Body Supported Or With Handle Patents (Class 359/409)
  • Patent number: 11061257
    Abstract: A device can include glasses including one or more lenses that permit a wearer a broad view of the environment from a first perspective and contact members having one or more contact-surfaces formed to secure the glasses to a head of the wearer while the wearer is wearing the device. The device can include one or more loupes, each loupe including a redirection member structured to redirect image light that is received by the loupe; one or more magnifying members structured to magnify the image light; a viewport structured to allow passage of the magnified image light. The loupe is secured through one of the lenses such that the magnified image light is presented though the viewport to an eye of the wearer while the wearer is wearing the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Inventor: Alia Hakim
  • Patent number: 10960302
    Abstract: A head mounted VR viewing device for a VR self-service game machine is described. A supporting frame has a VR display mounted by a two-part buckle to a forward end thereof, the buckle including a spring bolt configured for moveably retaining the VR display in an upward or downward position. Multiple curved and cushioned supporting surfaces mounted to the supporting frame position the viewing device on the head of a user. A data cable, also mounted to the supporting frame, provides high-definition video transmission and power to the from the game machine to the VR display, and also functions to suspend the VR viewing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: VR LEO USA, INC
    Inventor: Xiuchao Chen
  • Patent number: 10790109
    Abstract: An image intensifier sensor for acquiring, amplifying and displaying images and including a vacuum envelope, the image intensifier sensor including a photocathode arranged for releasing photoelectrons into the vacuum envelope upon electromagnetic radiation acquired from the images which impinges the photocathode, an anode, spaced apart from and in facing relationship with the photocathode, arranged for receiving the photoelectrons and converting the photoelectrons for displaying the images on the basis thereof, and a power supply unit for providing power to the image intensifier sensor, wherein the image intensifier sensor further includes potting material, wherein the potting material comprises a foam compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignee: PHOTONIS NETHERLANDS B.V.
    Inventor: Bjorn Pluis
  • Patent number: 9395603
    Abstract: A mouth adapter configured to secure a portable camera comprising a first bite wing, a second bite wing, an air channel located between the first bite wing and the second bite wing, an adapter arm connecting the first bite wing and the second bite wing, and a camera mount coupled to the adapter. The bite wings may be elongated and comprise a bite surface made from an elastic polymer which may be configured to make contact with the teeth of a user as they bite onto the bite surface. In further preferred embodiments, the mouth adapter comprises a first balance ridge and second balance ridge protruding from the adapter arm proximate to the first and second bite wings with an air groove positioned between said the balance ridges. The air groove may be located within the adapter arm and proximate to intersection of the bite wings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Inventor: Kenneth John Achenbach
  • Patent number: 9126663
    Abstract: A framework assembly for mounting accessories to the head of an underwater diver is disclosed. The assembly generally includes an equipment mounting rig connected by a post to a low-profile head-engaging base, wherein the base is adapted to fit snugly to the top part of a diver's head and under a diving hood such that the base is securely held in place by said diving hood. Waterproof equipment, including flashlights, cameras, and the like, may be mounted onto the rig.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Inventor: Russell Jones
  • Patent number: 8947777
    Abstract: An opto-mechanical deployable telescope includes a hub, at least one deployable multiple petal primary mirror mounted to the hub, a deployment assembly, and a deployment engine assembly. The deployment assembly is operable to move the at least one primary mirror between a stowed position and a deployed position. The deployment engine assembly is operable to power the deployment assembly using stored mechanical energy. The deployment assembly includes a kinematic or semi-kinematic interface between the hub and the at least one primary mirror to hold petals of the at least one primary mirror in alignment relative to each other in the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Utah State University Research Foundation
    Inventors: Trent Newswander, Blake Crowther, James Champagne, Adam Norris
  • Publication number: 20150002930
    Abstract: A helmet mount for attaching a viewing device to a helmet includes a helmet interface assembly removably attachable to the helmet. A pivot arm is attached to the helmet interface assembly and is pivotal about a horizontal, transverse axis. A carriage member is carried on the pivot arm and slidable between the distal end and the proximal end of the pivot arm. The carriage member includes a bridge member integral therewith, the bridge member including a first fastener configured to removably attach a first viewing device and a second fastener configured to attach a second viewing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventors: James W. Teetzel, Travis S. Mitchell, Nathaniel G. Wright
  • Publication number: 20140327962
    Abstract: An improved monocular/binocular bridge and helmet mounting device employing same for an optical device are provided. The mounting device herein includes a mount with a bridge attachment for providing multiple options for a monocular or binocular viewing. An adjustment mechanism for adjusting the pupillary/interpupillary positioning of attached viewing device(s) moves the devices linearly from side-to-side. Multiple options are provided for moving attached devices to any of multiple stowed positions out of the user's line of sight when the optical device is not in use. The bridge attachment and multiple stow positions also allow the unit to be adapted for a variety of viewing devices. A mounting bracket on the viewing device allows the viewing device to be selectively attached to a helmet mount or firearm accessory mounting rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventors: James W. Teetzel, Travis S. Mitchell, Nathaniel G. Wright
  • Patent number: 8867128
    Abstract: A binocular system includes a first monocular, a second monocular, a first arm coupled to a base plate via a first hinge and coupled to the first monocular, and a second arm coupled to the base plate via a second hinge and coupled to the second monocular. Each of the monoculars rotates about a corresponding one of the hinges along an axis of rotation that is not parallel to an axis of collimation of each of the monoculars. The monoculars are collimated when rotated into a deployed position. The binocular system may also include a mounting bracket coupled to the base plate, a tilt base, interposed between the mounting bracket and the base plate and a tilt lever, having a cam that is operatively engaged with the tilt base, where actuation of the lever causes the base plate to tilt with respect to the mounting bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: N-Vision Optics, LLC
    Inventors: Maxim Rivkin, Gintautas Narkevicius
  • Patent number: 8830575
    Abstract: A binocular system includes a first monocular, a second monocular, a mounting bracket, a base plate, coupled to the mounting bracket, a first arm coupled to the base plate via a first hinge and coupled to the first monocular via a first guide rail, and a second arm coupled to the base plate via a second hinge and coupled to the second monocular via a second guide rail. The monoculars are independently moveable using the guide rails and the hinges. Collimation of the monoculars is maintained independently of movement of the monoculars side to side and fore and aft on the guiderails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: N-Vision Optics, LLC
    Inventors: Maxim Rivkin, Gintautas Narkevicius
  • Patent number: 8677516
    Abstract: A headgear bracket for mounting night vision goggles includes a base having a fastener recess and a fastener opening within the fastener recess, the fastener opening having a beveled perimeter. A fastener is insertable into the fastener opening, the fastener including a head, a tapered neck extending from the head, and a body extending from the neck. When the fastener is inserted into the opening, the tapered neck abuts the beveled perimeter of the fastener opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Norots, Inc.
    Inventor: Jonathon R. Prendergast
  • Publication number: 20130083391
    Abstract: An improved monocular/binocular bridge and helmet mounting device employing same for an optical device are provided. The mounting device herein includes a mount with a bridge attachment for providing multiple options for a monocular or binocular optical device and multiple options for moving the attached optical device to any of multiple stowed positions out of the user's line of sight when the optical device is not in use. The bridge attachment and multiple stow positions also allow the unit to be adapted for a variety of viewing devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: Wilcox Industries Corp.
    Inventor: Wilcox Industries Corp.
  • Patent number: 8264771
    Abstract: A tripod-connecting adapter for connecting a pair of binoculars to a tripod comprising: a base portion that has a width in which a left and a right lens barrels of the pair of binoculars to be placed thereon come into contact therewith, and restricts rotation of the pair of binoculars around a joint shaft that connects the pair of lens barrels of the pair of binoculars; and a holding device that is provided on the base portion and is connected to the joint shaft to support the pair of lens barrels so that said pair of lens barrels may be placed on an upper surface of the base portion to come in contact therewith, and restricts movement of the pair of binoculars in an optical axis direction of the pair of binoculars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Nikon Vision Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mitsuo Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 8209780
    Abstract: A mounting device for mounting an associated optical device on an associated helmet includes a first pivot arm assembly removably attachable to the associated helmet. A second pivot arm assembly is pivotally attached to the first pivot arm assembly and is rotatable about a first horizontal axis. A optical device mounting arm assembly is rotatably attached to the second pivot arm assembly. The optical device mounting arm assembly rotatable about a first vertical axis relative to the second pivot arm assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Wilcox Industries Corp.
    Inventor: Gary M. Lemire
  • Publication number: 20120069433
    Abstract: An optical system includes an optical bench defining a mounting surface, an objective lens mounted to the optical bench, and an image intensifier tube. The image intensifier tube includes: (i) a housing defining an interior region and a mounting surface, and (ii) a photocathode bonded to a glass faceplate defining a faceplate surface, wherein the photocathode is positioned within the interior region of the housing, and wherein the mounting surface of the housing resides on the same plane as the faceplate surface. The mounting surface of the optical bench is mounted onto the mounting surface of the image intensifier tube housing such that the mounting surface of the optical bench resides on the same plane as the faceplate surface and the faceplate surface of the faceplate is the surface of the faceplate that is positioned closest to the objective lens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: ITT MANUFACTURING ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: SCOTT J. ADAMS, WILLIAM ERIC GARRIS, KEVIN SCHLIRF, TODD NEFF
  • Patent number: 8087100
    Abstract: A helmet mount for night vision apparatus wherein night vision goggles can be coupled and uncoupled to its power pack without the use of tools and wherein the power pack can be coupled and uncoupled to a helmet without the use of tools. When an aviator wearing a helmet with night vision apparatus so mounted, is ejected from his aircraft both the goggles and the power pack are released from the helmet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond Aguero, Todd Neff, William Eric Garris, Roy Holmes
  • Patent number: 7885001
    Abstract: An optical device may include at least one optical element and a coupling section adapted to control relative movement between the at least one optical element and the coupling section. The coupling section may include an engaging element and a detent mechanism adapted to adjustably lock the at least one optical element in a plurality of rotational positions. The rotational positions may include rotational positions around a first axis that is substantially perpendicular to a second axis of the at least one optical element, the second axis being a substantially longitudinal axis of the at least one optical element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Charles Greer, Travis Davis
  • Patent number: 7649701
    Abstract: A magnetically activated switch assembly is provided. The magnetically activated switch assembly includes a magnet and a magnetic circuit. The magnetic circuit includes a magnetically activated switch, a first set of flux conductors, and a second set of flux conductors. The first set of flux conductors has first flux conductor flanges adapted to conduct flux from ends of the magnet. The second set of flux conductors is slidingly positioned relative to the first set of flux conductors and is adapted to conduct flux from the first set of flux conductors to the magnetically activated switch. The first set of flux conductors are adapted to rotate clockwise or counter-clockwise and to tilt up or down. The first magnetic circuit is adapted to conduct flux to activate the magnetically activated switch only when the first flux conductor flanges are rotationally aligned with ends of the magnet and tilted to an operational position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Norotos, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathon R. Prendergast, Charles R. Patton, III
  • Publication number: 20090200447
    Abstract: An optical device may include at least one optical element and a coupling section adapted to control relative movement between the at least one optical element and the coupling section. The coupling section may include an engaging element and a detent mechanism adapted to adjustably lock the at least one optical element in a plurality of rotational positions. The rotational positions may include rotational positions around a first axis that is substantially perpendicular to a second axis of the at least one optical element, the second axis being a substantially longitudinal axis of the at least one optical element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventors: Charles Greer, Travis J. Davis
  • Publication number: 20090135479
    Abstract: A mount for night vision goggles including a bracket configured to attach the mount to headgear and a chassis base extending from the bracket. A first socket assembly is attached to the chassis base, the first socket assembly adapted to receive a first type of night vision goggle attachment. A second socket assembly configured to mate with a second type of night vision goggle attachment is provided, the second socket assembly attachable to the first socket assembly to substantially prevent relative movement between the first socket assembly and the second socket assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventors: Ronald R. Soto, Jonathon R. Prendergast
  • Patent number: 7467868
    Abstract: A head magnifier is provided, comprising magnifying optics as well as a coupling mechanism for attaching the magnifying optics to a head mount which can be placed on a user's head. The coupling mechanism has a swivel mechanism enabling swiveling of the magnifying optics relative to the head mount about a swivel axis, and an adjusting mechanism enabling adjustment of the distance between the magnifying optics and either the swivel axis or the head mount by moving the magnifying optics along a longitudinal axis. The swivel mechanism provides a swivel angle range for the magnifying optics and enables setting and fixing of different swivel angles of the magnifying optics, said angles falling within the swivel angle range. The swivel axis extends in front of the user's head in the mounted condition of the head magnifier, and the adjusting mechanism telescopes with the magnifying optics mounted to the mechanism's front end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss Surgical GmbH
    Inventors: Bastian Beate, Guido Hattendorf, Roland Hertle, Reinhold Pfeifer
  • Publication number: 20080273241
    Abstract: An apparatus to enable an automobile driver to see above oversized vehicles and other obstacles with a periscope that attaches to the roof and windshield (or side window) of a motor vehicle, a sleeve mechanism that permits extension and rotation of the device, placement at the top of the windshield (or side window) that permits easy viewing, a powerful magnet and roof latch that secures the scope to the vehicle, and an optional zoom function that permits enlargement of a sighted object.: A preferred embodiment includes sturdy, weather-proof construction, availability in many colors, pre-assembly, and easy attachment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventor: Evan Robert Kaiser
  • Patent number: 7339730
    Abstract: There is provided a head-up display (HUD) tray harmonization assembly, including a mount alignment jig (MAJ) having a first end and a second end, the first end being connectable to an adjustable tray affixed in an aircraft front cabin at spaced-apart relationship to a front window having a lower edge located adjacent the front end of the aircraft, a telescope connected to the MAJ at, or adjacent, its second end oriented for viewing through the window, a collimator holder having a first portion connectable to the outside wall of the front edge of the aircraft and a second portion extending towards and terminating at least at the lower edge of the window, and a collimator coupled to the second portion of the holder to form a line of sight with said telescope. A method for HUD tray harmonization is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Elop Electro-Optics Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Michael Brodsky, Jacob Yosha
  • Publication number: 20070285772
    Abstract: In an ocular support assembly material present in the forward-looking cross-section of the outwardly extending support arms is removed, thereby reducing visual obscuration and enhancing peripheral vision. In the preferred embodiment, the top of each outwardly extending support arm is at or below the middle of the height of the housing, thereby resulting in a low-profile design. At the same time, the support arms are received by the housing with sliding engagement on all sides, thereby eliminating the need for ball bearings or spacers to counteract twisting. The result is a lightweight yet highly stable ocular mounting assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventors: Thomas Cummings, Byung Jin Chang
  • Patent number: 7253952
    Abstract: Handsfree fieldglasses providing increased clarity and magnification of a visual target in an outdoor application are disclosed. The handsfree fieldglasses can include eyeglasses, binoculars, and a customized connector coupling the eyeglasses and binoculars. The eyeglasses may include prescription lenses and/or polarized lenses. The lenses can have antireflective coatings, hydro-phobic coatings and/or a reduced or substantially flat base curve. The binoculars include adjustable separate lens arrangements having lengthy or infinite focal lengths to be placed against each eyeglass lens. The connector includes multiple fixed attachments and adjustable components such that the binoculars can be custom adjusted to rest against the eyeglasses and also to flip away from the eyeglasses while remaining coupled thereto. While resting against the eyeglasses, a user simultaneously perceives a full field of view having a magnified central portion and non-magnified outer portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Sparrow Woods Company
    Inventors: Karen L. Hluchan, John B. Glaberson
  • Patent number: 7219370
    Abstract: Pivoting helmet mounts for an optical device are provided. In one aspect, a breakaway connector which is selectively configurable between breakaway and nonbreakaway configurations is provided. In a further aspect, a strap mount system for securing the helmet mount to the helmet employs a rotating ratchet assembly to adjust tension in the strap. In another aspect, a helmet mount for an optical device comprises a track assembly attached to a helmet to allow stowing of the optical device in a further retracted position. The track mount system may further include electrical connectors for attaching a power supply and an electronic device. In another aspect, a mounting bracket allows helmet-mounted optics to be shared with a weapon accessory mount. In a further aspect, a optical sighting device for a weapon combines a reflex sight a night vision goggle to allow targeting at night or in other low-light conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Wilcox Industries Corp.
    Inventors: James W. Teetzel, Gary M. Lemire, David G. Kent, Marion H. Van Fosson
  • Patent number: 7207531
    Abstract: A support for a medical instrument such as a binocular microscope including a plurality of piviotally connected arms connected to a wall, ceiling or vertical support mount. One of said arms being vertical and having ball joints at opposite ends, one connected to an adjacent arm and the other connected to the binocular microscope. An extension connected at one end to the binocular microscope and at an opposite end to a head harness for attaching to the head of an operator. Two of the arms are connected by a bearing having a vertical extension. One of the arms is pivotally connected to the vertical extension. A compressed gas cylinder is connected at one end to the vertical extension and at another end to the arm connected to the vertical extension. The arrangement is so that the operator can position the binocular microscope without use of any hands and with negligible resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Paul K. Piontkowski
  • Patent number: 7168821
    Abstract: Provided is a device mountable on a head covering. The device comprises a flexible clamp comprising an elongated gap open to its rear, a lower receptacle, two recessed slides at both outer sides of the receptacle, and a toothed-section on a top of the receptacle; a sliding seat of U-section comprising two tabs at both inner sides for retaining a lower portion of the clamp in place after removably sliding the slides therethrough, a latch projected from its bottom to urge against the toothed-section, and a flexible hook having a toothed inner surface; and a lens hingedly coupled to the inner surface of the hook in a gear manner, and a universal joint type light mounted on top of the clamp. The invention enables a desired object to be seen larger and more clear through the pivotal lens (e.g., a magnifying lens) and with light emitted from the light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Gem Optical Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tsung Hui Huang
  • Patent number: 7107624
    Abstract: A headmount apparatus for mounting vision enhancement equipment thereon which is comprised of a mounting shell having at least one pad and having at least one mounting surface to which the vision enhancing equipment is mounted, where at least one pad is configured to contact the user's head. The headmount apparatus is also comprised of at least one elastic strap which is attached to the mounting shell for securing the mounting shell to the user's head. The headmount apparatus for mounting vision enhancement equipment thereon could alternatively be comprised of at least one mounting frame for attaching vision enhancement equipment, at least one hardware mounting surface for accepting the mounting frame, and a hood configured to fit over a user's head where the hood is made at least in part from an elastic material and which contains the hardware mounting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Blair R. Dobbie, Charles D. Willey, Steven A. Brillhart
  • Patent number: 7097300
    Abstract: A binocular assembly that includes a hands free support mechanism for supporting a lens element like a pair of binoculars in front of the user's eyes without using any use of the user's hands. The hands-free support mechanism can include an adjustable head securing strap, at least one positioning arm, a user tuneable radio, and at least one earphone. The binocular element can extend from a positioning arm or arms at an angle of from around zero to ninety-five degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: Tristram Himmele
  • Patent number: 6983870
    Abstract: A suspended article hold down system for suspending articles such as binoculars, cameras, and eyeglasses that are commonly attached to neck straps, by shoulder straps and then providing a hold down strap to extend across such an article suspended by the shoulder straps, the hold down strap being releasably connected to ends of underarm straps having opposite ends connected to the shoulder straps through a flat spreader at the back of a user of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Stearns Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis Hancock, Jeffrey D. Hancock
  • Patent number: 6972903
    Abstract: A vision assisting apparatus includes a casing for forming an inversely U-shaped optical path, a light entry, provided at one end of the optical path, through which light enters, a light exit, provided at another end of the optical path, through which light exits in an opposite direction to the light entry, an optical system for processing an image entered via the light entry by using the optical pass and outputting a processed image via the light exit, and attaching structure for attaching the casing to a wearer so that the light exit is positioned close to an eye of the wearer. By forming the inversely U-shaped optical path with the casing, it is possible to provide a sufficiently long optical path in a compact form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignees: Nittoh Kogaku K.K.
    Inventors: Hideo Hara, Kazunaga Shimizu, Fumiaki Koizumi, Yasuhiro Sakai
  • Patent number: 6957449
    Abstract: A helmet mount for a night vision device is provided having means to attached to headgear, such as a helmet, wherein the mount is rotatable between a use position and a stowed position about an axis that is substantially parallel to the attachment means. In one embodiment, a position adjustment assembly comprises a rotary plate, a helmet block rotationally coupled to the rotary plate and a spring-biased ball and socket system located between the helmet bock and rotary plate. In another embodiment, a tilt adjustment assembly may include a gear system wherein rotation of a lever produces rotation of a night vision device relative to a user's eyes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Norotos, Inc.
    Inventor: Jonathon R. Prendergast
  • Patent number: 6940642
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for stabilizing an optical tube on a base wherein a tension adjuster adapted to adjust the tension between the optical tube and sideboard of the base is secured between a the optical tube and the sideboard. By turning the tension adjuster, tension can be added or reduced to stabilize the optical tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Dar Tson Shen
  • Patent number: 6927906
    Abstract: A binocular telescope with a photographing function includes a pair of telescopic optical systems, a casing for receiving the telescopic optical systems, and the casing has outer-side end portions. A camera system includes a photographing optical system, and a solid-state image sensor arranged behind and aligned with the photographing optical system, and an electronic control system electronically controls an operation of the camera system. The electronic control system is supplied with electric power from the batteries through an electric power source circuit board. The batteries and the electric power source circuit board are provided at the outer-side end portions of the casing, such that the weight is balanced between the outer-side end portions of the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: PENTAX Corporation
    Inventors: Ken Hirunuma, Atsumi Kaneko, Gouji Funatsu, Kiyoshi Kawano
  • Patent number: 6912727
    Abstract: A head harness for supporting a night vision device is provided. The head harness includes a frame assembly and padding coupled to the frame assembly. The padding is configured to contact at least one of a forehead and a cheek of the face of a user of the head harness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Harrison L. Buchanan, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6882471
    Abstract: A viewer device (G) has at least one monocular assembly (10) having a focus ring (12) that is accessible externally for adjusting optical focus of the viewer (G). A clamping assembly (18) for the viewer includes a band (20) that is controllably secured about a portion of an exterior surface (22) of the monocular (10). At least one pin body (24) extends from the band (20). The pin (24) is secured to the band (20) at a base end (26). An opposite pin end (28) extends toward and overlaps at least a portion of the focus ring (12). The focus ring (12) has at least one cooperating member (30) that is formed with an exterior surface (30) of the focus ring (12). When the band (20) is secured, the pin (24) engages the cooperating member (30) of the focus ring (12) to secure the focus ring (12) from undesired movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Litton Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Luis A. Silva
  • Publication number: 20040212878
    Abstract: A compact spotting scope includes a housing with an outer surface having a grasping region sized and shaped to fit in the palm of a user's hand so that the spotting scope can be held at eye level with one hand in an ergonomic arm and wrist position for steady support. An optical element positioned within the housing is adjusted by manually rotating a side-mounted adjustment knob that extends laterally from the outer surface of the housing opposite the grasping region. The side-mounted position of the adjustment knob allows the arm and wrist of the focusing hand to be maintained in an ergonomic position during manipulation of the adjustment knob, thereby further facilitating steady support. An internal support member of the spotting scope includes a frame portion and a generally tubular portion, which are preferably formed together of unitary one-piece construction for aligning optical elements of the spotting scope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Applicant: Leupold & Stevens, Inc.
    Inventors: Rick R. Regan, Rodney H. Otteman, Erik R. Halverson
  • Patent number: 6785046
    Abstract: A viewing device (10) adapted to be held at eye level by an apparatus (14) comprises a housing (16) designed to fit within a tray (12) of the apparatus (14), two eyepieces (22) mounted to a proximal end (24) of the housing, a magnification mechanism (26), and a focus mechanism (28). The device (10) also includes an objective lens (18) and a video screen (19) mounted to a distal end (20) of the housing (16). The housing (16) preferably includes a substantially flat bottom (30) and two substantially flat sides (32) and is preferably secured to the tray (12) by a threaded fastener (36). The eyepieces (22) are preferably flexible and padded to provide a comfortable fit. The eyepieces (22) may be either contoured or substantially flat. The contoured eyepieces (22) fit against a user's face. The substantially flat eyepieces (22) fit against the user's eyeglasses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Inventor: Darrel D. Newkirk
  • Patent number: 6775060
    Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus and methods for increasing visual acuity through the use of a bioptic telescope which is at least partially embedded in a spectacle lens. In one embodiment, the telescope includes a vision lens having a vision axis and a first surface for placement substantially in front of an eye of a user. The telescope further includes a plurality of optical elements defining an optical path for viewing an object in front of the first surface. At least one of the plurality of optical elements is positioned such that at least a portion of the optical path is located within the vision lens in a plane substantially orthogonal to the vision axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: The Schepens Eye Research Institute, Inc.
    Inventors: Eliezer Peli, Fernando Vargas-Martin
  • Patent number: 6768583
    Abstract: Binoculars doubling as a toy, in particular, various spherical shapes such as a soccer ball or baseball. These binoculars have lens barrels ejected from hemispherical bodies to increase the field of vision up over a long distance. The binoculars doubling as a toy may be constructed with hemispherical bodies 1 and 21 defining a complete global shape when coupled with each other, connected to each other by a hinge 15; eye lens barrels 6 and 26 each having eye lenses 5 and 25 and mounted to centers of arc sections 2 and 22 of the bodies 1 and 21; circular plates 7 and 27 mounted into grooves 3 and 23 formed in the arc sections 2 and 22; objective lens barrels 10 and 30 each having objective lenses 9 and 29 and inserted into through holes of the circular plates 7 and 27; and springs 13 and 33 each mounted between the eye lens barrels 6 and 26 and the objective lens barrels 10 and 30.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventor: Ouk-Kyon Shin
  • Patent number: 6768584
    Abstract: A viewing device (10) adapted to be held at eye level by an apparatus (14) comprises a housing (16) designed to fit within a tray (12) of the apparatus (14), two eyepieces (22) mounted to a proximal end (24) of the housing, a magnification mechanism (26), and a focus mechanism (28). The device (10) also includes either two objective lenses (18) or a video screen (118) mounted to a distal end (20) of the housing (16). The housing (16) preferably includes a substantially flat bottom (30) and two substantially flat sides (32) and is preferably secured to the tray (12) by a threaded fastener (36). The eyepieces (22) are preferably flexible and padded to provide a comfortable fit. The eyepieces (22) may be either contoured or substantially flat. The contoured eyepieces (22) fit against a user's face. The substantially flat eyepieces (22) fit against the user's eyeglasses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventor: Darrel Newkirk
  • Publication number: 20040136062
    Abstract: A portable periscope (31) comprises a periscope head (58, 60), a periscope barrel (34) and a periscope elbow (64, 66). The periscope barrel is made up of a plurality of segments (36, 38, 40) that can be disassembled for transport and assembled for use. The segments are either separated from each other or are joined by hinges, making a foldable articulated periscope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Avner Farkash
  • Patent number: 6728030
    Abstract: Electronic binoculars comprise a body containing an electronic camera having an electromechanical zoom, a single display, a power source, and electronics for modifying the output of the camera, including a variable electronic zoom. A lens is positioned between the user's eyes and the display to further magnify the image. External controls toggle power and select modifications to the image to be performed by the electronics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventor: David Bellefuil
  • Publication number: 20040021938
    Abstract: A modular binocular-like vision assembly (300) has individual interconnecting inner (320, 330) and outer (310, 340) optical modules. Each module is separately sealed and self-contained and includes image intensifier means for converting incoming light to an intensified visible image for presentation to the eyes of the observer in low light conditions. Electrical connectors are provided between the modules for permitting free flow of electrical power and information between the modules. Attaching system is provided for removably attaching the outer modules to the inner modules to deliver a panoramic field of vision and removal of any single module from the assembly will not break any pressure seals or degrade the optical performance of the removed module or the remaining modules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: Danny Filipovich, Jack Fiore, Robert O Ziv, Philip Uy
  • Patent number: 6667832
    Abstract: A magnification viewer includes magnification loupes, which may be attached to the bridge of a pair of spectacles by a hinge/bridge mount. A main hinge tab is pivotally connected to mount, whereby the magnification loupes may be raised and lowered from the field of vision in front of the spectacles as desired. A hinge tab saddle slidably mounted to the main hinge tab permits adjustment of the loupes along the longitudinal length of the main hinge tab to thereby adjust the distance between the lenses of the spectacles and the loupes. Loupes are suspended by pylons from a pair of loupe mount bars and are pivotally adjustable about axes through the pylons to vary the convergence angle of the pair of loupes. Mount bars are adjustable via a thumbscrew attached to the hinge tab saddle, whereby the lateral spacing of the loupes may be varied to thereby accommodate a range of interpupillary distances. Magnification viewer may further include a light mount adapter provided on hinge tab saddle for attaching a light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Kerr Corporation
    Inventors: Charles H. Caplan, Charles E. Bain
  • Publication number: 20030231393
    Abstract: An image stabilization apparatus comprises a housing accommodating an optical system in the interior thereof. A part of optical members that compose the optical system is held to allow angular displacement relative to the housing, and the position of the part of the optical members is maintained in a predetermined state. The part of the optical members is driven to restore the position angularly displaced. A driving amount is controlled based on information of the angular displacement. A mode for controlling the housing that is suitable for vibration applied to the housing is determined, and the mode is informed to a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Applicants: Nikon Vision Co., Ltd., Nikon Corporation
    Inventors: Mitsuo Yamamoto, Youichi Yokoi, Shunichi Haga
  • Publication number: 20030231386
    Abstract: A viewing device (10) adapted to be held at eye level by an apparatus (14) comprises a housing (16) designed to fit within a tray (12) of the apparatus (14), two eyepieces (22) mounted to a proximal end (24) of the housing, a magnification mechanism (26), and a focus mechanism (28). The device (10) also includes an objective lens (18) and a video screen (19) mounted to a distal end (20) of the housing (16). The housing (16) preferably includes a substantially flat bottom (30) and two substantially flat sides (32) and is preferably secured to the tray (12) by a threaded fastener (36). The eyepieces (22) are preferably flexible and padded to provide a comfortable fit. The eyepieces (22) may be either contoured or substantially flat. The contoured eyepieces (22) fit against a user's face. The substantially flat eyepieces (22) fit against the user's eyeglasses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventor: Darrel D. Newkirk
  • Publication number: 20030231387
    Abstract: A viewing device (10) adapted to be held at eye level by an apparatus (14) comprises a housing (16) designed to fit within a tray (12) of the apparatus (14), two eyepieces (22) mounted to a proximal end (24) of the housing, a magnification mechanism (26), and a focus mechanism (28). The device (10) also includes either two objective lenses (18) or a video screen (118) mounted to a distal end (20) of the housing (16). The housing (16) preferably includes a substantially flat bottom (30) and two substantially flat sides (32) and is preferably secured to the tray (12) by a threaded fastener (36). The eyepieces (22) are preferably flexible and padded to provide a comfortable fit. The eyepieces (22) may be either contoured or substantially flat. The contoured eyepieces (22) fit against a user's face. The substantially flat eyepieces (22) fit against the user's eyeglasses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventor: Darrel Newkirk
  • Patent number: 6662370
    Abstract: A helmet plate for interfacing between a helmet having a frontally located obstruction and a mount adjustment assembly for a night vision device. The helmet plate is comprised of a support portion having a band and a cavity for overlying the obstruction and an integral power pack housing. The integral power pack housing is disposed in relation to the support portion at such height, depth and angular position to render a night vision device attached to a mount adjustment assembly which is secured to the integral power pack housing in correct viewing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Harrison Lewis Buchanan, Jr.