Optical Scope Zero Stop Turret Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical scope zero stop mechanisms require turret cap removal for setting, leading to potential loss, dirt and debris entry, and gritty tactile feedback due to binding issues, compromising precision and operation.
Innovation Solution
A turret design with a base, turret cover, zero stop ring, and projection that allows zero stop setting without disassembly, where the turret cover and zero stop ring rotate in unison, protecting internal components from environmental factors and providing crisp, consistent adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the turret cap is removed to access and set the zero stop mechanism, then the zero stop can be set, but the cap may be lost or misplaced and dirt, debris, and water can enter the turret
Solution Approach 1:
The turret is divided into functional zones: the turret cap remains fixed to protect internal components, while the zero stop ring is made independently adjustable. This segmentation allows the zero stop setting function to be accessed without removing the protective turret cap, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The zero stop ring acts as an intermediary component between the user and the internal turret mechanisms. It provides a controlled interface for setting the zero stop position without requiring direct access to the internal components, thereby protecting them from environmental contaminants while maintaining usability.
2Ease of operation
If the zero stop mechanism uses a vertically oriented post movable in a spiral groove, then the zero stop can be set, but the post can bind causing odd tactile feedback and gritty rotation
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving a post vertically through a spiral groove (conventional approach), the invention inverts the mechanism by rotating the zero stop ring horizontally within the fixed turret structure. This inversion eliminates the binding issue associated with vertical post movement in spiral grooves, providing smooth tactile feedback during adjustment.
3Ease of operation
If the turret cap is removed for zero stop setting, then the zero stop can be accessed, but the turret internals are exposed to environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The turret structure is segmented into a fixed protective cap and an independently adjustable zero stop ring. This allows the zero stop function to be modified without compromising the integrity of the protective cap, keeping internal components shielded from environmental contaminants throughout the adjustment process.
4Ease of operation
If the zero stop mechanism requires cap removal, then setting is possible, but the cap may be lost resulting in inoperable scope
Solution Approach 1:
The zero stop adjustment function is separated from the turret cap assembly, allowing the cap to remain permanently attached and secure. The zero stop ring can be adjusted independently without requiring removal of the cap, eliminating the risk of cap loss and maintaining complete turret assembly integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A turret for an optical scope including a base, a turret cover graspable by a user, a zero stop limiter, a zero stop ring extending around a guide groove, and a projection movable within the guide groove. The turret cover and the ring are operable in a zero stop setting mode in which these components rotate in unison about an axis of rotation, while the turret cover remains installed on the turret, so the projection moves in the guide groove until the projection engages the zero stop limiter to establish a zero stop. The turret cover can include a first interface element and the zero stop ring can include a second interface element that interface with one another so these components rotate in unison. The guide groove can be defined by a guide sleeve fixed to the base and threadably engaged with the ring.