Eclipse Sights with Adjustable Apertures

Abstract

A sight having an adjustable aperture for improving aiming in different or change lighting conditions. Some embodiments of adjustable apertures comprise iris diaphragms. Other embodiments comprise compression rings with flexible fingers or a compression donut. Embodiments of illuminated rings improve user's perception of center-on-center alignment. Some embodiments comprise a vertical hair and a torque pin to improve user's perception of vertical rotation. A method of using a sight having an adjustable aperture.

Description

PRIOR ARTFiring Device and Projectiles

[0001] Firing devices such as bows, crossbows, rifles, pistols, other guns, and artillery have been used for sport, hunting, law enforcement, and military. Each firing device is used to launch a projectile such as an arrow, dart, bullet, ball, or explosive shell along a projectile trajectory.

[0002] FIG. 1A shows a user (in this case, an archer) 100 with a bow 102 with a bow sight 110 and an arrow 104. The bow sight 110 comprises pins adjusted e.g., for twenty yards, forty yards, and sixty yards, namely a twenty-yard pin, a forty-yard pin, and a sixty-yard pin, respectively (as shown in FIG. 2A). FIG. 1A also shows a bow string sight (peep) 120 in the bow string above the arrow 104 aligned with the user's eye. Arrows 104 are typically shot from a bow 102 using the arms to aim and sight by aligning the bow string sight (peep) 120 and bow sight 110 with the target. Once the user's eye, peep 120, and bow sight 110 pin are aligned with the target are all aligned the archer releases the arrow 104.

[0003] FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C show details of the bow string sight (peep) 120 such as peep grooves 122 which hold the peep 120 in place in the string.

[0004] FIG. 1D shows a rifle 300 with front sight 301 and a rear sight 303. Rifle balls and / or bullets are typically shot from a gun using the arms to aim and sight by aligning the gun front sight 301 and rear sight 303 with the target.Ballistic Trajectory and Bow Sight Pins

[0005] Arrows, spears, balls, bullets, and shells when fired follow a ballistic trajectory. Such projectiles, which are not self-propelled, move through air according to a generally parabolic curve due primarily to the effects of gravity.

[0006] To adjust the aim to account for the ballistic trajectory of an arrow, an archer 100 may align one or more bow sight 110 pins at known distances, such as twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260 shown for example in FIG. 2A.Changing Light Conditions and Eye Constriction and Dilation

[0007] In outdoor settings, there are constantly changing light conditions. The sun moves through the sky, coming up in the east in the morning and going down in the west in the evening. Fog or passing clouds may change the amount of light that enters the user's eye. Targets change position or show up from different angles causing the user to aim in different positions relative to the sun. Some targets may have a dark background such as a tree or mountain. Other targets may have a light background such a sandy hillside and shiny grass. As these changes take place the amount of light entering the eye changes. When exposed to more light, the eye naturally constricts as the pupils shrink to limit the amount of light entering the eyes. When exposed to less light, the pupils dilate to increase the amount entering the eye. The image becomes blurred making it harder to aim.

[0008] FIG. 3A illustrates the visual distortion or glare caused by bright light, e.g. sun 740, behind a bow sight 110.

[0009] FIG. 3B illustrates the visual distortion or glare caused by bright light, e.g. sun 740, behind a bow sight 110 as further seen through a peep 120. The bright light makes it more difficult to precisely center bow sight 110 in the center of the peep 120.

[0010] FIG. 3B illustrates a situation where the bow sight 110 is not perfectly centered inside the peep 120, for example, there is a gap which is larger at the right edge. This misalignment in aim may cause the arrow to miss the target.

[0011] FIG. 3C illustrates the visual challenge caused by limited light, e.g. a target under a shady tree 700 or at dusk, behind a bow sight 110 as seen through a peep 120. Several obstacles 700, including a branch 710 and a bush 730 are shown behind the bow sight pins, e.g. twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260.

[0012] FIG. 3C illustrates a situation where the bow sight 110 is not perfectly centered inside the peep 120, for example there is a gap which is larger at the lower left edge where portions of the deer, bush 730, and tree obstacles 700 are seen. This misalignment in aim may cause the arrow to miss the target.Prior Attempts to Enhance Visibility of Bow Sight Housing

[0013] To aid the user seeing the bow sight housing in certain lighting conditions, some bow sights have been equipped with a concentric illuminated ring 130 on the housing of the bow sight 110 as shown in FIG. 2B.

[0014] More recently, bow sights 110 have been designed to have different color rings that snap onto the otherwise black housing of the bow sight 110 or have been provided with different colored rubber bands which fit over the black housing of the bow sight 110.

[0015] However, each of these prior attempts have a fixed size e.g. the size concentric illuminated ring 130 or the size of the colored ring, or the size of the housing. These help the user in certain conditions but are not effective when lighting conditions change as shown in FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B, and FIG. 3C, and as discussed above.

[0016] What is needed are devices and methods for adjusting the aperture of a sight such that the size of the front sight (such as the bow sight 110 or gun front sight 301) adjusts the amount of light coming through it to the rear sight (such as the peep 120 or gun rear sight 303) and ultimately in the eye of the user.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0017] In outdoor settings, there are constantly changing light conditions. When exposed to more light, the eye naturally constricts as the pupils shrink to limit the amount of light entering the eyes. When exposed to less light, the pupils dilate to increase the amount entering the eye.

[0018] The present invention relates to sights with adjustable apertures. The present invention includes devices and methods for adjusting the aperture of a sight so that the size of the front sight (such as the bow sight 110 or gun front sight 301) adjusts the amount of light coming through it to the rear sight (such as the peep 120 or gun rear sight 303) and ultimately in the eye of the user.

[0019] By thus adjusting the light entering the front sight, the archer can more accurately align the center of the peep 120 with the center of the bow sight 110, and the gun user is able to more accurately align the center of the rear sight 303 with the center of the front sight 301.

[0020] The present invention also includes embodiments where the adjustable aperture is on the rear sight 303.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The present invention solves the above-described problems and provides a distinct advance in the art of bow sights and fixed gun sights.

[0022] In some bow sight embodiments, the front bow sight has an adjustable aperture.

[0023] In some gun sight embodiments, the gun front sight has an adjustable aperture.

[0024] In other gun sight embodiments, the gun rear sight has an adjustable aperture.

[0025] Some embodiments of adjustable apertures comprise an iris diaphragm, where the iris leaves are controlled by an aperture control.

[0026] Some embodiments of adjustable apertures comprise a compression aperture, where fingers are compressed by a compressing ring.

[0027] Some embodiments of adjustable apertures comprise a compression donut, where a flexible donut shaped ring is compress by a compressing ring.

[0028] Some embodiments further comprise illuminated elements, such as fiber optics, glow rings, or LED segments.

[0029] Some embodiments further comprise a level.

[0030] Some embodiments further comprise a vertical hair and a torque pin held in place by a pin bracket.Objects and Advantages

[0031] Accordingly, the present invention provides the following objects and advantages:

[0032] To provide devices for adjusting the aperture of a sight so that the size of the front sight (such as the bow sight or gun front sight) so that the size of the front sight adjusts the amount of light coming through it to the rear sight (such as a peep or gun rear sight) and ultimately in the eye of the user.

[0033] To provide methods for adjusting the aperture of a sight so that the size of the front sight (such as the bow sight or gun front sight) so that the size of the front sight adjusts the amount of light coming through it to the rear sight (such as a peep or gun rear sight) and ultimately in the eye of the user.

[0034] To provide a bow sight with an adjustable aperture.

[0035] To provide a bow sight with an iris diaphragm aperture.

[0036] To provide a bow sight with a compression aperture.

[0037] To provide a gun front sight with an adjustable aperture.

[0038] To provide a gun rear sight with an adjustable aperture.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0039] A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein:

[0040] FIG. 1A illustrates an archer with a bow with a bow sight and a bow string sight (peep);

[0041] FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C illustrate details of a bow string sight (peep);

[0042] FIG. 1D illustrates a rifle with a front sight and a rear sight;

[0043] FIG. 2A illustrates a bow sight with pins;

[0044] FIG. 2B illustrates a bow sight with a concentric illuminated ring;

[0045] FIG. 3A illustrates the visual distortion or glare caused by bright light behind a bow sight;

[0046] FIG. 3B illustrates the visual distortion or glare caused by bright light behind a bow sight as seen through a peep;

[0047] FIG. 3C illustrates the visual challenge caused by limited light behind a bow sight as seen through a peep;

[0048] FIG. 4A illustrates a bow sight with an adjustable aperture;

[0049] FIG. 4B shows a three-quarter view of the bow sight with an adjustable aperture;

[0050] FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B, and FIG. 5C illustrate the components and operation of an adjustable aperture comprising an iris diaphragm;

[0051] FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C illustrate the components and operation of an adjustable aperture comprising a compression aperture;

[0052] FIG. 7 illustrates bow sight having an adjustable aperture comprising a flexible compression donut;

[0053] FIG. 8A illustrates bow sight having an adjustable aperture comprising an iris diaphragm having a glow edge;

[0054] FIG. 8B shows an embodiment of an adjustable aperture comprising a plurality of fingers, each finger comprising fiber optic end;

[0055] FIG. 8C illustrates a ring for a bow sight formed from a florescent optic tube;

[0056] FIG. 8D illustrates a ring for a bow sight comprising a plurality fiber optic ends;

[0057] FIG. 9A illustrates a bow sight having a ring comprising a glow ring;

[0058] FIG. 9B illustrates a bow sight having a ring comprising a plurality of glow arcs and a plurality of fiber optic ends;

[0059] FIG. 9C illustrates a bow sight having a ring comprising a plurality of glow arcs 860 and two sets of fiber optic ends;

[0060] FIG. 9D illustrates a bow sight having a ring comprising a plurality of triangle pointers;

[0061] FIG. 9E illustrates a bow sight having a ring comprising a glow ring and a dark ring;

[0062] FIG. 9F illustrates a bow sight having a ring comprising a glow ring comprising a plurality of concentric LED rings outside of a dark ring 160;

[0063] FIG. 9G illustrates an apparent eclipse as visualized by a user's pupil of a portion of a bow sight ring seen through a peep;

[0064] FIG. 10A illustrates an aiming system for a gun with an adjustable aperture on the front sight;

[0065] FIG. 10B illustrates an aiming system for a gun with an adjustable aperture on the rear sight; and

[0066] FIG. 11A through FIG. 11C illustrates a bow sight having a vertical hair and an adjustable torque pin;

[0067] The drawing figures do not limit the present invention to the specific embodiments disclosed and described herein. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the invention.REFERENCE NUMERALS IN DRAWINGS100archer or user102bow104arrow110bow sight120bow string sight (peep)122peep grooves130concentric illuminated ring132a-cLED ring140ring150eclipse160dark ring220twenty-yard pin240forty-yard pin260sixty-yard pin300rifle301front sight303rear sight400adjustable aperture410iris diaphragm412iris leaf (leaves)413leaf pin414aperture control416slotted disc418front disc419leaf pivot620compression aperture630compression base632base threads640a-nfinger642ring threads644grips650compression ring700obstacles710branch730bush740sun790compression donut810glow edge820a-nfiber optic end830fiber optic filament840optic tube850glow ring860glow arc902vertical hair904torque pin906torque pin adjuster908pin bracket910a-ctriangle pointer984levelDETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0068] The following detailed description of the invention references the accompanying drawings that illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. The embodiments are intended to describe aspects of the invention in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments can be utilized, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.Bow Sight with Adjustable Aperture

[0069] FIG. 4A illustrates a bow sight 110 with an adjustable aperture 400. FIG. 4A shows an adjustable aperture 400 embodiment with an iris diaphragm 410 comprising a plurality of iris leaves 412. One end of each iris leaf 412 pivots at an anchor hole which holds the leaf pivot 419. The position of each of the iris leaves 412 are controlled with an aperture control 414. The iris diaphragm 410 changes the size of the iris opening, thus controlling the amount of light that comes through the adjustable aperture 400. The pins of the bow sight 110, such as twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260 (FIG. 2A), are visualized by the user through the iris opening.

[0070] FIG. 4B shows a three-quarter view of the bow sight 110 with an adjustable aperture 400 of FIG. 4A. The iris diaphragm 410 comprising a plurality of iris leaves 412. One end of each iris leaf 412 pivots at an anchor hole which holds the leaf pivot 419. The position of each of the iris leaves 412 are controlled with an aperture control 414.

[0071] This three-quarter view shows the structure of the bow sight 110, including coils of fiber optic filament 830. The fiber optic filaments 830 collect light from the environment. Fiber optic filaments 830 may be used to illuminate the point on one of the bow sight pins: for example, a first fiber optic filament 830 may be used to illuminate the point on the twenty-yard pin 220; a second fiber optic filament 830 may be used to illuminate the point on the forty-yard pin 240; and a third fiber optic filament 830 may be used to illuminate the point on the sixty-yard pin 260. As will be disclosed below regarding other embodiments, other fiber optic filaments may be used in novel ways.Adjustable Aperture with Iris Diaphragm

[0072] FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B, and FIG. 5C illustrate the components and operation of an adjustable aperture 400 comprising an iris diaphragm 410.

[0073] FIG. 5A shows a curved iris leaf 412 having a leaf pin 413 centered in one end and a leaf pivot 419 centered in the other end.

[0074] FIG. 5B shows a slotted disc 416 of the adjustable aperture 400 which receives and determines the track of the leaf pin 413 of each iris leaf 412. The slotted disc 416 is not visible in FIG. 4A nor FIG. 4B as it is inside the housing. For clarity only one leaf is shown; however, when fully assembled there is one leaf 412 for each slot. The leaves 412 are stacked to form partially overlapping layers. As the aperture control 414 rotates the slotted disc 416, the leaf pin 413 of each of the iris leaves 412 slides in the respective slot and changes the position of the respective iris leaf 412.

[0075] FIG. 5C shows the front disc 418 of the adjustable aperture 400 which holds and anchors the other end of each iris leaf 412, which pivots at its respective leaf pivot 419.Adjustable Aperture with Compression Aperture

[0076] FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C illustrate the components and operation of an adjustable aperture 400 comprising a compression aperture 620.

[0077] FIG. 6A shows an embodiment of a compression base 630 of a compression aperture 620. The orientation of the compression base 630 is shown bow sight pins, such as twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260 (FIG. 2A). The compression base 630 comprises a plurality of fingers (640a-n).

[0078] FIG. 6B shows a side view of the compression base 630 of FIG. 6A, showing the spacing and shape of each of the plurality of fingers 640. The compressing base 630 comprises base threads 632.

[0079] FIG. 6C shows an embodiment of a compression ring 650 comprising ring threads 642 and grips 644.

[0080] The compression ring 650 (FIG. 6C) slides over the fingers 640 of the compression base 630 (FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B) and adjustably screws down on the compressing the fingers. The ring threads 642 of the compression ring 650 engage the base threads 632 of the compression base 630. As the compression ring 650 moves toward the compression base 630, the fingers 640 move closer together reducing the size of opening in the aperture. When unscrewed, the compression ring 650 moves away from the compression base 630 allow the fingers 640 to open out increasing the size of the opening in the aperture. The grips 644 enable the user to more finely turn the compression ring 650 and thus to more finely adjust the size of the opening of the aperture.Adjustable Aperture with Compression Donut

[0081] FIG. 7 illustrates bow sight 110 having an adjustable aperture 400 comprising a flexible compression donut 790. The bow sight 110 comprises at least one bow sight pin, such as twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260 (FIG. 2A).

[0082] The compression donut 790 may be made from a flexible material such as rubber, synthetic rubber, or silicon.

[0083] In one embodiment, the compression donut 790 is compressed by screwing down a threaded compression cap (not shown) onto a base having base threads 632 (similar to the compression base 630 of FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B). As the compression cap tightens, the compression donut 790 flattens reducing the size of the opening. As the compression cap loosens, the compression donut 790 returns toward its resting shape, increasing the size of opening.Illuminating the Opening in the Adjustable Aperture

[0084] The user's ability to align the bow sight 110 with the peep 120 is enhanced by illuminating the opening in the adjustable aperture 400.

[0085] FIG. 8A illustrates bow sight 110 having an adjustable aperture 400 comprising an iris diaphragm 410 having a glow edge 810. In this embodiment, a central edge of each of plurality of iris leaves 412 comprises a glow edge 810. When the aperture control 414 is moved, visible portions glow edges 810 of the plurality of iris leaves 412 changes in collective circumference.

[0086] In one embodiment, the glow edge 810 is painted with glow-in-the-dark paint.

[0087] FIG. 8B shows an embodiment of an adjustable aperture 400 comprising a compression base 630 of a compression aperture 620 (FIG. 6A). The compression base 630 comprises a plurality of fingers (640a-n), similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6A. In this embodiment, each finger 640 comprises a channel for a fiber optic, where fiber optic end 820 illuminates the central edge of each finger 640. The example shown in FIG. 8B comprises a plurality of fingers 640a-n with a plurality of fiber optic ends 820a-n.

[0088] Similar to the operation of the embodiment in FIG. 6A, when the compression ring 650 (FIG. 6C) moves toward the compression base 630, the fingers 640 move closer together reducing the size of opening in the aperture, and reducing the circumference of the circle of fiber optic ends 820. When unscrewed, the compression ring 650 moves away from the compression base 630 allow the fingers 640 to open out increasing the size of the opening in the aperture, and increasing the circumference of the circle of fiber optic ends 820.Illuminating the Bow Sight Ring

[0089] FIG. 8C illustrates a ring 140 for a bow sight 110 formed from a florescent optic tube 840. Looking down the inside of the optic tube 840, the far end is visualized inside the upper left of the ring 140. Similar to the fiber optic filament 830, the optic tube 840 absorbs light from the environment and illuminates the end of the optic tube 840, forming a glow edge 810.

[0090] In some embodiments the fingers 640 (shown in FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B) is made from a florescent optic tube 840 with slots cut to form the fingers.

[0091] FIG. 8D illustrates a ring 140 for a bow sight 110 comprising a plurality of fiber optic filament 830a-d, where each respective fiber optic end 820a-d, is configured to illuminate the inside edge of the ring 140. Similar to the bow sight pins which are illuminated by fiber optic filament 830 as discussed above regarding FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the fiber optic filament 830 collects light from the environment and is used here to illuminate the edge of the bow sight 110 ring 140 in embodiments of this invention.Embodiments of Illuminated Bow Sight Rings

[0092] FIG. 9A illustrates a bow sight 110 having a ring 140 comprising a glow ring 850. Unlike the prior art in FIG. 2B, the entire visible edge of the ring 140 is illuminated by glow ring 850. The portion of the ring 140 that is seen through the peep 120 can be perfectly aligned through an adjustable aperture 400 so that the user visualized a thin “eclipse” of the illuminated ring 140. The user can keep focus on the aiming pins (e.g. 220, 240, 260) and the target while perceiving with their peripheral version the perfectly aligned eclipse of light. When the adjustable aperture is adjusted for the instant lighting condition, and when the bow sight 110 is perfectly aligned, the visible edge of the illuminated ring 140 will appear with equal glow (an apparent eclipse 150, FIG. 9G) around the entire inner circumference of the peep 120.

[0093] In this embodiment, the glow ring 850 is formed from an optic tube 840 (FIG. 8C). Other embodiments are formed with florescent paint or by a light emitting diode (LED) 132.

[0094] FIG. 9A also illustrates the bow sight 110 having a level 984. The level allows the user to ensure that the bow 102 with the attached bow sight 110 is level with the earth such that the aiming pins (e.g. 220, 240, 260) are square with the arrow's trajectory. Misalignment of the bow while aiming may cause the arrow to miss the target.

[0095] To use an embodiment with illuminated bow sight ring to improve aiming, the user (in this case an archer) 100 would first draw the bow 102 as shown in FIG. 1A in a current lighting condition (such as sun 740 or bright background as illustrated in FIG. 3B or a shaded background as illustrated in FIG. 3C). It is difficult to precisely aim; as illustrated in FIG. 3B and FIG. 3C, the bow sight 110 is not precisely centered in the peep 120. While looking through the peep 120 attached to a string of the bow 102 as shown in FIG. 1A, the user determines how much light is passing through the bow sight 110. In other words, the user determines if amount of light is too much or too little for the current size of the pupil in the aiming eye of the user. The user then adjusts the adjustable aperture 400, so that a thin portion of the illuminated bow sight ring appears in the user's peripheral vision, forming an apparent eclipse 150 (see FIG. 9G). Then while focusing on a target and a pin of the bow sight 110, the user 100 centers the apparent eclipse 150 with the peep 120 using peripheral vision as shown in FIG. 9G. The use of other embodiments discussed below is similar.

[0096] FIG. 9B illustrates a bow sight 110 having a ring 140 comprising a plurality of glow arcs 860a-d on the outside of the ring 140 and a plurality of fiber optic ends 820a-d shown spaced at the ends of the glow arcs 860 on the inner edge of the ring 140, in a dark ring 160. The user can keep focus on the aiming pins (e.g. 220, 240, 260) and the target while perceiving with their peripheral version the perfectly aligned eclipse of light of the glow arcs 860a-d or the fiber optic ends 820a-d. A level 984 is also shown.

[0097] FIG. 9C illustrates a bow sight 110 having a ring 140 comprising a plurality of glow arcs 860a-d on the center of the ring 140, a plurality of fiber optic ends 820a-d shown spaced at the ends of the glow arcs 860 on the inner edge of the ring 140, and a plurality of fiber optic ends 820e-h shown spaced at the middle of respective glow arcs 860 on the outer edge of the ring 140. The user can keep focus on the aiming pins (e.g. 220, 240, 260) and the target while perceiving with their peripheral version the perfectly aligned eclipse of light of the glow arcs 860a-d or the fiber optic ends 820a-h. A level 984 is also shown.

[0098] FIG. 9D illustrates a bow sight 110 having a ring 140 comprising a plurality of triangle pointers 910a-c spaced around the ring 140. The user can keep focus on the aiming pins (e.g. 220, 240, 260) and the target while perceiving with their peripheral version the perfectly aligned light points of the triangle pointers 910. A level 984 is also shown.

[0099] FIG. 9E illustrates a bow sight 110 having a ring 140 comprising a glow ring 850 and a dark ring 160. The other elements 220, 240, 260, 984 are the same as described in FIG. 9A.

[0100] FIG. 9F illustrates a bow sight 110 having a ring 140 comprising a glow ring 850 comprising a plurality of concentric LED rings 132a-c outside of a dark ring 160. The other elements 220, 240, 260, 984 are the same as described in FIG. 9A.

[0101] In one embodiment each of the plurality of concentric LED rings 132 are selectively illuminated. The user can select one or more LED rings to be illuminated, thus affecting the apparent eclipse.

[0102] In another embodiment intensity of each of the plurality of concentric LED rings 132 are selectively varied. The user can select the level of illumination of each LED, thus affecting the apparent eclipse.

[0103] FIG. 9G illustrates an apparent eclipse 150 as visualized by a user's pupil of bow sight 110 ring (shown, for example, as a glow ring 850 with a dark ring 160) seen through a peep 120;Gun Sights with Adjustable Aperture

[0104] FIG. 10A illustrates an aiming system for a gun with an adjustable aperture 400 on the front sight 301. FIG. 10A shows a front sight 301 having an iris diaphragm 410 (similar to the one described in references to FIG. 4A and FIG. 5A through FIG. 5C). The front sight 301 is shown through the rear sight 303. The iris diaphragm 410 changes the size of the iris opening, thus controlling the amount of light that comes through the adjustable aperture 400. The user is better able to perfectly center the front sight 301 and the target through the rear sight 303.

[0105] FIG. 10B illustrates an aiming system for a gun with an adjustable aperture 400 on the rear sight 303. FIG. 10B shows a rear sight 303 having an iris diaphragm 410 (similar to the one described in references to FIG. 4A and FIG. 5A through FIG. 5C). The front sight 301 is shown through the rear sight 303. The iris diaphragm 410 changes the size of the iris opening, thus controlling the amount of light that comes through the adjustable aperture 400. The user is better able to perfectly center the front sight 301 and the target through the rear sight 303.Use of Sight with Adjustable Aperture

[0106] To use an embodiment of a sight with an adjustable aperture 400 to improve aiming, the user 100 would aim (e.g. draw the bow 102 as shown in FIG. 1A) in a current lighting condition (such as sun 740 or bright background as illustrated in FIG. 3B or a shaded background as illustrated in FIG. 3C). It is difficult to precisely aim; for example, as illustrated in FIG. 3B and FIG. 3C, the bow sight 110 is not precisely centered in the peep 120. While looking through the peep 120 (as shown in FIG. 1A) or rear sight 303, the user determines how much light is passing through the bow sight 110 or front sight 301. In other words, the user determines if amount of light is too much or too little for the current size of the pupil in the aiming eye of the user. The user then adjusts the adjustable aperture 400, so that a thin portion of the sight (110 or 301) appears in the user's peripheral vision, forming an apparent eclipse 150. Then while focusing on a target and bow sight 110 or front sight 301, the user 100 centers the apparent eclipse 150 with the peep 120 or rear sight 303 using peripheral vision. When the user perceives an equally thin eclipse 150, the user knows the aim is precise.Torque Correction

[0107] Another problem archers have with aiming is that the bow is rotated left or right by the position of the wrist while holding the bow. Some embodiments of the present invention provide a means and method for visually allowing the user to see the torque of the bow and to align the bow (and the attached bow sight and arrow) toward the target.

[0108] FIG. 11A illustrates a bow sight 110 having a vertical hair 902 aligned adjacent to the bow sight pins, such as such as twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260.

[0109] FIG. 11B shows a three-quarter view of the bow sight 110 with an adjustable aperture 400, vertical hair 902, and a torque pin 904. This embodiment of the adjustable aperture 400 is shown as an iris diaphragm 410 (see FIG. 4A). A cutout in the housing shows the alignment of the vertical hair 902 over the illuminated ends of the bow sight pins, such as such as twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260.

[0110] The torque pin 904 is held in place some distance from the vertical hair 902 by a pin bracket 908.

[0111] FIG. 11C shows the alignment of the aiming end of the torque pin 904 with the vertical hair 902. The torque pin 904 is threaded and is adjusted by turning the torque pin adjuster 906 (shown as a wing nut) on the other end of the torque pin 904. When aiming, the aiming end of the torque pin should visually appear to touch the vertical hair 902. If not, the bow and arrow are torqued left or right. This misalignment in aim may cause the arrow to miss the target.

[0112] The user can properly align the bow 102, bow sight 110, and the arrow 104, by straighten the wrist until the aiming end of the torque pin visually appears to touch the vertical hair 902.AdvantagesAccurate

[0113] The adjustable aperture provides for accurate adjustment of aim in different or changing lighting conditions. The various illuminated rings, arcs, and fiber optic ends enhances the user's ability to perceive proper center on center alignment. The torque pin and vertical hair enhances the user's ability to perceive horizontal rotation (or torque) of the bow and arrow. The level enhances the user's ability to perceive vertical rotation of the bow to correct the position of the aiming pins relative to the impact of gravity on the trajectory of the arrow.Effective

[0114] Because the bow and gun sights with adjustable apertures provide more accurate and consistent aim, each shot taken will be more effective.Confidence

[0115] The invention gives the user confidence that there is accurate. This increased confidence will improve the user's performance and satisfaction.Increased Safety

[0116] More accurate aiming increases safety.Lightweight

[0117] The disclosed bow sights and gun sights are lightweight adding little additional weight to bows and guns, which are often carried long distances in rough terrain.Easy to Transport and Use

[0118] The invention embodiments are easy to transport and use.CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATION, AND SCOPE

[0119] Accordingly, the reader will see that the novel sights with adjustable aperture provide greater accuracy, effectiveness, and safety.

[0120] While the above descriptions contain several specifics these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as examples of some of the preferred embodiments thereof. Many other variations are possible. Different means and methods of adjusting the aperture could be used. The rear sight could comprise an adjustable aperture. The variations could be used without departing from the scope and spirit of the novel features of the present invention.

[0121] Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined not by the illustrated embodiments, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0068]The following detailed description of the invention references the accompanying drawings that illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. The embodiments are intended to describe aspects of the invention in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments can be utilized, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Bow Sight with Adjustable Aperture

[0069]FIG. 4A illustrates a bow sight 110 with an adjustable aperture 400. FIG. 4A shows an adjustable aperture 400 embodiment with an iris diaphragm 410 comprising a plurality of iris leaves 412. One end of each iris leaf 412 pivots at an anchor hole which holds the leaf pivot 419. Th...

PRIOR ARTFiring Device and Projectiles

[0001] Firing devices such as bows, crossbows, rifles, pistols, other guns, and artillery have been used for sport, hunting, law enforcement, and military. Each firing device is used to launch a projectile such as an arrow, dart, bullet, ball, or explosive shell along a projectile trajectory.

[0002] FIG. 1A shows a user (in this case, an archer) 100 with a bow 102 with a bow sight 110 and an arrow 104. The bow sight 110 comprises pins adjusted e.g., for twenty yards, forty yards, and sixty yards, namely a twenty-yard pin, a forty-yard pin, and a sixty-yard pin, respectively (as shown in FIG. 2A). FIG. 1A also shows a bow string sight (peep) 120 in the bow string above the arrow 104 aligned with the user's eye. Arrows 104 are typically shot from a bow 102 using the arms to aim and sight by aligning the bow string sight (peep) 120 and bow sight 110 with the target. Once the user's eye, peep 120, and bow sight 110 pin are aligned with the target are all aligned the archer releases the arrow 104.

[0003] FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C show details of the bow string sight (peep) 120 such as peep grooves 122 which hold the peep 120 in place in the string.

[0004] FIG. 1D shows a rifle 300 with front sight 301 and a rear sight 303. Rifle balls and / or bullets are typically shot from a gun using the arms to aim and sight by aligning the gun front sight 301 and rear sight 303 with the target.Ballistic Trajectory and Bow Sight Pins

[0005] Arrows, spears, balls, bullets, and shells when fired follow a ballistic trajectory. Such projectiles, which are not self-propelled, move through air according to a generally parabolic curve due primarily to the effects of gravity.

[0006] To adjust the aim to account for the ballistic trajectory of an arrow, an archer 100 may align one or more bow sight 110 pins at known distances, such as twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260 shown for example in FIG. 2A.Changing Light Conditions and Eye Constriction and Dilation

[0007] In outdoor settings, there are constantly changing light conditions. The sun moves through the sky, coming up in the east in the morning and going down in the west in the evening. Fog or passing clouds may change the amount of light that enters the user's eye. Targets change position or show up from different angles causing the user to aim in different positions relative to the sun. Some targets may have a dark background such as a tree or mountain. Other targets may have a light background such a sandy hillside and shiny grass. As these changes take place the amount of light entering the eye changes. When exposed to more light, the eye naturally constricts as the pupils shrink to limit the amount of light entering the eyes. When exposed to less light, the pupils dilate to increase the amount entering the eye. The image becomes blurred making it harder to aim.

[0008] FIG. 3A illustrates the visual distortion or glare caused by bright light, e.g. sun 740, behind a bow sight 110.

[0009] FIG. 3B illustrates the visual distortion or glare caused by bright light, e.g. sun 740, behind a bow sight 110 as further seen through a peep 120. The bright light makes it more difficult to precisely center bow sight 110 in the center of the peep 120.

[0010] FIG. 3B illustrates a situation where the bow sight 110 is not perfectly centered inside the peep 120, for example, there is a gap which is larger at the right edge. This misalignment in aim may cause the arrow to miss the target.

[0011] FIG. 3C illustrates the visual challenge caused by limited light, e.g. a target under a shady tree 700 or at dusk, behind a bow sight 110 as seen through a peep 120. Several obstacles 700, including a branch 710 and a bush 730 are shown behind the bow sight pins, e.g. twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260.

[0012] FIG. 3C illustrates a situation where the bow sight 110 is not perfectly centered inside the peep 120, for example there is a gap which is larger at the lower left edge where portions of the deer, bush 730, and tree obstacles 700 are seen. This misalignment in aim may cause the arrow to miss the target.Prior Attempts to Enhance Visibility of Bow Sight Housing

[0013] To aid the user seeing the bow sight housing in certain lighting conditions, some bow sights have been equipped with a concentric illuminated ring 130 on the housing of the bow sight 110 as shown in FIG. 2B.

[0014] More recently, bow sights 110 have been designed to have different color rings that snap onto the otherwise black housing of the bow sight 110 or have been provided with different colored rubber bands which fit over the black housing of the bow sight 110.

[0015] However, each of these prior attempts have a fixed size e.g. the size concentric illuminated ring 130 or the size of the colored ring, or the size of the housing. These help the user in certain conditions but are not effective when lighting conditions change as shown in FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B, and FIG. 3C, and as discussed above.

[0016] What is needed are devices and methods for adjusting the aperture of a sight such that the size of the front sight (such as the bow sight 110 or gun front sight 301) adjusts the amount of light coming through it to the rear sight (such as the peep 120 or gun rear sight 303) and ultimately in the eye of the user.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0017] In outdoor settings, there are constantly changing light conditions. When exposed to more light, the eye naturally constricts as the pupils shrink to limit the amount of light entering the eyes. When exposed to less light, the pupils dilate to increase the amount entering the eye.

[0018] The present invention relates to sights with adjustable apertures. The present invention includes devices and methods for adjusting the aperture of a sight so that the size of the front sight (such as the bow sight 110 or gun front sight 301) adjusts the amount of light coming through it to the rear sight (such as the peep 120 or gun rear sight 303) and ultimately in the eye of the user.

[0019] By thus adjusting the light entering the front sight, the archer can more accurately align the center of the peep 120 with the center of the bow sight 110, and the gun user is able to more accurately align the center of the rear sight 303 with the center of the front sight 301.

[0020] The present invention also includes embodiments where the adjustable aperture is on the rear sight 303.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The present invention solves the above-described problems and provides a distinct advance in the art of bow sights and fixed gun sights.

[0022] In some bow sight embodiments, the front bow sight has an adjustable aperture.

[0023] In some gun sight embodiments, the gun front sight has an adjustable aperture.

[0024] In other gun sight embodiments, the gun rear sight has an adjustable aperture.

[0025] Some embodiments of adjustable apertures comprise an iris diaphragm, where the iris leaves are controlled by an aperture control.

[0026] Some embodiments of adjustable apertures comprise a compression aperture, where fingers are compressed by a compressing ring.

[0027] Some embodiments of adjustable apertures comprise a compression donut, where a flexible donut shaped ring is compress by a compressing ring.

[0028] Some embodiments further comprise illuminated elements, such as fiber optics, glow rings, or LED segments.

[0029] Some embodiments further comprise a level.

[0030] Some embodiments further comprise a vertical hair and a torque pin held in place by a pin bracket.Objects and Advantages

[0031] Accordingly, the present invention provides the following objects and advantages:

[0032] To provide devices for adjusting the aperture of a sight so that the size of the front sight (such as the bow sight or gun front sight) so that the size of the front sight adjusts the amount of light coming through it to the rear sight (such as a peep or gun rear sight) and ultimately in the eye of the user.

[0033] To provide methods for adjusting the aperture of a sight so that the size of the front sight (such as the bow sight or gun front sight) so that the size of the front sight adjusts the amount of light coming through it to the rear sight (such as a peep or gun rear sight) and ultimately in the eye of the user.

[0034] To provide a bow sight with an adjustable aperture.

[0035] To provide a bow sight with an iris diaphragm aperture.

[0036] To provide a bow sight with a compression aperture.

[0037] To provide a gun front sight with an adjustable aperture.

[0038] To provide a gun rear sight with an adjustable aperture.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0039] A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein:

[0040] FIG. 1A illustrates an archer with a bow with a bow sight and a bow string sight (peep);

[0041] FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C illustrate details of a bow string sight (peep);

[0042] FIG. 1D illustrates a rifle with a front sight and a rear sight;

[0043] FIG. 2A illustrates a bow sight with pins;

[0044] FIG. 2B illustrates a bow sight with a concentric illuminated ring;

[0045] FIG. 3A illustrates the visual distortion or glare caused by bright light behind a bow sight;

[0046] FIG. 3B illustrates the visual distortion or glare caused by bright light behind a bow sight as seen through a peep;

[0047] FIG. 3C illustrates the visual challenge caused by limited light behind a bow sight as seen through a peep;

[0048] FIG. 4A illustrates a bow sight with an adjustable aperture;

[0049] FIG. 4B shows a three-quarter view of the bow sight with an adjustable aperture;

[0050] FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B, and FIG. 5C illustrate the components and operation of an adjustable aperture comprising an iris diaphragm;

[0051] FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C illustrate the components and operation of an adjustable aperture comprising a compression aperture;

[0052] FIG. 7 illustrates bow sight having an adjustable aperture comprising a flexible compression donut;

[0053] FIG. 8A illustrates bow sight having an adjustable aperture comprising an iris diaphragm having a glow edge;

[0054] FIG. 8B shows an embodiment of an adjustable aperture comprising a plurality of fingers, each finger comprising fiber optic end;

[0055] FIG. 8C illustrates a ring for a bow sight formed from a florescent optic tube;

[0056] FIG. 8D illustrates a ring for a bow sight comprising a plurality fiber optic ends;

[0057] FIG. 9A illustrates a bow sight having a ring comprising a glow ring;

[0058] FIG. 9B illustrates a bow sight having a ring comprising a plurality of glow arcs and a plurality of fiber optic ends;

[0059] FIG. 9C illustrates a bow sight having a ring comprising a plurality of glow arcs 860 and two sets of fiber optic ends;

[0060] FIG. 9D illustrates a bow sight having a ring comprising a plurality of triangle pointers;

[0061] FIG. 9E illustrates a bow sight having a ring comprising a glow ring and a dark ring;

[0062] FIG. 9F illustrates a bow sight having a ring comprising a glow ring comprising a plurality of concentric LED rings outside of a dark ring 160;

[0063] FIG. 9G illustrates an apparent eclipse as visualized by a user's pupil of a portion of a bow sight ring seen through a peep;

[0064] FIG. 10A illustrates an aiming system for a gun with an adjustable aperture on the front sight;

[0065] FIG. 10B illustrates an aiming system for a gun with an adjustable aperture on the rear sight; and

[0066] FIG. 11A through FIG. 11C illustrates a bow sight having a vertical hair and an adjustable torque pin;

[0067] The drawing figures do not limit the present invention to the specific embodiments disclosed and described herein. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the invention.REFERENCE NUMERALS IN DRAWINGS100archer or user102bow104arrow110bow sight120bow string sight (peep)122peep grooves130concentric illuminated ring132a-cLED ring140ring150eclipse160dark ring220twenty-yard pin240forty-yard pin260sixty-yard pin300rifle301front sight303rear sight400adjustable aperture410iris diaphragm412iris leaf (leaves)413leaf pin414aperture control416slotted disc418front disc419leaf pivot620compression aperture630compression base632base threads640a-nfinger642ring threads644grips650compression ring700obstacles710branch730bush740sun790compression donut810glow edge820a-nfiber optic end830fiber optic filament840optic tube850glow ring860glow arc902vertical hair904torque pin906torque pin adjuster908pin bracket910a-ctriangle pointer984levelDETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0068] The following detailed description of the invention references the accompanying drawings that illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. The embodiments are intended to describe aspects of the invention in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments can be utilized, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.Bow Sight with Adjustable Aperture

[0069] FIG. 4A illustrates a bow sight 110 with an adjustable aperture 400. FIG. 4A shows an adjustable aperture 400 embodiment with an iris diaphragm 410 comprising a plurality of iris leaves 412. One end of each iris leaf 412 pivots at an anchor hole which holds the leaf pivot 419. The position of each of the iris leaves 412 are controlled with an aperture control 414. The iris diaphragm 410 changes the size of the iris opening, thus controlling the amount of light that comes through the adjustable aperture 400. The pins of the bow sight 110, such as twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260 (FIG. 2A), are visualized by the user through the iris opening.

[0070] FIG. 4B shows a three-quarter view of the bow sight 110 with an adjustable aperture 400 of FIG. 4A. The iris diaphragm 410 comprising a plurality of iris leaves 412. One end of each iris leaf 412 pivots at an anchor hole which holds the leaf pivot 419. The position of each of the iris leaves 412 are controlled with an aperture control 414.

[0071] This three-quarter view shows the structure of the bow sight 110, including coils of fiber optic filament 830. The fiber optic filaments 830 collect light from the environment. Fiber optic filaments 830 may be used to illuminate the point on one of the bow sight pins: for example, a first fiber optic filament 830 may be used to illuminate the point on the twenty-yard pin 220; a second fiber optic filament 830 may be used to illuminate the point on the forty-yard pin 240; and a third fiber optic filament 830 may be used to illuminate the point on the sixty-yard pin 260. As will be disclosed below regarding other embodiments, other fiber optic filaments may be used in novel ways.Adjustable Aperture with Iris Diaphragm

[0072] FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B, and FIG. 5C illustrate the components and operation of an adjustable aperture 400 comprising an iris diaphragm 410.

[0073] FIG. 5A shows a curved iris leaf 412 having a leaf pin 413 centered in one end and a leaf pivot 419 centered in the other end.

[0074] FIG. 5B shows a slotted disc 416 of the adjustable aperture 400 which receives and determines the track of the leaf pin 413 of each iris leaf 412. The slotted disc 416 is not visible in FIG. 4A nor FIG. 4B as it is inside the housing. For clarity only one leaf is shown; however, when fully assembled there is one leaf 412 for each slot. The leaves 412 are stacked to form partially overlapping layers. As the aperture control 414 rotates the slotted disc 416, the leaf pin 413 of each of the iris leaves 412 slides in the respective slot and changes the position of the respective iris leaf 412.

[0075] FIG. 5C shows the front disc 418 of the adjustable aperture 400 which holds and anchors the other end of each iris leaf 412, which pivots at its respective leaf pivot 419.Adjustable Aperture with Compression Aperture

[0076] FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C illustrate the components and operation of an adjustable aperture 400 comprising a compression aperture 620.

[0077] FIG. 6A shows an embodiment of a compression base 630 of a compression aperture 620. The orientation of the compression base 630 is shown bow sight pins, such as twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260 (FIG. 2A). The compression base 630 comprises a plurality of fingers (640a-n).

[0078] FIG. 6B shows a side view of the compression base 630 of FIG. 6A, showing the spacing and shape of each of the plurality of fingers 640. The compressing base 630 comprises base threads 632.

[0079] FIG. 6C shows an embodiment of a compression ring 650 comprising ring threads 642 and grips 644.

[0080] The compression ring 650 (FIG. 6C) slides over the fingers 640 of the compression base 630 (FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B) and adjustably screws down on the compressing the fingers. The ring threads 642 of the compression ring 650 engage the base threads 632 of the compression base 630. As the compression ring 650 moves toward the compression base 630, the fingers 640 move closer together reducing the size of opening in the aperture. When unscrewed, the compression ring 650 moves away from the compression base 630 allow the fingers 640 to open out increasing the size of the opening in the aperture. The grips 644 enable the user to more finely turn the compression ring 650 and thus to more finely adjust the size of the opening of the aperture.Adjustable Aperture with Compression Donut

[0081] FIG. 7 illustrates bow sight 110 having an adjustable aperture 400 comprising a flexible compression donut 790. The bow sight 110 comprises at least one bow sight pin, such as twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260 (FIG. 2A).

[0082] The compression donut 790 may be made from a flexible material such as rubber, synthetic rubber, or silicon.

[0083] In one embodiment, the compression donut 790 is compressed by screwing down a threaded compression cap (not shown) onto a base having base threads 632 (similar to the compression base 630 of FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B). As the compression cap tightens, the compression donut 790 flattens reducing the size of the opening. As the compression cap loosens, the compression donut 790 returns toward its resting shape, increasing the size of opening.Illuminating the Opening in the Adjustable Aperture

[0084] The user's ability to align the bow sight 110 with the peep 120 is enhanced by illuminating the opening in the adjustable aperture 400.

[0085] FIG. 8A illustrates bow sight 110 having an adjustable aperture 400 comprising an iris diaphragm 410 having a glow edge 810. In this embodiment, a central edge of each of plurality of iris leaves 412 comprises a glow edge 810. When the aperture control 414 is moved, visible portions glow edges 810 of the plurality of iris leaves 412 changes in collective circumference.

[0086] In one embodiment, the glow edge 810 is painted with glow-in-the-dark paint.

[0087] FIG. 8B shows an embodiment of an adjustable aperture 400 comprising a compression base 630 of a compression aperture 620 (FIG. 6A). The compression base 630 comprises a plurality of fingers (640a-n), similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6A. In this embodiment, each finger 640 comprises a channel for a fiber optic, where fiber optic end 820 illuminates the central edge of each finger 640. The example shown in FIG. 8B comprises a plurality of fingers 640a-n with a plurality of fiber optic ends 820a-n.

[0088] Similar to the operation of the embodiment in FIG. 6A, when the compression ring 650 (FIG. 6C) moves toward the compression base 630, the fingers 640 move closer together reducing the size of opening in the aperture, and reducing the circumference of the circle of fiber optic ends 820. When unscrewed, the compression ring 650 moves away from the compression base 630 allow the fingers 640 to open out increasing the size of the opening in the aperture, and increasing the circumference of the circle of fiber optic ends 820.Illuminating the Bow Sight Ring

[0089] FIG. 8C illustrates a ring 140 for a bow sight 110 formed from a florescent optic tube 840. Looking down the inside of the optic tube 840, the far end is visualized inside the upper left of the ring 140. Similar to the fiber optic filament 830, the optic tube 840 absorbs light from the environment and illuminates the end of the optic tube 840, forming a glow edge 810.

[0090] In some embodiments the fingers 640 (shown in FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B) is made from a florescent optic tube 840 with slots cut to form the fingers.

[0091] FIG. 8D illustrates a ring 140 for a bow sight 110 comprising a plurality of fiber optic filament 830a-d, where each respective fiber optic end 820a-d, is configured to illuminate the inside edge of the ring 140. Similar to the bow sight pins which are illuminated by fiber optic filament 830 as discussed above regarding FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the fiber optic filament 830 collects light from the environment and is used here to illuminate the edge of the bow sight 110 ring 140 in embodiments of this invention.Embodiments of Illuminated Bow Sight Rings

[0092] FIG. 9A illustrates a bow sight 110 having a ring 140 comprising a glow ring 850. Unlike the prior art in FIG. 2B, the entire visible edge of the ring 140 is illuminated by glow ring 850. The portion of the ring 140 that is seen through the peep 120 can be perfectly aligned through an adjustable aperture 400 so that the user visualized a thin “eclipse” of the illuminated ring 140. The user can keep focus on the aiming pins (e.g. 220, 240, 260) and the target while perceiving with their peripheral version the perfectly aligned eclipse of light. When the adjustable aperture is adjusted for the instant lighting condition, and when the bow sight 110 is perfectly aligned, the visible edge of the illuminated ring 140 will appear with equal glow (an apparent eclipse 150, FIG. 9G) around the entire inner circumference of the peep 120.

[0093] In this embodiment, the glow ring 850 is formed from an optic tube 840 (FIG. 8C). Other embodiments are formed with florescent paint or by a light emitting diode (LED) 132.

[0094] FIG. 9A also illustrates the bow sight 110 having a level 984. The level allows the user to ensure that the bow 102 with the attached bow sight 110 is level with the earth such that the aiming pins (e.g. 220, 240, 260) are square with the arrow's trajectory. Misalignment of the bow while aiming may cause the arrow to miss the target.

[0095] To use an embodiment with illuminated bow sight ring to improve aiming, the user (in this case an archer) 100 would first draw the bow 102 as shown in FIG. 1A in a current lighting condition (such as sun 740 or bright background as illustrated in FIG. 3B or a shaded background as illustrated in FIG. 3C). It is difficult to precisely aim; as illustrated in FIG. 3B and FIG. 3C, the bow sight 110 is not precisely centered in the peep 120. While looking through the peep 120 attached to a string of the bow 102 as shown in FIG. 1A, the user determines how much light is passing through the bow sight 110. In other words, the user determines if amount of light is too much or too little for the current size of the pupil in the aiming eye of the user. The user then adjusts the adjustable aperture 400, so that a thin portion of the illuminated bow sight ring appears in the user's peripheral vision, forming an apparent eclipse 150 (see FIG. 9G). Then while focusing on a target and a pin of the bow sight 110, the user 100 centers the apparent eclipse 150 with the peep 120 using peripheral vision as shown in FIG. 9G. The use of other embodiments discussed below is similar.

[0096] FIG. 9B illustrates a bow sight 110 having a ring 140 comprising a plurality of glow arcs 860a-d on the outside of the ring 140 and a plurality of fiber optic ends 820a-d shown spaced at the ends of the glow arcs 860 on the inner edge of the ring 140, in a dark ring 160. The user can keep focus on the aiming pins (e.g. 220, 240, 260) and the target while perceiving with their peripheral version the perfectly aligned eclipse of light of the glow arcs 860a-d or the fiber optic ends 820a-d. A level 984 is also shown.

[0097] FIG. 9C illustrates a bow sight 110 having a ring 140 comprising a plurality of glow arcs 860a-d on the center of the ring 140, a plurality of fiber optic ends 820a-d shown spaced at the ends of the glow arcs 860 on the inner edge of the ring 140, and a plurality of fiber optic ends 820e-h shown spaced at the middle of respective glow arcs 860 on the outer edge of the ring 140. The user can keep focus on the aiming pins (e.g. 220, 240, 260) and the target while perceiving with their peripheral version the perfectly aligned eclipse of light of the glow arcs 860a-d or the fiber optic ends 820a-h. A level 984 is also shown.

[0098] FIG. 9D illustrates a bow sight 110 having a ring 140 comprising a plurality of triangle pointers 910a-c spaced around the ring 140. The user can keep focus on the aiming pins (e.g. 220, 240, 260) and the target while perceiving with their peripheral version the perfectly aligned light points of the triangle pointers 910. A level 984 is also shown.

[0099] FIG. 9E illustrates a bow sight 110 having a ring 140 comprising a glow ring 850 and a dark ring 160. The other elements 220, 240, 260, 984 are the same as described in FIG. 9A.

[0100] FIG. 9F illustrates a bow sight 110 having a ring 140 comprising a glow ring 850 comprising a plurality of concentric LED rings 132a-c outside of a dark ring 160. The other elements 220, 240, 260, 984 are the same as described in FIG. 9A.

[0101] In one embodiment each of the plurality of concentric LED rings 132 are selectively illuminated. The user can select one or more LED rings to be illuminated, thus affecting the apparent eclipse.

[0102] In another embodiment intensity of each of the plurality of concentric LED rings 132 are selectively varied. The user can select the level of illumination of each LED, thus affecting the apparent eclipse.

[0103] FIG. 9G illustrates an apparent eclipse 150 as visualized by a user's pupil of bow sight 110 ring (shown, for example, as a glow ring 850 with a dark ring 160) seen through a peep 120;Gun Sights with Adjustable Aperture

[0104] FIG. 10A illustrates an aiming system for a gun with an adjustable aperture 400 on the front sight 301. FIG. 10A shows a front sight 301 having an iris diaphragm 410 (similar to the one described in references to FIG. 4A and FIG. 5A through FIG. 5C). The front sight 301 is shown through the rear sight 303. The iris diaphragm 410 changes the size of the iris opening, thus controlling the amount of light that comes through the adjustable aperture 400. The user is better able to perfectly center the front sight 301 and the target through the rear sight 303.

[0105] FIG. 10B illustrates an aiming system for a gun with an adjustable aperture 400 on the rear sight 303. FIG. 10B shows a rear sight 303 having an iris diaphragm 410 (similar to the one described in references to FIG. 4A and FIG. 5A through FIG. 5C). The front sight 301 is shown through the rear sight 303. The iris diaphragm 410 changes the size of the iris opening, thus controlling the amount of light that comes through the adjustable aperture 400. The user is better able to perfectly center the front sight 301 and the target through the rear sight 303.Use of Sight with Adjustable Aperture

[0106] To use an embodiment of a sight with an adjustable aperture 400 to improve aiming, the user 100 would aim (e.g. draw the bow 102 as shown in FIG. 1A) in a current lighting condition (such as sun 740 or bright background as illustrated in FIG. 3B or a shaded background as illustrated in FIG. 3C). It is difficult to precisely aim; for example, as illustrated in FIG. 3B and FIG. 3C, the bow sight 110 is not precisely centered in the peep 120. While looking through the peep 120 (as shown in FIG. 1A) or rear sight 303, the user determines how much light is passing through the bow sight 110 or front sight 301. In other words, the user determines if amount of light is too much or too little for the current size of the pupil in the aiming eye of the user. The user then adjusts the adjustable aperture 400, so that a thin portion of the sight (110 or 301) appears in the user's peripheral vision, forming an apparent eclipse 150. Then while focusing on a target and bow sight 110 or front sight 301, the user 100 centers the apparent eclipse 150 with the peep 120 or rear sight 303 using peripheral vision. When the user perceives an equally thin eclipse 150, the user knows the aim is precise.Torque Correction

[0107] Another problem archers have with aiming is that the bow is rotated left or right by the position of the wrist while holding the bow. Some embodiments of the present invention provide a means and method for visually allowing the user to see the torque of the bow and to align the bow (and the attached bow sight and arrow) toward the target.

[0108] FIG. 11A illustrates a bow sight 110 having a vertical hair 902 aligned adjacent to the bow sight pins, such as such as twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260.

[0109] FIG. 11B shows a three-quarter view of the bow sight 110 with an adjustable aperture 400, vertical hair 902, and a torque pin 904. This embodiment of the adjustable aperture 400 is shown as an iris diaphragm 410 (see FIG. 4A). A cutout in the housing shows the alignment of the vertical hair 902 over the illuminated ends of the bow sight pins, such as such as twenty-yard pin 220, forty-yard pin 240, sixty-yard pin 260.

[0110] The torque pin 904 is held in place some distance from the vertical hair 902 by a pin bracket 908.

[0111] FIG. 11C shows the alignment of the aiming end of the torque pin 904 with the vertical hair 902. The torque pin 904 is threaded and is adjusted by turning the torque pin adjuster 906 (shown as a wing nut) on the other end of the torque pin 904. When aiming, the aiming end of the torque pin should visually appear to touch the vertical hair 902. If not, the bow and arrow are torqued left or right. This misalignment in aim may cause the arrow to miss the target.

[0112] The user can properly align the bow 102, bow sight 110, and the arrow 104, by straighten the wrist until the aiming end of the torque pin visually appears to touch the vertical hair 902.AdvantagesAccurate

[0113] The adjustable aperture provides for accurate adjustment of aim in different or changing lighting conditions. The various illuminated rings, arcs, and fiber optic ends enhances the user's ability to perceive proper center on center alignment. The torque pin and vertical hair enhances the user's ability to perceive horizontal rotation (or torque) of the bow and arrow. The level enhances the user's ability to perceive vertical rotation of the bow to correct the position of the aiming pins relative to the impact of gravity on the trajectory of the arrow.Effective

[0114] Because the bow and gun sights with adjustable apertures provide more accurate and consistent aim, each shot taken will be more effective.Confidence

[0115] The invention gives the user confidence that there is accurate. This increased confidence will improve the user's performance and satisfaction.Increased Safety

[0116] More accurate aiming increases safety.Lightweight

[0117] The disclosed bow sights and gun sights are lightweight adding little additional weight to bows and guns, which are often carried long distances in rough terrain.Easy to Transport and Use

[0118] The invention embodiments are easy to transport and use.CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATION, AND SCOPE

[0119] Accordingly, the reader will see that the novel sights with adjustable aperture provide greater accuracy, effectiveness, and safety.

[0120] While the above descriptions contain several specifics these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as examples of some of the preferred embodiments thereof. Many other variations are possible. Different means and methods of adjusting the aperture could be used. The rear sight could comprise an adjustable aperture. The variations could be used without departing from the scope and spirit of the novel features of the present invention.

[0121] Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined not by the illustrated embodiments, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0068]The following detailed description of the invention references the accompanying drawings that illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. The embodiments are intended to describe aspects of the invention in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments can be utilized, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Bow Sight with Adjustable Aperture

[0069]FIG. 4A illustrates a bow sight 110 with an adjustable aperture 400. FIG. 4A shows an adjustable aperture 400 embodiment with an iris diaphragm 410 comprising a plurality of iris leaves 412. One end of each iris leaf 412 pivots at an anchor hole which holds the leaf pivot 419. Th...

Claims

1. A sight having an adjustable aperture.

2. The sight of claim 1, configured to mount on a bow, forming a bow sight,wherein bow sight comprises at least one pin.

3. The sight of claim 1, configured to mount on a gun, forming a gun sight.

4. The bow sight of claim 2,wherein the adjustable aperture comprises:a) an iris diaphragm comprising a plurality of iris leaves, andb) an aperture control for changing the position of each of the iris leaves,whereby a size of an opening is changed.

5. The bow sight of claim 4,wherein each of plurality of iris leaves comprises a leaf pin and a leaf pivot,wherein the adjustable aperture comprises:a) a front disc having holes for anchoring each of the plurality of leaf pivots, andb) a slotted disc, attached to the aperture control, having slots for receiving each of the plurality of leaf pin,wherein, when the aperture control is moved, the slotted disc rotates causing the position of each iris leaf to change.

6. The bow sight of claim 4,wherein a central edge of each of plurality of iris leaves comprises a glow edge,wherein, when the aperture control is moved, visible portions of the glow edges of the plurality of iris leaves changes in circumference.

7. The bow sight of claim 2,wherein the adjustable aperture comprises:a) a compression base, comprising a plurality of flexible fingers, and base threads, andb) a compression ring having ring threads configured to threadedly attach to the base threads,wherein when the compress ring moved closer to the compression base, the flexible fingers compress, whereby the size of an opening formed by the ends of the flexible fingers decreases,wherein when the compress ring moved farther to the compression base, the flexible fingers flex back, whereby the size of the opening formed by the ends of the flexible fingers increases,whereby a size of the opening is changed.

8. The bow sight of claim 7,wherein at least three of the flexible fingers are configured to receive a fiber optic filament and to hold a respective fiber optic end,wherein the position of each respective flexible finger is illuminatedwhereby the size of the opening is more visible in low light conditions.

9. The bow sight of claim 2, further comprising a glow ring,wherein the edge of the glow ring is visible through a peep,whereby a user perceived the center-on-center alignment of the bow sight and the peep.

10. The bow sight of claim 2, further comprising a ring,wherein the ring is configured to receive at least three fiber optic filaments and to hold each respective fiber optic end at the inner edge of the ring,wherein fiber optic ends are visible through a peep,whereby a user perceives the center-on-center alignment of the bow sight and the peep.

11. The bow sight of claim 2, further comprising a level,wherein while looking through the peep, the user sees the level,whereby a user perceives the horizontal alignment of the bow.

12. The bow sight of claim 2, further comprising a ring,wherein the ring comprises a dark ring on the inner edge of ring and at least three glow arcs on the outer edge of the ring,wherein the dark rink is configured to receive at least three fiber optic filaments and to hold each respective fiber optic end,wherein fiber optic ends in the dark ring and an apparent eclipse portion of the glow arcs are visible through a peep,whereby a user perceives the center-on-center alignment of the bow sight and the peep.

13. The bow sight of claim 2, further comprising a ring,wherein the ring comprises at least three glow arcs between the inner edge and the outer edge of the ring,wherein the inner edge of the ring is configured to receive a first set of at least three fiber optic filaments and to hold each respective fiber optic end,wherein the outer edge of the ring is configured to receive a second set of at least three fiber optic filaments and to hold each respective fiber optic end,wherein at least the first set of the fiber optic ends in the inner edge of the ring and an apparent eclipse portion of the glow arcs are visible through a peep,whereby a user perceives the center-on-center alignment of the bow sight and the peep.

14. The bow sight of claim 2, further comprising a ring,wherein the ring comprises at least three triangle pointers,wherein each triangle pointer is configured to point to the center of the bow sight,wherein at least an apparent eclipse portion of the triangle pointers are visible through a peep,whereby a user perceives the center-on-center alignment of the bow sight and the peep.

15. The bow sight of claim 14,wherein each triangle pointer comprises a plurality of triangles,wherein at least one of the plurality of triangles of each triangle pointer is illuminated,wherein the illuminated triangles are visible through a peep.

16. The bow sight of claim 2, further comprising a ring,wherein the ring comprises a dark ring on the inner edge of ring and an illuminated ring on the outer edge of the ring,wherein the dark ring and an apparent eclipse portion of the illuminated ring are visible through a peep,whereby a user perceives the center-on-center alignment of the bow sight and the peep.

17. The bow sight of claim 2, further comprising a ring,wherein the ring comprises:a) a dark ring on the inner edge of ring,b) a plurality of concentric LED rings outside the dark ring,wherein each of the concentric LED rings is selectively illuminated,wherein the user selects at least on LED ring to be illuminated,wherein the dark ring and an apparent eclipse portion of the selected LED ring are visible through a peep,whereby a user perceives the center-on-center alignment of the bow sight and the peep.

18. The bow sight of claim 2,wherein the adjustable aperture comprises:a) a compression base, comprising base threads,b) a compression donut, andc) a compression ring having ring threads configured to threadedly attach to the base threads,wherein when the compress ring moved closer to the compression base, the compression donut compresses, whereby the size of an opening formed by the compression donut decreases,wherein when the compress ring moved farther to the compression base, the compression donut flexes back, whereby the size of the opening formed by the compression donut increases,whereby a size of the opening is changed.

19. The bow sight of claim 2, further comprising a vertical hair and a torque pin,wherein the vertical hair, is align vertically with the bow and any bow sight pins,wherein the torque pin is configured to be held between the adjustable aperture and a position of the resting bow string,wherein while looking through the peep and focused on a target and the bow sight pins, the user sees an aiming end of the torque pin and its alignment with the vertical hair,whereby a user perceives the torque alignment of the bow.

20. A method of improved aiming using a bow sight of claim 2, comprising the steps ofa) drawing a bow under a current lighting condition,b) looking through a peep attached to a string of the bow,c) determining how much light is passing through the bow sight,d) adjusting the adjustable aperture such that inner edge of a ring on the bow sight appears as a thin eclipse,e) while focusing on a target and a pin of the bow sight, centering the apparent ellipse with the peep using peripheral vision.

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