Rifle Scope Turret Stop Mechanism for Zero Point Accuracy
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rifle scopes lack a reliable zero stop mechanism, making it difficult for users to accurately return to the zero point, especially in poor lighting conditions, and existing solutions are complex, prone to mechanical failure, and vulnerable to environmental contamination.
Innovation Solution
A rifle scope with a turret stop mechanism featuring a stop collar assembly and stopper that securely engages with a stop surface to prevent over-rotation, using a brass stop collar and steel stopper for durability and resistance to wear, with O-rings to seal the mechanism from the elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional turrets are used without a zero stop mechanism, then the scope can compensate for bullet drop at longer distances, but the zero point can be easily lost when elevation is dialed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning a stop element that physically limits the rotation of the turret screw to prevent it from rotating beyond the zero point. This stop element is configured before use and remains in place to automatically prevent over-rotation, eliminating the need for users to remember click counts or directions when returning to zero.
2Volume of moving object
If turret markings are made small to maintain compact scope components, then the scope remains compact, but the markings become difficult to read under poor lighting conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing the stop element to provide a positive tactile and audible stop that automatically indicates when the zero point is reached. The mechanism serves itself by providing inherent feedback through the physical stop, eliminating the need for users to rely on visual markings for determining the zero point, especially in poor lighting conditions.
3Reliability
If existing zero stop mechanisms are implemented, then over-adjustment beyond zero point is prevented, but the mechanisms become complex and prone to mechanical failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies taking out by extracting the essential function of preventing over-rotation from complex existing mechanisms and implementing it through a simple stop element that limits turret screw rotation. This simplified approach removes unnecessary complexity while maintaining the core reliability function of preventing over-adjustment beyond the zero point.
4Reliability
If existing zero stop mechanisms are used, then over-rotation is prevented, but the mechanisms are vulnerable to environmental contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies flexible shells and thin films by using a stop element that can be integrated with sealing components to protect the internal turret mechanism from environmental contamination. The stop element design allows for the incorporation of seals or protective barriers that prevent moisture, dust, and other environmental factors from entering and damaging the precision adjustment mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
Rifle scopes with adjustment stops include a scope body, a movable optical element defining an optical axis enclosed by the scope body, and a turret having a screw operably connected to the optical element for adjusting the optical axis in response to rotation of the screw. The turret has a stop element selectably engaged to the screw. The body defines a stop surface positioned for engagement by the turret stop element to limit rotation of the screw, such that the relative position at which the stop element is secured to the screw defines a zero position of the screw and the movable optical element. The stop element is held against the stop surface by an indexing portion while the relative position at which the stop element is secured to the screw to define the zero position is determined.