to which the base is coupled. In yet another embodiment, the length of the base with the integrated display system is 40% to 65% of the length of the main body of the riflescope to which the base is coupled. In yet another embodiment, the length of the base with the integrated display system is 65% or less of the length of the main body of the riflescope to which the base is coupled.

[0253] In one embodiment, the main body of the riflescope is approximately 2.5 times the length of the base with the integrated viewing system. In yet another embodiment, the main body of the riflescope is 1.5 to 2.5 times the length of the base with the integrated viewing system. In yet another embodiment, the main body of the riflescope is at least 1.5 times the length of the base with the integrated viewing system.

[0254] As shown in Figure 2, the base 220 can be bolted to the scope body 210 of a riflescope to form a completely sealed and integrated system, in which case the base 220 can be attached directly to the firearm without the need for traditional riflescope rings.

[0255] Figure 10 shows a top view of the riflescope 200 with the main body 210 and base 220. Figure 10 clearly shows that the base 220 prevents the riflescope from protruding in any position or becoming out of proportion with a conventional riflescope. The riflescope disclosed herein with its main body and base maintains the traditional sleek design of a riflescope.

[0256] 11 shows the base 220 attached to the riflescope's main body 210. The base 220 is aligned and flush with the outer edge of the main body 210.

[0257] 2, a base with an integrated display system is coupled to the bottom side of riflescope body 210, with one end of the base coupling near the magnification selection ring or ring 212 of main body 210 and the other end of the base coupling near the beginning of objective lens assembly 214 of the main body. In one embodiment, base 220 is coupled to main body 210 by threaded fasteners, threadless integral and non-integral locating and recoil transfer features, and elastomeric seals.

[0258] In one embodiment, the base is sectioned with the components necessary to generate the digital display, and the base can then be bolted to the main body of the riflescope to form a completely sealed and integrated system.

[0259] In one embodiment, the base and the main body of the scope are a sealed, integrated system. In one embodiment, the base is coupled to the main body without the use of clamps designed for easy removal.

[0260] In one embodiment, a viewing optic having a main body and a base coupled to the main body can be coupled to a firearm without the need for traditional rifle scope rings. In one embodiment, the viewing optic has a main body and a base coupled to the main body, with a bottom side of the base having a mounting rail.

[0261] In one embodiment, the base of the observation optic can include a mounting rail for attachment to a desired firearm, instrument, or device and can have an adjustment mechanism including an elevation adjustment drum for adjusting the elevation position of the optic. Lateral adjustment mechanisms are also typically provided for lateral adjustment. These adjustment mechanisms can be covered with a protective cap.

[0262] In one embodiment, the top side of the base couples to the bottom side of the main body of the viewing optics, and the bottom side of the base has a mounting rail. In one embodiment, the top side of the base couples to the lateral sections of the bottom side of the main body of the viewing optics.

[0263] In one embodiment, the base includes an integrated display system for generating an image using an active display and directing the generated image along a display optical axis so that the generated image can be viewed simultaneously and superimposed with an image of an external scene, the generated image being introduced into a first focal plane of the main body of the observation optics.

[0264] In one embodiment, the base is separate and distinct from the laser range finder device.In one embodiment, the base is a separate device from the laser range finder device.

[0265] In one embodiment, the second housing or base is not an add-on. In another embodiment, the second housing or base is not coupled by an adapter as an add-on adjacent to the eyepiece of the viewing optics.

[0266] In one embodiment, the second housing or base cannot be separated from the main body by an end user. In an embodiment, the second housing or base cannot be replaced with multiple or other viewing optics.

[0267] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a system including an observation optical instrument having a main body with a first optical system and a base coupled to the main body and having a second optical system, such as an integrated display system, and a laser range finder device.

[0268] 1. Integrated display system In one embodiment, the second housing includes the integrated display system. In another embodiment, the base includes the integrated display system. In yet another embodiment, the base with the integrated display system is coupled to the main body of the riflescope. In yet another embodiment, the base is coupled to the bottom of the main body of the riflescope.

[0269] In one embodiment, the base has an integrated display system comprising an active display, concentrator optics, and a reflective material, including but not limited to a mirror. In one embodiment, the integrated display system has the following architecture: active display, then concentrator optics, then a reflective material, such as a mirror.

[0270] 12 is a top cutaway view of a base 220 coupled to the main body of the viewing optics. The base 220 includes an integrated display system having a microdisplay 1210, concentrator optics 1220, and a mirror 1230. In one embodiment, the mirror 1230 can be positioned at any suitable angle.

[0271] 13 is a cutaway side view of base 220 with an integrated display system having microdisplay 1210, concentrator optics 1220, and mirror 1230. Main body 210 has beam combiner 320 positioned above mirror 1230.

[0272] 14 shows a cutaway side view of a riflescope having a main body 210 and a detachable base 220. The base 220 includes a microdisplay 1210, collector optics 1220, and a mirror 1230. The mirror 1230 is positioned at approximately 45 degrees. The scope body 210 has a beam combiner 320 positioned approximately above the angled mirror 1230. The beam combiner 320 is positioned approximately below the elevation adjustment knob 1410 of the scope body 210. The active display 1210 is positioned within the base on the eyepiece assembly side 1420 when the base 220 is coupled to the main body 210 of the viewing optics.

[0273] 15, the image generated from the microdisplay 1210 can be redirected from the display optical axis A to the observation optical axis A via mirror 1230 to a beam combiner 320 in the main body 210 so that the digital image is simultaneously superimposed or overlapped onto an image of the scene viewed by a viewer through the optics in a first focal plane 1510. Because the beam combiner 320 is positioned before the first focal plane 1510 and the combined image is focused at the first focal plane, the displayed and observed images do not move relative to each other. This is a significant improvement over devices that introduce an image at a second focal plane.

[0274] In one embodiment, the active display 1210 is located on a portion of the base that is closest to the objective lens assembly 214 relative to the eyepiece lens assembly of the main riflescope body when the base is coupled to the main riflescope body, as shown in Figure 16. The main riflescope body has an analog reticle 1610.

[0275] Figure 17 shows a riflescope 200 including a main body 210 with a beam combiner 320 and a base 220 coupled to the main body and having an integrated display system. As shown in Figure 17, the active display 1210 is located in a portion of the base that is closest to the eyepiece assembly relative to the objective lens assembly of the riflescope body when the base is coupled to the main body of the riflescope. By superimposing the image from the integrated display system onto the first focal plane, the user can still use a conventional glass-etched reticle 1610 for aiming purposes.

[0276] In one embodiment, the integrated display system can direct a generated image from the active display along a display optical axis A. The generated image can be directed from the display optical axis A to a mirror in the base and to a beam combiner in the main body of the riflescope so that the generated image is simultaneously superimposed or overlapped on an image of the scene viewed by an observer through the optics of the main body, where the combined image is introduced or focused into a first focal plane of the optics of the main body.

[0277] In one embodiment, the image generated from the active display in the base is focused on a first focal plane of the riflescope body, thereby allowing the image generated from the display to maintain alignment with externally mounted equipment.

[0278] In one embodiment, the image generated from the active display in the base is focused on a first focal plane of the main body of the riflescope, so that the generated image is not bound by the movement of the erection tube.

[0279] In one embodiment, light from the active microdisplay is collected by an optical lens group. The light from the display is reflected by a beam combiner within the riflescope main tube assembly to form a display image that is coincident with the first focal plane of the riflescope. This display image is combined with the scene (target) image and perceived as being "below the surface" of a traditional wire or glass-etched reticle. In one embodiment, the "traditional" reticle still utilized occludes both the scene image and the display image. When the display brightness is increased to a sufficient brightness level, the OLED display image will fill the scene image and appear to occlude the scene as well.

[0280] In yet another embodiment, an integrated display system in the base can direct the generated image along a display optical axis "B" onto a viewing optical axis A in the main body of the riflescope. The generated image can be redirected from the display optical axis B with a mirror or similar reflective material in the base towards the viewing optical axis A in the main body to a beam combiner in the main body, thereby allowing the generated image to be simultaneously superimposed or overlaid on an image of the scene viewed by an observer through the optics of the main body. The generated image from the active display in the base is directed to a mirror, which reflects the generated image to the beam combiner.

[0281] In one embodiment, the display optical axis "B" and the viewing optical axis "A" are substantially parallel, but in other embodiments they may be oriented differently as desired.

[0282] A. Active Display In one embodiment, the integrated display system has an active display. In one embodiment, the active display is controlled by a microcontroller or computer. In one embodiment, the active display is controlled by a microcontroller with an integrated graphics controller for outputting video signals to the display. In one embodiment, information can be transmitted wirelessly or by physical connection into the viewing optics via a cable port. In yet another embodiment, multiple input sources can be input into the microcontroller and displayed on the active display.

[0283] In one embodiment, the active display and the beam combiner are not located in the same housing. In one embodiment, the active display and the beam combiner are located in separate housings.

[0284] In one embodiment, the active display may be a reflective, transmissive, or emissive microdisplay, including, but not limited to, a microdisplay, a transmissive active matrix LCD display (AMLCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, a light emitting diode (LED) display, an electronic ink display, a plasma display, a segmented display, an electroluminescent display, a surface conduction electron emission display, a quantum dot display, or the like.

[0285] In one embodiment, the LED array is a micro-pixelated LED array, and the LED elements are micro-pixelated LEDs (also referred to herein as micro-LEDs or μLEDs) having a small pixel size of generally less than 75 μm. In some embodiments, the LED elements may each have a pixel size ranging from about 8 μm to about 25 μm, and a pixel pitch (in both the vertical and horizontal directions of the micro-LED array) ranging from about 10 μm to about 30 μm. In one embodiment, the micro-LED elements have a uniform pixel size of about 14 μm (e.g., all micro-LED elements are the same size within a small tolerance) and are arranged in the micro-LED array at a uniform pixel pitch of about 25 μm. In some embodiments, the LED elements may each have a pixel size of about 25 μm or less, and a pixel pitch of about 30 μm or less.

[0286] In some embodiments, microLEDs are inorganic and may be based on gallium nitride light emitting diodes (GaN LEDs). MicroLED arrays (comprising a large number of μLEDs arranged in a grid or other arrangement) can provide high-density, emissive microdisplays that are not based on external switching or filtering systems. In some embodiments, GaN-based microLED arrays can be grown, bonded, or otherwise formed on a transparent sapphire substrate.

[0287] In one embodiment, the sapphire substrate is textured, etched, or otherwise patterned to increase the internal quantum efficiency and light extraction efficiency of the micro-LEDs (i.e., extract more light from the surface of the micro-LEDs). In another embodiment, silver nanoparticles can be deposited / dispersed onto the patterned sapphire substrate to coat the substrate before bonding the micro-LEDs to further improve the optical efficiency and output power of GaN-based micro-LEDs and micro-LED arrays.

[0288] In one embodiment, the active display may be monochrome or may provide full color, and in some embodiments, multiple colors. In other embodiments, other suitable display designs or types may be employed. The active display may be driven by electronics. In one embodiment, the electronics may provide the display functionality or may receive such functionality from another device in communication with the electronics.

[0289] In one embodiment, the active display can be part of a backlight / display assembly, module, or configuration having a backlight assembly that includes a backlight illumination or light source, device, apparatus, or component, such as an LED backlight, for illuminating the active display with light. In some embodiments, the backlight source can be a large area LED and can include a first lens or integrated lens for collecting and directing the generated light to a second illumination or collection lens, concentrating the light onto the active display with good spatial and angular uniformity and directing it along the display optical axis B. The backlight assembly and active display can provide an image that is low power yet bright enough to be viewed simultaneously with a very bright real-world view through optics.

[0290] The backlight color can be chosen to be any monochrome, or can be white to support full-color microdisplays. Other backlight design elements, such as other light sources, waveguides, diffusers, micro-optical elements, polarizers, birefringent components, optical coatings, and reflectors, can be included to optimize the performance of the backlight, compatible with the overall size requirements of the active display, as well as the brightness, output, and contrast needs.

[0291] 16 and 17 depict a representative example of an integrated display system in a base that mates with the main body, showing the display, optics, and mirrors that work with the optics housed in the main body of the viewing optics depicted above.

[0292] Representative examples of microdisplays that can be used include, but are not limited to, those manufactured by Microoled, including MDP01 (series) DPYM, MDP02, and MDP05; those manufactured by Emagin, such as SVGA, microdisplays with pixel pitches of 9.9x9.9 μm and 7.8x7.8 μm; and those manufactured by Kopin Corporation, such as the Lightning Oled Microdisplay. MicroLED displays can also be used, including, but not limited to, those manufactured by VueReal and Lumiode.

[0293] In one embodiment, the electronics cooperating with the active display may include capabilities for generating display symbols, formatting output for the display, and may include battery information, power conditioning circuitry, a video interface, a serial interface, and control features. Other features may be included for additional or different functionality of the overlay display unit. The electronics may provide the display functionality or may receive such functionality from another device in communication with the electronics.

[0294] In one embodiment, the active display generates images including, but not limited to, text, alphanumeric characters, graphics, symbols, and / or video feeds, icons, etc., including an active target reticle, range measurements and wind information, GPS and compass information, firearm tilt information, target detection, recognition and identification (ID) information, and / or external sensor information (sensor video and / or graphics), or imagery for situational awareness, etc., that can be viewed through the eyepiece along with an image of the field of view seen through the optics. The direct view optics can include or maintain an etched reticle and muzzle sight and retain high resolution.

[0295] In one embodiment, an active display can be used to display a programmable electronic aim point at any location within the field of view. This location can be determined by the user (as in the case of rifles that fire both supersonic and subsonic projectiles and therefore have two different ballistic trajectories and "zero-ins") or calculated based on information received from a ballistic calculator. This provides a "drop-compensated" aim point for long-range shooting that can be updated at shot-by-shot intervals.

[0296] In one embodiment, the active display may be oriented to provide maximum vertical correction, hi one embodiment, the active display is positioned so that it is taller than it is wide.

[0297] In one embodiment, the active display is oriented as shown in Figure 18, which allows for the maximum vertical adjustment range 1810 for the active reticle within the riflescope. Maximum vertical adjustment is advantageous because it allows for ballistic correction in longer range scenarios.

[0298] In one embodiment, the integrated display system further comprises a processor in electronic communication with the active display.

[0299] In another embodiment, the integrated display system can include an electronic communication device in electronic communication with the memory, at least one sensor, and / or the processor.

[0300] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument comprising: a main body with an optical system for generating an image of an external scene and a main body beam combiner arranged in line with the optical system; and a base coupled to the main body with an integrated display system having a first active display for generating the image and a second active display perpendicular to the first active display, wherein an image generated from either the first active display or the second active display is projected onto a first focal plane of the optical system, allowing the generated image and an image of the external scene to be observed simultaneously when viewed through an eyepiece of the scope body.

[0301] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optical instrument comprising: a main body with optical systems for generating an image of an external scene and a main body beam combiner positioned in line with the optical systems; and a base coupled to the main body with an integrated display system having a first active display for generating the image, a second active display for generating the image, a base beam combiner configured to combine the first image and the second image, and a reflective material for directing the combined image to the main body beam combiner for simultaneous superimposition and viewing of the combined image and an image of the external scene at a first focal plane when viewed through an eyepiece of the scope body.

[0302] In one embodiment, the base beam combiner is positioned to the right of the first display. In yet another embodiment, a second active display can be positioned in the system perpendicular to the first active display, allowing both displays to be used to project individually or simultaneously into the focal plane of the viewing optics.

[0303] Distance measurement usage In one embodiment, the active display can display distance measurements obtained from a laser rangefinder. In one embodiment, the LRF can be coupled to the viewing optics. In one embodiment, the LRF is directly coupled to the outer scope body of the riflescope. In another embodiment, a portion of the LRF is directly coupled to the outer portion of the scope body of the riflescope.

[0304] In one embodiment, the LRF is indirectly coupled to the outer scope body of the riflescope. In another embodiment, a portion of the LRF is indirectly coupled to an outer portion of the scope body of the riflescope.

[0305] In yet another embodiment, the LRF is not coupled to the riflescope, but communicates with the riflescope either via hard wiring or wirelessly.

[0306] In general operation, the LRF provides a pulse of laser light that is projected onto a scene via projection optics. This laser light illuminates an object, and a portion of the laser light is reflected back to the LRF. The portion of the reflected laser light that returns to the device is captured by receiving optics and directed to a detector. The device contains a timer that starts when the laser light pulse is sent and stops when the returning laser light is detected. The computer portion of the device uses the elapsed time between the sending of the laser light pulse and the detection of the returning reflected laser light to calculate the distance to the object.

[0307] In one embodiment, the distance calculations are sent to an active display and the generated image (distance measurement or calculation) is redirected using mirrors and beam combiners from the display optical axis "B" onto the observation optical axis A so as to simultaneously superimpose or overlay the image (distance measurement or calculation) onto the image of the scene as viewed by the observer through the observation optics.

[0308] Windage Range Bar In another embodiment, the active display can generate a windage range. In one embodiment, a user can provide a range of wind values ​​and the software can generate the windage data, e.g., a windage range variation bar. In one embodiment, the windage data is sent to the active display and the generated image, e.g., a windage range variation bar, is redirected using mirrors and beam combiners from the display optical axis "B" onto the observation optical axis "A" so that the image (windage range variation bar) is simultaneously superimposed or overlaid on the image of the scene viewed by the observer through the observation optics.

[0309] In one embodiment, the windage data includes a minimum windhold point to a maximum windhold point.

[0310] In one embodiment, the windage data is sent to an active display, which can generate a digital reticle in the field of view with the appropriate windhold.

[0311] Mental cue color display In one embodiment, the active display can generate a color display to convey an extra level of information to the user in a quickly understandable format, hi one embodiment, the active display can generate a series of color-coded symbols to indicate readiness to launch.

[0312] In one embodiment, the active display can generate a series of color-coded symbols to color-code objects within a target scene. In one embodiment, the active display can distinguish friendly forces from enemy forces by color. In another embodiment, the active display can color-code targets of interest.

[0313] In one embodiment, the active display can generate a series of color-coded symbols to indicate the windage adjustment status. In one embodiment, a red dot can indicate that the windage adjustment is not complete, while a green symbol can indicate that the windage adjustment is complete.

[0314] In another embodiment, the active display may generate a colored aim point. In one embodiment, if proper adjustments, including but not limited to windage, range, and elevation, have not been made, the aim point is red. In another embodiment, if some, but not all, fire adjustments have been made, the aim point is yellow. In yet another embodiment, if all necessary fire adjustments have been made, the aim point is green and the aim point is fully corrected.

[0315] In yet another embodiment, the flashing and lit states of the symbols may be used to convey similar status information regarding the adjustment of the aimpoint.

[0316] In yet another embodiment, the active display can generate text that is colored to indicate a status. In one embodiment, red text indicates that an input parameter has not been entered or calculated, and green text indicates that a parameter has been entered or calculated.

[0317] Marker for impact zone in range finding In one embodiment, the active display can generate a circle, square, or other shape to allow the user to quickly capture or encircle the impact zone of the projectile.

[0318] Holdover estimation and correction In another embodiment, the active display can generate a compensated aimpoint for a moving target based on user input for direction and speed of movement. For example, a user can input a speed of 5 miles per hour moving left, which would be added to the windage value if the wind and movement are in the same direction and subtracted from the windage value if the wind and movement are in the opposite direction. In this case, when the aimpoint and / or windage value bar are plotted on the display, the aimpoint will include an appropriate amount of holdover, allowing the user to place the aimpoint dot in the desired impact zone and shoot, rather than having to place the aimpoint in front of the moving target to compensate for the moving target's movement.

[0319] Team operations using cameras and remote display controls In one embodiment, an active display in conjunction with a network interface allows for an additional level of enhanced operation and use. In one embodiment, multiple shooters' reticle images can be viewed over the network. Each shooter's reticle camera image is displayed on one or more consoles, and the network processes and interfaces allow for group-level coordination, training, and collaboration not previously available with individual riflescopes.

[0320] Training and Guidance In a training or instruction scenario, the instructor can see how each shooter aligned their reticle with their target. The ability to actually see the reticle alignment allows the instructor or trainer to provide instructions regarding adjustments and repositioning, such as by verbal instructions (e.g., over the radio or in person).

[0321] In another embodiment, the instructor's console can be provided with a pointing means, such as a mouse or joystick, for which control data is transmitted from the console over a network to the rifle's integrated display system. The instructor's mouse or joystick then controls an additional dot or pointer in each shooter's scope display, allowing the instructor to visually indicate to the shooter which target to use, which range marker bar to use, and where to position the reticle relative to the target. In one embodiment, each shooter can be given their own unique instructor dot so that the instructor can provide individualized instruction to each shooter.

[0322] Firing Adjustment In another embodiment, the active display can be used in the coordination and execution of a multi-shooter firing team. In one embodiment, the team leader operates the leader console and uses the leader dots to assist in assigning targets to each shooter, communicating reticle placement changes, etc.

[0323] Snapshots for remote review and approval In another embodiment, the active display and network process allows a shooter, given control, to take a "snapshot" of their reticle view. This snapshot of the user's reticle view can include an image of the target in question. This image is received by a director or instructor, who reviews the image and approves or disapproves the shot. For example, in a teaching scenario, a user can take a snapshot of an animal that they believe is a legitimate animal (age, species, sex, etc.) to shoot. If the instructor agrees, they can indicate this by positioning or moving an instructor dot in the shooter's reticle.

[0324] Biometric classification of targets In another embodiment, the snapshot of the reticle image is received by a biometric recognition and / or classification process, such as a facial recognition system. The biometric recognition and / or classification process may be on-board the gun, such as integrated into the display control logic, or may be remote from the gun and interconnected via a network. The results of the recognition and / or classification process may be provided to the reticle by transmitting the results over the network to the control logic and updating the display accordingly.

[0325] Side-by-side image display In another embodiment, an image is downloaded over a network to the integrated display system and displayed simultaneously with the observed image of the target in the reticle. Using the downloaded image, the user (shooter) can perform a side-by-side comparison of the target they are currently observing with a previously captured image or photograph of a target similar to the one they have been instructed or wish to photograph. For example, during doe season, a novice shooter may be provided with a reference image of a doe in the reticle to compare in real time with the actual animal they are observing through the scope. In military or law enforcement applications, an image of a sought enemy or fugitive may be displayed in the reticle, allowing the shooter to compare in real time with the face of the person they are observing through the scope.

[0326] A typical example of an active display a. 530~570nm In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an integrated display system using 530-570 nm microdisplays.

[0327] FIG. 19 shows an integrated display system with a 530-570 nm digital display 1910.

[0328] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary image 2020 that can be displayed on a 530-570 nm digital display 1910. As shown in Figure 20, a glass-etched reticle 2010 can be used with the devices and systems disclosed herein. These images are exemplary only and should not be construed as limiting the amount or type of information that can be displayed on the active display.

[0329] In another embodiment, the incorporation of a 530-570 nm digital display 1910 allows for relatively higher effectiveness than any other color display due to the sensitivity of the human eye, which allows for less power consumption compared to powering a red or blue display of the same photometric brightness.

[0330] In yet another embodiment, the incorporation of a 530-570 nm digital display 1910 gives the end user greater ability to distinguish the digital overlay from the background created by ambient light with daylight vision.

[0331] b. AMOLED In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an integrated display system that includes an AMOLED microdisplay.

[0332] FIG. 21 shows an integrated display system with an AMOLED digital display 2110.

[0333] Figure 22 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary image 2210 that can be displayed on an AMOLED digital display. As shown in Figure 22, a glass-etched reticle 2010 can be used with the devices and systems disclosed herein. These images are exemplary only and should not be construed as limiting the amount or type of information that can be displayed on an active display.

[0334] In one embodiment, the image produced by the AMOLED 2110 is integrated / imaged / focused onto a first focal plane. In one embodiment, the use of the AMOLED display 2110 allows for increased contrast and greater complexity in the data displayed on the riflescope.

[0335] In one embodiment, the incorporation of an AMOLED display 2110 allows for the selection of individual pixels that are illuminated, giving the riflescope the ability to easily display complex data structures.

[0336] In another embodiment, the incorporation of an AMOLED display 2110 allows for a smaller, lighter package size within the riflescope due to a reduced need for backlighting within the system.

[0337] In another embodiment, the integrated display system does not require a backlit display assembly.

[0338] In yet another embodiment, the incorporation of the AMOLED display 2110 allows for reduced power consumption since the ability to optimize power usage for individual pixels is now available.

[0339] In one embodiment, the incorporation of an AMOLED display 2110 provides contrast ratios that allow for a clean "heads-up" style display within the scope, allowing each floating feature to be individually targeted and rendered without low glow around the pixels.

[0340] B. Concentrator lens system In one embodiment, the integrated display system has an optical system based on the use of optical lenses as part of one or more lens cells, which include the lenses themselves and the lens cell body in which the lenses are mounted. In one embodiment, the lens cell includes a precision-formed body that is generally cylindrical or disc-shaped and has a central aperture for mounting the lens in alignment with the optical axis of a larger optical system. The cell body can also be said to have its own alignment axis, which will ultimately align with the optical axis of the larger optical system when the lens cell is mounted therein. Furthermore, the lens cell functions as a "holder" for the lens, a mechanism by which the lens can be mounted to and within the larger optical system, and (ultimately) a means by which the lens can be manipulated by and for that optical system.

[0341] In one embodiment, the integrated display system comprises a concentrator lens system, also referred to as a lens system, hi one embodiment, the concentrator lens system comprises an inner lens cell and an outer lens cell.

[0342] FIG. 23 is a representative example of a concentrator lens system 2310, having an inner lens cell 2315 and an outer lens cell 2320. In one embodiment, the outer lens cell 2320 houses at least one lens, and the inner lens cell 2315 houses at least one lens. In one embodiment, the inner lens cell 2315 rotates on the inner surface of the outer lens cell 2320. As shown in FIG. 23, the active display 1210 is bonded to a flat textured surface on the back of the inner lens cell 2315. In one embodiment, the active display 1210 can be directly bonded to the inner lens cell 2315. In yet another embodiment, the active display 1210 can be indirectly bonded to the inner lens cell 2315.

[0343] One advantage of the concentrator optics disclosed herein is that the inner lens cell coupled with the microdisplay mount provides a rigid rotating mechanical axis for positioning the vertical axis of the microdisplay.

[0344] Figure 24 is a representative illustration of a base 220 mated with a main body of a viewing optics instrument, in this case the base having a concentrator optic 2310 as part of an integrated viewing system. In Figure 24, the main body is depicted by a beam combiner 320 and a viewing optic reticle 2420.

[0345] The outer lens cell 2320 is fixed in position within its main body relative to the viewing optics, while the inner lens cell 2315 is allowed to rotatably float within the outer lens cell 2320. By applying pressure to a surface 2410 of the inner lens cell 2315, which is positioned below the axis of rotation of the inner lens cell 2315, the vertical axis of the active display 1210 can be aligned with the vertical axis of the reticle 1610 of the viewing optics.

[0346] FIG. 25 is a representative illustration of one embodiment for aligning the tilt of the vertical axis of the active display with the vertical axis of the reticle. As shown in FIG. 25, opposing set screws 2505 can be tightened against a surface of the inner lens cell 2315 that is positioned below the axis of rotation of the inner lens cell 2315. The set screws 2505 can be used to align the vertical axis of the microdisplay 1210 with the vertical axis of a reticle in the optical system within the main body of the viewing optics. The rotation of the inner lens cell 2315 can be maintained by securely tightening the set screws 2505 against the underside of the inner lens cell 2315, thereby locking the vertical axis of the microdisplay 1210 in place.

[0347] 26 is a representative diagram of a rear cutaway view of the condenser lens system 2300 with tilt adjustment for the microdisplay 1210 or active display. When the microdisplay is introduced into the viewing optics using a beam combiner or waveguide, an additional correction method is required to eliminate tilt errors between the reticle's vertical axis and the introduced image of the microdisplay's vertical axis. A set screw 2505 is tightened against a surface of the inner lens cell 2315 positioned below the rotation axis of the inner lens cell 2315, thereby aligning the microdisplay's 1210 vertical axis with the reticle's vertical axis in the optical system within the main body of the viewing optics.

[0348] FIG. 27 is an exemplary diagram of a method and apparatus for eliminating parallax between a microdisplay and a reticle in the optical system of the main body of a viewing optics instrument. An outer lens cell 2320 houses at least one lens on the right side of FIG. 27, and an inner lens cell 2315 houses at least one lens on the left side of FIG. 27. The inner lens cell 2315 slides along the optical axis on the inner surface of the outer lens cell 2320. The microdisplay 1210 is coupled to the inner lens cell 2315. A spring 2710 is disposed between the outer lens cell 2320 and the inner lens cell 2315 to separate them when not under compression.

[0349] Figure 28A is a representative illustration of a base coupled to a main body of a viewing optics instrument, having collector optics 2300. In Figure 28A, the main body is depicted with a beam combiner 320 and a viewing optic reticle 2810.

[0350] The outer lens cell 2320 is fixed in position relative to the viewing optics, and the inner lens cell 2315 is allowed to float within the outer lens cell 2320. By forcing the inner lens cell 2315 forward with a screw or wedge 2820 that applies force to the back of the inner lens cell / active display mount, the axial position of the microdisplay image is changed so that the focal plane of the image is positioned flush with the viewing optic reticle in the main body of the viewing optics, thus eliminating parallax between the microdisplay and the reticle.

[0351] The inner lens cell is held in place by the action of a spring pushing a screw or wedge outward. Parallax between the active display and the reticle can be eliminated without changing the amount of light collected from the active display and without degrading the image quality of the optical system.

[0352] The use of springs between the inner and outer lens cells and the application of force to the back of the inner lens cell / microdisplay allows for maximum light collection from the microdisplay and provides a quick, easy, and accurate method of adjustment.

[0353] In one embodiment, the inner lens cell 2315 and the outer lens cell 2320 can comprise two or more lenses. In yet another embodiment, the lens system can comprise three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or eleven or more lenses. Lenses are available from a variety of commercially available manufacturers, including, but not limited to, LaCroix Optics (www.lacroixoptics.com) and Diverse Optics (www.diverseoptics.com). In one embodiment, the inner lens cell and the outer lens cell comprise a concentrator lens system.

[0354] In one embodiment, the lens system is comprised of a five-lens system. In one embodiment, the five-lens system is comprised of five single lenses. In another embodiment, the five-lens system is comprised of two doublet lenses and one single lens. In yet another embodiment, the five-lens system is comprised of three single lenses and one doublet lens. In one embodiment, at least one plastic aspheric lens is used as the first element.

[0355] In one embodiment, the lens system is a five-lens system with the following order: the aspheric singlet closest to the active display, then a singlet, then a doublet, then the last singlet.

[0356] In one embodiment, the lens system is a five-lens system with the following order: the aspheric singlet closest to the active display, then a singlet, then a singlet, then a doublet.

[0357] In one embodiment, the lens system is a five-lens system with the following order: aspheric singlet closest to the active display, then a singlet, then a singlet, then a doublet. In one embodiment, the lens system is a five-lens system with the following configuration: Lens 1 closest to the active display is 11 mm in diameter and 9.3 mm thick, Lens 2 is 9 mm in diameter and 1.9 mm thick, the doublet has one lens (Lens 3) that is 13.5 mm in diameter and 2.1 mm thick and another lens (Lens 4) that is 13.5 mm in diameter and 4.1 mm thick, and Lens 5 is 13.5 mm in diameter and 3.3 mm thick.

[0358] In one embodiment, the air spacing from one lens to the next ranges from about 1 mm to about 20 mm. In one embodiment, the air spacing from one lens to the next ranges from about 5 mm to about 20 mm. In one embodiment, the air spacing from one lens to the next ranges from about 10 mm to about 20 mm.

[0359] In one embodiment, the distance between the active display and the first lens is minimized to collect the maximum amount of light from the display. In one embodiment, the distance between the active display and the first lens is less than 2 mm. In another embodiment, the distance between the active display and the first lens is selected from the group consisting of less than 1.8 mm, less than 1.5 mm, less than 1.3 mm, less than 1.1 mm, less than 0.9 mm, less than 0.7 mm, less than 0.5 mm, and less than 0.3 mm.

[0360] In one embodiment, the five-lens system is housed in an inner lens cell and an outer lens cell. In one embodiment, the inner lens cell is assembled by placing an aspheric lens, then a spacer, then lens 2 (which can be a 9mm singlet lens), and then a locking ring (which holds both lenses in place) into the inner lens cell from opposite ends of where the display pedestal is.

[0361] In one embodiment, the outer lens cell is assembled by inserting lens 5 (which may be a 13.5 mm singlet lens), then a spacer, then doublet lens 2 (which may be lenses 3 and 4), and then a locking ring into the outer lens cell from opposite ends of the cell.

[0362] 28B is an exemplary illustration of a base with a concentrator optic or lens system. The inner lens cell 2315 is assembled by placing an aspheric lens 2840, then a spacer, and then a glass concave-convex lens 2850 into the inner lens cell from the opposite end of where the display pedestal is. In one embodiment, the glass concave-convex lens can be Lens 2, as described above. The outer lens cell 2320 can be assembled by inserting a glass doublet 2860 followed by a glass singlet 2870.

[0363] In one embodiment, the concentrator lens system comprises five lenses including 2840, 2850, 2860, and 2870, with 2840 closest to the active display and 2870 furthest from the active display. In one embodiment, inner lens cell 2315 comprises 2840 and 2850. In one embodiment, outer lens cell 2320 comprises 2860 and 2870.

[0364] In one embodiment, axial movement of the inner lens cell along the inner diameter of the outer lens cell changes the spacing between lens 2 of the inner cell and lens 3 of the outer cell, which is used to move the focal plane of the display image and completely eliminate parallax between the projected display image and the passive reticle in the main body of the viewing optics.

[0365] In one embodiment, focusing the display image onto a first focal plane of the optical system within the main body is achieved by changing the air spacing between lenses 2 and 3 of the five-lens system, which is achieved by changing the position of the inner lens cell relative to the outer lens cell.

[0366] In one embodiment, the lens assembly can also be assembled together within a lens barrel, which is a monolithic mechanical structure that holds a series of lenses. The lens barrel is used to position the lenses axially and radially relative to each other and to provide a means for aligning the lens assembly with the optical system of which it is a part. The lens elements are radially positioned by the inner diameter, or ID, of the barrel wall. The outer diameter, or OD, of the lens elements is ground to match the ID of the barrel wall. The axial position of the lens elements is achieved by cutting the lens seat during assembly. The lens elements can then be constrained to the lens seat with epoxy, a retaining ring, or the like.

[0367] C. Reflective material In one embodiment, the integrated display system comprises a reflective material 1230. In one embodiment, the reflective material 1230 is a mirror. In one embodiment, the integrated display system comprises one or more mirrors. In one embodiment, the integrated display system comprises two, three, four, five, or more mirrors.

[0368] In one embodiment, the mirror is positioned at an angle of 30° to 60°, or 30° to 55°, or 30° to 50°, or 30° to 45°, or 30° to 40°, or 30° to 35° relative to the display's emitted light.

[0369] In one embodiment, the mirror is positioned at an angle of 30° to 60°, or 35° to 60°, or 40° to 60°, or 45° to 60°, or 50° to 60°, or 55° to 60° relative to the display's emitted light.

[0370] In one embodiment, the mirror is positioned at an angle of at least 40°. In one embodiment, the mirror is positioned at an angle of 45° relative to the display's emitted light.

[0371] In one embodiment, and as shown in FIG. 29, the tilt of mirror 2910 along the vertical axis can be adjusted using a screw or similar mechanism. By turning the screw into the base or back of mirror 2910, the angle at which the microdisplay image is reflected into the beam combiner can be changed. This correspondingly changes the tilt of the focal plane at the viewing optics reticle 2930 of the main body optics of the viewing optics. This adjustment can be used to eliminate parallax error between the microdisplay and the reticle along the vertical axis.

[0372] In one embodiment, the mirror is secured to the base with one or more screws, hi one embodiment, the mirror is secured to the base using a compound such as an epoxy, resin, or adhesive, or a combination thereof.

[0373] In one embodiment, the position of the mirror can be adjusted relative to the beam combiner to remove errors, including but not limited to parallax errors.

[0374] In one embodiment, the position of the mirror can be adjusted relative to the active display to remove errors, including but not limited to parallax errors.

[0375] 2. Power System In one embodiment, a base that mates with the main body of the observation optics includes the power system. In another embodiment, the base of the observation optics includes a cavity. A battery cavity can be incorporated into the base that mates with the main body of the observation optics.

[0376] Figure 30 is a representative schematic diagram of a base 220 with a battery compartment 3005, where the base 220 is coupled to the main body 210 of a riflescope 3000. As shown in Figures 30 and 31, the battery compartment 3005 extends from each side of the base to accommodate batteries, including CR123 batteries, which have increased power capacity and discharge capacity compared to smaller batteries or coin cells.

[0377] In one embodiment, the battery cavity 3005 is integral with the base 220 so that only a battery cap is needed to protect the battery from the environment. No additional sealing is required.

[0378] In one embodiment, the battery cavity 3005 in the base 220 is positioned closer to the objective lens assembly 3010 than to the eyepiece lens assembly of the main body 210 of the viewing optics.

[0379] In one embodiment, the battery cavity 3005 of the base 220 is positioned closer to the eyepiece assembly of the main body 210 of the viewing optics than to the objective lens assembly.

[0380] 32 is a representative diagram of a battery compartment 3005 integrated into the base 220. In one embodiment, the battery compartment 3005 is designed so that the battery is inserted positive side first into the bottom of the battery cavity with a mechanical stop to prevent improper installation and operation of the battery.

[0381] In one embodiment, the integrated battery cavity 3005 can use the same gasket that is used in the base 220 for the riflescope's main body 210. This provides a more reliable seal and eliminates mechanical devices because a separate battery cavity is not needed. Second, because the battery cavity is integrated into the base, there is no mechanical device to secure the battery cavity. This reduces the need for a mechanical interface to secure the battery compartment. Because there is no need to mechanically lock the battery cavity, the integrated battery compartment reduces the points of failure associated with conventional battery compartments.

[0382] The integrated battery compartment eliminates any obstructions that may get in the way of the user. It is located below the viewing optics where it does not interfere with any of the adjustments and knobs found on conventional viewing optics. The integrated battery compartment is a significant advancement because it allows for the space needed to accommodate larger batteries.

[0383] In one embodiment, the viewing optics can be configured in a manner that minimizes battery drain and maximizes battery life. For example, a viewing optic equipped with a laser rangefinder is activated when the operator presses a button or switch. The rangefinder's designator is displayed on the screen. The output laser of the external rangefinder matches the designator through an initial calibration step when zeroing the viewing optics. When the operator activates the external rangefinder, information is transmitted wirelessly or through a communications port to the viewing optics, signaling that information has been received and needs to be displayed.

[0384] If the observation optics are powered on and no data is received from an external device, the observation optics will power off after a user-set time has elapsed. After displaying the information received from the external device, a power-off timer starts, which powers off the observation optics if no further button presses are recorded.

[0385] If more information is received from the external device, the screen will clear the previous information, display the updated information, and start the power off timer. This cycle can continue for any number of times selected by the operator.

[0386] While the information is displayed on the screen, a cant indicator is displayed on the screen. This is refreshed at intervals from an accelerometer in communication with the microcontroller. When the microcontroller is in sleep mode, an integral button on the viewing optic controls the brightness of the LEDs that illuminate the glass-etched reticle. When the viewing optic is active, control of these LEDs is suspended and the screen brightness changes with the corresponding button press.

[0387] 3. Picatinny mount In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic having a main body and a base with a battery compartment, and a Picatinny mount that can be coupled to the battery compartment. In one embodiment, the detachable Picatinny mount is attached to a protruding battery compartment integrated into the base that is coupled to the riflescope body.

[0388] 33-35 are representative schematic diagrams of a riflescope comprising a main body 210 and a base 220 coupled to the main body 210, the base having a battery compartment 3005 attachable to a Picatinny mount 3305. In one embodiment, the Picatinny mount 3305 is aligned with the battery compartment 3005 and secured with fasteners.

[0389] Mount 3305 attaches to battery compartment 3005 of base 220, utilizing the material needed to create cavity 3005 for the battery. This eliminates the need for additional material from the base, thereby making the viewing optics lighter and less intrusive.

[0390] In one embodiment, the mount is positioned toward the objective lens, away from the turret and parallax knob, so as not to interfere with the user's ability to adjust the riflescope. Additionally, the top ring is removable, allowing for easy attachment of auxiliary devices, such as a laser rangefinder. By utilizing the Picatinny mount disclosed herein, the integrated base secures the riflescope, eliminating the need for additional structural support from the upper portion of the ring.

[0391] In one embodiment, the mount incorporates a cantilevered Picatinny rail that extends forward toward the riflescope's objective lens. This allows the weapon-mounted laser rangefinder to be seated directly above the bell of the riflescope. This mounting style allows for reduced bullet misalignment and improved accuracy of the ranging device. It reduces the chance of bullet misalignment because there are fewer variables affecting the ranging device due to acquiring the desired target.

[0392] 4. Data Port In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument comprising a main body and a base having an active microdisplay for generating an image and combining the generated image with an image of a scene at a first focal plane of the main body of the observation optical instrument, the base having an axially oriented data port for interfacing with auxiliary devices including, but not limited to, a remote control switch and a laser rangefinder.

[0393] 36 is a representative schematic diagram of a riflescope 3600 having a main body 210 and a base 220 with an axially oriented data port 3605. In one embodiment, the viewing optics can have one axially oriented data port. In another embodiment, the viewing optics can have two or more axially oriented data ports.

[0394] By utilizing the axially oriented data port 3605, the top-down profile of the entire observation optics is minimized, thereby improving the robustness of the mounted system and its connections.

[0395] 5. External Video Source In one embodiment, the active display in the base can be used as the optical train or optics of the clip-on device, including but not limited to thermal imaging systems and night vision systems.

[0396] Thermal imaging systems allow the user to capture and transmit images of various waves in the electromagnetic spectrum that are generally inaccessible to the human eye. Traditional thermal weapon sights consist of two pairs of systems: infrared optics that view the scene, and visible-wavelength optics, consisting of a microdisplay and lenses, that reproduce this image on the front of the riflescope. There are also cases of catalytic photon amplification, creating what are known as "night vision" systems. However, clip-on devices are typically attached to a rifle rail at the front of the main body of the riflescope. This configuration typically blocks all ambient light from being imaged by the scope, allowing only a digital image. To switch back to a traditional image, the user must remove the system from the rail. This can lead to bullet misalignment due to the need to realign the sight each time the sight is repositioned. These clip-on units also tend to be bulky, requiring an eyepiece / imaging system behind the digital display within the unit. With traditional systems, any live video feed is a fully digital image, including visible spectrum output.

[0397] FIG. 37 is a representative schematic diagram of a riflescope 3700 having a main body 210 and a base 220 with an active display 1210 and concentrator optics 1220 that can be used as the optics of a thermal imaging unit 3705. The active display 1210 generates an image that is focused on a first focal plane of the main body of the scope and integrates this image with conventional daylight optics using a beam combiner. The integration of a digital display allows the user to overlay a digital image on top of the ambient daylight optics. With the digital display disclosed herein, there is no need to remove the clip-on unit from the front of the viewing optics to view the ambient daylight optics. Instead, the digital display can be turned on and off as needed.

[0398] The integration of the digital display ensures zero image shift when switching between daytime visible optics and digital optics. Because the system is fully integrated, there is no need to zero in the digital optics every time they are turned on. The system is synchronized by aligning the combiner optics.

[0399] In one embodiment, the integration of a digital display provides an optical train that typically forms the rear half of a clip-on unit. Because a microdisplay is already present within the base of the observation optic, only infrared optics are required for thermal targeting: the image generated by the thermal sensor is transmitted to an active display, which is already integrated into the base of the observation optic. By integrating the thermal or night vision targeting in this manner, the thermal / night vision device is much shorter and lighter than weapon sights currently on the market. This allows for the design of a more compact and lightweight system, since half of the optical train is integrated directly into the base that mates with the main body of the observation optic. There is no need to integrate rear optics or a display into the clip-on unit that houses the sensing device.

[0400] Furthermore, if a thermal weapon sight were mounted on the side of a riflescope so that the thermal optics did not obscure the riflescope's objective lens, it would be possible to superimpose a thermal image onto the visible image observed by the user. This would have the advantage of being able to highlight people, animals, or anything with a thermal signature that would otherwise not be noticeable in a neutral daylight scene.

[0401] In one embodiment, the integration of a digital display as disclosed herein creates the advantage of providing a live video feed into the focal plane of the viewing optics without obstructing the daytime visible sight.

[0402] In one embodiment, the integration of digital displays allows for seamless integration of imaging overlays, such as live thermal imaging, and hyperspectral overlay systems. The visible image is now analog, rather than a separate digital display.

[0403] In one embodiment, the integration of digital displays disclosed herein provides the advantage that even if power suddenly fails on the digital system, the image feed continues: a true analog image will still be available, which is not the case with traditional digital output systems.

[0404] In one embodiment, the integration of a digital display allows multiple types of imaging systems to be mounted off the front of the viewing optics: a thermal imaging system can be aligned with the bottom or side of the viewing optics and still deliver its image directly onto a focal plane within the main body of the viewing optics.

[0405] 6. EMI transparent window In one embodiment, the main body, the base, or both the main body and the base of the viewing optics can have a window sealed with a material that is transparent to the electromagnetic waves used in wireless communication, including but not limited to plastic, resin, or epoxy.

[0406] In one embodiment, the window allows electromagnetic waves to propagate from the communication device with reduced interaction from metallic objects in the observation optics, which increases the speed at which data can be transmitted and allows the wireless communication device to operate at lower power levels due to reduced signal loss.

[0407] III. Additional Sensors / Devices In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optical instrument having a main body and a base with an integrated display system and one or more sensors, in one embodiment, the sensors include, but are not limited to, a global positioning system, an accelerometer, a magnetometer, a MEMS rate sensor, a tilt sensor, and a laser range finder.

[0408] A. Pointing angle, target location, and communication In one embodiment, the observation optics can have an inertial MEMS rate sensor to determine the pointing angle of the weapon in inertial space. Exemplary products are Systron Donner's LCG-50 and Silicon Sensing's SiRRS01. In another embodiment, an accelerometer can be incorporated into the embedded electronics to determine the absolute tilt angle of the observation optics and track weapon acceleration due to typical movement or firing events.

[0409] To assist in targeting, various embodiments can include the observation optics, a GPS, and / or a digital compass. In one embodiment, the GPS and / or digital compass can be integrated into the observation optics, for example, as a board-level module. In another embodiment, the GPS and / or digital compass can be associated with a separate device that communicates with the observation optics.

[0410] Several manufacturers offer custom off-the-shelf modules for GPS and digital compass functions that have small form factors and low power consumption. These devices are designed to be integrated into embedded components. For example, Ocean Server Technology manufactures the OS4000-T compass with 0.5-degree accuracy, consumes less than 30 mA, and is smaller than 3 / 4 inch square. One example of a GPS device is the Delorme GPS2058-10 module, available in a surface-mount package that measures 16 mm x 16 mm and provides 2-meter accuracy.

[0411] In one embodiment, the observation optics can have data interfaces providing either or both wired and wireless capabilities designed to interface with systems such as BAE Personal Network Nodes and emerging SRW radios. These interfaces provide various communication capabilities such as range, sensor, and other tactical data (e.g., friendly fire detectors, environmental sensors, etc.). This unique capability is used in various embodiments to acquire and communicate environmental, target, and situational awareness information to a community of interest. Generally speaking, various embodiments are designed to enable a soldier to rapidly acquire, reacquire, process, and otherwise integrate data from various passive and active sources into a ballistic firing solution, thereby enhancing the shooter's effectiveness.

[0412] In another embodiment, the sensor provides information to an active display to generate real-time position data of different targets on a first focal plane of the main body of the observation optics. In another embodiment, the sensor is part of an external device that communicates with the integrated display system.

[0413] By using such a sensor within the observation optic, or on an external device tightly connected to the observation optic, or on the weapon on which the observation optic is mounted, the precise position of the observation optic can be obtained as well as the precise direction in which the observation optic is pointed, and the external target can be calculated in relation to the position and aiming direction of the observation optic.

[0414] As the user moves the viewing optics around or the target moves relative to the viewing optics, the target's position is continuously updated in real time by sensors in communication with the integrated display system, allowing the user to ascertain where the target is in relation to its visible position by looking through the viewing optics.

[0415] This technique has strong practical utility in military applications where personnel may be in different locations and attempt to communicate specific target locations to each other. For example, in close air support (CAS), a pilot may operate an aircraft, and ground forces may rely on the aircraft to drop bombs on the target. It is often difficult for ground forces to communicate the target's exact location to the aircraft. The process of communicating targeting information between ground forces and aircraft is often referred to as "talking to the target" and involves communicating what the force or aircraft sees in its field of view, such as what landmarks are visible near the target.

[0416] This process often takes a considerable amount of time and can be confusing because the target often looks different from the air than it does on the ground. It is crucial that each unit is confident that they are all looking at the same target, because if an aircraft mishits its target, it could drop bombs on friendly forces or non-combatants.

[0417] These problems are solved by allowing position and attitude sensors to communicate with the active reticle display of the integrated display system. A user of the observation optic can designate a target in the scope, and the scope, knowing the scope's GPS location, the precise direction it is pointing, and the distance to the target, can calculate the target's precise GPS coordinates. This information can be fed into a universal system, such as Link 16, to which all friendly forces are connected. Then, the aircraft simply looks at its own display, and as soon as another force designates a new target, that target appears on the map.

[0418] This makes target detection much faster and makes it much easier to verify that both forces are viewing the same target. Because precision is crucial in determining target location, the image generated by the active display must be displayed in the first focal plane of the main body of the observation optics. If the image generated from the active display is projected into the second focal plane of the main body of the observation optics, the target location will only be accurate when the observation optics reticle is in its "zeroed" position. If the user of the observation optics turns the turret any amount, for example to line up with a long-range target, all of the target information in the display will shift by the amount the turret was turned and will be inaccurate.

[0419] By using this with the active display image introduced into the first focal plane, the displayed data is independent of and automatically corrects for adjustments made to the reticle position, meaning that the target data in the field of view is always accurate.

[0420] B. Environmental Sensor In one embodiment, the observation optics can include one or more pressure, humidity, and / or temperature sensors designed to collect and use environmental data for ballistic correction. Sensors are available in compact configurations suitable for incorporation into the observation optics. An example of a compact, low-power, waterproof barometric pressure sensor is the MS5540 manufactured by Intersema. This component measures 6.2 x 6.4 mm.

[0421] In one embodiment, the sensor may be coupled to the main tube of the viewing optic or to the base of the viewing optic.

[0422] C. Uphill and downhill In one embodiment, the sighting optics can have a z-axis accelerometer that can be used to measure the tilt angle of the scope relative to vertical. This tilt angle can be incorporated into the ballistic solution at target selection. Once a target is selected, the system can automatically incorporate the actual upslope or downslope tilt into the ballistic solution and display the solution in the first focal plane of the sighting optics so that the digital reticle or modified aim point is displayed correctly. This can provide a very fast and effective means of aiming during long-range upslope or downslope engagements.

[0423] IV. Observation optics with display systems and laser range finders In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic having a main body and a base with an integrated display system, and a laser range finder. In one embodiment, the laser range finder is coupled to the viewing optic. In another embodiment, the laser range finder is separate from the viewing optic and communicates with the viewing optic wirelessly or via a cable.

[0424] In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder is coupled to the viewing optics by a mounting rail attached to the base through the battery compartment.

[0425] In one embodiment, a laser rangefinder can be used to determine the distance to a target. In various embodiments, the laser transmits in the near infrared for stealth purposes. A typical wavelength used for laser rangefinder devices operating in the near infrared (NIR) is 905 nm.

[0426] In one embodiment, the particular laser power and spectral characteristics are selected to meet the distance and eye safety requirements of the viewing optics. The rangefinder is of sufficient power to produce accurate measurements, illustratively out to 1500 meters, 2500 meters, or other effective distances associated with firearms or weapons intended for use with the viewing optics. With respect to rangefinder operation, in some embodiments, a single button control is dedicated to taking or performing rangefinder measurements.

[0427] In one embodiment, the distance to the target can be communicated to an active display that generates an image of the distance to the target and superimposes the distance to the target on a first focal plane of the viewing optics when observing the target scene.

[0428] In one embodiment, the observation optics has a computing device with ballistic calculation capabilities. In one embodiment, the main body of the observation optics has a computing device with ballistic calculation capabilities.

[0429] In one embodiment, a laser rangefinder can be used to measure target distance, calculate the projectile trajectory, and communicate a corrected aim point to an active display within the integrated display system, which then superimposes an image of the corrected aim point onto a first focal plane of an observation optics having a reticle mounted on a movable erecting lens system.

[0430] Importantly, because the image generated by the active display is combined with the image from the target in front of the first focal plane and then focused at the first focal plane, the target image and the display image never move relative to each other, so any aiming reference generated by the digital display will always be accurate regardless of how the moving erector is adjusted.

[0431] When an external laser rangefinder provides distance information to the riflescope, a sighting reference, or laser designator, must be created on the digital display so the user knows where in the field of view the LRF is aimed to hit the correct target with the laser. The digital display image and the objective lens system's target image on the main body of the riflescope do not move relative to each other. Therefore, the digital laser designator can accurately show the user the correct location of the LRF laser aim point, regardless of how the turret is adjusted to move the movable erector lens system.

[0432] On the other hand, if the digital display image is integrated into the optical system somewhere after the first focal plane, when the erector lens system is moved / tilted by adjusting the turret, the digital display image will move relative to the target image and the digital LRF designator will move relative to the actual laser aim point. This can lead to inaccurate distance measurements if the user dials in any elevation or windage adjustments on the turret and forgets to return the turret to the original position it was set to when the user aligned the digital reticle with the actual laser aim point.

[0433] Furthermore, when zeroing a conventional riflescope on a rifle, the user typically selects a "zero" distance, often 100 yards, which is used to align the riflescope's reticle with the rifle's projectile's point of impact. This is typically accomplished by adjusting the riflescope's turret, and thus the tilt angle of the erecting lens system, to align the reticle with the riflescope's point of impact. After the riflescope's initial "zero" is set, the turret allows the user to make further adjustments to the riflescope's reticle position to compensate for targets at different distances and to compensate for changes in windage variables that affect where the projectile's point of impact will vary from the initial "zero" position.

[0434] If a digital display is integrated into the riflescope system behind the first focal plane, the correction factors for the ballistically calculated aim point may be inaccurate if the user makes any adjustments to the turret from the initial "zero." For example, if the ballistic calculator determines that a 10 milliradian elevation adjustment is required to hit the target, the digital display will place the aim point 10 milliradians below the center of the crosshairs. However, if the user dials in the elevation turret 5 milliradians from the initial "zero" position, the digital aim point will actually be aimed 15 milliradians below the initial "zero."

[0435] By introducing the digital display into the first focal plane of the riflescope's main body optics, it is possible to make the digital display completely independent of any changes in turret adjustment or erector position. That is, in the example above, for a total correct ballistic drop of 10 milliradians, the digital aim point would only appear 5 milliradians below the center of the reticle (the user had previously rotated the elevation turret 5 milliradians from the initial "zero" position). In short, by introducing the digital display image into the first focal plane of the main body optics, the digital display image becomes completely independent of any changes in turret position, and therefore any movement / tilt of the erector lens system, providing the required precision.

[0436] In one embodiment, the capabilities of the laser rangefinder provide a ballistic solution that is dynamically determined based on acquired data. The range to the target can be used by an onboard computer when processing the tracer's trajectory to determine the best point along the measured trajectory path to use to determine the ballistic correction for the next shot.

[0437] In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder is integrated into the scope and has a dedicated output laser transmission port. In one embodiment, the optical path of this dedicated laser axis is positioned in a corner of the housing so that it is not obstructed by the main objective lens. The detection path for the incoming reflected laser signal passes through the scope's main objective lens, and the light is directed to a photodetector by a near-infrared beam splitter. This arrangement takes advantage of the relatively large aperture of the main objective lens to increase the signal-to-noise ratio of the measurement.

[0438] 38-44 provide photographs of a viewing optics 3800 having a main body 3810 with optics, a base 3820 having an integrated display system and coupled to the main body 3810, and a laser range finder 3830 coupled to the top of the main body 3810. The viewing optics 3800 can have two auxiliary ports 3805 for communication with external sources. The viewing optics 3800 can have a Picatinny mount 3305 that couples to the outside of the battery cap for the battery cavity 3005 in the base 3820.

[0439] 45-46 provide an illustration of a viewing optics 4500 having a main body 4510 with an optics system, a base 4520 having an integrated display system and coupled to the main body 4510, and a laser range finder 4530 coupled to the top of the main body 4510. The viewing optics 4500 can have a single auxiliary port 4535 for communication with the laser range finder 4530.

[0440] 47 and 48 provide an illustration of a viewing optic 4700 having a main body 4710 with an optics system and a base 4720 having an integrated display system and coupled to the main body 4710. In certain embodiments, the viewing optic 4700 can have a Picatinny mount 4730. In certain embodiments, the viewing optic can have an auxiliary port 4735.

[0441] V. Additional Embodiments 1. Digital zero adjustment In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method of using a digital reticle for alignment and zeroing. In one embodiment, a viewing optic has a physical reticle and a digital reticle, the physical reticle being connected to a mounting system. A user "zeroes" the physical reticle using a turret and moves the reticle and mounting system so that the center of the reticle is aligned with the point of impact of a bullet.

[0442] After the physical reticle is zeroed, the digital reticle must also be zeroed. Because the digital reticle is formed by an active or digital display with a fixed position, the only way to zero or align the digital reticle is by digital means. The position of the digital reticle can be moved by the user so that the center of the digital reticle coincides with the center of the physical reticle.

[0443] In another embodiment, digital zeroing can also be used in conjunction with a laser designator. When used in conjunction with an external laser rangefinder, the laser designator on the viewing optics must be aligned with the direction the laser rangefinder is pointing. Most external laser rangefinders have a visible laser and an infrared laser. The infrared laser is the laser that actually measures distance. The visible laser can be turned on and off and matches the aim of the infrared laser. The visible laser allows the user to see where the laser is aimed. When the visible laser is on, the user can digitally adjust the laser designator to match the aim point of the visible laser. The visible laser can then be turned off, and the user can use the laser designator in the viewing optics display to ensure accurate aim of the laser rangefinder.

[0444] 2. Holographic Waveguide In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument having a main body with a first optical system and a base with an active display and a holographic waveguide. In one embodiment, the integration of the holographic waveguide reduces the package size and weight of conventional beam combining systems. The integration of the holographic waveguide can increase the overall transmitted brightness ratio so that a greater proportion of the light from each optical system reaches the end user.

[0445] 49 is a representative diagram of observation optics 4900 with optics within main body 4910, a base with active display 1210, and a holographic waveguide system 4925. Holographic waveguide system 4925 spans main body 4910 as well as base 4920. Digital display or active display 1210 generates an image on collimation optics 4930, which sends this image to input hologram waveguide 4926. This image exits the waveguide via output hologram 4927 and is introduced into the first focal plane 4930 of optical system 4940.

[0446] In one embodiment, the integration of a holographic waveguide reduces the need for special coatings on the beam combiner. Additionally, the integration of a holographic waveguide eliminates the need for mirror systems and reduces the need for complex mechanical alignment systems.

[0447] The integration of holographic waveguides allows for the creation of a replica of the complex optics required to image the display, eliminating the need for complex systems to be present in every system.

[0448] The integration of holographic waveguides allows for the use of LCOS, LCD and OLED systems to display information within the optical system. Due to the nature of the system, different types of illumination systems can be used in conjunction with the different types of displays used within the system.

[0449] The use of holographic waveguides allows for the implementation of non-static illuminated reticles, which can change as the image on the screen changes. Holographic waveguides eliminate the need for traditional illumination methods, enabling daylight bright reticle systems.

[0450] The integration of holographic waveguides creates the ability to generate non-static holographic fields. Output-coupling holograms can direct light defined by the master optics, allowing for the aiming picture of the holographic field to change.

[0451] The integration of holographic waveguides can be used with any monochromatic or polychromatic light source. The use of complex multiplexed Bragg grids allows the integration of polychromatic illumination systems.

[0452] 3. Bullet Trajectory Tracking One of the difficulties associated with long-range engagements is the ability to determine the accuracy of the first shot so that timely corrections can be made to improve the accuracy of the next shot. Traditional techniques used to determine the round's point of impact involve attempting to detect the bullet trail and / or the actual bullet scattering point, which can be difficult in many long-range engagements. In the case of a sniper team, follow-up fire also requires feedback from the observer to transmit appropriate data back to the shooter, which can take several seconds using only verbal communication.

[0453] In one embodiment, the observation optics may have an image sensor adapted to detect image frames relating to the bullet's flight path and transmit these image frames to a computing device, where the computing device may calculate the bullet's trajectory from these image frames.

[0454] In one embodiment, a viewing optic having a main body and a base with an integrated display system can detect tracer bullets with built-in image processing to determine the trajectory of the bullet just before it impacts the target area. In one embodiment, this data can be transmitted back to a ballistic computer to quickly and efficiently generate a follow-up fire solution for a second round, which can be transmitted to an active display with a revised aim point superimposed on the first focal plane of the viewing optic's main body.

[0455] Automating a feedback loop with computerized trajectory and splash point detection, coupled with an active display, and superimposing electronic aimpoint corrections on the primary focal plane advantageously reduces the total time required to deliver an accurate second shot. This reduction in time can be crucial in the process of engagement. After the first shot is fired, the window of opportunity for a second shot can quickly narrow, especially if it is delayed beyond the time the sonic boom of the first shot reaches the intended target.

[0456] Environmental conditions and windage drift can significantly affect a round's ballistic trajectory over long distances. For example, an M193 bullet can drift by approximately 4 feet at 500 yards in a moderate 10 mph crosswind. Because bullet velocity decreases as the range and total time of flight increases, the effects of windage become even more exaggerated at greater distances.

[0457] A variety of tracer options are available. Standard tracers are traditionally used by shooters to determine the trajectory of a bullet within its flight path. Tracer bullets can emit light in the visible or IR spectrum, depending on the composition of the tracer material. The latter is useful if the shooter is using night vision equipment. Additionally, some tracers may initially emit a faint glow that brightens as the round progresses along the distance. A fuse element can control the timing of the tracer glow after the round is fired, delaying the ignition of the tracer material until the bullet has progressed far enough along the distance. The fuse delay reduces the risk that the tracer will reveal the shooter's firing position.

[0458] In one embodiment, observation optics with an integrated display system can use tracer rounds to detect, determine, and / or display the trajectory of a bullet immediately prior to impact with a target area. In one embodiment, a covert tracer having a long-delay fuse and emitting light in the near-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum (700-1000 nm) can be used. Light emitted in the near-infrared region is invisible to the human eye but can be detected by imaging sensors using conventional glass optics. This type of tracer round can be particularly useful in maintaining the shooter's stealth for sniper operations while providing automated bullet tracking capabilities critical for accurately determining next-fire correction requirements. Thus, various embodiments are adapted to work with one or more tracer rounds to implement the functionality described herein.

[0459] Because the imaging sensor of the daylight embodiment is also sensitive to visible light, standard daylight tracers can also be used for bullet tracking. In both the visible and near-infrared cases, tracer bullets can take advantage of having long delay fuses for increased stealth, since the system only needs to detect the bullet's flight at the last moment before impact.

[0460] In one embodiment, a camera associated with the observation optics can record the trajectory of the bullet, and a set of sensors embedded in the observation optics can be used to calculate the exact geolocational trajectory of the bullet, as well as the point of impact of the bullet.

[0461] In another embodiment, the sighting optics can also use a stabilized camera to compensate for recoil from the firearm. The sighting optics will accurately track the movement of the stabilized camera and compensate for that movement to accurately calculate the geolocational trajectory of the bullet. This embodiment allows the shooter to accurately track his or her own trajectory and more accurately correct for any mistakes.

[0462] In both embodiments, the geolocational trajectory of the bullet can then be shared with other users who also activate a display on their own device, such as another riflescope, spotting scope, or goggles that uses microdisplay or holographic technology to display the trajectory in their field of view.

[0463] In one embodiment, bullet trajectory tracking incorporates capturing video frame images of a glowing, in-flight tracer bullet. The spatial location of the bullet within a selected image frame is extracted by image processing techniques and then correlated with data from other video frames to establish the bullet's trajectory.

[0464] Image frames are selected for processing based on their correlation with a firing event. When a bullet is fired from a weapon, the time of muzzle exit is immediately determined by processing accelerometer data obtained from an on-board weapon axis accelerometer included in various embodiments. A correlation window is then initiated from the muzzle exit time, at which point various embodiments begin frame-by-frame processing of the video image to identify a small cluster of pixels associated with a tracer bullet at a specific XY location in space. Because the bullet passes through a small number of individual pixels in the XY frame, frame images can be captured with an exposure time optimized to capture the bullet. Knowing the camera frame rate and muzzle exit time, the distance of the bullet from the weapon in each frame can be established using the bullet's known flight characteristics. This data is contained in on-board tables associated with each weapon and its associated round, or alternatively, is received from tactical network communications with the weapon sight.

[0465] If the absolute distance to the target is known from laser rangefinder measurements, the round's position at the target distance can be calculated by determining the point on the trajectory that corresponds to that target distance. The advantage of this technique is that the measurements are made from in-flight data and are not dependent on the bullet impacting a physical surface. The calculated position will correspond to elevation and azimuth angles relative to the weapon's position and can be used to determine the ballistic pointing corrections needed to improve accuracy. As part of this next-shot ballistic correction calculation, various embodiments use inertial pointing angle data to calculate a relative reference point between the gun's inertial pointing angle at muzzle exit and the pointing angle at flight. This allows the calculation to account for any angular motion of the gun that occurred during the bullet's flight time to the target distance.

[0466] 4. Additional Configuration 50 shows an alternative embodiment of a riflescope 5000 having a scope body 5005 and a compartment or notch 5010 on top of the scope body 5005. The compartment 5010 has an integrated display system with an active display 5015 and collector optics 5020. The integrated display system is oriented so that the display 5015 and collector optics 5020 are parallel to the beam combiner 5025. In this embodiment, no reflective surfaces such as mirrors are required.

[0467] Figure 51 shows an alternative embodiment of a riflescope 5000 having a scope body 5005 and a compartment or notch 5010 on top of the scope body 5005. The compartment 5010 has an integrated display system including an active display 5105, collector optics 5110, and a mirror 5115. The integrated display system is oriented so that the display 5115 and collector optics 5110 are perpendicular to the beam combiner 5025. In Figure 51, the active display 5105 is closer to the eyepiece system than to the objective system of the viewing optics.

[0468] Figure 52 shows an alternative embodiment of a riflescope 5000 having a scope body 5005 and a compartment or notch 5010 on top of the scope body 5005. The compartment 5010 has an integrated display system including an active display 5105, collector optics 5110, and a mirror 5115. The integrated display system is oriented so that the display 5115 and collector optics 5110 are perpendicular to the beam combiner 5025. In Figure 52, the active display 5105 is closer to the objective lens system than to the eyepiece lens system of the viewing optics.

[0469] The generated image from the active display 5105 is directed onto a mirror and combined with an image of the scene viewed by the observer through the viewing optics using a beam combiner 5025 within the scope body 5005, allowing the generated image and the observed image to be simultaneously superimposed or overlapped, and the combined image is introduced into a first focal plane. Because the beam combiner 5025 is positioned before the first focal plane 1510 and the combined image is focused onto the first focal plane, the generated image and the observed image do not move relative to each other. This is a significant improvement over devices that introduce an image into a second focal plane.

[0470] In yet another alternative embodiment, the viewing optics has a scope body and a separable base with an active display and collector optics, where the active display and collector optics are parallel to the beam combiner. In this embodiment, no reflective surfaces such as mirrors are required. The base mates with the bottom of the main body of the viewing optics.

[0471] The generated image from the microdisplay 5105 can be combined with an image of the scene viewed by the observer through the viewing optics using a beam combiner within the scope body to simultaneously superimpose or overlap the generated image and the observed image, and the combined image is introduced into a first focal plane. Because the beam combiner is positioned before the first focal plane and the combined image is focused onto the first focal plane, the generated image and the observed image do not move relative to each other. This is a significant improvement over devices that introduce an image into a second focal plane.

[0472] The optical sights and methods disclosed herein may be a display or viewing apparatus, device, sight, or scope for, on, or as part of, or as an add-on accessory to, a weapon, gun, rifle, laser target locator, rangefinder, etc. Embodiments may be mounted on a weapon or apparatus, or may be handheld or helmet mounted.

[0473] V. Observation optics with advanced reticle features A. Active display patterns based on magnification settings In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optical instrument having a main body and a base with an integrated display system, the active display of which generates a plurality of reticle patterns projected onto a first focal plane of a field of view.

[0474] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optical instrument having a main body and a base with an integrated display system, an active display of which generates a reticle pattern based on a magnification level.

[0475] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic having a main body with one or more sensors capable of tracking or monitoring the magnification level of the viewing optic and a base with an integrated display system, wherein an active display of the integrated display system generates a reticle pattern based on the magnification level. Depending on the magnification level, the active display system can generate different reticle patterns optimized for different optical magnification levels. In one embodiment, the active display of the integrated display system can automatically switch reticle patterns based on the magnification level.

[0476] In one embodiment, viewing optics with an integrated display system can project a digital signature or aim point that is optimized for the particular magnification setting being used.

[0477] In one embodiment, the main body of the viewing optics has a sensor associated with the magnification adjustment mechanism of the aiming device for generating a signal indicative of an adjustment of the optical magnification of the viewing optics. The viewing optics further includes an electronic controller in communication with the sensor and the active display of the integrated display system. The electronic controller, in response to the signal generated by the sensor, communicates with the active display to generate a reticle pattern that is superimposed on an image of a distant object and is viewable through the eyepiece within the field of view.

[0478] In some embodiments, the electronic controller and active display are configured to generate a first reticle pattern, such as a close combat reticle pattern, in response to a signal indicating a first magnification setting, and to generate a second reticle pattern, different from the first reticle pattern, in response to a signal indicating a second magnification setting greater than the first magnification setting. For example, the second reticle pattern can be a long-range reticle pattern, such as a sniper reticle.

[0479] In some embodiments, the sensor may include an electromechanical or optical digital encoder (which may be rotary or linear), a potentiometer, a combination of one or more magnets and one or more Hall effect sensors, or other suitable device operable to sense the position or movement of the magnification adjustment mechanism and generate a corresponding electrical signal. In one embodiment, the sensor is depicted in FIGS. 69 and 70.

[0480] In one embodiment, the active display is not within the main body of the viewing optics.

[0481] In one embodiment, the one or more reticle patterns can be selected from a number of patterns including, but not limited to, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and 21 or more patterns. In one embodiment, a viewing optic with an integrated display system can select from among at least 10, or at least 20, or at least 30, or at least 40, or at least 50 reticle patterns.

[0482] In one embodiment, the active display of the integrated display system projects a reticle pattern based on a particular magnification setting onto a first focal plane of the field of view. When the magnification setting is changed, the reticle pattern generated from the active display switches so that the aim point is immediately useful to the operator. The reticle switching can be based on the magnification setting.

[0483] By way of example and not limitation, at a 1X magnification setting, the active display may produce a small center dot projected onto the first focal plane. When the magnification is changed to 8X, the active display produces a crosshair pattern with a long-distance holdover dot projected onto the first focal plane. A sensor determines the change in magnification and communicates this to a controller, which then changes the reticle pattern on the active display.

[0484] In one embodiment, the viewing optics with integrated display system projects information and aim points designed to assist the operator in engaging targets at short and long ranges. In one embodiment, multiple "pages" of information or reticle patterns can be designed and loaded into the system, with different pages being displayed depending on the magnification setting.

[0485] In one embodiment, the reticle pattern from the active display is projected onto an etched reticle in the first focal plane. Projecting the digital reticle onto an etched or fixed reticle provides the necessary protection in case of a system failure.

[0486] Figure 53 is a representative diagram of a close combat reticle 5300 at 1X magnification. The arcuate heavy line 5305, main horizontal line 5307, main vertical line 5309, numbers, and arrows are components of the etched reticle. The center dot 5310 is generated from the active display of the integrated display system. This type of reticle is used for close combat, and the center dot represents an aiming point for rapid target acquisition.

[0487] Figure 54 is a schematic diagram of the reticle of Figure 53, but with the viewing optics set at 8x magnification. As shown, the center dot 5310 projected from the active display is noticeably large at 8x magnification.

[0488] Figure 55 is a representative diagram of a reticle pattern 5500 that provides useful information when the viewing optics are set to an 8X magnification setting. The arcuate heavy line 5502, the main horizontal line 5504, the main vertical line 5506, the numbers and arrows represent the etched reticle. The central aim point 5510, the six ballistic compensation windage dots 5520, and the upper left square 5530 showing the rangefinder designator that displays the virtual distance to the target are components generated by the active display.

[0489] FIG. 56 is a representative view of a reticle pattern 5500 at a low magnification setting.

[0490] 53-56, at an optical magnification setting of 1X, reticle pattern 5300 includes a first set of multiple marks 5310 (such as circles and / or aiming dots) generated from an active display and projected onto a first focal plane reticle, along with etched reticle features 5305, 5307, and 5309. Preferably, reticle pattern 5300 formed at least in part by first set of marks 5310 is a type of close quarters combat reticle (CQB reticle) having minimal marks to provide a less cluttered viewing area, as shown in FIG.

[0491] As the optical magnification setting increases, the electronic controller and active display (in response to signals received from a sensor, including but not limited to the sensors described in Figures 69 and 70) replace / alter / swap the first reticle pattern with a second set of marks, which (at least in part) form a second reticle pattern 5500 that is different from the first reticle pattern 5300 and typically includes at least some different features.

[0492] For example, the second reticle pattern may include different aiming features and additional marks, such as those associated with distance estimation, windage and elevation adjustment calculations, or other suitable marks commonly used in range finding reticles such as those shown in FIG. 55.

[0493] It would therefore prove very useful to generate multiple "pages" of features and reticle patterns for the active display, store these in a memory system, and automatically switch between reticle patterns when the operator changes the magnification setting of the viewing optics.

[0494] B. Active BDC reticle Ballistic Drop Compensation (BDC) reticles are designed to place hash marks in the vertical crosshairs that are positioned below the horizontal crosshairs. These hash marks are designed to closely match a specific ballistic profile or set of profiles at a specific distance to be attempted.

[0495] However, current BDC reticle designs are fixed designs. This is because the reticle is manufactured using wire, metal, or etched glass. Once the reticle is manufactured and installed in the riflescope, it cannot be changed without removing it and installing a new one, which can only be accomplished by sending the scope back to the manufacturer.

[0496] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optical instrument having a main body with an optical system and a base having an integrated display system with an active display that can generate a BDC reticle that can be manually changed at any time by a user or, further, automatically changed in real time by the viewing optical instrument's software and sensors.

[0497] To create a BDC reticle for the sighting optics disclosed herein, the riflescope can be programmed for the specific ballistic profile of the rifle and the cartridge fired. The sighting optic then has sensors for temperature, pressure, humidity, cant angle, tilt angle, etc., as described above, which can help provide real-time updates to the BDC reticle so that it is as accurate as possible for all conditions. This allows the BDC reticle to be customized for each rifle and specific shooting conditions.

[0498] With the BDC reticle generated in real time by the active display, the shooter has an accurate system for accurate and rapid firing at various distances.

[0499] As shown in Figure 57, reticle 5700 has a standard etch and fill portion, including numeric markings and hash marks along major horizontal lines 5702, major vertical lines 5704, and major vertical crosshairs. Reticle 5700 also has patterns and marks generated by an active display and projected onto the first focal plane reticle. The active display marks in this form of BDC reticle include numeric markings 5710 (100 to 900 on the vertical axis in the third and fourth quadrants). This portion is projected from a digital display, so it can be updated in real time.

[0500] In addition to the active BDC reticle, the user / shooter may find themselves in a position to provide cover for other elements in areas where targets may appear rapidly and at various distances. For example, a sniper may be on top of a building overlooking an alley or road with a cross street or entrance / exit. The active display can be used in conjunction with various sensors built into the riflescope, such as compass, cant angle, tilt angle, GPS, etc., to accurately determine the direction the riflescope is pointing.

[0501] Using observation optics with environmental sensors, an integrated display system with an active display for generating and projecting a BDC reticle onto a first focal plane, and a rangefinder, a user can aim at known landmarks such as doors, windows, cars, etc., and place distance markers on those landmarks using the controller and active display. These distance markers are projected onto the first focal plane and are visible through the observation optics. The environmental sensor allows the user to move the observation optics to observe a different target, while the distance markers remain on the target.

[0502] FIG. 58 is a representative image of a BDC reticle generated by an active display and projected onto a first focal plane reticle, displaying the distance to a potential target. A viewing optic having a main body with an environmental sensor and a base with an integrated display system with an active display for generating a BDC reticle allows a user to mark multiple targets within one or more areas with distance indication. In this case, if a target appears near the target marker, the user can quickly determine the distance to the target without having to aim down the sights on the target. The user can then quickly position and align the active BDC reticle.

[0503] C. Reticle that compensates for firearm cant With traditional riflescopes, when shooting at long distances, it is important that the firearm and scope are level when firing. As a bullet travels long distances, it is affected by gravity to an extent that the shooter must take into account. Gravity pulls the bullet consistently toward the ground, causing "bullet drop." Shooters compensate for this bullet drop by aiming higher than the target so that the bullet has dropped to the appropriate height to hit the target by the time it reaches it.

[0504] Figure 59 is a typical illustration of a cant angle. It can be seen that the triangle is a right triangle with a 10° angle at the top and a right angle at the bottom. The 10 milliradian side is the hypotenuse, which is the side of the triangle, and represents the inclined vertical cross section of the crosshair. However, gravity acts on the vertical side of the triangle.

[0505] Using trigonometry, we can solve for the length of the perpendicular side with the following formula: Cos10° = x / 10 milliradians. Solving for x results in 9.85 milliradians. So in this example, the user / shooter may have held or dialed in 10 milliradians, but only offset the shot by 9.85 milliradians. At long range, this is enough to miss the target.

[0506] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic with an integrated display system that uses an active display to generate a reticle that can compensate for the cant of a firearm, allowing a user to seamlessly perform long-range shooting without worrying about cant angles.

[0507] In a traditional riflescope, the reticle is a physical crosshair that is either metal, wire, or a pattern permanently etched onto glass. This means that the cant of the reticle is always fixed. However, with active display technology that generates a real-time reticle, the digital reticle can be changed at any time by overlaying it on top of the passive image. In one embodiment, the viewing optics has an internal cant sensor that can instantly orient the reticle generated by the active display to correct for the cant angle.

[0508] FIG. 60 is a representative diagram of a reticle 6000 in which marks and patterns are oriented for cant and generated by the active display of an integrated display system. The primary horizontal line 6002 and the primary vertical line 6004 are provided by a passive, etched, or fixed reticle. The aim point generated by the active reticle 6020 compensates for cant and is projected or superimposed on the passive reticle. The pivot point 6010 is at the center of the reticle. In this case, the electronic controller / microcontroller will use information collected from the cant and tilt angle sensors, apply software logic, and communicate with the active display to adjust the aim point 6020 of the generated image to reflect the new zero position, related geometry, and hold point corresponding to the firearm's current orientation. The user will shoot with a digital reticle generated by the active display instead of a passive or fixed reticle.

[0509] In another embodiment, the active display of the integrated display system can generate a digital reticle that corrects for cant and compensates for up-tilt or down-tilt shooting by adjusting the aim point on the digital reticle up or down, thereby eliminating the need for cosine indicators that are often used to compensate for shooting in these types of situations.

[0510] D. Digital reticle with drift indicator In conventional riflescopes, reticles with wind indicators are typically glass-etched reticles. Often, these reticles have a grid pattern or a row of dots that allow the user to have a reference point to use for aiming and compensating for wind speed. The problem with these reticles is that because they are physically and permanently etched onto a piece of glass, their shape and size are fixed.

[0511] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic having a main body and a base with an integrated display system having an active display for generating a digital reticle that uses a windage indicator to compensate for range to a target. In one embodiment, the digital reticle is overlaid on a passive reticle. By using a digital reticle overlaid on a passive reticle, the viewing optic can have a reticle that can adapt its windhold in real time to the trajectory, distance, and environment of a particular situation.

[0512] Generally, the longer the distance, the greater the effect crosswinds have on a bullet. With a digital reticle, the windhold can be made wider as the distance increases to compensate for the wind value at a particular distance to the target.

[0513] Figure 61 is a representative diagram of a reticle 6100. Multiple components or markers are provided by a passive reticle including a primary horizontal crosshair 6102 and a primary vertical crosshair 6104. The active display of the integrated display system generates and projects a target 6105 ranged to 500 yards and a windhold 6110 for specific conditions. The ends of the secondary horizontal lines (crossing the primary vertical lines) are equivalent to a 5 mph drift, the next dot is 10 mph, and the outermost dot is 15 mph. The images 6105 and 6110 generated from the active display are superimposed on the passive reticle.

[0514] Figure 62 is a representative diagram of a reticle 6200. Multiple components or markers are provided by a passive reticle including a primary horizontal crosshair 6202 and a primary vertical crosshair 6204. The active display of the integrated display system generates and projects a target 6210 ranged to 1000 yards and a windhold 6220 for specific conditions. The extreme horizon (across the primary vertical) is equivalent to a 5 mph drift, the next dot is 10 mph, and the outermost dot is 15 mph. The images 6210 and 6220 generated from the active display are superimposed on the passive reticle. It can be seen that the secondary horizontal line 6220 extends wider and the windholds are spread further on either side compared to the 500-yard solution (Figure 61) to compensate for the additional drift induced as the bullet travels longer distances.

[0515] E. Reticle with central grid for second-fire correction Traditionally, passive reticles have been designed to allow the shooter to have many reference points for shooting in a variety of conditions and trajectories. However, because the variety of conditions and trajectories varies so widely, these reticles have tended to have many features on the reticle, such as lines or grids of dots, that cause the reticle to appear cluttered or busy to the user.

[0516] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a reticle system that includes a digital reticle that is generated by an active display and overlaid on a passive reticle. The use of a digital reticle allows information to be displayed appropriately as needed, eliminating the need to display certain information on the passive reticle, thereby providing a cleaner or more easily distinguishable passive reticle.

[0517] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to viewing optics having a passive or analog reticle designed to function most efficiently in conjunction with an active reticle. Active reticle technology allows the viewing optic to perform complex calculations and display a ballistic solution to the user. Typically, the ballistic solution is not centered in the field of view or in the center of the passive reticle's crosshairs. This gives the user the option of either holding the center over the ballistic solution or rotating the turret and firing until the ballistic solution is centered in the field of view and centered in the passive crosshairs.

[0518] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to viewing optics with analog and digital reticles that allow the shooter to make the most effective and efficient second fire corrections while minimizing the obstruction of the field of view caused by previous passive reticles that use extensive grids of lines and dots.

[0519] Figure 63 is a representative illustration of a wide-angle view of a reticle 6300 at low magnification. A less obtrusive row of dots is used below the horizontal crosshairs. This passive reticle can be used as a backup if the viewing optics' battery power or electronics fail and the active display cannot be produced.

[0520] Figure 64 is a representative illustration of a close-up view of the central portion of the reticle 6400. Figure 64 provides a higher magnification view. This image shows a small grid 6410 generated by the active display of the integrated display system and positioned in the center of the reticle. This allows the user to make precise measurements of first shot impact locations to make precise second shot corrections.

[0521] In one embodiment, the grid 6410 generated by the active display is wider than it is tall. This is specifically designed because calculating the elevation of impact for the first shot is more accurate than estimating drift. In this embodiment, the small positive features of the small grid are very fine features that are not illuminated, allowing for extremely precise measurements.

[0522] Active or digital reticles require very close first shot acquisition, so the central grid can be much smaller than a typical passive reticle, which requires a large grid that covers a significant portion of the field of view below the horizontal crosshairs.

[0523] VI. Automatic Brightness Adjustment As discussed throughout this application, an integrated display system allows a digital image generated by an active display to be superimposed on an image of an external scene. The active display is introduced to the image of the external scene using an illuminated portion of the display. To maximize the usability of the display, it is desirable to have a high contrast ratio between the luminance of the passive scene and the luminance of the illuminated display so that both are easily visible. If the display is too dark, the user cannot see. If the display is too bright, the display will overwhelm the passive scene.

[0524] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optical instrument having a main body with an integrated display system and a light sensor capable of detecting and compensating for the brightness of a particular target.

[0525] Figure 71 shows a representative schematic diagram of observation optics 7000, including a main body 7005 and a base 7010 coupled to the main body. The main body 7005 includes optics for observing an image of an external scene and a beam combiner 7020, above which a photosensor 7025 and an optical filter 7030 are positioned. This allows the photosensor to view the target scene directly without obstructions in its field of view. The base 7010 includes an integrated display system 7015 with an active display for generating an image that is projected onto a first focal plane of the observation optics.

[0526] The photosensor 7025 and light filter 7030 create a high contrast ratio between the brightness of the image of the external scene and the brightness of the image produced from the active display.

[0527] In one embodiment, the transmission band of the filter in front of the photosensor can be adjusted to be narrow enough so that only the brightness of the target is measured, and not additional light from the display system that would distort the measurement.

[0528] VII. Optical observation equipment with automatic distance measurement capabilities In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optics with an integrated display system that incorporates the use of a camera to assist in automatic ranging. In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a system that includes a viewing optics with an integrated display system, a camera to assist in automatic ranging, and a laser rangefinder.

[0529] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optics with an integrated display system and a camera incorporating image recognition technology. The systems and methods disclosed herein significantly increase the speed at which target solutions are obtained, eliminating the need for button presses that can affect the aimpoint. Additionally, the systems and methods disclosed herein integrate artificial intelligence into the system to determine the quality of the ranged target solutions.

[0530] In one embodiment, the viewing optics includes a camera incorporating image recognition technology, which in one embodiment can be mounted on either the viewing optics with an integrated display system or on the firearm and point in the direction of the riflescope's aim point.

[0531] In one embodiment, the camera has artificial intelligence for detecting targets and communicating with the active display of the integrated display system to highlight the targets. In another embodiment, the artificial intelligence system can be incorporated into the observation optics. In one embodiment, the artificial intelligence system can be located in a base coupled to the main body of the observation optics.

[0532] In another embodiment, a thermal imaging camera lacking image recognition technology can be used. This allows a thermal image to be transmitted to an active display and superimposed on an image of the external scene within the viewing optics. The viewing optics can be programmed to display only "hot spots" of interest. For example, hot spots could indicate the heat of a person or a vehicle. By eliminating artificial intelligence, the system consumes significantly less power. Furthermore, all appropriate hot spots appear within the field of view, allowing the user to evaluate each hot spot to determine whether it is a valid target.

[0533] After identifying a valid target, the user simply moves the viewing optics so that the LRF designator in the field of view is over the desired hotspot. As soon as the LRF designator is aligned with the hotspot, the system automatically activates the LRF to acquire the hotspot distance. After acquiring the distance, the viewing optics can display a hold point for the target distance or simply indicate the distance, and the user can use the active BDC mode to hold on the active BDC reticle for the appropriate measured distance to the target.

[0534] An added feature to the system is that it can automatically detect if the hotspot remains in the LRF designator long enough to obtain a valid range. If not, it will wait to display the range until the hotspot has remained in the LRF designator long enough to achieve a valid target acquisition before displaying the solution. This eliminates the second problem with button presses.

[0535] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to techniques and methods involving the use of an overlaid camera image projected onto a first focal plane of viewing optics, and using this image in conjunction with an LRF designator to automatically range targets.

[0536] VIII. Observation optics equipped with photosensors to save power In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optics with an integrated display system and a power saving system. In one embodiment, the power saving system can be located in a base coupled to a main body of the viewing optics. In one embodiment, the power saving system includes a proximity sensor. In one embodiment, the proximity sensor is in communication with a microcontroller.

[0537] In one embodiment, the power saving system can be used to put the viewing optics into a sleep or standby mode when a user / operator is not looking through the viewing optics. In one embodiment, the system and mechanism can wake or activate the viewing optics when a user / operator is detected behind the eyepiece of the viewing optics.

[0538] The current method of putting the electronics to sleep or standby is by using a "time-out" feature, but this is disadvantageous when the sighting optic is being used in close combat missions because the sighting optic must remain on for an indeterminate amount of time as long as there is an operator looking through it. An accelerometer can also be used to detect movement and turn the system on. The drawback to this method is that if the operator is observing, the gun can go to sleep with little movement for an extended period of time, even though the operator is still looking through the sighting optic.

[0539] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a system for conserving battery power by turning on viewing optics when there is a detected operator presence behind the eyepiece of the viewing optics.

[0540] In one embodiment, the power saving system can be used with any electro-optical device that is compatible with mounting a proximity sensor within a few inches of the operator's face when using the viewing optics.

[0541] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic having a main body and a base coupled to the main body, the base having a window on a back surface of the base facing toward the eyepiece.

[0542] In one embodiment, the base has a proximity sensor mounted on the carrier, which is mounted in a window located on the end of the base facing the eyepiece. The proximity sensor can transmit a signal to a microcontroller in the base or main body when it detects a reflection within a few inches of the window. The distance at which an object activates the sensor can be adjusted at the factory, or software options can be built into the user interface to allow an operator to adjust the sensitivity of the sensor or disable / enable the automatic sleep / standby feature.

[0543] Figure 72 is a representative diagram of a viewing optic 7200 having a base 7205. A window 7210 is located in the base 7205, facing the eyepiece of the main body of the viewing optic. A proximity sensor and carrier 7215 is located within the window 7210 and is positioned below the eyepiece.

[0544] 73 and 74 are representative diagrams of a viewing optic 7200 having a base with a power saving system, with the viewing optic mounted on a rifle. It can be seen that the operator's face is within a few inches of the back of the viewing optic. A sensor 7215 in the base 7205 of the viewing optic 7200 detects a reflection from the operator's face, thereby waking the viewing optic from sleep mode. When the operator moves their head from the viewing position, the sensor no longer sees a reflection, causing the viewing optic to go into sleep or standby mode.

[0545] IX. Observation optics with power rails In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic having a main body and a base with an integrated display system, the viewing optic being capable of being powered from an external power source housed in a host firearm. In one embodiment, the viewing optic has a main body and a base coupled to the main body, with an electrical pin integrated into the base for providing power to the viewing optic from the firearm. In another embodiment, the viewing optic can be powered from the firearm using an electrical pin integrated into a remote keypad assembly.

[0546] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method and system for providing additional power to viewing optics for extended periods of time.

[0547] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic that includes a main body and a base coupled to the main body, the base having a PCB used to control the display, sensors, and user interface of the viewing optic. In one embodiment, the base has a power input pin protruding therethrough and contacting a power pad. In one embodiment, the power pad is integrated into a Picatinny rail.

[0548] In one embodiment, the PCB is positioned to allow interaction with the input pin, which in one embodiment is sealed to the base of the riflescope to keep the interior of the riflescope protected from the environment.

[0549] 75 and 76 are representative views of a viewing optic 7500 having a main body and a base 7510 with a power pin 7520 protruding through the base 7510. FIG.

[0550] FIG. 77 is a representative side profile of the viewing optics 7500 showing the power pins 7520 protruding through the base 7510 of the viewing optics 7500.

[0551] FIG. 78 is a representative view of a side profile of the viewing optics 7500 with the base of the viewing optics made transparent to reveal the power pins 7520 attached to the integrated PCB 7530.

[0552] In another embodiment, power provided by the Picatinny rail on the firearm can be delivered to the sighting optic via the remote keypad used to control the sighting optic. In this scenario, the power pins are connected to a PCB within the remote keypad and protrude through the built-in recoil lug within the remote keypad housing. In this case, power is sent to the base of the riflescope through two dedicated wires within the cable.

[0553] FIG. 79 is a representative image of the top surface of a remote keypad 7900.

[0554] FIG. 80 is a representative side profile of the remote keypad 7900 showing the power pin 8010 protruding through the internal recoil lug.

[0555] FIG. 81 is a representative bottom view of the remote keypad 7900 showing two power pins 8010 protruding through the internal recoil lug.

[0556] FIG. 82 is a representative bottom view of the remote keypad 7900 with the cover transparent to reveal the PCB 8205 inside the remote body.

[0557] X. Viewing optics having a single keypad with multiple functions - Patent Application 20070122967 In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a system including a viewing optics having an integrated display system and a remote keypad system with two or more functions per keypad button. In one embodiment, the remote keypad can control two or more aspects of the viewing optics' functionality, i.e., two or more functions per button. In one embodiment, the function of a button depends on the state of either a control signal or a software bit.

[0558] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a remote keypad that expands the control a user / operator has over viewing optics and / or auxiliary devices used with the viewing optics.

[0559] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a keypad for a viewing optic and / or one or more auxiliary devices used with the viewing optic. In one embodiment, two or more functions can be assigned to a single button on the keypad, with the desired function determined by a software bit or a separate mechanical switch. This can significantly increase the functionality of the viewing optic.

[0560] In one exemplary embodiment, in a first mode, the button can change the brightness of the display, and in a second mode, the same button can activate an infrared pointer on the system. By using the same button for more than one function, the number of buttons required can be minimized, keeping the remote keypad small and simple.

[0561] Figure 83 is a representative diagram of a three-button keypad. The remote keypad associated with the viewing optics has three buttons. The top button 8305 is used to increase the brightness of the display, the middle button 8310 is used to activate the laser rangefinder to measure the range of a target, and the bottom button 8315 is used to decrease the brightness of the display. The function of each button depends on the mode of operation.

[0562] In one embodiment, the keypad can have 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more than 10 modes of operation. In one embodiment, the keypad can be in communication with a processor that sets 10 to 50 modes of operation for the keypad. As an example, a keypad in communication with a processor that has 10 modes of operation for the keypad provides 10 functions for each button, which functions will be determined by the mode of operation.

[0563] The button functions can be changed using several methods. In one embodiment, a user / operator can press and hold a button on the remote keypad for a certain amount of time, which causes the microcontroller to change the function of one or more buttons. In one embodiment, the operator can press and hold one of three buttons for an extended period of time, such as one second, which signals the microcontroller within the viewing optics to change a bit that assigns the button a new function. In one embodiment, pressing and holding the top button 8305 for a certain amount of time can set Mode A, pressing and holding the middle button 8310 for a certain amount of time can set Mode B, and pressing and holding the bottom button 8315 for a certain amount of time can set Mode C. Varying the amount of time each button is engaged can activate additional modes of operation. For example, holding button 8305 for five seconds can activate Mode A, and engaging button 8305 with five quick taps can activate Mode F.

[0564] In another embodiment, the functionality of the remote keypad buttons can be changed via separate mechanical switches on the viewing optics. In one embodiment, the mechanical switch can have three different positions, which communicate with three different bits or programs in the microcontroller. These bits or programs can be used to assign different functions to the remote keypad buttons.

[0565] A representative example is shown in FIG. 84. The observation optics has a switch 8400 that communicates with a remote keypad 8300. At a first setting point 8405, the top button 8305 of the remote keypad 8300 can be assigned the function of increasing the brightness of the display, the middle button 8310 can activate a laser rangefinder, and the bottom button 8315 can decrease the brightness of the display. When the mechanical switch 8400 is set to a second setting point 8410, the functions of the top button 8305 and bottom button 8315 can be programmed to turn on / off the auxiliary pointing laser on the observation optics, while the middle button 8310 can still be programmed to activate the laser rangefinder. When the mechanical switch 8400 is set to a third setting point 8415, the functions of the three buttons can be changed again. For example, if the observation optics is equipped with a digital magnetic compass and position and landmark data is stored in the microcontroller's memory, information about the location of objects can be displayed in the field of view of the observation optics (augmented reality data).

[0566] In one embodiment, the keypad communicates with the processor of the sighting optics, which allows various modes of operation to be assigned to each button or switch on the keypad. For example, in one mode of operation, the buttons on the keypad have a specific function for marking targets of interest. An operator can range the target using a laser rangefinder and use orientation data from a digital magnetic compass to "mark" the target of interest within the field of view. Buttons on the keypad can be assigned functions specifically suited to this task.

[0567] The center button on the keypad can be used to activate the laser rangefinder and range the target. Once the target is ranged, the top and bottom buttons can be used to select from a list of predefined descriptive words to classify the target, such as "landmark," "friendly," "enemy," or "unknown." Once the operator has completed this action, they can quickly reassign functions to the remote keypad buttons, allowing them to change brightness settings, activate the infrared laser, or obtain ballistic solutions for the target's range.

[0568] XII. Observation optics with relative coordinate mapping system In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to techniques and methods for using observation optics with an integrated display system to precisely tag and track targets using relative coordinate mapping systems and / or drone technology.

[0569] Soldiers need to be able to pinpoint the location of enemy targets, share this location with other soldiers, close air support, etc., and easily see these targets by overlaying them within the field of view of their primary optics. The most obvious way to accomplish this is with a combination of GPS, compass heading, altitude, tilt, and range sensors. However, relying on GPS has drawbacks, as GPS signals require direct line-of-sight with GPS satellites, which is not always possible. The use of relative coordinate technology and / or drones can reduce the need for GPS. Relative coordinate technology is feasible when used in conjunction with observation optics that have an integrated display system.

[0570] In one embodiment, a user can point a viewing optic with an integrated display system at a landmark or target and "tag" it. If a user "tags" multiple targets, a relative position map can be created from the tagged targets. These tagged targets can be transmitted to other users' viewing optics, who will see the tagged targets displayed in their field of view. All of this target data will then be stored locally in one or more memory devices within the viewing optics.

[0571] In one embodiment, users can also use drones as a substitute for or supplement to tagged targets. This would work by launching a "cloud" of small drones or micro-drones containing cameras and appropriate sensors to fly over the battlefield and begin tagging and marking landmarks. The drones can share this information with each other and return it to the user, who would then display it on the active display of their observation optics.

[0572] The shortcomings of GPS can be overcome by using relative coordinate techniques and / or drone clouds.

[0573] With multiple users and multiple observation optics, there is inherent redundancy in the stored targeting data. Using a drone cloud can further increase that redundancy. With redundancy, the chances of signal or data being lost are much lower. GPS requires data to be transmitted over extremely long distances to orbiting satellites. Using other users in the same battlespace, or a cloud of drones in the same battlespace, the network is closer to users and targets, improving the accuracy of user and target coordinates. GPS is much easier to block due to the limited number of GPS satellites. Clouds of users and / or drones make it much harder to block all signals, increasing redundancy. Eliminating the need for a GPS module reduces the bulk of the observation optical equipment.

[0574] XIII. Observation optics with ammunition status indicator When firing in high-stress situations, a shooter can easily lose track of how many rounds remain in the firearm. Currently, there is no simple or conventional method for determining the number of rounds remaining in a firearm magazine while holding the firearm in a firing position. While a mechanical counter can be added or integrated into the magazine, checking the mechanical counter requires the shooter to look away from the sights and / or the target to check the bullet count. Other current methods and systems for determining the number of rounds in a magazine require the shooter to lose sight picture, physically check the magazine, or otherwise disrupt the shooter's posture or position.

[0575] Some magazines are clear or have a transparent window to show the remaining rounds, but the shooter must shift out of firing position to observe the level. Additionally, the remaining rounds may be obscured by the grip or receiver. In military environments, some shooters load tracer rounds as the last round in a magazine to indicate that the magazine they are using is nearly empty, but this can reveal the shooter's position and requires the use of special rounds.

[0576] Other methods and systems attempt to address this problem by placing digital readouts on the grip, but these readouts project a light rearward toward the shooter and are often located in an area where the shooter must break focus from the aiming picture to view remaining rounds. In some cases, the readout is an attachment to an existing firearm component, requiring the shooter to replace a part, such as the grip, in order to install the readout on the weapon. Some readouts are attached to the bottom of the magazine and may be considered disposable or semi-disposable items, i.e., more expensive items, in some military applications.

[0577] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic with an integrated display system that allows a user / shooter to monitor ammunition status. The ammunition status can be projected onto a first focal plane and combined with an image of the external scene. Proactively performing or preparing a magazine change allows the shooter to reload at a time of their choosing, rather than at a suboptimal time dictated by an empty weapon and magazine.

[0578] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a bullet counter system. In one embodiment, the bullet counter system includes one or more magnets in a magazine or other ammunition loading device and a sensor on or in a weapon for counting bullets in the magazine. In one embodiment, the sensor can be in a remote control attached to the weapon magazine well for counting the last bullet in the magazine. Information can then be displayed via an active display and projected onto a first focal plane of the optical system, allowing simultaneous observation of the generated image (bullet indicator / ammunition status) and an image of the external scene when viewed through the eyepiece of the observation optics.

[0579] In one embodiment, a sighting optic with an integrated display system and bullet counter system can be used by military, law enforcement, competition, or civilian shooters to indicate that they have a certain number of bullets without the user having to lose sight of the target picture through the optic. Furthermore, the shooter can see the last bullet in the magazine without losing focus from the sight picture in the optic, allowing for more continuous target engagement. It also provides the shooter with the opportunity to proactively prepare for or execute a magazine change. Proactively executing or preparing for a magazine change allows the shooter the opportunity to reload at a time of their choosing, rather than at a potentially suboptimal time. As used herein, the terms bullet counter system and ammunition status indicator are used interchangeably.

[0580] In one embodiment, the bullet counter system may include a chamber status indicator, which acts as a safety notification by notifying the user that there is a round in the chamber, which may be particularly useful in bullpup weapons, as visual inspection of the chamber may be difficult in some weapon designs.

[0581] Additionally, the system adds minimal weight because it can use largely existing hardware and does not require significant or expensive modifications to the weapon or weapon magazine.

[0582] In one embodiment, the bullet counter system may be fully integrated into the weapon system or may be a minor, inexpensive modification to an existing weapon system.

[0583] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an observation optic with an integrated display system having an active display and a bullet counter system that projects ammunition status or bullet count onto a first focal plane of the observation optic.

[0584] The bullet counter system disclosed herein differs from previously disclosed devices that use recoil impulse to determine the number of bullets leaving a magazine. Previously disclosed devices typically require the user to press a button or perform another action to notify the system that a new magazine has been loaded. Additionally, previously disclosed systems only count down from a set number. Thus, if a user loads a 30-round magazine and the magazine only contains seven bullets, the previously disclosed device may read that the user has 30 bullets available. This can lead to extremely dangerous consequences. In contrast, the bullet counter system disclosed herein reads the number of bullets remaining in the magazine and does not rely on a bullet countdown. This allows a user to insert a partially loaded magazine and verify the exact number of bullets.

[0585] In one embodiment, the bullet counter disclosed herein is independent of the countdown mechanism.

[0586] In one embodiment, the bullet counter system includes one or more magnets in the ammunition feeder and a magnetic sensor on or within the firearm. When a bullet is fired, the magnet moves and interacts with the magnetic sensor. A signal is sent from the sensor to a processing unit configured to communicate with an integrated display system within the viewing optics.

[0587] The remaining bullets in the ammunition feeder are determined based on the position of the magnet relative to the sensor. The bullet counter system disclosed herein is configured to communicate with an integrated display system that will display the number of bullets remaining to the user without the user having to distract from the aiming picture.

[0588] Figure 91 illustrates one exemplary magazine follower 9110 and magazine 9130 that may be used in the bullet counter system disclosed herein. As shown in Figure 91, one or more compass magnets 9120 are positioned at the rear of the magazine follower 9110. A magnetic field is projected outside the magazine 9130 perpendicular to the rounds in the magazine 9130 to prevent the magnetic field from interfering with the feeding or loading of steel case or armor-piercing steel or other magnetically sensitive chips.

[0589] 92 shows one exemplary sensor that can be used with the bullet counter systems disclosed herein. As bullets are fed through the magazine 9130, the follower 9110, and thus the one or more magnets 9120 contained therein, are raised by a spring as each bullet is stripped from the magazine 9130. A sensor, such as a Hall Effect sensor 9210 on a circuit board 9220, is disposed on the firearm's receiver 9230 to detect magnetic fields, detect changes in the strength of the magnetic field, and detect the changing position of the magnetic field.

[0590] In one embodiment, the sensor then sends a signal to a processing unit, which is used to correlate the follower height in the magazine with the number of bullets remaining. The processing unit is configured to send the information to an active display in the sighting optic, which projects the information onto a first focal plane of an optical train in the body of the sighting optic. The number of bullets remaining is displayed within the shooter's field of view within the optic via an active reticle display.

[0591] In one embodiment, each magnetic sensor generates and transmits an electrical signal in response to the detected magnetic field to a processor 9260, which receives multiple electrical signals from different receptors and associates the number of bullets or cartridges corresponding to the position of the cartridge follower as a function of the received signals.

[0592] The processor executes the program from a series of instructions stored in a memory device. In one embodiment, the memory device may reside on a circuit board that houses the magnetic sensor. The instructions may necessarily be defined differently for different types of magazines as a result of the different technical possibilities of the different types of magazines, such as the number of cartridges they can hold, the storage method (in-line, staggered, etc.), or as a result of the firearm owner's choice.

[0593] As a result, the processor calculates the supply as a function of various types of signals, which can be associated with various numerical values, and depending on the value received, calculates the number of cartridges still held in the magazine.

[0594] Figures 93A, 93B, and 93C show cross-sectional views of a magazine follower 9110 with one or more magnets 9120, a magazine 9130, and Hall effect sensors (9310, 9330, and 9340) on a circuit board 9320 mounted to the lower receiver of an M4. As the follower 9110 rises in the magazine 9130, the position of the magnetic field changes. Different sensors (9310, 9320, and 9340) are positioned to detect the changing position of the magnetic field.

[0595] FIG. 93A shows approximately eight bullets remaining with a Hall Effect sensor 9310 detecting the magnetic field. FIG. 93B shows approximately four bullets remaining with a Hall Effect sensor 9330 detecting the magnetic field. FIG. 93C shows zero bullets remaining in the magazine with a Hall Effect sensor 9340 detecting the magnetic field. In each position, the magnet 9120 interacts with a different combination of Hall Effect sensors 9310, 9330, or 9340. Any number of Hall Effect sensors can be used, including, but not limited to, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 or more.

[0596] In one embodiment, a combination of sensors interacting with magnets can determine magazine height and calculate the number of rounds remaining. In one embodiment, the sensors can be vertically and equally spaced apart from one another. The sensor spacing can be correlated to the vertical distance traveled by the follower each time a round is removed.

[0597] In one embodiment, the information can be transmitted physically via a cable or wirelessly to a viewing optic with an active display. The number of remaining bullets can be displayed in the shooter's field of view in the viewing optic via an active reticle display. In one embodiment, the number of bullets can be displayed alphabetically, graphonically, or graphically. In one embodiment, the ammunition status can be displayed color coded. In one embodiment, the ammunition status can be displayed in green to indicate sufficient ammunition remaining. In another embodiment, the ammunition status can be displayed in red to indicate that ammunition needs to be replaced. In one embodiment, the ammunition status can be displayed in yellow to indicate that ammunition will soon need to be replaced.

[0598] In one embodiment, the bullet counter system tracks or monitors ammunition status. In one embodiment, the bullet counter system determines the number of bullets remaining. In another embodiment, the bullet counter system counts bullets in a magazine.

[0599] Figures 94A and 94B show additional embodiments of a bullet counter system. As shown in Figures 94A and 94B, a magazine follower 9110 has one or more magnets 9120 that interact with one or more ferrous wires 9420 within or on the wall of a magazine 9130. When the magnets contact or are in close proximity to the one or more wires 9420, the wires 9420 pick up the magnetic flux emanating from the magnets 9120, thus magnetizing the wires 9420.

[0600] One or more wires 9420 feed one or more nodes 9430 at or near the top of the magazine 9130, where sensors, including but not limited to Hall Effect sensors, interact with the magnetic fields of the nodes 9430. Based on the position of the follower 9110, different nodes 9430 become magnetized, allowing the number of bullets remaining in the magazine to be determined. In this scenario, the remaining bullets throughout the magazine 9130 can be determined, not just the bullets remaining at the end of the magazine. FIG. 94A shows an internal cutaway of this system. FIG. 94B shows an external view with the nodes 9430 shown through the side of the magazine 9130.

[0601] In another embodiment, the bullet counter system displays ammunition status or chamber status. This can be accomplished either via a magnetized bullet or another chamber status indication system. The information can be transmitted to the viewing optics wirelessly, via a direct wired connection, or via another interface, such as a smart rail, that can transmit data. The ammunition or chamber status can be displayed along with the status of the bullet in the magazine, or can indicate to the user that there is a bullet in the chamber, or that there is a bullet in the magazine but the chamber is empty. The bullet counter system disclosed herein can function as a safety mechanism to help the user be aware of their chamber status. While this feature would be useful for any weapon, it is particularly useful for bullpup weapons, whose design makes it difficult to ascertain chamber status.

[0602] In another embodiment, the bullet or cartridge case can have a magnet or magnetic properties that interact with the Hall Effect sensor, eliminating the need for a special follower to interact with the Hall Effect sensor.

[0603] In one embodiment, different types of bullets can also have unique signatures, which can provide a user with information about the type of bullet loaded into the magazine or chamber. Different symbols or colors can be used to distinguish between types of loads. Some examples can include, but are not limited to, ball bullets, armor-piercing bullets, matches, tracers, subsonic, high or low yield, incendiary, explosive, breach, buckshot, slugs, flechettes, and non-lethal. The type of bullet loaded can be extremely useful in military and law enforcement environments, especially when dealing with less-lethal and lethal bullets.

[0604] In another embodiment, the type of bullet loaded in the chamber and / or magazine can also be fed into a ballistic calculator in a viewing optic with an integrated display system. The system can identify the bullet in the chamber and update the ballistic solution to match that cartridge. This eliminates the need for the shooter to select a different type of ammunition from a menu.

[0605] In yet another embodiment, loaded round information can also interact with weapon information. Viewing optics with an integrated display system can detect weapon settings and display signals to alert the user to change operational settings, such as weapon recoil or gas settings or buffer weight, based on the round loaded. This can help the weapon cycle more reliably with that round and reduce wear and tear on the weapon system. If the weapon is capable, the system can instruct the weapon to adjust these settings itself.

[0606] In another embodiment, ammunition status can be transmitted to a third party in addition to the user of the sighting optic. The status can be transmitted via a sighting optic with an integrated display system with a wireless chipset, or can occur via a communications hub on a circuit board with Hall-effect sensors or additional points throughout the system. Ammunition status can be transmitted externally to other team members. Ammunition status can be transmitted to a sniper-observer team or to a heads-up display worn by the user or other team members. Machine gun or automatic rifle ammunition status can be transmitted to a team leader and / or co-gunner to better coordinate reloading, firing, and maneuvering.

[0607] When a Hall Effect sensor and communications hub are integrated into the user's magazine pouch, the status of the entire loadout can be displayed to the user or team leader. At the range or training environment, magazine and chamber status can be transmitted to the gunnery officer and instructor. This allows for better range control and a safer live-fire environment, especially when training individuals unfamiliar with the weapon.

[0608] In one embodiment, the bullet counter system may display the entire bullet count in the magazine, or may simply function as an indicator that the shooter is approaching the last bullet in the magazine.

[0609] In one embodiment, the bullet counter system disclosed herein can be used with weapons of either a conventional layout as shown in FIG. 95 or a bullpup design as shown in FIG. 96.

[0610] Disclosed herein is a system 9500 including a firearm with a conventional layout, observation optics 9510, a bullet counter system 9520, and a cable 9530 supporting communication between the observation optics 9510 and the bullet counter system, as shown in Fig. 95. The observation optics 9510 can include any of the embodiments and configurations disclosed throughout this application.

[0611] 96 illustrates another embodiment of a system 9600 disclosed herein including a bullpup design firearm, observation optics with an active display 9610, a bullet counter system 9620, and cables supporting communication between the observation optics 9610 and the bullet counter 9620. The observation optics 9610 can include any of the embodiments and configurations disclosed throughout this application.

[0612] Additionally, the bullet counter system can be used with firearms that have a magazine in the grip or any other magazine-fed weapon. The bullet counter system disclosed herein can also be used with belt-fed weapons that use special metal links or non-disintegrating belts with progressive magnets to activate the sensor of the present invention.

[0613] In one embodiment, one or more magnets can be positioned within the magazine follower to trigger one or more sensors on the weapon receiver. In one embodiment, the magnetic sensor can be present in a remote control already connected to the sighting optics. The remote control is attached to the magazine well of the weapon. The magazine follower rises when a round is stripped or ejected from the magazine, and the magnetic sensor transmits information to the active display of the sighting optics.

[0614] This design allows the shooter to get feedback regarding the number of rounds remaining in the magazine without having to take their focus off the sights picture. Additionally, this ammunition tracking design limits cost and does not add weight to the weapon system since an integrated display system already exists in the sighting optics. Furthermore, the sensor can reside in a remote control already attached to the weapon's magazine well.

[0615] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a viewing optic with an integrated display system that can display bullet counts from a full magazine to an empty magazine, or the integrated display system can function solely as an indicator that the shooter is approaching the last bullet in the magazine.

[0616] In one embodiment, the Hall Effect sensor may be present in a remote control that controls or is linked to the optical instrument or a portion of the optical instrument. In one embodiment, a new magazine follower may be inserted into the magazine.

[0617] In one embodiment, the casing or packaging of the Hall Effect sensor can be removable or fully integrated into the firearm receiver or furniture. In one embodiment, the Hall Effect sensor can be present in a remote control that controls or is linked to the observation optics or a portion of the optics. At least one magnet and at least one corresponding sensor can be located on either side to best facilitate a clear reading of the magnet associated with the magazine or other feeding device.

[0618] XIV. Observation optics capable of integrating images from augmented reality goggles Augmented reality goggles are a technology currently being developed to allow users the ability to see information digitally projected into their field of vision and superimposed on what they would normally see with the naked eye. This can be anything from targeting information to thermal and night vision imaging.

[0619] As described throughout this application, viewing optics with integrated display systems allow a user the ability to see information digitally projected into the field of view and superimposed on what one would normally see through the optics. In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to viewing optics with integrated display systems that can integrate images from augmented reality goggles.

[0620] When a user with augmented reality goggles is in night vision mode, the entire field of view is filled with a digital image of the scene in front of the user. Similarly, the viewing optics can also display night vision augmented reality. In this situation, if a user attempts to look into the viewing optics with an active display, the user's view will be obscured by the digital image projected by the augmented reality goggles.

[0621] In one embodiment, the present disclosure solves this problem by determining when a viewing optics with an integrated display system is presented to a user's eyes such that the viewing optics with an integrated display system can either completely deactivate the digital image projected by the augmented reality goggles or disable a portion of the digital image within the field of view (FOV) of the augmented reality goggles only if the FOV of the viewing optics with an integrated display system covers the FOV through the augmented reality goggles.

[0622] Optics mounted on weapons often have a limited area where the user can clearly see through the optic. This area exists as a 3D volume determined by the exit pupil and pupil distance. This area is also known as the "eyebox."

[0623] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a system and method that provides a user of augmented reality goggles with a way to determine when viewing optics with an integrated display system are presented to the user's eyes using proximity sensors correlated to the eyebox of the optics.

[0624] In one embodiment, the augmented reality goggles can have a proximity sensor configured to communicate with the viewing optics with the integrated display system. The proximity sensor can vary in shape, function, or technology. When input from the viewing optics is received by the sensor of the augmented reality goggles, the augmented reality goggles can completely deactivate the digital image projected by the goggles or disable a portion of the digital image in the field of view (FOV) of the augmented reality goggles. The input from the sensor can disable the augmented reality goggles if the FOV of the viewing optics with the integrated display system overlaps with the FOV through the augmented reality goggles. Some methods for achieving this can use RFID or other wireless transmission methods.

[0625] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to the use of an IR laser attached to viewing optics with an integrated display system and an IR camera attached to augmented reality goggles. The IR laser is aimed at a user's augmented reality goggles. When a user presents a firearm and viewing optics with an integrated display system to the user's eyes, the IR laser strikes the IR camera on the augmented reality goggles, indicating to the augmented reality goggles that the viewing optics with the integrated display system are positioned in front of the user's eyes. The augmented reality goggles are programmed to block the image of the augmented reality goggles, thereby allowing the user to see the viewing optics with the integrated display system.

[0626] 97 is a representative diagram of two possible mounting locations for an IR laser configured to communicate with the goggles. In one embodiment, the IR laser 9710 is located at the eyepiece end of a base or housing coupled to the body. In yet another embodiment, the IR laser 9720 is located at the eyepiece end of the body.

[0627] In one embodiment, the observation optics can include two or more IR lasers. In one embodiment, the IR lasers include two, three, four, five, six, or more IR lasers.

[0628] In another embodiment, the IR laser can also indicate the exact position and orientation of the viewing optics with the integrated display system to the augmented reality goggles. Using this feature, the augmented reality goggles can be programmed to turn off images for only the portion of the field of view that is blocked by the viewing optics with the integrated display system.

[0629] This allows the user to operate with both eyes open, providing a wider field of view and significantly improving situational awareness. Augmented reality goggles provide augmented reality imagery for everything outside the FOV of the viewing optics with an integrated display system, and the viewing optics with an integrated display system provide augmented reality imagery for everything within the field of view of the viewing optics.

[0630] In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to the use of a magnet on or in a weapon and a magnetic sensor in an augmented reality goggle system to detect and measure the presence of a magnetic field. Also, the locations of the sensor and magnet may be reversed. The sensor is calibrated to measure when a user is within the eyebox. When the sensor detects a magnetic field or magnetic field strength when the user is in a firing position and looking through the eyebox, the goggles can shut down all or part of the user's augmented reality display so as not to obstruct the FOV of the viewing optics.

[0631] In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to the use of a pressure switch attached to a stock or an augmented reality goggle system. The pressure sensor can be attached to the top of the stock and activated by the shooter checking the weld. Alternatively, the pressure sensor can be attached to various locations on the stock. When attached to the stock, a wireless transmission can be sent to the goggles indicating that the shooter is in position to look through the optics.

[0632] The pressure switch can be fixed or adjustable for different shooters, optics positions, clothing, or other variables. The switch can also allow a certain pressure threshold to be exceeded before sending a signal to the augmented reality goggle system.

[0633] A pressure sensor can also be integrated into or onto the augmented reality goggle system, which can be positioned, moved, or calibrated to activate when pressed against the stock when the shooter is in firing position looking through the optics.

[0634] In all configurations, the system between the observation optics and augmented reality goggles with an integrated display system can be designed to allow the shooter / user to shoulder and fire the weapon from a non-dominant / support position while disabling the augmented reality display on the appropriate side.

[0635] XV. Viewing Optics Dry Fire Feedback During dry-fire practice, a shooter practices firing by operating, aiming, and pulling the trigger of a weapon with either an empty chamber or non-live ammunition. In its most basic form, a shooter practices using a blank weapon, aiming at basic target criteria, either on or off range. The trigger is then pulled, and the shooter observes the movement of the weapon, but receives no feedback beyond the shooter's observation as to whether the intended target would be hit if live ammunition were fired.

[0636] In more advanced configurations, the shooter uses a laser indicator attached to or inserted into the weapon that provides more visual feedback regarding muzzle movement when the trigger fires. These lasers can provide feedback regarding hits or misses, but only when combined with highly specialized and sometimes expensive targeting systems.

[0637] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a sighting optic with an integrated display system having an active display configured to generate a target on the sighting optic's internal screen. A sensor can track the sighting optic's movement to an aim point projected therein. The shooter then dry-fires the weapon. Once the shot is fired, the scope provides the shooter with an indicator that indicates whether the user hit or missed the projected target if the user fired live ammunition at the physical target.

[0638] In one embodiment, the viewing optics can project a sight or target fiducial for the user, without the viewing optics needing to digitally display the entire target environment. This allows the user to overlay a digital target onto the image being received via the optical train in the main body of the viewing optics. This system significantly extends the battery life of the viewing optics, as the entire environment does not need to be reproduced and projected on a digital display.

[0639] In one embodiment, the main body of the viewing optic has an etched reticle, eliminating the need to project a reticle image onto a display. Additionally, the viewing optic with integrated display system includes an on-board atmospheric sensor that can calculate and correct ballistics and projected trajectories for dry-fire shots. Thus, shooters can undergo dry-fire training that takes into account the environmental and atmospheric conditions they are experiencing at the time of training.

[0640] In one embodiment, the viewing optics with integrated display system has an active display that projects an aim point onto a first focal plane of the main body's optical train. A user then moves the weapon system to position a reticle on or relative to the projected aim point, just as if a shooter were aiming down range at a target during a live-fire event.

[0641] In one embodiment, the sighting optics may use internal or external accelerometers, gyroscopes, or other sensors to track the physical movement of the sighting optics relative to the internal projected image. When the reticle is in position to perform the simulated shot, the shooter pulls the trigger. The sighting optics uses an accelerometer, microphone, gyroscope, or sensor to track the impact or movement of the firing pin. Shot placement and possibly follow-through are tracked and measured at the aiming reticle point at the time of the shot relative to the projected aim point. The system then provides the shooter with an indicator on the internal display as to whether the shooter hit or missed the shot in a live-fire situation. The system will provide the shooter with information regarding where the shot landed and / or provide instructions on how the user can correct the shot placement or the physical technique used by the shooter.

[0642] In another embodiment, the viewing optic with integrated display system has an active display that projects a target that the user can measure using an etched / passive or active / digital reticle. The shooter can utilize holds built into the reticle or dial in windage and / or elevation dials to replicate long distance shots.

[0643] In another embodiment, the viewing optics with integrated viewing system can simulate a shooter using a laser rangefinder to range the projected target. The shooter can then apply the appropriate hold or dial windage and / or elevation adjustments to take the simulated shot at a specified distance.

[0644] In one embodiment, the observation optics with integrated display system can ...

Claims

1. A system comprising an observation optical instrument and a bullet counter, An observation optical instrument comprising: a main tube; an objective lens system coupled to a first end of the main tube; an eyepiece lens system coupled to a second end of the main tube; an erecting lens system positioned between the objective lens system and the eyepiece lens system; a first focal plane between the objective lens system and the erecting lens system; a beam combiner positioned between the objective lens system and the first focal plane; and an active display configured to generate a digital image of ammunition status, The bullet counter is configured to track the ammunition status and communicate the said ammunition status to the active display, Equipped with, A system in which a digital image of the ammunition status is projected onto the first focal plane, thereby merging the digital image and the target image at the first focal plane.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the bullet counter comprises a magazine follower having one or more magnets.

3. The system according to claim 2, further comprising a firearm.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the firearm comprises one or more magnetic sensors.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein the one or more magnetic sensors are Hall effect sensors configured to detect a magnetic field from one or more magnets in the magazine follower.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein one or more of the Hall effect sensors are arranged in the magazine well.

7. The system according to claim 5, wherein one or more of the Hall effect sensors are arranged on the receiver of a firearm.

8. The system according to claim 5, further comprising a processor that correlates the position of the magnetic field with the ammunition status.

9. The system according to claim 5, wherein the ammunition status is the number of bullets in the magazine.

10. A system comprising an observation optical instrument and a bullet counter system, An observation optical instrument comprising: a main tube; an objective lens system coupled to a first end of the main tube; an eyepiece lens system coupled to a second end of the main tube; an erecting lens system positioned between the objective lens system and the eyepiece lens system; a first focal plane provided between the objective lens system and the erecting lens system; a beam combiner positioned between the objective lens system and the first focal plane; and an active display configured to generate a digital image of ammunition status; A bullet counter system comprising a magazine follower having one or more magnets inserted into the magazine, and a plurality of magnetic sensors arranged in the magwell, wherein the magnetic sensors in an activated state correspond to the position of the magazine follower, and a processor configured to correlate the position of the magazine follower with the ammunition status and to communicate with the active display, Equipped with, A system in which a digital image of the ammunition status is projected onto a first focal plane of the observation optical instrument, thereby merging the digital image and the target image from the observation optical instrument at the first focal plane.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the magnetic sensor is a Hall effect sensor.

12. The system according to claim 10, wherein the magnetic sensor on the magwell is located on a remote control configured to communicate with the observation optical instrument.

13. The system according to claim 10, wherein the ammunition status indicates the state of a bullet in the magazine, or indicates the presence of a bullet in the chamber, or indicates a state in which a bullet is present in the magazine but the chamber is empty.

14. The system according to claim 10, wherein the ammunition status is the number of rounds remaining in the magazine.

15. An observation method using an observation optical instrument, (a) A step of moving a magazine follower having one or more magnets inside the magazine, (b) The step of activating the magnetic sensor when the magazine follower is in close proximity to the magnetic sensor, (c) A step of determining the ammunition status based on the position of the magazine follower indicated by the operating magnetic sensor, (d) A step of communicating the ammunition status to an active display in the observation optical instrument, the observation optical instrument comprising: a main tube; an objective lens system coupled to a first end of the main tube; an eyepiece lens system coupled to a second end of the main tube; an erecting lens system disposed between the objective lens system and the eyepiece lens system; a first focal plane provided between the objective lens system and the erecting lens system; a beam combiner disposed between the objective lens system and the first focal plane; and an active display for generating an image. (e) The step of generating a digital image of the ammunition status using the active display, (f) The steps of projecting the digital image onto the first focal plane of the observation optical instrument, focusing the target image from the external scene onto the first focal plane, thereby merging the digital image and the target image at the first focal plane, A method that includes this.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the magnetic sensor is located in the magazine well.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein the magnetic sensor is located on a remote control configured to communicate with the observation optical instrument.

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein the magnetic sensor is a Hall effect sensor.

19. The method according to claim 15, wherein the ammunition status indicates the state of a bullet in the magazine, or indicates the presence of a bullet in the chamber, or indicates a state in which a bullet is present in the magazine and the chamber is empty.

20. The method according to claim 15, wherein the ammunition status is the number of bullets in the magazine.

21. A system comprising a firearm, a bullet counter system and an observation optical instrument, (a) The firearm having a magnetic sensor on the receiver, (b) A bullet counter system comprising a magazine follower coupled to the firearm and inserted into the magazine, wherein the one or more magnetic sensors detect a magnetic field as the magazine follower moves within the magazine, and the height of the magazine follower correlates with the number of bullets in the magazine, (c) An observation optical instrument comprising: a main tube; an objective lens system coupled to a first end of the main tube; an eyepiece lens system coupled to a second end of the main tube; an erecting lens system disposed between the objective lens system and the eyepiece lens system; a first focal plane provided between the objective lens system and the erecting lens system; a beam combiner disposed between the objective lens system and the first focal plane; and an active display. Equipped with, The system comprises an active display that projects a digital image of the number of bullets in the magazine onto a first focal plane of the observation optical instrument, thereby merging the digital image and the target image from the observation optical instrument at the first focal plane.

22. A system comprising a bullet counter system, a processing unit and an observation optical instrument, (a) A bullet counter system comprising a magazine follower having one or more magnets, wherein the magnets are positioned in front of one or more Hall effect sensors on a circuit board as the magazine follower moves within the magazine, (b) The processing unit configured to correlate the height of the magazine follower with the number of remaining rounds in the magazine, (c) An observation optical instrument comprising: a main tube; an objective lens system coupled to a first end of the main tube; an eyepiece lens system coupled to a second end of the main tube; an erecting lens system disposed between the objective lens system and the eyepiece lens system; a first focal plane provided between the objective lens system and the erecting lens system; a beam combiner disposed between the objective lens system and the first focal plane; and an active display. Equipped with, The system comprises an active display that projects a digital image of the number of bullets in the magazine onto a first focal plane of the observation optical instrument, thereby merging the digital image and the target image from the observation optical instrument at the first focal plane.

23. A system comprising a bullet counter system and an observation optical instrument, A bullet counter system comprising a magazine follower having one or more magnets inserted into the magazine, wherein the magazine comprises one or more magnetic wires configured to detect a magnetic field as the magazine follower moves within the magazine, and one or more nodes configured to communicate with one or more magnetic sensors, and the height of the magazine follower correlates with the number of bullets in the magazine. An observation optical instrument comprising a main tube, an objective lens system coupled to a first end of the main tube, an eyepiece lens system coupled to a second end of the main tube, an erecting lens system disposed between the objective lens system and the eyepiece lens system, a first focal plane provided between the objective lens system and the erecting lens system, a beam combiner disposed between the objective lens system and the first focal plane, and an active display, Equipped with, The system comprises an active display that projects a digital image of the number of bullets in the magazine onto the first focal plane of the observation optical instrument, thereby merging the digital image and the target image from the observation optical instrument at the first focal plane.

24. A system comprising a bullet counter system, a processing unit and an observation optical instrument, (a) A bullet counter system comprising a magazine follower having one or more magnets and a magazine having one or more magnetic wires configured to detect a magnetic field, (b) The processing unit configured to correlate the height of the magazine follower with the number of bullets in the magazine based on the operation of the magnetic wire, (c) A main tube, and an objective lens system coupled to the first end of the main tube, An observation optical instrument comprising: an eyepiece system coupled to the second end of the main tube; an erecting lens system disposed between the objective lens system and the eyepiece system; a first focal plane provided between the objective lens system and the erecting lens system; a beam combiner disposed between the objective lens system and the first focal plane; and an active display. Equipped with, The system comprises an active display that projects a digital image of the number of bullets in the magazine onto the first focal plane of the observation optical instrument, thereby merging the digital image and the target image from the observation optical instrument at the first focal plane.

Images