WO2007067796A2 - Scope avec ensemble flexible d'element de zoom - Google Patents

Scope avec ensemble flexible d'element de zoom Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2007067796A2
WO2007067796A2 PCT/US2006/047144 US2006047144W WO2007067796A2 WO 2007067796 A2 WO2007067796 A2 WO 2007067796A2 US 2006047144 W US2006047144 W US 2006047144W WO 2007067796 A2 WO2007067796 A2 WO 2007067796A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
zoom
flexible member
scope according
assembly
main body
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2006/047144
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2007067796A3 (fr
Inventor
Forrest Babcock
Thomas Mitchell
Original Assignee
Pacific Rim Optical, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Pacific Rim Optical, Inc. filed Critical Pacific Rim Optical, Inc.
Publication of WO2007067796A2 publication Critical patent/WO2007067796A2/fr
Publication of WO2007067796A3 publication Critical patent/WO2007067796A3/fr

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B23/00—Telescopes, e.g. binoculars; Periscopes; Instruments for viewing the inside of hollow bodies; Viewfinders; Optical aiming or sighting devices
    • G02B23/14—Viewfinders
    • G02B23/145—Zoom viewfinders

Definitions

  • the present teachings relate to a scope for mounting on a firearm to provide a gun sight. Such a scope may have zoom capability. Scopes are of interest for practical applications in various fields. Scopes are often used as aiming devices, for example, for firearms like rifle.s or handguns. Scopes can be mounted to the firearm so that the user can.peer through the scope to view the target up close.
  • a scope otherwise known as a terrestrial telescope or landscape telescope, comprises an objective lens and an ocular lens or eyepiece.
  • the combination of the objective and the ocular alone create an inverted image of the target in the viewer's eye.
  • scopes are customarily outfitted with erector systems between the objective and ocular for inverting the image such that the target appears erect as seen by the viewer.
  • the objective, ocular, and erector are generally disposed in a body that protects the optics.
  • the scope may also include windage and elevation controls for adjusting windage and elevation.
  • These controls may comprise dials that the user rotates to establish the desired windage or elevation setting.
  • the windage and elevation controls have sufficiently large range.
  • the controls also preferably have a suitable feel for precise adjustment and user appeal.
  • many conventional system rely on forward spring designs with ball seats that have machined grooves that cause sticking and jumping when adjusting the windage or elevation.
  • the scope may also include a focusing system.
  • the scope may be designed such that one or more optical lens elements in the scope can be longitudinally displaced so as to bring an image into focus.
  • One embodiment of the invention comprises a scope for mounting on a firearm to provide a sight.
  • the scope has a zoom assembly that includes a zoom selector ring rotatably mounted to a main tube.
  • a zoom selector tube houses optics for providing a viewing image.
  • a main tube is interposed between the zoom selector ring and the zoom selector tube.
  • the flexible elongated member couples the zoom selector ring to the zoom selector tube.
  • the elongated member extends through a slot in the main body.
  • the elongated member is a flexible elongated band, hi some variations, the elongated member is a cable that wraps around the zoom selector tube. Rotation of the zoom selector ring causes rotation of the zoom selector tube.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a scope having a positioning system for adjusting windage and elevation as well as a zoom assembly for providing zoom.
  • Figure 2 is a perspective cutaway view of the scope of Figure 1 illustrating an objective, an erector assembly, and an eyepiece in the scope.
  • Figure 2A is an enlarged side cross-sectional view of an eyepiece end of the scope of Figure 1.
  • Figure 2B is an enlarged side cross-sectional view of the objective end of the scope of Figure 1.
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view of the scope of Figure 1, with an exploded view of a portion of the zoom assembly comprising a zoom selector' ring in an opened position.
  • Figure 4 illustrates a main body of the scope shown in Figure 1 with the zoom selector ring removed.
  • Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the scope along line 5-5 in Figure 2A.
  • Figure 6 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a zoom selector ring in a closed position.
  • Figure 6A is a perspective view of the zoom selector ring of Figure 6 schematically illustrating interconnection of sections of the zoom selector ring.
  • Figure 6B is a front view of the zoom selector ring of Figure 6A.
  • Figure 7 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a zoom selector ring.
  • Figure 7A is an exploded view of the zoom selector ring of Figure 7.
  • Figure 8 is a side cross-sectional view of the scope of Figure 1 showing the erector assembly disposed between the objective end of the scope and the eyepiece end.
  • Figure 9 is a perspective view of an erector assembly and a portion of a zoom selector ring linked to the erector assembly, wherein the erector assembly comprises a housing comprising an outer tube, an inner tube, and carriages in the inner tube.
  • Figure 10 is a perspective view of the carriages inside the inner tube of a housing of the erector assembly.
  • Figure 11 is a perspective view of a carriage of the erector assembly of Figures 9 and 10.
  • Figure 12 is a perspective view of the outer tube of the housing of the erector assembly of Figure 8.
  • Figure 13 is a perspective view of a portion of a scope having an erector assembly with a zoom selector ring, wherein the erector assembly and zoom selector ring have magnetic elements to interact with each other.
  • Figure 14 is a partial side schematic view of a scope having a zoom assembly.
  • Figure 15 is a perspective view of a scope with a zoom selector ring removed.
  • Figure 16 illustrates internal components of a zoom assembly.
  • Figure 17 is a perspective view of an elongated member coupled to a zoom selector tube.
  • Figure 18 is a perspective view of an elongated member of a zoom assembly.
  • Figures 19A to 19C are cross-sectional views of the scope of Figure 15 taken along the line 32-32.
  • Figure 20 is a perspective view of a zoom assembly in accordance with another embodiment.
  • Figure 21 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an elongate member to a zoom selector tube.
  • Figure 22 is a perspective view of internal components of the zoom assembly shown in Figure 21.
  • Figure 23 is a perspective view of an elongated member of a zoom assembly.
  • Figures 24A to 24C are cross-sectional views of the scope of Figure 14 taken along the line 32-32.
  • proximal and distal which are used to describe the disclosed embodiments, are used consistently with the description of the exemplary applications.
  • proximal and distal are used in reference to the head of the user looking through the scope. That is, proximal components are nearer to the user than distal components.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a scope 100 that has a zoom assembly 103 for providing selectable zoom thereby controlling the apparent distance to an object viewed through the scope.
  • the zoom assembly 103 includes the zoom selector ring 105 that is disposed along and surrounds a main body 110 of the scope 100.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 can be adjusted, e.g., rotated, to zoom in or zoom out, thereby reducing or enlarging the object viewed through the scope 100.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 is disposed rearward on the main body 110.
  • the main body 110 has a widened objective end 114 and a widened eyepiece end 118 housing an objective and an eyepiece, respectively.
  • the widened eyepiece end 118 is at the proximal end and the widened objective end 114 is at the distal end of the main body 110.
  • the scope 100 also includes a positioning system 120 for manipulating optics contained within the scope 100 to account for windage and/or elevation.
  • the positioning system 120 includes elevation and windage dials 300, 304 for adjusting the elevation and windage as described in more detail below.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 is located between the eyepiece end 118 and the positioning system 120.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 can be located at any suitable position along the scope 100 for adjusting optics of the scope to achieve the desired amount of zoom.
  • the scope 100 can be mounted to a firearm (e.g., a rifle, a handgun, etc.) or any other device (e.g., a crossbow or a bow) that a user aims during operation.
  • Figure 2 is a perspective cutaway view of the scope 100 of Figure 1.
  • the main body 110 contains an optical train 126 through which light can propagate to provide an image to the observer using the scope 100.
  • the optical train 126 comprises a plurality of lenses including the objective and eyepiece referred to above and discussed more fully below, hi the illustrated embodiment, a portion of the lenses can be selectively longitudinally displaced with respect to each other by using the zoom assembly 103 to obtain the desired amount of zoom and/or transversely displaced by using the positioning system 120 to account for windage and elevation.
  • the observer can operate the zoom assembly 103 and the positioning system 120 to selectively define the interrelationship between one or more of the lenses of the optical train 126, preferably at any time during the aiming and firing process.
  • a reticle 113 is also included to assist in the aiming process.
  • the main body 110 is preferably a single continuous unitary body that protects the optics therein.
  • the main body 110 surrounds and houses the optical train 126 to reduce introduction of contaminants into the scope 100.
  • the one-piece main body 110 comprises the enlarged objective end 114, the enlarged eyepiece end 118, and a narrow medial or central tubular body 130 therebetween.
  • the main body 110 can extend uninterrupted from the widened objective end 114 through the narrow central tubular portion 130 to the widened eyepiece end 118.
  • both the objective end 114 and eyepiece end 118 house one or more lenses of the optical train 126, e.g., the objective and the ocular, respectively.
  • the unitary main body 110 preferably houses both the objective and eyepiece.
  • the central tubular portion 130 of the main body 110 can house at least a portion of the optical train 126, such as erecting optics, that can ensure that the image viewed with the scope 100 is properly oriented.
  • the one-piece design preferably reduces exposure of the optics to moisture, particulates, and other foreign matter that may degrade performance of the scope 100.
  • the one-piece main body 110 is also likely to be more rugged and durable, offering resistance to the large forces and impacts created by firing a gun.
  • the one-piece main body 110 weighs less than its multi-piece counterpart, thereby producing less recoil force
  • the dimensions and/or form factor of the central tube region 110 is manufactured in accordance with industry standards and thus in preferred embodiments will have an outer diameter (OD) of either one (1) inch or thirty (30) millimeters.
  • OD outer diameter
  • either or both of the objective 104 and eyepiece 106 regions are of similar or smaller dimensions than the central region 110.
  • Figure 2 A is a close-up view of the eyepiece end 118 of the main body 110 preferably housing an ocular lens 152 in a proximal end 140 of the eyepiece.
  • the proximal end 140 of the eyepiece portion 118 preferably includes an opening or aperture 150 for viewing through the scope 100.
  • the proximal end 140 is a tubular body that preferably holds the ocular 152, which comprises a pair of lens elements.
  • Other types of ocular lenses 152 may include more or less lens elements or other optical elements may also be employed.
  • the eyepiece end 118 can have any shape or configuration suitable for holding the ocular 152 and provide a viewing window for looking through the scope 100.
  • positioning structures can be disposed on an inner surface 154 of the eyepiece end 118 for securing the ocular 152 in place. The positioning structures can prevent relative movement between the ocular 152 and the eyepiece housing 118. Other methods of securing the ocular 152 within the eyepiece end 118 of the scope are also possible. Still in other embodiments, one or more lens elements in the ocular is moveable and may be used to focus the image in some cases.
  • the eyepiece end 118 may further comprise a tapered portion 144.
  • the tapered portion 144 extends from the proximal end 140 and tapers in the distal direction.
  • the tapered portion 144 can have a generally circular cross-sectional profile that is reduced in the distal direction towards the objective end 114.
  • the tapered portion 144 of the eyepiece end 118 is preferably coupled to the central tubular portion 130 of the main body 110 as shown in Figures 2 and 2A.
  • the narrow central tubular portion 130 has a proximal end 145 connected to the eyepiece end 118.
  • the central tubular portion 130 of the main body 110 is permanently connected to the eyepiece end 118.
  • the central tubular portion 130 may be fused to the eyepiece end 118 or the central tubular portion and the eyepiece end may be molded or otherwise integrated together.
  • the eyepiece end 118 and the central tubular portion 130 may also be fabricated from the same piece of material.
  • the tubular body 130 is also coupled to the objective end 114.
  • the objective end 114 of the scope main body 110 preferably houses an objective 180 as illustrated in the close-up view shown in Figure 2B.
  • the objective portion 114 of the main body 110 has a distal end 184 that includes an opening 185 for viewing an object through the scope 100.
  • the distal end 184 is a tubular body configured to engage and hold the objective 180 of the optical train 126.
  • the objective end 114 can have any shape, size, or configuration suitable for holding the objective 180 and providing a viewing window for viewing a distant target through the scope 100.
  • the distal end 184 can have a generally constant (non-tapered) cross-sectional profile along its length.
  • other configurations are possible.
  • mounting structures can be disposed on the inner surface 154 of the objective end 114 for securely holding the objective 180.
  • the mounting structures can grip and prevent movement of the objective 180 relative to the objective end 118.
  • Other methods of securing the objective 180 within the objective end 114 of the scope 100 are also possible.
  • the objective 180 may include one or more movable optical elements.
  • the objective end 114 may further comprise a tapered portion 182.
  • the tapered portion 182 preferably extends from the distal end 184 and tapers in the proximal direction.
  • the tapered portion 182 can have a generally circular cross-sectional profile that is reduced towards the ocular end 118. Other configurations are possible.
  • the tapered portion 182 of the objective end 114 is preferably permanently coupled to the distal end 184 and to the narrow tubular body 130 of the main body as shown in Figure 2B.
  • the narrow central tubular portion 130 has a distal end 146.
  • the distal end 146 is preferably connected to the objective end 114 such that the objective end 114 and the narrow central tubular portion are integrated together in a continuous, uninterrupted fashion. Accordingly, the objective end 114 and the central narrow tubular body 130 are connected together to form a continuous uninterrupted housing for the objective optics 180.
  • the central tubular portion 130 may be fused to the objective end 114 or the central tubular portion and the objective end may be molded, or otherwise integrated together.
  • the objective end 114 and the central tubular portion 130 may also be fabricated from the same piece of material.
  • the central tubular portion 130 of the main body 110 is permanently connected to at least one of the eyepiece end 118 and the objective end 114.
  • the central tubular body portion 130 is permanently connected to both the eyepiece end 118 and the objective end 114.
  • the central tubular portion 130 of the main body may be temporarily coupled to either or both the objective end 114 and the eyepiece end 118.
  • the tubular body 130 extends continuously from a proximal portion 164, through a middle body portion 166, and to a distal portion 167.
  • the tubular body 130 of the scope 100 has a generally tubular shape that is sized and configured to house erecting optics, hi various embodiments, a substantial portion of the central tubular body portion 130 has a cross-sectional area that is less than the cross- sectional area of the eyepiece end 118 although such a configuration is not required. In some embodiments, a substantial portion of the tubular body 130 has a cross-sectional area that is less than the cross-sectional area of the objective end 114.
  • the entire tubular body 130 has a cross-sectional area that is less than the cross-sectional area of the eyepiece end 118 and the cross-sectional area of the objective end 114. In other embodiments, however, the tubular body 130 may be the same size or larger than one of the objective end 114 or eyepiece end 118 or both.
  • the tubular body 130 can also have a cross- sectional area that varies along its length. For example, the tubular body 130 may have a widened portion to support the zoom selector ring 105 sized to be comfortably handled by the user.
  • the tubular body 130 can have any shape suitable for housing one or more components of the optical train 126 and possibly for supporting the positioning system 120 and/or the zoom selector ring 105.
  • the proximal portion 164 of the tubular body 130 is disposed through and surrounded at least in part by the zoom selector ring 105. Additionally, the proximal portion 164 of the tubular body 130 can have an elongated opening or slot 170 (see, e.g., Figure 4).
  • the slot 170 in the tubular body 130 defines a window between the interior and the exterior of the main body 110 so that an extension from the zoom selector ring 105 can pass through and into the interior of the main body 110 and engage a support structure supporting optics in the optics train 126 as discussed more fully below.
  • the slot 170 has a generally constant width and continues along a portion of the circumference of the main body 110.
  • the arc spanned by the slot 170 ranges between about 0 and 120 degrees, e.g., about 120°, and is positioned along the proximal portion 164.
  • the length of the slot 170 is about 130° to about 190°, e.g. about 150° or 180°.
  • the length of the slot 170 is in the range of between about 0° to about 220°.
  • the slot 170 can have other lengths suitable to achieve the desired range of travel of the zoom assembly 103.
  • the slot can be also positioned elsewhere.
  • the slot 170 can alternatively be disposed in the middle body 166 or the distal portion 167.
  • the slot 170 preferably determines the amount of travel of a rotatable zoom selector ring 105 of the zoom selector ring 105.
  • the slot 170 having a length of about 180° provides about 180° of rotation of the zoom selector ring 105 about a longitudinal axis 121 of the scope 100.
  • the length of the slot 170 can therefore be increased or decreased to increase or decrease, respectively, the angle that the zoom selector ring 105 can be rotated about the main body 110.
  • the slot 170 can also limit the axial movement of the zoom selector ring 105 relative to the main body 110.
  • the appropriate size and configuration of the slot 170 can be determined to achieve the desired distance of travel of the zoom selector ring 105 and the desired structural properties of the body 110. For example, reducing the length or width of the slot 170 may result in reduced flexure and increased strength of the body 110.
  • an opening or hole 174 can optionally pass through the main body 110, e.g., in the middle portion 166 of the tubular body 130 to receive an actuator that forms part of the positioning system 120.
  • an actuator that forms part of the positioning system 120.
  • movement of the windage and elevation dials 304, 300 may be coupled through the hole 174 to adjust optics in the optics train 126 to effectuate the appropriate corrections for proper aiming.
  • the slot 170 and the opening 174 do not permit moisture or contaminants from reaching the optics in the scope 100.
  • the main body 110 is preferably formed out of a unitary piece of material, hi one embodiment, a tube, preferably made of metal, is processed into an elongated substantially cylindrical body having a widened proximal and a widened distal end. As illustrated in Figure 4, both ends of the cylindrical body can be forged into a partially cone shaped eyepiece end 118 and objective end 114. The frusta-conical shaped taper of the objective end 114 and the eyepiece end 118 of the main body 110 can be forged by placing the ends of the main body 110 into a mold. The main body 110 can then be heat treated to gradually enlarge the end portions of the main body 110.
  • the entire main body 110 can be annealed to reduce residual stresses of the main body 110.
  • the main body 110 is formed by machining a piece of material into the desired shape.
  • a metal body can be machined with a cutting tool to produce the cylindrical main body 110.
  • the main body 110 can be formed by a die casting process.
  • molten metal can disposed into a cavity of a die casting machine.
  • the die casting machine may comprise two bodies that mate and form the cavity in the shape of the main body 110.
  • the molten material can then be, for example, injected into the cavity in some embodiments.
  • the main body may be swagged (deformed by punching) from an extrusion to achieve a blank that could then be machined.
  • Different embodiments may be machined from an extrusion, swagged, or die cast. Other process may also be employed.
  • the main body 110 can be formed through a one-step or multi- step process.
  • the eyepiece end 118 and the objective end 114 can be formed in a central tubular body.
  • the slot 170 can then be formed in a portion of the body. It is contemplated that any portion of the main body 110 can be formed at any suitable time.
  • the slot 170 can be formed before the eyepiece end 118 is shaped.
  • the different portions of the main body 110 of the scope 100 may be formed separately and fused or bonded together, for example, by welding or other processing techniques.
  • the main tube end product comprises a single unitary piece of material.
  • the main tube does not require bonding but comprises a single unitary piece that is processed to form the end product having the objective and eyepiece portions 114, 118 together with the central tubular portion 130.
  • the main body 110 preferably comprises a material that is suitable for housing optics and preferably has suitable corrosion resistant characteristics.
  • the main body 110 may comprise metal, plastic, composites, and/or the like.
  • the main body 110 comprises magnesium.
  • the main body 110 comprises aluminum-magnesium-titanium alloy.
  • the materials should not be limited to those specifically recited herein as a variety of materials can be used alone or in combination to form the main body 110.
  • the appropriate dimensions and the type of materials that form the main body 110 may be determined based on, e.g., the arrangement of the optical train 126 and the desired weight and structural properties of the main body 110.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 may be used as a control for controlling the optical train 126.
  • the user can rotate the zoom selector ring 105 in certain preferred embodiments to adjust the size of the images viewed through the scope 100.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 may be multi-piece body configured to slidably engage the main body 110.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 is a segmented body that extends substantially around the unitary, uninterrupted main body 110.
  • Figure 3 shows an embodiment of the zoom selector ring 105 comprising a plurality of segments that mate with the outer surface 195 of the main body 110.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 is depicted in an opened position in Figure 3 with the segments spaced apart.
  • the inner diameter of the zoom selector ring 105 is smaller than both the outer diameter of the objective end 114 and the outer diameter of the eyepiece end 118.
  • separated segments of the zoom selector ring 105 may be combined to form the selector ring around the narrow central body portion 130.
  • the inner diameter of the zoom selector ring 105 is preferably smaller than the outer diameter of one of the objective end 114 and the eyepiece end 118.
  • the selector ring 105 is located between the center of the main body 110 and the proximal end 145. In another embodiment, the selector ring 105 is spaced less than about 1/3 of the length of the tubular body 130 from the eyepiece end 118.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 is preferably located along the proximal portion 164 of the tubular body,, optionally, the selector ring 105 can be located along the middle body 166 or the distal portion 167 of the central body 130.
  • the main body 110 can have an annular ridge or body that mates with an inner annular body or groove of the selector ring 105 to prevent longitudinal movement between the selector ring 105 and the main body 110.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 comprises a pair of curved segments 190 and 194 that can be closed, e.g., by joining the separate segments together.
  • each of the segments 190, 194 is preferably arranged about the circumference of the tubular body 130.
  • the zoom selection ring 105 extends at least substantially about the circumference of the main body 110.
  • Figure 1 depicts the segments disposed circumferentially about the outer surface 195 of the tubular body 130.
  • the curved segments 190, 194 can have inner surfaces 196, 198 that preferably form a surface 242 which mates with the outer surface 195 of the main body 110.
  • the surface 242 can have a generally tubular shape and can be concentric with the outer surface 195 of the main body 110 when the zoom selector ring 105 is in the closed position.
  • each of the segments 190, 194 extends about a portion of the main body 110.
  • the segments 190, 194 can be similarly or differently sized of the main body 110.
  • the segments 190, 194 can each extend about 180° around the tubular body 130 of the main body 110.
  • the segments 190, 194 are disposed about the main body 110 such that the two segments completely circumscribe the main body 110.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 can preferably comprise more than two segments.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 can comprise three segments that are fastened together.
  • the three segments can each extend about 120° around the tubular body 130 and can be fastened or coupled together to form a zoom selector ring 105.
  • the segments can be fastened together in a similar manner as the segments 190, 194, as discussed below. It is contemplated that any suitable number of segments can be used to form the zoom selector ring 105.
  • the segments 190, 194 may be securely coupled together to limit, preferably prevent, relative movement between the segments 190, 194, thereby forming a generally annular zoom selector ring that preferably maintains it shape during operation.
  • Figures 6, 6 A, and 6B show the selector ring 105 comprising coupling structures 210, 214 for coupling together the curved segments 190, 194.
  • the segments 190, 194 can be slid together linking the segments together.
  • the segments may be outfitted with a ridges 223 and 227 that interlock.
  • the coupling structure 210 has a slot 221 configured to receive a portion of the segment 194.
  • the slot 221 faces outwardly and is configured to receive at least a portion of the ridge 223 of the coupling structure 214.
  • the coupling structure 214 has a slot 225 configured to receive a portion of the segment 190.
  • the slot 225 faces inwardly and is configured to receive at least a portion of the ridge 227 of the coupling structure 210.
  • the slots 22i, 225 are toleranced to reduce or prevent substantial movement of the segments 190, 194 away from each other.
  • the slots 221, 255 can have ratchets, teeth, and/or other structures to prevent relative longitudinal movement between the segments 190, 194.
  • a pin can be disposed through the segments 190, 194 to prevent relative longitudinal movement between the segments 190, 194.
  • a pin is disposed through the coupling structures 210, 214 and locks the segments 190, 194 together.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 can have a structure configured to control the optical train 126.
  • the selector ring 105 has a protuberance or member 240 that can pass through the slot 170 and couple the zoom selector ring to the optical train 126, e.g., via a structure supporting the optics.
  • the protuberance 240 can extend inwardly from the inner surface 242 of the zoom selector ring 105.
  • the protuberance 240 can be located at any suitable point along the selector ring 18.
  • the protuberance 240 is preferably sized and configured to pass through the slot 170 such that the protuberance 240 can be slid along the slot 170 as the zoom selector ring 105 is rotated about the longitudinal axis 121 of the scope 100.
  • the protuberance 240 and the slot 170 can therefore cooperate to define the amount of travel of the zoom selector ring 105.
  • the protuberance 240 extends from the surface 198 of the segment 194 and passes through the slot 170 (see Figure 5) in the central narrow portion 130 of the main body 110 and continues through the wall of the tubular body 130.
  • the protuberance 240 may be configured to engage a structure supporting a portion of the optical train 126 to drive movable portions of the optical train in the longitudinal direction, as described below.
  • Figure 7 shows another embodiment of a zoom selector ring 105, wherein the selector ring 105 comprises first and second segments 190, 194 having coupling structures 210, 214, respectively, that are configured to cooperate to securely couple together the first and second segments 190 and 194.
  • the first segment 190 has a coupling structure 210 in the form of a plurality of openings or holes 21 Ia, 21 Ib on opposite sides of the segment 190.
  • the second segment 194 also has a coupling structure 214 in the form of a plurality of openings or holes 215a, 215b on opposite sides of the second segment 194.
  • one of the coupling structures 210, 214 can be configured to receive one or more fastener 216.
  • the fasteners 216 can temporarily or permanently couple together the segments 190, 194.
  • a plurality of fasteners 216 can cooperate with the coupling structures 210, 214 to hold together the segments 190, 194.
  • the fastener 216 can be a screw configured to mate with internal threads of tapped holes (e.g., the hole 211a). Accordingly, the fasteners 216 can thus be threadably coupled to the segments 190, 194 thereby preventing pull-out of the screws 216.
  • the screws 216 can be removed with proper rotation.
  • the fasteners 216 may comprise rivets or may include engagement structures that prevent pull-out of the fasteners.
  • the pins 216 can have surfaces or structures that prevent the pins from pulling out of their respective holes 211a, 215a, 211b, 215b in the selector ring 105.
  • Figures 7 and 7 A show four fasteners 216 coupling together the segments 190, 194. The number and type of such coupling structures 210, 214 and fasteners 215 can vary. In certain embodiments, for example, two fasteners 216 can couple together the segments 190, 194.
  • a seal 200 may optionally be formed between the zoom selector ring 105 and the tubular body 130.
  • at least a portion of inner surfaces 196, 198 of the segments 190, 194, respectively, can interact with the outer surface 195 of the tubular body 130 to form the seal 200.
  • the integrity of the seal 200 is preferably maintained as the zoom selector ring 105 slidably engages the tubular body 130 so that foreign matter is prevented from entering the scope 100 by, e.g., passing through the slot 170.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 can be rotated about the main body 110 while the optics remains contaminate free.
  • a substantial portion of the surface 242 of the zoom selector ring 105 engages the outer surface 195 of the scope 100 to form the seal 200.
  • a slip ring or other body can be disposed between the tubular body 130 and the selector ring 105 to reduce friction.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 has a generally uniform cross-sectional profile along its longitudinal axis.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 can have a cross-sectional profile that varies along its longitudinal axis.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 may be ergonomically designed and have a dimple that comfortably fits the fingers of the user.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 can optionally have an outer surface 204 (Figure 3) configured to be engaged by a user to easily rotate the ring 105 about the longitudinal axis 121 of the scope 100.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 can comprise an outer surface 204 adapted to provide friction between the user's fingers and the zoom selector ring 105.
  • the outer surface 204 may comprises knurling substantially about the entire outer surface 140 of the zoom selector ring 105. Serrations, roughened surfaces, and other finishing may be provided.
  • the outer surface 204 can have any suitable texture or structures for providing a gripping surface.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 can have other designs yielding the desired interaction between the user and the ring 105.
  • the outer surface 140 can be generally smooth as illustrated in Figure 7.
  • Rotational movement of the zoom selector ring 105 causes movement of the one or more lenses in the optical train 126 to provide the desired zoom.
  • rotation of the zoom selector ring 105 may cause the optics in the optics train 126 to be longitudinally displaced with respect to each other.
  • a mechanism for shifting the optical elements in the optics train 126 is discussed more fully below.
  • the positioning system 120 can be employed to laterally displace one or more optical elements in the optics train 126 and adjust the windage and/or elevation. Such approach is also discussed below.
  • the tubular body 130 preferably defines a hollow channel 131 that is configured to receive a portion of the optical train 126.
  • the optical train 126 preferably comprises a plurality of lenses including, e.g., the objective lens 180 and the ocular 152, that are arranged to provide an image of the target.
  • the optical train 126 further comprises an erector assembly 322 disposed between the ocular 152 and the objective 180.
  • the erector assembly 322 may include a plurality of lenses that inverts the image to ensure that the viewer observes erect, properly oriented, images through the scope 100.
  • the erector assembly 322 comprises an erector housing 340 that contains a plurality of erector lens elements 344, 346, 348 that are spaced along the erector housing.
  • the positioning system 120 can be used to tilt and shift a portion of the optical train 126 such as the erector assembly 322.
  • the positioning system 120 comprises the windage dial 300 (not shown) and screw (not shown) and the elevational dial 304 and screw 306.
  • the screw for the windage dial 300 and the screw 306 for the elevational dial 304 can pass through the outer surface 195 of the tubular body 130 through the opening 174.
  • the screw 306 can be advanced in and out of the tubular body 130 by rotating the elevational dial 304.
  • the elevational dial 304 can be rotated to cause vertical movement of the screw 306 which, in turn, causes vertical movement of the distal end of a erector assembly 322 or the zoom mechanism.
  • the windage dial 300 can be rotated in a similar manner to laterally displace the distal end of the erector assembly 322.
  • the windage dial 300 and the elevational dial 304 can be used to shift and/or tilt the erector assembly 322 to the desired position and orientation.
  • the optics in the erector assembly 322 may be altered by manually operating the zoom selector ring 105 thereby causing the image to appear closer or farther.
  • at least a portion of the erector assembly 322 is axially movable relative to another portion of the optical train 126 to provide telescopic zoom capability of the scope 100.
  • the erector assembly housing 340 can be configured to engage at least a portion of the zoom selector ring 105 so that manual or automatic rotation of the zoom sector ring about a longitudinal axis 121 through the scope 100 causes movement or one of more erector lens elements 344, 346, 348 in the longitudinal direction.
  • Figure 9 shows the housing 340 of the erector assembly 322 comprising an outer tubular body 350 having a cam 352 and an inner tube 354 having a slot 355.
  • the inner tube 354 fits within the outer tubular body 350.
  • the erector assembly 322 can include moveable carriages 353, 359 that can fit inside the inner tube 354 but engage the outer tubular body 350.
  • These carriages 353, 359 hold optics of the optical train 126.
  • the proximal carriage 353 supports and carries the rearward lens elements 346, 348 and the distal carriage 359 supports and carries the forward lens element 344.
  • the carriages 353, 359 can be moved with respect to the inner tube 354, outer tube 350, and main tube 110 by rotating the selector ring 105; see Figure 9.
  • a cam 352 and a notch 356 can be defined in the outer tube 350.
  • the cam 352 may be a spiral-like opening defined by the outer tube 350 and is configured to receive and slidably engage the protrusions of the carriage (see Figure 9). Other shapes are also possible.
  • a plurality of cams 352 may used.
  • the outer tube 350 includes first and second cams 362, 364. Each of the cams 362,, 364 can be configured to slidably engage a protrusions 363, 369 on the rearward and forward carriages 353, 359, respectively.
  • the length and curvature of the cams 362, 364 can be varied to achieve the desired amount of longitudinal travel of the carriages 353, 359 for a certain amount of rotation of the zoom selector ring 105.
  • the scope 100 can provide 3 X magnification when the carriages 353, 359 travel the entire length of their respectively cams 362, 364.
  • the scope can provide 5X magnifications when the carriages 353, 359 travel the entire length of their respective cams 362, 364.
  • cams 362, 364 may cause the first carriage 353 to move with respect to the second carriage 359 (or vice versus) and with respect to the objective and eyepiece.
  • first and second carriage 353, 359 can move a same amount with respect to the objective and eyepiece.
  • Other configurations are possible. For example more or less number of carriages may be used and only some of the lens elements 344, 346, 348 may be moved in certain embodiments. .
  • the notch 356 is preferably configured to receive a portion of the member 240 of the selection ring 105.
  • the notch 356 is a U-shaped notch sized to receive the member 240 shown in Figures 5 and 6B.
  • the member 240 is disposed within the notch 356 to cause rotation of outer tube 350 about the longitudinal axis 121 of the scope 100.
  • the carriages 353, 359 can move relative to each other, to the objective or to the eyepiece or any combination thereof as the protrusions 363, 369 on the respective carriages proceed along cams 362, 364.
  • the outer tube 350 has an inner surface 361.
  • the inner tube 354 has an outer surface 358 as shown in Figure 10.
  • the inner surface 361 of the outer tubular body 350 moves with respect to the outer surface 358 of the inner tube 354 as the outer tube 350 is rotated and the carriage 353, 359 are displaced.
  • the inner tube 354 is fixed, for example, to the main tube 110 to prevent rotation of the inner tube when the zoom selector ring 105 and outer tube 354 are rotated.
  • the outer surface 358 of the inner tube 354 is in substantial contact with the inner surface 361 of the outer tube 350 so as to provide sealing therebetween. Such a seal may counter formation of contaminant between the inner tube 354 and the outer tube 350 and on the optics therein.
  • the inner tube 354 provides a guide for the carriages 353, 359 as the outer tube 350 is rotated.
  • Figures 9 and 10 illustrate the connection between the inner tube 354 and the carriages 353, 359.
  • the inner tube 354 has an elongated slot 355 configured to receive protrusions 363, 369 of the carriages 353, 359.
  • the slot 355 extends proximally from the distal end of the inner tube 354.
  • the inner tube 354 can be coupled to the main body 110 (e.g., through Hp 375) to prevent or inhibit relative rotation between of the inner tube 354 and the main body 110.
  • Connection between the inner tube 354 and the main body 110 therefore preferably ensures that the inner tube 354 does not rotate relative to the main body 110 such that the carriages 353, 359 can be guided in a longitudinal direction with the rotation applied by the outer tube 350. Accordingly, the erector optics will be axially translated to provide zoom capability.
  • the scope 100 can be mounted to a firearm.
  • the firearm can have a mounting structure for receiving and holding the scope 100.
  • a user can hold and position the firearm so that the scope 100 is located in a desired position.
  • the optical train 126 of the scope 100 may include a reticle (e.g., cross-hair reticle 113 shown in Figure 2) that indicate the expected impact location of a projectile (e.g., a bullet, arrow, pellet, BB, paintball, or the like) fired from the firearm.
  • the user can operate the positioning system 120 to accommodate for windage and/or elevation. For example, if there is a cross wind, the windage may cause the projectile fired from to firearm to miss the desired target that is viewed through the scope 100.
  • the user can rotate the windage dial 300 which, in turn, rotates its corresponding screw that laterally shifts the optical train 126 to accommodate for the windage.
  • the windage dial 300 is used to position the distal end of the erector assembly 322. Once the erector assembly 322 is located in the proper position, the user can position the cross-hair reticle 113 of the scope 100 on the target and ignore the windage, which is already taken into account.
  • the user can rotate the elevational dial 304, which causes rotation and vertical movement of the screw 306 (shown in Figure 2 and 8). The screw 306 can be moved until the erector assembly 322 is tilted to the proper location. Once the erector assembly 322 is in the desired position, the user can position the cross hairs of the scope 100 on the target and disregard the elevation.
  • the user can operate the zoom selector ring 105 to obtain the desired zoom.
  • the user can rotate the zoom selector ring 105 to position one or more of the optical elements (e.g., one or more of the erector lenses 344, 346, 348) of the optical train 126 to adjust the amount of magnification of the scope 100.
  • the user can grip and twist the zoom selector ring 105 about the longitudinal axis 121 of the scope 100.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 may have a plurality of predetermined locations that correspond to a certain zoom/magnification settings.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 may be biased to several angular positions. However, in some embodiments the zoom selector ring 105 may provide a continuous range of levels of zoom. It is contemplated that the zoom selector ring 105 can be operated before, during, and/or after operation of the positioning system 120.
  • the outer tube 350 when the zoom selector ring 105 is rotated in the counter-clockwise direction about the longitudinal axis 121 from the perspective of the user, the outer tube 350 likewise rotates in the counter-clockwise direction and the carriages 353, 359 moves towards each other.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 is moved in the clockwise direction about the longitudinal axis 121 from the perspective of the user, the outer tube 350 likewise rotates in the clockwise direction and moves the carriages 353, 359 away from each other.
  • the user can therefore rotate the zoom selector ring 105 to move the erector assembly 322 to obtain a desired amount of magnification.
  • Other designs are possible.
  • the scope can be assembled by forming the continuous, uninterrupted unitary tubular main body 110.
  • the unitary main body 110 includes the objective end 114 and the eyepiece end 118 that have a cross-sectional area that is greater than the cross-sectional area of a substantial portion of the narrow tubular body 130 of main body 110.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 can be separated or split apart into a plurality of components, and the components can be assembled together to form the zoom selector ring 105.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 can be positioned in the open position, as shown in Figure 3, such that the segments 190, 194 can be located about the main body 110.
  • the segments 190, 194 can be moved together in a direction of the arrows 370, 372. If the selector ring 105 has a protrusion 240, the protrusion 240 is preferably inserted into the slot 170 in the outer tube 350 in order to have the protrusion 240 fit within the notch 356 of the erector assembly 322.
  • the segments 190, 194 can be spaced apart in the open position.
  • the segments 190, 194' can be moved together and orientated such that the holes 211a, 211b are aligned with the holes 215a, 215b, respectively.
  • the fasteners 216 can be inserted through the holes (e.g., hole 211a and hole 215a) thereby fastening segment 190 to the segment 194.
  • the zoom selection ring 105 is preferably connected to the erector assembly 322 so as to engage the optical train 126.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 is oriented so that the protuberance 240 mates with the notch 256.
  • movement of the protuberance 240 and the outer tube 350 causes rotation of the outer tube 350 of the erector assembly 322 and displacement of components of the optical train 126 along the main body 110.
  • the carriages 353, 359 move the lenses of the erector in response to rotational movement of the zoom selector ring 105.
  • Figure 13 illustrates one embodiment of a zoom selector ring 105 for a zoom assembly wherein the scope 100 has a single continuous main tubular body 110 without a slot 170 (see Figure 4 for comparison).
  • the zoom selector ring 105 is disposed on the uninterrupted tubular body 130 and is used to adjust the optics in the tubular body.
  • the zoom selector ring 105 can be used to move one or more lenses of the scope 100 even though the wall of the main body 110 is interposed between the ring 105 and the optical train 126 and the ring 105 does not directly contact the erector assembly 322.
  • the continuous, unitary cylindrical main body 110 therefore can substantially completely prevent any foreign matter from entering into the interior of the scope 100.
  • a zoom selector can use a protuberance in the zoom selector ring that passes through a slot in the main tubular body.
  • This design approach limits the amount that the zoom selector ring can rotate.
  • the circumferential length of the slot is the maximum distance that the protuberance, and thus the zoom selector ring, may travel.
  • the slot may not exceed 360° because then the main body would be split in two.
  • Two methods of achieving full rotation, and even beyond, are by incorporating one or more flexible elongated members (e.g., cable, band, etc.).
  • Figure 14 illustrates a scope 1000 with a zoom selector assembly 1001 that can be used to adjust optics to enlarge or reduce the apparent distance to the object viewed through the scope 1000.
  • the user can rotate a zoom selector ring 1010 of the zoom selector assembly 1001 to adjust how close the object appears for easier observation of the target.
  • FIG 15 illustrates the scope 1000 with the zoom selector ring removed.
  • the zoom selector assembly 1001 includes a flexible elongated member 1020 that is coupled to the outer tubular body 350 of the erector assembly 322 herein also referred to generally as the zoom selector tube 1036, shown in Figure 2a and the zoom selector ring 1010.
  • the flexible elongated member 1020 permits the zoom selector ring 1010 to rotate about a main tube 1030 so as to cause rotation of the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • the flexible elongated member 1020 interconnects the zoom selector ring 1010 and the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • the illustrated flexible elongated member 1020 extends through the main tube 1030 of the zoom selector assembly 1001.
  • the flexible elongate member 1020 is shown passing through an opening 1040 in the main tube 1030.
  • the ends of the flexible elongated member 1020 can be coupled to the inner periphery of the zoom selector ring 1010 such that rotation of the zoom selector ring 1010 causes corresponding rotation of the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • the flexible elongated member 1020 can be a wire, cable, band, fiber, bundle of fibers, or other suitable flexible structure that couples the zoom selector ring 1010 to the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • the illustrated flexible elongated member 1020 is a cable that has a sufficient length so as to wrap around the zoom selector tube 1036 one or more times, as shown in Figure 16.
  • the flexible elongated member 1020 can wrap any number of times about the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • the flexible elongated member 1020 can be wound tightly to hold to the outer surface of the tubular body 1036. Other ways can be used to adhere the elongate member 1020 to the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • Figure 17 illustrates the flexible elongated member 1020 wound about a proximal end 1038 of the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • the proximal end 1038 has a groove or channel that receives that flexible elongated member 1020.
  • the flexible elongated member 1020 is disposed in a groove. The groove can limit movement of the flexible elongated member 1020 along the longitudinal axis of the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • the flexible elongated member 1020 can engage a smooth surface of the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • Figure 18 shows an example of the flexible elongate member 1020 comprising a cable.
  • Non-limiting embodiments of flexible elongated members 1020 can comprise metal (e.g., steel, aluminum), polymers (e.g., nylon, polyester, polyethylene, etc.), natural or synthetic fibers, and the like.
  • the elongated members can comprise a braided or woven material, if desired. The type of elongated member employed can be selected based on the particular design.
  • FIGs 19A-19C illustrate the zoom selector ring 1010 in various positions.
  • the zoom selector assembly 1001 includes the zoom selector ring 1010 and the flexible elongated member 1020 in the form of a single cable depicted split up into three portions for illustrative purposes.
  • the flexible elongated member 1020 can be interposed between the outer surface 1038 of the main tube 1030 and the inner surface of the zoom selector ring 1010.
  • the first portion 1022 of the flexible elongated member 1020 (shown by short line segments) is coupled to the zoom selector ring 1010.
  • the first portion 1022 wraps around the main tube 1030 and then extends through the opening 1040 in the main tube 1030.
  • the first portion 1022 is interposed between the zoom selector ring 1010 and the main tube 1030.
  • the main tube 1030 can have one or more openings 1040.
  • the openings need not have a specific shapes or sizes and may, for example, includes slits or other shaped apertures.
  • the flexible elongated body 1020 continues (illustrated by intermediately dashed lines 1024) wrapping around the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • Figure 19 A shows the flexible elongated member 1020 wrapped around the zoom selector tube 1036 two times, but those of skill in the art will recognize that the flexible elongated member 1020 can be wrapped around the zoom selector tube 1036 any number of times to achieve the desired level of friction.
  • the flexible elongated member 1020 continues (illustrated by long dashed lines 1026) through the slot 1040 in the main tube 1030, wraps around the main tube 1030 once, and is coupled to the zoom selector ring 1010 at a location 1071. In the illustrated embodiment, the ends 1028 and 1029 of the flexible elongated member 1020 are coupled to the zoom selector ring 1010.
  • Figure 19B illustrates the zoom selector ring 1010 rotated approximately 48° from an initial position 1 illustrated in Figure 19A. That is, the zoom selector ring 1010 can be rotated in the direction indicated by the arrow 1060 to the intermediate position 1' of Figure 19B. As the zoom selector ring 1010 rotates clockwise, the zoom selector tube 1036 also rotates clockwise, as illustrated by arrow 1061. Rotation of the zoom selector tube 1036 causes longitudinal movement of lenses within the zoom selector tube 1036 tube thereby adjusting zoom.
  • the third portion 1026 of the flexible elongate member 1020 is coupled to the zoom selector ring 1010 such that as the zoom selector ring 1010 is turned, the third portion of the flexible elongated member 1020 is pulled out of the slot 1040 between the main tube 1030 and the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • the transition 1051 from the third portion 1026 to the second portion 1024 moved to a location outside the main tube 1030 between the zoom selector ring 1010 and the main tube 1030.
  • the first portion 1022 of the flexible elongate member has been pulled between the main tube 1030 and the zoom selector tube 1036 through the slot 1040 in the main tube 1030.
  • the diameter of the zoom selector ring 1010 is generally about twice the diameter of the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • the zoom selector tube 1036 would rotate roughly twice as far as the zoom selector ring 1010, to about 96°, about the same central axis.
  • the diameters of the zoom selector ring 1010 and the zoom selector tube 1036 can be selected to achieve the desired rotational movement.
  • Figure 19C illustrates further turning of the zoom selector ring 1010 to a location more than 360° from the initial position 1 illustrated in Figure 19A.
  • the third portion 1026 continues to pull some of the flexible elongated body 1020 out from between the zoom selector tube 1036 and the main tube 1030, through the slot 1040 and into the gap between the zoom selector ring 1010 and the main tube 1030.
  • the second portion 1024 is pulled out of the gap between the main tube 1030 and the zoom selector tube 1036 slot 1040 in the main tube 1030 and into the gap between the zoom selector ring 1010 and the main tube 1030.
  • the first portion 1022 is pulled even further into the gap between the main tube 1030 and the zoom selector tube 1036 through the slot 1040 in the main tube 1030.
  • the first portion 1022 now nearly completely wraps around the zoom selector tube 1036 twice before connecting with the second portion 1024, and does not wrap around the main tube 1030 at all.
  • Figure 19A where the first portion 1022 wrapped around the main tube 1030 and then barely entered the gap between the main tube 1030 and the zoom selector tube 1036 through the slot 1040 in the main tube 1030.
  • the second portion 1024 is wrapped around the zoom selector tube 1036 roughly twice, whereas in Figure 19C, the second portion 1024 does not wrap around the zoom selector tube 1036 even a full rotation because it has been pulled into the gap between the zoom selector ring 1010 and the main tube 1030 through the slot 1040 in the main tube 1030.
  • the zoom selector ring 1010 can be rotated to cause rotation of the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • the zoom selector ring 1010 has been rotated from reference position 1 to a point past a complete clockwise rotation past the reference position 1 to position 1".
  • the zoom selector tube 1036 has rotated from reference position 2 past reference position 2' to position 2".
  • the diameter of the zoom selector ring 1010 is generally about twice the diameter of the zoom selector tube 1036, so rotating the zoom selector ring 1010 roughly 365° would cause a corresponding rotation of roughly 730° in the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • Rotation of the zoom selector ring 1010 in the opposite direction can cause rotation of the zoom selector tube 1036 in the opposite direction, where the first portion 1022 would pull the flexible elongated body 1020 out of the gap between the main tube 1030 and the zoom selector tube 1036 back through the slot 1040 in the main tube 1030 into the gap between the zoom selector ring 1010 and the main tube 1030.
  • the second portion 1024 would be pulled back into the gap between the main tube 1030 and the zoom selector ring 1010 through the slot 1040 in the main tube 1030.
  • Figures 20-24 illustrate a zoom selector assembly 1200 and zoom selector tube 1036 that is generally similar to that illustrated in Figures 15-19C, except as detailed below.
  • the illustrated zoom selector assembly 1200 can be rotated to cause rotation of the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • the flexible elongated member 1220 can connect the zoom selector ring 1010 (shown in Figure 21) to the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • Figure 23 illustrates the elongated member 1220 in the form of a somewhat rigid band.
  • the elongated member 1220 is coupled to a zoom selector ring 1010 of the zoom selector assembly 1200.
  • the elongated member 1220 is a band that has end 1250 that is embedded in the zoom selector ring 1010.
  • the zoom selector tube 1036 is also rotated.
  • the band 1220 can wrap around the zoom selector tube 1036 any number of times.
  • the illustrated band 1220 wraps around the zoom selector tube 1036 roughly once before being coupled in the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • the length of the band can be increased or decreased to increase or decrease, respectively, the angle that the zoom selector ring may be turned.
  • Figure 24B illustrates the zoom selector ring 1240 located at an intermediate position 1'.
  • the zoom selector ring 1010 moves from the initial position 1 in Figure 24A to the intermediate position 1' of Figure 24B, the band 1220 is pulled out of the slot 1040 in the main tube 1030. Because the band 1220 is coupled to the zoom selector tube 1036, the pulling of the band 1220 causes rotation of the zoom selector tube 1036.
  • FIG 24B the zoom selector ring 1010 has been turned about 140° from the initial position 1 of Figure 24A to position 1 ⁇
  • the zoom selector tube 1036 will rotate roughly 280° from reference position 2 to position 2' because the depicted embodiment has a zoom selector ring 1010 diameter roughly twice the zoom selector tube 1036 diameter.
  • the zoom selector tube 1036 and zoom selector ring 1010 can have other diameters also.
  • Figure 24C illustrates the zoom selector ring 1010 positioned roughly 185° from reference position 1 to position 1".
  • the band 1220 has been pulled nearly completely out of the gap between the zoom selector tube 1036 and the main tube 1030 through the slot 1040.
  • a 185° turn in the zoom selector ring 1010 would cause a corresponding turn in the zoom selector tube 1036 from position 2 to position 2" at roughly 370°.
  • the band 1220 embodiment illustrated in Figures 24A-24C pushes the zoom selector tube 1036 as the zoom selector ring 1010 is rotated in the opposite direction.
  • the rigidity of the band 1220 allows for such pushing.
  • the band 1220 may be flexible, but the band 1220 can still be used to push the zoom selector tube 1036 because the gap between the zoom selector ring 1010 and the main tube 1030 and between the main tube 1030 and the zoom selector tube 1036 is sufficiently small to permit the band to slide therebetween without bunching or compressing so as to actuate rotation of the zoom selector tube 1036 by pushing.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Astronomy & Astrophysics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Telescopes (AREA)
  • Instruments For Viewing The Inside Of Hollow Bodies (AREA)
  • Endoscopes (AREA)
  • Aiming, Guidance, Guns With A Light Source, Armor, Camouflage, And Targets (AREA)

Abstract

Scope de vision comprenant un ensemble zoom et un moyen d'ajustement de zoom sur le corps du scope. Dans un mode de réalisation, le moyen d'ajustement de zoom est une bague montée sur le corps du scope. Le moyen d'ajustement de zoom et l'ensemble zoom sont reliés par un élément flexible traversant une ouverture prévue dans le corps du scope.
PCT/US2006/047144 2005-12-07 2006-12-07 Scope avec ensemble flexible d'element de zoom WO2007067796A2 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US74835905P 2005-12-07 2005-12-07
US60/748,359 2005-12-07

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WO2007067796A2 true WO2007067796A2 (fr) 2007-06-14
WO2007067796A3 WO2007067796A3 (fr) 2008-05-08

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Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6108146A (en) * 1999-03-31 2000-08-22 Eastman Kodak Company Zoom assembly having an improved cam barrel

Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6108146A (en) * 1999-03-31 2000-08-22 Eastman Kodak Company Zoom assembly having an improved cam barrel

Also Published As

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WO2007067796A3 (fr) 2008-05-08

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