Spotting Scope Laser Rangefinder Dichroic Mirror Gesture Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical instruments, such as spotting scopes and riflescopes, lack integrated range finding features and user-friendly interaction methods, limiting their ability to provide enhanced viewing experiences and accurate distance measurements.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a laser range finder with a dichroic mirror system and gesture control capabilities, allowing for touchless operation and display of distance measurements directly through the eyepiece, enhancing user interaction and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a laser range finder is integrated into the optical instrument, then distance measurement capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the laser range finder with the optical viewing system into a single integrated instrument. The laser transmitter, receiver, and processing electronics are merged with the optical path components, allowing distance measurement and visual observation to occur through one device rather than requiring separate instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical instrument is designed to perform multiple functions: visual observation through the objective lens and eyepiece, laser range finding for distance measurement, and gesture control for operation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate devices and reduces overall system complexity despite adding capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If gesture control is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical control interfaces (buttons, switches, dials) with a gesture-based control system. The gesture sensor detects hand movements and translates them into operational commands, eliminating the need for physical contact with the device and providing more intuitive user interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The gesture sensor acts as an intermediary between the user and the device operations. Instead of direct mechanical interaction, the sensor captures gesture information and converts it into control signals, providing a non-contact interface that simplifies operation while managing complexity through modular sensor integration.
3Measurement precision
If a dichroic mirror system is used, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dichroic mirror is designed with specific local optical properties: it reflects visible light wavelengths while transmitting infrared wavelengths. This localized wavelength-selective quality allows the single mirror to perform dual functions in the optical path, separating the visible imaging function from the infrared range finding function without requiring multiple mirrors or complex assemblies.
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 precise distance measurement and improved user interaction through integrated laser range finding and gesture control, enhancing the viewing experience and operational efficiency of optical instruments.
Implementation Method 1
a first mirror configured to redirect visible light received from the objective system but permits light at a selected wavelength other than visible light to pass therethrough
Implementation Method 2
a laser transmitter configured to emit light at a selected wavelength
Implementation Method 3
a receiver positioned behind the first mirror... The receiver comprises an avalanche photodiode
Data Source
AI summary
An optical instrument, such as a spotting scope, is provided. The optical instrument may include a range finder configured to calculate or otherwise determine a distance between the optical instrument and an identified object. The optical instrument may also include a display and a user interface. In some embodiments, an operation system associated with the optical instrument may include sensing touchless gestures. For example, hand gestures or eye gestures may be used to navigate a user interface, to actuate the laser range finder, to alter the brightness of a display, or to carry out any of a number of other operational commands.