Compensating For Weapon Movement (e.g., Tilt) Patents (Class 235/407)
  • Patent number: 11898820
    Abstract: A targeting system operable to be used with a bow to assist an operator with striking a target with a projectile. The targeting system comprising an accelerometer configured to generate acceleration data, an attitude sensor configured to generate attitude data, a display, a memory, and a processor. The processor is configured to profile steadiness using the acceleration data, profile roll using the attitude data, present on the display based on the steadiness profile one of an indication of unsteadiness represented by circular segments of relatively greater diameter with relatively greater unsteadiness, and an indication of steadiness represented by absence of the circular segments, and present on the display based on the roll profile one of an indication of level represented by at least one horizontal line and an indication of roll represented by at least one canted triangle and absence of the at least one horizontal line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Inventors: Peter A. Hindman, Chad A. VanCamp, Joe Ryan Dejmal, Joseph T. Lunde, Robert P. Bernard
  • Patent number: 11776169
    Abstract: A wearable electronic device displays an impact location that shows where a projectile fired from a weapon will hit a target and displays a bullseye location that shows a desired location where to hit the target. The wearable electronic device indicates firing the weapon when the impact location overlaps with the bullseye location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Inventor: Philip Lyren
  • Patent number: 11629932
    Abstract: A long-range optical device (1), in particular a telescopic sight, comprising a reticle (6), the position of which is adjustable, and an associated reticle adjustment device (7) for adjusting the position of the reticle (6), a magnetic device (16) comprising a plurality of magnetic elements (16a, 16b), a detection device (18) associated with the magnetic device (16), wherein the magnetic device (16) is mounted so as to be movable relative to the detection device (18) and/or the detection device (18) is mounted so as to be movable relative to the magnetic device (16), wherein the detection device (18) is configured to detect the relative movements between the magnetic device (16) and the detection device (18) and, based on detected relative movements between the magnetic device (16) and the detection device (18), to generate reticle position information describing the position of the reticle (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2023
    Assignee: STEINER-OPTIK GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Haag, Matthias Ruckdeschel
  • Patent number: 11592645
    Abstract: The invention relates to binoculars and a method for adjusting an interpupillary distance of binoculars, comprising a first housing half having a first eyepiece with a first optical axis, a second housing half having a second eyepiece with a second optical axis, wherein the distance of the first optical axis to the second optical axis defines an interpupillary distance and wherein the first housing half and the second housing half are hingedly connected to each other by means of at least one folding bridge and wherein the folding bridge comprises a first folding bridge portio coupled with the first housing half and a second folding bridge portion coupled with the second housing half and wherein the interpupillary distance may be changed by pivoting the two housing halves and wherein a detection device is formed, by means of which the interpupillary distance may be determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Inventors: Martin Leitner, Lukas Klingenschmid
  • Patent number: 11391541
    Abstract: An electronic sighting apparatus is programmed or configured to stretch or adjust a reticle as part of a set up or calibration process using a dedicated input button on an electronic scope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Inventors: Mickey M. Kennedy, Han-Che Chen
  • Patent number: 11250617
    Abstract: A technology is described for capturing electronic images of a three-dimensional environment using a virtual camera. In one example of the technology, positioning data may be obtained for a camera control device in a physical environment. The positioning data may define a physical position and physical orientation of the camera control device in the physical environment. A virtual camera may be placed and controlled in a virtual three-dimensional (3D) environment using in part the positioning data for the camera control device to determine a virtual position and virtual orientation of the virtual camera in the virtual 3D environment. A view of the virtual 3D environment, from a viewpoint of the virtual camera, may be determined using the virtual position and virtual orientation of the virtual camera in the virtual 3D environment, and electronic images of the virtual 3D environment may be rendered as defined by the view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Luis Sempe, Christopher Scot Roby
  • Patent number: 10578400
    Abstract: A sight includes a main body, an objective unit, an eyepiece unit, an inner lens barrel, an adjusting ring and an indicating structure. The main body has a first end portion and a second end portion. The objective unit is connected to the first end portion. The eyepiece unit is connected to the second end portion. The inner lens barrel is disposed in the main body, wherein the objective unit, the inner lens barrel and the eyepiece unit are sequentially arranged to form an optical axis. The adjusting ring is rotatably disposed on the main body. The indicating structure is disposed on the adjusting ring and includes an illuminating element and an optical transmitting element. When the sight is connected to an electronic device, the illuminating element emits a light beam, and the light beam passes through the optical transmitting element for generating an indicating sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignees: SINTAI OPTICAL (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD., ASIA OPTICAL CO., INC.
    Inventors: Sung-Po Cheng, Chin-Teng Lin, Chia-Kan Chang, Shang-Yung Liang
  • Patent number: 10473793
    Abstract: A method is provided of enhancing GPS data of a host vehicle within a cluster. V2V messages within the cluster are exchanged. A respective vehicle having a highest GPS trust factor is identified utilizing GPS data within the V2V messages. The GPS data of the host vehicle is adjusted as a function of GPS position of the identified vehicle and relative position data between the host vehicle and the identified vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Cynthia M. Neubecker, Somak Datta Gupta, Oliver Lei, Allen R. Murray
  • Patent number: 10302396
    Abstract: A method of training a human for a marksmanship task using a training apparatus, and the apparatus therefor. The apparatus senses and records motions within a time window. The method includes sensing and recording motions sensed by the one or more sensors, detecting a synchronization event, analyzing the sensed and recorded motions that were sensed in the time window, comparing the analyzed sensed and recorded motions with a set of desired analyzed motions to generate difference data; and, responsive to the comparing, presenting to the user in the user's field of perception visual feedback indicating one or both the direction and magnitude of deviation from the set of desired analyzed motions. The presenting the visual feedback to the user is essentially instantaneous, e.g., commencing no later than 10 ms (at most 100 ms) after the synchronization event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Kinetrope LLC.
    Inventors: Kevin B. Ray, Steven Weinstein
  • Patent number: 9683813
    Abstract: New targeting systems, hardware and techniques are provided. In a preferred embodiment, a system enables a sniper to, in effect, take a projected, trial shot at a subject within an environment, evaluate its effectiveness, and execute it if satisfied. A user may create, set, adjust and execute Impact Point indicators, corresponding with projected points of impact of a projectile on a target subject within a target environment. The system may counteract and otherwise adjust for certain ballistic and environmental factors in a firing mechanism to maintain such an Impact Point fire ready, in real time. Yet the system allows the user to continue to move the sight to engage in further targeting activity. In other aspects, the system may execute multiple impact points, together or in rapid succession, which impact points may surround, lead, cover or otherwise diversify their distribution about a targeting subject and/or its projected path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2017
    Inventor: Christopher V. Beckman
  • Patent number: 9593913
    Abstract: A digital positioning system that interfaces with a portable weapon to automatically realign the weapon through and after a firing shock that saturates electronic components of the portable weapon. The digital positioning system includes a digital fire control device that receives target destination data. The digital fire control device transmits the target destination data to an automatic calibration and pointing device, which, in turn, generates a reference orientation from the target destination data. In response to the firing shock, the automatic calibration and pointing device acquires a current orientation of the portable weapon, independently of the saturated electronic components, and compares the current orientation to the stored reference orientation for causing a mechanical alignment and orientation mechanism to reposition the portable weapon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Michael T. Wright, Peter Tewksbury, James Marraccini
  • Patent number: 9140521
    Abstract: An improved electronic aiming device for use with a weapon or other manually aimed device. Means are provided to vary the field of view, determine range to target, compensate for bullet drop, and to compensate for crosswind, without removing either hand from the weapon, by monitoring the tilt of the weapon upon which the device is mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Inventor: James A. Millett
  • Patent number: 9127907
    Abstract: A precision guided firearm (PGF) includes a trigger assembly and an optical device coupled to the trigger assembly. The optical device is to predict a time when an aim point of the PGF is less than a programmable threshold distance from a selected location on a target and to control the trigger assembly to discharge the PGF at the time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: TrackingPoint, Inc.
    Inventors: John Hancock Lupher, Stefanie Kwan, Douglas Ainsworth Scott, Michael Toal
  • Patent number: 9038901
    Abstract: An optical device includes a housing containing a plurality of lenses. At least one of those lenses includes a reticle. An optical device and a processor are also located in the housing. A wind speed sensor is mounted to the housing and configured to send a wind speed signal corresponding to a wind speed to the processor. The processor calculates a wind speed based at least in part on the wind speed signal, and wherein the processor sends an output signal corresponding to the calculated wind speed to the output device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Burris Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas F. Paterson, Steven A. Bennetts
  • Patent number: 9033232
    Abstract: An electromechanical system translates an “aiming error” signal from a target tracking system into dynamic “pointing corrections” for handheld devices to drastically reduce pointing errors due to man-machine wobble without specific direction by the user. The active stabilization targeting correction system works by separating the “support” features of the handheld device from the “projectile launching” features, and controlling their respective motion by electromechanical mechanisms. When a target is visually acquired, the angular deflection (both horizontal windage and vertical elevation) and aiming errors due to man-machine wobble (both vertical and horizontal) from the target's location to the current point-of-aim can be quickly measured by the ballistic computer located internal to a target tracking device. These values are transmitted to calibrated encoded electromechanical actuators that position the isolated components to rapidly correct angular deflection to match the previous aiming error.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: ROCKSIGHT HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventor: Bryan Sterling Bockmon
  • Patent number: 9025040
    Abstract: A rifle scope includes an image sensor configured to capture visual data corresponding to a view area, a display, and a controller coupled to the display and the image sensor. The controller is configured to apply a first stabilization parameter to at least a portion of the visual data to produce a stabilized view, to provide the stabilized view and a reticle to the display, and to apply a second stabilization parameter to stabilize the reticle relative to the stabilized view in response to motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: TrackingPoint, Inc.
    Inventors: Dane Andrew Thyssen, John Hancock Lupher
  • Publication number: 20150069121
    Abstract: A sight and methods of operation thereof are provided. In some embodiments, an image is captured via an image capture unit, and a center position is calculated according to the positions of at least three impact points in the image, and a predefined view center of a display unit is set to the center position. In some embodiments, an angle of dip of the sight to a plane is detected via a dip angle detector. A predictive impact point is calculated according to the angle of dip and at least one calculation parameter, and an impact point indication is accordingly displayed in the display unit. When the angle of dip is changed, the predictive impact point is recalculated according to the new angle of dip, and the corresponding impact point indication is displayed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: Yen-Chao Chen, Chih-Hsien Lin, Tsung-Wei Lin, Szu-Han Wu, Jen-Chih Chung, Yung-Sheng Chiang
  • Patent number: 8955749
    Abstract: An aiming system for portable weapons comprising pairs of inertial sensors of gyroscopic, accelerometer and magnetometric type arranged respectively on a weapon and on an helmet with Head Up Display, so as to determine both the relative orientation and the relative position in space of the weapon and of the helmet, with consequent display of the line of fire on the Head Up Display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Selex ES S.p.A.
    Inventor: Alessandro Elefante
  • Publication number: 20140332589
    Abstract: An electromechanical system translates an “aiming error” signal from a target tracking system into dynamic “pointing corrections” for handheld devices to drastically reduce pointing errors due to man-machine wobble without specific direction by the user. The active stabilization targeting correction system works by separating the “support” features of the handheld device from the “projectile launching” features, and controlling their respective motion by electromechanical mechanisms. When a target is visually acquired, the angular deflection (both horizontal windage and vertical elevation) and aiming errors due to man-machine wobble (both vertical and horizontal) from the target's location to the current point-of-aim can be quickly measured by the ballistic computer located internal to a target tracking device. These values are transmitted to calibrated encoded electromechanical actuators that position the isolated components to rapidly correct angular deflection to match the previous aiming error.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Inventor: Bryan Sterling Bockmon
  • Publication number: 20140319217
    Abstract: An aiming system for portable weapons comprising pairs of inertial sensors of gyroscopic, accelerometer and magnetometric type arranged respectively on a weapon and on an helmet with Head Up Display, so as to determine both the relative orientation and the relative position in space of the weapon and of the helmet, with consequent display of the line of fire on the Head Up Display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Alessandro Elefante
  • Patent number: 8857714
    Abstract: A system can include a camera configured to mount to a firearm and a scope configured to mount to the firearm. A display can be configured to show an image from the camera. The scope can be configured to view the display. The image from the camera can be electronically movable relative to scope and camera to facilitate compensation for bullet drop and windage. Moving the image can allow use of higher scope magnification and/or electronic camera zoom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: FLIR Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert G. Benson
  • Patent number: 8807430
    Abstract: An improved electronic aiming device for use with a weapon or other manually aimed device. Means are provided to vary the field of view, determine range to target, compensate for bullet drop, and to compensate for crosswind, without removing either hand from the weapon, by monitoring the tilt of the weapon upon which the device is mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventor: James Allen Millett
  • Publication number: 20140166750
    Abstract: A sight and methods of operation thereof are provided. In some embodiments, an image is captured via an image capture unit, and a center position is calculated according to the positions of at least three impact points in the image, and a predefined view center of a display unit is set to the center position. In some embodiments, an angle of dip of the sight to a plane is detected via a dip angle detector. A predictive impact point is calculated according to the angle of dip and at least one calculation parameter, and an impact point indication is accordingly displayed in the display unit. When the angle of dip is changed, the predictive impact point is recalculated according to the new angle of dip, and the corresponding impact point indication is displayed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicants: ASIA OPTICAL INTERNATIONAL LTD., SINTAI OPTICAL (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: SINTAI OPTICAL (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD., ASIA OPTICAL INTERNATIONAL LTD.
  • Publication number: 20140124575
    Abstract: A digital targeting scope apparatus includes an image sensor and a lens for acquiring video images of objects at which the aiming device is aimed; an image processor; a tilt sensor; and a display component for displaying the video images captured by the image sensor, all mounted in a tubular housing. An interchangeable digital camera module is carried by the first end of the housing. A control/display module is removably fastened to the second end of the housing. The control/display module is electrically connected to the camera module through a connector on the sensor circuit board of the camera module when the control/display module is installed in the second end of the housing. The control portion includes a circuit board and a display component mounted thereon. The display portion houses an eyepiece lens assembly aligned with the display component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Inventor: James A. Millett
  • Publication number: 20140103112
    Abstract: A gun sight is disclosed herein for use with a weapon configured for superelevation. The gun sight includes, but is not limited to, an imaging system configured to capture an image of an area down range of the imaging system, to display the image on a display unit having a display, and further configured to rotate in elevation. The gun sight further includes, but is not limited to, a drive mechanism configured to rotate the imaging system. The gun sight still further includes, but is not limited to, a processor communicatively coupled with the drive mechanism and with the imaging system, the processor configured to receive information from the imaging system relating to the image and to control the drive mechanism based on the information to rotate the imaging system in a manner that causes the image to remain on the display when the weapon is superelevated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products, Inc.
    Inventor: General Dynamics Armament and Technical Prod
  • Patent number: 8678282
    Abstract: Systems, apparatus, and methods are provided which: (a) receive wired or wireless transmission of information regarding an orientation of a weapon; (b) receive wired or wireless transmission of information regarding an orientation of a viewing area of a head-mounted display apparatus; (c) process ballistic information of ammunition to be fired by the weapon and the information regarding the orientations of the weapon and the viewing area to obtain a calculated endpoint of the ammunition to be fired by the weapon; and (d) display an icon (e.g., a crosshair) representative of the endpoint of the ammunition in the viewing area of the head-mounted display apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Jason Black, Gregory A. Harrison, David Alan Smith
  • Patent number: 8661962
    Abstract: An apparatus for mounting an electronics unit, such as a digital pointing device, to a mortar bipod may include a pair of spaced-apart, generally parallel mounting brackets having respective inner faces. A pair of support rails may be fixed to opposite outer edges of the mounting brackets. A pair of support rods may be fixed between opposite lower portions of the mounting brackets. A lower guide rod housing may be fixed to first ends of the support rails. A pair of fire control guide rods may have first ends fixed to the lower guide rod housing. A plurality of shock mounts may have respective bases and tops. The shock mount bases may be fixed to the respective inner faces of the mounting brackets. The electronics unit may include a top plate fixed thereto. A pair of side plates may be fixed to the top plate. The side plates may extend generally perpendicularly from the top plate. The tops of the shock mounts may be fixed to the side plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Jeffery Hart, Scott Montanio, Benjamin Lewin, Steven McDonald, Raul Galliano, John N. Gravina
  • Patent number: 8651381
    Abstract: A sighting apparatus for a firearm includes a video camera capable of capturing and tracking the path of a projectile The captured images are taken generally concurrently with the firing of the first projectile, and with the projectile reaching the target. A video display includes a reticle positioned at the center of the display to permit the user to aim the firearm by positioning the reticle over the target. A processor receives captured images from the camera. An output interface delivers information to the video display to enable the video display to display images of the target area. Software and a processor determine the flight path of the projectile and the point where the projectile impacts or passes by the intended target and adjusts for the variance between the two points by moving the image on the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: David Rudich
  • Publication number: 20140042224
    Abstract: An improved electronic aiming device for use with a weapon or other manually aimed device. Means are provided to vary the field of view, determine range to target, compensate for bullet drop, and to compensate for crosswind, without removing either hand from the weapon, by monitoring the tilt of the weapon upon which the device is mounted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Inventor: James A. Millett
  • Publication number: 20140008435
    Abstract: An optical sight device includes a housing, a display panel and a reflecting element. The reflecting element is disposed in the housing. The reflecting element is disposed along an optical path defined from a point of an observer looking through the housing to the display panel. The reflecting element is provided between the observer and the display panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventor: Jeung Bo SUN
  • Patent number: 8550346
    Abstract: Systems and methods allow for intercepting a small, low-altitude and low-velocity target. A system includes a detecting apparatus, a directing control apparatus, an aiming control apparatus, a launch control apparatus, a launching device, and an intercepting device. A method includes: searching and tracking a target by the detecting apparatus in a networking mode, or by the aiming control apparatus in a single-soldier mode; sending target information to the launch control apparatus; performing a trajectory calculation by the launch control apparatus; and launching the intercepting device by the launching device to intercept the target. A low-cost system with a short response time can thus be realized. The target falls with the net at a low velocity under a parachute, and this is desirable in a city environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Beijing Mechanical Equipment Institute
    Inventors: Hao Liu, Shengjie Wang, Xuchang Ding, Xiaoming Wei, Shuyong Han, Xuyang Qiu, Kegang Chi, Yan Shen, Aifeng Chen, Yulong Tang
  • Publication number: 20130228618
    Abstract: An improved electronic aiming device for use with a weapon or other manually aimed device. Means are provided to vary the field of view, determine range to target, compensate for bullet drop, and to compensate for crosswind, without removing either hand from the weapon, by monitoring the tilt of the weapon upon which the device is mounted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Inventor: James Allen Millett
  • Publication number: 20130214045
    Abstract: Systems and methods allow for intercepting a small, low-altitude and low-velocity target. A system includes a detecting apparatus, a directing control apparatus, an aiming control apparatus, a launch control apparatus, a launching device, and an intercepting device. A method includes: searching and tracking a target by the detecting apparatus in a networking mode, or by the aiming control apparatus in a single-soldier mode; sending target information to the launch control apparatus; performing a trajectory calculation by the launch control apparatus; and launching the intercepting device by the launching device to intercept the target. A low-cost system with a short response time can thus be realized. The target falls with the net at a low velocity under a parachute, and this is desirable in a city environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2013
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: BEIJING MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT INSTITUTE
    Inventor: BEIJING MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT INSTITUTE
  • Patent number: 8453368
    Abstract: An electromechanical system translates an “aiming error” signal from a target tracking system into dynamic “pointing corrections” for handheld devices to drastically reduce pointing errors due to man-machine wobble without specific direction by the user. The active stabilization targeting correction system works by separating the “support” features of the handheld device from the “projectile launching” features, and controlling their respective motion by electromechanical mechanisms. When a target is visually acquired, the angular deflection (both horizontal windage and vertical elevation) and aiming errors due to man-machine wobble (both vertical and horizontal) from the target's location to the current point-of-aim can be quickly measured by the ballistic computer located internal to a target tracking device. These values are transmitted to calibrated encoded electromechanical actuators that position the isolated components to rapidly correct angular deflection to match the previous aiming error.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Rocky Mountain Scientific Laboratory, LLC
    Inventor: Bryan Sterling Bockmon
  • Patent number: 8336776
    Abstract: An aiming system for use with a weapon is provided and may include a processor, at least one sensor in communication with the processor, and a memory in communication with the processor. The aiming system may also include a display in communication with the processor that displays a corrected-aiming point based on at least one simulated bullet trajectory and at least one simulated bullet impact location determined by the processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Trijicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Horvath, Aaron Adkins, Richard Willard, Paul Stoltz
  • Patent number: 8286871
    Abstract: An archery sighting system and method for placing a reticule on a display. The system includes a housing mounted in fixed relation to a bow. The housing includes a rangefinder to generate a target distance signal indicative of a target distance between the bow and a target. A display is configured to depict a reticule. A chronograph generates a bow speed indicating a bow speed at which an arrow leaves the bow. A processor receives a bow speed signal from the chronograph, a range signal from the rangefinder. In response to the signals, the processor generates a reticule pattern on the display, the reticule is positioned to indicate an attitude of the bow necessary for an arrow released from the bow at the bow speed to strike a target at the target distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Clean Shot Archery, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry Bay
  • Publication number: 20120145786
    Abstract: A weapon system comprises a first, second and third sensor and a range detecting means. The weapon system further comprises a weapons platform removably mounted to a moveable vehicle. The weapons platform includes a gun. The first sensor is mechanically attached to the gun for sensing an image. The second sensor senses a position of the gun, including at least an elevation and azimuth. The third sensor detects a rate and altitude of the moveable vehicle. The range detecting means detects a range of the gun to the target. The weapon system also comprises an image processor for processing the image from the first sensor, a display for displaying the processed image and a controller. The controller calculates an expected impact point for a round of fire based upon the sensed and detected data, and superimposes the expected impact point on the processed image on the display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: BAE SYSTEMS CONTROLS, INC.
    Inventor: Christopher S. Weaver
  • Publication number: 20120132709
    Abstract: A method for stabilizing an image and compensating for movement of a weapon is provided, comprising: providing an image stabilization device for an optical scope mounted on a weapon, wherein the image stabilization device includes a sensor to detect motion of the weapon; providing a trigger release device operatively connected to a trigger on the weapon; detecting movement of the weapon by the sensor; generating an output signal from the sensor, wherein the output signal corresponds to the position and velocity of the weapon in a plane perpendicular to the line of sight; processing the output signal to determine an optimal release period, and then generating a release signal during the release period; and using the release signal to activate the trigger release.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventor: John William Lowrey, III
  • Patent number: 8152065
    Abstract: A hand controller for controlling an electro-optic sensor of a weapons system may include a first cam/spring mechanism configured to provide non-linear displacement to an operator applying a torque to rotate the hand controller in a first direction. A second cam/spring mechanism may be configured to provide non-linear displacement to an operator applying a torque to rotate the hand controller in a second direction. A first sensor may be configured to sense torque being applied in the first direction and to generate a command signal to control rotation of the electro-optic sensor in the first direction. A second sensor may be configured to sense torque being applied in the second direction and to generate a command signal to control rotation of the electro-optic sensor in the second direction. The command signals may be substantially mathematically proportional rate command signals with respect to applied torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: DRS Sustainment Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Talir, Thomas Linton
  • Publication number: 20120037702
    Abstract: In methods and apparatuses, a weapon includes a trigger module for sensing trigger input from a shooter and generating a trigger signal, and a firing module for controlling firing of a projectile responsive to a fire control signal. The weapon also includes an image sensor configured for mounting on the weapon and sensing a series of images over a time period of interest while the trigger signal is in a motion-estimation state. A controller is configured for determining when to fire the weapon by receiving the images from the image sensor and generating a motion estimation history over the time period of interest responsive to changes in the images. The controller is also configured for determining a centroid of the motion estimation history and asserting the fire control signal when the trigger signal is in a fire-enable state and a current image is within an offset threshold from the centroid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: ALLIANT TECHSYSTEMS INC.
    Inventor: William B. Kude
  • Publication number: 20120000979
    Abstract: An aiming system for use with a weapon is provided and may include a processor, at least one sensor in communication with the processor, and a memory in communication with the processor. The aiming system may also include a display in communication with the processor that displays a corrected-aiming point based on at least one simulated bullet trajectory and at least one simulated bullet impact location determined by the processor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: TRIJICON, INC.
    Inventors: Anthony Horvath, Aaron Adkins, Edward J. Haney, Richard Willard, Paul Stoltz
  • Publication number: 20110297742
    Abstract: A method and system for improving precision and accuracy of weaponry according to which angular position information of the fire control device and optical location information of the optical signals emitted during the flight of a projectile are processed in a computer using software to calculate and provide a precise aim point for firing one or more subsequent projectiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2008
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventors: Kevin Michael Sullivan, Jacob Stefanus Budricks
  • Patent number: 8033464
    Abstract: An automatic optical sighting system generates at least one adjustment for an adjustable optical system based on at least one detected condition, an appropriate dynamic model of a projectile in flight, and a solution of the equations of motion in flight, so that the projectile will have a trajectory between an origin and a selected target that helps the projectile to hit the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventors: Bernard T. Windauer, William True McDonald, Ted C. Almgren
  • Publication number: 20110114725
    Abstract: An optical sighting system includes an optical sight having a projected aiming point, a range finder configured to determine a range of an intended impact point, at least one environmental sensor configured to sense at least one environmental condition, and a computing device in communication with the range finder and the environmental sensor to receive the range and the environmental condition from the range finder and the environmental sensor respectively. The computing device includes a computer readable medium having instructions encoded thereon that when executed perform steps for calculating a compensated position for the projected aiming point based on the range and the environmental condition, and providing instructions to an aimpoint compensator to automatically move the projected aiming point to the compensated position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventor: Nicholas E. Young
  • Patent number: 7916335
    Abstract: A system including a sensing device and a printer is disclosed. The sensing device and the printer are in communication with each other. The sensing device is for sensing first coded data included in a first interface disposed on a first surface. The printer is configured to receive, from the sensing device, data representative of the sensed first coded data, to send data based on the received data to a computer system, to receive response data from the computer system, the response data being derived by the computer system from the data sent to the computer system and identifying a unique identity of a second interface, to generate the second interface based at least partially on the response data, the second interface comprising second coded data encoding the unique identity of the second interface, and to print the second interface onto a second surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Kia Silverbrook, Paul Lapstun
  • Publication number: 20110042459
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are stabilized weapon mount systems that allow a gunner (i.e. operator of a weapon) to mount and operate a standard weapon in a manner similar to a stand-alone weapon while compensating for the motion of the platform. The system includes an aiming gimbal that is movable by an operator during stabilization into an aiming orientation directed toward a target and a stabilization gimbal nested within the aiming gimbal and adapted to securely couple to a weapon. The stabilization gimbal and aiming gimbal are mechanically coupled by a control unit such that the stabilization gimbal is moved by the control unit and the aiming gimbal is not moved by the control unit. A stabilization device automatically commands the control unit to move the stabilization gimbal relative to the aiming gimbal using the motors to correct for the base movement and maintain the aiming orientation directed toward the target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventors: Jacob Ryan Sullivan, John Holbrook Vance, II
  • Patent number: 7815115
    Abstract: A method of determining a firing guidance solution when relative movement exists between a projectile-firing weapon and a target object that is to be hit, including the steps of adjusting the weapon in azimuth angle and elevation angle, by means of a movement differential equation solution method determining a projectile point of impact and flight times at prescribed azimuth and elevation angle values in view of the ammunition used and external influences, varying the azimuth and elevation angles, as input parameters of the movement differential equation solution method, until a firing guidance solution is found, taking into consideration the weapon and target object speeds, providing a function J (?, ?) that assumes a particular value J* when the azimuth and elevation angles represent a firing guidance solution, and selectively iteratively varying the azimuth and elevation angles using mathematical processes such that the particular value J* is found.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Krauss-Maffei Wegmann GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Hendrik Rothe, Sven Schröder
  • Patent number: 7597041
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a weapon having an eccentrically-pivoted barrel (1) that is mounted on a movable base (2), and to a method of elevating and stabilizing such a barrel. A drive mechanism (3) acts between the barrel and the base to permit and enable the elevation of the barrel relative to the base to be selectively changed. A compensation device acts between the barrel and base to compensate for the unbalance of the barrel. The compensation device includes a gyroscope (13) mounted on the barrel and arranged to provide an output signal, a set point generator (12), a closed-loop control device (10) and an actuating element (16). The actual position of the barrel is sensed by the gyroscope, which supplies its output signal to the set point generator. The set point generator produces a set force value as a function of the gyroscope output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Moog GmbH
    Inventors: Stefan Gerstadt, Roland Kirchberger, Bernhard Stehlin
  • Patent number: 7511847
    Abstract: A printer for printing a second interface onto a second surface, in response to sensed coded data received from a sensing device in the form of a stylus. The indicating data is sensed by the stylus from first coded data included in a first interface disposed on a first surface. The printer includes an input module and a printing module. The input module is configured to receive the sensed data from the stylus. The input module generates indicating data based on the sensed data. The indicating data is sent to a computer system. The printing module includes a printing mechanism configured to receive the response data derived from the sensed coded data from the computer system. The second interface is based at least partially on the response data. The printing module then prints the second interface onto the second surface using the printing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Kia Silverbrook, Paul Lapstun
  • Patent number: 6612490
    Abstract: An Extended SmartCard file system is proposed which resides in one flat file within the ISO file system of a SmartCard. A second file containing user information like size of the file system, owner information, and key fields is used to configure the file system driver dynamically. However, this file may be omitted if the file system driver is statically initialized. The nested file system of the present invention has the advantage that files can be fully dynamically accessed and edited without affecting the underlying ISO file layout, i.e. the outer fixed structure of the outer file system. Further, data integrity and consistency are achieved by a transaction oriented commit concept. Additionally, all security mechanisms of the underlying SmartCards in terms of data protection are fully maintained and are enhanced in cases of power loss or unexpected card removal as two distinct directories are provided for data management.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: International Business Mahines Corporation
    Inventors: Dirk Herrendoerfer, Robert Sulzmann, Martin Welsch