Optical Aiming Turret Locking Assembly for Zero Stop Reset
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical aiming devices, such as riflescopes, face challenges with turret locking mechanisms that are prone to failure, require complex procedures, and can lead to over-tightening or binding due to their threaded nature, making it difficult to maintain a zero position accurately.
Innovation Solution
A locking adjustment assembly featuring a cap assembly with a pivotal locking lever and a push button mechanism that allows for a locked or unlocked position, using a novel zero stop design and dual jacking screws for precise adjustment without shims or complicated steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a stop type mechanism is used to prevent inadvertent adjustment beyond zero position, then the zero position can be protected, but the mechanism becomes complicated and may still allow over-rotation with thread binding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the stop function from the traditional threaded turret mechanism by introducing a separate locking lever assembly with a cam surface. The locking lever engages with a slot in the elevation adjustment member to provide a mechanical stop at the zero position, preventing over-rotation without relying on thread engagement. This separation of the stop function from the threading mechanism resolves the contradiction by providing reliable zero position protection while avoiding the complexity and limitations of integrated stop-type mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If a threaded turret mechanism is used for adjustment, then elevation changes can be achieved, but over-rotation may result in overtightening or binding of internal threads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the elevation adjustment mechanism into two independent components: a threaded mechanism for generating elevation changes and a locking lever assembly with cam surface for limiting rotation. The locking lever engages with a slot in the elevation adjustment member, creating a mechanical stop that prevents over-rotation before threads can bind. This segmentation allows the threaded mechanism to function freely for normal adjustments while the separate locking mechanism protects against over-rotation, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and thread durability.
3Reliability
If a pin type locking mechanism is used, then the turret can be locked at a position, but the mechanism is susceptible to failure over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the static pin-type locking mechanism with a dynamic locking lever assembly that pivots on a hinge. The locking lever engages with a slot in the elevation adjustment member and can be moved between locked and unlocked positions. The cam surface on the locking lever provides a positive mechanical engagement that is more durable than pin mechanisms. This dynamic design allows for easier engagement and disengagement while providing more reliable long-term locking capability, resolving the contradiction between locking capability and mechanism lifespan.
Data Source
AI summary
The application is directed to a locking adjustment assembly for an optical aiming device. The locking adjustment assembly is usable across different optical platforms regardless of the focal length of a particular optical platform. The locking adjustment assembly is operationally configured to be reset to a zero position. The locking adjustment assembly may also provide an automatic lock at a zero position.