Optical Observation Device with Integrated Navigation Display

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optical observation devices, such as binoculars with integrated laser range finding, require users to note measured data while in the observation position, limiting their ability to move towards a target without obstruction and making navigation cumbersome, especially in challenging environments like mountains.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a modular design with external actuating elements, including a target acquisition module and navigation module, featuring a microcomputer unit, GPS, electronic compass, inclination sensor, and display screen, allows for easy operation and utilization of measured data for navigation, with features like automatic data storage and energy-saving functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If users wear binoculars with integrated laser range finding for target observation, then precise range finding and target acquisition are enabled, but users cannot move towards the target without obstruction and must note measured data manually

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverange finding precisionVSAvoidnavigation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a visual copy of the measurement data by projecting it onto the ocular lens. The measured distance and directional information are displayed as visual overlays that appear superimposed on the target view, allowing users to navigate without manually noting data. This copying of information into the visual field resolves the contradiction by enabling both precise measurement and easy navigation simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary display system between the laser rangefinder and the user's eye. This intermediary projects measurement data and navigation information into the observation beam path, serving as a mediator that translates raw measurement data into actionable visual guidance. The intermediary system enables users to navigate towards targets without removing the binoculars from their eyes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If binoculars with integrated laser range finding are used for target acquisition, then distance measurement is possible, but measured data cannot be utilized for navigation without manual notes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistance measurement accuracyVSAvoidnavigation information availability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent copies navigation-relevant information directly into the user's visual field through the ocular lens. Distance measurements, directional data, and navigation instructions are projected as visual overlays that accompany the target view. This eliminates information loss by ensuring navigation data is always available and visible to the user during the navigation process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary processing of measurement data to extract navigation-relevant information before the user needs it. The system automatically calculates directional vectors, remaining distances, and navigation instructions based on the laser measurements, making this information ready for immediate use during navigation without requiring manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If external display screens are added to binoculars for navigation, then navigation functionality is improved, but device complexity and production costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenavigation functionalityVSAvoidoptical system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the navigation display function with the existing optical observation system by projecting data onto the ocular lens. Instead of adding a separate external display, the system combines navigation information presentation with the target observation function. This merging approach enables navigation functionality while avoiding the complexity and cost of separate display hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the existing ocular lens serve multiple functions: it transmits the target view image and simultaneously projects navigation information and measurement data. This multi-functionality approach allows the same optical component to handle both observation and navigation display, avoiding the need for additional dedicated display components and reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 users to efficiently acquire and navigate towards targets by displaying critical distance and directional data externally, reducing production costs and enhancing user utility, particularly in hunting and forestry applications, while preventing incorrect measurements and conserving energy.

Implementation Method 1

a laser transmitter (6) arranged between the objectives (3, 3') in extension of the joint axis (5)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

An objective (3, 3') of the binoculars (1) is used as the receiving objective for the laser rangefinder

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical transmission: Light

Implementation Method 3

displaying a destination and a measured distance by reflecting a display in the observation beam path

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS8909470B2Optical observation device for target acquisition and navigation
Publication Date: 2014.12.09 LEICA CAMERA AG
  • US8909470B2 patent drawing
  • US8909470B2 patent drawing
  • US8909470B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An optical observation device for target acquisition and navigation having at least one objective, which is to be turned toward the object to be observed, and at least one ocular, which is to be turned toward the eye of the observer, in a housing, wherein the housing has at least one image reversal system, means for range finding, for location/position determination, for determination of the compass direction, and for displaying data, is distinguished in that an integrated target acquisition module having optoelectronic rangefinder, a GPS position determination, an electronic compass direction determination, and a microcomputer unit for calculating and storing distance and location coordinates of a targeted destination, an integrated navigation module having a display screen, which is arranged externally on the housing, and actuating elements, which are arranged on the housing, for activating functions of the target acquisition and navigation module are provided.