Optical Scope Cant Indicator with Inclinometer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gun sighting systems face inaccuracies due to firearm cant, which is difficult to detect with precision, especially in adverse conditions, and current solutions are either unreliable or distract the shooter from the target.
Innovation Solution
An electronic cant-detecting device integrated into the optical system, using an inclinometer and light emitters to provide visual indicators of cant, allowing shooters to maintain focus on the target while ensuring the scope is level.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional mechanical cant indicators (bubble levels) are used, then cant detection is provided, but the shooter's attention is diverted from the target and reliability in adverse conditions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical bubble level indicators with an electronic inclinometer-based system that provides digital cant detection. This substitution eliminates the need for shooters to visually check physical bubble levels, allowing them to maintain focus on the target while the electronic system continuously monitors and indicates cant conditions through audio or visual alerts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary electronic processing system between the cant measurement and the shooter. The inclinometer continuously measures cant, but instead of requiring direct visual observation, the system uses intermediate audio warnings or reticle indicators to convey cant information, allowing the shooter to remain focused on the target without directly observing the measurement device.
2Measurement precision
If mechanical cant indicators are used, then cant detection is provided, but reliability in adverse environmental conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces fragile mechanical bubble level systems with robust electronic inclinometers that are resistant to adverse environmental conditions. The electronic sensors and processing systems provide reliable cant detection in conditions where mechanical indicators may fail, including extreme temperatures, vibrations, and physical impacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the cant detection system by using electronic sensors with extended operational temperature ranges and enhanced durability specifications. The electronic system can operate reliably across a wider range of environmental conditions compared to mechanical indicators, maintaining measurement precision in extreme cold, heat, and vibration.
3Ease of operation
If electronic cant detection systems are added to the optical system, then shooter focus is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electronic cant detection system with the existing optical scope by integrating the inclinometer, processing electronics, and indication mechanisms into the scope's housing. The system shares power sources, mounting structures, and physical space with the optical components, reducing overall complexity despite adding electronic functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the electronic cant detection system to serve multiple functions: it provides cant detection, audio warnings, and reticle illumination control. The system integrates with existing scope features and can operate independently or in conjunction with other scope functions, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and simplifying the overall system architecture.
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 solution effectively reduces errors caused by firearm cant, is robust against environmental conditions, and maintains shooter focus, providing reliable cant detection in various tactical environments.
Implementation Method 1
an electronic inclinometer configured to determine a cant of the mounted optical system
Implementation Method 2
an electronic indicator structured to provide an indicator signal to a user related to the determined cant
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic indicator accessory may be coupled to a standard scope, which is in turn coupled to a shooting device, to indicate whether the scope is canted. The indicator may be visual, haptic, or aural. If visual, the visual indicator may include one or more LEDs positioned on the periphery of the field of view, on an accessory body attached to the scope. The accessory body may be coupled near either the ocular or objective lens of the scope. The LEDs are coupled to a microprocessor which is, in turn, coupled to a solid-state electronic inclinometer that is incorporated into the internal structure of the optical system. The microprocessor is configured to selectively illuminate one or more of the visual indicators based on the output of the inclinometer, thereby indicating how the reticle is canted, if at all.