Multi-Magnification Scope with Tumbler Lens Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing viewing and aiming scopes face challenges in rapidly switching between different magnifications without compromising boresight or increasing weight and size, particularly in applications like urban warfare where quick adaptation between close-in and intermediate ranges is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A multi-magnification viewing and aiming scope design that allows rapid switching between two or more magnifications without altering the eye relief or boresight, using a second imaging lens group that can be controllably inserted into the optical path, maintaining the image location and focal plane, and incorporating a tumbler mechanism for easy magnification adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-magnification viewing and aiming scope is used, then the optical structure is simple and stable, but the field of view is limited and cannot be adjusted for different ranges
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is divided into two separate imaging groups: a first imaging group that provides high magnification for distant targets, and a second imaging group that provides low magnification or unity magnification for close-range targets. This segmentation allows each group to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The scope is designed to perform multiple functions through a single optical structure that can switch between different imaging groups. The first imaging group handles intermediate to long-range viewing, while the second imaging group handles close-range viewing, making the scope universally applicable across different combat ranges without requiring multiple separate devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If zoom lenses are used to provide variable magnification, then the field of view can be continuously adjusted, but the eye relief changes and requires head movement to maintain viewing
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a continuous zoom mechanism that changes eye relief, the patent segments the magnification ranges into discrete imaging groups. Each group is optically designed to provide a specific magnification range while maintaining consistent eye relief characteristics, eliminating the need for head movement when switching between magnifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters by switching between different imaging groups rather than continuously adjusting zoom. Each imaging group is designed with specific optical parameters that maintain consistent eye relief, allowing magnification changes without requiring changes in head position or eye relief.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple viewing and aiming scopes are mounted together to cover different ranges, then all magnification requirements are met, but the weight and size of the weapon system increases greatly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple separate viewing and aiming scopes into a single integrated scope. By combining a first imaging group for distant targets and a second imaging group for close-range targets within one optical housing, the system achieves multi-range coverage without the weight and size penalty of mounting multiple separate scopes.
Solution Approach 2:
A single scope is designed to be universal across different combat ranges by incorporating switchable imaging groups. This eliminates the need for soldiers to carry and interchange multiple specialized scopes, reducing overall equipment weight while maintaining the ability to handle both close-in and intermediate-range situations effectively.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a split-field of view scope with different magnifications is used, then both close-range and distant targets can be viewed, but blind spots appear between the two portions of the image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the viewing function into separate imaging groups that are activated based on the required range, rather than attempting to display split fields simultaneously. This segmentation approach ensures that only one coherent, continuous image is presented to the user at any given time, eliminating blind spots and image discontinuities.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical parameters of the scope are changed by switching between imaging groups rather than maintaining a split-field configuration. Each imaging group provides a complete, continuous field of view optimized for its specific range, ensuring image continuity and reliability without the blind spots inherent in split-field designs.
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 quick and easy reconfiguration between low-magnification, wide-field and high-magnification settings, retaining boresight and minimizing weight and size, allowing users to maintain continuous viewing with one eye while switching between configurations, enhancing detection and aiming capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a first imaging group having an optical path and including an objective lens group lying on the optical path, wherein objective lens group includes at least a first objective lens, and an eyepiece lens group lying on the optical path. The first imaging group forms a first image having a first magnification on the optical path at an image location.
Implementation Method 2
a second imaging lens group that may be controllably inserted into the optical path between the first objective lens and the eyepiece lens group. Upon insertion of the second imaging lens group into the optical path, an optical combination of the first imaging group and the second imaging lens group forms a second image having a second magnification on the optical path at substantially the image location.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-magnification viewing and aiming scope includes a first imaging group including an objective lens and an eyepiece lens lying on the optical path. The first imaging group forms a first image having a first magnification on the optical path at an image location. A second imaging lens group is controllably inserted into the optical path between at least some elements of the objective lens and the eyepiece lens. Upon insertion of the second imaging lens group into the optical path an optical combination of the first imaging group and the second imaging lens group forms a second image having a second magnification on the optical path at substantially the image location. The insertion may be accomplished by a tumbler mechanism upon which the second imaging lens group is mounted for pivoting the second imaging lens group about an axis perpendicular to the optical path.