LCoS Reticle Optics With Prism Beam-Path Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical devices like binoculars and rifle scopes face challenges in integrating various components efficiently, requiring high-quality image display under varying light conditions while managing limited battery life and ensuring simultaneous functionality without interference.
Innovation Solution
A remote optical device with a prism reversing system, a λ/4 plate, and a bonded LCoS display assembly, along with energy-saving features like a Field Programmable Gate Area (FPGA) and a power supply unit with a capacitor, allows for high-contrast image display and reduced energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical and electronic components are integrated into a compact device, then device functionality and versatility are improved, but device complexity and space management become worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing the display beam path components (display prism, LCoS display, illumination prism) within the existing optical observation beam path structure. The display prism is positioned to receive light from the LCoS display and direct it through the illumination prism into the observation beam path, effectively nesting the display system within the optical device housing without requiring separate external components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the intermediate image plane as a dimensional transition zone where the display beam path merges with the observation beam path. By localizing the transition region at a specific plane within the optical path, the patent adds a spatial dimension for beam path integration, allowing multiple functions (display and observation) to coexist without interfering with each other's operational space.
2Illumination intensity
If a high-quality optoelectronic display is used to ensure clear visibility under varying light conditions, then image quality is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action through the use of a λ/4 wave plate in the illumination path. The wave plate works in conjunction with polarizing beam splitters to create a shuttering effect that periodically controls light delivery to the LCoS display. This allows the display to be illuminated only when needed for specific functions (such as reticle illumination or data display), reducing continuous energy consumption while maintaining visibility when required.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the battery capacity is increased to extend operating time, then duration of action is improved, but device weight and volume increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces energy consumption through periodic action implemented by the λ/4 wave plate and polarizing beam splitter combination, which creates a shuttering effect. This allows the LCoS display to operate in intermittent modes rather than continuously, significantly reducing the total energy required from the battery and thereby extending operating time without increasing battery capacity, weight, or volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the optical path by introducing a λ/4 wave plate that alters the polarization state of light. This enables dynamic control of light transmission to the display, allowing the system to switch between different operational states (display active/inactive) and optimize energy consumption based on operational requirements, thereby extending battery life without physical battery upgrades.
4Ease of operation
If multiple manipulation functions are enabled simultaneously, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and interference between functions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates different manipulation functions into distinct spatial and functional dimensions. The display beam path (for reticle and data display) and the observation beam path (for target viewing) operate in parallel dimensions that merge at the intermediate image plane. This dimensional separation allows simultaneous operation of display functions and observation functions without mutual interference, as each function has its dedicated beam path until the final superposition point.
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 device provides high-quality, uniformly contrasted images with reduced energy use, enabling simultaneous component functionality and extended operation without battery interruptions, enhancing user-friendliness and practicality.
Implementation Method 1
A wave plate, formed by a λ/4 plate, is positioned between the illumination prism and the LCoS display. This offers the advantage of a high yield of polarized light required to illuminate the LCoS display.
Implementation Method 2
an optoelectronic display device for displaying variable data or a target mark, wherein an image of the variable data or the target mark is projected into the observation beam path by a display beam path of the display device, and wherein the image of the variable data or the target mark is further generated by an LCoS display
Implementation Method 3
a prism reversing system arranged between an objective and an eyepiece, and a region of the transition of the display beam path into the observation beam path is localized at a prism of the prism reversing system
Data Source
Figure 1~7
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a remote optical device (1) with a lens (31), with an inverting system (33, 41) and with an eyepiece (3) through which an observation beam path (8) is formed, and with a reticle for aiming at a target, and with an optoelectronic display device (4) for displaying variable data or a target mark, wherein a display beam path (7) of the display device (4) runs at least partially in the observation beam path (8) for displaying the distant object, and wherein the display device (4) comprises an LCoS display (5).