Miniaturized Single Focal Plane Sight for Faster Target Acquisition
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aiming devices, such as occluded and non-occluded 'red dot' sights, face issues with size, obstruction of the target, need for binocular vision, prolonged image assembly degradation, and increased learning curve, which hinder effective and rapid target acquisition, especially in combat scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A miniaturized single focal plane aiming device that integrates collimated light or holographic projection, allowing simultaneous focus on the target and reticle with one eye, and functions as a fixed post sight in case of technology failure, while maintaining concealability and muscle memory.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional iron sights are used, then the device structure is simple and reliable, but the user must focus on multiple focal planes which slows down target acquisition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical iron sights with a light-based collimated reticle system. The illuminated reticle is optically collimated to appear at the same focal plane as the target, eliminating the need for the user to shift focus between different planes. This substitution of mechanical alignment with optical projection directly addresses the speed limitation while managing complexity through integrated electronics.
Solution Approach 2:
The aiming device is designed to provide multiple functions: it serves as both a traditional iron sight backup and a primary illuminated reticle system. The housing can function as a front or rear sight depending on configuration, and the system includes both electronic illumination and traditional mechanical sighting elements, allowing the user to switch between modes based on operational needs.
2Speed
If occluded or non-occluded red dot sights are used, then single focal plane aiming is achieved, but the device size increases and obstructs the target
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the aiming function into separate front and rear sight components, each with its own miniaturized illuminated reticle. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for minimal obstruction while maintaining the single focal plane advantage. The front sight unit is particularly minimized to reduce obstruction of the target area.
Solution Approach 2:
The illuminated reticle components are nested within compact housings that can be integrated into the firearm's existing sight structure. The electronic components, light sources, and optical elements are nested within minimal-volume configurations, allowing the system to maintain small external dimensions while providing full single focal plane functionality.
3Ease of operation
If miniaturized aiming device is used, then concealability is improved and traditional sight muscle memory is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes in the optical system to achieve miniaturization. By adjusting the collimation optics and light source parameters, the system achieves the desired reticle size and brightness in a miniaturized package. The optical parameters are optimized to maintain the appearance of traditional sights while reducing physical dimensions for better concealability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses intermediary optical elements to bridge between the miniaturized electronic components and the traditional sight picture. Collimating lenses and optical adapters serve as intermediaries that allow small electronic reticle generators to produce traditional-sized apparent reticles, maintaining compatibility with existing shooter muscle memory while enabling miniaturization.
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 rapid and accurate target acquisition with reduced lag time, increased situational awareness, and ease of use, overcoming the limitations of conventional sights by providing a single focal plane aiming experience.
Implementation Method 1
at least one collimation element, wherein a) the light source generates or gathers light which is passed through a collimation element; said light passing through the collimation element is used to provide a signal used in aiming
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods including miniaturization of a single focal plane collimated light-based aiming sights and their variants. One technical effect includes a user's ability to develop an effective, accurate and fast sight picture using ‘red-dot’/reticle type sights while preserving the superior accuracy of these technologies. One new result is the reduction of the housing size, and overall footprint of the structural elements of these sights. In at least on embodiment, using LEDs, the power requirement for the aiming device is significantly lowered which means that the volume and weight of the aiming device is reduced. Accordingly, this enables positioning of the now miniaturized sight at the top of a pistol, firearm or apparatus. In at least one embodiment an aiming device is located with a firearm's front sight. In at least one embodiment, an aiming sight's structure, methods of fabrication, assembly, use includes kitting of the sights.