Handheld Rangefinder Ballistic Hold-Over Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Handheld rangefinders fail to accurately provide hold-over ballistic information necessary for compensating projectile trajectory variations due to range, slope, elevation, and firearm/projectile specifics, limiting their effectiveness in real-time hunting scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A handheld rangefinder device equipped with a range sensor, tilt sensor, and computing element that determines adjusted hold-over values by accessing a database of pre-stored values, allowing for automatic calculation of ballistic information, including angle adjustments, to facilitate accurate aiming without manual calculations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If handheld rangefinders provide basic range measurement, then portability and field of vision are improved, but hold-over ballistic information accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (range finding, tilt sensing, ballistic calculation, and hold-over value determination) into a single handheld device. The computing element integrates data from the range sensor and tilt sensor to automatically calculate adjusted hold-over values, merging what were previously separate manual calculation tasks into one automated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The device pre-stores hold-over values in a database for various ranges and sight-in distances. When a target is measured, the computing element quickly retrieves and adjusts the appropriate pre-calculated values based on the actual sight-in distance and measured range, eliminating the need for real-time manual ballistic calculations.
2Measurement precision
If manual hold-over calculations are performed, then all variables can be considered, but time consumption and practicality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs self-service by automatically retrieving stored hold-over values and calculating adjusted values based on the actual sight-in distance and measured range. The computing element autonomously processes the ballistic information without requiring the user to manually input all variables or perform calculations, delivering accurate results instantly.
3Measurement precision
If devices compensate for slope and elevation, then shooting accuracy is improved, but device complexity and field of vision limitations worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The handheld rangefinder is designed as a universal device that can be used independently of firearm attachment while providing multiple functions: range measurement, tilt compensation, ballistic calculation, and hold-over value determination. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized devices while maintaining portability and ease of use.
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 shooters to quickly and accurately determine hold-over values, enhancing aiming precision by considering multiple variables, thus improving shooting accuracy across varying ranges and inclines.
Implementation Method 1
a range sensor for determining a range to a target
Implementation Method 2
a tilt sensor for determining an angle to the target relative to the device
Data Source
AI summary
A handheld rangefinder device (10) operable to determine ballistic hold-over information is disclosed. The rangefinder device generally includes a range sensor (12) operable to determine a range to a target, a memory (18) storing a database of ranges and corresponding hold-over values for a default sight-in distance, and a computing element (16), coupled with the range sensor and the memory. The computing element may calculate an adjusted hold-overvalue based on the range and an actual sight-in distance. Additionally, a tilt sensor (14) may be included to provide information for calculating an angle-adjusted hold-over value. Such a configuration facilitates accurate firearm use by providing ranges and hold-over values without requiring time-consuming and manual user calculations. The device may further comprise inputs (32) and a display (30).