Zoom Optics for Laser Rangefinders Resolving Magnification Trade-offs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional laser rangefinders face challenges in accurately measuring distant targets, especially when the target is small or moving, due to difficulties in reflecting laser pulses effectively.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a zoom optics structure into laser-based rangefinders, which includes moveable first and second lenses and an ocular lens, allowing for adjustable magnification and improved target acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional laser rangefinder optics are used, then the device structure remains simple, but the ability to accurately measure distant targets deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a zoom optical system with moveable lenses that allow dynamic adjustment of magnification power. The first and second lenses can be positioned at different locations along the optical axis to change the magnification level, enabling the rangefinder to adapt to different target distances and sizes. This dynamic optical system resolves the contradiction by providing variable magnification capability while maintaining a relatively compact and integrated device structure.
2Reliability
If zoom optics are incorporated to improve target acquisition, then measurement accuracy for distant targets improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The zoom optical system with adjustable magnification allows the rangefinder to reliably acquire and measure distant targets by providing enhanced visual confirmation of target location and size. The moveable lenses enable dynamic adjustment to optimize the field of view and target magnification based on distance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system serves multiple functions: it provides both the laser ranging measurement capability and the visual magnification function for target acquisition and confirmation. By integrating these functions into a single optical path with zoom capability, the system achieves multi-functionality without requiring completely separate optical systems.
3Measurement precision
If higher magnification is provided for distant targets, then target viewing capability improves, but the field of view narrows
Solution Approach 1:
The variable magnification zoom system allows the user to dynamically adjust the magnification level based on the specific measurement requirements. When distant targets need to be viewed, higher magnification can be selected; when a broader survey is needed, lower magnification provides a wider field of view. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction by allowing optimal trade-off between magnification and field of view for different operational scenarios.
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
The zoom optics structure enhances the rangefinder's ability to accurately measure distant targets by providing a magnified view and selectively enhancing in-sight display information, thereby improving performance and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
first and second lenses moveable with respect to each other and an ocular lens of the rangefinder instrument
Data Source
AI summary
A zoom optics structure for implementation in a laser-based rangefinding instrument provides a magnified image of a target. The structure disclosed can also serve to magnify a reticle or other information on an in-sight display in conjunction with the magnified target image. The zoom optics structure disclosed is also amenable to rangefinding instruments incorporating ballistics interfaces and those having image stabilization.