Integrated Viewing Optic With First-Focal-Plane Digital Overlays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Riflescopes require multiple external devices for functionalities like laser rangefinding, ballistic calculations, and night vision, increasing complexity and weight, and existing systems integrate these features in the second focal plane, limiting accuracy and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A viewing optic with an integrated display system that projects digital information into the first focal plane, combining target and generated images simultaneously, allowing for seamless integration of reticles, range measurements, and wind information without affecting accuracy across magnification settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple external devices are used for laser rangefinding, ballistic calculations, and night vision, then functional capabilities are improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple previously external functions (laser rangefinding, ballistic calculations, night vision, reticle display) into a single integrated optic system. The display system combines digital information overlays with the optical viewing path, merging multiple device functions into one unified platform, thereby reducing overall system complexity and weight while maintaining full functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated optic serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides magnified target viewing, displays digital reticles and ballistic data, performs laser rangefinding, and supports night vision operations. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate external devices, addressing the contradiction by improving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If digital information is projected into the second focal plane, then integration is achieved, but accuracy and flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of projecting digital information into the traditional second focal plane, the patent inverts the approach by displaying digital reticles and information in the first focal plane. This inversion allows the digital overlays to remain stationary and accurately aligned with the target across all magnification settings, thereby improving both integration and accuracy simultaneously
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple external devices are attached to the viewing optic, then functional features are improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple previously separate devices (rangefinder, ballistic computer, night vision, reticle system) into a single integrated optic assembly. By merging these functions into one unit rather than attaching multiple external devices, the system achieves full functionality while significantly reducing total weight
4Measurement precision
If shooter must process information from multiple external devices in real time, then accurate shot placement is achieved, but time to engagement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated optic pre-calculates and displays all necessary ballistic information, reticle adjustments, and target data directly in the shooter's field of view. By preparing and presenting all decision-making information upfront within the optical system, the shooter can make accurate shot placements without the time-consuming process of consulting multiple external devices
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 simultaneous viewing of digital overlays and target images in the first focal plane, reducing complexity, weight, and time to engagement, while maintaining accuracy and providing a failsafe traditional reticle option.
Implementation Method 1
The viewing optic further includes a beam combiner located between the objective system and the first focal plane
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a viewing optic. In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having an integrated display system. In one embodiment, the disclosure relates to a viewing optic having an integrated display system for generating images that are projected into the first focal plane of an optical system.