Observation optical instrument equipped with wind direction detection and method of using the same

Abstract

To provide an observation optical instrument that can quickly obtain a wind direction and / or eliminate the need for a user to carry multiple instruments.SOLUTION: The present invention relates to an observation optical instrument. In one embodiment, the observation optical instrument has a direction sensor that captures a wind direction. In one embodiment, the observation optical instrument has a distance measuring system that determines a distance to a target. In one embodiment, the observation optical instrument has a processor with a ballistic program capable of determining a ballistic trajectory using the distance and the wind direction. Further, the present disclosure relates to a method of capturing the wind direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - Reference to Related Applications] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 657,450, filed Apr. 13, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, and is a non - provisional patent application thereof.

[0002] The disclosure of the present invention relates to an observation optical instrument, and more particularly, to an observation optical instrument having an integrated direction sensor with a wind direction capture function. In another embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention relates to a method of using an observation optical instrument provided with an integrated direction sensor having a wind direction capture function.

Background Art

[0003] Conventional observation optical instruments, such as laser rangefinders including an integrated ballistic calculator, require either that the user manually enter the wind direction or that the observation optical instrument have an external device connected to it. Manually entering the wind direction into the observation optical instrument is very cumbersome and very inaccurate. The speed and direction of the wind are very important factors in calculating the ballistic solution. Equally important is the timeliness of entering this information before the wind direction changes or the target moves.

[0004] Generally, the wind direction is observed and / or measured on a first device and then manually entered into the observation optical instrument. For example, consider a hunter attempting to shoot a deer at 750 yards. The hunter obtains a ballistic solution based on an 8 mph wind at 75° relative to the hunter, and this data is pre - entered. Just before pulling the trigger, the wind changes direction and is now at 130° relative to the hunter. There is a high probability that the hunter will not be able to shoot if the hunter has to manually re - enter the wind direction by cycling through multiple menus and then updating the wind information.

[0005] Wind direction is the only factor used by ballistic computers to determine a bullet's trajectory. Additional environmental factors such as atmospheric pressure, humidity, and temperature also affect the bullet's trajectory. In many cases, users must carry multiple instruments to capture the environmental data that is desirable to input into the ballistic computer in order to generate a more accurate ballistic trajectory.

[0006] The same scenario can be applied to competitive shooting, where each shooter must be timed and make rapid adjustments to their shot. Before shooting, the shooter quickly inputs all environmental factors. Typically, wind direction and speed are the only parameters that are not directly input into the ballistic computer. Therefore, the shooter must quickly input them and set up to hit the target. If the wind changes direction or speed just before shooting, the shooter will need to input the new wind data into the ballistic computer mounted on the observation optics.

[0007] The following is an example of the steps required to input a wind speed of 10 mph coming from a direction of 320° relative to true north: (1) Press and hold the designated button for a pre-programmed amount of time to display the desired menu; (2) Navigate the user through menu options to another menu where they can press a designated button to adjust the wind direction; (3) Press the designated button to change the wind direction using standard clock time values ​​from 1:00 to 12:00, where each time represents a 30° segment of a 360° circle; (4) Press the designated button to be guided to a menu that allows you to adjust the wind speed; (5) Press the designated button and then press the designated increment / decrement button until the displayed value is, for example, 10 mph to input a wind speed of 10 mph; (6) Press and hold the designated button for a pre-programmed amount of time to exit the menu; and (7) Press the designated button to measure the distance. [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0008] [Non-Patent Document 1] William Davis, American rifleman, March 1989 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] As outlined above, observation optics with onboard ballistic computers require the user to navigate multiple menus to input wind direction and velocity and / or to use multiple instruments to obtain the necessary information and complete the ballistic calculation. In other words, there is still a need for observation optics such as binoculars or monoculars that can quickly obtain wind direction and / or eliminate the need for the user to carry multiple instruments. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In one embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention provides an observation optical instrument. In one embodiment, the observation optical instrument includes a direction sensor that determines the direction from which wind is coming. In another embodiment, the observation optical instrument further includes a distance measuring system that determines the distance from the user to a target. In yet another embodiment, the observation optical instrument further includes a processor that communicates with the distance measuring system and the direction sensor.

[0011] In another embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention relates to a direction sensor for determining the direction to a target when a distance measuring system is activated. In one embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention relates to a single direction sensor for determining the direction from which wind is coming and the direction of a target when a distance measuring system is activated. In one embodiment, only one direction sensor is required to determine the direction from which wind is coming and the direction of a target.

[0012] In one embodiment, the observation optical instrument includes a direction sensor, a ballistic computer that communicates with the direction sensor, and at least one button operatively connected to the direction sensor. In one embodiment, the direction sensor is a compass that captures / determines the direction from which the wind is coming. In one embodiment, the direction sensor also captures / determines the direction of a target when a ranging system is activated.

[0013] In one embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention relates to an observation optical instrument comprising a main body including a display, a rangefinder system mounted within the main body for measuring the distance to a target, a direction sensor mounted within the main body for determining the wind direction and the direction of the target when the rangefinder system is activated, and a processor mounted within the main body capable of controlling information to be displayed on the display. In one embodiment, the processor communicates with the direction sensor and the rangefinder system. In one embodiment, the processor has a ballistic computer program. In one embodiment, the ballistic computer program calculates a ballistic trajectory using the wind direction, the direction to the target, and the distance to the target.

[0014] In one embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention relates to a rangefinder. In one embodiment, the rangefinder includes a ranging system that determines the distance from a user to a target and a direction sensor that determines the direction from which the wind is coming. In another embodiment, the rangefinder further includes a processor that communicates with the ranging system and the wind direction sensor. In one embodiment, the direction sensor also acquires / determines the direction of the target when the ranging system is activated.

[0015] In one embodiment, the rangefinder processor communicates with a second device. In one embodiment, the second device includes, but is not limited to, a monocular, binoculars, observation optics, rifle scope, computer monitor, mobile device, or any other device having a screen for observation. In one embodiment, the rangefinder processor can communicate wirelessly with the second device.

[0016] In one embodiment, the rangefinder is directly coupled to the second device. In another embodiment, the rangefinder is indirectly coupled to the second device.

[0017] In one embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention relates to a rangefinder comprising a main unit, a rangefinder mounted within the main unit for measuring the distance to a target, a direction sensor mounted within the main unit for determining the wind direction and the direction of the target when the rangefinder system is activated, and a processor mounted within the main unit capable of communicating information from the direction sensor to a second device. In one embodiment, the second device has a display for showing relevant information, including the wind direction and ballistic trajectory, but is not limited to the following.

[0018] In one embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention relates to a weapon-mounted laser rangefinder.

[0019] In one embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention relates to a rangefinder comprising a body including a display, a rangefinder mounted within the body for measuring the distance to a target, a direction sensor mounted within the body for determining the wind direction, and a processor mounted within the body for communicating with the rangefinder and the direction sensor, the processor having a ballistic computer program that determines a ballistic trajectory communicated to the display using the distance from the rangefinder and the wind direction from the direction sensor. In one embodiment, the direction sensor also acquires / determines the direction of the target when the rangefinder is activated. In one embodiment, the ballistic computer program also calculates a ballistic trajectory using the direction of the target.

[0020] In one embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention relates to a rangefinder including a body, a ranging system mounted within the body for measuring the distance to a target, a direction sensor mounted within the body for determining the direction of the wind and the direction of the target, and a processor mounted within the body and communicating with the ranging system and the direction sensor. The processor has a ballistic computer program that uses the distance from the ranging system, the wind direction and the target direction from the direction sensor to determine a ballistic trajectory.

[0021] In one embodiment, a processor of an observation optical instrument or a rangefinder includes a ballistic computer program for accurately aiming a projectile at a target by analyzing information including, but not limited to, distance and wind direction. In one embodiment, a ballistic computer program that uses many factors including, but not limited to, a distance signal, wind direction, wind speed, and additional ballistic information determines a corrected aiming point for a projectile.

[0022] In another embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention provides a method for determining wind direction. The method includes accessing a wind direction capture mode of an observation optical instrument, turning the observation optical instrument in a direction corresponding to the direction from which the wind is coming, and capturing the wind direction by activating a direction sensor. In one embodiment, the method further includes entering the wind speed. In one embodiment, entering the wind speed includes pressing / squeezing / sliding one or more control devices such as buttons.

[0023] In another embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention provides a method for determining a ballistic trajectory, including accessing a wind direction capture mode of an observation optical instrument having a body, a direction sensor mounted within the body for determining the direction from which the wind comes, and a processor mounted within the body, communicating with the direction sensor, and having a ballistic computer program; orienting the observation optical instrument in a direction corresponding to the direction from which the wind comes; capturing the wind direction by activating the direction sensor; communicating the wind direction from the direction sensor to the ballistic computer program of the processor; and determining the ballistic trajectory using the ballistic computer program of the processor.

[0024] In another embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention provides a method for determining a ballistic trajectory, including accessing a wind direction capture mode of an observation optical instrument having a body, a ranging system for determining the distance to a target, a direction sensor mounted within the body for determining the direction from which the wind comes and the direction of the target when the ranging system is activated, and a processor mounted within the body, communicating with the direction sensor, and having a ballistic computer program; orienting the observation optical instrument in a direction corresponding to the direction from which the wind comes; capturing the wind direction by activating the direction sensor and communicating the wind direction to the processor; determining the distance to the target by activating the ranging system and simultaneously determining the direction of the target using the direction sensor; communicating the direction of the target from the direction sensor and the distance from the ranging system to the ballistic computer program of the processor; and determining the ballistic trajectory using the ballistic computer program of the processor.

[0025] Other embodiments will be apparent from the consideration of the drawings in conjunction with the detailed description provided herein.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] An isometric projection view of an exemplary observation optical instrument, a rangefinder monocular incorporating a wind direction capture functionality according to an embodiment of the disclosure of the present invention. [Figure 2]This is an isometric projection of an exemplary observation optical instrument, which is a rangefinder binocular incorporating wind direction acquisition functionality according to an embodiment of the disclosure of the present invention. [Figure 3] This figure shows an exemplary method using an observation optical instrument according to an embodiment of the disclosure of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] In one embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention relates to an observation optical instrument, more particularly to an observation optical instrument having wind direction acquisition functionality. In another embodiment, the disclosure of the present invention relates to a rangefinder, more particularly to a rangefinder having wind direction acquisition functionality. Certain preferred and exemplary embodiments of the disclosure of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The disclosure of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but rather these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and comprehensive and so as to convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0028] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the features and / or function sets can be readily adapted within the context of standalone observation optics, such as weapon sights, front-mounted or rear-mounted clip-on weapon sights, and other combinations of field-deployed optical weapon sights. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that various combinations of features and functions can be incorporated into add-on modules for replacing any range of existing fixed or variable observation optics.

[0029] definition Similar numbers consistently refer to similar elements. While terms such as 1, 2, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, areas, and / or sections, it will be understood that these elements, components, areas, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element, component, area, and / or section from another. Therefore, it is considered that a 1st element, component, area, or section may be referred to as a 2nd element, component, area, or section without departing from the disclosure of the present invention.

[0030] The numerical ranges in the disclosure of this invention are approximations and, unless otherwise indicated, may include values ​​outside the range. The numerical ranges include all values ​​from and including the lower and higher values ​​in increments of one unit, provided that there is a separation of at least two units between any lower and any higher value (unless otherwise specified). As an example, if a constitutive, physical, or other property such as distance, speed, or velocity is, for example, from 10 to 100, then all individual values ​​such as 10, 11, 12, and quasi-ranges such as 10 to 44, 55 to 70, 97 to 100, are intended to be explicitly enumerated. With respect to ranges that include values ​​less than 1 or fractions greater than 1 (e.g., 1.1, 1.5, etc.), one unit is considered to be, where appropriate, 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, or 0.1. With respect to ranges that include single-digit digits less than 10 (e.g., 1 to 5), one unit is considered to be typically 0.1. These are merely examples of what is specifically intended, and all possible combinations of numerical values ​​between the listed minimum and maximum values ​​are considered to be explicitly mentioned in the disclosure of the present invention. The range of numerical values ​​is provided within the disclosure of the present invention, in particular, with respect to the distance from the user of the device to the target.

[0031] Spatial terms such as “down,” “below,” “underside,” “up,” and “above” can be used in the present invention to facilitate explanation of the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature, as shown in the figure. It will be understood that spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation shown in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is inverted, the element described as “below” or “below” another element or feature will be oriented “above” the other element or feature. Thus, the exemplary term “down” can encompass both upward and downward orientations. The device may be oriented in other directions (rotated 90° or in other directions), and the spatially relative descriptors used in the present invention will be interpreted accordingly.

[0032] When used herein, the term "and / or" includes all combinations of one or more of the items described in relation to the subject. For example, when used in a phrase such as "A and / or B," the phrase "and / or" is intended to include A and B, A or B, A (alone), and B (alone). Similarly, when used in a phrase such as "A, B, and / or C," the term "and / or" is intended to include each of the following embodiments: A, B, and C, A, B, or C, A or C, A or B, B or C, A and C, A and B, B and C, A (alone), B (alone), and C (alone).

[0033] As used herein, the term “anemometer” refers to an instrument that measures the force, speed, and, in some embodiments, the direction of wind. Anemometers include, but are not limited to, impeller-type anemometers, ultrasonic anemometers, hot-wire anemometers, pressure tube anemometers, Robinson anemometers, and laser Doppler anemometers.

[0034] As used herein, the term “ballistics” refers to the mechanics of launching, flying, behaving, and effects of projectiles, particularly bullets, unguided bombs, or rockets, as well as the fields of science or technology for designing and accelerating projectiles to achieve desired performance.

[0035] As used herein, the term "ballistic computer" refers to a computer program that provides a solution to the trajectory of a projectile to the user / shooter / spectator. In one embodiment, the ballistic computer is used to generate a corrected target point for the projectile. As used herein, the terms "ballistic computer" and "ballistic computer program" are used interchangeably.

[0036] As used herein, the term “barometric pressure sensor” refers to a device, instrument, or assembly that measures the pressure exerted by the atmosphere and any changes in such pressure.

[0037] As used herein, the term "bullet" typically refers to a projectile intended to be fired from a firearm such as a rifle or revolver, which is typically made of metal, cylindrical, and directional. Bullets may sometimes contain explosives.

[0038] As used herein, the terms “computer memory” and “computer memory device” refer to any storage medium readable by a computer processor. Examples of computer memory include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, computer chips, digital video discs (DVDs), compact discs (CDs), hard disk drives (HDDs), and magnetic tape.

[0039] As used herein, the term “computer-readable media” refers to any device or system that stores and supplies information (e.g., data and instructions) to a computer processor. Examples of computer-readable media include, but are not limited to, DVDs, CDs, hard disk drives, memory chips, magnetic tapes, and servers for streaming media for networks.

[0040] As used herein, the terms “processor” and “central processing unit” or “CPU” refer to a device that is interchangeable and capable of reading a program from computer memory (e.g., ROM or other computer memory) and executing a set of steps according to the program.

[0041] As used herein, the term “direction sensor” refers to a device, instrument, or assembly used with respect to the orientation of a device to which a direction sensor is connected or integrated, relative to a basic direction. In embodiments, the direction sensor is a compass.

[0042] As used herein, the term “firearm” refers to a portable gun, which is a barreled weapon that fires one or more projectiles, often driven by the action of an explosive force. Exemplary firearms include, but are not limited to, pistols, rifles, shotguns, carbines, automatic weapons, semi-automatic weapons, mechanical guns, light machine guns, automatic rifles, and assault rifles.

[0043] As used herein, the term “humidity sensor” refers to a device, instrument, or assembly that senses, measures, and, in some embodiments, reports the relative humidity of the environment in which it is exposed, such as the air.

[0044] As used herein, the term "laser rangefinder" refers to a device or assembly that uses a laser beam to determine the distance to a target object.

[0045] As used herein, the terms “on top,” “connected,” and “joined” mean, when used in relation to two components, elements, or layers, that the two components, elements, or layers are directly or indirectly and physically or operationally connected to each other, and that one or more intervening components, elements, or layers may be present. In contrast, the terms “directly on top,” “directly connected,” and “directly joined” mean that the two components, elements, or layers are physically or operationally connected to each other without any intervening components, elements, or layers.

[0046] As used herein, the term “temperature sensor” refers to a device, instrument, or assembly that senses, measures, and, in some embodiments, reports the temperature of an environment in which it is exposed, such as the air.

[0047] As used herein, the term "user" refers to either the operator performing the firing or an individual observing the firing in conjunction with the operator.

[0048] As used herein, the term “observation optics” refers to a device or assembly used by a user, shooter, or observer to select, identify, and / or monitor a target. Observation optics may rely on optical observation of the target, or on other imaging of the target, such as infrared (IR), ultraviolet (UV), radar, thermal, microwave, magnetoimaging, X-ray, gamma-ray, radiation including isotope and particle radiation, night vision, ultrasound, sound pulses, sonar, seismic vibration, vibration receptors including magnetic resonance, gravity receptors, radio waves, broadcast receptors including television, and cell receptors. The image of the target presented to the user / shooter / observer by the observation optics may be immutable or enhanced by means of, for example, magnification, amplification, subtraction, superimposition, filtering, stabilization, template matching, or other means. The target selected, identified, and / or monitored by the observation optics may be the shooter's sight line or tangential to the shooter's sight. In other embodiments, the shooter's line of sight may be obstructed while the observation optics present a focused image of the target. The image of the target obtained by the observation optics can be, for example, analog or digital and can be shared, stored, archived, or transmitted within a network of one or more shooters and observers by means of other wireless transmission using protocols such as Bluetooth®, Serial, USB, or other suitable image distribution methods, such as video, physical cables or wires, IR, radio waves, mobile phone connections, laser pulses, optical 802.11b, or HTML, SML, SOAP, X.25, SNA, etc.

[0049] Apparatus and methods disclosed herein relate to observation optical instruments. In one embodiment, the observation optical instrument has a main body and a direction sensor mounted within the main body to determine wind direction. In one embodiment, the direction sensor is coupled to the observation optical instrument. In one embodiment, the direction sensor is directly or indirectly coupled to the observation optical instrument. In one embodiment, the direction sensor is integrated into the observation optical instrument. In one embodiment, the direction sensor is a compass having a three-axis accelerometer and a three-axis magnetometer.

[0050] In one embodiment, the apparatus and method disclosed herein relate to an observation optical instrument having a distance measuring function. In one embodiment, the observation optical instrument disclosed herein can determine one or more variables that affect the trajectory of a flying object. In one embodiment, the observation optical instrument disclosed herein can determine distance information to a target, automatically determine atmospheric pressure, ambient temperature, and relative humidity, and can provide a simple method for determining wind direction.

[0051] In one embodiment, the observation optical instrument includes a rangefinder system that determines distance information to a target, a wind direction sensor that determines wind direction, and a processor that communicates with the rangefinder system and the wind direction sensor and has a ballistic computer program, the ballistic computer program using distance and wind direction to determine the trajectory of the projectile. In one embodiment, the ballistic computer program can calculate a corrected target point.

[0052] Figure 1 is an isometric projection of an exemplary observation optics instrument 100, which is a rangefinder monocular incorporating wind direction acquisition functionality according to an embodiment of the disclosure of the present invention. In one embodiment, the observation optics instrument 100 has a body having a direction sensor that can determine the wind direction without requiring the user to input variables into the system. The direction sensor can automatically determine the wind direction. In one embodiment, the observation optics instrument 100 uses the direction sensor to determine the wind direction based on the location of the observation optics instrument 100. In one embodiment, the observation optics instrument 100 may have a display.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the observation optical instrument 100 includes a menu button 1, a measurement button 2, a wind capture button 3, and first and second selection buttons 4 and 5, respectively. The observation optical instrument 100 further includes onboard rangefinder functionality. The menu button 1 allows the user to access the onboard rangefinder functionality and, for example, enter and exit various modes. The measurement button 2 is used to emit a laser to obtain the distance to an intended target. The wind capture button 3 is used to enter and exit modes, thereby enabling wind direction and / or wind speed capture. The first and second selection buttons 4 and 5 allow the user to navigate through menus and / or increase or decrease wind speed when in wind capture mode. In one embodiment, the first and second selection buttons 4 and 5 allow the user to increase or decrease wind speed independently of the onboard rangefinder mode.

[0054] In one embodiment, when the measurement button 2 is activated, the direction sensor can determine the direction to the target.

[0055] In one embodiment, the types of variables and features that can be adjusted in menu mode include, but are not limited to, profile, wind speed, ballistic coefficient, muzzle velocity, drag standard, aiming height, and zero distance. In some embodiments, parameters of an observation optics that can be adjusted or data can be entered can be classified as menu options and menu selections. For example, menu options may be the parameters or variables themselves, such as distance units or ballistic coefficients. Menu selections then become the selected values ​​or data inputs for those parameters, which can be presented by scrolling or selecting options, or entered manually into the observation optics itself or through data input from yet another device. In one embodiment, a menu option allows for the selection of distance units, and the user can select yards or meters from the menu selections.

[0056] Figure 2 is an isometric projection of an exemplary observation optical instrument 100, which is a rangefinder binocular incorporating wind direction acquisition functionality according to an embodiment of the disclosure of the present invention. Similar to the rangefinder monocular 100, the binocular 100' also has, respectively, an onboard ballistic computer (as described above), a menu button 1, a measurement button 2, a wind acquisition button 3, and first and second selection buttons 4, 5. The menu button 1 allows the user to access the onboard rangefinder functionality and, for example, enter and exit various modes. The measurement button 2 is used to fire a laser to obtain the distance to an intended target. The wind acquisition button 3 is used to enter and exit modes, thereby enabling wind direction acquisition and / or wind speed acquisition. The first and second selection buttons 4, 5 allow the user to navigate through the menu and / or increase or decrease wind speed when in wind acquisition mode. In one embodiment, the first and second selection buttons 4, 5 allow the user to increase or decrease wind speed independently of the onboard rangefinder mode.

[0057] In some embodiments, the observation optical instrument 100 / 100' further includes an integrated direction sensor, such as a compass (not shown). The direction sensor is independent of the ballistic computer or, in yet another embodiment, can communicate with the ballistic computer (directly or indirectly). In a particular embodiment shown, the direction sensor is operationally coupled to a wind capture button 3. Activation of the wind capture button 3 causes the wind direction to be measured and / or captured.

[0058] In one embodiment, the direction sensor is a compass having a 6-axis integrated linear accelerometer and a magnetometer. In another embodiment, the direction sensor is a compass having a 3-axis accelerometer and a 3-axis magnetometer.

[0059] In one embodiment, the direction sensor can determine the direction to the target when the measurement button 2 is activated. In one embodiment, the direction sensor determines the direction to the target when the distance measuring system is activated. In one embodiment, the direction of the target is calculated based on the captured wind direction.

[0060] In one embodiment, the direction sensor determines the direction to the target based on the direction of the captured wind, and the direction to the target can be stored in one or more memory devices.

[0061] In the embodiment, the observation optical instrument 100 / 100' further includes a ranging system (not shown). A typical ranging system uses a laser beam to determine the distance to an object or target, operating by sending a laser pulse toward the target and measuring the time it takes for the pulse to reflect back from the target. In general terms, the laser pulse is emitted from a transmitter such as a pulsed laser diode. Part of the emitted beam passes through a beam splitter and part is reflected by a detector. The emitted laser pulse passes through a transmission lens to the target, which reflects part of the laser pulse back to a receiving lens, then through a receiver to a microcontroller unit, which calculates the distance to the target using known mathematical principles. The ranging system can be a more complex system having additional or alternative components, such as gain control components, charging capacitors, and analog-to-digital converters, as an example.

[0062] In embodiments, the observation optical instrument 100 / 100' further includes at least one sensor from among an anemometer, a barometric pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, and a temperature sensor. In preferred embodiments, the observation optical instrument 100 / 100' includes at least one, at least two, at least three, or all four from among an anemometer, a barometric pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, and a temperature sensor. These sensors are operationally coupled to a ballistic computer so that the ballistic computer can utilize data captured by one or more sensors to determine the trajectory of a projectile.

[0063] In yet another embodiment, one or more sensors are operationally coupled to a memory device. The memory device stores the data captured by one or more sensors.

[0064] In yet another embodiment, one or more sensors are operatively coupled to a display, and as a result, data captured by one or more sensors can be displayed.

[0065] In one embodiment, ballistic parameters associated with temperature, atmospheric pressure, humidity, altitude, and ambient light conditions are sensed by a thermometer, barometer, hygrometer, altimeter, and photometer, respectively. The digital readings sensed from each of these digital ballistic parameter instruments are also configured to be transmitted (e.g., in real time) to a processor having a ballistic computer program.

[0066] In one embodiment, the observation optical instrument may have an inertial navigation unit including, but is not limited to, a three-axis compass, a three-axis accelerometer, and a three-axis gyroscope. In another embodiment, the three-axis compass, three-axis accelerometer, and three-axis gyroscope may be incorporated into the observation optical instrument 100 / 100' as individual components with appropriate software, rather than being incorporated into the observation optical instrument 100 / 100' as an integrated unit. In yet another embodiment, the gyroscope may be omitted. Furthermore, other tilt sensors may be used instead of the accelerometer. Examples of other tilt sensors include electrolyte level tilt sensors, optical bubble tilt sensors, capacitive bubble tilt sensors, pendulum mechanisms, rotating optical encoders, rotating electroresistive encoders, Hall effect devices, and ceramic capacitive tilt sensors.

[0067] In one embodiment, the observation optical instrument 100 / 100' has a processor or computer device that includes a ballistic computer or ballistic computer program that a user can access using one or more buttons operatively connected to a ballistic computer to determine the trajectory of a projectile, the distance to a target, and environmental factors (such as wind speed and wind direction) based on one or more factors such as the weight of the projectile.

[0068] In one embodiment, the ballistic computer calculates a ballistic solution using two variables obtained from a direction sensor: (1) the direction from which the wind is coming and (2) the direction to the target. In one embodiment, the direction to the target is acquired at the same time as the distance to the target is determined by a ranging system. In one embodiment, the direction to the target is calculated with respect to the acquired wind direction.

[0069] In one embodiment, the processor containing the ballistic computer program includes, but is not limited to, information on external field conditions (e.g., date, time, temperature, relative humidity, target image resolution, atmospheric pressure, wind speed, wind direction, hemisphere, latitude, longitude, altitude), firearm information (e.g., barrel twist ratio and direction, internal barrel caliber, internal barrel bore diameter, and barrel length), projectile information (e.g., projectile weight, projectile diameter, projectile caliber, reflector cross-sectional density, one or more projectile ballistic coefficients (wherein used herein, "ballistic coefficient" means William As illustrated by Davis, American Rifleman, March 1989 (and incorporated herein by reference), projectile composition, propellant type, propellant quantity, propellant potential, primer, and muzzle velocity of the cartridge, target acquisition device and reticle information (e.g., reticle type, magnification, first, second, or fixed plane of function, distance between target acquisition device and barrel, positional relationship between target acquisition device and barrel, distance at which the telescopic sight is zeroed using a particular firearm and cartridge), and information relating to the shooter. The system can receive one or more forms of ballistic data, including chiple information (e.g., shooter's visual acuity, visual dysphoria, heart rate and rhythm, respiratory rate, blood oxygen saturation, muscle activity, electroencephalogram activity, and the number and position coordinates of the observers assisting the shooter), the relationship between the shooter and the target (e.g., the distance between the shooter and the target, the speed and direction of movement of the target relative to the shooter or the shooter relative to the target (e.g., if the shooter is in a moving vehicle), and the direction from true north), and the angle of the rifle barrel relative to a line drawn perpendicular to gravity.

[0070] In the embodiment, the observation optics 100 and, in particular, the ballistic calculator have at least two user-selectable modes, including, but not limited to, a "ballistic" mode. Ballistic calculations are extremely important to the shooter at distances exceeding 500 yards. At these distances, the effects of gravity, bullet characteristics, gun characteristics, temperature, atmospheric pressure, relative humidity, wind direction, and wind speed have a greater influence on the overall trajectory of the bullet.

[0071] In one embodiment, wind data, temperature data, and other environmental field data can be fed from a remote sensing device to a processor. In one embodiment, the remote sensing device can be linked wirelessly to the processor. The processor can determine one or more ballistic parameters from data collected from a rangefinder, inclinometer, and remote sensing device, and then calculate the required point of sight (POA) versus point of impact (POI) adjustments based on these ballistic parameters. The processor can then transmit data signals representing the required or desired vertical and drift adjustments for POI versus POA adjustments to a display. As described above, such communication of signals between the processor and the display can be achieved by a wired or wireless link.

[0072] In embodiments, the observation optical instrument 100 / 100' further includes a memory device (not shown). The memory device may be located inside the observation optical instrument 100 / 100' so as to be contained within the observation optical instrument 100 / 100', or it may be located outside the observation optical instrument 100 / 100' and be able to communicate with the observation optical instrument 100 / 100' (wired or wirelessly). In such embodiments, the memory device is operationally connected to a direction sensor and a ballistic computer. In embodiments, the connection to the direction sensor and / or ballistic computer may be wired, or wireless communication technology may be utilized. In embodiments having a memory device, the captured wind direction data may be stored in the memory device and made accessible to the ballistic computer.

[0073] Furthermore, using the captured and stored wind direction, the user can continuously measure the distance to a target and obtain a wind-corrected ballistic solution, as long as the wind direction or speed does not change. However, when the wind is steady, the user only needs to measure the distance to a new target, which provides a simple and efficient process for obtaining a wind-corrected ballistic solution.

[0074] In some embodiments, the observation optics 100 / 100' includes a display. The display may be integrated within the sight of the observation optics 100 / 100' or visible outside of the observation optics 100 / 100'. In yet another embodiment, the display may be a separate component from the observation optics 100 / 100', such as a computer, tablet, mobile phone, television, or other device, or may communicate with the observation optics 100 / 100'. The display may be configured to show various information, including menu options and ballistic data.

[0075] In certain embodiments, the display is configured to show the distance to the target. For example, when the observation optics 100 / 100' includes laser rangefinder functionality as described above and with particular reference to the measurement button 2, the ballistic computer will calculate the distance to the target. When the measurement button 2 is activated (e.g., pressed), the observation optics 100 / 100' will emit a laser beam that the user guides toward a desired target. The laser beam reflects from the target and returns to the observation optics 100 / 100'. The ballistic computer calculates the distance from the observation optics 100 / 100' to the target based on the signal intensity and the time it took for it to receive the reflected beam.

[0076] In yet another embodiment, the observation optical instrument 100 / 100' includes an inclinometer. In such an embodiment, the display may be configured to show the elevation angle of the target.

[0077] It will be acknowledged that the specific shapes, configurations, and physical designs of buttons 1 to 5 described herein may differ, provided that buttons 1 to 5 are operationally connected to an onboard rangefinder system to enable their functionality.

[0078] In this embodiment, the observation optical instrument 100 / 100' assists the user in correcting wind direction and speed.

[0079] As mentioned above, wind direction and velocity can have a significant impact on bullet trajectory. In addition, atmospheric pressure, ambient temperature, and relative humidity also affect the trajectory. While the distance from the shooter to the target is often the most important factor, each of the environmental factors mentioned above can greatly influence the trajectory. The table below shows the effect of changing some of these parameters by just 10%.

[0080] (Table 1) TIFF0007879843000001.tif58158

[0081] In fact, Table 1 shows that changing the distance to the target has the greatest impact on the trajectory, according to atmospheric pressure and wind speed. For example, when using a particular firearm with a given ammunition and a constant target at 1,000 yards, wind direction and speed can significantly affect the bullet's range up to 80 inches or more. As a specific example, the following values ​​show the expected effect of wind on the bullet trajectory based on a user shooting a target at 1,000 yards with a Winchester .308 rifle, Hornaday ELD-X 178-grain bullet, at rifle zero distance of 100 yards, muzzle velocity of 2,650 feet / second, atmospheric pressure of 29.08 Hg, temperature of 70°F, and relative humidity of 60%. (1) The wind direction is 0° relative to the target at a speed of 0 miles per hour (mph). The bullet will drop approximately 357 inches and travel approximately 6 inches to the left. (2) The wind direction is 90° to the target at a speed of 10 mph. The bullet will drop approximately 357 inches and travel approximately 75 inches to the left. (3) The wind direction is 40° to the target at a speed of 10 mph. The bullet will drop approximately 359 inches and travel approximately 47 inches to the left.

[0082] The above scenario illustrates how a 10 mph wind coming from different directions affects a bullet's trajectory. It can be observed that the greater the distance to the target, the greater the effect of the wind on the bullet's trajectory.

[0083] Figure 3 shows an exemplary method 300 for inputting wind speed coming from a certain direction into an observation optical instrument according to an embodiment of the disclosure of the present invention.

[0084] First, access is provided to a mode that enables the wind direction to be captured using a direction sensor. In embodiments, the step of accessing mode 305 includes pressing and holding a button (or pressing a specific sequence of buttons) to enter a mode that will enable the wind direction to be captured using a direction sensor. In embodiments, the designated button is the wind capture button 3 as described herein. In embodiments, the step of pressing and holding the designated button 305 includes pressing and holding the designated button for a specified period of time, for example, 3 to 6 seconds, more preferably 3 to 5 seconds. Note that step 305 may be unnecessary if the wind capture mode has already been accessed.

[0085] Next, orient the observation optical instrument in the direction from which the wind is coming (step 310).

[0086] With the observation optical instrument in the correct mode and pointed in the correct direction, the user presses a button to capture the wind direction (step 315). In embodiments, the button may be the same as the designated button in step 305. In yet another embodiment, the button is the wind capture button 3 as described herein. In embodiments, the step of pressing the wind direction capture button includes pressing and holding the button for a specified time, which is generally less than the designated time in step 305, for example, less than 2 seconds, more preferably less than 1 second.

[0087] In this embodiment, the step of pressing a button to capture wind direction further includes the step of automatically inputting the wind direction data into the ballistic computer and / or memory device mounted on the observation optical instrument.

[0088] Step 320 is the step of pressing one or more buttons to control the wind speed value. In the embodiment, the observation optical instrument includes two buttons, such as the first and second selection buttons 4, 5 described above, one of which allows the user to increase the wind speed value and the other button which decreases the wind speed value.

[0089] Next, the distance value is acquired by activating the distance measuring system (step 325). In addition, when the distance measuring system is activated, the direction sensor also acquires the direction to the target. In this embodiment, the step of acquiring the distance value includes aiming the observation optical instrument at the target and pressing a designated button to measure the distance. At the same time, the direction sensor determines the direction to the target.

[0090] In the embodiment, the designated button is the measurement button 2 as described herein. In the embodiment, the step of pressing the designated button 325 includes, for example, pressing and holding the designated button for a period of time necessary to obtain a consistent measurement.

[0091] Optionally, in the final step 330 for exiting input mode, press and hold a designated button (or press a sequence of buttons). In embodiments, the designated button is menu button 1 as described herein. In embodiments, the step of pressing and holding the designated button 330 includes pressing and holding the designated button 330 for a specified period of time, for example, 3 to 6 seconds, more preferably 3 to 5 seconds. While useful for exiting ballistic calculator mode after setting each of the parameters as described above, doing so is not generally necessary for using observation optics.

[0092] In yet another embodiment, the method further includes a step of entering and exiting different modes by pressing (and, in some cases, holding) a designated button, and capturing and / or displaying information obtained from additional sensors, including, but not limited to, an anemometer, a barometer, a humidity sensor, and a temperature sensor. The step associated with capturing and / or displaying data obtained from the anemometer, barometer, humidity sensor, and temperature sensor may be completed before or after step 330, step 305, step 320, step 325, or step 330. Information captured by one or more of the sensors may be stored in a memory device.

[0093] In other embodiments, the method includes a step of automatically acquiring data from one or more sensors, including an anemometer, a barometric pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, and a temperature sensor, using a ballistic computer. When data from the anemometer, barometric pressure sensor, humidity sensor, and temperature sensor is automatically acquired, the data may be acquired simultaneously with any of steps 305 to 330, or before or after any of steps 305 to 330.

[0094] The methods and structures disclosed herein will be recognized as improving the accuracy and timeliness of firing, even when the wind direction and speed remain constant. Having the user simply orient the observation optics in the direction of the wind and having wind information stored in a memory device allows the ballistic computer to refer to the direction for all distances, regardless of the orientation of the observation optics.

[0095] The apparatus and methods disclosed herein are further described by the following clauses.

[0096] 1. An observation optical instrument / rangefinder comprising a main unit, a direction sensor mounted inside the main unit for determining the direction of wind, and a processor mounted inside the main unit capable of controlling information to be displayed on a screen.

[0097] 2. An observation optical instrument / rangefinder comprising a main unit, a direction sensor mounted inside the main unit for determining the direction of wind, and a processor mounted inside the main unit that communicates with the direction sensor and can control information to be displayed on a display.

[0098] 3. An observation optical instrument / rangefinder comprising a main unit, a direction sensor mounted inside the main unit for determining the direction of the wind, and a processor mounted inside the main unit that communicates with the direction sensor and can display the wind direction on a display.

[0099] 4. An observation optical instrument / rangefinder comprising a main unit including a display, a distance measuring system mounted inside the main unit for measuring the distance to a target, a direction sensor mounted inside the main unit for determining the wind direction, and a processor mounted inside the main unit that can control information to be displayed on the display.

[0100] 5. An observation optical instrument / rangefinder comprising a main unit including a display, a distance measuring system mounted inside the main unit for measuring the distance to a target, a direction sensor mounted inside the main unit for determining the wind direction, and a processor mounted inside the main unit that communicates with the distance measuring system and the direction sensor and can control the information to be displayed on the display.

[0101] 6. An observation optical instrument / rangefinder comprising a main unit including a display, a rangefinder mounted within the main unit for measuring the distance to a target, a direction sensor mounted within the main unit for determining the wind direction, and a processor equipped with a ballistic computer mounted within the main unit that communicates with the rangefinder and direction sensor and determines a ballistic trajectory communicated to the display using the distance from the rangefinder and the wind direction from the direction sensor.

[0102] 7. Observation optics / rangefinder including a main unit with a display, a rangefinder mounted inside the main unit for measuring the distance to a target, a direction sensor mounted inside the main unit for determining the wind direction, and a processor mounted inside the main unit that communicates with the rangefinder and direction sensor and has a ballistic computer that determines a target point corrected using the distance from the rangefinder and the wind direction from the direction sensor.

[0103] 8. Any observation optical instrument / rangefinder as described in the preceding clause, further including a processor installed inside the main unit.

[0104] 9. An observation optical instrument / rangefinder that determines the distance to a target and further includes a distance measuring system mounted within the main body, as described in any of the preceding clauses.

[0105] 10. The processor communicates with any of the preceding observation optical instruments / rangefinders.

[0106] 11. The processor communicates with one of the preceding observation optical instruments / rangefinders in the direction sensor.

[0107] 12. An observation optical instrument / rangefinder of any of the preceding clauses, equipped with a ballistic computer that determines the ballistic trajectory using distance from a ranging system and wind direction from a direction sensor.

[0108] 13. An observation optical instrument / rangefinder of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a memory device for storing information from a direction sensor, wherein the memory device communicates with the direction sensor.

[0109] 14. An observation optical instrument / rangefinder of any of the preceding clauses further comprising at least one additional sensor selected from the group consisting of anemometers, barometric pressure sensors, humidity sensors, and temperature sensors, and combinations thereof.

[0110] 15. Any observation optical instrument / rangefinder of the preceding clause further comprising a first button mounted on the main body and operatively connected to the rangefinder system.

[0111] 16. An observation optical instrument / rangefinder of any of the preceding clauses further comprising a second button mounted on the main body and operatively connected to a direction sensor.

[0112] 17. Any observation optical instrument / rangefinder of the preceding clause further includes a third button for adjusting the wind speed after the direction sensor has been engaged.

[0113] 18. A rangefinder binocular is an observation optical instrument / rangefinder of any of the preceding clauses.

[0114] 19. A rangefinder monocular, which is an observation optical instrument / rangefinder of any of the preceding clauses.

[0115] 20. An observation optical instrument / rangefinder of any of the preceding clauses in which the direction sensor is a compass.

[0116] 21. The direction sensor is an observation optical instrument / rangefinder of any of the preceding clauses, which is a compass having a 3-axis accelerometer and a 3-axis magnetometer.

[0117] 22. A method for calculating a ballistic trajectory, comprising the steps of: orienting an observation optical instrument having a main body, a direction sensor mounted inside the main body, and a processor that communicates with the direction sensor and has a ballistic program, in a direction corresponding to the direction from which the wind is coming; capturing the wind direction by activating or communicating with the direction sensor; communicating the wind direction to the processor; and determining the trajectory using the ballistic program.

[0118] 23. A method for calculating a ballistic trajectory, comprising the steps of: orienting an observation optical instrument having a main unit, a direction sensor mounted inside the main unit, and a processor that communicates with the direction sensor and has a ballistic program, in a direction corresponding to the direction from which the wind is coming; capturing the wind direction by pressing a button that communicates with the direction sensor; inputting the wind speed by pressing one or more buttons; communicating the wind direction and wind speed to the processor; and determining the trajectory using the wind direction and wind speed in the ballistic program.

[0119] 24. A method for calculating a ballistic trajectory, comprising the steps of: orienting an observation optical instrument, which includes a main unit, a direction sensor mounted inside the main unit, a range measuring system for determining the distance to a target, and a processor that communicates with the direction sensor and the range measuring system and has a ballistic program, in a direction corresponding to the direction from which the wind is coming; capturing the wind direction by activating the direction sensor; inputting the wind speed; determining the distance to the target by activating the range measuring system; communicating the wind direction, wind speed, and distance to the target to the processor; and determining the ballistic trajectory using the wind direction, wind speed, and distance in the ballistic program.

[0120] 25. A method for calculating a ballistic trajectory, comprising the steps of: orienting an observation optical instrument, which includes a main unit, a direction sensor mounted inside the main unit, a distance measuring system for determining the distance to a target, and a processor that communicates with the direction sensor and the distance measuring system and has a ballistic program, in a direction corresponding to the direction from which the wind is coming; capturing the wind direction by pressing a button that communicates with the direction sensor; inputting the wind speed by pressing one or more buttons; determining the distance to the target by pressing a button that communicates with the distance measuring system; communicating the wind direction, wind speed, and distance to the target to the processor; and determining the ballistic trajectory using the wind direction, wind speed, and distance in the ballistic program.

[0121] 26. A method for determining wind direction, comprising the steps of: orienting an observation optical instrument having a main body with a display, a direction sensor mounted inside the main body, and a processor that communicates with the direction sensor in a direction corresponding to the direction from which the wind is coming; capturing the wind direction by pressing a button that communicates with the direction sensor; and communicating the wind direction to the display.

[0122] 27. A method for determining wind direction, comprising the steps of: accessing the wind capture mode of an observation optical instrument having a main unit with a display, a direction sensor mounted inside the main unit, and a processor that communicates with the direction sensor; orienting the observation optical instrument in a direction corresponding to the direction from which the wind is coming; capturing the wind direction by pressing a button that communicates with the direction sensor; and communicating the wind direction to the display.

[0123] 28. Any method of the preceding clause further including a step of accessing the wind direction acquisition mode of the observation optical instrument before pointing the observation optical instrument.

[0124] 29. Any method of the preceding clause further comprising the step of accessing the wind direction acquisition mode by pressing a button that communicates with the direction sensor before pointing the observation optical instrument.

[0125] 30. Any method of the preceding clause further comprising the step of inputting wind speed and communicating the wind speed to the processor.

[0126] 31. Any method of the preceding clause in which the step of activating the direction sensor includes a step of pressing / pushing / sliding the control device so that the direction sensor is active or in ON mode.

[0127] 32. Any method of the preceding clause, in which the step of activating the ranging system includes a step of pressing / pushing / sliding a control device so that the ranging system is active or in ON mode.

[0128] 33.1 Any method of the preceding clause further comprising the step of inputting wind speed by pressing one or more buttons or control devices.

[0129] 34. Any method of the preceding clause, further comprising the step of storing the wind direction on a memory device.

[0130] 35. Any method of the preceding clause, further comprising the step of acquiring a distance value by aiming an observation optical instrument at a target and activating a ranging system.

[0131] 36. Any method of the preceding clause, further comprising the step of aiming an observation optical instrument at a target and pressing a designated button to communicate with a ranging system to obtain a distance value.

[0132] 37. Any method of the preceding clause, further comprising the step of capturing information from one or more sensors of an observation optical instrument, wherein the sensors are selected from the group consisting of anemometers, barometers, humidity sensors, and temperature sensors.

[0133] 38. Any observation optical instrument / rangefinder in which the direction sensor also determines the direction of the target.

[0134] 39. An observation optical instrument / rangefinder in which the direction sensor also determines the direction of the target when the distance measuring system is activated.

[0135] 40. A ballistic computer program further uses the direction of the target from the direction sensor to determine the ballistic trajectory of any of the preceding observation optical instruments / rangefinders.

[0136] 41. A unidirectional sensor determines the direction from which the wind is coming and the direction of the target using any of the preceding observation optical instruments / rangefinders.

[0137] 42. Any rangefinder in any of the preceding clauses that does not have a display.

[0138] 43. Any of the rangefinders in the preceding clauses that communicates with a second device having a display.

[0139] While several embodiments of the observation optical instrument / rangefinder have been described in detail herein, modifications and alterations are possible, and it should be clear that all of them fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. In relation to the foregoing description, it is acknowledged that the optimal dimensional relationships for the components of the observation optical instrument disclosed herein include variations in size, material, shape, form, function, mode of operation, assembly, and use, and all equivalent relationships with those shown in the drawings and described herein are intended to be encompassed by the embodiments of the disclosure. Furthermore, since many modifications and alterations are considered readily conceivable to those skilled in the art, we do not intend to limit the invention to the illustrated and described configurations and operations, and therefore, all appropriate modifications and equivalents are required to fall within the scope of the disclosure. Other embodiments of the present invention are described below. [Embodiment 1] The main unit including the display, A distance measuring system installed inside the main body for measuring the distance to the target, A direction sensor is installed inside the main body to determine the direction of the wind and the direction of the target, A processor installed inside the main unit and capable of controlling information to be displayed on the display, An observation optical instrument characterized by including [this]. [Embodiment 2] The observation optical instrument according to Embodiment 1, characterized in that the processor communicates with the distance measuring system. [Embodiment 3] The observation optical instrument according to Embodiment 2, characterized in that the processor communicates with the direction sensor. [Embodiment 4] The observation optical instrument according to Embodiment 3, characterized in that the processor has a ballistic computer program that determines a ballistic trajectory using the distance from the ranging system and the wind direction from the direction sensor. [Embodiment 5] The system further includes a memory device for storing information from the direction sensor, The memory device communicates with the direction sensor. An observation optical instrument according to Embodiment 1, characterized by the features described herein. [Embodiment 6] The observation optical instrument according to Embodiment 1, further comprising at least one additional sensor selected from the group consisting of an anemometer, a barometric pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, and a temperature sensor, and combinations thereof. [Embodiment 7] The observation optical instrument according to Embodiment 1, further comprising a first button mounted on the main body and operatively connected to the distance measuring system. [Embodiment 8] The observation optical instrument according to Embodiment 1, further comprising a second button mounted on the main body and operatively connected to the direction sensor. [Embodiment 9] The observation optical instrument according to Embodiment 1, further comprising a third button for adjusting the wind speed after the engagement of the direction sensor. [Embodiment 10] The observation optical instrument according to Embodiment 1, characterized in that it is a rangefinder binocular. [Embodiment 11] The observation optical instrument according to Embodiment 1, characterized in that it is a rangefinder monocular. [Embodiment 12] The main unit and A distance measuring system installed inside the main body for measuring the distance to the target, A direction sensor is installed inside the main body to determine the direction of the wind and the direction of the target, A processor mounted within the main body and communicating with the range measuring system and the direction sensor, the processor having a ballistic computer program that determines a ballistic trajectory using the distance from the range measuring system, the wind direction from the direction sensor and the direction of the target, A rangefinder characterized by including [a specific feature]. [Embodiment 13] The system further includes a memory device for storing information from the direction sensor, The memory device communicates with the direction sensor. A rangefinder according to embodiment 12, characterized by the features described herein. [Embodiment 14] The distance measuring device according to embodiment 12, further comprising at least one additional sensor selected from the group consisting of an anemometer, a barometric pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, and a temperature sensor, and combinations thereof. [Embodiment 15] The distance measuring device according to embodiment 12, characterized in that the direction sensor determines the direction of the wind without manual input from the user. [Embodiment 16] A method for calculating ballistic trajectories, The process involves orienting an observation optical instrument, which includes a main unit, a direction sensor mounted inside the main unit, and a processor that communicates with the direction sensor and has a ballistic program, in a direction corresponding to the direction from which the wind is coming. The steps include: activating the direction sensor to capture the wind direction, The steps include communicating the wind direction to the processor, The steps include determining the ballistic trajectory using the aforementioned ballistic program, A method characterized by including the following. [Embodiment 17] The method according to Embodiment 16, further comprising the step of accessing the wind direction acquisition mode of the observation optical instrument before the step of pointing the observation optical instrument. [Embodiment 18] The method according to embodiment 16, further comprising the step of storing the wind direction on a memory device. [Embodiment 19] The method according to Embodiment 16, further comprising the step of acquiring a distance value by aiming the observation optical instrument at a target and activating the distance measuring system of the observation optical instrument. [Embodiment 20] The process further includes the step of capturing information from one or more sensors of the observation optical instrument, The sensor is selected from the group consisting of an anemometer, a barometric pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, and a temperature sensor. The method according to Embodiment 16, characterized by the features described herein. [Explanation of symbols]

[0140] 1. Menu button 2 Measurement button 3. Wind Capture Button 4, 5 First and second selection buttons 100 Observation Optical Instruments

Claims

1. The main unit including the display, A distance measuring system installed inside the main unit for measuring the distance to the target, A direction sensor mounted inside the main body for determining the direction of the wind and the direction of the target, the direction of the wind is determined by pointing an observation optical instrument in the direction corresponding to the direction from which the wind is coming, and the direction of the target is determined by pointing the observation optical instrument at the target, A first button mounted on the main unit and operatively connected to the distance measuring system, A second button mounted on the main body and operatively connected to the direction sensor, configured to enter and exit the wind direction acquisition mode of the observation optical instrument, and configured such that when the observation optical instrument is in the wind direction acquisition mode, activating the second button causes the direction sensor to acquire the wind direction based on the orientation of the observation optical instrument at the time of activation of the second button, and automatically inputs the acquired wind direction data into the observation optical instrument without requiring manual input of the wind direction by the user. A processor installed inside the main unit and capable of controlling information to be displayed on the display, An observation optical instrument characterized by including [this].

2. The observation optical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that the processor is configured to communicate with the distance measuring system.

3. The observation optical instrument according to claim 2, characterized in that the processor is configured to communicate with the direction sensor.

4. The observation optical instrument according to claim 3, characterized in that the processor has a ballistic computer program that determines a ballistic trajectory using the distance from the ranging system and the wind direction from the direction sensor.

5. The system further includes a memory device for storing information from the direction sensor, The memory device is configured to communicate with the direction sensor. The observation optical instrument according to feature 1.

6. The observation optical instrument according to claim 1, further comprising at least one additional sensor selected from the group consisting of an anemometer, a pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, and a temperature sensor, and combinations thereof.

7. The observation optical instrument according to claim 1, further comprising a third button for adjusting the wind speed after the engagement of the direction sensor.

8. The observation optical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a rangefinder binocular.

9. The observation optical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a rangefinder monocular.

10. A method for calculating ballistic trajectories, The process involves activating a second button mounted on the main body of the observation optical instrument and operatively connected to a direction sensor to access the wind direction acquisition mode of the observation optical instrument, The steps include orienting an observation optical instrument, which comprises a main unit, a distance measuring system, a direction sensor mounted inside the main unit, a processor configured to communicate with the direction sensor and having a ballistic program, and a first button mounted on the main unit and operatively connected to the distance measuring system, in a direction corresponding to the direction from which the wind is coming; The process involves capturing the wind direction by activating the second button while the observation optical instrument is pointed in a direction corresponding to the direction from which the wind is coming, wherein the activation of the second button causes the direction sensor to capture the wind direction based on the orientation of the observation optical instrument at the time of activation, and automatically inputs the wind direction to the observation optical instrument without requiring manual input of the wind direction by the user. The steps include: communicating the wind direction to the processor using the direction sensor; The steps include determining the ballistic trajectory using the aforementioned ballistic program, A method characterized by including the following.

11. The method according to 10, further comprising the step of accessing the wind direction acquisition mode of the observation optical instrument before the step of pointing the observation optical instrument.

12. The method according to 10, further comprising the step of storing the wind direction on a memory device.

13. The method according to 10, further comprising the step of acquiring a distance value by aiming the observation optical instrument at a target and activating the distance measuring system of the observation optical instrument.

14. The process further includes the step of capturing information from one or more sensors of the observation optical instrument, The sensor is selected from the group consisting of an anemometer, a barometric pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, and a temperature sensor. The method according to the present invention, characterized by the present invention.

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