Electro-Optical Mount Assembly Shock Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weapon-mounted night vision and infrared sighting devices are prone to misalignment and damage due to shock from handling and firing, which can impair their functionality during high-stress missions.
Innovation Solution
A robust electro-optical sighting device mount assembly with an elastomer pad and adjustable fasteners that provide shock absorption and maintain optical axis alignment, using a combination of mechanical and elastomeric components to secure the device to the weapon, allowing for precise boresighting adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid mounting system is used to secure the sighting device, then the device is firmly attached to the weapon, but the device is susceptible to misalignment and damage from shock during handling and firing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by incorporating an elastomer pad between the sighting device and the mounting base. This elastomer pad is positioned in advance to absorb and dampen shock forces before they can cause misalignment or damage to the optical components during handling and firing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining rigid mounting components (aluminum base, steel fasteners) with elastomeric materials (shock-absorbing pad). This composite construction provides both the structural strength needed for secure attachment and the shock-absorbing properties necessary to maintain alignment stability under combat conditions
2Stability of the object's composition
If the sighting device is securely fastened to prevent movement, then attachment stability is improved, but adjustment capability for boresighting is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by designing a mounting system that transitions from an adjustable state to a fixed state. The fasteners can be loosened to allow boresighting adjustments, then tightened to secure the device in its final position. This dynamic capability enables both adjustment during setup and stability during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses segmentation by dividing the mounting system into distinct functional components: an adjustable base portion, a securing mechanism with fasteners, and a shock-absorbing elastomer pad. This segmentation allows the adjustment function to be separated from the stabilization function, enabling both boresighting capability and operational stability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively absorbs shock and maintains the optical axis alignment of the sighting device, ensuring reliable operation even under extreme conditions, such as high G-force impacts from firing and handling, thereby enhancing the accuracy and durability of the sighting system.
Implementation Method 1
A robust electro-optical sighting device mount assembly with an elastomer pad and adjustable fasteners that provide shock absorption
Data Source
AI summary
An electro-optical device includes a mount assembly that reduces shock imparted to internal electro-optical components.