Firearm Sight With Video Camera Tracking Projectile Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Firearms face challenges in achieving high accuracy due to various influences on projectile trajectory, such as distance, weather conditions, and gravity, which existing sighting mechanisms struggle to correct for effectively and efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A sighting apparatus equipped with a high-speed, ultra-high definition digital video camera and a digital computer that processes images to track projectile paths, calculate deviations, and automatically adjust the reticle's position on a video display to improve aiming accuracy by correcting for trajectory influences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional optical sighting mechanisms are used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision of projectile impact point deteriorates at increasing distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/optical sighting mechanisms with a digital imaging system consisting of a video camera, display screen, and computer processing unit. This substitution enables precise digital measurement and calculation of projectile impact points while maintaining operational simplicity through automated image processing and reticle positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the target field and projectile trajectory through video camera imaging. By capturing and processing images of the projectile's flight path and impact point, the system generates accurate digital representations that can be measured and analyzed without requiring complex mechanical measurement devices.
2Productivity
If manual correction for trajectory influences is implemented, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity of target acquisition deteriorates due to time-consuming adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated feedback by capturing video images of the projectile's actual flight path and impact point, comparing these observations with predicted trajectories, and automatically adjusting the reticle position on the display screen. This closed-loop feedback mechanism eliminates manual correction time while accounting for environmental factors such as wind, temperature, and distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary trajectory calculations and reticle positioning based on observed projectile behavior before subsequent shots are fired. By pre-adjusting the reticle position according to measured deviations in previous shots, the system prepares the sighting mechanism in advance for accurate target acquisition on future shots.
3Measurement precision
If automated trajectory correction is implemented, then the productivity of target acquisition is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensors and processing units
Solution Approach 1:
The video camera serves multiple functions: it captures the target field view, tracks the projectile's flight path, records the impact point location, and provides visual feedback to the operator. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized sensors and measurement devices, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A sighting apparatus for a firearm includes a video camera capable of capturing and tracking the path of a projectile The captured images are taken generally concurrently with the firing of the first projectile, and with the projectile reaching the target. A video display includes a reticle positioned at the center of the display to permit the user to aim the firearm by positioning the reticle over the target. A processor receives captured images from the camera. An output interface delivers information to the video display to enable the video display to display images of the target area. Software and a processor determine the flight path of the projectile and the point where the projectile impacts or passes by the intended target and adjusts for the variance between the two points by moving the image on the display.