Holographic sight position adjustment

Abstract

The holographic sight includes a base, a support member attached to the base and extending upward therefrom, and a unitary optical component carrier formed with the support member. The support member is flexible, allowing the unitary optical component carrier to move horizontally and vertically relative to the base. A bridge is attached to the base and defines an opening through which a portion of the unitary optical component carrier extends. A protrusion is coupled to the bridge and protrudes into the opening and abuts the unitary optical component carrier. Extending the protrusion into the opening increases pressure exerted by the protrusion on the optical component carrier. This increase in pressure causes displacement of the unitary optical component carrier.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] Identifying and focusing on distant objects can be facilitated by the use of sights that may be employed, for example, on small arms such as bows, rifles, shotguns, handguns, mounted machine guns, and grenade launchers to assist the operator in finding and maintaining focus on a target.

[0002] Optical sights have been developed in many different forms and utilizing a variety of features, for example, optical sights have been developed that present the operator with holograms that can assist the operator in locating and focusing on objects. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] Disclosed herein is an adjustable holographic sight. The holographic sight may include a base, a support member attached to the base, and a unitary optical component carrier integrally formed with the support member. The support member may be flexible, and the unitary optical component carrier may be angularly movable horizontally and vertically relative to the base. The holographic sight may further include a bridge attached to the base and forming an opening with the base. A portion of the unitary optical component carrier may extend into the opening. A first protrusion may be coupled to the bridge and may protrude from the bridge into the opening. The first protrusion may abut a portion of the unitary optical component carrier and may be mechanically coupled to a first head configured to rotate. A second protrusion may be coupled to the bridge and may protrude from the bridge into the opening. The second protrusion may abut a portion of the unitary optical component carrier and may be mechanically coupled to a second head configured to rotate. Rotation of the first head causes the first protrusion to extend further into the opening, increasing the pressure exerted by the first protrusion on the portion of the optical component carrier extending into the opening. The increased pressure can angularly displace the unitary optical component carrier vertically. Rotation of the second head causes the second protrusion to extend further into the opening, increasing the pressure exerted by the second protrusion on the portion of the optical component carrier extending into the opening. The increased pressure can angularly displace the unitary optical component carrier horizontally.

[0004] The portion of the unitary optical component carrier that extends into the opening formed by the bridge may include a first set of opposing walls and a second set of opposing walls. At least one of the first pair of walls may include a substantially flat surface. The first protrusion may include a first rounded end that abuts the substantially flat surface of one of the first pair of walls. At least one of the second pair of walls may include a substantially flat surface. The second protrusion may include a second rounded end that abuts the substantially flat surface of one of the second pair of walls. The rounded end of the protrusion on the substantially flat surface of the sidewalls allows the portion of the unitary optical component to move freely in a direction perpendicular to the protrusion. The protrusion may slide on the surface of the sidewalls to accommodate expansion and contraction of the optical component carrier.

[0005] This Summary is provided to introduce some concepts in a simplified form that are further described herein in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Other features are described herein.

[0006] The foregoing summary and the following additional description of the exemplary embodiments may be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying exemplary drawings. It is understood that the disclosed systems and potential implementations are not limited to those depicted. Moreover, like reference numerals in the drawings refer to like elements. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1A] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary assembled holographic sight. [Figure 1B] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary assembled holographic sight. [Figure 1C] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary assembled holographic sight. [Figure 1D]1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary assembled holographic sight. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of an exemplary holographic sight. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary partially assembled holographic sight. [Figure 4A] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary optical chassis mounted on an exemplary base. [Figure 4B] FIG. 2 is a detailed view of a portion of the optical chassis. [Diagram 5] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary optical chassis mounted on an exemplary base. [Figure 6] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary optical chassis mounted on an exemplary base and with optical components mounted thereon. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary bridge. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary bridge with components separated; [Figure 9] 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary bridge mounted in an exemplary optical chassis. [Figure 10] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary holographic sight. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] A holographic sight may employ a series of optical components to create a hologram for presentation to an operator. For example, a holographic sight may employ a laser diode that generates a light beam, a mirror that deflects the light beam, a collimating optic that receives the deflected light beam and reflects the collimated light, and a grating that receives the collimated light and reflects the light toward an image hologram recorded by the image, whereby the image is displayed to an operator of the sight. Operation of a holographic sight requires that the optical components are in their intended positions, including distance and orientation, relative to one another. Even very small variations from the intended position of one of the optical components can adversely affect the operation of the sight.

[0009] A holographic sight may position the optical components relative to one another by fixing the optical components to structures within the holographic sight. For example, the optical components, such as the collimating optics and the holographic image, may be fixed inside the housing of the holographic sight. The mirror may be disposed on a pedestal extending from a mount to which the sight housing is attached. The grating may be fixed to a movable plate configured to rotate relative to the sight housing. Because the optical components are attached to different components that may themselves be movable relative to one another, it may be difficult to place the optical components in their intended positions, even in a controlled manufacturing environment. Furthermore, any movement of the structures to which the optical components are attached may move the optical components from their intended positions, degrading the quality of the hologram.

[0010] A sight for use with a weapon may be adjusted to correct for deviations of the projectile from the intended point of impact. The azimuth adjustment control may be configured to correct for horizontal deviations of the projectile trajectory from the intended point of impact. For a holographic sight, the azimuth adjustment control may be configured to correct for horizontal deviations of the projectile from the location targeted by the hologram created by the sight. And, the elevation adjustment control may be configured to correct for vertical deviations of the projectile from the intended point of impact. For a holographic sight, the elevation adjustment control may be configured to correct for vertical deviations of the projectile from the location targeted by the hologram created by the sight. In one example, the azimuth and elevation adjustment controls may apply forces to structures on the sight, displacing optical components from their intended positions, resulting in degradation of the hologram. In an exemplary scenario, the elevation and / or azimuth adjustment controls may apply pressure to optical components, such as a grating, to alter the optical path. However, applying pressure to an optical component may operate to displace the optical component from its intended position relative to other optical components, resulting in a degradation of the quality of the hologram produced by the optical sight. In one example, the elevation and / or azimuth adjustment controls may be bonded to an external housing. Changes in the structure of the housing, such as expansion or contraction of the housing in response to temperature changes, may displace the elevation and / or azimuth adjustment controls, which may apply pressure to displace the optical components.

[0011] Applicant discloses herein a holographic sight including individual optical components that are substantially decoupled or independent from unintended forces. The holographic sight may include a base, a unitary optical component carrier having a plurality of optical components received in a receiver, and a bridge forming an opening with the base. A portion of the unitary optical component carrier is positioned within the opening. A first protrusion may extend from the bridge into the opening and abut a first surface of the portion of the unitary optical component carrier. The first protrusion may be mechanically coupled to the first head and may extend further into the opening and respond to a rotation of the first head by applying additional pressure to the portion of the optical component carrier. The optical component carrier may angularly displace vertically in response to the pressure, thereby providing vertical adjustment to the holographic sight. A second protrusion may extend from the bridge into the opening and abut a second surface of the portion of the unitary optical component carrier. The second protrusion may be mechanically coupled to the second head and may extend further into the opening and respond to rotation of the second head by applying additional pressure to a portion of the optical component carrier. The optical component carrier may be angularly displaced in a horizontal direction in response to pressure, thereby providing an azimuth adjustment to the holographic sight. The first surface and the second surface of the portion of the unitary optical component carrier may be substantially flat or planar. The first protrusion may slide on the first surface and the second protrusion may slide on the second surface, thus accommodating movement of the optical component carrier in a direction perpendicular to the protrusion. The individual optical components are mechanically isolated from direct pressure from the azimuth and elevation controls, and the optical component carrier is mechanically decoupled from the azimuth and elevation controls in at least one dimension. The optical component carrier is decoupled from unintended pressures originating from other components in the sight, such as the housing and base.

[0012] 1A and 1B depict front and rear views, respectively, of an exemplary holographic sight 100. FIGs. 1C and 1D depict side views of the exemplary holographic sight 100. The holographic sight 100 may be adapted to be removably attached to a suitable device, such as, for example, a firearm. The holographic sight 100 may include a base 110 configured to removably engage with a corresponding component on the firearm to secure the holographic sight 100 to the firearm.

[0013] Holographic sight 100 includes a front end 112 and a rear end 114. An operator of holographic sight 100 can see through a back window 116 located at rear end 114 and an aligned front window 118 located at front end 112. The area visible to the operator through back window 116 and aligned front window 118 may be referred to as a field of view. Holographic sight 100 is adapted to impose a holographic image onto the field of view defined by back window 116 and front window 118.

[0014] Elevation adjustment control 120 may be accessible through an opening formed in housing 122 of holographic sight 100. Azimuth adjustment control 124 may be accessible through an opening formed in base 110. An operator may turn elevation adjustment control 120 to adjust the vertical position of the hologram as viewed through back window 116. An operator may turn azimuth adjustment control 124 to adjust the horizontal position of the hologram as viewed through back window 116. Battery cap 128 may be removed to provide access to an opening configured to receive a battery that may power holographic sight 100.

[0015] A night vision button 162 and an up / down button 164 may extend through an aperture formed in the base 110. An operator of the holographic sight may depress the night vision button 162 and / or the up / down button 164 to change the operating characteristics of the holographic sight 100. For example, by depressing a particular button or combination of buttons, the holographic sight 100 may change its on / off state, change the brightness of the hologram, and / or switch between normal and night vision modes.

[0016] Holographic optical sight 100 may further include a hood 170. Hood 170 may be disposed over and around a portion of housing 122 and may be mechanically attached to base 110. Hood 170 may be configured to protect housing 122 from impacts.

[0017] FIG. 2 provides an exploded view of holographic sight 100. Housing 122 may be mechanically coupled to base 110 and may have seal 130 disposed therebetween. Housing 122 encloses the components of holographic sight 100. For example, housing 122 may enclose optical chassis 132, which may be mechanically coupled to base 110. Optical chassis 132 may comprise a rigid body having a plurality of receptacles for receiving optical components employed to create the holographic image. For example, optical chassis 132 may comprise a body having receptacles for receiving each of laser diode 134, mirror 136, collimating optics 138, grating 140, and image hologram 142. Laser diode 134 may be configured to generate visible light that is directed toward and received at mirror 136. Mirror 136 may be configured to reflect light received from laser diode 134 toward collimating optics 138. Collimating optic 138 may be configured to receive the reflected light from mirror 136 and direct the collimated light towards grating 140. Collimating optic 138 may be, for example, transmissive or reflective. Grating 140, which may be, for example, a diffraction grating, may be configured to receive the collimated light from collimating optic 138 and reflect the diffracted light towards image hologram 142. Image hologram 142 may be configured to receive light from grating 140 and project a holographic image viewable in a field of view of holographic sight 100. Holographic sight 100 displays the hologram to an operator viewing through a field of view presented by rear window 116. The holographic image may be configured to aid the operator in locating and targeting objects. For example, the hologram may be a reticle, although other images may be employed.

[0018] The collar 146, sometimes referred to as a laser diode shoe, may be formed cylindrically having an inner surface with an associated inner diameter and an outer surface with an associated outer diameter. The laser diode 134 may be positioned within the collar 146 and form a friction fit with the inner surface of the collar 146. The diode ring 148 may be positioned around the outer surface of the collar 146 and form a friction fit with the outer surface of the collar 146. The ring 148 is received within a corresponding receiver of the optical chassis 132. The ring may form a friction fit with opposing walls contained within the corresponding receiver of the optical chassis 132. A laser diode holding press may be used to apply pressure to the collar 146 while inserting the laser diode 134, collar 146, and ring 148 into the corresponding receiver of the optical chassis 132.

[0019] The housing 132 further encloses a bridge 152 that may be mechanically coupled to the base 110. The bridge 152 may form an opening 190 through which at least a portion of the first receiver of the optical chassis 132 extends. The elevation adjustment assembly 154 and the azimuth adjustment assembly 156 may extend through openings 159 formed in the bridge 152 to engage with a portion of the first receiver of the optical chassis 132. The elevation adjustment control 120 may engage with the elevation adjustment assembly 154 through an opening or aperture 155 formed in the housing 122. The opening or aperture 155 in the housing 122 may be formed to allow the elevation adjustment control 120 to engage with the elevation adjustment assembly 154 without interference by the housing 122. For example, the opening 155 may be wide enough so as not to abut or interfere with the elevation adjustment control 120. Thus, movement or expansion of the housing 122 may not exert pressure on the elevation adjustment control 120. The amount of force or pressure applied by elevation adjustment control 120 can be decoupled from the expansion and / or movement of housing 122. An operator of holographic optical sight 100 may rotate elevation adjustment control 120, which can cause elevation adjustment assembly 154 to increase or decrease the length of the assembly that extends into opening 190 formed by bridge 152, thereby increasing or decreasing the force applied to the first receiver of optical chassis 132.

[0020] The azimuth adjustment control 124 engages with the azimuth adjustment assembly 156 through an opening 157 formed in the base 110. The opening 157 in the base 110 may be formed to allow the azimuth adjustment control 124 to engage with the azimuth adjustment assembly 156 without interference by the base 110. For example, the opening 157 may be wide enough so as not to abut or interfere with the adjustment control 124. Thus, movement or expansion of the base 110 may not exert pressure on the adjustment control 124. The amount of force or pressure applied by the adjustment control 124 may be decoupled from the expansion and / or movement of the base 110. An operator of the holographic optical sight 100 may rotate the azimuth adjustment control 124, which may cause the azimuth adjustment assembly 156 to increase or decrease the length of the assembly that extends into the opening 190 formed by the bridge 152, thereby increasing or decreasing the force applied to the first receiver of the optical chassis 132.

[0021] The housing 122 may further enclose a printed circuit board assembly 160 including electronic components configured to power and control the holographic sight 100. A night vision button 162 and an up / down button 164 may extend through a spacer 166 and engage the printed circuit board assembly 160. The night vision button 162 and the up / down button 164 may extend through corresponding openings in the base 110. When an operator of the holographic sight depresses the night vision button 162 and / or the up / down button 164, the buttons may interface with the printed circuit board assembly 160 to change the operating characteristics of the holographic sight 100. For example, depressing a particular button or combination of buttons may cause the printed circuit board assembly 160 to change an on / off state, change the brightness of a hologram, and / or switch between normal and night vision modes.

[0022] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the exemplary holographic sight 100 partially assembled with the housing 122, hood 170, and other elements removed. The optical chassis 132 may be mechanically coupled to the base 110 using a suitable fastening technique, such as using screws. The optical components including the laser diode 134, the mirror 136, the collimating optics 138, the grating 140, and the image hologram 142 may be received in receptacles of the optical chassis 132. The bridge 152 may be mechanically coupled to the base 110 using a suitable fastening technique, such as using screws. A portion of the optical chassis 132 may extend into an opening 190 defined by the bridge and the base 110. The elevation adjustment control 120 may interface with the elevation adjustment assembly 154 to apply a force to a portion of the optical chassis 132, thereby adjusting the elevation angle of the optical chassis 132. The azimuth adjustment control 124 may interface with the azimuth adjustment assembly 156 to apply a force to a portion of the optical chassis 132 to thereby adjust the angular horizontal orientation of the optical chassis 132 relative to the base 110 .

[0023] FIG. 4A illustrates an isolated perspective view of the exemplary optical chassis 132 mounted on the base 110 with the optical components removed. FIG. 4B illustrates a close-up view of a portion of the exemplary optical chassis 132. FIG. 5 illustrates a reverse perspective view of the optical chassis 132 mounted on the base 110. The optical chassis 132 may include a mounting flange 220, a support member 222 integrally formed with and extending upwardly from the mounting flange 220, and a unitary optical component carrier 224 integrally formed with the support member 222. The mounting flange 220 may be secured to the base 110 using any suitable method, which may include, for example, screws extending through openings in the mounting flange 220 and into corresponding receptacles in the base 110. The support member 222 and the unitary optical component carrier 224 may be suspended relative to the base 110 by the mounting flange 220.

[0024] The support member 222 of the optical chassis 132 may include one or more flexible portions such that the unitary optical component carrier 224 may be angularly movable horizontally and / or vertically relative to the mounting flange 220 and base 110. The support member 222 may be compliant to allow adjustment of the position of the unitary optical component carrier 224 relative to the mounting flange 220 and base 110, thereby allowing adjustment of the position of a hologram created within the field of view of an operator.

[0025] The support member 222 may include a first wall 240 extending upwardly relative to the mounting flange 220 and integrally formed therewith. The support member 222 may further include a second wall 244 and a flexible member 246 coupled between the first wall 240 and the second wall 244. The second wall 244 and the flexible member 246 may be supported by the first wall 240. The second wall 244 may be free to move angularly horizontally relative to the mounting flange 220 and the base 110 with the flexible member 246 as a fulcrum. The flexible member 246 may be coupled to the first wall 240 near a center of the first wall 240 and to the second wall 244 near a center of the second wall 244. When a horizontal force is applied to second wall 244, flexible member 246 may flex or twist such that second wall 244 can move horizontally or angularly displace relative to first wall 240, with flexible member 246 as the fulcrum of motion. A horizontal force applied to optical component carrier 224 may be transferred to second horizontal wall 244 and may result in angular horizontal movement about or around second wall 244 and flexible member 246 of optical component carrier 224 relative to first wall 240 and mounting flange 220.

[0026] The support member 222 may further include a first horizontal member 247 integrally formed with the second wall 244, extending away from the unitary optical component carrier 224, a second horizontal member 248 extending toward the unitary optical component carrier 224, and a joint member 249 integrally formed with the first horizontal member 247 and the second horizontal member 248. The first horizontal member 247, the joint member 249, and the second horizontal member 248 may be integrally formed and together provide vertical flexibility of the unitary optical component carrier 224 relative to the mounting flange 220 and the base 110. The second horizontal member 248 may be vertically flexible relative to the first horizontal member 247. The joint member 249 may be flexible to allow vertical movement of the second horizontal member 248 relative to the first horizontal member 247. When a vertical pressure is applied to the second horizontal member 248, it may move or displace vertically relative to the first horizontal member 247, the mounting flange 220, and the base 110. The movement may be angular about the joint member 249. A vertical force applied to the unitary optical component carrier 224 may be transferred to the second horizontal member 248, resulting in vertical angular movement about or around the joint member 249 of the unitary optical component carrier 224 and second horizontal member 248 relative to the first horizontal member 247 and the mounting flange 220. As shown in the figures, multiple instances of the first horizontal member 247 and second horizontal member 248 may be included in the support member 222.

[0027] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary modular optical component carrier 224 mounted on the base 110 and with the optical components 134, 136, 138, 140, 142 attached thereto. The modular optical component carrier 224 comprises a body that may function as a platform or rack on which the optical components are mounted. The modular optical component carrier 224 may be integrally formed with the support member 222, which may be integrally formed with the mounting flange 220. The modular optical component carrier 224 may comprise a rigid body and may be substantially resistant to changes in the relative distance between the optical components. For example, in a scenario in which a force is applied to the first receiver 230 by the elevation adjustment assembly 154 and / or the azimuth adjustment assembly 156, the modular optical component carrier 224 may be resistant to distortion and may move as a unit while the relative distance between the optical components 134, 136, 138, 140, and 142 remains substantially unchanged. The modular optical component carrier 224 may be made of a material having a relatively low coefficient of thermal expansion. As a result, the relative distances between the optical components may remain substantially the same over a wide range of temperature environments. In one example, the unitary optical component carrier 224 may be fabricated from titanium.

[0028] The modular optical component carrier 224 may include a number of receivers 230, 232, 234, 236, 238 configured to receive optical components. Each of the receivers 230, 232, 234, 236, and 238 includes one or more surfaces configured to receive corresponding surfaces of an appropriate optical component. Surface-to-surface attachment provides precise positioning of the optical components relative to the modular optical component carrier 224 and relative to each other. The receivers 230, 232, 234, 236, and 238 are configured to allow corresponding optical components to be applied from outside the modular optical component carrier 224. Attachment of the optical components from outside may be performed by automated means, such as, for example, robotic handling. The optical components may be secured to the receivers 230, 232, 234, 236, and 238 via friction between the optical components and the corresponding receivers and / or by application of adhesive.

[0029] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the bridge 152. FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of the bridge 152. FIG. 9 illustrates an isolated perspective view of the bridge 152 engaged with the first receiver 230 of the optical chassis 132. FIG. 10 illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the holographic sight 100 along with a cross-section of the bridge 152. The exemplary bridge 152 may include a bridge body 290 having openings 292 and 294 formed therein. The elevation adjuster assembly 154 may extend through the opening 292 into the opening 190 formed by the bridge 152 and the base 110. The azimuth adjuster assembly 156 may extend through the opening 294 into the opening 190 formed by the bridge 152 and the base 110.

[0030] The elevation adjuster assembly 154 may include a protrusion 296 and a head 298. The protrusion 296 of the elevation adjuster assembly 154 may extend into the opening 190 and abut the outer surface 250A of the first receiver 230 of the unitary optical component carrier 224. Rotating the head 298 in a first direction may cause the protrusion 296 to extend further into the opening 190. As the protrusion 296 extends further into the opening, the protrusion 296 may increase the pressure or force applied to the outer surface 250A of the first receiver 230. The increase in pressure applied by the protrusion, in combination with the angular vertical range of movement allowed by the support member 222, may angularly deflect or displace the unitary optical component carrier 224 downwardly or vertically relative to the mounting flange 220 and base 110. Rotating the head 298 in a second direction may cause the protrusion 296 to retract from the opening 190. As the projection 296 is retracted from the opening 190, the projection 296 reduces the pressure or force applied to the exterior surface 250A. The reduction in applied pressure, in combination with the angular vertical range of movement permitted by the support member 222, may angularly displace or deflect the unitary optical component carrier 224 vertically upward relative to the mounting flange 220 and the base 110. The head 298 may align with the aperture 155 in the housing 122 to allow the elevation adjustment control 120, which may be a knob, to access and mate to the head 298. The elevation adjustment control 120 may be rotationally coupled with the head 298. Rotating the elevation adjustment control 120 may result in rotation of the head 298 and corresponding insertion and withdrawal of the projection 296 relative to the opening 190. The elevation adjustment control 120 may be axially decoupled from the head 298. Thus, axial movement of the elevation adjustment control 120 may not disturb or displace the head 298 and the remainder of the bridge 152. For example, in response to expansion and / or contraction of housing 122 due to temperature changes, elevation adjustment control 120 may be displaced and decoupled from head 298 and may not exert axial pressure on head 298. Head 298, protrusions 296, bridge 290, and unitary optical component carrier are isolated from the expansion and / or contraction of housing 122 and / or azimuth adjustment control 124.

[0031] The azimuth adjuster assembly 156 may include a protrusion 300 and a head 302. The protrusion 300 of the azimuth adjuster assembly 156 may extend into the opening 190 and abut the outer surface 252A of the first receiver 210 of the unitary optical component carrier 224. Rotating the head 302 in a first direction may cause the protrusion 300 to extend further into the opening 190. As the protrusion 300 extends further into the opening, the protrusion 300 may increase the pressure or force applied to the outer surface 252A of the first receiver 230. The increase in pressure applied by the protrusion, in combination with the angular horizontal range of movement allowed by the support member 222, may cause the unitary optical component carrier 224 to angularly displace or deflect horizontally relative to the mounting flange 220 and base 110. Rotating the head 302 in a second direction may cause the protrusion 300 to retract from the opening 190. As the projection 300 is retracted from the opening 190, the projection 302 reduces the pressure or force applied to the outer surface 252A. The reduction in pressure, in combination with the angular horizontal range of movement permitted by the support member 222, may cause the unitary optical component carrier 224 to angularly displace or deflect horizontally relative to the mounting flange 220 and the base 110. The head 302 may align with an aperture 157 in the base 110, allowing the azimuth adjustment control 124, which may be a knob, to access and mate to the head 302. The azimuth adjustment control 124 may be rotationally coupled with the head 302. Rotating the azimuth adjustment control 124 may result in rotation of the head 302 and corresponding insertion and withdrawal of the projection 300 relative to the opening 190. The azimuth adjustment control 124 may be axially decoupled from the head 302. Thus, axial movement of the adjustment control 124 may not disturb or displace the head 302 and the remainder of the bridge 152. For example, in response to expansion and / or contraction of housing 122 due to temperature changes, azimuth adjustment control 124 may be displaced and decoupled from head 302 and may not exert pressure on head 302. Head 302, protrusion 300, bridge 290, and unitary optical component carrier are isolated from the expansion and / or contraction of housing 122 and / or azimuth adjustment control 124.

[0032] The outer surface of the opposing sidewall 250A and the outer surface of the opposing sidewall 252A may be substantially flat or planar surfaces. The protrusions 296 and 300 may have substantially rounded ends that abut the corresponding surfaces of the sidewalls 250A and 252A. The rounded ends of the protrusions 296 and 300 on the substantially flat or planar surfaces of the sidewalls 250A and 252A may allow the first receiver 230 and the remainder of the optical component carrier 224 to move freely in a direction perpendicular to the protrusions 296 and 300. The protrusions 296 and 300 may slide on the surfaces of the sidewalls 250A and 252 to accommodate the relative movement, expansion and contraction of the optical component carrier 224 and / or the expansion and contraction of the bridge 290. The protrusions 296 and 300 do not impede the relative vertical movement of the optical component carrier 224.

[0033] Accordingly, applicant has disclosed a holographic sight that includes a unitary optical component carrier. The unitary optical component carrier may include a first receptacle configured to receive a laser diode, a second receptacle configured to receive a mirror, a third receptacle configured to receive a collimating optic, a fourth receptacle configured to receive a grating, and a fifth receptacle configured to receive an image hologram. The unitary optical component carrier provides mechanical stability and maintains the relative positioning of optical components applied thereto.

[0034] Applicant has disclosed a holographic sight configured to isolate the individual optical components from unintended external pressures and forces. The elevation control protrusion 296 and the azimuth control protrusion 300 may abut the unitary optical component carrier 224 rather than the individual optical components. The elevation control protrusion 296 and the azimuth control protrusion 300 may angularly displace the unitary optical component carrier 224 to adjust the position of the hologram, but the individual optical components maintain their intended positions relative to one another, thereby maintaining the quality of the hologram. Additionally, the protrusions 296 and 300 may be rounded and may abut a substantially flat or planar surface of the unitary optical component carrier 224. The unitary optical component carrier 224 may be free to move (possibly due to relative expansion and / or contraction) relative to the protrusions 296 and 300. Elevation adjustment control 120 and azimuth adjustment control 124 may be rotationally coupled to head 298 and 302, respectively, but may be axially decoupled from head 298 and 302 when elevation adjustment control 120 and azimuth adjustment control 124 are displaced. Elevation adjustment control 120 and azimuth adjustment control 124 may extend through openings 155 and 157 in housing 122 and base 110 that are large enough so that movement, expansion, or contraction of housing 122 and / or base 110 does not interfere with elevation adjustment control 120 and azimuth adjustment control 124. Thus, elevation adjustment assembly 154, azimuth adjustment assembly 156, bridge 290, and unitary optical component carrier 224 may be mechanically isolated from expansion and contraction of housing 122 and base 110. Unitary optical component carrier 224 may maintain the optical components in precise relative positions to one another even when external forces and displacements may be experienced by other portions of the holographic optical sight. The optical component carrier 224 may be decoupled or independent from unintentional pressure or force.

[0035] Although exemplary embodiments have been disclosed, it will be understood that the scope of potential embodiments is not limited to those expressly described. For example, while exemplary holographic sights are described with a particular number of optical components, different numbers of optical components may be included in holographic sights consistent with this disclosure. Embodiments may have optical components arranged in different configurations than those described herein. Similarly, embodiments may employ support members that provide similar functionality but are configured differently than those expressly described herein. Additionally, while bridges and adjustment assemblies are described with particular shapes and orientations, embodiments may employ bridges and assemblies of other shapes and orientations.

[0036] Although features and elements may be described in this specification in particular combinations, each feature or element may be used alone, without the other features and elements, and / or in various combinations with or without the other features and elements.

Claims

1. With the base, a unitary optical component carrier attached to the base, the unitary optical component carrier including a plurality of receivers configured to receive optical components; a bridge attached to the base, the bridge defining an opening, a portion of the unitary optical component carrier extending into the opening; a first protrusion coupled to the bridge and projecting from the bridge into the opening, the first protrusion abutting the portion of the unitary optical component carrier; Includes a holographic sight.

2. a head mechanically coupled to the first protrusion, wherein rotation of the head in a first direction causes an increase in pressure applied by the first protrusion to the portion of the unitary optical component carrier; The holographic sight of claim 1 , further comprising:

3. rotation of the head in a second direction causes a decrease in pressure exerted by the first protrusion on the portion of the unitary optical component carrier. The holographic sight of claim 2.

4. a support member coupled to the base and integrally formed with the unitary optical component carrier, the unitary optical component carrier extending from the support member and angularly movable in a vertical direction relative to the base; rotation of the head in a first direction causing an increase in pressure applied by the first protrusion to the portion of the unitary optical component carrier causes the chassis to angularly move vertically relative to the base, with the support member as a fulcrum; rotation of the head in a second direction causing a decrease in pressure applied by the first protrusion to the portion of the unitary optical component carrier causes the chassis to angularly move vertically relative to the base, with the support member as a fulcrum.

4. The holographic sight of claim 3.

5. a support member coupled to the base and integrally formed with the unitary optical component carrier, the unitary optical component carrier extending from the support member and horizontally movable relative to the base; rotation of the head in the first direction causing an increase in pressure applied by the first protrusion to the portion of the unitary optical component carrier causes a chassis to move horizontally relative to the base; rotation of the head in the second direction causing a decrease in pressure applied by the first protrusion to the portion of the unitary optical component carrier causes the chassis to move horizontally relative to the base.

4. The holographic sight of claim 3.

6. the portion of the unitary optical component carrier includes a flat surface; the first protrusion includes a rounded end, the rounded end abutting the flat surface of the portion of the unitary optical component carrier; The holographic sight of claim 1 .

7. the portion of the unitary optical component carrier is freely movable relative to the first protrusion; 7. The holographic sight of claim 6.

8. a housing enclosing the unitary optical component carrier and the bridge, the housing having a first aperture formed therein; the head is accessible through the first aperture; 4. The holographic sight of claim 3.

9. a knob mechanically engaging the head; Rotating the knob rotates the head.

9. The holographic sight of claim 8.

10. The holographic sight of claim 9 , wherein the knob is axially decoupled from the head.

11. With the base, a unitary optical component carrier attached to the base, the unitary optical component carrier including a plurality of receivers configured to receive optical components; a bridge attached to the base, the bridge defining an opening, a portion of the unitary optical component carrier extending into the opening; a first protrusion coupled to the bridge and projecting from the bridge into the opening, the first protrusion abutting the portion of the unitary optical component carrier; a second protrusion coupled to the bridge and projecting from the bridge into the opening, the second protrusion abutting the portion of the unitary optical component carrier; Includes a holographic sight.

12. a first head mechanically coupled to the first protrusion; a second head mechanically coupled to the second projection; the portion of the unitary optical component carrier includes a first pair of opposing walls and a second pair of opposing walls, the first protrusion abutting one of the first pair of opposing walls and the second protrusion abutting one of the second pair of opposing walls; rotation of the first head causes the first projection to extend further into the opening, increasing the pressure exerted by the first projection on the one of the first pair of opposing walls; rotation of the second head causes the second projection to extend further into the opening, increasing the pressure exerted by the second projection on the one of the second pair of opposing walls. The holographic sight of claim 11.

13. a support member coupled to the base and integrally formed with the unitary optical component carrier, the unitary optical component carrier extending from the support member and angularly movable relative to the base; rotation of the first head causes the unitary optical component carrier to move angularly in a vertical direction relative to the base about the support member; rotation of the second head causes the unitary optical component carrier to move angularly horizontally relative to the base with the support member as a fulcrum; The holographic sight of claim 12.

14. The one of the first pair of opposing walls includes a flat surface, the first protrusion includes a first rounded end, the first rounded end abutting the flat surface of the one of the first pair of opposing walls; the one of the second pair of opposing walls includes a flat surface, the second protrusion includes a second rounded end, the second rounded end abutting the flat surface of the one of the second pair of opposing walls.

14. The holographic sight of claim 13.

15. a housing enclosing the unitary optical component carrier and the bridge, the housing having a first aperture formed therein and the base having a second aperture formed therein; the first head is accessible through the first aperture and the second head is accessible through the second aperture; 15. The holographic sight of claim 14.

16. a first knob mechanically coupled to and axially decoupled from the first head; a second knob mechanically coupled to the second head and axially decoupled from the second head; 16. The holographic sight of claim 15.

17. With the base, a bridge attached to the base and defining an opening; a first projection coupled to the bridge and projecting from the bridge into the opening; a first head mechanically coupled to the first projection, wherein rotation of the first head causes the first projection to extend further into the opening; and a housing enclosing the bridge, the housing having an aperture formed therein, the aperture being aligned with the first head; a knob that is mechanically coupled to the first head and that is axially decoupled from the first head; Includes a holographic sight.

18. Rotation of the knob rotates the first head, and rotation of the first head causes the first protrusion to extend further into the opening.

20. The holographic sight of claim 17.

19. the knob is mechanically decoupled from the first head in response to expansion and contraction of the housing due to temperature changes.

20. The holographic sight of claim 17.

20. a unitary optical component carrier attached to the base, a portion of the unitary optical component carrier being received in the opening and the first protrusion abutting the portion of the unitary optical component carrier; 20. The holographic sight of claim 17, further comprising:

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