Dual Beam Laser Module Alignment Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing laser aiming devices for firearms typically require large and bulky systems to achieve parallel alignment of multiple laser beams, making them impractical for use on small arms.

Innovation Solution

A dual-beam laser aiming module with a dual-laser alignment housing that includes a first and second cavity, each housing a laser assembly with a distinct beam axis, where the second beam axis is adjustably positioned to be parallel to the first axis using a four-point laser alignment mechanism, and a tactical flashlight assembly for multi-operational capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple laser devices are used to provide parallel alignment of multiple laser beams, then the aiming precision and functionality are improved, but the device size becomes large and bulky

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaiming precisionVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple laser devices (infrared laser and visible laser) into a single integrated housing unit. The first laser device and second laser device are both contained within the same housing, with their respective beam axes aligned parallel to each other and to the gun barrel centerline. This merging approach provides multiple laser beams for improved aiming precision while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for firearm mounting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The laser module provides multi-functionality by incorporating both an infrared laser device and a visible laser device in a single unit. The infrared laser can be used for aiming with night vision equipment, while the visible laser provides conventional aiming capability. This universal design allows the same device to serve multiple purposes across different operational conditions without requiring separate devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If adjustment mechanisms are added to align laser beams parallel to the gun barrel centerline, then the alignment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates adjustment mechanisms that allow the laser beams to be aligned parallel to the gun barrel centerline through a self-aligning process. The adjustment screws enable the user to manually adjust the position of the laser devices until the beams are properly aligned, with the system essentially adjusting itself through straightforward mechanical manipulation rather than requiring complex automated alignment systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS7726061B1Dual beam laser module
Publication Date: 2010.06.01 STEINER EOPTICS INC
  • US7726061B1 patent drawing
  • US7726061B1 patent drawing
  • US7726061B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A dual beam laser aiming module for a firearm has a dual-laser alignment housing with a first IR laser assembly in a first cavity and that provides a first beam axis. A second visible laser assembly is adjustably located in a second cavity to provide a second beam having an axis parallel to the first beam axis. A housing for the dual-laser alignment housing is adapted to be fixed to the firearm. The dual-laser alignment housing has a rounded exterior surface that interfaces with a corresponding rounded surface in the interior of the cavity of the laser housing. The dual-laser alignment housing is adjustably pivoted with respect to the laser housing with a four-point laser alignment mechanism to align the parallel first and second axes further in parallel to a centerline of a barrel of the firearm.