Long-Range Optical Device Target Approach via Geodetic Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing long-range optical devices rely on satellite-based GPS systems for position determination, which can be inaccurate due to local terrain restrictions and require a clear line of sight, leading to unreliable and energy-intensive operation, especially in hunting or observation scenarios where a protected position is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A method using existing long-range optical devices with observation optics, distance measuring devices, and orientation determination devices to calculate the distance and angle to a target by establishing a reference position and determining difference angles and distances, allowing for an immediate approach without additional navigation systems, even in situations where the starting point is not visible.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If satellite-based GPS systems are used for position determination, then absolute position can be obtained, but the system becomes dependent on clear line of sight to satellites which is often restricted in terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary reference position system that mediates between the user's current position and the target position. Instead of directly relying on satellite GPS which requires clear line of sight, the system uses a reference position (visible landmark or previously stored location) as an intermediary point. The user determines their position relative to this reference position using the optical device's built-in distance measuring and orientation determination capabilities, thereby avoiding direct dependence on satellite signals while still achieving accurate position determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the satellite-based mechanical/electromagnetic positioning system with an optical-based measurement system. Instead of using radio wave signals from satellites, the system employs the optical device's existing distance measuring device (e.g., laser range finder) and orientation determination device (e.g., compass, gyro) to calculate position through optical triangulation and geometric computations, substituting one physical measurement mechanism for another that works independently of satellite visibility.
2Loss of information
If position is determined continually by GPS, then map display can be updated, but energy consumption increases and autonomous operation time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by updating the map display only at specific intervals or trigger events rather than continuously. The system determines the user's position and updates the map display when the user reaches predetermined update points, when a significant position change occurs, or when the user manually requests an update. This periodic update approach maintains map display accuracy while significantly reducing the frequency of GPS operations and associated energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating and storing reference positions, update points, and route information before the user begins movement. The map display is prepared with anticipated position markers and update locations, allowing the system to determine whether an update is needed based on pre-established criteria rather than continuously querying GPS. This preliminary preparation reduces real-time computational requirements and energy usage during actual movement.
3Measurement precision
If additional navigation systems are added to long-range optical devices, then position determination capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making the long-range optical device perform multiple functions: it serves as both an observation/targeting device and a position determination/navigation device. The optical device's existing components (distance measuring device, orientation determination device, display unit) are utilized for dual purposes - maintaining its primary function of target observation while simultaneously enabling position determination and map display updates. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated navigation systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining position determination capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the navigation function with the optical device by integrating the position determination methodology into the existing optical device architecture. The control unit of the optical device coordinates both the observation functions and the navigation functions, combining the distance measuring device, orientation determination device, and map display into a unified system. This merging approach allows position determination capabilities to be added without requiring completely separate navigation hardware, thereby reducing device complexity and integration costs.
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 accurate and efficient target approach without reliance on satellite systems, allowing for continuous operation in restricted environments and reducing energy consumption by using existing device components for geodetic calculations and display of target information directly in the user's field of view.
Implementation Method 1
a distance measuring device which determines a distance to an objective
Implementation Method 2
an orientation determination device which determines an orientation of the long-range optical device
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a target approach method with a long-range optical device comprising an observation optics, a distance measuring device and an orientation determination device, wherein a reference position with a reference distance and a reference angle to the target at a target position is targeted at an intermediate position in an adaptation step by means of the observation optics, while a difference angle between an absolute direction and a reference direction of the long-range optical device is determined by means of the orientation determination device, and a difference distance from the intermediate position to the reference position is determined by means of the distance measuring device, and a target distance and a target angle are determined from the reference distance and the difference distance as well as from the reference angle and the difference angle by a geodetic calculation module.