Helmet-Mounted Night Vision System Modular Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current night vision systems coupled with cameras are bulky and immobile, making them unsuitable for hands-free operation in mobile surveillance scenarios, as they exceed two feet in length and cannot be adequately supported by the user, limiting their use in environments requiring mobility.
Innovation Solution
A helmet-mounted night vision system with an image intensifier, microphone, and solid-state memory that converts low light images into digital signals, allowing for wireless transmission or storage, featuring interchangeable lenses and a power management system to ensure continuous operation, and can be mounted on various gear or animals for hands-free use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a night vision scope is coupled to a digital camera to enable low light imaging, then image capture capability in low light conditions is improved, but the device size and weight increase excessively, making it impossible to carry and operate hands-free
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: the night vision scope remains as a distinct optical device, while the digital camera is a separate imaging unit. These modules can be operated independently or combined through coupling mechanisms, allowing the night vision capability to be added without permanently increasing the base device size. The segmentation allows for modular assembly where only the necessary components are attached during low light operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs coupling sleeves and attachment mechanisms that allow the digital camera to be nested within or attached to the night vision scope housing. The camera can be positioned within the scope's structural framework, utilizing the existing housing space rather than requiring a completely separate external mount. This nesting approach minimizes the overall external dimensions while maintaining both functional capabilities.
2Reliability
If a night vision scope is coupled to a digital camera, then low light imaging is enabled, but the combined device becomes immobile and cannot be used in environments requiring mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism between the night vision scope and digital camera is designed to be dynamic rather than fixed. The system allows for quick attachment and detachment of the camera module, enabling the operator to adapt the configuration based on operational requirements. The coupling sleeve and mounting hardware can be rapidly engaged or disengaged, transforming the system from a mobile configuration to a fixed imaging setup as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The night vision scope is designed with universal mounting interfaces that accommodate both standalone operation and camera coupling. The same housing and mounting structure support either the scope alone for mobile surveillance or the scope with camera attached for fixed imaging. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate devices, allowing a single platform to serve both mobile and fixed operational requirements.
3Measurement precision
If the night vision scope and camera are mounted on a tripod or fixed structure, then image stability is improved, but the system loses mobility and cannot be carried in environments requiring movement
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the stable imaging function (performed by the digital camera on a tripod when needed) from the mobile platform (the night vision scope that can be carried). The camera module can be independently mounted on a tripod or other stable structure when image stability is required, while the night vision scope remains available for mobile operations. This segmentation allows the stable imaging capability to be added without permanently sacrificing mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling sleeve and mounting hardware act as intermediary elements that enable the transition between mobile and fixed configurations. These intermediary components provide a stable mechanical interface that can be attached to tripods or other stable structures when needed, while also allowing for quick removal to restore mobility. The intermediary mounting system bridges the contradiction between stability and mobility by providing a reversible connection mechanism.
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
Enables lightweight, mobile, and hands-free operation in low light conditions, allowing operators to capture and transmit images without being hindered by the size and weight of the equipment, enhancing surveillance capabilities in special operations and law enforcement.
Implementation Method 1
The image sensor used in many digital cameras is a charge coupled device (CCD). Otherwise, a digital camera may use a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) device instead. Both CCD and CMOS image sensors convert light into electrons.
Data Source
AI summary
A night vision system includes an image sensor and circuitry coupled to a digital storage medium or transmitter that periodically samples a signal provided by the image sensor and stores the sampled image to be viewed in near real time or at a later date by a data analyst. The night vision system includes an imaging assembly with a casing surrounding an image intensifier and the associated circuitry along with a port for accepting a power and/or signal cable for providing power to the image assembly and image signal data to the digital storage medium. The system may further include a daytime camera and a switch for toggling the image signal data input to the digital storage medium between the daytime camera and the low light image sensor, as well as a transmission system for wirelessly transmitting signals.