GR1010276B - Magnetic switch adapter for night vision goggles - Google Patents

Abstract

A night vision goggle adapter including: a goggle mount assembly; a primary magnet generating a magnetic flux; a magnetic flux conducting unit having a first end and a second end; a first plurality of shunts; and a second plurality of shunts disposed about the goggle mount assembly; wherein the magnetic flux conducting unit may overlap the primary magnet and form a magnetic circuit for conducting the magnetic flux towards the second end of the magnetic flux conducting unit when none of the first plurality of shunts and none of the second plurality of shunts are overlapped by the magnetic flux conducting unit; and wherein the magnetic flux is shorted through one of the first plurality of shunts or the second plurality of shunts when the magnetic flux conducting unit is positioned to overlap one of the first plurality of shunts or one of the second plurality of shunts.

Description

DESCRIPTION

MAGNETIC SWITCH ADAPTER FOR NIGHT VISION DIOPTERS

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims the benefit of provisional application no. 63/061,793 entitled MAGNETIC SWITCH ADAPTER FOR NIGHT VISION GOGGLES, filed 08/05/2020; and also claims the benefit of provisional Application No. 63/061,795 entitled MAGNETIC SWITCH ADAPTER FOR NIGHT VISION GOGGLES, filed 06/08/2020, both sixes of which are incorporated herein by reference for each use.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to magnetically actuated (or actuated) switches that use magnetic flux carried by flux-conducting units by one or more magnets to actuate a magnetic sensor when certain physical alignments of the flux-conducting units occur. , and more particularly to a magnetically actuated switch for a night vision diopter socket configured to turn the night vision diopters on or off depending on the placement of the night vision diopters.

BACKGROUND

A magnetically actuated switch assembly in a helmet socket to turn night vision goggles on and off is known in the art. Conventional magnetically actuated switch assemblies use gravity to turn night vision binoculars on and off. Such gravity controlled magnetically actuated switch assemblies could cause built-in night vision diopters to turn off improperly when the night vision diopter device is inverted. A non-gravitationally controlled magnetically actuated switch assembly has been developed and is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7504918B2, incorporated into a unicycle socket by covered in U.S. Pat. No. 7735159B2, both references of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 7504918B2 discloses a non-gravitationally controlled magnetically actuated switch assembly for incorporation into a helmet socket to turn night vision goggles on and off. The disclosed magnetically actuated switch assembly includes a magnet with conductive flux members leading to a reed switch. When the conductive flux members are aligned with the north and south poles of the magnet, the magnetic reed switch opens, which provides a current path (diode) to power the night vision diopters.

The disclosed magnetically actuated switch assembly includes several air gaps between conductive flux members. Air voids increase the resistance of the magnetic flux path. With a higher resistance magnetic flux path, the magnetically actuated switch assembly is less efficient because a more sensitive magnetic reed switch must be used. If the magnetic reed switch is very sensitive, the night vision goggles could be activated by the Earth's magnetic field or other environmental magnetic fields such as those caused by nearby power lines. Additionally, the need for air gaps within the magnetic flux path places limitations on the structures in which such a magnetic switch assembly can be incorporated.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved magnetic switch assembly that can implement a lower resistance magnetic flux path. In addition, it is advantageous to incorporate a lower resistance magnetic flux path within a magnetic flux circuit that offers increased variability by providing design functionality without relying on components that increase/decrease air gap width.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of a night vision diopter adapter, a flow switch helmet mount assembly, and a dual night vision diopter adapter are described herein. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the devices described herein could be implemented with any suitable optical device, such as, but not limited to, night vision binoculars, infrared (IR) imagers, or thermal, and hybrid or combined devices that combine night vision and thermal imaging. For simplicity of description, the disclosures from here on will refer only to night vision binoculars.

A night vision diopter adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, may include: a diopter receptacle assembly; a base magnet that produces a first magnetic flux; a magnetic flux conducting unit having a first end and a second end; wherein the first end is rotatable about a first axis positioned adjacent the base magnet and the second end is coupled to a second axis located within the diopter housing assembly about which the diopter housing assembly is rotatable; a first plurality of branches arranged about from the base magnet; and a second plurality of branches arranged around the diopter receptacle assembly; wherein the magnetic flux conducting unit is configured to overlap the base magnet and form a magnetic circuit for conducting the first magnetic flux to the second end of the magnetic flux conducting unit of flow when none of the first no branch time and none of the second plurality of branches are overlapped by the magnetic flux conducting unit; and wherein the first magnetic flux is interrupted through one of the first plurality of branches or the second plurality of branches when the magnetic flux conducting unit is positioned such that one of the first a plurality of branches or one of the second plurality of branches is overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit.

A night vision diopter adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the magnetic flux conducting unit includes a pair of magnetic flux conducting units, each having a top piece and a bottom piece, configured to couple rotatably about the first axis in the piece of the top of each of the pair of magnetic flux conducting units and to be coupled on the second axis to the bottom piece of each of the pair of magnetic flux conducting units.

A night vision diopter adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, may further include: an interpupillary adjustment (IPA) torque knob; a helical member configured to fit within the diopter housing assembly along the second axis; and a compression member; wherein the torque adjustment knob IPA may be helically threaded along the helical member to increase a force exerted on the compression member by creating an increased frictional force around the second axis which prevents rotation of the magnetic flux conduction unit about the second axis.

A diopter night vision adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the compression member includes one or more thrust rings.

A night vision diopter adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the compression member includes a split tapered ring bearing.

A night vision diopter adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the diopter receptacle assembly includes a spring-loaded locking member.

A night vision diopter adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, further includes a helmet mount assembly, wherein the first shaft is located within the helmet mount assembly.

[0015] A diopter night vision adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the first plurality of branches are displaced within the helmet housing assembly about the first axis.

[0016] A diopter night vision adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, may further include: an array of claws on the helmet receiver assembly and located about the first axis; and a plurality of spring-loaded balls; wherein the spring loaded balls are configured to be compressed between the magnetic flux drive unit and the helmet mount assembly; and wherein the spring loaded balls are configured to fit partially within the claws causing the magnetic flux drive unit to be assembled in an angular position relative to the helmet mount assembly until a rotational force is applied to the magnetic flux drive unit sufficient to overcome the force holding at least one of the plurality of spring-loaded balls within one of the claw array.

[0017] A diopter night vision adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the position of the claw array corresponds to at least one position where the magnetic flux conduction unit does not overlap one of the first plurality of branches; and wherein the position of the claw array also corresponds to at least one position where the magnetic flux conduction unit actually overlaps at least one of the first plurality of branches.

[0018] A flow stop helmet receptacle assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, includes: a mounting base having: a central axis; a magnet booster disposed about the central axis and having a first polar orientation; and a magnet suppressor disposed about the central axis and offset from the magnet amplifier and having a second polar orientation; a magnetic flux conducting track assembly; and a mounting point coupled to the mounting base; wherein the magnetic flux conducting track assembly is configured to be rotatably coupled to the central axis and further configured to overlap the magnet booster at a first location and to direct a magnetic flux according to the first polar orientation along the magnetic flux conducting track assembly; and wherein the magnetic flux conducting track assembly is configured to overlap the magnet suppressor at a second location and i to conduct a magnetic flux according to the second polar orientation along the magnetic flux conducting track set.

[0019] A flux-stop helmet receptacle assembly, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, may further include: a sliding flux-conducting unit configured to mate with the magnetic flux-conducting track assembly and slide along a portion of the magnetic flux-conducting track assembly .

[0020] A flow stop helmet receptacle assembly, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the base further includes: a first lobe configured to receive the booster magnet; and a second lobe configured to receive the suppressor magnet.

[0021] A flux interruption helmet receptacle assembly, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the base further includes: a locking mechanism configured to selectively retain the magnetic flux conduction track assembly in the first position or the second position.

[0022] A flux-stop helmet receptacle assembly, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the magnetic flux conduction path assembly includes at least two magnetic flux conduction paths.

A night vision diopter adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, includes: a first diopter receptacle assembly; a first magnet that generates a first magnetic flux; and a first magnetic flux conduction unit having a first end and a second end , wherein the first end is rotatable about a first axis positioned adjacent the first magnet and the second end is coupled to a second axis located within the first diopter mount assembly about which the first diopter mount assembly is rotatable; wherein the first magnetic flux conducting unit is configured to overlap the first magnet and form a first magnetic circuit for conducting the first magnetic flux toward the second end of the first magnetic flux conducting unit; and wherein the first magnetic flux conducted through the first magnetic circuit is reduced when the first magnetic flux conduction unit is installed yr so that the first magnet is not overlapped by the first magnetic flux conduction unit.

[0024] A night vision diopter adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, may further include: a first shunt positioned about the second axis within the first diopter receptacle assembly; wherein the first magnetic flux is interrupted through the first shunt when the a first magnetic flux conducting unit is positioned relative to the first diopter receptacle assembly such that the first branch is overlapped by the first magnetic flux conducting unit.

A night vision diopter adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, may further include: a second diopter receptacle assembly; a second magnet that generates a second magnetic flux; a second magnetic flux conduction unit having a third end and a a fourth end, wherein the third end is rotatable about a third axis positioned adjacent the second magnet and the fourth end is coupled to a fourth axis located within the second diopter holder assembly about which the second diopter holder assembly is rotatable; and wherein the second magnetic flux conducting unit is configured to overlap the second magnet and form a second magnetic circuit for conducting the second magnetic flux toward the fourth end of the second magnetic flux conducting unit; and wherein the second magnetic flux conducted through the second magnetic circuit decreases when the second m magnetic flux conducting unit is positioned such that the second magnet is not overlapped by the second magnetic flux conducting unit.

A night vision diopter adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, further comprising: a second shunt positioned about the fourth axis within the second diopter socket assembly; wherein the second magnetic flux is interrupted through the second shunt when the second unit magnetic flux conducting unit is positioned relative to the second diopter receptacle assembly such that the second branch is overlapped by the second magnetic flux conducting unit.

[0027] A night vision diopter adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, may further include: a first secondary shunt positioned about the first axis and configured to interrupt the first magnetic flux directed within the first magnetic circuit when the first magnetic flux conducting unit is placed so that the first magnetic flux conducting unit overlaps the first secondary branch.

A night vision diopter adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, may further include: a second secondary shunt displaced about the third axis and configured to interrupt the second magnetic flux directed within the second magnetic circuit when the second magnetic flux conducting unit is positioned such that the second magnetic flux conducting unit overlaps the second secondary branch.

[0029] A night vision diopter adapter, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, may further include: an abutment positioned between the first axis and the third axis and configured to mechanically limit rotation of the first magnetic flux conduction unit about the first axis and to mechanically limit the rotation of the second magnetic flux conducting unit about the third axis such that a minimum distance between the first diopter receptacle assembly and the second diopter receptacle assembly is maintained.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the following figures. Figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0031] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a diopter night vision adapter in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 2A is an exploded view of a diopter night vision adapter including a split tapered ring bearing in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 2B is an exploded view of a diopter night vision adapter including a split tapered ring bearing in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 2C is an illustration of alternative interaural torque adjustment (IPA) knobs that may be used with a night vision diopter adapter in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a partially exploded view of a diopter night vision adapter in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 4A is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter in a right eye use position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 4B is a perspective view from a forward angle of a diopter night vision adapter in a right eye use position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 4C is a possible rearward angle view of a diopter night vision adapter in a right eye use position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a diopter night vision adapter in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a simplified illustration of a magnetic switch circuit in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 7A is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter coupled to a night vision diopter in a right eye use position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 7B is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter coupled to a night vision diopter in a basic right eye storage position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 7C is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter coupled to a night vision diopter in a secondary right eye storage location in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 8A is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter coupled to a night vision diopter in a basic right eye storage position including arrows illustrating the direction of magnetic flux passage and a representation of the approximate position and condition of the magnetic switch in a basic right eye storage position eye according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 8B is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter coupled to a night vision diopter in a secondary right eye storage location including arrows illustrating the direction of magnetic flux passage and a representation of the approximate position and condition of the magnetic switch in a secondary right eye storage location; eye according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 8C is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter coupled to a night vision diopter in a third right eye storage position including arrows illustrating the direction of magnetic flux passage and a representation of the approximate position and condition of the magnetic switch in a third right eye storage position eye according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly, with some components omitted for clarity, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 9B is a perspective view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly, with some components omitted for clarity, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 10 is a simplified diagram of a magnetic flux circuit including flux interrupter magnets that represents magnetic flux reaching a magnetic switch in a location of use in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 11 is a simplified diagram of a magnetic flux circuit including flux interrupter magnets that represents the magnetic flux reaching a magnetic switch at a storage location in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 12A is a front view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly coupled to a diopter night vision adapter as worn by a user in a right eye position of use in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 12B is a side view of a flow stop helmet socket assembly coupled to a diopter night vision adapter as worn by a user in a right eye position of use in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 13A is a front view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly coupled to a diopter night vision adapter, as worn by a user, in a basic right eye storage position in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 13B is a side view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly coupled to a night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a basic right eye storage position in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] FIG. 14A is a front view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly mated to a night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a rotated right eye storage position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 14B is a side view of a flow stop helmet socket assembly mated to a night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a turned basic right eye storage position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 15A is a front view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly mated to a night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a rotated right eye secondary storage position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 15B is a side view of a flow stop helmet socket assembly mated to a night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a rotated right eye secondary storage position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] FIG. 16 is a front view of a dual night vision diopter adapter in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 17A is a front view of a dual night vision diopter adapter in a left eye use / right eye use position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 17B is a front view of a dual night vision diopter adapter in a basic left eye storage position / right eye use position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] FIG. 17C is a front view of a dual night vision diopter adapter in a basic left eye storage position / basic right eye storage position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] FIG. 17D is a front view of a dual night vision diopter adapter in a secondary left eye storage position / secondary right eye storage position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 17E is a possible view of a dual night vision diopter adapter in a secondary left eye storage position / secondary right eye storage position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 17F is a side view of a dual night vision diopter adapter in a secondary left eye storage position / secondary right eye storage position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] FIG. 18A is a front view of a flow stop helmet socket assembly coupled to a dual night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a right eye use / left eye use position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] FIG. 18B is a side view of a flow stop helmet socket assembly coupled to a dual night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a right eye use / left eye use position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] FIG. 19A is a front view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly coupled to a dual night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a right eye use position / left eye secondary storage position in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] FIG. 19B is a side view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly coupled to a dual night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a right eye use position / left eye secondary storage position in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] FIG. 20A is a front view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly coupled to a dual night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a third right eye storage position / third left eye storage position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] FIG. 20B is a side view of a flow stop helmet socket assembly mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a third right eye storage position / third left eye storage position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] FIG. 21A is a front view of a flow stop helmet socket assembly mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a rotated right eye secondary storage position / left eye secondary storage position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 21B is a side view of a flow stop helmet socket assembly mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a rotated right eye secondary storage position / left eye secondary storage position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] FIG. 22A is a front view of a flow stop helmet socket assembly mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a rotated right eye third storage / left eye third storage position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] FIG. 22B is a side view of a flow stop helmet socket assembly mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter as worn by a user in a rotated right eye third storage / left eye third storage position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Features of the inventive concept and methods of implementing the same may be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description of embodiments and the accompanying figures. The present invention, however, may be embodied in many different forms, and should not be construed as being limited to only the embodiments illustrated herein. Instead, these embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the aspects and features of the present invention to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, processes, elements, and techniques not necessary to those of ordinary skill in the art for a full understanding of the aspects and features of the present invention may not be described. Unless otherwise noted, like reference numerals denote like elements throughout the attached figures and written description, and therefore, their descriptions will not be repeated. In the figures, the relative sizes of elements, layers, and regions may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0077] A magnetically actuated switch can be controlled according to the relative positions of associated magnetic flux affecting components. For example, a magnetically actuated switch may be actuated based on the position of one or more devices such as one or more magnets, one or more magnetic flux conducting units, one or more flux branches, and a magnet sensor.

[0078] In some embodiments the magnetically actuated switch uses magnetic flux from a permanent magnet to actuate a magnet sensor when a sufficiently large amount of magnetic flux produced by the permanent magnet is present in the magnet sensor. In some embodiments a magnet sensor may be actuated by moving one or more magnetic flux conducting units and/or flux shunts that change the path of the magnetic flux within the magnetic circuit, and change the corresponding magnitude of the magnetic flux presented to the magnet sensor. Some embodiments of the present disclosure use a type of magnet sensor called a magnetic reed switch. In some embodiments, magnetic reed switches that close only in the presence of a sufficiently strong magnetic field are used. Magnetic reed switches can have various operating parameters, as will be appreciated by one skilled in the art. In some embodiments, reed switches may be rated at 10-15 ampere turns, which may be used with a magnet that provides between 10-25 gauss magnetic field at the location of the reed switch. However, as will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, various combinations of magnetic reed switches and magnets, having different sensitivities and strengths, respectively, may be used within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0079] In conventional magnetic switches, position sensing accuracy has generally been poor as position sensing is highly dependent on the magnet's field strength which varies with temperature, initial magnetization, and the sensitivity of the magnet sensor. In addition, specific magnetic switch applications require careful balancing of the flux fields of multiple magnets to achieve their desired effects. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, these variables that reduce position sensing accuracy within the magnetic switch may be mitigated through the use of components that can conduct magnetic flux from a magnet to a magnetic sensor, such as a magnetic reed switch.

[0080] According to Maxwell's equations, magnetic flux always forms a closed loop. However, the closed loop path depends on the resistance of the materials surrounding the magnet. That is, a magnetic circuit / flux path of low resistance materials can be used to direct magnetic flux along a specific path. The resistance of such a magnetic circuit is proportional to the length of the circuit and is inversely proportional to the magnetic permeability of the material used in the circuit and the cross-sectional area of the circuit. Therefore, magnetic switch assemblies may be incorporated that include a low resistance magnetic flux path to handle the passage of magnetic flux within the magnetic switch assembly.

[0081] Through the addition of magnetic flux conduction units, which can alter the path taken by the magnetic flux of a magnet within a magnetic switch assembly, performance and reliability of the magnetically actuated switch assembly can be improved. Magnetic flux conduction units can be incorporated using various materials having a relatively high magnetic permeability. These materials may include, but are not limited to: magnetic metals such as iron, ferrite, mild steel, etc.; Mu-metal; Alloy with high magnetic permeability and low hysteresis loss (Permalloy); nickel-iron alloy; silicon steel; carbon steels (such as AISI 12L14 carbon steel); and nickel. Magnetic flux conduction units made of one or more of these materials may also include plating of any suitable material, such as nickel for example. In some embodiments, the magnetic flux conduction units may preferably be incorporated using magnetically "soft" metals, i.e., metals in which a magnetic field produced within the metal by the presence of a magnet quickly collapses when the magnet is removed or shielded from the metal. .

One such use for a magnetically actuated switch is to turn on/off night vision goggles (NVG) mounted on a helmet mount. The helmet mount may incorporate a magnetically actuated switch to activate the NVGs when the NVGs are in an in-use position and to deactivate the NVGs when they are in a stowed position. Of course, a magnetically actuated switch may also be useful in other interfaces where the interface components move relative to each other and where the position of the switch is determined by the relative position of the interface components relative to each other.

[0083] The magnetically actuated switch, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, is designed to conduct sufficient flux from the magnet to a magnet sensor, such as for example a magnetic reed switch, to actuate the switch. In addition, the magnetically actuated switch provides alternative magnetic flux paths of different magnetic resistance that may vary the amount of magnetic flux presented to the magnet sensor. In one embodiment, by providing magnetic flux conducting units (one for the flux to the magnet sensor and the other as a return path to the magnet), henceforth such a pair of flux conducting units may be referred to as a single flux conducting unit, and a plurality of flux branches that can function as alternative paths for conducting magnetic flux when one of the plurality of flux branches is located between the pair of magnetic flux conducting units, a magnetically actuated switch assembly can be operated by varying the placement of the magnetic flux conducting units flow. In other words, the magnetic flux passing through a given magnetic circuit/switch moves through a magnetic flux conducting unit to a magnet sensor and then returns to the source in a closed loop via the magnetic flux conducting unit return path unless one or more flux branches are overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit so that a "short" (much lower resistance) path is created which prevents the magnetic flux from reaching the magnet sensor. In addition, provision of a pair of magnetic flux conduction units allows the magnetically actuated switch to operate over a wide temperature range despite variations in permanent magnet intensity over temperature and varying magnet sensor sensitivity.

In addition to the use of flow conduits, exemplary embodiments of the present invention may include a plurality of flow branches. By moving the flux conductors into alignment with an adjacent flux shunt, or vice versa, at least a portion of the flux can be interrupted via an alternate path when a shunt is overlapped by a magnetic flux conducting unit, thereby removing most of the magnetic flux from the magnet sensor. In some embodiments, the reduction in magnetic flux experienced by the magnet sensor may be sufficient to prevent activation of the magnet sensor by magnetic flux from the magnet.

As discussed above, the magnetic resistance of a magnetic circuit is proportional to the length of the circuit and is inversely proportional to the magnetic permeability of the material used in the circuit and the cross-sectional area of the circuit. Accordingly, various modifications to the exemplary embodiments described herein may be made to reduce the length of the circuit, increase the magnetic permeability of the circuit, or increase the cross-sectional area of the circuit. Additionally, because the weight of the magnetic circuit may also be an important consideration, various modifications to the exemplary embodiments of the magnetic circuits described herein may be made to vary the weight of the magnetic circuit in relation to the resistance of the magnetic circuit. For example, a heavier material of higher magnetic permeability can be used for the magnetic circuit, while reducing the cross-sectional area of the circuit, so that an overall weight of the magnetic circuit is reduced while a lower resistance of the magnetic circuit is achieved.

[0086] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a diopter night vision adapter 10 in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. A magnet 100 is shown in a cylindrical shape according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The magnet 100 may be produced from various magnetic materials, such as, for example, iron, cobalt, nickel, neodymium, and Alnico alloy materials or various other alloys as would be known to one of skill in the art. In terms of magnet strength, some embodiments may use magnets capable of providing a magnetic field of 10-25 gauss to the magnet sensor. Magnet 100 may be of any strength suitable to meet the magnetic flux magnitude needs of a particular embodiment as will be appreciated by one of skill in the art. The magnet 100 is intended to fit within a magnet housing 108 of a helmet mount assembly 116. As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the shape, dimensions, composition, and intensity of the magnet 100 may be varied to meet the needs of different designs and /or accessories. Likewise, the size and shape of the magnet housing 108 may be varied to accommodate different magnets 100 within the scope of the present disclosure. Magnet housing 108 may be formed from a low magnetic permeability metal or plastic such as aluminum, nylon, or a thermoplastic polyimide resin such as Ultem<®> or Grivory<®>. Ultem<®>is a registered trademark of General Electric. Grivory<®>is a registered trademark of EMS-GRIVORY. Other materials of suitable intensity and magnetic permeability as would be known to one of skill in the art may be used within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0087] A first plurality of flow branches 102 are illustrated and each flow branch 102 of the first plurality corresponds to one of a first plurality of flow branch housings 110. The first plurality of flow branch housings 110 may be incorporated into the helmet receptacle assembly 116. A second plurality of branches flow junction 103 may be used, in some embodiments, and each of the second plurality of flux junctions 103 may correspond to one of a second plurality of flux junction housings 111. The second plurality of flux junction housings may be incorporated within a diopter housing assembly 114. flow branches of the first plurality of flow branches 102 are sized to fit within the first plurality of flow branch housings 110. Similarly, the flow branches of the second plurality of flow branches 103 are sized to fit within the second plurality of flow branch housings 111. As will cat understood by one skilled in the art, the size and shape of the flow branches (102 and 103) and flow branch housings (110 and 111) may be varied to meet different design needs.

[0088] A magnetic flux conducting unit 104, shown as a pair but referred to herein as a single magnetic flux conducting unit, may be rotatably coupled at a first end to the helmet socket assembly 116 on a first shaft 122 using a retaining bolt 106 and at a second end to the diopter socket assembly 114 on a second shaft 112 using another bolt or helical member assembly (not shown). Some embodiments may include both of these pivoting connections to provide an axis of rotation for the magnetic flux conduction unit 104 about the first axis 122, and to provide an axis of rotation for the diopter housing assembly 114 about the second axis 112. Others embodiments may include only one rotary connection and thus omit a pivot. Various locking positions may be made available around the first retaining unit using, in some embodiments, an array of claws 124 and spring-loaded balls (not shown). The position of the claws 124 about the first shaft 122 can be configured to allow the magnetic flux conduction unit 104 to be held in various positions. These positions may, in some embodiments, correspond to "use" and "storage" positions for the diopter night vision adapter 10. The size and composition of the springs and balls may be varied to meet different design needs of different embodiments of the adapter. night vision scope 10, such as increasing the pressure exerted on the spheres by the springs to increase the amount of force required to displace the spheres from the claws 124. Similarly, the geometry and depth of the claws 124 can be varied to vary the amount of force required to displace a retained ball from the nails 124. In some embodiments, nails 124 having angled walls corresponding to points of contact along the surfaces of the spring-loaded balls may be used, as this may allow for increased wear resistance. and increased safety k, dld, less variation, in retaining the spring-loaded balls within the claws 124. In some embodiments, the use of claws 124 to identify locations in which the magnetic flux-conducting unit 104 may be assembled is beneficial in helping a user to quickly determines if the rotation of the magnetic flux conduction unit 104 has been sufficient to reach the next holding position by providing a mechanical touch communication, or "click" that a user can feel. In connection with the use of a nail array 124, one of skill in the art will appreciate the variations of such arrays that may be used within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0089] A front/rear adjustment lever 118 may be included in the night vision diopter adapter 10 to allow adjustment of a connection between the night vision diopter adapter 10 and a helmet mount (not shown). This fore/aft adjustment lever 118 may, in some embodiments, be used to adjust an amount of force exerted by a locking mechanism on a structure to which the night vision diopter adapter 10 is coupled. The locking mechanism may, in some embodiments, allow the night vision diopter adapter 10 to be retained on the helmet mounting assembly (not shown) by increasing the amount of frictional force exerted by the locking mechanism on the helmet mounting assembly (not shown) when the front/ rear adjustment lever 118 rotates. In connection with these types of mechanisms, one of skill in the art will appreciate the variations of such mechanisms that could be used within the scope of the present disclosure to meet changing design needs.

[0090] An interaural adjustment (IPA) torque adjustment knob 120 may also be included and connected to the second axis 112 to allow variation of the torque required to rotate the diopter holder assembly 114 about the second axis 112. This adjustability may allow a reduction in torque required to rotate the diopter holder assembly 114 which provides for easier fine-tuning of night vision diopter placement (not shown) relative to a user's pupil, and also allows an increase in torque required to rotate the diopter holder assembly 114 which may facilitate holding the position set by a user. Further illustration of the torque adjustment knob IPA 120 can be found in FIG. 2A-C illustrating exploded views of some of the components of the diopter holder assembly 114 including those associated with the IPA torque adjustment knob 120, as well as various embodiments of the IPA torque adjustment knob 120.

[0091] The IPA torque adjustment knob 120 can be configured to screw along a helical member (208 of FIG. 2A) that has flattened ends to ensure that it cannot freely rotate within the second shaft 112. Tightening the Adjustment Knob of torque IPA 120 causes it to push against a compression fitting (not shown). In some embodiments, the compression member may be one or more thrust rings (302 FIG. 3). The compression fitting will be described in more detail below with respect to FIG. 2A-C and 3. Increased force applied to the compression member increases the friction between the compression member and the magnetic flux conducting units 104 or along the helical member (208 FIG. 2A). This allows a frictional force between the compression member and the magnetic flux-conducting units 104 or a frictional force about the second axis 112 to hold the orientation of the diopter housing assembly 114 relative to the magnetic flux-conducting units 104 when tightened, or, at lower pressures, increases the control a user has in positioning the diopter night vision device. Additionally, the angular position of the diopter housing assembly 114 is infinitely adjustable about the second axis 112 within its range of motion. As will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a balance between the forces required to overcome the nails 124 (described above) and the force required to overcome the frictional force is controlled by the IPA torque adjustment knob 120 may, in some embodiments, be accomplished such that a user can one-handedly fine-tune the difocal position of a diopter night vision device or reposition the diopter night vision device into a storage location. Thus, in some embodiments, the IPA torque adjustment knob 120 may be used in conjunction with the claws 124 to facilitate one-handed operation of the device of the present disclosure.

[0092] FIG. 2A is an exploded view of a diopter night vision adapter 10, with some components omitted for clarity, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. A retainer unit 204 may be used within the night vision diopter adapter 10 by extending through the body of the helmet receiver assembly 116 (not shown) along the first axis 122. The retainer unit 204 may be helically cut at one or both ends and shaped have a means for retaining one or more retaining bolts 106. The retaining means may include, but are not limited to, mating threads or other structures, such as for example a "lance" type socket, which may secure the retaining unit 204 in one or more retaining bolts 106. Any suitable retaining means may be used within the scope of the present disclosure, and the use of different variations of these retaining means to meet various design constraints will be appreciated by one of skill in the art.

The IPA torque adjustment knob 120 is shown in alignment, along a path corresponding to the second axis 112 described above with respect to FIG. 1, with a split tapered ring bearing 202, a ring 206, and a helical member 208. The helical member 208 includes a flattened end 209 that is configured to be formed by a corresponding recess 211 on the magnetic flux conducting unit 104. As described above, these components, when coupled along the second axis 112 allow an increased amount of frictional force to be applied along the helical member 208 when the IPA torque adjustment knob 120 is turned along the threads of the helical member 208 without the use of additional tools. This increased friction provides control over the positioning of the diopter holder assembly 114 about the second axis 112 and holds the position of the diopter holder assembly 114 as adjusted by a user. The flattened end 209, when assembled within the corresponding recess 211 of the magnetic flux conducting unit 104 prevents the helical member 208 from rotating upon rotation of the IPA torque adjustment knob 120 and, therefore, facilitates increasing or decreasing friction around the helicoidal member 208. Adjustment in position of the diopter housing assembly 114 can be made by applying a sufficient amount of torque to overcome the frictional force exerted along the second shaft 112, and turning the IPA torque adjustment knob 120 in a reverse direction along the threads of the helical member 208 decompresses the tapered ring bearing 202 and makes fitting easier. Similarly, the position of the diopter housing assembly 114 can be adjusted by turning the IPA torque adjustment knob 120, i.e. along the threads of the helical member 208. For example, in some embodiments, turning the IPA torque adjustment knob 120 in one direction clockwise can increase the frictional force, and a counterclockwise rotation can decrease the applied frictional force. In some embodiments, using this type of component, the placement of the diopter socket assembly 114 is infinitely adjustable within its range of motion. In some embodiments, the amount of frictional force can be varied to control the position of a night vision diopter device by either being of a high enough magnitude to generally hold the night vision diopter in place, or being of only a sufficient magnitude to make it more difficult to rotate during one-handed operation. In addition, the use of friction to control the position of the night vision binocular device may allow impacts to displace the device, which may, in some cases, prevent breakage of the device or reduce an amount of force transferred from the impact to the user.

[0094] FIG. 2B is an exploded view of a night vision diopter adapter including a split tapered ring bearing, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, with the orientation of the components arranged along the second axis 112 reversed. The placement of the IPA 120 torque adjustment knob can be reversed according to user preference. The function of these parts remains the same, but the IPA 120 torque adjustment knob can be mounted in a rear-facing (while in one use position) configuration.

[0095] FIG. 2C is an illustration of alternative interaural torque adjustment (IPA) knobs that may be used with a night vision diopter adapter in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the IPA torque adjustment knob 120 may be embodied in various configurations that provide one or more contact surfaces for a user. The contact surfaces may be, in some embodiments, lobes or extensions that provide a lever arm for turning the IPA torque adjustment knob 120. As shown, embodiments including single, dual, triple, and quadruple contact surfaces may be used within the scope of this disclosure. Likewise, as will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the length of the contact surfaces, as well as any texture of the contact surfaces, may be varied according to the needs of a user.

[0096] FIG. 3 is a partially exploded view of a diopter night vision adapter 10 in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. Illustrated along the second shaft 112 are the IPA torque adjustment knob 120, a first thrust ring 302 and a second thrust ring 312, and helical member 208. Also depicted is a locking mechanism for retaining a diopter night vision device in the socket assembly. diopter 114. Here a locking plate 310 having a wedge shape is spring loaded, by spring 308, and intended to fit within a locking notch (not shown) on a diopter night vision device (also not shown). In some embodiments, more than one spring 308 may be used. The spring 308 is coupled to screws 306 that attach to the lock actuator 304. Raising the lock actuator 304 relieves the spring load on the lock plate 310 and allows it to slide up and out of the locking notch which releases the night vision diopter. In some embodiments, the lock plate 310 may feature an asymmetrical shape having a first angle of approximately 45 degrees and a second angle of approximately 15 degrees. Variation of these angles within 10-20 degrees is within the scope of the present disclosure, and such variation in design will be appreciated by one of skill in the art based on design need.

[0097] Further illustration of the night vision diopter adapter 10 can be seen in FIG. 4A-C illustrating embodiments of assembled night vision diopter adapter 10 from various perspectives.

[0098] FIG. 4A is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter 10 in a right eye use position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] FIG. 4B is a perspective view from a forward angle of a diopter night vision adapter 10 in a right eye use position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00100] FIG. 4C is a possible back-angle view of a diopter night vision adapter 10 in a right eye use position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00101] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a diopter night vision adapter 10 (not shown) in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. Illustrated herein is a partially exploded view of a dovetail adapter plate 502 and spring-loaded POGO assembly 504. The dovetail adapter plate 502 may include a spring-loaded POGO assembly 504 to provide an electrical connection to contacts contained on some diopter devices. night vision, such as a PVS 14 diopter night vision. The spring-loaded contact between the contacts of the night vision diopter and the spring-loaded POGO assembly 504 may allow a secure contact between the spring-loaded POGO assembly 504 and the electrical contacts of the night vision diopter in various orientations and conditions while the diopter night vision diopter assembly 114. In some embodiments, a gasket 503 may also be provided around the POGO assembly 504 to ensure that the integrity of the electrical contact with the night vision diopter is not degraded by external conditions such as water or humidity. In some embodiments, dovetail adapter plate 502 may accommodate a magnet sensor, such as a magnetic reed switch (described below with respect to FIG. 6 ). The dovetail adapter plate 502 may, in some embodiments, be secured by one or more set screws 516.

[00102] FIG. 6 is a simplified illustration of a magnetic switch circuit in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, a magnet 100 is positioned between the component arms of the magnetic flux drive unit 104. The magnetic flux drive unit 104 conducts magnetic flux from the magnet 100 to the magnet sensor 602 housed within the dovetail adapter 502. The magnet sensor 602 is connected in communication with the spring loaded POGO assembly 504 which interfaces with the electrical contacts 604 of the night vision diopter. The magnet sensor 602, depicted herein as a magnetic reed switch, is in a closed configuration, which would allow current to pass between the electrical contacts 604 of the night vision diopter and activate it. As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, in some embodiments, this operation may be reversed in terms of opening/closing the reed switch (switch actuation) based on the amount of magnetic flux present in the magnet sensor 602, e.g., configurations where the increased amount of magnetic flux causing magnet sensor 602 to assume an open configuration is within the scope of the present disclosure. Similarly, a diopter night vision device may have its actuation varied by either opening or closing a circuit containing the magnet sensor 602, and the components described herein may be adapted, and in some embodiments reversed, to accommodate such devices.

[00103] The location of an attached night vision diopter in the "use" and various "storage" positions can be better understood by reference to FIG. 7A-C.

[00104] FIG. 7A is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter coupled to a night vision diopter in a right eye use position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Of course, an inverted position, ie, a position corresponding to use with a user's left eye may also be possible with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[00105] FIG. 7B is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter coupled to a night vision diopter in a basic right eye storage position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Of course, an inverted position, i.e., a position corresponding to base stacking relative to a left eye of a user may also be possible with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[00106] FIG. 7C is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter coupled to a night vision diopter in a secondary right eye storage location in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Of course, an inverted position, ie, a position corresponding to secondary stacking relative to a left eye of a user may also be possible with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[00107] The passage of magnetic flux through the magnetic circuit when the night vision diopter adapter 10 is configured in a "storage" position can be better understood by reference to FIG. 8A-C.

[00108] FIG. 8A is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter 10 coupled to a night vision diopter in a basic right eye storage position including arrows illustrating the direction of magnetic flux passage and a representation of the approximate location and state of the magnetic switch 602 in a basic position right eye storage according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the magnetic flux from the magnet 100 is not directed entirely within the magnetic circuit. Therefore, the arrows represent a generalization of passing magnetic flux from the magnet 100 to one of the second plurality of flux branches 103 overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit 104 while the night vision diopter adapter 10 is in a "storage" position. Additionally, the representation of magnet sensor 602 is shown to indicate that, in an embodiment where magnet sensor 602 is a magnetic reed switch, the attached night vision diopter will be disabled due to the “break” in the magnetic flux directed to magnet sensor 602 through one of the second plurality of flow branches 103.

[00109] FIG. 8B is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter 10 coupled to a night vision diopter in a secondary right eye storage position including arrows illustrating the direction of magnetic flux passage and a representation of the approximate location and state of the magnetic switch 602 in a secondary position right eye storage according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the magnetic flux from the magnet 100 is not completely directed within the magnetic circuit. As such, the arrows represent a generalization of magnetic flux passage from magnet 100 to one of a first plurality of flux branches 102 overlapped by magnetic flux conduction unit 104 while night vision diopter adapter 10 is in a "storage" position. Additionally, the representation of magnet sensor 602 is shown to indicate that, in an embodiment where magnet sensor 602 is a magnetic reed switch, the attached night vision diopter will be disabled due to the “break” in the magnetic flux directed to magnet sensor 602 through one of the first plurality of flow branches 102.

[00110] FIG. 8C is a front view of a night vision diopter adapter 10 coupled to a night vision diopter in a third right eye storage position including arrows illustrating the direction of magnetic flux passage and a representation of the approximate location and state of the magnetic switch 602 in a third position right eye storage according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the magnetic flux from the magnet 100 is not directed entirely within the magnetic circuit. Therefore, the arrows represent a generalization of the magnetic flux passage from the magnet 100 to one of the first plurality of flux branches 102 and one of the second plurality of flux branches 103 overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit 104 while the night vision diopter adapter 10 is in a "storage" location. Additionally, the representation of magnet sensor 602 is shown to indicate that, in an embodiment where magnet sensor 602 is a magnetic reed switch, the attached night vision diopter will be disabled due to the “break” in the magnetic flux directed to magnet sensor 602 through one of the first plurality of flow branches 102 and one of the second plurality of flow branches 103.

[00111] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90, with some components omitted for clarity, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. Here a mounting base 900 is illustrated containing a track pivot or pivot point 902, a magnet booster 910, and a magnet suppressor 908 for use in a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. Also shown are front/rear flux-conducting tracks included in a magnetic flux-conducting track assembly 912. The magnetic flux-conducting track assembly 912 is pivotally coupled to the central axis 902 of the mounting base 900, although the structure connecting these components is omitted in the figure for clarity. A night vision diopter adapter 10, as described above, may be mounted on the magnetic flux guide track assembly 912. Not all components of the night vision diopter adapter 10 are shown in the figure for clarity, however the magnet 100 (shown as attached smaller magnets) and the magnetic flux conduction unit 104 are illustrated. Flux transfer slips 914 connect the magnetic flux conducting unit 104 to the magnetic flux conducting track assembly 912 in some embodiments so that the magnetic flux can be directed from the magnet amplifier 910 and magnet suppressor 908 of the mounting base 900 into the magnetic circuit of the diopter adapter. night vision device 10. Flux concentrators 916 are also shown connected to the magnetic flux directing units 104. The flux concentrators 916 may function, in some embodiments, to focus the magnetic flux directed through the magnetic circuit proximate the magnet sensor 602 (not shown ).

[00112] The flux cutoff helmet mount assembly 90 may, in some embodiments, enable additional cutoff functions for the night vision diopter adapter 10 by using magnet booster 910 and magnet suppressor 908 to redirect magnetic flux within the night vision diopter adapter's magnetic circuit. 10. Magnetic flux redirection within the magnetic circuit may be accomplished by directing flux from either the magnet booster 910 or the magnet suppressor 908 into the magnetic circuit via the magnetic flux conducting track assembly 912 and the flux transfer sliders 914. As will be appreciated to one of skill in the art, the magnetic flux conductance varies according to the configuration of the flux interruption helmet receptacle assembly 90 and, therefore, the same materials described for construction of the diopter night vision adapter 10 may, in some embodiments, be used for flow stop helmet socket assembly components 90. Similarly, those materials and magnetic field strengths previously described for base magnet 100 are applicable to both the composition, and strengths, of magnet booster 910 and magnet suppressor 908. In some embodiments, strengths of magnet amplifier 910 and magnet suppressor 908 may be greater than that of base magnet 100. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, any suitable strengths for magnet amplifier 910 and magnet suppressor 908 may be used within the range of of this disclosure.

[00113] The booster magnet 910 may be oriented so that its polar alignment is shared with that of the magnet 100. This shared polar alignment may, in some embodiments, cause magnetic flux from the North Pole of the magnet 100 to be repelled by the magnetic flux from the North pole of the magnet amplifier 910 and directed along the magnetic flux conducting units 104 to the magnet sensor 602 (not shown). This can, in some embodiments, increase the amount of magnetic flux directed to magnet sensor 602 (not shown) and cause the sensor to activate and light an attached night vision diopter. As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the variation in magnetic flux induced by the magnet 100 when the flux-stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 when in an "o" position can be manipulated by varying the materials, magnetic intensity of magnet 100, or the sensitivity of the magnet sensor 602 (not shown) to achieve the desired function of an attached night vision diopter (not shown). The passage of magnetic flux in the "on" position can be further understood by reference to FIG. 10.

[00114] In an “off” position, where the magnetic flux conducting track assembly 912 is rotated such that the suppressor magnet 908 is in close proximity to, or overlapped by, the magnetic flux conducting track assembly 912, the suppressor magnet 908 is in opposite polar alignment with magnet 100. This opposite polar alignment may, in some embodiments, cause magnetic flux from the North pole of magnet 100 to be attracted to the magnetic flux from the South pole of suppressor magnet 908 such that the amount of flux directed to magnet sensor 602 (not shown) is reduced causing it to be in an open configuration which in turn turns off an attached night vision diopter (not shown). As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the variation in magnetic flux induced by the magnet 100 when the flux-stop helmet housing assembly 90 when in an "off" position can be manipulated by varying the materials, magnetic intensity of magnet 100, or the sensitivity of the magnet sensor 602 (not shown) to achieve the desired function of an attached night vision diopter (not shown). The passage of magnetic flux in the "off" position can be further understood by reference to FIG. 11.

[00115] The mounting base 900 of the flux-stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 may also include a locking mechanism that can be mated to the mounting base 900 in a through hole 904. Any type of locking mechanism may retain the magnetic flux-conducting track assembly 912 in the "o" and "off" positions and to be released by a user to facilitate switching between the "on" and "off" positions can be used. In some embodiments, a friction lock may be used which may be released by depressing a corresponding button (not shown).

[00116] Also shown is a helmet mounting point 906 mated to the mounting base 900. Any suitable structure intended to removably mate to a corresponding socket on a helmet (not shown), such as a dovetail or T-track socket, may is used within the scope of this disclosure.

[00117] FIG. 9B is a perspective view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90, omitting some components for clarity, in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. This illustration includes an additional tertiary magnet 920 positioned adjacent to the magnetic flux conducting track assembly 912. The tertiary magnet 920 may be used in conjunction with the other magnetic components described above to adjust the amount of magnetic flux directed into the magnetic circuit of an attached night vision diopter adapter 10.

[00118] FIG. 10 is a simplified diagram of a magnetic flux circuit of a night vision diopter adapter 10 in use with a flux-stop helmet mount assembly 90 that represents the magnetic flux reaching a magnetic sensor 602 (shown as a magnetic reed switch) in a position " o'', according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The polar orientation of the booster magnet 910 is illustrated in alignment with the polar orientation of the magnet 100 (alternatively referred to as the base magnet 100). As shown, the North poles of both the amplifier magnet 910 and the magnet 100 repel each other. This repulsion directs an increased amount of magnetic flux from the magnet 100 to the magnet sensor 602 (shown as a magnetic reed switch) through the flux conducting track assembly 912 and the magnetic flux conducting unit 104 causing the switch to close. In this embodiment, the off switch causes an attached night vision diopter to turn on.

[00119] FIG. 11 is a simplified diagram of a magnetic flux circuit of a night vision diopter adapter 10 in use with a flux-stop helmet mount assembly 90 that represents the magnetic flux reaching a magnetic sensor 602 (shown as a magnetic reed switch) in a position " off", according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The polar orientation of suppressor magnet 908 is illustrated in contrast to the polar orientation of magnet 100 (alternatively referred to as base magnet 100). As shown, the South pole of suppressor magnet 908 and the North pole of magnet 100 attract each other. This attraction directs a reduced amount of magnetic flux from the magnet 100 to the magnet sensor 602 (shown as a magnetic reed switch) through the flux conducting track assembly 912 and the magnetic flux conducting unit 104 causing the switch to be open. In this embodiment, the on switch causes an attached night vision diopter to turn off.

[00120] The use of the stop-flow helmet mount assembly 90 can, in some embodiments, provide an additional pivot around which an attached night vision diopter can be mounted while also providing an additional stop function for the night vision diopter adapter 10 .This may, in some embodiments, be beneficial in providing additional storage locations for an attached night vision diopter where the device is turned off while in a stored location. The use of the flow stop helmet socket assembly 90 may, in some embodiments, be used in conjunction with the stop functions provided by the use of a first plurality of flow branches 102 and/or the second plurality of flow branches 103 within the magnetic circuit of the night vision diopter adapter 10. However, as will be understood by one of skill in the art, the use of either flow stop components or flow branches may be implemented in various embodiments individually or in combination to provide flexibility of stop design and functions. Additionally, the use of the flux-stop helmet socket assembly 90 may be beneficial, in some embodiments, by causing a redirection of magnetic flux through the magnetic circuit that helps neutralize residual magnetic fields developed within the components of the night vision diopter adapter 10 resulting from the presence of the magnetic field of the magnet 100 and the magnetic cohesive force inherent in said components.

[00121] The operational functions for the flow stop helmet socket assembly 90 when used in conjunction with the diopter night vision adapter 10 can be further understood with reference to FIG. 12A-15B. Descriptions of which are provided below.

[00122] FIG. 12A is a front view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a night vision diopter adapter 10 as worn by a user in a right eye position of use in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this configuration, the night vision diopter is positioned for use in front of the wearer's right eye. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the embodiment as illustrated may also be configured to position the night vision diopter in front of the user's left eye. As illustrated, the night vision diopter adapter 10 is configured in a position of use, i.e., none of the first plurality of branches 102 and none of the second plurality of branches 103 are overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit 104. In addition, the flux-stop helmet socket 90 is in the active, or "oh," position causing an increased amount of magnetic flux to be directed toward the night vision diopter's magnetic sensor 602. Therefore, the magnetic sensor 602 will be closed and the night vision diopter will be activated.

[00123] FIG. 12B is a side view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a night vision diopter adapter 10 as worn by a user in a right eye position of use in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this configuration, the night vision diopter is positioned for use in front of the wearer's right eye. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the embodiment as illustrated may also be configured to position the night vision diopter in front of the user's left eye. As illustrated, the night vision diopter adapter 10 is configured in a position of use, i.e., none of the first plurality of flux branches 102 and none of the second plurality of flux branches 103 are overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit 104. Additionally, the stop helmet receptacle flux 90 is in the active, or "on", position causing an increased amount of magnetic flux to be directed toward the magnetic sensor 602 of the night vision diopter. Therefore, the magnetic sensor 602 will be closed and the night vision diopter will be activated.

[00124] FIG. 13A is a front view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a night vision diopter adapter 10 as worn by a user in a basic right eye storage position in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this configuration, the night vision diopter is positioned for convenient storage away from the user's right eye. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the embodiment as illustrated can also be configured to position the night vision binoculars for convenient storage next to the user's left eye. As illustrated, the night vision diopter adapter 10 is configured in a basic storage position, i.e., none of the first plurality of flux branches 102 are overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit 104 and one of the second plurality of flux branches 103 is overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit. flux 104. The flux cutoff helmet socket 90 is in the active, or "on", position causing an increased amount of magnetic flux to be directed toward the diopter night vision magnetic sensor 602, but the magnetic flux is cut off through the overlapping of the second plurality of branches. flux 103 preventing a sufficient amount of magnetic flux from reaching the magnetic sensor 602. Therefore, the magnetic sensor 602 will be open and the night vision diopter will be disabled.

[00125] FIG. 13B is a side view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a night vision diopter adapter 10 as worn by a user in a basic right eye storage position in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this configuration, the night vision diopter is positioned for convenient storage away from the user's right eye. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the embodiment as illustrated can also be configured to position the night vision binoculars for convenient storage next to the user's left eye. As illustrated, the night vision diopter adapter 10 is configured in a basic storage position, i.e., none of the first plurality of flux branches 102 are overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit 104 and one of the second plurality of flux branches 103 is overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit. flux 104. The flux cutoff helmet socket 90 is in the active, or "on", position causing an increased amount of magnetic flux to be directed toward the diopter night vision magnetic sensor 602, but the magnetic flux is cut off through the overlapping of the second plurality of branches. 103 preventing a sufficient amount of magnetic flux from reaching the magnetic sensor 602. Therefore, the magnetic sensor 602 will be open and the night vision diopter will be disabled.

[00126] FIG. 14A is a front view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a night vision diopter adapter 10 as worn by a user in a basic rotated right eye storage position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this configuration, the night vision diopter is positioned for convenient storage over the wearer's right eye. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the embodiment as illustrated may also be configured to position the night vision binoculars for convenient storage over the user's left eye. As illustrated, the night vision diopter adapter 10 is configured in a position of use, ie, none of the first plurality of flux branches 102 are overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit 104 and none of the second plurality of flux branches 103 are overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit. flux 104. The flux-stop helmet socket 90 is in the turned, or “off,” position, where the suppressor magnet 908 is in polar alignment with the magnet 100 and attracts some of the magnetic flux normally directed through the diopter adapter magnetic circuit night vision device 10, causing a reduced amount of magnetic flux to be directed to the night vision diopter magnetic sensor 602 which prevents a sufficient amount of magnetic flux from reaching the magnetic sensor 602. Therefore, the magnetic sensor 602 will be open and the night vision diopter will be disabled.

[00127] FIG. 14B is a side view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a night vision diopter adapter 10 as worn by a user in a basic rotated right eye storage position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this configuration, the night vision diopter is positioned for convenient storage over the wearer's right eye. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the embodiment as illustrated may also be configured to position the night vision binoculars for convenient storage over the user's left eye. As illustrated, the night vision diopter adapter 10 is configured in a position of use, ie, none of the first plurality of flux branches 102 are overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit 104 and none of the second plurality of flux branches 103 are overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit. flux 104. The flux-stop helmet receptacle 90 is in the turned, or “off,” position, where the suppressor magnet 908 is in polar alignment with the magnet 100 and attracts some of the magnetic flux normally directed through the diopter adapter's magnetic circuit. night vision device 10, causing a reduced amount of magnetic flux to be directed to the night vision diopter magnetic sensor 602 which prevents a sufficient amount of magnetic flux from reaching the magnetic sensor 602. Therefore, the magnetic sensor 602 will be open and the night vision diopter will be disabled.

[00128] FIG. 15A is a front view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a night vision diopter adapter 10, as worn by a user, in a secondary rotated right eye storage position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this configuration, the night vision binoculars are positioned for convenient storage above and to the side away from the user's right eye. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the embodiment as illustrated may also be configured to position the night vision binoculars for convenient storage above and away from the user's left eye. As illustrated, the night vision diopter adapter 10 is configured in a secondary storage location, i.e., one of the first plurality of flux branches 102 is overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit 104 and none of the second plurality of flux branches 103 are overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit. flux 104. The flux shutoff helmet receptacle 90 is in the flipped, or “off,” position causing a reduced amount of magnetic flux to be directed toward the magnetic sensor 602, as described above with respect to FIG. 14A, and magnetic flux is also interrupted through the overlapping first plurality of flux branches 102, which prevents a sufficient amount of magnetic flux from reaching the magnetic sensor 602. Therefore, the magnetic sensor 602 will be open and the night vision diopter will be disabled. This configuration is advantageous in situations where a user wishes to store the night vision binoculars away from his or her face but also wishes to reduce the degree to which the night vision binoculars are raised above the head. For example, while inside a vehicle, there may be reduced space for overhead items, and use of the secondary flipped storage position may allow a user to move more easily within the vehicle.

[00129] FIG. 15B is a side view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a night vision diopter adapter 10, as worn by a user, in a secondary rotated right eye storage position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this configuration, the night vision binoculars are positioned for convenient storage above and to the side away from the user's right eye. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the embodiment as illustrated may also be configured to position the night vision binoculars for convenient storage above and laterally away from the user's left eye. As illustrated, the night vision diopter adapter 10 is configured in a secondary storage location, i.e., one of the first plurality of flux branches 102 is overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit 104 and none of the second plurality of flux branches 103 are overlapped by the magnetic flux conduction unit. flux 104. The flux stop helmet receptacle 90 is in the turned, or "off," position causing a reduced amount of magnetic flux, as described above with respect to FIG. 14A, is directed toward the magnetic sensor 602, and magnetic flux is also interrupted through the overlapping first plurality of flux branches 102, which prevents a sufficient amount of magnetic flux from reaching the magnetic sensor 602. Therefore, the magnetic sensor 602 will be on and the night vision diopter will be disabled. This configuration is advantageous in situations where a user wishes to store the night vision binoculars away from his or her face but also wishes to reduce the height that the night vision binoculars are elevated above the head. For example, while inside a vehicle, there may be reduced space for overhead items, and use of the secondary flipped storage position may allow a user to move more easily within the vehicle.

[00130] FIG. 16 is a front view of a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. The dual diopter night vision adapter 60 may, in some embodiments, include a base 1600. The base 1600 may be formed of a low magnetic permeability metal or plastic such as aluminum, nylon, or a thermoplastic polyimide resin such as Ultem< ®>or Grivory<®>. Ultem<®>is a registered trademark of General Electric. Grivory<®>is a registered trademark of EMS-GRIVORY. Other materials of suitable intensity and magnetic permeability as would be known to one of skill in the art may be used within the scope of the present disclosure. As illustrated, the base 1600 may include a mounting surface and a locking mechanism 1610 configured to hold the dual night vision diopter adapter 60 to another device or surface configured to match the mounting surface. The locking mechanism 1610 may, in some embodiments, include a lever arm (not shown) that, when rotated, causes an increased amount of pressure to be applied to a surface mated to the mounting surface.

[00131] In some embodiments, a first magnet 101 may be positioned adjacent a first shaft 1612. The first magnet 101 may be composed of any of the materials previously described in connection with the night vision diopter adapter 10. A first conduction unit magnetic flux 104, similar (in form and composition) to that described above in relation to FIG. 1, may, in some embodiments, be configured to rotationally couple to the first shaft 1612. The first shaft 1612 may, in some embodiments, be positioned such that the first magnetic flux conduction unit 104 overlaps the first magnet 101 over a range of angular displacements (as illustrated) but would not overlap the first magnet when the angular displacement falls outside this range. These embodiments may allow a wearer/user to vary the amount of flux directed to a magnet sensor 602 (not shown), such as a magnetic reed switch, which can be operated to turn on or off. a night vision diopter coupled to the dual night vision diopter adapter 60. In such embodiments, the amount of magnetic flux directed to the magnet sensor 602 (not shown) can be controlled according to the spatial separation, dd, air gap, between the first magnet 101 and the first magnetic flux conduction unit 104.

[00132] In some embodiments, a first secondary shunt 1602 may be positioned adjacent to the first axis 1612 and offset from the first magnet 101 such that, when the first magnetic flux-conducting unit 104 rotates about the first axis 1612, the first unit magnetic flux guide 104 overlaps the first secondary branch 1602. In this configuration, at some corner locations of the magnetic flux guide unit 104, magnetic flux from the first magnet 101 is interrupted through the overlapping first secondary branch 1602. In some alternative embodiments, a plurality first secondary branches may be used.

[00133] Also illustrated is a first diopter socket 114 which, in some embodiments, may be rotatably coupled to the first magnetic flux conduction unit 104 on a second shaft 1614. This connection may be similar to that described above with respect to embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1. A first flux branch 1620 may be positioned about the second axis 1614 such that when the first diopter socket 114 is oriented relative to the first magnetic flux conduction unit 104 such that the first flux branch 1620 is overlapped by the first conduction unit magnetic flux 104, the magnetic flux directed through the first magnetic flux conduction unit 104 is interrupted through the first flux shunt 1620. In such an embodiment, the first flux shunt 1620 may facilitate the actuation of a magnetic sensor 602 (not shown). allowing an attached night vision diopter to turn on in a "use" position, ie, when the night vision diopter is in position in front of a user's eye, while also turning off the attached night vision diopter when the night vision diopter is rotated out of position "use" and saved for later use.

[00134] The first magnet 101 and the other magnetic flux conducting components may therefore, in some embodiments, form a first magnetic circuit configured to operate an attached night vision diopter, which may be turned on and off using a magnetic sensor 602 (not shown) such as a magnetic reed switch, according to the placement of the first magnet 101 relative to the first magnetic flux conducting unit 104 and the first flux branch 1620 or first secondary branch 1602 which may be overlapped by the first unit induction of magnetic flux 104.

[00135] In some embodiments, the dual night vision diopter adapter 60 may be configured to allow the use of two, separate night vision diopter devices. Such an embodiment may include additional components for a second magnetic circuit corresponding to those described above in relation to the first magnetic circuit. These may include, in some embodiments: a second magnet 121; a second secondary shunt 1603; a second magnetic flux conduction unit 105; a third axis 1616; a second diopter socket 115; a second flux shunt 1622; and, a fourth axis 1618. Operation of the second magnetic circuit may, in some embodiments, be similar or the same as that of the first magnetic circuit. However, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the components of the second magnetic circuit may be varied to provide functional characteristics that differ from those of the first magnetic circuit. Likewise, because these previously described components associated with bifocal adjustment of the diopter sockets (114 and 115) may be used in conjunction with the dual night vision diopter adapter 60, the placement and torque required to adjust/rotate a night vision diopter vision can be set differently for the first diopter socket 114 and the second diopter socket 115. This allows a user to customize the placement and adjustability of a night vision diopter used for one eye independently of the placement and adjustability set for a night vision binoculars used for the other eye.

[00136] Further illustration of the operation of the dual night vision diopter adapter 60 can be seen in FIG. 17A-17F.

[00137] FIG. 17A is a front view of a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 in a left eye use / right eye use position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. An abutment 1700 may, in some embodiments, be included on the dual night vision diopter adapter 60 that creates a mechanical limit on the range of motion allowed for the first magnetic flux conducting unit 104 and the second magnetic flux conducting unit 105. The abutment 1700 may be sized according to the size of one or more night vision diopters to attach to the dual night vision diopter adapter 60 so that the night vision diopters may not touch while mated to the dual night vision diopter adapter 60.

[00138] FIG. 17B is a front view of a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 in a right eye use position / left eye basic storage position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Also depicted here is a second magnet 121 that does not overlap, resulting in the diopter night vision device configured for use in conjunction with the left eye being turned off.

[00139] FIG. 17C is a front view of a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 in a basic right eye storage position / basic left eye storage position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Also depicted here is a second magnet 121 that does not overlap, resulting in the diopter night vision device configured for use in conjunction with the left eye being turned off. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, a similar placement is shown for the corresponding first magnetic circuit associated with the diopter night vision device configured for use with the right eye.

[00140] FIG. 17D is a front view of a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 in a secondary right eye storage position / secondary left eye storage position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Also depicted here is a second magnet 121 that does not overlap, resulting in the diopter night vision device configured for use in conjunction with the left eye being turned off. Similarly, a second flux shunt 1622 is overlapped, which may, in some embodiments, also reduce the amount of magnetic flux reaching the magnet sensor (not shown) and cause an associated diopter night vision device to turn off at that location. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, a similar placement is shown for the corresponding first magnetic circuit associated with the diopter night vision device configured for use with the right eye.

[00141] FIG. 17E is a perspective view of a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 in a secondary right eye storage position / secondary left eye storage position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Also depicted here is a second magnet 121 that does not overlap, resulting in the diopter night vision device configured for use in conjunction with the left eye being turned off. Similarly, a second flux shunt (not shown) is superimposed, which may, in some embodiments, also reduce the amount of magnetic flux reaching the magnet sensor (not shown) and cause an associated diopter night vision device to turn off at that location. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, a similar placement is shown for the corresponding first magnetic circuit associated with the diopter night vision device configured for use with the right eye.

[00142] FIG. 17F is a perspective view of a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 in a secondary right eye storage position / secondary left eye storage position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[00143] Further understanding of the operation of the dual night vision diopter adapter 60 in use with the flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 can be gleaned from FIG. 18A-22B described in detail below.

[00144] FIG. 18A is a front view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 as worn by a user in a right eye use/left eye use position in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. In such a configuration, the magnet amplifier (not shown) causes an increased amount of flux to be directed to the magnet sensor (not shown) causing the associated diopter night vision devices to be in the "on" or active state.

[00145] FIG. 18B is a side view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 as worn by a user in a right eye use/left eye use position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In such a configuration, the magnet amplifier (not shown) causes an increased amount of flux to be directed to the magnet sensor (not shown) causing the associated diopter night vision devices to be in the "on" or active state.

[00146] FIG. 19A is a front view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 as worn by a user in a right eye use position / left eye secondary storage position in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. In such a configuration, the magnet amplifier (not shown) causes an increased amount of flux to be directed to the magnet sensor (not shown) causing the diopter night vision device associated with the right eye to be in the "o" or active state, while the moving the second magnet 121 away from the second magnetic circuit causes the night vision diopter associated with the left eye to turn off. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the use of a secondary shunt may be omitted in embodiments such as, for example, the one illustrated herein, because a sufficient reduction of the magnetic flux directed to the sensor magnet (not shown) may be achieved by displacement of the first magnet (not shown) or the second magnet 121 from the magnetic circuits which creates an air gap sufficient to reduce the magnetic flux directed below the level required by the magnet sensor (not shown) for operation. Therefore, the use of a secondary shunt, in some embodiments, may be omitted based on the configuration of the other magnetic flux agents and magnetic flux carrying components.

[00147] FIG. 19B is a side view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 as worn by a user in a right eye use position / left eye secondary storage position in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. In such a configuration, the magnet amplifier (not shown) causes an increased amount of flux to be directed to the magnet sensor (not shown) causing the diopter night vision device associated with the right eye to be in the "o" or active state, while the moving the second magnet 121 away from the second magnetic circuit causes the night vision diopter associated with the left eye to turn off.

[00148] FIG. 20A is a front view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter 60, as worn by a user, in a third right eye storage position / third left eye storage position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure . In such a configuration, the magnet amplifier (not shown) causes an increased amount of flux to be directed to the magnet sensor (not shown) of the associated diopter night vision devices, however the displacement of the second magnet 121 away from the second magnetic circuit and the first magnet 101 from the first magnetic circuit causes the night vision binoculars to turn off.

[00149] FIG. 20B is a side view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter 60, as worn by a user, in a tertiary right eye storage position / tertiary left eye storage position in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure . In such a configuration, the magnet booster (not shown) causes an increased amount of flux to be directed to the magnet sensor (not shown) of the associated diopter night vision devices, however the displacement of the second magnet 121 away from the second magnetic circuit and the first magnet 101 from the first magnetic circuit causes the night vision binoculars to turn off.

[00150] FIG. 21A is a front view of a flow stop helmet socket assembly 90 mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 as worn by a user in a rotated right eye secondary storage position / left eye secondary storage position according to one embodiment of the present invention disclosure. In such a configuration, the suppressor magnet (not shown) causes a reduced amount of flux to be directed to the magnet sensor (not shown) of the associated diopter night vision devices as the suppressor magnet draws magnetic flux from the first magnet 101 and second magnet 121 toward the likewise out of the magnetic circuits, and moving the second magnet 121 away from the second magnetic circuit and the first magnet 101 away from the first magnetic circuit causes the night vision diopters to turn off.

[00151] FIG. 21B is a side view of a flow stop helmet receptacle assembly 90 mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 as worn by a user in a rotated right eye secondary storage position / left eye secondary storage position in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention disclosure. In such a configuration, the suppressor magnet (not shown) causes a reduced amount of flux to be directed to the magnet sensor (not shown) of the associated diopter night vision devices as the suppressor magnet draws magnetic flux from the first magnet 101 and second magnet 121 toward the likewise out of the magnetic circuits, and moving the second magnet 121 away from the second magnetic circuit and the first magnet 101 away from the first magnetic circuit causes the night vision diopters to turn off.

[00152] FIG. 22A is a front view of a flow stop helmet socket assembly 90 mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 as worn by a user in a rotated right eye third storage position / left eye third storage position in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention disclosure. In such a configuration, the suppressor magnet (not shown) causes a reduced amount of flux to be directed to the magnet sensor (not shown) of the associated diopter night vision devices as the suppressor magnet draws magnetic flux from the first magnet 101 and second magnet 121 toward the likewise outside the magnetic circuits, likewise the displacement of the second magnet 121 away from the second magnetic circuit in addition to the overlap of a second branch 1622 and the displacement of the first magnet 101 from the first magnetic circuit in addition to the overlap of a first branch 1620 causes the diopters night vision to be turned off.

[00153] FIG. 22B is a side view of a flow stop helmet socket assembly 90 mated to a dual night vision diopter adapter 60 as worn by a user in a rotated right eye third storage position / left eye third storage position in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention disclosure. In such a configuration, the suppressor magnet (not shown) causes a reduced amount of flux to be directed to the magnet sensor (not shown) of the associated diopter night vision devices as the suppressor magnet draws magnetic flux from the first magnet 101 and second magnet 121 toward the likewise outside the magnetic circuits, likewise the displacement of the second magnet 121 away from the second magnetic circuit in addition to the overlap of a second branch 1622 and the displacement of the first magnet 101 from the first magnetic circuit in addition to the overlap of a first branch 1620 causes the diopters night vision to be turned off.

[00154] As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the dual night vision diopter adapter 60 may be mated to the flow stop helmet socket assembly 90 in a similar or identical manner as previously described for the night vision diopter adapter 10. Therefore , additional shutdown functions corresponding to the “on” and “off” positions of the flow interruption helmet socket assembly 90 may, in some embodiments, be possible when the dual diopter night vision adapter 60 is mated to the flow interruption helmet socket assembly 90.

[00155] It will be appreciated that although the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components , areas, layers and/or sections, those elements, components, areas, layers and/or sections shall not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, or section from another element, component, area, layer, or section. Therefore, a first element, component, region, layer, or portion described below could be called a second element, component, region, layer, or segment, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[00156] Spatially related terms, such as for example "below," "below," "lower," "under," "above," "above," and the like, may be used herein for ease of explanation to describe a relationship of an element or feature to another element(s) or feature(s) as depicted in the figures. It will be understood that spatially relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is inverted, elements described as "below" or "below" or "under" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Therefore, the exemplary terms "under" and "under" can include both an over and under orientation. The device may be otherwise oriented (eg, rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations) and spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[00157] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or one or more intervening elements or layers may be present. Additionally, it will also be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "between" two elements or layers, it may be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or one or more intervening elements or layers may be also present.

[00158] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "consisting of," "consisting of," "comprising," and "comprising," when used in these specifications, designate the presence of the stated characteristics, integral, steps, functions, components, and/or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, functions, components, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes without exception any combination of one or more of the associated enumerated elements. Expressions such as "at least one/one/one of," when preceding a list of elements, modify the entire list of elements and do not modify the individual elements of the list.

[00159] As used herein, the term "substantially," "approximately," and similar terms are used as terms of approximation rather than terms of degree, and are intended to account for inherent deviations in measured or calculated values that would be recognized by those of ordinary skill skill in technique. Further, the use of "may" when describing embodiments of the present invention refers to "one or more embodiments of the present invention." As used herein, the terms "uses," "using," and "used," may be considered synonymous with the terms "applies," "applying," and "applied," respectively. Also, the term "exemplary" is intended to refer to an example or illustration.

[00160] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and/or these specifications, and should not be interpreted under an idealized or overly formal meaning, unless expressly defined as such herein.

[00161] It should be understood that embodiments described herein should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Descriptions of features or aspects within each embodiment should generally be considered available for other similar features or aspects in other embodiments.

[00162] While one or more embodiments have been described with reference to the figures, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope as defined by the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims (22)

1. A night vision diopter adapter, consisting of: a set of diopter receptacles; a base magnet producing a first magnetic flux; a magnetic flux conducting unit having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is rotatable about a first axis positioned adjacent the base magnet and the second end is coupled to a second axis located within the diopter housing assembly about which the diopter holder assembly is rotatable; a first plurality of branches arranged around the base magnet; and a second plurality of branches arranged around the diopter housing assembly; wherein the magnetic flux conducting unit is configured to overlap the base magnet and form a magnetic circuit for conducting the first magnetic flux to the second end of the magnetic flux conducting unit when none of the first plurality of branches and none of the second plurality of branches are overlapped by the magnetic flux induction unit; and wherein the first magnetic flux is interrupted through one of the first plurality of branches or the second plurality of branches when the magnetic flux conducting unit is positioned such that one of the first plurality of branches or one of the second plurality of branches is overlapped by the magnetic flux conducting unit. 2. The night vision diopter adapter of claim 1, wherein the magnetic flux conducting unit comprises a pair of magnetic flux conducting units, each having a top portion and a bottom portion, configured to be rotatably coupled about the first axis to the top portion of each of the pair of units magnetic flux conducting unit and to be coupled to the second shaft in the bottom piece of each of the pair of magnetic flux conducting units. 3. The diopter night vision adapter of claim 1, further comprising: an interaural adjustment torque adjustment (IPA) knob; a helical member configured to fit within the diopter housing assembly along the second axis; and a compression fitting; wherein the torque adjustment knob IPA may be helically threaded along the helical member to increase force exerted on the compression member by creating an increased frictional force about the second axis that prevents rotation of the magnetic flux transfer unit about the second axis. 4. The diopter night vision adapter of claim 3, wherein the compression member comprises one or more thrust rings. 5. The diopter night vision adapter of claim 3, wherein the compression member consists of a split tapered ring bearing. 6. The night vision diopter adapter of claim 1, wherein the diopter receptacle assembly comprises a spring-loaded locking member. 7. The diopter night vision adapter of claim 1, further comprising a helmet mount assembly, wherein the first shaft is located within the helmet mount assembly. 8. The diopter night vision adapter of claim 7, wherein the first plurality of branches are displaced within the helmet housing assembly about the first axis. 9. The diopter night vision adapter of claim 8, further comprising: an array of claws on the helmet mounting assembly and located about the first shaft; and a plurality of spring-loaded balls; wherein the spring loaded spheres are configured to be compressed between the magnetic flux conducting unit and the helmet receiver assembly; and wherein the spring-loaded balls are configured to fit partially within the claws causing the magnetic flux drive unit to be assembled in an angular position relative to the helmet receptacle assembly until a rotational force is applied to the magnetic flux drive unit sufficient to overcome the retaining force at least one of a plurality of spring-loaded balls within a sixth array of claws. 10. The diopter night vision adapter of claim 9, wherein the position of the nail array corresponds to at least one position where the magnetic flux conduction unit does not overlap one of the first plurality of branches; and wherein the position of the claw array also corresponds to at least one position where the magnetic flux conduction unit actually overlaps at least one of the first plurality of branches. 11. A flow stop helmet receptacle assembly, consisting of: a mounting base consisting of: a central axis; an amplifier magnet disposed about the central axis and having a first polar orientation; and a magnet suppressor positioned about the central axis and offset from the magnet amplifier and having a second polar orientation; a set of magnetic flux-conducting tracks; and a mounting point coupled to the mounting base; wherein the magnetic flux conducting track assembly is configured to be rotationally coupled to the central axis and is further configured to overlap the magnet amplifier at a first location and to direct a magnetic flux according to the first polar orientation along the magnetic flux conducting track assembly; and wherein the magnetic flux conducting track assembly is configured to overlap the suppressor magnet at a second location and to direct a magnetic flux according to the second polar orientation along the magnetic flux conducting track assembly. 12. The flow stop helmet receptacle assembly of claim 11, further comprising: a sliding flux-conducting unit configured to couple to the magnetic flux-conducting track assembly and to slide along a portion of the magnetic flux-conducting track assembly. 13. The stop-flow helmet receptacle assembly of claim 11, wherein the base further comprises: a first lobe configured to accommodate the amplifier magnet; and a second lobe configured to accommodate the suppressor magnet. 14. The stop-flow helmet receptacle assembly of claim 11, wherein the base further comprises: a locking mechanism configured to selectively retain the magnetic flux-conducting track assembly in the first position or the second position. 15. The flux-stop helmet receptacle assembly of claim 11, wherein the magnetic flux conduction path assembly comprises at least two magnetic flux conduction paths. 16. A night vision diopter adapter, consisting of: a first set of diopter receptacles; a first magnet causing a first magnetic flux; and a first magnetic flux conduction unit having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is rotatable about a first axis positioned adjacent the first magnet and the second end is coupled to a second axis located within the first diopter socket assembly about from which the first diopter socket assembly is rotatable; wherein the first magnetic flux conducting unit is configured to overlap the first magnet and form a first magnetic circuit for conducting the first magnetic flux to the second end of the first magnetic flux conducting unit; and wherein the first magnetic flux conducted through the first magnetic circuit is reduced when the first magnetic flux conducting unit is positioned such that the first magnet is not overlapped by the first magnetic flux conducting unit. 17. The diopter night vision adapter of claim 16, further comprising: a first branch positioned about the second axis within the first diopter housing assembly; wherein the first magnetic flux is interrupted through the first branch when the first magnetic flux conducting unit is positioned relative to the first diopter receptacle assembly such that the first branch is overlapped by the first magnetic flux conducting unit. 18. The diopter night vision adapter of claim 16, further comprising: a second set of diopter receptacles; a second magnet producing a second magnetic flux; a second magnetic flux conducting unit having a third end and a fourth end, wherein the third end is rotatable about a third axis positioned adjacent the second magnet and the fourth end is coupled to a fourth axis located within the second diopter housing assembly about from which the second diopter receiver assembly can be rotated-and wherein the second magnetic flux conducting unit is configured to overlap the second magnet and form a second magnetic circuit for conducting the second magnetic flux to the fourth end of the second magnetic flux conducting unit - and wherein the second magnetic flux conducted through the second magnetic circuit is reduced when the second magnetic flux conducting unit is positioned such that the second magnet is not overlapped by the second magnetic flux conducting unit. 19. The diopter night vision adapter of claim 18, further comprising: a second shunt positioned about the fourth axis within the second diopter socket assembly such that the second magnetic flux is interrupted through the second shunt when the second magnetic flux conducting unit is positioned relative to the second diopter socket assembly such that the second shunt is overlapped by the second magnetic flux conduction unit. 20. The diopter night vision adapter of claim 16, further comprising: a first secondary shunt positioned about the first axis and configured to interrupt the first magnetic flux flowing within the first magnetic circuit when the first magnetic flux conducting unit is positioned such that the first magnetic flux conducting unit overlaps the first secondary shunt. 21. The diopter night vision adapter of claim 18, further comprising: a second secondary shunt displaced about the third axis and configured to interrupt the second magnetic flux flowing within the second magnetic circuit when the second magnetic flux conducting unit is positioned such that the second magnetic flux conducting unit overlaps the second secondary shunt. 22. The diopter night vision adapter of claim 18, further comprising: an abutment positioned between the first axis and the third axis and configured to mechanically limit the rotation of the first magnetic flux conducting unit about the first axis and mechanically limit the rotation of the second magnetic flux conducting unit about the third axis such that a minimum distance between the first diopter socket set and the second diopter socket set is maintained.