Adjustable weapon sight system and control method

Abstract

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

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 373,479, filed August 25, 2022, the disclosure of which is considered part of this application and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to imaging devices and optics for weapon systems, and more particularly to adjustable systems used with or integrated with reflective or holographic optical sights, such as on weapons or weapon systems. [Background technology]

[0003] Firearms and other hand-held weapons, such as bows, commonly include optical sights that provide a target reticle within the user's field of view to aid in aiming the weapon. Conventional sporting / combat optical sights often use reflective or holographic optics that superimpose the appearance of a reticle within the field of view when viewed through a glass optical window. The reticle image, which may be illuminated by a laser diode or other light-emitting device, is positioned to appear aligned parallel to and separated a relatively short vertical distance from the barrel or aiming axis of the firearm to which the sight is attached.

[0004] Conventional weapon sight systems include multiple user-selectable operational adjustments, such as selecting the appearance of a reticle image. Known reticle patterns include a center dot, crosshairs, a circle, a support, and combinations thereof. Other user-selectable adjustments may include brightness values. Conventional weapon sights may include static brightness adjustments or automatic dimming adjustments that respond to ambient lighting conditions. Yet further user-selectable adjustments may include reticle color. Conventional weapon sights using reflective or holographic reticles may illuminate the reticle image using red light, green light, or other colors. Facilitating user input to cycle or toggle user-selectable adjustments in conventional systems has required the inclusion of buttons, switches, levers, or other controls that require a minimum size to be reasonably accessible, additional components, more moving parts, and additional penetrations through the housing wall that may allow moisture or debris to enter the sight. Also, the accessibility of controls disposed on the exterior of the weapon sight introduces the opportunity for accidental, unintentional interaction with the controls. Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a weapon sight and method of operating a weapon sight that provides user input to cycle or toggle user-selectable adjustments that overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 8,448,373 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 8,254,746 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The following sections provide general descriptions and are not intended to be a comprehensive disclosure of the full range of all features in various combinations. In a first aspect, a weapon sight includes a body, a controller enclosed within the body, and a power source in electronic communication with the controller and enclosed within the body. The weapon sight includes a light source in electronic communication with and controlled by the controller, the light source disposed within the body and operable to generate a reticle image. The weapon sight includes a frame extending from the body and an optical element within the frame. The optical element is positioned to visually display the reticle image. The weapon sight includes a Hall effect sensor in electronic communication with the controller. The Hall effect sensor is positioned to generate an input signal in response to a magnet being disposed proximate to the Hall effect sensor. The controller is operable to adjust a user-selectable setting associated with the reticle image in response to receiving the input signal generated by the Hall effect sensor.

[0007] The weapon sight may further include an ambient light sensor in electronic communication with the controller. The ambient light sensor is configured to generate a brightness signal representative of ambient light conditions. The controller is configured to control the brightness of the light source based on the signal generated by the ambient light sensor. The controller may include a memory device that stores a plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles, the controller being operable to adjust between the plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles based on the input signal, and the reticle image is based on a combination of one of the user-selectable brightness profiles and the brightness signal. The plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles may include a first brightness profile for use in natural sunlight, a second brightness profile for use indoors, and a third brightness profile for use in low-light conditions.

[0008] The weapon sight may include user-selectable settings including a reticle design. The controller may include a memory device that stores a plurality of user-selectable reticle designs. The user-selectable reticle designs may include a dot, a starburst, a crosshair with a center dot, a circle with a center dot, stadia lines, and combinations thereof.

[0009] In the weapon sight, a Hall Effect sensor can be disposed adjacent to an interior surface of a sidewall of the body. The Hall Effect sensor can be disposed on a side of the frame.

[0010] In a second aspect, a weapon sight system includes a weapon sight. The weapon sight includes a body, a controller enclosed within the body, and a light source enclosed within the body. The light source is in electronic communication with the controller. The controller is configured to control the light source to generate a reticle image. The weapon sight includes a Hall effect sensor disposed within the weapon sight and in electronic communication with the controller. The weapon sight includes a recess formed on the body proximate to the Hall effect sensor.

[0011] The weapon sight system also includes a magnetic input tool. The magnetic input tool includes a tip shaped to correspond to the recess. The tip includes a magnet. The Hall effect sensor is positioned to generate an input signal when the tip of the magnetic input tool is received within the recess. The controller is operable to adjust a user-selectable setting associated with the reticle image in response to receiving the input signal generated by the Hall effect sensor.

[0012] The weapon sight system may include an ambient light sensor in electronic communication with a controller. The ambient light sensor may be configured to generate a brightness signal representative of ambient light conditions. The controller may be configured to control the brightness of the light source based on the signal generated by the ambient light sensor.

[0013] In the weapon sight system, the controller can include a memory device that stores a plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles. The controller can be operable to adjust between the plurality of user-selectable brightness profiles based on an input signal. The reticle image can be based on a combination of one of the user-selectable brightness profiles and the brightness signal.

[0014] The user-selectable settings of the weapon sight can include a reticle design. The controller can include a memory device that stores a plurality of user-selectable reticle designs. The plurality of user-selectable reticle designs can include a dot, a starburst, a crosshair with a center dot, a circle with a center dot, stadia lines, and combinations thereof.

[0015] In the weapon sight system, the magnetic input tool can include a stylus. The tip of the stylus can be a first tip, and the magnet can be a first magnet in a first orientation. The stylus can include a second tip, and the second tip can include a second magnet in a second orientation different from the first orientation.

[0016] In the weapon sight system, the weapon sight may include a second Hall effect sensor. The weapon sight may further include a second recess in a wall of the body proximate the second Hall effect sensor. The second tip of the stylus may be shaped to correspond to the second recess. The second Hall effect sensor may be positioned to generate a second input signal when the second tip of the magnetic input tool is received within the second recess. The controller may be operable to adjust a user-selectable setting associated with the reticle image in response to receiving a second input signal generated by the second Hall effect sensor that is different from the first input signal.

[0017] In a third aspect, a method for controlling a weapon sight having a Hall Effect sensor is provided. The method includes generating, by a controller in electronic communication with a light source, a first reticle image with an optical element. The first reticle image has a first reticle design, a first brightness profile, a first azimuth setting, and a second elevation setting. The method includes receiving, by the controller, an input signal generated by the Hall Effect sensor. The input signal represents a user input presenting a magnet in proximity to the Hall Effect sensor. The method includes adjusting, by the controller, a user-selectable setting in response to receiving the input signal generated by the Hall Effect sensor. The user-selectable setting is one of a brightness profile setting, a reticle design setting, an azimuth adjustment setting, an elevation adjustment setting, or a combination thereof. The method includes generating, by the controller, a second reticle image that differs from the first reticle image by the adjusted user-selectable setting.

[0018] The method may further include receiving, by the controller, a mode signal to toggle an adjustment mode for adjusting a user-selectable setting. The input signal may be based on a first swipe type, and the mode signal may be based on a second swipe type. The Hall Effect sensor may be a first Hall Effect sensor for generating the input signal, and the weapon sight may include a second Hall Effect sensor for generating the mode signal. The method may further include generating, with the controller, an input confirmation. The input confirmation may include one of a visual alert, an audible alert, and a combination of a visual alert and an audible alert.

[0019] Each of the above independent aspects of the present disclosure, and those aspects described in the detailed description below, may include any of the features, options, and possibilities described in this disclosure and figures, including those based on other independent aspects, and may include any combination of any of the features, options, and possibilities described in this disclosure and figures.

[0020] The details of one or more embodiments of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other aspects, advantages, objects, and features will become apparent from consideration of the following specification in conjunction with the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a first perspective side view of a weapon sight according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a second side perspective view of a weapon sight according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a weapon sight according to the present disclosure; [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of a weapon sight according to the present disclosure; [Figure 5] 10 is a chart illustrating exemplary user-selectable brightness profiles for use with the auto-dimming feature. [Figure 6A] Reticle designs for high and low display intensities. [Figure 6B] Reticle designs for high and low display intensities. [Figure 6C] Reticle designs for high and low display intensities. [Figure 6D] Reticle designs for high and low display intensities. [Figure 6E] Reticle designs for high and low display intensities. [Figure 6F] Reticle designs for high and low display intensities. [Figure 6G] Reticle designs for high and low display intensities. [Figure 6H] Reticle designs for high and low display intensities. [Figure 7] 1 is a first exemplary magnetic input tool as a stylus for use with a weapon sight of the present disclosure; [Figure 8] 1 is a second exemplary magnetic input tool as a fob for use with the weapon sights of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 10 is a third exemplary magnetic input tool as a glove for use with the weapon sights of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a weapon sight having a Hall Effect sensor in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0022] Like reference numbers refer to like parts throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] Referring now to the drawings and the illustrative examples illustrated therein, FIGS. 1-4 show a weapon sight 10 that can be used for sporting or combat weapons requiring aiming by an operator, such as a handheld weapon capable of firing a projectile. When used in connection with a weapon, the term "handheld" includes, for example, a rifle, shotgun, handgun, pistol, bow, or any other weapon commonly used in a handheld format. The weapon (not shown) includes a barrel or other bullet containment mechanism that defines a bullet axis. To assist in aiming the bullet axis at a target, the weapon may include fixed sights, such as iron sights, having a marker optically aligned with the bullet axis of the weapon. The weapon may also include a rail, such as a Weaver or Picatinny rail, extending at least partially along the upper surface of the barrel for mounting optical sights and devices, among other weapon accessories. The rail may further extend along the upper surface of the receiver, frame, grip, or other portion of the weapon. Alternatively, the receiver, frame, rail, or other portion of the weapon may include a flat upper surface having one or more threaded holes for receiving a corresponding threaded fastener, such as, for example, a delta point footprint.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 1, weapon sight 10 is an optical sight that superimposes markers or reticle designs (shown in FIGS. 6A-6H) to aid in aiming the weapon. Weapon sight 10 includes a base 12 configured to mount to a weapon, such as with a rail-mounted mounting mechanism or via a threaded fastener 14. Various types of mounting mechanisms may be employed depending on the type of weapon and rail system. Weapon sight 10 also includes a body 16 that houses a light source 18, a power supply 20, a controller 38, and an optic 24, among any other optical or electronic components of weapon sight 10. Body 16 may be sealed from the external environment to protect the components enclosed within body 16.

[0025] The optic 24 has a front surface 25 that faces the target and a rear surface 27 that is viewed by the user during operation. Both the front surface 25 and the rear surface 27 may be aspherical or spherical. The optic 24 is mounted in a generally perpendicular orientation to the operational orientation of the weapon, held in place by a frame 26. In the illustrated weapon sight 10, the body 16 is integrally formed with the frame 26, which extends substantially perpendicularly from the body 16. The body 16 and frame 26 may be formed of plastic, metallic, or any other suitable material formed by conventional manufacturing methods and have sufficient strength and dimensional stability to maintain the weapon sight 10 in a consistent calibration during operation, which may involve significant shock and vibration forces.

[0026] The light source 18 is disposed within the housing body 16 to emit light that is incident on an optical element 24 that includes a reflective surface or material for reflecting the illumination so that it is visible to the user. In an alternative embodiment, the optical element includes a hologram for generating an image reflection. The reflected illumination creates a reticle image for the user to aim in alignment with a target viewed through the optical element 24. The optical element 24 optically displays the reticle image via reflection from the light source 18. The light source 18 may be a light-emitting diode (LED) and may be positioned to emit light directed toward the optical element 24 directly or through one or more additional optical elements, such as a rear optical element 28 disposed between the light source 18 and the optical element 24. For example, the rear optical element 28 may be assembled to the body 16 to encapsulate and protect the light source 18. In one exemplary embodiment, the light source 18 and the rear optical element 28 may be mechanically integrated and fixed to the body 16 to provide a sealed enclosure for the body 16. In another alternative, multiple rear optical elements 28 are provided to redirect, focus, or collimate the emitted light inside the body 16 before it exits through the flat lens and reaches the optical element 24.

[0027] The light source 18 or rear optic 28, or a combination thereof, may be adjustable relative to the optic 24. In the illustrated weapon sight 10, the light source 18 is supported on an adjustable carrier (not shown). The carrier may be adjusted by rotating an azimuth adjustment screw 30 (shown in FIG. 2) to laterally adjust the placement of the reticle image on the optic 24, and by rotating an elevation adjustment screw 32 to vertically adjust the placement of the reticle image on the optic 24. The azimuth and elevation adjustments allow the weapon sight 10 to be specifically calibrated for different weapons or different users by adjusting the location of the sight image within the optic 24. Once calibrated, the adjustments may be locked into place via locking screws 34, 36.

[0028] The light source 18 is in electronic communication with and controlled by a controller 38. The controller 38 is powered by a power source 20, disposed within the body 16 beneath the battery cover 21, and in electronic communication with the controller 38. The controller 38 includes a processor, such as a microprocessor 40, and a memory device 42 that stores instructions for execution by the processor. The controller 38 may include LED drive electronics 43 in communication with the microprocessor 40. The microprocessor 40 generates signals received by the LED drive electronics 43 according to the instructions stored in the memory device 42. The controller 38 may communicate with or include other electronic components, such as a motor controller, for motor-controlled adjustment of elevation, azimuth, or both. The controller 38 may communicate with or include a wireless communication device 44, such as a Bluetooth device, a near-field communication (NFC) device, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) device, or the like.

[0029] As noted above, light source 18 may include an LED, or alternatively, may comprise an array of multiple LEDs or other light emitting devices. A signal generated by microprocessor 40 may cause LED drive electronics 43 to power one or more LEDs of light source 18 at a predetermined brightness. The predetermined brightness may be associated with a variable power level provided to light source 18 by LED drive electronics 43. An example weapon sight system with automatic brightness adjustment is provided in U.S. Pat. No. 5,483,362, entitled "Compact Holographic Sight," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0030] The controller 38 may include or be in electronic communication with an ambient light sensor, photodetector, or other input device to determine the light conditions in the surrounding environment, particularly from the direction of the target. The ambient light sensor 39 may be located within the body 16, for example, behind the rear optics 28. The memory device 42 may store instructions for adjusting brightness in response to environmental light conditions. Brightness adjustment may be characterized as defining a profile of brightness values ​​for each ambient light value.

[0031] The weapon sight 10 may store multiple user-selectable brightness profiles associated with different light conditions. An exemplary illustration of multiple user-selectable brightness profiles is provided in FIG. 5. For example, a first brightness profile P1 may be intended for outdoor use under natural sunlight, while a second brightness profile P2 may be intended for indoor use. A third brightness profile P3 may be provided for use in low light or nighttime operations. The brightness profiles associate different levels of power with the light source to generate a reticle image at different levels of ambient light in the environment. In lower light environments, it may be desirable to have a lower light output from the light source when generating a reticle image, while in brighter environments it may be desirable to have a higher light output from the light source. Different brightness profiles may be preferred for different shooting environments, such as those intended for self-defense use, sports settings, or competitive settings. Each of the different brightness profiles may be defined to have a different brightness value for a given ambient light condition value, as indicated by a signal generated by the ambient light sensor 39 and processed by the controller 38, depending on the selected brightness profile P1, P2, P3.

[0032] 5 shows a gradual offset between different luminance profiles, this is not intended to be limiting, and other relationships between luminance profiles are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, for a luminance profile intended for low light or nighttime operation, experiencing high ambient light conditions may require greater output power from the light source, such that luminance profile P3 may have a steeper slope relative to the other luminance profiles. Similarly, for luminance profile P1 intended for a high-light environment, such as outdoor daytime operation, there may be little difference between output levels at high and low ambient light levels, and therefore the slope of the luminance profile may be shallower relative to the other luminance profiles.

[0033] Light source 18 may include an array of LEDs for generating different reticle designs. FIGS. 6A-6H illustrate reticle designs at different brightness intensities. A reticle image may be generated by a dedicated LED in the array of LEDs. For example, light source 18 may include a first LED for generating a reticle design as illustrated in FIG. 6A and a separate LED for generating a reticle design as illustrated in FIG. 6C. In another alternative, light source 18 may include a single LED source and an array of masks, such as a mask wheel, disposed between light source 18 and optical element 24 to limit light from reaching optical element 24 that generates the reticle design. Exemplary reticle designs include dots ( FIGS. 6A and 6B ), starbursts ( FIGS. 6C and 6D ), crosshairs with a central dot ( FIGS. 6E and 6F ), and circles with a central dot ( FIGS. 6G and 6H ). Reticle designs can be produced at higher (e.g., FIG. 6A) or lower (e.g., FIG. 6B) intensities by varying the brightness of light source 18. The reticle image can be rendered in optical element 24 in red or green light, and light source 18 can include separate LED elements for each reticle design of each color.

[0034] In alternative embodiments, azimuth or elevation adjustment, or both, may be facilitated by controller 38. Weapon sight 10 may include one or more servo motors or other actuators in electronic communication with and controlled by controller 38 for adjusting the position of light source 18 or rear optic 28. One exemplary weapon sight including motors for adjusting the aiming image position is provided in U.S. Patent No. 7,225,578 (B2), entitled "Aiming Sight Having Fixed Light Emitting Diode (LED) Array And Rotatable Collimator," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0035] The weapon sight 10 includes one or more Hall Effect sensors 50 in electronic communication with the controller 38 for providing user input to the controller 38. The Hall Effect sensors 50 act to detect the presence and magnitude of a magnetic field. Locating the Hall Effect sensors 50 within the body 16 allows the user to provide input to the controller 38 without the need for buttons or other inputs, including moving parts and openings through the walls or surfaces of the body 16. Furthermore, the lack of external physical buttons avoids the possibility of accidental or unintended input. For example, when the weapon sight 10 is used with a compact weapon, such as a semi-automatic pistol, the weapon sight 10 may be mounted on the slide mechanism in close proximity to where the slide is gripped when the weapon is pulled back to load. Having buttons on the outside of the weapon sight 10 increases the risk of unintended button activation.

[0036] Presenting a magnet within range of the Hall Effect sensor 50 causes the sensor 50 to generate a signal representing the polarity and strength of the magnetic field. The controller 38 may be programmed to respond to the signal representing the presence, polarity, magnitude, or rate of change of the magnetic field by adjusting one or more user-selectable features or operations, including cycling through available brightness profiles, reticle image styles, or colors, or by adjusting the position of the reticle image on the optic 24. In one example, the controller 38 may be programmed to selectively display different reticle elements based on user input received via the Hall Effect sensor 50, such as a center dot, a circular element, or a stadia mark. Various reticle elements are illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6H and are intended as exemplary embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. In another example, the controller 38 may be programmed to select a different brightness curve, a brightness curve calibration offset, or a manual brightness value that disables the auto-dimming function based on user input. The controller 38 may be programmed to select a different auto-shutoff delay period based on user input.

[0037] In an alternative example, or in combination with the above description, controller 38 may be programmed to display additional information not typically displayed during operation in response to user input and signals from sensor 50. For example, controller 38 may determine and display battery status. Multi-segment LED 41 may be illuminated in response to user input detected by sensor 50, with portions of the segments illuminated to reflect the relative charge state of power source 20. Multi-segment LED 41 may be directly visible at a location on body 16. Alternatively, multi-segment LED 41 may be positioned to project light onto optics 24 and be visible by a user when looking through the sights. Battery charge status may be indicated in different manners, such as by flashing a reticle or temporarily adjusting reticle brightness to indicate the level of battery charge. In one example, the reticle may flash once for a low battery condition, twice for a medium battery charge, and three times for a high battery charge. In another example, the reticle may be temporarily illuminated in a high, medium, or low brightness state to indicate a high, medium, or low battery charge state. In a further example, the battery charge state may be represented in four, five, or other number of step changes.

[0038] Other functions of the weapon sight 10 may be associated with input received via the Hall Effect sensor 50. User input may toggle on / off operation, emergency thermal shutdown operation, or may be used to select from a series of temperature thresholds stored in the memory device 42. User input may be used to select from pre-programmed temperature compensation offset values ​​for brightness curves utilized in automatic dimming of reticle illumination. The controller 38 may include a temperature sensor in electronic communication with the microprocessor 40 to provide a value input representative of the ambient environment temperature, the operating temperature of the weapon sight 10 within the body 16, the operating temperature of the microprocessor 40, or other temperature information.

[0039] The controller 38 may be configured to toggle the weapon sight 10 between different operating modes upon receiving input via the Hall effect sensors. The controller 38 may be configured to activate an emergency signal mode in which the reticle flashes in a series of short and long flash durations to signal an SOS with a light pulse. The controller 38 may be configured to activate a self-destruct feature whereby power is discharged through the electronics in a manner that compromises or destroys the memory device 42 or the microprocessor 40, or in some other destructive operation. The controller 38 may include a wireless communication device 44 for a data connection, such as via Bluetooth, to wirelessly receive programming updates to information stored on the memory device 42 to add or change different brightness values ​​or other settings. The controller 38 may be configured to toggle the wireless connectivity function of the weapon sight 10, such as by placing the device in pairing mode, upon receiving user input via the Hall effect sensors.

[0040] 1-4 illustrate possible locations for positioning one or more Hall Effect sensors 50. Different combinations of the illustrated alternatives are possible within the scope of this disclosure, and still further alternatives are contemplated. In FIG. 1, a first sensor 50 is disposed adjacent to the interior surface of the sidewall of the weapon sight 10. In one alternative, the weapon sight 10 may include a single sensor 50. In embodiments with a single sensor 50, the controller 38 may be programmed to cycle between available user-selectable options upon receiving a signal from the sensor 50 indicating the presence of a magnet within range of the sensor 50. The controller 38 may respond to the sensor signal regardless of the polarity of the magnet presented within range of the sensor 50. If the controller 38 is arranged to control the brightness profile setting based on the sensor input, the controller 38 may progressively index the active brightness profile in series among the available profiles for each signal indicating the presence of a magnetic input sensed by the sensor 50. Controller 38 may be programmed to provide a feedback response upon a successful input at sensor 50, for example, by flashing the reticle image a number of times associated with the brightness profile index. In other alternatives, the feedback response may include an audible alarm or a visual alarm not associated with the reticle image, for example, via an LED indicator visible within optics 24 or disposed elsewhere on body 16.

[0041] 1, a single sensor 50 may be arranged to generate different signals depending on whether a magnet is presented in proximity to the sensor 50 with a positive or negative polarity. Thus, the controller 38 may be programmed to provide a first response to a first polarity magnetic field and a different second response to a second polarity magnetic field. For example, the controller 38 may increment through a series of brightness profiles when presented with a first polarity magnetic field and conversely decrement through a series of brightness profiles when presented with a second polarity magnetic field.

[0042] 2 illustrates a second alternative having two sensors 51, 52 positioned on the sides of body 16. As a further alternative to sensor placement, one or more sensors 55 may be disposed on one or both sides of frame 26. Controller 38 may be programmed to respond differently to the two sensors, for example, with one sensor 51 associated with an intensity profile selection and a second sensor 52 associated with a reticle design selection. In this example, both sensors 51, 52 may cycle through the available options in one continuous direction in the presence of a first polarity and in the opposite direction in the presence of a second polarity.

[0043] In another alternative, both sensors 51, 52 may be associated with a single feature selection, brightness, or reticle design. In this example, one sensor 51 responds to a first polarity and the second sensor 52 responds to a second polarity. Controller 38 may be programmed to read the sensor signals as inputs based solely on a minimum signal strength threshold associated with a particular polarity presented in proximity to one or the other sensor 51, 52. Sensors 51, 52 may be spaced apart along the sides of body 16 and may include magnetic shielding material disposed between sensors 51 and 52 to minimize the occurrence of unintended inputs.

[0044] In a further alternative, the weapon sight 10 may include a first sensor 50 on a first side of the body 16 and two additional sensors 51, 52 on a second side of the body 16 opposite the first side. The controller 38 may be programmed to receive input from the two sensors 51, 52 to change the value of a user-selectable feature and to receive input from the first sensor 50 to cycle among the available user-selectable features. For example, a user may present a magnet in proximity to the first sensor 50 to activate a first adjustment mode for a reticle brightness profile, then present a magnet in proximity to the second sensor 51 to cycle through the available brightness profiles in a first order. Presenting a magnet in proximity to the third sensor 52 cycles through the available brightness profiles in a second, opposite order. Presenting a magnet in proximity to the first sensor 50 a second time activates a second adjustment mode for reticle design selection. The user can then present a magnet in proximity to the second and third sensors 51, 52 to cycle between the available reticle designs.

[0045] FIG. 3 illustrates a further alternative in which Hall effect sensors 53, 54 are provided along the top surface of the body 16. As a further alternative, one or more sensors 57 may be disposed on the top surface of the frame 26. Similar to sensors 51, 52 provided on the sides of the body 16, sensors 53, 54 may be associated with adjusting user-selectable features instead of or in combination with the other sensors 50, 51, 52. In one example, sensor 50 on a first side of the body 16 operates to activate an operation mode for adjusting a user-selectable feature, with sensors 51, 52 enabling adjustment of the brightness profile and sensors 53, 54 providing adjustment of the reticle design. Sensor 50 may activate an operation mode for adjusting the azimuth or elevation positioning of the reticle image. For example, sensors 51, 52 may be associated with one of the azimuth or elevation positioning, and sensors 53, 54 may be associated with the other of the elevation or azimuth positioning. Any single sensor or combination of sensors may be located in any one or more locations as described herein, and such location and combination selections are not intended to be limiting. Controller 38 may be located with any of the functions described herein as associated with any one or more of the sensor locations, and such functional assignments described herein are not intended to be limiting.

[0046] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure further including a recess 56, such as a small indentation or depression, formed in the surface of the body 16 aligned with the location of the sensor 51. A second recess 58 aligns with the location of the second sensor 52. The recesses 56, 58 may provide a tactile indication to the user as to where to position a magnet to provide input to the associated sensor 51, 52. In other alternatives, visual indicators, such as colors, patterns, or symbols, may be disposed on the body 16 to indicate the location of the sensors 51, 52. A still further alternative may include textured surface portions, such as through surface roughening, stippling, knurling, etc., aligned with the sensor locations. Another alternative may combine elements of the recesses 56, 58 in the body 16 with visual indicators and surface texturing to provide an indication of the sensor location to the user. The recesses 56, 58, visual indicators, or surface texture may differ between the sensor locations 51 and 52 and may indicate the appropriate polarity for magnetic input as the particular locations 51, 52. Although not illustrated in the figures, such location designations, such as recesses, textured areas, or visual colors, patterns, or symbols, may be associated with any one or more of the sensor placements on the sides or top of body 16 or the sides or top of frame 26.

[0047] The weapon sight system includes the weapon sight 10 having the Hall effect sensors described above in various alternative embodiments in connection with FIGS. 1-4 and a magnetic input tool for providing user input to the weapon sight. FIGS. 7-9 illustrate exemplary input devices for providing user input to the Hall effect sensors 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, and 57. The controller 38 may be programmed to read an input at the Hall effect sensor based on the strength, duration, or polarity of the magnetic field present at the Hall effect sensor. For example, the processor may not read an input at the sensor until the magnetic field strength is greater than a predetermined threshold. The magnetic field strength may only be achieved when the magnetic input tool is placed in sufficient proximity to the sensor, such as when the magnetic input tool is placed in contact with the body 16 or frame 26 proximate the sensor location.

[0048] The controller 38 may also be programmed to distinguish between different inputs based on the duration the magnetic field is present. That is, the controller may be configured to distinguish between inputs for short, medium, or long swipes of the magnetic input tool. For example, placing the magnetic input tool in proximity to the sensor for a short period of time may be read as a different input than when the magnetic input tool is placed in proximity to the sensor and allowed to dwell for a period of time. In one exemplary implementation, a short swipe may toggle between user-adjustable parameters such as brightness and reticle selection, while a long swipe may toggle between different values ​​within a parameter, such as between low and high brightness or between available reticle shapes. A short swipe may be, for example, when the magnetic input tool is present near a Hall Effect sensor for less than about 1 / 10 to 1 / 2 of a second, and a long swipe may be when the magnetic input tool is present near a Hall Effect sensor for more than 1 / 2 to 1 second. Other suitable time values ​​may be employed to distinguish swipes between short, long, or additional time increments.

[0049] 7 illustrates a first exemplary magnetic input tool or device as a stylus 60. The stylus 60 includes a first end tip 62 having a first magnetic field orientation, shown as a positive pole, having a first end size and / or shape, and a second end tip 64 having a second magnetic field orientation, shown as a negative pole, having a size and / or shape of the second end tip that is different from the size and / or shape of the first end tip 62. The size of the first end tip 62 and the size of the second end tip 64 may be selected to correspond to the different sized recesses 56, 58 so that a user can properly orient and position the stylus 60 relative to the weapon sight 10 to provide a desired input. The strength of the magnetic fields generated by the respective first end tip 62 and second end tip 64, and the defined signal strength thresholds for the associated sensors, may correspond such that the controller 38 will not register an input signal unless the first end tip 62 or second end tip 64 is securely disposed within the respective recess for the associated sensor. An alternative design contemplates a single-ended stylus, and the weapon sight 10 has a polarity-independent sensor.

[0050] FIG. 8 illustrates a second exemplary magnetic input tool as a fob 70. The fob 70 may include one or more magnets 72 proximate an exterior surface for placement proximate to the weapon sight 10. The fob 70 may be positioned to expose a first magnetic pole along a first side of the fob 70 and an opposite magnetic pole along an opposite side of the fob 70. A user may place the fob 70 proximate to the weapon sight 10 in a first orientation to provide input to a first sensor via the first magnetic pole and in the opposite orientation to provide input to a second sensor via the second, opposite magnetic pole. The fob 70 may include surface markings 74 or indicia to indicate to a user which side of the fob 70 is associated with which magnetic pole. For example, if a sensor on weapon sight 10 is indicated with a first color for a first sensor associated with a first magnetic pole, fob 70 may have a first side marked with the same first color associated with the same magnetic pole. Other visual indicators, such as symbols, patterns, or textures, may be employed.

[0051] FIG. 9 illustrates a third exemplary magnetic input tool as a glove 80. The glove 80 may have one or more magnets integrated into its structure. In one example, a first magnet 82 is disposed on a first finger pad having a first polar orientation, and a second magnet 84 is disposed on a second finger pad having a second polar orientation opposite the first polar orientation. According to the illustrated example, a user can interact with the weapon sight 10 while wearing the glove 80 as if buttons were provided on the body 16, with a sensor reading one, the other, or both of the magnets 82, 84. In other alternative examples, the magnets 86, 88 may be integrated elsewhere in the glove 80. The magnets may be arranged in separate pairs with opposite polarities to avoid unintentional input to the weapon sight 10. While illustrated as a glove 80, the magnetic input tool may be formed as a separate wearable item, such as a wristband, a ring, or the like.

[0052] A method 100 for controlling a weapon sight having a Hall Effect sensor, illustrated in FIG. 10 , includes a first step 102 of generating a first reticle image with an optical element by a controller in electronic communication with a light source, the first reticle image having a first reticle design illuminated at a first brightness value according to a brightness profile. The method 100 includes, in a second step 104, receiving, by the controller, a user input generated by the Hall Effect sensor, the input signal representing the presence of a magnet proximate the Hall Effect sensor of the weapon sight. The method 100 includes, in a third step 106, adjusting a user-selectable setting in response to receiving the input signal generated by the Hall Effect sensor, the user-selectable setting including one of a brightness setting, a reticle design setting, an azimuth adjustment setting, an elevation adjustment setting, or a combination thereof. Method 100 includes a fourth step 108 of generating a second reticle image that differs from the first reticle image by at least changed user-selectable settings from step 106 in one or more of brightness settings, reticle design settings, azimuth adjustment settings, elevation adjustment settings, or combinations thereof.

[0053] The method 100 may include receiving a signal to toggle an operational mode. For example, the method may include receiving a mode signal from a Hall effect sensor to enter an adjustment mode in which user-selectable settings can be adjusted. The mode signal from the Hall effect sensor for toggling or entering the adjustment mode may reflect a first input type, such as a representation of a first swipe type, e.g., a long swipe, from a first Hall effect sensor, where the mode signal is different from the input signal. The method may include receiving a mode signal before receiving the input signal. The mode signal may be from the same first Hall effect sensor but represent a different swipe type, e.g., a short swipe for the mode input and a long swipe for the input signal, or the mode signal may be from a second Hall effect sensor different from the first Hall effect sensor receiving the input signal. Other operational modes described above may be toggled upon receiving an input signal from a particular Hall effect sensor or upon receiving a particular type of input. For example, toggling a self-destruct operational mode may require a long swipe input of more than about 5 or 10 seconds. This is not intended to be limiting, and other configurations of multiple Hall effect sensors or multiple swipe input types on one or more Hall effect sensors are contemplated within the scope of this disclosure.

[0054] Method 100 may include generating an input confirmation. For example, the method may include providing a feedback response by flashing the reticle image with flashing patterns corresponding to different user-selectable settings available to adjust or represent parameter values ​​within the user-selectable settings. For example, the method may include flashing the reticle image a number of times associated with the brightness profile index. The method may include providing a feedback response such as an audible or visual alarm not associated with the reticle image, such as an LED indicator.

[0055] The articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean that one or more of the elements of the preceding description are present. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Furthermore, it should be understood that references to “one embodiment” or “embodiments” of the present disclosure are not intended to exclude the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Any numbers, percentages, ratios, or other values ​​set forth herein are intended to include that value, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, that are encompassed by embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as other values ​​that are “about” or “approximately” the stated value. Accordingly, stated values ​​should be interpreted broadly enough to encompass values ​​at least sufficiently near the stated value to perform the desired function or achieve the desired result. The stated values ​​include, at least, the expected variation of a suitable manufacturing or production process, and may include values ​​within 5%, 1%, 0.1%, or 0.01% of the stated value.

[0056] Also, for purposes of this disclosure, as used herein, the terms "approximately," "about," and "substantially" refer to an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms "approximately," "about," and "substantially" can refer to an amount that is within less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, and less than 0.01% of the stated amount. Furthermore, it should be understood that any directions or frames of reference in the above description are merely relative directions or movements. For example, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "posterior," "anterior," "vertical," "horizontal," "distal," "proximal," and derivatives thereof, refer to the orientation shown in FIG. 1 . However, it should be understood that various alternative orientations may be provided unless expressly stated to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described herein are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Accordingly, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not considered limiting unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0057] Changes and modifications in the specifically described embodiments may be made without departing from the principles of the invention, which are intended to be limited only by the scope of the appended claims as interpreted in accordance with the principles of patent law. The present disclosure has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is to be understood that the terminology used is intended to be in the nature of words of description, rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible in light of the above teachings, and the present disclosure may be practiced in ways other than as specifically described.

Claims

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

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

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

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

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

6. 6. The weapon sight of claim 5, wherein said controller comprises a memory device that stores a plurality of user-selectable reticle designs, said plurality of user-selectable reticle designs including a dot, a starburst, a crosshair with a central dot, and a circle with a central dot.

7. The weapon sight of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the Hall Effect sensor is disposed adjacent an interior surface of a sidewall of the body.

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

9. 1. A weapon sight system comprising:

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

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

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

12. 12. The weapon sight system of claim 9, wherein said user selectable settings include a reticle design.

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

14. 14. The weapon sight system of claim 9, wherein the magnetic input tool includes a stylus, the tip is a first tip, the magnet is a first magnet at a first orientation, the input signal is a first input signal, and the stylus further includes a second tip, the second tip includes a second magnet at a second orientation different from the first orientation.

15. 15. The weapon sight system of claim 14, wherein the weapon sight comprises a second Hall effect sensor, the weapon sight further comprising a second recess proximate to the second Hall effect sensor, the second tip shaped to correspond to the second recess, the second Hall effect sensor positioned to generate a second input signal when the second tip of the magnetic input tool is received within the second recess, and the controller operable to adjust the user-selectable setting associated with the reticle image in response to receiving the second input signal generated by the second Hall effect sensor that differs from the first input signal.

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

17. The method of claim 16 , further comprising receiving, by the controller, a mode signal to toggle an adjustment mode for adjusting the user-selectable setting.

18. The method of claim 17 , wherein the input signal is based on a first swipe type and the mode signal is based on a second swipe type.

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

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

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