Universal Scope Zoom Lever with Adjustable Strap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scope zoom levers are highly customized to fit specific rifle scope models, leading to high production and storage costs due to the need for multiple precisely machined versions, making them expensive even when made of plastic.
Innovation Solution
A scope zoom lever with a lever attachment facility and an elongated strap featuring multiple attachment locations and a tensioning mechanism to accommodate various adjustment ring diameters, allowing for easy installation on any rifle scope without the need for custom machining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If scope zoom levers are highly customized to fit specific rifle scope models, then the fit and functionality for each model is optimized, but the production and storage costs increase due to the need for multiple precisely machined versions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single scope zoom lever model that can fit multiple rifle scope models through an adjustable strap mechanism. The strap can be configured to accommodate different adjustment ring diameters, eliminating the need for multiple customized lever versions while maintaining proper fit and functionality across various scope models.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the strap adjustable and reconfigurable. The strap can be modified to fit different sizes of adjustment rings, allowing the same lever body to adapt to various scope models. This dynamic adjustment capability replaces the static, model-specific design approach.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple precisely machined scope zoom lever versions are produced for different rifle scope models, then compatibility with specific models is ensured, but the expense of manufacturing and stocking these variants increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces the quantity of different lever versions that need to be manufactured and stocked by creating a universal lever design. Instead of producing multiple precisely machined variants for different scope models, the manufacturer produces a single lever model with an adjustable strap that can accommodate multiple scope models, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and inventory requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the scope zoom lever into two functional components: a standardized lever body that interfaces with the scope's power adjustment ring, and an adjustable strap that can be configured to fit different ring diameters. This segmentation allows the lever body to remain consistent across all models while only the strap configuration varies, reducing the need for multiple customized parts.
3Ease of manufacture
If scope zoom levers are made of plastic rather than aluminum to reduce cost, then the material expense is reduced, but the structural strength and durability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials by combining plastic for the lever body (to reduce cost and weight) with metal components for the strap and attachment mechanisms (to provide necessary strength and durability). This composite approach allows the use of inexpensive plastic where structural demands are low while reinforcing critical load-bearing elements with stronger materials.
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 adjustment of magnification on any rifle scope, reducing costs and increasing accessibility for users by providing a universal solution that fits multiple scope models, while maintaining a secure grip and functionality in various conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The first attachment facility may include a threaded fastener. The threaded fastener may be connected to one of the lever and the strap, and wherein the other of the lever and the strap includes a bore adapted to receive the fastener.
Implementation Method 2
the first attachment facility having a tensioning feature operable to snug the strap after the second attachment facility is connected
Data Source
AI summary
A scope zoom lever has a lever having a first lever attachment facility and a second lever attachment facility, an elongated strap having a first end having a first strap attachment facility adapted to connect to the first lever attachment facility, and an opposed second end having a second attachment facility adapted to connect to the second lever attachment facility, the second attachment facility having a plurality of alternative attachment locations to accommodate a range of adjustment ring diameters, the first attachment facility having a tensioning feature operable to snug the strap after the second attachment facility is connected. The first attachment facility may include a threaded fastener. The threaded fastener may be connected to one of the lever and the strap, and wherein the other of the lever and the strap includes a bore adapted to receive the fastener.