Ballistics Calculator Hub

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for providing ballistic solutions. In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus that stores one or more ballistic calculators that provide ballistic solutions. In one embodiment, the apparatus is in communication with one or more laser range finders.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a device that provides ballistic solutions. In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a device that stores one or more ballistic computers for providing ballistic solutions. In one embodiment, the device communicates with one or more devices including, but not limited to, binoculars, monoculars, spotting scopes (spotting sights), and laser rangefinders.

[0002] 〔Reference to Related Applications〕 This application is a claim for priority of, and a non-provisional application of, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 906,235, filed on September 26, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and made a part hereof.

Background Art

[0003] In competitive shooting and Western hunting, ballistic calculation / correction is based on the range of the target, environmental conditions, rifle profile, and bullet profile, and such ballistic calculation / correction is essential for accurate long-distance shooting. The user prefers to be able to utilize range and ballistic correction in a real-time manner and in a way that does not require the user to take out an observation optical device, such as a rifle scope, and look away from the target.

[0004] Traditional methods for providing range and ballistic correction information in the field require either a mobile ballistic application or a manually printed range card (dope card). However, these traditional methods are impractical in the field. Using a mobile application requires a working mobile connection, and cellular signals may not be available in remote locations. If a network connection is not established, this renders Bluetooth-connected rangefinders or sights unusable for ballistic correction data. When used as a standalone mobile application, the shooter still needs to move away from the scope to obtain the ballistic solution. Manually printed range cards may be attached to the rifle for easy access to range and ballistic correction information. However, these conditions represent a snapshot in time and therefore may become useless if environmental conditions change. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] Thus, there remains a need for equipment, systems, and methods that provide users with ballistic solutions in an accurate, timely, and efficient manner. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a device that provides a ballistic solution. In one embodiment, the ballistic solution device communicates with one or more additional external devices. In one embodiment, the ballistic solution device communicates with one or more rangefinders. In yet another embodiment, the device communicates with one or more observation optics instruments. In one embodiment, the device communicates with one of the following: a weather tracking device (weather tracker), a navigation device, a personal wearable device, a smart device, or a ballistic solver. In one embodiment, the device communicates via a platform independent of the Internet or cellular connectivity.

[0007] In one embodiment, the device is a ballistic computer hub that provides a ballistic solution and communicates with one or more devices including (but not limited to) mobile devices, mobile computers, desktop computers, iPads, weather tracker devices, navigation devices, wearable devices, display devices, and ballistic solvers. In one embodiment, the ballistic computer hub further communicates with one or more mobile devices equipped with mobile applications. In one embodiment, the ballistic computer hub further communicates with one or more laser rangefinders. In yet another embodiment, the ballistic computer hub further communicates with one or more observation optical instruments. In one embodiment, the ballistic computer hub does not use the internet or cellular communication methods to communicate with one or more external devices. In one embodiment, the ballistic computer hub communicates with one or more external devices when internet or cellular connectivity is not available.

[0008] In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a system including a mobile device that has a mobile application including a ballistic solver and is configured to transmit the ballistic solver to a ballistic hub, the ballistic hub being configured to operate with the ballistic solver stored and to receive range from a rangefinder, and the ballistic hub calculating a ballistic solution using the ballistic solver when there is no internet or cellular connectivity. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub communicates via a platform independent of the internet and cellular connectivity.

[0009] In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a system including a mobile device that has a mobile application including a ballistic solver and is configured to transmit the ballistic solver to a ballistic hub, wherein the ballistic hub is configured to operate with the ballistic solver stored and to receive range from a rangefinder, the ballistic hub is not a component of the rangefinder, the ballistic hub communicates with the rangefinder without using the internet or cellular connectivity, and the ballistic hub calculates a ballistic solution using the ballistic solver when the internet or cellular connectivity is not available.

[0010] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a device comprising a ballistic hub configured to receive range from a laser rangefinder and calculate a ballistic solution, wherein the ballistic hub is housed within a fob.

[0011] In one embodiment, the fob is compact in size, having a height of 3 inches (7.62 cm) or less, a width of 3 inches (7.62 cm) or less, and a depth of 1 inch (2.54 cm) or less.

[0012] In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a fob having a ballistic hub configured to receive range from a rangefinder and including a ballistic solver for calculating a ballistic solution, wherein the fob has a height of 3 inches (7.62 cm) or less, a width of 3 inches (7.62 cm) or less, and a depth of 1 inch (2.54 cm) or less.

[0013] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is not a component of a rangefinder. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is not a component of an observation optical instrument. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is not a mobile application. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is not a component of a weather tracker device.

[0014] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is not integrated into the rangefinder. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is not integrated into the observation optical instrument. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is not integrated into the mobile application of the mobile device. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is not integrated into the weather tracker device.

[0015] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is separate from and a distinct device from the rangefinder. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is separate from and a distinct device from the observation optical instrument. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is separate from and a distinct device from the weather tracker device.

[0016] In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a system including a rangefinder and a ballistic hub that provides a ballistic solution. The rangefinder sends information including (but not limited to) range, profile, wind, etc. to the ballistic hub and / or mobile phone. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub or mobile phone provides additional data including (but not limited to) temperature, pressure, etc., to calculate a ballistic solution based on the rangefinder data provided. The ballistic solution is sent back to the rangefinder and can be viewed on the rangefinder display together with the rangefinder data.

[0017] In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a system including a mobile device equipped with a ballistic hub and a mobile application. In one embodiment, the mobile application is a primary mode for data entry, user setup, and device management, and such mobile application includes device pairing, selection of device settings, firearm settings, bullet settings, drag model selection, selection and management of user profiles (saved rifle, bullet, and drag model profiles), viewing of device environmental sensors and wind direction finding devices, compass calibration, single and multiple ballistic displays, selection and management of range card profiles, and functionality of target parameters.

[0018] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub has the functionality of a ballistic solver, temperature, pressure, humidity, user profile, and range card profile.

[0019] In one embodiment, the mobile device has the functionality of a ballistic solver, temperature, pressure, humidity, user profile, and range card profile. In one embodiment, the mobile application has the functionality of a ballistic solver, temperature, pressure, humidity, user profile, and range card profile.

[0020] In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a system and method that enables a user to obtain range and ballistic correction information in the field and transmit this information via a network (including a wireless network, such as Bluetooth) to external devices including any connected rangefinder, sight, weather tracker, navigation device, and ballistic solver (but not limited to these), or to personal electronic devices including a watch and a small HUD display (but not limited to these). Low-energy Bluetooth connectivity requires only power from a small onboard long-life battery and is therefore not dependent on external cellular connections, cables, or external power.

[0021] One advantage of the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein is that users can use mobile devices equipped with mobile applications to select the optimal ballistic solver to be used across all devices, thereby reducing development and licensing costs. Traditionally, ballistic solvers are incorporated into firearm accessories, such as rangefinders and sights. The selection of ballistic solvers used in these devices is anticipated through supplier / factory relationships and alliances with ballistic solver manufacturers.

[0022] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is compact and easily attachable to any Bluetooth-connected firearm equipment, including (but not limited to) keychains, firearms, or sights, rangefinders, external devices, and personal device display devices. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is provided with a waterproof, shockproof protective case or cover so that it can withstand harsh environmental conditions. Firearm profiles and bullet profiles are preferably pre-loaded into the ballistic hub by communication with a mobile device running a mobile application.

[0023] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub functions as a standalone ballistic computer without requiring connection to an external mobile device / mobile application. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub has an integrated environmental sensor that enables the device to capture information including (but not limited to) environmental information, temperature, pressure, and humidity. The ballistic hub requires only a Bluetooth connection to firearm accessories (sights, rangefinders) and personal display devices, such as external industry-standard environmental instruments including smartwatches, smartphones, smart wrist devices, and, if desired, weather trackers and navigation devices (but not limited to) to receive the information necessary to calculate the ballistic solution. In this case, it is preferable to send the ballistic solution back to any connected firearm accessory along with the ranging information.

[0024] In one embodiment, it is preferable to then display the range and ballistic corrections on the observation optics eyepiece and rangefinder display. The user receives accurate real-time range and ballistic correction information without taking their eyes off the target or moving away from the sights.

[0025] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method including: selecting a first ballistic solver using a first mobile application installed on a mobile device; transmitting the selected first ballistic solver from the mobile device to a ballistic hub; deleting the selected first ballistic solver from the ballistic hub using the mobile device; selecting a second ballistic solver using a first or second mobile application installed on the mobile device; and transmitting the selected second ballistic solver from the mobile device to the ballistic hub.

[0026] In one embodiment, the method further includes transmitting a range from a rangefinder to the ballistic hub, and the ballistic hub calculates a ballistic solution using the range.

[0027] In another embodiment, the method further includes calculating a ballistic solution using the ballistic hub. In another embodiment, the method further includes calculating a ballistic solution using the ballistic hub based on a range from a rangefinder.

[0028] In one embodiment, the method further includes transmitting the ballistic solution from the ballistic hub to a rangefinder and / or an observation optical instrument and / or a weather tracker device and / or a navigation device and / or an external device and / or the mobile device.

[0029] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method including: transmitting a range from a rangefinder to a ballistic hub; calculating a ballistic solution using a ballistic solver of the ballistic hub; and transmitting the ballistic solution to a rangefinder and / or an observation optical instrument and / or a weather tracker device and / or a navigation device and / or an external device and / or the mobile device.

[0030] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub and rangefinder communicate with each other via a platform independent of the internet or cellular connectivity. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is housed or contained within a fob.

[0031] In another embodiment, the method further includes the step of transmitting environmental conditions or parameters from an external device to a ballistic hub.

[0032] In another embodiment, the method further includes the step of transmitting geographical conditions or coordinates from the navigation unit to the ballistic hub. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0033] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating a typical system disclosed herein, showing a ballistic hub in contact with one or more additional devices. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram of a typical system disclosed herein, showing a ranging system used to determine distance, a ballistic hub with a user-selectable ballistic solver to provide a ballistic solution, and options for displaying the ballistic solution. [Figure 3A] This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to communicate with a ballistic hub having a ballistic solver selected by the user. [Figure 3B] This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to communicate with a mobile device equipped with a mobile application, including a ballistic solver. [Figure 3C] This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to communicate with a ballistic hub having a ballistic solver selected by the user, and shows the laser rangefinder configured to communicate with a mobile device running one or more mobile applications. [Figure 4A]This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to receive information from a ballistic hub having a ballistic solver selected by the user, and the diagram shows the ballistic hub configured to calculate a ballistic solution and transmit this solution to the laser rangefinder. [Figure 4B] This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to receive information from a mobile device equipped with a mobile application that has a ballistic solver. The diagram shows the configuration in which the mobile application calculates a ballistic solution and transmits this solution to the laser rangefinder. [Figure 4C] This is a typical diagram of a mobile device configured to transmit information to a ballistic hub, where the ballistic hub is configured to transmit the ballistic solution to a laser rangefinder, and the ballistic solution can be calculated using the ballistic hub and / or the mobile device. [Figure 5A] This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to communicate with a ballistic hub having a ballistic solver selected by the user, where the ballistic hub calculates the ballistic solution and transmits this solution to an observation optical instrument and / or remote device for display. [Figure 5B] This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to communicate with a mobile device equipped with a mobile application including a ballistic solver, where the mobile application calculates the ballistic solution and transmits this solution to an observation optical instrument and / or remote device for display. [Figure 5C] This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to communicate with a ballistic hub having a ballistic solver selected by the user, and this laser rangefinder is configured to communicate with a mobile device running one or more mobile applications, so that the mobile device transmits the ballistic solution to an observation optical instrument and / or external device for display. [Figure 6A] This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to communicate with a ballistic hub having a ballistic solver selected by the user, and shows the ballistic hub configured to communicate with a weather tracker device including (but not limited to) a Kestrel as shown in the diagram. [Figure 6B] This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to communicate with a mobile device equipped with a mobile application including a ballistic solver, and shows the mobile application configured to communicate with a weather tracker device including (but not limited to) a kestral as shown in the diagram. [Figure 6C] This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to communicate with a ballistic hub having a user-selected ballistic solver, and the laser rangefinder is configured to communicate with a mobile device running one or more mobile applications, and the mobile device is configured to communicate with a weather tracker device including (but not limited to) a Kestrel as shown in the diagram. [Figure 7A] This is a typical diagram of a weather tracker device, such as a Kestrel, configured to communicate with a ballistic hub having a ballistic solver selected by the user to calculate a ballistic solution, and the diagram shows the ballistic hub configured to transmit the ballistic solution to a laser rangefinder. [Figure 7B] This is a typical diagram of a weather tracker device, such as a Kestrel, configured to communicate with a mobile device having a ballistic solver to calculate a ballistic solution, and the diagram shows the mobile device configured to transmit the ballistic solution to a laser rangefinder. [Figure 7C] This is a typical diagram of a weather tracker device, such as a Kestrel, configured to communicate with a mobile device, where the mobile device is configured to communicate with a ballistic hub, and the mobile device and / or the ballistic hub are configured to calculate a ballistic solution, which is then transmitted to a laser rangefinder. [Figure 8A] This is a typical diagram of a weather tracker device, such as WeatherFlow, configured to communicate with a ballistic hub that has a ballistic solver selected by the user to calculate a ballistic solution, and the diagram shows the ballistic hub configured to transmit the ballistic solution to a laser rangefinder. [Figure 8B] This is a typical diagram of a weather tracker device, such as Weatherflow, configured to communicate with a mobile device having a ballistic solver to calculate a ballistic solution, and showing the mobile device configured to transmit the ballistic solution to a laser rangefinder. [Figure 8C] This is a typical diagram of a weather tracker device configured to communicate with a mobile device, such as Weatherflow, where the mobile device is configured to communicate with a ballistic hub, and the mobile device and / or ballistic hub are configured to calculate a ballistic solution, which is then transmitted to a laser rangefinder. [Figure 9A] This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to communicate with a ballistic hub having a user-selected ballistic solver, and shows the ballistic hub configured to communicate with a navigation system, including (but not limited to) Garmin. [Figure 9B] This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to communicate with a mobile device equipped with a mobile application including a ballistic solver, and shows the mobile application communicating with a navigation system, including (but not limited to) Garmin. [Figure 9C] This is a typical diagram of a laser rangefinder configured to communicate with a ballistic hub having a user-selected ballistic solver, and this laser rangefinder is configured to communicate with a mobile device running one or more mobile applications, and the diagram shows the mobile device communicating with a navigation system, including (but not limited to) Garmin. [Figure 10] This is a typical diagram of an external device communication system, where a ballistic hub is configured to communicate with numerous devices that receive, process, and transmit information, and it is shown that the ballistic hub is ideally configured to communicate with mobile devices, weather tracker devices, and navigation devices. [Figure 11] This is a typical diagram of a ballistic hub configured to communicate with a mobile device equipped with a mobile application, a laser rangefinder, an observation optical instrument, and one or more external devices, illustrating how information is transmitted between the laser rangefinder, the observation optical instrument, and one or more external devices via the ballistic hub and / or the mobile device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0034] The apparatus and methods disclosed herein will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings illustrating embodiments of the disclosure of the present invention. However, the apparatus and methods disclosed herein can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments shown herein. Rather than being limited, these embodiments are provided to make the disclosure of the present invention complete and to fully convey the scope of the disclosure of the present invention to those skilled in the art.

[0035] In this specification, when the terms “one embodiment,” “(any one of several) embodiment” (which may also be referred to as “one embodiment” in this specification), or “various embodiments” are used, these mean that one or more features being referenced are included in at least one embodiment of the Art. Where “one embodiment,” “embodiment,” or “various embodiments” are used separately in this specification, these do not necessarily mean the same embodiment, and are not mutually exclusive unless otherwise specified and / or are readily apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, features, structures, actions etc. described in one embodiment may, but not necessarily, be included in other embodiments. Thus, the Art may include various combinations and / or integrations of the embodiments described herein.

[0036] When an element or layer is described as being "on top of" another element or layer and "connected to" or "joined" by it, it should be understood that the element or layer may be directly on top of the other element or layer and directly connected to or joined by it. In variations, there may be an intervening element or layer. In contrast, when an element is described as being "directly on top of" another element or layer and "directly connected to" or "directly joined" by it, there is no intervening element or layer.

[0037] Throughout this specification, similar numbers refer to similar elements. Where used herein, the term “and / or” includes any combination of one, two or more, or all of the related listed items.

[0038] In this specification, we use terms such as "first," "second," etc., to describe various elements, components, areas, and / or divisions, but it will be understood that these elements, components, areas, and / or divisions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one element, component, area, or division from another element, component, area, or division. Accordingly, without departing from the disclosure of the present invention, the first element, component, area, or division described below may be expressed as the second element, component, area, or division.

[0039] In this specification, for ease of description, terms expressing spatial relativity such as “below,” “downward,” “below,” “upward,” and “above” may be used to describe the relationship between one element or feature shown in a figure and another element or feature. It will be acknowledged that these terms expressing spatial relativity are intended to encompass various orientations of the device in use or orientations other than those depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is inverted, an element described as being “below” or “downward” of another element or feature would be oriented “upward” of those other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “downward” can encompass both upward and downward orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (90° rotation or other orientations), and the spatial relativity descriptors used herein can be interpreted accordingly.

[0040] All patents, patent applications, and non-patent documents are cited by reference and their entire contents are incorporated herein by reference.

[0041] The numerical ranges in the disclosure of this invention are approximations and therefore may include values ​​outside the range unless otherwise indicated. The numerical ranges include all values ​​from the lower limit to the upper limit in increments of one unit, assuming that there is a separation width of at least two units between any lower limit and any upper limit. For example, if a compositional property such as molecular weight, viscosity, physical property, or other property is from 100 to 1,000, it is intended to explicitly enumerate all individual values ​​such as 100, 101, 102, and partial ranges such as 100 to 144, 155 to 170, and 197 to 200. In ranges containing values ​​less than 1 or fractions greater than 1 (e.g., 1.1, 1.5), one unit is considered to be correspondingly 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, or 0.1. In ranges containing single-digit numbers less than 10 (e.g., 1 to 5), one unit is generally considered to be 0.1. These are merely examples of what is specifically intended, and it should be understood that all possible combinations of numerical values ​​between the minimum and maximum values ​​listed will be specified in the disclosure of the present invention. Within the scope of the disclosure of the present invention, in particular, numerical ranges relating to the distance from the user of the device to the target are provided.

[0042] In this specification, the term "and / or" as used in relation to expressions such as "A and / or B" is intended to include both A and B, A or B, A (only), and B (only). Similarly, the term "and / or" as used in relation to expressions such as "A, B, and / or C" is intended to include A and B and C, A or B or C, A or C, A or B, B or C, A and C, A and B, B and C, A (only), B (only), and C (only).

[0043] The English words “comprising” (often translated as “having” in texts), “including” (“including”), “having” (“equipped with”), and their derivatives do not preclude the existence of any additional components, steps, or procedures, whether or not such additional components, steps, or procedures are specifically disclosed. To avoid any doubt, all components claimed by the use of “comprising” may include any additional additives, auxiliaries, or compounds, whether polymerizable or not, unless otherwise specified. In contrast, “consisting essentially of” excludes any other components, steps, or procedures from any subsequent repetition, except for components, steps, or procedures that are not essential to the functionality. The term “consisting of” excludes any components, steps, or procedures that are not specifically described or listed. The term "or" ("or"), unless otherwise specified, refers to the listed components individually and in any combination. A singular use includes a plural use, and vice versa.

[0044] As used herein, a ballistic hub is a common connection point for one or more devices in a network, where the devices in the network provide information used to calculate or communicate ballistic solutions. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is a device capable of housing one or more ballistic computers to provide ballistic solutions. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub communicates with one or more rangefinders. In another embodiment, the ballistic hub communicates with one or more observation optics. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub has one or more environmental sensors. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is configured to communicate with one or more mobile devices running one or more mobile applications. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is configured to communicate with one or more external devices, including, but not limited to, weather tracker devices, navigation devices, smart devices, wearable devices, and ballistic solvers.

[0045] As used herein, Bluetooth is an open wireless technology standard for transmitting data between stationary and mobile electronic devices over short distances. Bluetooth was introduced in 1994 as a wireless alternative to RS-232 cables. The range of Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology is approximately 110 yards (100.6 m).

[0046] As used herein, “firearm” refers to a portable firearm that fires one or more projectiles propelled, often by the action of an explosive force. As used herein, the term “firearm” includes pistols, rifles, shotguns, carbines, automatic weapons, semi-automatic weapons, machine guns, light machine guns, automatic rifles, and assault rifles.

[0047] As used herein, "fob" refers to a small wireless device capable of housing a ballistic hub. In one embodiment, the fob is airtight and watertight. The terms "ballistic fob" and "fob" are used interchangeably.

[0048] As used herein, “target” refers to a person, animal, or place selected as the target of a projectile. Non-limiting examples of suitable animal targets include game animals, such as deer, ducks, turkeys, and pheasants.

[0049] As used herein, the term “Observation Optical Instrument” refers to a device used by a shooter or observer to select, identify, or monitor a target. “Observation Optical Instrument” may rely on visual observation of the target, or on other images of the target, such as infrared (IR) imaging, ultraviolet (UV) imaging, radar imaging, thermal imaging, microwave imaging, or magnetic imaging, radiation sensors including X-rays, gamma rays, isotope radiation, and particle radiation, night vision, ultrasound, sound pulses, sonar, vibration sensors including seismic vibrations and magnetic resonance, gravity sensors, broadcast frequency sensors including radio waves, television sensors and cellular sensors. The image of the target presented to the shooter by the “Observation Optical Instrument” device may be unmodified or improved by means of, for example, magnification, amplification, subtraction, duplication, filtering, stabilization, template matching, or other means. Targets selected, identified, or monitored by the “Observation Optical Instrument” may be within the shooter’s line of sight or outside the shooter’s field of view, or the shooter’s line of sight may be obstructed while the target acquisition device presents the focused target image to the shooter. Target images obtained by the “Observation Optical Instrument” may be analog or digital and may be shared, stored, saved, or transmitted within a network of one or more shooters and observers using, for example, video, physical cables or wires, IR, radio waves, cellular connections, laser pulses, light, 802.11b, or other wireless transmission protocols such as HTML, SML, SOAP, X.25, SNA, Bluetooth®, serial, USB, or other suitable image dispersion methods. The term “Observation Optical Instrument” is used interchangeably with “Optical Sight.”

[0050] As used herein, the term “shooter” applies to either the operator performing the firing or the individual observing the firing in cooperation with the operator performing the firing.

[0051] The weather tracker device used herein is any instrument used to measure one or more environmental conditions. In one embodiment, the weather tracker device may measure or detect altitude (barometric pressure), atmospheric pressure, compass direction, crosswind, density altitude, dew point temperature, headwind / tailwind, thermal stress index, relative humidity, local barometric pressure (absolute pressure), temperature, wet-bulb temperature (humidity diagram), wind speed cooling, and wind speed / airflow velocity.

[0052] In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a device, or “ballistic hub,” that stores one or more ballistic computers and provides ballistic solutions. In one embodiment, the ballistic computers are selected by a user. In one embodiment, a mobile device is used to select a ballistic solver and communicate it to the ballistic hub.

[0053] In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a system including a mobile device configured to carry a mobile application including a ballistic solver and to communicate with a ballistic hub, and a ballistic hub configured to compute ballistic solutions. In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a system including a mobile device configured to carry a mobile application including a ballistic solver and to communicate the ballistic solver to the ballistic hub. The mobile device is used to select a ballistic solver, and the mobile device communicates the selected ballistic solver to the ballistic hub. The ballistic hub now has a number of ballistic solvers selected by the user to be used for any number of firearms and firearm accessories.

[0054] In one embodiment, the ballistic solvers stored within the ballistic hub can be changed by accessing a mobile device and selecting a new ballistic solver. The ballistic hub allows the user to select from various ballistic solvers based on a specific environment.

[0055] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is preferably housed in a device that can be easily attached to a keychain, firearm, or any connected firearm equipment (sights, rangefinders, personal equipment, observation optics) and is waterproof and shockproof, allowing it to withstand harsh environmental conditions. Since firearm profiles and bullet profiles can be preloaded and stored in the ballistic hub, it functions as a standalone ballistic computer without the need to connect to an external mobile application.

[0056] In one embodiment, the fob can store and house a ballistic hub. The fob can be easily attached to a keychain, firearm, or any connected firearm equipment (sights, rangefinders, personal equipment, observation optics) and can withstand harsh environmental conditions due to its waterproof and shockproof case. Since firearm profiles and bullet profiles can be pre-loaded and stored in the ballistic hub, the ballistic hub can function as a standalone ballistic computer without the need to connect to an external mobile application.

[0057] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub communicates with one or more devices via a wireless network, including (but not limited to) a Bluetooth network. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub does not use the internet to communicate with one or more external devices. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub does not use cellular connectivity to communicate with one or more external devices.

[0058] In another embodiment, the ballistic hub may have one or more integrated environmental sensors that enable the device to capture information including (but not limited to) temperature, pressure, and humidity.

[0059] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub may be connected via a wireless network including (but not limited to) Bluetooth to firearm accessories (sights, rangefinders, personal devices, observation optics) and, if desired, to external industry-standard environmental instruments or devices for receiving information necessary to calculate the ballistic solution. In this case, the ballistic solution may be sent along with the ranging information to the Bluetooth-connected firearm accessory.

[0060] In one embodiment, the range and ballistic corrections are then preferably displayed on the observation optics eyepiece and rangefinder display. The user receives accurate real-time range and ballistic correction information without taking their eyes off the target or moving away from the observation optics.

[0061] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is a standalone device that provides the user with the ability to select the optimal ballistic solver for their needs. The user can load one or more ballistic solvers into the device as required. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub, as a standalone device, is not subject to the hardware and memory constraints that would exist if it were integrated into a firearm accessory device. This avoids memory or hardware constraints when uploading different ballistic solutions, as memory and hardware constraints vary considerably in terms of memory and processing requirements.

[0062] In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a ballistic hub and / or mobile device equipped with a mobile application that works in conjunction with a firearm accessory, including (but not limited to) a mountable rangefinder for calculating a ballistic solution and returning such ballistic solution to the user. In one embodiment, a single mobile application provides intuitive streamlining and device setup and data entry. The ballistic hub can be used even when the mobile application is unavailable or when it is not possible to establish or maintain an internet or cellular connection.

[0063] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a fob housing a ballistic hub that works in conjunction with a firearm accessory including (but not limited to) a mountable rangefinder for calculating a ballistic solution and returning such ballistic solution to the user.

[0064] In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a system comprising a mobile device equipped with a mobile application, a ballistic hub, and a laser rangefinder. In another embodiment, the system further includes an observation optical instrument. In yet another embodiment, the system further includes a weather tracker device. In yet another embodiment, the system further includes a navigation device. In yet another embodiment, the system further includes a device equipped with a ballistic solver. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is housed within a fob.

[0065] Figure 1 is an illustrative diagram of the ballistic hub described herein. The ballistic hub is configured to communicate with one or more mobile devices running one or more mobile applications. The ballistic hub can communicate with any number of mobile devices, such as one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, and eleven or more mobile devices.

[0066] In one embodiment, a mobile device communicates a ballistic solver to a ballistic hub. The mobile device can be used to load or unload ballistic solvers based on user preferences.

[0067] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is configured to communicate with sports optics, including, but not limited to, sports optics manufactured by Vortex Optics, such sports optics include binoculars, monoculars, spotting scopes, and rifle scopes. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub can communicate with any number of sports optics, including one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, and eleven or more sports optics devices.

[0068] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is also configured to communicate with weather tracker devices, including (but not limited to) Kestrel and Weatherflow. The ballistic hub is also configured to communicate with ballistic solvers and rangefinders. The ballistic hub is configured to send and receive information to any number of devices, such any number of devices including 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 or more devices.

[0069] Figure 2 is an illustrative diagram of one non-limiting use of the ballistic hub described herein. The range is determined from a laser rangefinder coupled to the firearm 5. The range is transmitted to the ballistic hub 20, which has a ballistic solver selected by the user. A mobile application installed on a mobile device 30 is configured to transmit the ballistic solver to the ballistic hub 20. The ballistic hub computer-calculates a ballistic solution using the ballistic solver selected by the user. The ballistic solution is then transmitted to and / or displayed on one or more devices. As shown in Figure 2, the ballistic solution is often displayed on an observation optics instrument 22, a laser rangefinder 24, and / or a digital range card 26, the range card 26 can be displayed on a wearable device or a DOPE card.

[0070] Figure 3A is an explanatory diagram of a laser rangefinder 10 configured to communicate with a ballistic hub 20. Figure 3B is an explanatory diagram of a laser rangefinder 10 configured to communicate with a mobile device 30. Figure 3C is an explanatory diagram of a laser rangefinder 10 configured to communicate with a ballistic hub 20, and the ballistic hub 20 is configured to communicate with a mobile device 30. The rangefinder 10 is configured to transmit information to the ballistic hub 20, which may include, but is not limited to, range, user profile, range profile, settings, tilt angle, wind speed, wind direction, and target bearing.

[0071] Figure 4A is an explanatory diagram of a ballistic hub 20 configured to communicate with the laser rangefinder 10. Figure 4B is an explanatory diagram of a mobile device 30 configured to communicate with the laser rangefinder 10. Figure 4C is an explanatory diagram of a mobile device 30 configured to communicate with the ballistic hub 20, which is configured to communicate with the laser rangefinder 10. The ballistic hub 20 and / or the mobile device 30 are configured to transmit information to the laser rangefinder 10, including, but not limited to, ballistic solution, temperature, wind speed, wind direction, user settings, profile, pressure, and humidity.

[0072] Figure 5A is an explanatory diagram of a laser rangefinder 10 in communication with a ballistic hub 20, which is configured to communicate with one or more observation optics 40 and / or remote devices 50. The rangefinder 10 is configured to transmit information to the ballistic hub 20, including, but not limited to, range, user profile, range profile, settings, tilt angle, wind speed, wind direction, and target bearing. The ballistic hub 20 is configured to transmit information to the observation optics 40 and / or remote devices 50, including, but not limited to, ballistic solution, temperature, pressure, and humidity.

[0073] Figure 5B is an explanatory diagram of a laser rangefinder 10 in communication with a mobile device 30, including (but not limited to) a mobile phone. The rangefinder 10 is configured to transmit information to the mobile device 30, including, but not limited to, range, user profile, range profile, settings, tilt angle, wind speed, wind direction, and target bearing. The mobile device 30 is configured to transmit information including (but not limited to) ballistic solution, temperature, pressure, and humidity to the observation optics 40 and / or remote equipment 50.

[0074] Figure 5C is an explanatory diagram of a mobile device 30, a ballistic hub 20 in communication with the mobile device 30, and a laser rangefinder 10 in communication with the ballistic hub 20. The rangefinder 10 is configured to transmit information to the ballistic hub 20, including, but not limited to, range, user profile, range profile, settings, tilt angle, wind speed, wind direction, and target bearing. The ballistic hub 20 is configured to transmit information to the mobile device 30, including, but not limited to, ballistic solution, temperature, pressure, and humidity. The mobile device 30 is configured to communicate with an observation optical instrument 40 and / or associated accessories 50.

[0075] Figure 6A is an explanatory diagram of a laser rangefinder 10 configured to communicate with a ballistic hub 20, which is configured to communicate with a wind and weather tracker 60, such as a Kestrel. Figure 6B is an explanatory diagram of a laser rangefinder 10 configured to communicate with a mobile device 30, which is configured to communicate with a wind and weather tracker 60, such as a Kestrel. Figure 6C is an explanatory diagram of a laser rangefinder 10 configured to communicate with a ballistic hub 20, which is configured to communicate with a mobile device 30, which is configured to communicate with a wind and weather tracker 60, such as a Kestrel.

[0076] In Figures 6A to 6C, the laser rangefinder 10 is configured to transmit information including range, tilt angle, target bearing, user profile, range profile settings, wind speed, and wind direction (but not limited to these) to the ballistic hub 20 and / or mobile device 30. The ballistic hub 20 and / or mobile device 30 is configured to transmit information including range, tilt angle, and target bearing (but not limited to these) to the wind and weather tracker device 60. The data may originate from the laser rangefinder 10. The data may originate from the ballistic hub 20 and / or mobile device 30. In one embodiment, all the data originates from the laser rangefinder 10. In yet another embodiment, all the data originates from the ballistic hub 20 and / or mobile device 30.

[0077] Figure 7A is an explanatory diagram of a wind and weather tracker 60, such as Kestrel, configured to communicate with a ballistic hub 20, the ballistic hub 20 being configured to communicate with a laser rangefinder 10. Figure 7B is an explanatory diagram of a wind and weather tracker 60, such as Kestrel, configured to communicate with a mobile device 30, the mobile device 30 being configured to communicate with a laser rangefinder 10. Figure 7C is an explanatory diagram of a wind and weather tracker 60, such as Kestrel, configured to communicate with a mobile device 30, the mobile device 30 being configured to communicate with a ballistic hub 20, the ballistic hub 20 being configured to communicate with a laser rangefinder 10.

[0078] In Figures 7A to 7C, the wind and weather tracker device 60 is configured to transmit information including temperature, pressure, humidity, wind speed, and wind direction (but not limited to these) to the ballistic hub 20 and / or mobile device 30. In one embodiment, the wind and weather tracker device 60 can provide the ballistic solution to the ballistic hub 20 and / or mobile device 30 if the weather tracker device is in a communication relationship with a separate device configured to calculate the ballistic solution.

[0079] The ballistic hub 20 and / or mobile device 30 are configured to transmit information to the laser rangefinder 10, which may include, but is not limited to, ballistic solutions, ballistic profiles, range card profiles, settings, temperature, pressure, humidity, wind speed, and wind direction.

[0080] In Figure 7C, the ballistic solution can be calculated by the mobile device 30 and transmitted to the ballistic hub 20, which is configured to communicate with the laser rangefinder 10. In another embodiment, the ballistic hub 20 can calculate the ballistic solution and communicate with the laser rangefinder 10. In yet another embodiment, both the mobile device 30 and the ballistic hub 20 can calculate the ballistic solution. In one embodiment, the mobile device 30 and the ballistic hub 20 employ the same ballistic solver. In yet another embodiment, the mobile device 30 and the ballistic hub 20 employ different ballistic solvers.

[0081] In one embodiment, the mobile device 30 transmits the ballistic solution to the ballistic hub 20, and the ballistic hub 20 transmits the ballistic solution to the laser rangefinder 10.

[0082] Figure 8A is an explanatory diagram of a weather tracker device, shown as a WeatherFlow device 70 configured to communicate with a ballistic hub 20, which is configured to communicate with a laser rangefinder 10. Figure 8B is an explanatory diagram of a weather tracker device, shown as a WeatherFlow device 70 configured to communicate with a mobile device 30, which is configured to communicate with a laser rangefinder 10. Figure 8C is an explanatory diagram of a weather tracker device, shown as a WeatherFlow device 70 configured to communicate with a mobile device 30, which is configured to communicate with a ballistic hub 20, which is configured to communicate with a laser rangefinder 10.

[0083] In Figures 8A to 8C, the weather tracker device 70 is configured to transmit information, including (but not limited to) wind speed and wind direction, to the ballistic hub 20 and / or mobile device 30. The ballistic hub 20 and / or mobile device 30 is configured to transmit information, including, but not limited to, ballistic solutions, ballistic profiles, range card profiles, settings, temperature, pressure, humidity, wind speed, and wind direction.

[0084] Figure 9A is an explanatory diagram of a laser rangefinder 10 configured to communicate with a ballistic hub 20, which is configured to communicate with a navigation system 80, such as a Garmin Foretrex. Figure 9B is an explanatory diagram of a laser rangefinder 10 configured to communicate with a mobile device 30, which is configured to communicate with a navigation system 80, such as a Garmin Foretrex. Figure 9C is an explanatory diagram of a laser rangefinder 10 configured to communicate with a ballistic hub 20, which is configured to communicate with a mobile device 30, which is configured to communicate with a navigation system 80, such as a Garmin Foretrex.

[0085] In Figures 9A to 9C, the laser rangefinder 10 is configured to transmit information to the ballistic hub 20 and / or mobile device 30, including, but not limited to, range, tilt angle, target bearing, user profile, ballistic profile, range profile settings, wind speed, and wind direction. The ballistic hub 20 provides additional data, including, but not limited to, ballistic solution, temperature, pressure, and humidity. The ballistic hub 20 is configured to transmit information to the navigation system 80, including, but not limited to, range from the laser rangefinder, tilt angle from the laser rangefinder, target bearing from the laser rangefinder, and range profile.

[0086] Figure 10 is a non-exclusive diagram of a ballistic hub 20 configured to communicate with one or more external devices. The ballistic hub can communicate with any number of devices, including, but not limited to, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, and eleven or more devices. A mobile device 30 is used to manage and select the configuration items of one or more external devices. The mobile device 30 and the ballistic hub 20 are used to manage the connection status between external devices and to authorize communication between one or more devices. The ballistic hub 20 is a central communication point with one or more devices when the mobile device 30 is not present or cannot establish a connection to one or more external devices.

[0087] As shown in Figure 10, the connected network can be implemented using the ballistic hub 20 described herein. The ballistic hub 20 is configured to communicate with a mobile device 30, a weather tracking device indicated as Kestrel 60, a second weather tracking device indicated as Weatherflow 70, and a navigation device indicated as Garmin 80. The ballistic hub 20 can receive information from the first device, process the received information, and communicate with the second device.

[0088] As a non-exclusive example, Weatherflow 70 is configured to provide information to the Ballistic Hub 20. The Ballistic Hub 20 processes the received Weatherflow information and provides new information to the Kestrel 60. The Kestrel 60 is also configured to transmit information to the Ballistic Hub 20, which receives and processes the Kestrel information. The Ballistic Hub 20 can then transmit the processed Kestrel information to the Garmin 80. Similarly, the Garmin 80 is configured to transmit information to the Ballistic Hub 20.

[0089] The ballistic hub is configured to send and receive information. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub can receive information from a first device, process the received information, and send new information back to the first device.

[0090] In another embodiment, the ballistic hub can receive information from a first device and send the information to a second device. In yet another embodiment, the ballistic hub can receive information from a first device, process the received information, and send the processed information to a second device.

[0091] Figure 11 is a non-definitive diagram of a ballistic hub 20 configured to communicate with an observation optical instrument 40 and a laser rangefinder 10. A mobile device 30 with a mobile application can be used to define the settings and configuration of one or more connected devices. The user can use the mobile device 30 with the mobile application to select a ballistic solver. The mobile device 30 is configured to communicate the ballistic solver to the ballistic hub 20.

[0092] The ballistic hub 20 and mobile devices 30 allow for the management of one or more connected devices, thereby enabling connected devices to communicate with each other. The ballistic hub 20 is the central device when no mobile devices are present, and is configured to manage one or more connected devices based on the last setup or configuration of the device provided by the mobile application of the mobile device.

[0093] As shown in Figure 11, the ballistic hub 20 is configured to receive information from the laser rangefinder 10, such information including (but not limited to) the distance to the target. The ballistic hub 20 can process the distance information received from the laser rangefinder 10 and provide a ballistic solution to the rifle scope 40. The ballistic hub 20 is also configured to receive and process information from the remote display 50, and the remote display 50 is also configured to receive information from the ballistic hub 20.

[0094] Information is transmitted between the laser rangefinder, the observation optics and one or more external devices via a ballistic hub and / or mobile device. In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder and the observation optics do not communicate directly with each other. In contrast, the laser rangefinder is configured to provide information to the ballistic hub and / or mobile device, which then transmits the information to the observation optics. The ballistic hub and / or mobile device can transmit the information when it is received by the ballistic hub and / or mobile device, or it can process this information by the ballistic hub and / or mobile device before transmitting it to the observation optics.

[0095] Mobile devices / ballistic hubs

[0096] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub includes a ballistic solver. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub includes a ballistic solver selected by the user. In one embodiment, a mobile device with a mobile application includes a ballistic solver. In one embodiment, the ballistic hub and / or mobile device include additional functionality such as a ballistic solver, temperature, pressure, humidity, user profile, and range card profile.

[0097] In one embodiment, a mobile application installed on a mobile device is the primary mode of data entry, user setup, and device management, and such mobile application includes device pairing, selection of device settings, firearm settings, bullet settings and library selection, drag model selection, selection and management of user profiles (saved rifle, bullet, and drag model profiles), observation of device environmental sensors and wind direction finding devices, compass calibration, single and multiple ballistic displays, selection and management of range card profiles, and functionality of target parameters.

[0098] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub and / or mobile device use range data and user profiles to computer-calculate a ballistic solution based on readings from onboard environmental sensors in the ballistic hub or external wind meter sensors, or environmental data obtained from the mobile device or weather tracker device.

[0099] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub is housed within the fob. In one embodiment, the fob is compact in size and airtight and watertight. The fob can be easily attached to a chain, keychain, firearm, belt, backpack, shoe, hat, shirt, pants, or any other readily available equipment.

[0100] In one embodiment, a fob equipped with a ballistic hub can be used with a number of firearms and a number of observation optics. The fob provides a convenient way to use a ballistic solver with a number of firearms and a number of observation optics.

[0101] In one embodiment, the fob has a height of 5 inches (12.7 cm) or less. In another embodiment, the fob has a height of 4 inches (10.16 cm) or less. In yet another embodiment, the fob has a height of 3 inches (7.62 cm) or less. In yet another embodiment, the fob has a height of 2 inches (5.08 cm) or less. In yet another embodiment, the fob has a height of 1.5 inches (3.81 cm) or less. In one embodiment, the fob has a height of 1.2 inches (3.05 cm) to 2.2 inches (5.59 cm). In yet another embodiment, the fob has a height of 1.6 inches (4.06 cm) to 3 inches (7.62 cm).

[0102] In one embodiment, the fob has a width of 5 inches (12.7 cm) or less. In one embodiment, the fob has a width of 4 inches (10.16 cm) or less. In one embodiment, the fob has a width of 3 inches (7.62 cm) or less. In one embodiment, the fob has a width of 2 inches (5.08 cm) or less. In one embodiment, the fob has a width of 1.5 inches (3.81 cm) or less. In one embodiment, the fob has a width of 0.8 inches (2.03 cm) to 3.2 inches (8.13 cm). In one embodiment, the fob has a width of 1.2 inches (3.05 cm) to 2.5 inches (6.35 cm). In one embodiment, the fob has a width of 1.3 inches (3.30 cm) to 2.2 inches (5.59 cm).

[0103] In one embodiment, the fob has a depth of 1 inch (2.54 cm) or less. In one embodiment, the fob has a depth of 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) or less. In one embodiment, the fob has a depth of 0.4 inches (1.02 cm) or less. In one embodiment, the fob has a depth of 0.3 inches (0.76 cm) or less. In one embodiment, the fob has a depth of 0.2 inches (0.51 cm) or less. In one embodiment, the fob has a depth of 1 inch (2.5 cm) to 2 inches (5.08 cm). In one embodiment, the fob has a depth of 0.4 inches (1.02 cm) to 1.3 inches (3.30 cm). In one embodiment, the fob has a depth of 0.2 inches (0.51 cm) to 0.8 inches (2.03 cm).

[0104] In one embodiment, a mobile device equipped with a mobile application includes setup, managing profiles, and sending profiles and data to instruments such as rangefinders and observation optics.

[0105] Laser rangefinder

[0106] In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder has the ability to send and receive data when connected to a mobile phone application and / or a ballistic hub via Bluetooth technology. The laser rangefinder can send the following data: firing angle, firing direction, range to target, wind mode, wind speed, wind direction, settings, user profile, and range profile.

[0107] In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder is configured to receive the following data: ballistic solution, user profile (gun, bullet, and curve), range profile, wind speed, wind direction, temperature data, pressure data, relative humidity data, and settings.

[0108] In one embodiment, the rangefinder may have a 905nm laser rangefinder module equipped with electronics, a display, and Bluetooth communication capabilities. In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder may have a communication protocol that enables the laser rangefinder to communicate bidirectionally with one or more connected devices, ballistic hubs, and mobile devices and industry standard devices (Kestrel, Weatherflow, Garmin). In one embodiment, the rangefinder incorporates Bluetooth technology (BLE 652 Nordic NRF 52 chipset) capable of communicating with external devices.

[0109] In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder has ranging capabilities to meet the need for long-range shooting, with a maximum range of 5000 yards (4572 m), a range of 2500 yards (2286 m) for trees, and a range of 2000 yards (1829 m) for deer.

[0110] In one embodiment, the rangefinder module has a dimensional target with a width of 45mm to 48mm, a height of 20mm to 22mm, and a length of 50mm to 55mm. In one embodiment, the rangefinder module does not exceed 4 ounces (113.4g).

[0111] In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder has a Class I 635 nm red integrated visible alignment laser. The laser is used by the user to ensure the rangefinder's core alignment (zero adjustment) to the rifle. The laser needs to be able to see from a minimum of 50 yards (45.72 m) up to 100 yards (90.44 m).

[0112] In another embodiment, the laser rangefinder has a 1.3-inch (3.30 cm) OLED display that can rotate the displayed information based on the mounting orientation.

[0113] In one embodiment, a laser rangefinder communicates with a ballistic hub or mobile device. The rangefinder sends data (range, profile, wind, etc.) to the ballistic hub / mobile phone. The ballistic hub / mobile phone provides additional data (temperature, pressure, etc.) and calculates a ballistic solution based on the rangefinder data. The ballistic solution is sent back to the rangefinder and made visible on the rangefinder display along with the rangefinder data.

[0114] In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder includes a wind direction acquisition algorithm.

[0115] In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder has single and multiple measurement modes. When the "BALLISTICS" mode is "OFF", the "SINGLE" (hereinafter also referred to as "Single") measurement mode calculates and displays a single "RANGE". The "MULTIPLE" (hereinafter also referred to as "Multiple") mode (Range Card) allows the user to measure, display, and store multiple distances. When the "BALLISTICS" mode is "ON", both measurement modes send range data to the ballistics hub / mobile device, and the ballistics solution is calculated using the stored user profile (bullet and rifle profile). Once the ballistics solution is calculated, the data is sent back to the rangefinder, which displays the calculation results for "RANGE", "VERTICLE", and "HORIZONTAL". In "Multiple" measurement mode, the user can sequentially collect and store up to 10 targets. Each measurement displays the hold calculation results (transmitted from the ballistic hub or mobile device's ballistic solver) for "range," "vertical direction," and "horizontal direction."

[0116] In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder has an integrated operation button located on the rangefinder housing. This is a five-button operation pad that allows the user to navigate through the rangefinder's menus and settings.

[0117] In one embodiment, the laser rangefinder has a remote operation button mounted on the firearm. This button is tethered to the "Rangefinder" and can be mounted at a location on the rifle designated by the user. The button allows the user to remotely control the ranging of one or more targets by selecting a digital range card by scrolling.

[0118] Communication component

[0119] In one embodiment, the ballistic hub communicates with one or more devices via BLE (Bluetooth) 4.0 or a more advanced communication method. BLE is a standard communication method between firearms equipment, other industrial equipment and instruments, and mobile devices.

[0120] Firearms equipment

[0121] In one embodiment, one or more firearm devices can communicate with a ballistic hub. Examples of firearm devices include, but are not limited to, rangefinders, sights, binoculars, monoculars, spotting scopes, and digital dope / range cards. A fob housing the ballistic hub can be used interchangeably between one or more firearm devices.

[0122] Industrial Standard Equipment

[0123] Industrial standard equipment includes, but is not limited to, Kestrel Weather Meters, WeatherFlow Meters, and Garmin Foretrex 701. To achieve ease of use, efficiency, and integration with other equipment, ballistic hubs / mobile devices can connect to weather stations (e.g., Kestrel or ultrasonic wind direction / speed detectors), GPS (e.g., Garmin), night vision modules, thermal units (e.g., FUR), rangefinders, and / or video interlinks. Each component is preferably directly linked to a PDA, computer, telephone, or other device via hardwire, IR, Bluetooth, microwave, manual input, etc.

[0124] Device architecture

[0125] In one embodiment, the device architecture needs to support a standardized communication protocol. The rangefinder communicates with a ballistic hub, mobile devices, other devices, and external industrial equipment (such as a windmeter). Therefore, a common communication protocol ensures a supportable platform. It is useful to provide a common set of device outputs / inputs that can be consumed by other devices and mobile devices with mobile applications.

[0126] For example, common data outputs include range to target, user profile (rifle, bullet, curve data), range profile (memory range card), ballistic solution, firing angle, firing direction, wind mode, wind speed, wind direction, pressure data, temperature data, and relative humidity data.

[0127] Common data inputs include user profiles (guns, bullets, and curves), range profiles, wind speed, wind direction, sleep time delay, ballistic solutions, temperature data, pressure data, and relative humidity data.

[0128] Equipment memory and storage requirements

[0129] In one embodiment, the rangefinder has sufficient processing power and memory to support Bluetooth communication and data acquisition / retrieval. It has the ability to store user profiles and range profiles. The device must support the ability to acquire and display ballistic solutions from a ballistic hub or mobile device.

[0130] Anemometer built-in

[0131] In one embodiment, when connected to an anemometer via Bluetooth technology, the rangefinder has the function of sending and receiving data. The rangefinder can send the following data to the anemometer: firing angle, firing direction, and range to the target.

[0132] In one embodiment, the rangefinder can receive the following data from the anemometer: wind speed, wind direction, temperature data, pressure data, and relative humidity data.

[0133] Garmin built-in

[0134] In one embodiment, when connected to a Garmin Foretrex 701 device via Bluetooth technology, the rangefinder has the ability to transmit data. The rangefinder can transmit the following data to the Garmin Foretrex 701 device: firing angle, firing direction, range to target, range profile, temperature data, pressure data, and relative humidity data.

[0135] Typical system operation

[0136] Next, we will describe one representative, non-limiting embodiment of the system. The system is switched from the "OFF" state to the "ON" state by pressing the "MEASURE" button. The firearm-mounted rangefinder has two main operating modes: "RANGE" mode and "BAL" mode. The mode is selected via a menu.

[0137] When in BAL mode, the rangefinder exports range data to the Ballistic Hub or a mobile device with the mobile application. The rangefinder imports and displays the ballistic solution from the Ballistic Hub and / or the mobile device with the mobile application. This is achieved by accessing the ballistic solver, environmental sensors, and weapon and range profiles residing in the mobile device with the Ballistic Hub and / or the mobile application.

[0138] When in "Ballistic (BAL)" mode, ballistic computer calculations cannot be performed.

[0139] Pressing and releasing the "Measure" button provides a single range. Double-clicking the "Measure" button activates "Scan" mode, which continuously measures the distance to the target and displays the updated range on the screen. Once the "Measure" button is pressed again, the last range is displayed.

[0140] Once a ballistic solution is requested and returned, pressing or releasing the "UP" or "DOWN" buttons cycles through the four values ​​associated with the solution: captured temperature, pressure, direction, and wind (changing in the order of temperature → pressure → direction → wind → ...). Pressing and releasing the "LEFT" or "RIGHT" button increases or decreases the wind value by one unit, and the system computer calculates a new ballistic solution. Pressing the "LEFT" and "RIGHT" buttons simultaneously sets the wind speed to zero.

[0141] The user has the ability to select one of two display modes: "Single (SNG)" measurement mode and "Multiple (MLT)" measurement mode.

[0142] The "Single (SNG)" measurement mode allows the user to measure the distance to a single target. In BAL mode, the "Range," "Vertical," and "Horizontal" hold calculation results from a mobile device with the Ballistic Hub and / or mobile application are displayed alongside the range data.

[0143] The "Multiple Target Range (MLT)" measurement mode allows the user to sequentially collect and store up to 10 targets. In this mode, the user views a list of stored target "ranges" and, if in BAL mode, the attached "vertical" and "horizontal" hold data. Once a target is measured, a single "range" data is displayed. If the user wishes to add this to the range list, they press the "right" arrow. The range data is sent to the ballistic hub and / or mobile device, and "BALLISTIC CORRECTIONS" are returned to the rangefinder. If the range was not accurately captured, the user should measure the target again without adding the previous data to the range list. If the user wishes not to add the range to the range list, they can return to the range list screen by pressing the "left" arrow. Upon returning to the range list, the user is prompted to "save" the range list with a "YES" or "NO" prompt. The user can use the "Up" and "Down" arrows to select "Yes" or "No". If "Yes" is selected, the user is prompted to enter the "Range Card Profile" title. Once displayed on the range list screen, the user can use the "Up" and "Down" arrows to highlight ranges in the list. The "Right" arrow highlights the topmost range in the displayed list, allowing "Up" and "Down" to reposition the selected entry in the range card. Pressing the "Measure" button saves the highlighted range to the selected position. Pressing "Left" prompts the user to save the range list with a "Yes" or "No" prompt. The user can use the "Up" and "Down" arrows to select "Yes" or "No". If "Yes" is selected, the user is prompted to enter the "Range Card Profile" title. The saved data consists of range, tilt, bearing, left / right and up / down corrections. The "Range Card Profile" should ideally be transmitted to a ballistic hub, mobile device, or any connected device.Mobile devices allow users to save range card data as a "Range Card" profile. This "Range Card" profile can then be uploaded from the Ballistic Hub and / or mobile device to any available device.

[0144] If the "Rangefinder" is a Bluetooth-enabled device, it should connect to a ballistic hub, a smartphone with a mobile application, other devices, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. When the "Rangefinder" is connected to a display unit, it sends signals to the display to show the entire ballistic solution to the user. The printed circuit board assembly should have the capability to allow microcontroller re-flash to occur throughout the entire Bluetooth module. Similarly, the Bluetooth module firmware should also be updatable.

[0145] Press and hold the "Measure" button for 5 seconds to access the menu. The user can use the "Arrow" and "Enter" buttons to navigate and select settings.

[0146] The settings in the "OPERATIONS" menu include, but are not limited to, the following: a. Range measurement modes include "Range" (no ballistic characteristics) and "Ballad (BAL)" (ballistic characteristics). b. Measurement modes include "Single" and "Multiple". c. Wind tracking modes include "Full Crosswind (FCW)" and "Wide Wind Direction Tracking (WBC)". d. The weapon profile includes memory and input from one or more firearm profiles. e. A range profile contains stored information and input for one or more range profiles.

[0147] The "SETUP" menu settings include, but are not limited to, display activation, target mode, units such as yards, Fahrenheit temperature, British notation with Hg as the unit, miles per hour, and meters, Celsius temperature, millibars, meters per second, and the metric system as shown by the compass.

[0148] The "CONNECTIONS" menu settings include import data (off, Kestrel, Weatherflow) and export data (off, Kestrel and Garmin).

[0149] The menu allows the user to view all connected devices ("BALLISTIC HUB", "SCOPE", "BINOCULAR", "DIGITAL RANGE CARD", "SPOTTING SCOPE", "PHONE", "KESTREL", "WEATHERFLOW", "GARMIN FORETREX"). This menu also allows the user to "DISCONNECT" a device if desired or as needed.

[0150] Additionally, the menu allows users to view previously connected devices. The "DEVICES IN MEMORY" category displays the device connection history and all devices that were recognized via Bluetooth but not connected. All devices in this list are currently disconnected. This menu allows users to "CONNECT" or "Disconnect" devices.

[0151] Wind speed adjustment in ballistic mode

[0152] There are two wind modes selectable by the user: "Full Crosswind (FCW)" and "Wide-Bounded Wind (WBC)".

[0153] FCW mode is the default mode, and in this full crosswind mode, the "Left" and "Right" buttons are used to increase or decrease wind speed in 1 mph or 1 m / s increments, with corresponding arrows displayed. For example, pressing the "Left" button twice increases the wind speed by 2 units, and the corresponding left arrow is displayed. Then, pressing the "Right" button once decreases the wind speed by 1 unit, and the "Left" arrow remains displayed. When the "Left" and "Right" buttons are pressed while in FCW mode, all wind direction values ​​are treated as if they originate from either 90° or 270° to the user. If the "Rangefinder" times out, the unit remains in FCW mode, retaining the last wind speed and wind direction entered by the user. If the "Left" and "Right" buttons are pressed simultaneously while in FCW mode, the wind speed becomes zero, and the unit flashes the new zero value three times.

[0154] The user enters wind direction acquisition mode by selecting it from the operation menu. In WBC mode, the solver formulates all ballistic calculations using the acquired wind direction relative to the firing direction. When returning to the main display, the wind direction and wind direction arrow flash three times. When in WBC mode, both the left and right wind direction arrows illuminate to indicate that wind direction acquisition mode is active. Wind speed is updated one unit at a time by pressing the "left" and "right" buttons. The "left" and "right" buttons do not change the wind direction. The wind direction displays "---°" until the direction is entered, at which point the direction (0-360°) is displayed. To acquire a wind direction, point the unit towards the wind and press the "WIND" button. If the user wishes to acquire a different direction, point the rangefinder towards the wind direction and press the "WIND" button again. This replaces the previously acquired wind direction with the newly acquired direction. When the "rangefinder" times out, the unit remains in WBC mode, retaining the last captured bearing and velocity.

[0155] The systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein are further described by the embodiments described in the following paragraphs. [Embodiment Clause 1] A device comprising one or more ballistic computers configured to provide a ballistic solution and to communicate with a separate and independent rangefinder. [Embodiment Clause 2] A device having one or more ballistic computers, one or more environmental sensors configured to communicate with a rangefinder, which is characterized in that the device is not incorporated into the rangefinder, firearm, or observation optical instrument. [Embodiment Clause 3] A device having one or more ballistic computers that provide a ballistic solution, and a processor / control module configured to communicate with a mobile device and a rangefinder, characterized in that the device is not incorporated into the rangefinder, firearm or observation optical instrument. [Embodiment Clause 4] A device comprising a ballistic computer that provides a ballistic solution, and software for a processor / control module configured to communicate with a mobile device and a rangefinder, characterized in that a user selects the software for the ballistic computer via the mobile device. [Embodiment Clause 5] A system comprising a rangefinder configured to calculate the distance to a target, a ballistic hub having one or more ballistic computers that calculate a ballistic solution using the distance provided by the rangefinder, and an observation optical instrument having a processor configured to receive the ballistic solution from the ballistic hub and a display for displaying the ballistic solution. [Embodiment Clause 6] A system comprising a rangefinder configured to calculate the distance to a target, a ballistic hub having a ballistic computer for calculating a ballistic solution using the distance provided by the rangefinder, and a processor configured to communicate the ballistic solution to the rangefinder. [Embodiment Clause 7] A system comprising a rangefinder configured to calculate the distance to a target, a ballistic hub having a selected ballistic computer that calculates a ballistic solution using the distance provided by the rangefinder, and a mobile device configured to transmit the selected ballistic computer to the ballistic hub. [Embodiment Clause 8] The apparatus according to any one of Embodiment Clauses 1 to 7, characterized in that the apparatus is not incorporated into a rangefinder, firearm, or observation optical instrument. [Embodiment Clause 9] The apparatus according to any one of Embodiment Clauses 1 to 8, characterized in that the apparatus can be clipped to a rangefinder, firearm, or observation optical instrument.

[0156] In particular, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and descriptions contained herein, but includes modifications of embodiments that include some parts of embodiments and combinations of different embodiment components that fall within the scope of the invention as described in the following claims. Furthermore, the present invention can also be configured as follows in a preferred configuration. 1. A system including a mobile device equipped with a mobile application having a ballistic solver and configured to transmit the ballistic solver to a ballistic hub, wherein the ballistic hub is configured to house and operate the ballistic solver and to receive range from a rangefinder, and the ballistic hub calculates a ballistic solution using the ballistic solver in the absence of internet or cellular connectivity. 2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a weather tracker device configured to send and receive information to and from the ballistic hub. 3. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a navigation device configured to send and receive information to and from the ballistic hub. 4. The system according to claim 1, further comprising an observation optical instrument configured to send and receive information to and from the ballistic hub. 5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the mobile device is configured to transmit user setup information to the ballistic hub. 6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the user setup information is selected from the group consisting of device pairing, device setting items, firearm setting item selection, bullet setting item selection, drag model selection, user profile selection and management, environmental sensors, wind direction acquisition device, compass calibration, single and multiple ballistic displays, range card profile selection and management, and target parameters. 7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the ballistic hub further comprises a sensor for at least one of temperature, pressure, and humidity. 8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the ballistic hub is configured to transmit the ballistic solution to the rangefinder without using the internet or cellular connectivity. 9. The system according to claim 4, wherein the ballistic hub is configured to transmit the ballistic solution to the observation optical instrument. 10. The system according to claim 1, wherein the ballistic hub and the rangefinder communicate with each other using Bluetooth communication. 11. The system according to claim 1, wherein the ballistic hub is housed within a fob. 12. An instrument having a ballistic hub configured to receive range from a laser rangefinder and calculate a ballistic solution, wherein the ballistic hub is housed within a fob. 13. The device according to claim 12, wherein the ballistic hub and the rangefinder communicate with each other using Bluetooth communication. 14. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the ballistic hub is configured to transmit the ballistic solution to the rangefinder without using the internet or cellular connectivity. 15. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the ballistic hub is configured to communicate with a weather tracker device. 16. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the ballistic hub is configured to communicate with an observation optical instrument. 17. The device according to claim 12, wherein the ballistic hub is configured to communicate with a navigation system. 18. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the ballistic hub is configured to receive a ballistic solver from a mobile device. 19. A fob having a ballistic hub configured to receive range from a rangefinder and including a ballistic solver for calculating a ballistic solution, wherein the fob has a height of 3 inches (7.62 cm) or less, a width of 3 inches (7.62 cm) or less, and a depth of 1 inch (2.54 cm) or less.

Claims

1. A system that provides ballistic solutions, Personal display devices and Ballistic hub and, It has a rangefinder, The personal display device comprises a first ballistic solver and a second ballistic solver, is configured to allow the user to select either the first or the second ballistic solver, and is equipped with a mobile application configured to transmit the ballistic solver to a ballistic hub, and the personal display device is selected from a group consisting of a phone, a watch, and a wrist accessory. The ballistic hub is configured to house the ballistic solver, operate the ballistic solver, and receive the range from the rangefinder. The ballistic hub calculates a ballistic solution using the ballistic solver and transmits the ballistic solution to the rangefinder in the absence of internet or cellular connectivity, the ballistic hub is housed in a fob which is a small wireless device, and the ballistic hub is not a component of the rangefinder.

2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a weather tracker device configured to send and receive information to and from the ballistic hub.

3. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a navigation system configured to send and receive information to and from the ballistic hub.

4. The system according to claim 1, further comprising an observation optical instrument configured to send and receive information to and from the ballistic hub.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the mobile device is configured to transmit user setup information to the ballistic hub.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the user setup information is selected from the group consisting of device pairing, device setting items, firearm setting item selection, bullet setting item selection, drag model selection, user profile selection and management, environmental sensors, wind direction acquisition device, compass calibration, single and multiple ballistic displays, range card profile selection and management, and target parameters.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the ballistic hub further comprises a sensor for at least one of temperature, pressure, and humidity.

8. The system according to claim 4, wherein the ballistic hub is configured to transmit the ballistic solution to the observation optical instrument.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein the ballistic hub and the rangefinder communicate with each other using Bluetooth communication.

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