Firearm Scope Alignment via Level-Referenced Laser Beam

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing firearm scope alignment methods lack precision and accuracy, particularly in ensuring that the reference beams are level, which is crucial for proper alignment and aiming.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus comprising a light generation device and a level indicator, where the light generation device generates a reference beam that is level when the level indicator shows a level state, allowing for precise alignment of the firearm scope by projecting the beam onto a surface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional scope alignment methods are used, then the alignment process can be completed, but the precision and accuracy of the alignment are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoidalignment reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment methods with an optical system consisting of a laser generator, reference beam lens, and level indicator. The laser generates a reference beam that passes through the lens to create a visible alignment reference, eliminating the need for manual mechanical adjustment and providing a more precise and reliable alignment mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a level indicator as an intermediary device that mediates between the optical system and the alignment process. The level indicator ensures that the reference beam is horizontally level, providing an intermediate reference that improves both the precision and reliability of the final scope alignment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If a reference beam lens is used to generate the reference beam, then the beam can be projected onto a surface, but the orientation of the lens may vary, reducing repeatability and accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebeam projection capabilityVSAvoidlens orientation precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs an asymmetric physical guide structure within the housing that corresponds to asymmetric features on the reference beam lens. This asymmetric design ensures that the lens can only be inserted in one specific orientation, eliminating orientation variability and ensuring repeatable, accurate beam projection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

3Measurement precision

If the level indicator and reference beam lens are coordinated through a physical guide, then the orientation becomes more repeatable and accurate, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelens orientation precisionVSAvoidhousing structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the housing into distinct functional segments: a level indicator housing containing the level indicator, and a reference beam lens housing containing the lens and physical guide. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies assembly, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

The apparatus ensures repeatable and accurate alignment of the firearm scope by providing a level reference beam, enhancing the precision and reliability of the aiming process.

Implementation Method 1

The light generator will include a laser, but may be any type of light generator capable of producing a reference beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

The level indicator and reference beam lens are situated in the housing such that a reference beam generated from light passing through the reference beam lens is level when the level indicator shows a level state

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpirit Level: Spirit Level

Data Source

PatentUS8695266B2Reference beam generating apparatus
Publication Date: 2014.04.15 CRIMSON TRACE CORP
  • US8695266B2 patent drawing
  • US8695266B2 patent drawing
  • US8695266B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides an apparatus for aiding in the alignment of a scope of a firearm. The apparatus includes a light generation device and a level indicator. The light generation device is attachable to the firearm and is for generating a reference beam. The reference beam may be a horizontal, vertical, or cross-hair line beam. When the level indicator indicates a level state, the reference beam generated by the light generation device is also level. Typically, the level reference beam is projected against a flat surface and is used as a reference to line up the crosshairs of a scope attached to the firearm.