Optical Range Finder Without Power Using Magnification Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing range finders require electrical power and are bulky due to the need for laser diodes and avalanche photodiodes, making them costly and difficult to use without power sources.
Innovation Solution
A range finder design that includes a shell unit with an objective lens assembly, a magnifying unit, and a range finding unit with comparing components and scale markings, allowing users to determine distances without electrical power by adjusting magnification ratios and aligning image heights with reference points and marks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a laser sighting device is equipped with a laser diode and an avalanche photodiode for emitting and receiving the laser beam, then distance measurement function is achieved, but the volume and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the laser diode and avalanche photodiode components from the sighting device, eliminating the need for electrical power while maintaining distance measurement capability through optical means alone
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical imaging to create a visual representation of distance relationships on the reticle, allowing users to estimate distance by comparing the subject's image size against reference markings without requiring active laser emission or detection
2Measurement precision
If a laser sighting device is equipped with a laser diode and an avalanche photodiode, then distance measurement function is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the expensive laser diode and avalanche photodiode components, replacing them with simpler optical elements that can be manufactured at lower cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive optical components such as lenses, reticles with distance markings, and prisms that can be mass-produced at low cost, eliminating the need for expensive electronic distance measurement components
3Measurement precision
If a laser sighting device requires electrical power for distance calculation, then accurate distance measurement is achieved, but the ease of use without power source is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the device to provide distance measurement information passively through optical imaging and visual comparison on the reticle, requiring no external power source or electronic processing, making it inherently easy to use in any condition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces electronic distance calculation systems with an optical-mechanical imaging system that uses lenses, reticles with distance markings, and visual comparison methods to provide distance information without electrical power
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 easy and accurate distance measurement without electrical power, similar to laser sighting devices but with a more compact and cost-effective optical design.
Implementation Method 1
an objective lens assembly disposed on the objective end, and forming a first imaging plane at a first focus position
Implementation Method 2
a magnifying unit disposed in the shell unit and between the objective end and the eyepiece end, the magnifying unit forming a second imaging plane behind the first imaging plane at a second focus position
Data Source
AI summary
A range finder adapted for finding the object distance of a subject having a specific height includes a shell unit, an objective lens assembly, a magnifying unit having multiple selectable magnification ratios, and a range finding unit. The range finding unit includes a scale, a pointer, and a mark. The object distance of the subject is known by comparing the scale and the pointer in an imaging plane when an end of an image of the specific height of the subject formed on the imaging plane is aligned with the mark.