Binocular Patents (Class 359/407)
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Patent number: 6108128Abstract: A binocular includes two parallel telescope systems. First and second lens units belong to one of the telescope systems, so that the optical axis of the first lens unit is in line with the optical axis of the second lens unit. The first and second lens units are supported by first and second movable frames, respectively, which are supported by a common guide shaft extending in the direction of the optical axes.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1997Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Gouji Funatsu
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Patent number: 6108134Abstract: Disclosed is a viewing optical instrument which includes: a first image stabilizer for stabilizing the vision in the viewing optical instrument in a first direction; a second image stabilizer for stabilizing the vision in the viewing optical instrument in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; a first switch for manually turning the first image stabilizer ON or OFF; and a second switch, provided independently from the first switch, for manually turning the second image stabilizer ON or OFF.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 1998Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Ken Hirunuma, Shinji Tsukamoto
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Patent number: 6092929Abstract: An optical device storage system for storing and transporting with the optical device miscellaneous items including lens covers, lens caps, lens tissues, and keys. The storage system includes a substantially rectangular pouch structure which is sized for placement between the monocular barrels of a binoculars device. The pouch structure includes an opening for providing access to an interior compartment. An attaching element is provided on each side portion of the pouch structure for attaching the storage system to each monocular barrel of the optical device. The opening is provided with a zipper-type closure device for maintaining the miscellaneous items within the interior compartment.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1998Date of Patent: July 25, 2000Inventor: David E. Moerman
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Patent number: 6094303Abstract: Binoculars include a pair of lens barrels, each barrel having an optical system, a flexible lens barrier which travels between a protective position for protecting the optical system of each of the lens barrels and a position that is retracted from the field of view of the optical system, and a drive member for moving the flexible lens barrier between the protective position and the retracted position.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 1999Date of Patent: July 25, 2000Assignee: Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Wataru Koide, Fumio Tomikawa, Tatsuya Suzuki, Yuichi Torikoshi
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Patent number: 6075644Abstract: A binocular-like vision system for enabling an observer to view an object. The system includes an input end that receives light from the object and an optical transfer system that receives the light received from the input end and transfers the received light to an image intensifier which intensifies the received light, wherein the intensified received light is transferred to and transmitted out of an output end of the system, wherein the light transmitted out of the output end forms a field of view of the object that is greater than a 60 degree horizontal field of view.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1996Date of Patent: June 13, 2000Assignee: Night Vision General PartnershipInventor: Danny Filipovich
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Patent number: 6072630Abstract: An optical system for a binocular is provided with an objective optical system, an erecting system and an eyepiece. The objective optical system includes a first lens having positive refractive power, a second lens having negative refractive power and a third aspherical lens having positive refractive power. The third lens is capable of moving in a direction orthogonal to an optical axis of the objective optical system. The objective optical system satisfies the following conditions:(1) D.sub.12 /f.sub.0 <0.16,where,D.sub.12 is a distance from the object side of the first lens and the image side of the second lens of the objective optical system, andf.sub.0 is the focal length of the objective optical system.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1998Date of Patent: June 6, 2000Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Takaaki Yano
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Patent number: 6067194Abstract: An image stabilizing instrument, for example for a binocular, in which synchronous image stability is achieved by fastening two objectives (2, 2') and two attached first reflecting optical elements (3, 3') to a stabilized frame (22), uni-axially pivoted in a cardanic part (11). Second optical elements (4, 4') in each of two parts of the binocular are fastened to the cardanic part (11), which in turn is uni-axially pivoted in the binocular housing (9). The front window fastened to the housing is designed as a color-correcting lens (106) to correct for color aberration.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1997Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Assignee: Leica Camera AGInventor: Rolf Stroemberg
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Patent number: 6067190Abstract: A portable, electronic imaging system (100) includes a compact housing (102) extending across and beyond the eyes of the user, a wide field of view binocular viewfinder imaging subsystem (104) operating on an image produced by an electronic display subsystem (104) located within the housing, speakers (106) integrally mounted with the housing, an internal, interactive electronic control subsystem (108) to control the functions of the system, and an external input/output interface (110) to facilitate connection with a plurality of optional external devices and/or modules. The housing may further provide for modular mounting and removal of a plurality of optional system modules such as the electronic camera (120), a video tape record and playback device and battery (122), the electronic display (118), a night vision camera, a television tuner, a video game electronic system, a head orientation and position tracking device, or a means for mounting the system on the user's head.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1999Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Inventor: Shawn L. Kelly
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Patent number: 6067192Abstract: A portable viewing apparatus having a plurality of associated pairs of left and right optical modules, each pair of which can be selectively used to provide a user with a different viewing effect when viewing objects such as video monitors. Exemplary viewing effects include uniform two-dimensional magnification over a variety of ranges and disanamorphic magnification for wide-screen and three-dimensional viewing of special programming material. The selected pair of optical modules are removably attachable to mounting shoes, and separate control assemblies are configured to allow the user to manually adjust the interocular spacing and convergence/divergence of the selected optical modules.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 1997Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Inventors: Louis Lichtenfield, Donald E. Trumbull
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Patent number: 6067195Abstract: A binocular is provided with a pair of telescopic optical systems. Each of the pair of telescopic optical systems has an objective lens system, an erecting optical system, and an observing optical system. The erecting optical system of each of the telescopic optical systems may be a type I or type II Porro prism, which is divided into two sub prisms respectively have two reflection surfaces. First and second hand vibration compensation mechanism is provided: (a) between the objective lenses and erecting optical systems; and (b) between the first sub prisms and the second sub prisms.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1998Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Ken Hirunuma, Shinji Tsukamoto, Moriyasu Kanai, Tetsuo Sekiguchi
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Patent number: 6065835Abstract: An optical system is capable of enhancing vision of low vision individuals using a simple adjustment mechanism that requires a minimum length of travel to effect a desired adjustment. First and second substantially perpendicular mirrors are mounted in a cluster for substantially linear movement. A third mirror is substantially parallel to the first mirror and pivotal about an axis substantially transverse to the direction of linear movement of the cluster. Pivotal movement of the third mirror may be automatic in response to linear movement of the mirror cluster so as to ensure substantially proper convergence when the object to be viewed is about one meter (or closer) from the objective lens or lenses in a binocular system. A fourth mirror is substantially parallel to the second mirror and substantially perpendicular to the third mirror. An objective lens cooperates with the first and third mirrors, and an eyepiece lens with the second and fourth mirrors.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 1999Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Assignee: Ocutech, Inc.Inventors: Jaroslaw Pekar, Robert L. Beadles, Henry A. Greene
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Patent number: 6057962Abstract: Disclosed is an observation optical system such as a binocular. A telescopic optical system of the observation optical system is provided with a plurality of optical elements, which are arranged such that the observation optical system has a first optical axis horizontally extending and a second optical axis vertically extending when the binocular is held horizontally by a user. The observation optical system is further provided with first and second compensation optical systems that are movable to shift optical paths of light passed through the first and second compensation optical systems to compensate trembling of image due to hand vibration applied to the observation optical system. The compensation optical systems are constituted and arranged such that movement thereof will not be affected by the gravity.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1998Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Ken Hirunuma, Shinji Tsukamoto, Tetsuo Sekiguchi, Moriyasu Kanai
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Patent number: 6046853Abstract: An optical system for a binocular is provided with an objective optical system, an erecting system and an eyepiece. The objective optical system includes a first lens having positive refractive power, a second lens having negative refractive power and a third aspherical lens having positive refractive power. The first and second lenses are cemented to each other. The third lens is capable of moving in a direction orthogonal to an optical axis of the objective optical system. The objective optical system satisfies the following relationship:-0.30<.phi..sub.c /.phi..sub.13 <0where, .phi..sub.c is a refractive power of the cemented surface of the first and second lenses, and .phi..sub.13 is a composite power of the first, second, and third lenses.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1998Date of Patent: April 4, 2000Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Takaaki Yano
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Patent number: 6038072Abstract: Provided is a hand-vibration compensation system for compensating trembling of images due to a hand-vibration applied to a binocular having a pair of telescopic optical systems. The hand-vibration compensation system includes first and second compensation optical systems respectively provided in the pair of telescopic optical systems. The optical axes of the pair of telescopic optical systems intersect the first and second compensation optical systems, respectively. The compensation system further includes a driving system that moves at least one optical element included in each of the first and second optical systems in opposite directions within a plane perpendicular to the optical axes of the pair of telescopic optical systems.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1998Date of Patent: March 14, 2000Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Ken Hirunuma, Shinji Tsukamoto, Moriyasu Kanai
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Patent number: 6031662Abstract: A dual purpose optical device that is convertible between binocular and stereoscope modes of operation while using a common eyepiece arrangement for both. The device includes a housing containing a pair of optic supports mounted side-by-side for lateral movement towards and away from one another. Each support preferably carries three lenses. Two lenses on each support serve as the eyepiece and are aligned in a common plane with an eyepiece opening through the housing and a rotatable mirror assembly. The assembly pivots substantially ninety degrees from opposing forty-five degree angle positions with respect to the plane through the eyepiece opening and the eye and field lenses so as to fold the lines of sight either up or down within the housing. A circular photo transparency reel is received horizontally in a slot provided on an upper side of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Fisher - Price, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey J. Miller, Peter F. Reile, Stephen D. Fantone
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Patent number: 6031663Abstract: A binocular includes two telescope systems with parallel axes, eyepiece frames having a concave surface facing a user, adjustable eye cups with a secure locking mechanism, operation controls placed between the telescope systems, a focus adjustment mechanism, a diopter correction mechanism, and a magnifying-power-varying mechanism. The magnifying-power-varying mechanism includes rotatable cam rings and guide rings connected by a single connecting belt that moves perpendicular to the optical axes to rotate the cam rings. The connecting belt is supported and held in position so that it does not bind. The position of magnifying-power-varying lenses can be adjusted. The positions of the guide rings with respect to the telescope systems can also be adjusted.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1998Date of Patent: February 29, 2000Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Gouji Funatsu
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Patent number: 6028710Abstract: An optical device that can be either permanently or temporarily affixed to a headgear, such as a cap or a visor, is disclosed. The optical device comprises right and left barrels or lens holders, each of which is non-adjustable or if adjustable is joined to a gear assembly. The barrels may be joined separately to the gear assembly in some embodiments. The gear assembly includes a knob for moving the lens for focus adjustments. By using the optical device of the present invention, the user does not have to continuously hold the optical device in close proximity to the eyes to view distant objects or require constant focusing. The optical device may be used for indoor or outdoor events.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 1998Date of Patent: February 22, 2000Inventor: Eric Alfred Jensen
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Patent number: 6025957Abstract: A image intensifier binocular, so-called goggle, of the type having only one image intensifier tube (2) is working with an effective diameter of its entrance photocathode (3) below 15 mm and therefore an objective (1) having an accordingly shortened focal length. This combination will substantially increase the depth of field of the goggle and also enable a design of smaller weight.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 1997Date of Patent: February 15, 2000Assignee: Simrad Optronics A/SInventor: Sven-.ANG.ke Afsenius
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Patent number: 6018420Abstract: A binocular is provided with a pair of telescopic optical systems. Each of the pair of telescopic optical systems has an objective lens, a pair of positive and negative compensation lenses, an erecting system, and an observing optical system. The negative compensation lens of the right telescopic optical system and the positive compensation lens of the left telescopic optical system are held by a rotatable first frame. The positive compensation lens of the right telescopic optical system and the negative compensation lens of the left telescopic optical system are held by a rotatable second frame. The first and second frames are driven in the opposite directions to each other such that the vibration of the image can be compensated.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1998Date of Patent: January 25, 2000Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Ken Hirunuma, Shinji Tsukamoto, Moriyasu Kanai
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Patent number: 6008937Abstract: A binocular includes first and second telescope systems, a focus adjustment mechanism and a diopter correction mechanism. The binocular is further provided with a shielding mechanism which selectively shields one of the telescope systems in response to a switch, and a locking mechanism which selectively locks one of the focus adjustment mechanism and the diopter correction mechanism in response to the switch.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 1998Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Takaaki Yano
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Patent number: 5999312Abstract: A binocular includes two telescope systems with parallel axes, eyepiece frames, adjustable eye cups, operation controls positioned between the telescope systems, a focus adjustment mechanism, a diopter correction mechanism, and a magnifying-power-varying mechanism. The focus adjustment mechanism and diopter correction mechanism are arranged coaxially. The magnifying-power-varying mechanism includes rotatable cam rings and guide rings connected by a single connecting belt that moves perpendicular to the optical axes to rotate the cam rings. The connecting belt is supported and held in position so that it does not bind. The position of magnifying-power-varying lenses can be adjusted. During assembly, the magnifying-power-varying lenses can be mounted in the guide rings in a number of positions by rotating the lens frames holding the lenses about the optical axis and inserting sliders in linear guide grooves.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 1998Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Gouji Funatsu
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Patent number: 5986803Abstract: A portable, electronic imaging system (100) includes a compact housing (102) extending across and beyond the eyes of the user, a wide field of view binocular viewfinder imaging subsystem (104) operating on an image produced by a pop-up electronic display subsystem (124) when positioned within the housing in a first configuration, speakers (106) integrally mounted with the housing, an internal, interactive electronic control subsystem (108) to control the functions of the system, and an external input/output interface (110) to facilitate connection with a plurality of optional external devices. The pop-up display allows positioning of the display in a second configuration so that the image produced thereon can be viewed externally from the housing (102).Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 1995Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Inventor: Shawn L. Kelly
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Patent number: 5982549Abstract: This invention provides a vision system that increases the field of view of an electronic binocular system without degrading image quality or requiring extremely large format sensors or displays. The vision system comprises an imaging device coupled with a viewing device. The imaging device comprises a compression lens and an image sensor. The viewing device comprises an image display and a decompression lens. The compression lens matches the optical distortion to the human visual acuity curve for field positions greater than an angle .theta.. Below angle .theta. there is substantially no distortion. The optimum angle .theta. depends on the application. For an average individual viewing a landscape the angle .theta. is about 10.degree.. For different viewing objects, the optimum angle .theta. varies from about 5.degree. to about 15.degree.. The image sensor can be infrared sensitive for infrared viewing.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 1998Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignee: University Technology CorporationInventors: Kenneth Kubala, Brian Hooker, Lindon Lewis, Andrew Hatch
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Patent number: 5978137Abstract: In an image stabilizing apparatus employing a system in which the rotational position of gimbal suspension is controlled on the basis of an output value from an angular velocity sensor attached thereto, an actuator for pivotally moving an inner gimbal suspension member is incorporated in the gimbal suspension means, thereby making the apparatus to fully exhibit its functions and allowing the case of a binocular to which the apparatus is attached to have a compact configuration. A rotating motor (105) for pivotally moving the inner gimbal suspension member (107) comprises a magnet (156) and a coil (154) which are disposed close and opposite to each other. The magnet (156) is firmly supported by the inner gimbal suspension member (107), while the coil (154) is firmly supported by the outer gimbal suspension member (7).Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1997Date of Patent: November 2, 1999Assignee: Fuji Photo Optical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kenichi Takahashi, Kouichi Nagata
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Patent number: 5969858Abstract: A binocular including two telescope systems with parallel axes, eyepiece frames having a concave surface facing a user, adjustable eye cups with a secure locking mechanism, operation controls placed between the telescope systems, a focus adjustment mechanism, a diopter correction mechanism, and a magnifying-power-varying mechanism. The focus adjustment mechanism and diopter correction mechanism are arranged coaxially. The magnifying-power-varying mechanism includes rotatable cam rings and guide rings connected by a single connecting belt that moves perpendicular to the optical axes to rotate the cam rings. The connecting belt is supported and held in position so that it does not bind. The position of magnifying-power-varying lenses can be adjusted. During assembly, the magnifying-power-varying lenses can be mounted in the guide rings in a number of positions by rotating the lens frames holding the lenses about the optical axis and inserting sliders in linear guide grooves.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 1996Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Gouji Funatsu
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Patent number: 5963369Abstract: A hand-held 3-D imaging system which incorporates the stereoscopic imaging system within a pair of binoculars. Each telescope optical system has a first optical system, a second optical system, and a third optical system. The first optical system allows for external magnified stereo viewing of an object. The second optical system allows for recording the magnified stereo image(s) viewed through the optics of the first optical system. The third optical system allows for reproduction of the magnified stereo image(s) captured by the second optical system. The hand-held 3-D imaging system further includes record and playback modes that are activated by switches connected to electronic processing circuitry located within the frame of the binoculars. The imaging system can also be designed to interact with external memory devices and/or displays.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1997Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Inventors: Gregory Steinthal, David W. Sherlock
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Patent number: 5959769Abstract: Binoculars allow easy alignment of optical axes and correction of parallax in accordance with the distance of an object. The binoculars have correction lenses in right and left optical systems, and perform image-blur correction by moving the correction lenses in directions perpendicular to the optical axes and thereby inclining the optical axes. The binoculars also perform parallax correction by moving the correction lenses in accordance with the object distance and thereby inclining the optical axes such that the object images are kept at the centers of the right and left fields of view. Alignment errors that remain in the optical axes after assembly are eliminated by moving the correction lenses. This elimination of alignment errors is done every time the binoculars are used.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 1997Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Assignee: Minolta Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masatoshi Yoneyama
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Patent number: 5943174Abstract: A monocular night vision device comprising an objective lens assembly for receiving low intensity light; an image intensifier assembly comprising a variable gain image intensifier tube having an adjustable potentiometer mounted external to the tube for converting the low intensity light into a visible output image; a single eyepiece lens assembly for viewing the output image from the image intensifier assembly; and a non-metallic housing for receiving the objective lens assembly, image intensifier assembly, and eyepiece lens assembly, wherein the housing aligns the objective lens assembly with the image intensifier assembly and the eyepiece lens assembly along an optical axis.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 1998Date of Patent: August 24, 1999Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Mark Alan Bryant, Roger Douglas Whiddon, Harrison Lewis Buchanan, Jr., Lapthe Chau Flora, John Carl Nelson, Bradley Todd Philippi
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Patent number: 5936766Abstract: A device removably attachable to a binocular allowing accessory items such as radios and cameras to be secured thereto. The device comprises a planar, substantially rectangular support platform having planar upper and lower surfaces and four peripheral edges. Hingedly attached to the lower surface of the support platform are a pair of arcuate walls for abutting and surrounding the binocular barrels. Integrally extending from an edge of each arcuate wall is a curved resilient finger for surrounding an opposing portion of a binocular barrel whereby the barrel may be secured therebetween. First and second straps depend from opposing edges of the support platform which may be wrapped around an accessory item and joined to secure the accessory item on the upper surface thereof. The retaining device may be further secured to a binocular using a pair of bands extending from opposing edges of the support platform which may be wrapped around the binocular and joined to secure the device thereto.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 1998Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Inventor: Brian L. Speicher
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Patent number: 5909309Abstract: A method and apparatus to correct and eliminate optical anomalies and geometrical distortions in an intensified imaging system, specifically a night vision system. An image is received from the original objective lens assembly of an unintensified imaging system which, presumably, has been designed to produce images sized in accordance with the image sensor size of its host camera or camcorder. The format matching lens assembly receives the image from the original objective lens system and magnifies it so that it is output onto the entire circular active area of a mechanically inserted image intensifier. Having received an image across its entire circular active area, the image intensifier is able to amplify or intensify the image using the received light without creating any optical distortions. Once intensified without distortion, the image must be still further modified to fit its original format size.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 1997Date of Patent: June 1, 1999Assignee: Electrophysics Corp.Inventors: Gerard Di Taranto, Frank J. Vallese, Michael Roselli
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Patent number: 5886814Abstract: A folded image intensifier viewer with an asymmetric viewing system and a single image intensifier and two eyepieces able to regulate the mutual distance between the eyepieces, after a beam splitter which divides the beam path into two extremely asymmetric parts, for each eyepiece a lens system is provided with at least one having at least two lenses.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1997Date of Patent: March 23, 1999Assignee: Simrad Optronics A/SInventor: Sven-.ANG.ke Afsenius
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Patent number: 5883738Abstract: A binocular incorporates a focusing and diopter correction mechanism having a common shaft, whereby the diopter adjustment is performed by rotation of the shaft and the focusing operation is performed by axial movement of the shaft. The lens-moving portions of the focusing/diopter adjustment mechanism are in a cavity having an access hole, in which the shaft enters the access hole through a water-tight seal to control the lens-moving portions of the adjustment mechanism. The binocular also incorporates a strap attaching mechanism having a spring-loaded clip and groove, wherein a flanged pin provided to a strap end is pushed past the clip into the groove, and the clip returns under the bias of the spring to hold the flanged pin in the groove. Also included is an eyecup adjustment mechanism having two positions defined by click-stops, wherein the eyecups are not rotatable, but are longitudinally slidable relative to corresponding support barrels.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 1997Date of Patent: March 16, 1999Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Gouji Funatsu
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Patent number: 5866048Abstract: A method for producing a group of binoculars entails the use of injection molding to mold prism set housings with great uniformity. Prior to any production run, the mold is refined by iteratively producing and testing a prism set housing, altering the mold, and then molding another test prism set housing. This method is less time-consuming and less expensive than methods available until now. Moreover, it permits the production of binocular channels that are more thoroughly waterproof than previously available because no aperture in the binocular channel is necessary for the adjustment of individual prism set housings.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 1996Date of Patent: February 2, 1999Assignee: Leupold & Stevens, Inc.Inventors: Joseph David Van Domelen, Mark A. Thomas
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Patent number: 5847868Abstract: A night vision binocular assembly (10) capable of converting low light and infrared energy into a visible image. The night vision binocular assembly (10) includes at least one objective lens assembly (62), image intensifier tube (64), collimator lens assembly (66) and diopter cell assembly (68) encased in an easy to assembly waterproof housing (16). The objective lens assembly (62), image intensifier tube (64), collimator lens assembly (66) and diopter cell assembly (68) are all supported by a common base structure (80) within the housing (16). As a result, variations caused by thermal expansions and contractions are evenly distributed among the various optical elements, thereby preserving a predetermined optical relationship between those elements. Simple button controls (28, 30, 31) are used to operate and adjust the night vision binocular assembly (10). The button controls (28, 30, 31) are disposed on a common circuit board (38).Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 1996Date of Patent: December 8, 1998Assignee: ITT CorporationInventor: Gary L. Palmer
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Patent number: 5838492Abstract: An optical system which is telecentric to an image, having an objective optical system for forming a model image based on rays from the model magnified by a predetermined ratio to an actual object. An eyepiece lens is included for observing the model image formed through the objective optical system. The distance between the objective optical system and the eyepiece lens is varied so that a visual impression obtained by observing the model image through the eyepiece lens becomes substantially equal to a visual impression obtained by observing the actual object directly with the eyes.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 1997Date of Patent: November 17, 1998Assignee: Nikon CorporationInventors: Atsushi Katsunuma, Kazuaki Sato
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Patent number: 5786932Abstract: A single eye vision device includes a head mount, a vision assist assembly mounted on the head mount for selectable positioning in front of an eye of a wearer and single lever operated positioning apparatus for positioning of the vision assist assembly on the head mount.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 1994Date of Patent: July 28, 1998Assignee: International Technologies (Lasers), Ltd.Inventor: Zeev Pniel
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Patent number: 5777785Abstract: Binoculars provided with first and second objective lens barrels respectively having objective lenses at an end, first and second eyepiece lens barrels respectively having eyepiece lenses and adapted to slide respectively on the other end portions of the first and second objective lens barrels, prisms positioned between the objective lenses and the eyepiece lenses and provided respectively in the first and second objective lens barrels, and a focusing mechanism provided with a focusing member and adapted to displace the first and second eyepiece lens barrels in the axial direction by the rotation of the focusing member, wherein each of the prisms is composed of a roof prism having an entrance face for receiving the light beam from the objective lens and an exit face for introducing the received light beam to the eyepiece lens, the exit face being so formed as to be loosely insertable in the eyepiece lens barrel and the periphery of the entrance face being fixed in the objective lens barrel so as that the exitType: GrantFiled: January 18, 1996Date of Patent: July 7, 1998Assignee: Nikon CorporationInventor: Yasuaki Ishikawa
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Patent number: 5757551Abstract: A beam splitter device is disclosed for a collimator assembly which includes a housing having optics to collimate light. The beam splitter includes a base member having a tent-like structure which includes two inclined surfaces. A mirror element is supported by each of the inclined surfaces and a mechanism is included for securing the beam splitter to the housing.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 1997Date of Patent: May 26, 1998Assignee: ITT Industries, Inc.Inventor: Gary Lynn Palmer
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Patent number: 5754339Abstract: A wedge prism unit is positioned on the optical axes of the objective optical systems of two telescope systems of a binocular. The wedge prism unit includes a front wedge prism element and a rear wedge prism element that are oppositely oriented. When rotated by equal amounts in opposite directions, the wedge prism elements deflect incident light in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis. The wedge prism unit is placed along the objective optical axes of the binocular, oriented to deflect the visual field to compensate for vibration. A control circuit controls a single motor according to a vibration sensor to deflect the visual field in a direction opposite to the vibration. The rotation axis is either within or outside of an imaginary plane containing both of the optical axes.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 1996Date of Patent: May 19, 1998Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Moriyasu Kanai, Yasuhiro Nishikata, Tetsuo Sekiguchi
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Patent number: 5734499Abstract: An interpupillary distance adjusting mechanism for use in a binocular telescope, having a pair of lens-barrels which contain lens optical systems, respectively, and are placed in parallel with each other. The interpupillary distance adjusting mechanism further has first and second guide shafts, which slidably guide the pair of lens-barrels in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the optical axes of the lens optical systems, interpupillary distance adjusting springs for pushing the pair of lens-barrels in a sliding direction, and an interpupillary distance adjusting cam which can adjust an interpupillary distance by sliding the pair of lens-barrels along the guide shafts as the result of undergoing a pushing force from the interpupillary distance adjusting spring, of converting a part of the pushing force in a direction which intersects the sliding direction, and of moving the pair of lens-barrels by pushing the pair of lens-barrels against the first guide.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 1995Date of Patent: March 31, 1998Assignee: Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshihiro Matsumoto, Fumio Tomikawa
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Patent number: 5734500Abstract: A wide field monocular is provided which is essentially a wide field virtual telescope. Two of these monoculars can be placed side-by-side to achieve a binocular with an extended monocular field. Also for such binoculars with objective lenses larger than the interocular separation, lunes can be cut from the objective lenses so that they can be placed adjacent each other, with the eyes essentially aligned with the optic axis of each telescope. This provides a remarkable wide field binocular with stereo vision and depth perception.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 1994Date of Patent: March 31, 1998Assignee: Blue Sky Research, Inc.Inventor: Rolin J. Gebelein
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Patent number: 5729384Abstract: A telescope has an objective lens system, an eyepiece optical system, and a third lens system between the objective lens system and the eyepiece optical system. The objective lens system is provided with a circular shape lens whose upper and lower portions are cut off. The eyepiece optical system is also provided with a circular shape lens whose upper and lower portions are cut off. The third lens system is provided with a circular shape lens which is disposed in a position where a light beam formed by the objective lens system has a smaller cross-sectional area.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 1996Date of Patent: March 17, 1998Assignee: Minolta Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kiyoshi Nishitani, Yasumasa Sugihara
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Patent number: 5712726Abstract: Compact binoculars for nighttime vision with a center of gravity close to the user. The binoculars have an optical architecture with an inclined principle pathway. The principle pathway extends by way of a first eyepiece pathway with a second eyepiece pathway branching in a different direction. The binoculars include a bent entrance objective conjugate with a light intensifier tube forming an image of a scene along a viewing axis. The image is next transmitted on the two eyepiece pathways to two eyepieces by way of an optical splitter. The splitter partially transmits the flux to a first eyepiece pathway inclined with respect to the plane of the eyepieces and on a second eyepiece pathway which has an axis lying in the plane perpendicular to the viewing axis and passing through the axis of the principle pathway.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1996Date of Patent: January 27, 1998Assignee: Angenieux SAInventors: Jean-Luc Espie, Bruno Coumert
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Patent number: 5694243Abstract: A sliding binocular body has two optical assemblies which slide on an intermediate plate to adjust for intraocular distance and which slide closed. Two shells are joined to form one assembly. Front and back contour plates cover the assembly. A field and eye lens holder slides into the box through the back plate. An eye piece is attached to the lens holder. Inward horizontal surfaces have inward extending rails, which engage outward facing grooves on the intermediate plate. The two shells are secured together and joined to the intermediate plate before mirrors are slid and clamped into place. The objective lenses are placed in position, and the contour plates are sealed in place. The eye lens and field lens are inserted in the holders before the holders are inserted in the assemblies. The assemblies hold and clamp mirrors against fixed reference surfaces. Objective lens holders formed in the assemblies permit vertical or horizontal adjustment of an objective lens before its fixing.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1996Date of Patent: December 2, 1997Assignees: BNOX, Inc., John A. Gelardi, Anthony L. GelardiInventors: John A. Gelardi, Anthony L. Gelardi, Arthur P. Becker, Benjamin A. Wells
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Patent number: 5680195Abstract: A small, light, wide field (e.g. about a 15 degree field of view), Keplerian bioptic telescope is provided which preferably is mounted in association with conventional eyeglasses. A casing includes first and second open ends, a middle section, and an optical system mounted within it. The optical system includes an eye lens adjacent the casing first end, an objective lens adjacent the casing second end, and a right angle prism and penta prism between the eye lens and objective lens, disposed side by side, typically with faces in face to face engagement. A field lens may be provided between the eye lens and the prisms. The position of the objective lens is adjustable by movement toward and away from the casing middle section. An opening may be formed in a first eyeglass lens and the casing press fit into the opening so that the first end of the casing is on a first side of the eyeglass lens and the middle section is on the second side of the eyeglass lens opposite the first side, extending about 1.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 1995Date of Patent: October 21, 1997Assignee: Ocutech, Inc.Inventors: Jaroslaw Pekar, Henry A. Greene
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Patent number: 5677789Abstract: A binocular incorporates a focusing and diopter correction mechanism having a common shaft, whereby the diopter adjustment is performed by rotation of the shaft and the focusing operation is performed by axial movement of the shaft. The lens-moving portions of the focusing/diopter adjustment mechanism are in a cavity having an access hole, in which the shaft enters the access hole through a water-tight seal to control the lens-moving portions of the adjustment mechanism. The binocular also incorporates a strap attaching mechanism having a spring-loaded clip and groove, wherein a flanged pin provided to a strap end is pushed past the clip into the groove, and the clip returns under the bias of the spring to hold the flanged pin in the groove. Also included is an eyecup adjustment mechanism having two positions defined by click-stops, wherein the eyecups are not rotatable, but are longitudinally slidable relative to corresponding support barrels.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1994Date of Patent: October 14, 1997Assignee: Asahi Kogaku Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Gouji Funatsu
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Patent number: 5673146Abstract: A wide FOV binocular imaging system utilizes an imaging structure (14) to produce an intermediate image (16), and a field lens (18) and beam splitting surface (20) located proximate the intermediate image to concentrate, split, and direct the light from the intermediate image into an eye lens (22) at two viewing zones exit pupils (22(a), 22(b)). The present invention produces a wide FOV and comfortable exit pupil while employing a single entrance pupil.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 1994Date of Patent: September 30, 1997Inventor: Shawn L. Kelly
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Patent number: 5652679Abstract: An optical system including at least one lens and erecting mirrors designed and arranged to give an inherent aperture and field greater in one direction than another direction. By using a low power eyepiece lens it is possible to arrange for a user's eye or eyes to be further behind the eyepiece lens so that the user can wear normal spectacles to correct for eye defects. When a pair of the optical systems is used in a pair of binoculars, it is possible for the exit pupils to be in a form of horizontal slots so the systems do not have to have adjustable spacing to allow for a particular user's eye separation.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 1993Date of Patent: July 29, 1997Assignee: Optics and Vision LimitedInventor: Michael Harold Freeman
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Patent number: 5644425Abstract: A night vision device having an image intensifier tube, collimator lenses and at least one aspheric ocular lens are retained within a unistructurally formed optical bed. The optical bed is essentially a tubular structure having a large receptacle at one end to receive the image intensifier tube. The tubular structure is configured so that the various collimator lenses can be stacked within the tubular structure in a highly precise yet labor and cost efficient manner. A housing is provided that conforms to the shape of the electro-optical subassembly. The housing has a substantially similar ocular end structure and objective end structure. An objective lens assembly and ocular lens assembly are retained by the housing. Both the objective lens assembly and the ocular lens assembly contain at least one lens held with a commonly shaped lens casing.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1995Date of Patent: July 1, 1997Assignee: Itt CorporationInventor: Gary L. Palmer
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Patent number: D394664Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 1997Date of Patent: May 26, 1998Assignee: Nikon CorporationInventor: Jun Konno