Pivoting Periscope Mirror for Armored Vehicle Height Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional periscope systems for armored vehicles are bulky, restrict movement, and are difficult to adapt to advancing display technologies, with a high overall height that hinders access and usage within the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A corner mirror system with a pivoting and telescoping deflection mirror integrated into the housing, allowing for a compact design that can be folded away, combined with a pivotable display holder for enhanced space efficiency and adaptability, including the use of semi-transparent mirrors and touch-sensitive displays for ergonomic and versatile operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional periscope system is installed in an armored vehicle, then the viewing function is provided, but the overall height extends far into the interior and restricts movement and access
Solution Approach 1:
The periscope system is designed with movable components including a pivotable deflection mirror and a telescoping mirror assembly that can extend and retract. The housing itself can pivot relative to the vehicle ceiling, transforming the system from a static bulky structure to a dynamic compact unit that reduces height when not in use
Solution Approach 2:
The telescoping mirror assembly allows the optical components to be nested within a compact housing when retracted, significantly reducing the overall height. The mirrors and optical path are contained within the housing structure, creating a nested configuration that minimizes space occupation
2Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional periscope system is installed, then the viewing function is provided, but it takes up a large amount of space and is bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic mechanisms including a telescoping mirror assembly that can extend to full length for viewing and retract to minimal length for storage. The pivotable housing and adjustable deflection mirror allow the system to adapt its configuration, occupying minimal space when not in use while providing full functionality when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The periscope system is divided into separable components including a removable display unit and a pivotable housing. The display can be detached and replaced independently, while the housing can pivot to reduce space occupation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for compact storage while maintaining full functionality
3Adaptability or versatility
If a permanently installed periscope is used, then the viewing function is provided, but it is difficult to adapt to rapidly developing display technology
Solution Approach 1:
The display unit is completely separated from the optical periscope housing, allowing independent replacement and upgrading of display technology without affecting the mechanical periscope components. The display connects via standard interfaces and can be swapped like any other electronic component, keeping the system adaptable to new display technologies
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed with universal mounting features and standardized connection interfaces that can accommodate different display types and technologies. The pivotable housing and standardized mounting devices allow the same mechanical structure to support various display configurations and technologies over time
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
Significantly reduces the overall height and depth of the periscope system, improving user-friendliness, adaptability, and functionality, allowing for easier access and enhanced information accessibility while maintaining backup functionality during power failures and protecting occupants.
Implementation Method 1
an internal prism block with an upper deflection surface
Implementation Method 2
a separate lower deflection mirror, which is mounted on the housing about a horizontal pivot axis
Data Source
Figure 1~4
AI summary
An angle mirror system is provided, comprising a housing (1;11) with a viewing window (2), an internal prism block with an upper deflecting surface (12) and a lower horizontal end surface, and a viewing window (3) formed by a separate lower deflecting mirror (4) mounted on the housing (1;11) about a pivot axis (6) horizontal to the viewing direction, and an associated electronic display (5) located behind the deflecting mirror in the viewing direction. This system has a significantly reduced height and depth, at least temporarily. The display (5) is arranged on a display holder (7) that is part of the housing (1;11) of the angle mirror system.