Rifle Scope Turret Spiral Cam for Rotation Stops and Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rifle scope turrets lack adjustment stops to prevent over-rotation, visual and tactile indicators for rotation count, and locking mechanisms, leading to inaccuracies in sighting under poor lighting conditions and difficulty in making large adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A rifle scope with a spiral cam mechanism featuring self-centering bushings and guide rods that prevent binding during actuation, includes adjustment stops, rotation indicators, and a locking mechanism for the turret, allowing tool-less adjustment and locking of multiple knobs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional turrets allow multiple rotations for long-range compensation, then the scope can adjust for longer distances, but the user may lose track of rotation count and inadvertently adjust in dark conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a rotation indicator that provides visual feedback to the user about the current rotation count and position of the turret. This feedback mechanism allows users to track their adjustments even in dark conditions where tactile feedback alone is insufficient, preventing loss of position information while maintaining extended adjustment range.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation indicator utilizes optical contrast and visual differentiation to display rotation positions. By using markings that are visually distinguishable under various lighting conditions, the system ensures that users can reliably read the rotation count both in bright and dark environments, maintaining position awareness throughout the adjustment range.
2Device complexity
If turret markings are made small for compact scope components, then the scope remains compact, but markings become difficult to read under borderline lighting conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a vertical dimension to the indicator system by implementing a rotation indicator that extends outward from the turret face. This three-dimensional indicator provides enhanced visibility without increasing the horizontal footprint of the scope, allowing users to read markings clearly while maintaining compact overall dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation indicator employs high-contrast optical characteristics that remain visible across different lighting conditions. The indicator design incorporates features that optimize light reflection and contrast, ensuring readability from dim ambient light to direct sunlight without requiring the markings to be excessively large.
3Device complexity
If conventional turrets lack locking mechanisms, then the turret structure remains simple, but the turret can be easily bumped and inadvertently adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic locking mechanism that transitions between locked and unlocked states based on user input. The locking feature engages automatically when the turret reaches certain rotation positions, providing position stability without requiring continuous user intervention. The mechanism remains simple when unlocked but provides enhanced security when engaged, balancing structural simplicity with position stability.
4Device complexity
If the turret lacks adjustment stops, then the turret structure remains simple, but the user cannot prevent adjustment beyond preset amounts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustment stops that prevent the turret from rotating beyond predetermined limits. These stops are built into the turret structure and engage automatically at maximum adjustment positions, preventing erroneous adjustments before they can occur. The stops are designed to work with minimal additional complexity, maintaining structural simplicity while ensuring precise adjustment boundaries are enforced.
Data Source
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AI summary
An optic device turret for adjusting the optical element of the optic device. A spiral cam mechanism is engaged with the turret to define a maximum and minimum adjustment of the optical element. A rotation indicator displays the amount a knob has been rotated,