Body Or Apparel Attached Or Carried Patents (Class 359/815)
  • Patent number: 11536945
    Abstract: A binocular device that is wearable on the head of the user or wearer and does not require any hands to hold in place. The device has a pair of telescope sections that transmit an image to an eyepiece viewable by a wearer. Each eyepiece can be adjusted laterally to conform to the wearer's interpupillary distance; vertically, preferably vertically in an arc to provide a desired viewing angle; and longitudinally in relation to the wearer's eyes to a desired eye relief; the adjustments providing a custom-fit device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2022
    Inventor: Brian Reynolds
  • Patent number: 11425829
    Abstract: The invention discloses a head-mounted display apparatus. The head-mounted display comprises a headband module and a head-mounted display module, wherein the head-mounted display comprises an optical module, the headband comprises a connecting structure connected with the head-mounted display housing so as to adjust the wearing angle of the head-mounted display module; The optical module comprises a module housing, a left lens barrel mechanism, a right lens barrel mechanism, a left sight distance adjusting mechanism and a left pupillary distance adjusting mechanism for adjusting the sight distance and pupillary distance of the left lens barrel mechanism, a right sight distance adjusting mechanism and a right pupillary distance adjusting mechanism for adjusting the sight distance and pupillary distance of the right lens barrel mechanism. The head-mounted display can separately adjust the sight distance and pupillary distance of the left and right lens barrel mechanism, as well as the wearing angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2022
    Assignee: SHENZHEN KUKU TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Xiaolin Zheng, Jun Liu, Hao Chen
  • Patent number: 11215832
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electronic device. An electronic device according to the present invention includes: a main frame having a first opening; a display unit connected to the main frame and having a display area which may be exposed through the first opening; and a virtual reality frame movably coupled to the main frame and having a second opening to which a first lens is coupled, in which when the virtual reality frame moves to a first location where the first opening and the second opening are arranged side by side in a sight direction of a user, the user is capable of recognizing an image of the display unit as a virtual reality image through the first lens, and when the virtual reality frame moves to a second location deviated from the first location, the user is capable of recognizing the image of the display unit as an augmented reality image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Seungyong Shin, Hyunchul Kim, Sungchul Shin, Taekyoung Oh, Changkyu Hwang
  • Patent number: 10004289
    Abstract: Helmet mounts for mounting an associated viewing device on a helmet, includes a first pivoting segment for attachment to the helmet and a second pivoting segment for attachment to the associated viewing device. The second pivoting segment is pivotable relative to the first pivoting segment for selectively supporting the associated viewing device in a first, operational position before the eyes of a user donning the helmet and a second, stowed position above a line of sight of a viewer donning the helmet. In one aspect, the first pivoting segment includes a vertical adjust mechanism having a base plate, a pair of guide rails attached to the base plate and defining a channel therebetween, a sliding plate slidably attached to the guide rails, and a clamping mechanism for selectively applying a clamping force to secure the sliding plate at a desired position relative to the base plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: Wilcox Industries Corp.
    Inventors: James W. Teetzel, Gary M. Lemire, Marc J. Celona
  • Patent number: 9549583
    Abstract: A helmet that can include a helmet body comprising an energy absorption layer and an outer shell. A first opening can be formed through the outer shell and extend into the energy absorbing layer, the first opening including a perimeter. A first sleeve can be disposed at least partially within the first opening, the first sleeve including a first end including a first flange coupled to the outer shell and extending beyond the perimeter of the first opening, and a second end opposite the first end including a base disposed over the energy absorption layer. A camera can be coupled to the first sleeve and exposed through the first opening. The helmet can further include the first sleeve including a depth greater than a width or a length. The first flange can be directly coupled to an outer surface or an inner of the outer shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Bell Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher T. Pietrzak, Scott R. Allen, Joseph D. Tomascheski
  • Publication number: 20150098141
    Abstract: A removable optical loupe that is mountable to headwear is provided. The inventive loupe is configured to clip on to the brim of a hat, or the bill of a cap or visor. Embodiments of the inventive loupe have a pivoting joint for positioning the lens of the optical loupe into and out of the line of sight when not in use. The lens of the inventive optical loupe is used for magnifying objects for inspection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2013
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventor: Gerald Mansuy
  • Patent number: 8929060
    Abstract: An apparatus of the present disclosure enhances the audio/visual experience of a portable digital device, and comprises a lens positioning slot, a lens storage compartment, a passive audio amplifier, a receiving station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Screendoor Studio, Inc.
    Inventors: James W. Waitzman, III, Lewis Dorsey Cox, Zachary A. Griggs
  • Publication number: 20140268373
    Abstract: A comfortable finger mounted optical device requiring an optical device, at least one bonding holder, strap, or elastic band sized to receive any finger(s) or thumb, and a base plate or case. The comfortable finger mounted optical device can have many different variations including, but not limited to, the incorporation of split rings, straps, elastic bands, sleeves, Fresnel lens, or pivotal or slidable lens assemblies. In addition, the comfortable finger mounted optical device can have various attachments including, but not limited to, advertisements, an elastic cover, or LED's. This device is useable, convenient, as well as comfortable and snug-fitting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Jerry Selness
  • Patent number: 8792189
    Abstract: A personal media viewing device has a frame that adjustably holds a pair of lenses. The frame has tracks along a bottom inside portion that guides the lenses as a lens adjustment knob is turned. The adjustment knob is attached to a translating screw shaft that has opposingly threaded portions that interact with a left and right traveling nut attached to each lens and moves each lens in an opposite direction. An elastic strap is used to removably hold a personal media device to the frame and a head attachment portion is provided to allow a user to operate the personal media viewing device hands free. The adjustment knob allows a user to adjust the lenses to an off-axis position selected to reduce eyestrain, headaches and other non-desirable effects associated with viewing a device in front of the user's eyes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Inventor: Bibek Sahu
  • Patent number: 8705188
    Abstract: A lens barrel and imaging device with a low likelihood of optical characteristics being degraded by an impact from a fall or the like may be provided. A lens barrel including: a retention member that retains an optical system; and a first guide shaft that guides the retention member to be movable along an optical axis of the optical system, wherein the retention member includes, a first engaging portion that engages with the first guide shaft, and an abutting portion disposed at the opposite side of the optical axis from the side thereof at which the first engaging portion is disposed, at a position that is offset in the optical axis direction from the engaging portion, the abutting portion being abuttable against an abutted portion when a force in the optical axis direction is applied at least to the retention member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Nikon Corporation
    Inventor: Kunihiro Fukino
  • Patent number: 8634149
    Abstract: A system tube of an endoscope optical system, designed to contain cylindrical elements of an image guide provided with lenses and to support the elements by tongues cut out of the wall of the system tube and deformed nonelastically. Wherein the tongues are deformed toward the outside and are bent elastically by a holder toward the inside to below the level of the outer surface of the system tube. In a system tube of an endoscope optical system, designed to contain cylindrical elements of an image guide provided with lenses and to support the elements by means of nonelastically deformed tongues cut out of the wall of the system tube, the tongues are deformed toward the outside and are elastically bent by a holder toward the inside to below the level of the outer surface of the system tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Olympus Winter & IBE GmbH
    Inventor: Gregor Kiedrowski
  • Patent number: 8599502
    Abstract: An optical element unit is provided comprising an optical element group for projecting light along an optical axis of the optical element group and a housing having an inner housing part partly defining a first space and a light passageway between the inner housing part and a second space. The inner housing part receives the optical element group. The optical element group comprises an ultimate optical element located in the region of the light passageway. A load-relieving device is provided adjacent to the ultimate optical element, the load relieving device partly defining the first space and the second space and at least partly relieving the ultimate optical element from loads resulting from pressure differences between the first space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss SMT GmbH
    Inventor: Johannes Lippert
  • Patent number: 8516704
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing suspension devices comprising the steps of: a) forming an integral elastic sheet, the elastic sheet having first and second suspension devices, each suspension device being provided with attachment parts configured to be fixed to a movable object, fixing parts configured to be fixed to a base, and elastic parts connected between the attachment parts and the fixing parts respectively and configured to bias the object relative to the base, the elastic parts of the suspension devices being alternately distributed; b) separating the first and second suspension devices from each other before being attached to the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Johnson Electric S.A.
    Inventors: Guo Ji Zhang, Kam Fung Cheng, Yue Li, Jian Hong Wu, Hong Liu, Guan Lei Jiang
  • Patent number: 8438663
    Abstract: A lens assembly for securing in an opening in a face plate of a face protector has a first, retainer lens of shape and dimensions configured to be secured in the front opening of a face plate and having a curvature substantially matching the curvature of the face plate. A second lens of smaller dimensions is secured behind the first lens to provide a lens-in-a-lens configuration. The lens assembly may be releasably secured in the face plate opening and the second lens is interchangeable with sets of lenses having different properties such as lens shade. The retainer assembly has a back cover and a gasket or spacer between the back cover and second lens to allow second lenses of different depths to be secured in the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Jerry Dean Wright
  • Patent number: 8416517
    Abstract: A survival apparatus operable to ignite a combustible material wherein the survival apparatus additionally functions as a zipper pull-tab for an article of clothing. The survival apparatus further includes a body that is substantially rigid and generally rectangular in shape. The body includes a first aperture that is oval in shape and has a convex lens mounted therein. A coating is disposed over the body operable to substantially inhibit damage to the lens mounted within the first aperture during use as a zipper pull. A release strip is intermediate the body and the coating wherein the release strip further includes a tab providing an interface to engage the release strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Gordan Peterson
  • Patent number: 8284505
    Abstract: A voice coil motor includes a movable member, a base, and a first elastic member. The movable member comprises a barrel, and a plurality of fixing posts protrudes from the bottom of the barrel. The base defines a through hole, a plurality of recessed portions, and a plurality of concavities. The axis of through hole is coaxial with the barrel. The recessed portions surround the aperture. Each of the recessed portions is arranged between two concavities. The depth of the recessed portion is less than the height of the fixing post, and the depth of the concavity is larger than that of the recessed portion. The elastic member comprises an elastic portion, which defines a first fixing hole. The fixing post extends through the first fixing hole and is received in the recessed portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yu-Bin Wang
  • Patent number: 8218255
    Abstract: A lens barrel unit includes a holder configured to hold a lens, a cam cylinder including a cam groove configured to engage with the holder and define a movement of the holder in an optical axis direction, and a projection that has a part of the cam groove and projects in the optical axis direction, and a straightforward movement cylinder configured to guide a straightforward movement of the holder, the straightforward movement cylinder including a flange forming a notch. In a process from a retraction state in which the projection is located in the notch to an image pickup state in which the projection is located outside of the notch, the straightforward movement cylinder moves relative to the cam cylinder in the optical axis direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kenichi Katano
  • Patent number: 8064150
    Abstract: A collapsible lens barrel is provided, including a mechanism capable of reliably inhibiting rotation of a rotational barrel even if any impact is applied thereto, for example, due to a fall with the barrel being extended. When the rotational barrel is pressed upon a fixed member due to impact in defiance of the biasing force of a wave spring, a first engagement portion provided at a camera body-side end of the rotational barrel engages with second engagement portions provided on a subject-side surface of the fixed member, which locks rotation of the rotational barrel, thereby making it possible to prevent gears from being damaged, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Nakada, Hideaki Kawane, Hiroyasu Fujinaka, Itaru Enguchi
  • Patent number: 8018664
    Abstract: A housing structure has a frame structure 1 on which there are arranged via connecting elements 7 several optical elements 5 which are held in mounts 6 or structural modules 6?. The optical elements 5 are detachably connected to the frame structure 1 with their mounts 6 or structural modules 6? and connecting elements 7 in such a way that in the installed state they are integrated as bearing units in the frame structure 1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss SMT GmbH
    Inventors: Stefan Xalter, Peter Deufel, Yim Bun Patrick Kwan, Bernard Stommen, Herman Soemers, Franz Van Deuren, Paul Peter Anne Brom
  • Publication number: 20110179541
    Abstract: A lens assembly for securing in an opening in a face plate of a face protector has a first, retainer lens of shape and dimensions configured to be secured in the front opening of a face plate and having a curvature substantially matching the curvature of the face plate. A second lens of smaller dimensions is secured behind the first lens to provide a lens-in-a-lens configuration. The lens assembly may be releasably secured in the face plate opening and the second lens is interchangeable with sets of lenses having different properties such as lens shade. The retainer assembly has a back cover and a gasket or spacer between the back cover and second lens to allow second lenses of different depths to be secured in the assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Inventor: Jerry Dean Wright
  • Patent number: 7974022
    Abstract: A lens module includes a barrel, a first lens, an annular retaining member and three driving devices. The retaining member is arranged in the barrel. The driving devices are arranged on the retaining member. Each of the driving devices has a base attached on the retaining member, a plurality of first electrodes formed on the base and a comb-shaped carrier. The carrier has a beam attached on the base and a plurality of second electrodes extending from the beam and suspended above the first electrodes at a first position. The first lens is carried by the second electrodes. When a first voltage is applied on the first electrodes and a second voltage is applied on the second electrodes, an electrostatic force is generated between the first electrodes and the second electrodes, and the second electrodes are moved down, such that the first lens is brought to a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jen-Tsorng Chang
  • Patent number: 7944628
    Abstract: An optical element unit is provided comprising an optical element group for projecting light along an optical axis of the optical element group and a housing having an inner housing part partly defining a first space and a light passageway between the inner housing part and a second space. The inner housing part receives the optical element group. The optical element group comprises an ultimate optical element located in the region of the light passageway. A load-relieving device is provided adjacent to the ultimate optical element, the load relieving device partly defining the first space and the second space and at least partly relieving the ultimate optical element from loads resulting from pressure differences between the first space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss SMT GmbH
    Inventor: Johannes Lippert
  • Patent number: 7852576
    Abstract: A lens module includes a base, a carrier carrying a lens, two elastic members attached on the base and supporting the carrier, and a number of thermal actuators. The carrier is movable relative to the base. The thermal actuators each have a first arm and a second arm. The first and second arms are aligned in an optical axis direction of the lens and each have a first end electrically and mechanically coupled to the base and a distal end, the distal ends thereof are interconnected and attached to the carrier. The first arms are thinner than the second arms so that the first arms are capable of deflecting toward the second arms due to differential heat generated when an electrical current is passed through the first and second arms from the first ends thereof to the second ends thereof, thereby the carrier is moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jen-Tsorng Chang
  • Patent number: 7791806
    Abstract: The invention relates to an ophthalmological display comprising an optical imager (10) for shaping light beams emitted by a miniature screen (20) of a light beam generator system and for directing the beams towards the eye (O) of the wearer to enable an image (I) to be viewed, said imager presenting an outlet optical axis (A). According to the invention, the display includes a device for adjusting to the user's pupil spacing, the device including means for adjusting the position of said image (I1, I2) in a plane substantially perpendicular to said optical axis (A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Essilor Int'l (Compagnie Generale d'Optique)
    Inventors: Renaud Moliton, Benjamin Rousseau
  • Publication number: 20100202046
    Abstract: Various ways are provided to visually distinguish one pair of TV 3D glasses from another in a home, including numbering the glasses, providing a white space on each pair of glasses that can be marked, color coding the glasses, and providing a visually unique band for each pair of glasses that can be engaged with the stem of the glasses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventor: Robert Hardacker
  • Patent number: 7766562
    Abstract: A lens support system for stabilizing and securing a large camera lens when it is attached to a camera is disclosed. The lens support system consists of a lens cradle that is attached to the tripod mount of a large camera lens, and a neck strap attached to the lens cradle that will be worn around the photographer's neck. The lens support system can also be used to secure a lens when unattached to a camera, and can be used as a balanced hand-hold without the neck strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Dowell
  • Patent number: 7729063
    Abstract: A mechanism for adjusting the angular position of an optical device with respect to a field helmet is disclosed. The mechanism includes an optical device mounting component for coupling to the optical device. A field helmet mounting component is provided for coupling to the field helmet. The field helmet mounting component is rotatably coupled to the optical device mounting component about an axis of rotation. An angular adjustment mechanism is engaged between the optical device mounting component and the field helmet mounting component. The angular adjustment mechanism includes a translating member that is moveably translatable along an axis of translation for engaging a surface of either the field helmet mounting component or the optical device mounting component. Translation of the translating member along the axis of translation induces rotation of the optical device mounting component about the axis of rotation for adjusting the angular position of the optical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles D. Willey, Todd Michael Neff
  • Publication number: 20100118421
    Abstract: An optical assembly includes a light path and at least one optic to be positioned in the path. A support arrangement supports the optic having a foot arrangement including at least one foot that receives a direct manipulation with the foot slidingly engaged against a support surface to move the optic relative to the light path. Movement of the foot may move the optic along a predetermined path. The foot defines a footprint for engaging the support surface and receives the direct manipulation in a way which changes the footprint on the support surface to move the optic responsive to changes in the footprint. A movement arrangement may selectively bias the foot against the support surface during a movement mode, intended to permit movement of the foot against the support surface, and in a locked mode, intended to lock the foot against the support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2010
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: EMCORE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Nathan G. Woodard, Eric C. Johnson, Jon F. Nielsen, Joseph R. Demers, Chien-Chung Chen
  • Patent number: 7715125
    Abstract: A mechanism for adjusting the position of an optical device with respect to a field helmet along an axis of translation is provided. The mechanism comprises an optical device mounting component for coupling to the optical device. A field helmet mounting component for coupling to the field helmet is slideably coupled to the optical device mounting component along the axis of translation. A lever configured for selectively engaging a surface of either mounting component permits translation of the optical device mounting component along the axis of translation with respect to the field helmet. The optical device mounting component is configured to translate along the axis of translation with respect to the field helmet between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein the optical device is proximal to the helmet in the retracted position and distal to the helmet in the extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles D. Willey
  • Patent number: 7701652
    Abstract: A mounting process/device for mounting and alignment of micro optical electro-mechanical systems (MOEMS) elements and/or devices. The mounting process/device can be obtained by attaching at least one optical element onto a mounting system, which contains an embedded optical element. The attached optical element(s) are aligned with respect to the embedded optical element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: MEMS Optical, Inc.
    Inventor: John S. Harchanko
  • Patent number: 7697217
    Abstract: A lens barrel comprising: a plurality of lens groups including two lens groups for guiding object light; and a lens drive apparatus for moving the two lens groups in the plurality of lens groups in a direction of an optical axis, the lens drive apparatus includes a single motor and a lead screw rotated by the rotation of the motor; wherein the lens drive apparatus is structured in such a manner that one lens group of the two lens groups is moved linearly to the rotation of the lead screw, and the other lens group of the two lens groups is moved non-linearly to the rotation of the lead screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Konica Minolta Opto, Inc.
    Inventors: Akira Funahashi, Tougo Teramoto, Hiroshi Hasegawa, Shigeo Homme
  • Patent number: 7667905
    Abstract: A device is shown having at least two movable lens units, wherein each of the at least two movable lens units has at least one lens, wherein the at least two movable lens units are movable into a first state wherein the at least two movable lens units are arranged in parallel to each other, and wherein the at least two movable lens units are movable into a second state wherein the at least two movable lens units are arranged on top of each other for positioning the lenses of the at least two movable lens units in an optical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Nokia Corporation
    Inventor: Marko Eromäki
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7643231
    Abstract: A mechanism for permitting selective adjustment of the angular position of a head-mounted night vision device is provided. The mechanism comprises a housing positioned adjacent the night vision device. A shaft defining a longitudinal axis is at least partially positioned within or adjacent the housing. The shaft is rotatively coupled to the night vision device, wherein rotation of the shaft induces rotation of the night vision device. A moveable lever is coupled to the shaft for rotating the shaft. Means for selectively limiting rotation of the shaft are provided, wherein the means are moveable between a first position and a second position. In the first position the means permit rotation of the shaft and the optical device, and in the second position the means limit rotation of the shaft and the optical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: David Richards
  • Patent number: 7633691
    Abstract: An optical element mounting includes a frame, and a shuttle that is translatable relative to the frame. The shuttle includes inner and outer portions that are mechanically coupled together by a plurality of flexures that effectively bending and twisting of the shuttle from being transmitted to an optical element, such as an optical window, that is mounted on the inner portion of the shuttle. The flexures may be thin linking strips of material between the outer and inner portions. The flexures may have a thickness that is greater in an expected load direction, than in a direction perpendicular to the load direction. The optical mounting may include a locking mechanism, for example including a shape memory alloy wire, to lock the shuttle in a predetermined location relative to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Gary H. Johnson, John A. Thomas, John A. Winkler
  • Patent number: 7594188
    Abstract: An operating menu is provided for display with a touch-sensitive display screen (105) in a surgical microscope (100). The operating menu has a first operator-controlled area (106) wherein at least one touch-sensitive actuation field (107) is provided for adjusting a surgical microscope operating mode. In a second operator-controlled area (108) of the operating menu, a touch-sensitive actuation field (109) is provided with a function dependent upon an adjusted surgical microscope operating mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss AG
    Inventors: Frank Rudolph, Karlheinz Hermann, Martin Schneider, Stefan Ernsperger
  • Patent number: 7551374
    Abstract: A suspension apparatus comprises a lens holder, a suspension spring and a supporting base. The supporting base is formed with an opening for accommodating the lens holder. The lens holder is for positioning a lens unit. The suspension spring is manufactured by stamping process to form a long strip with a plurality of suspension springs. The strip is then guided into a mold, and plastic injection molding process is performed in that mold so as to produce the lens holder and supporting base affixed respectively to either end of the suspension spring in one piece. After that, excess material of the strip is cut off. The suspension apparatus as above described is suitable for mass production. In addition, because of the high precision of mold, the inaccuracy of assembly and fabrication is minimized. The volume of the whole apparatus and the cost of production are also vastly decreased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventors: Chi Lone Chang, Wen Tsai Hsu
  • Patent number: 7551360
    Abstract: An optical lens has an inner lens surface and an outer lens surface separated by a lens thickness adjacent to an edge portion of the lens. The edge portion has at least a partially exposed edge surface extending substantially linearly from the inner lens surface toward the outer lens surface coextensively with at least a major portion of the lens thickness at a location adjacent to the edge portion, and at a predetermined inclination with respect to a portion of the lens surface at such location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan W. Reichow, Karl Citek
  • Patent number: 7545588
    Abstract: A focusing-free microlens assembly includes a holder and a plurality of optical lenses mounted on the holder. Each of the holder and the optical lenses has a tolerance, and a combinative tolerance of the tolerances of the holder and the optical lenses is less than a depth of focus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Ether Precision, Inc.
    Inventor: Ting-Kuo Hua
  • Publication number: 20090135506
    Abstract: A mechanism for adjusting the angular position of an optical device with respect to a field helmet is disclosed. The mechanism includes an optical device mounting component for coupling to the optical device. A field helmet mounting component is provided for coupling to the field helmet. The field helmet mounting component is rotatably coupled to the optical device mounting component about an axis of rotation. An angular adjustment mechanism is engaged between the optical device mounting component and the field helmet mounting component. The angular adjustment mechanism includes a translating member that is moveably translatable along an axis of translation for engaging a surface of either the field helmet mounting component or the optical device mounting component. Translation of the translating member along the axis of translation induces rotation of the optical device mounting component about the axis of rotation for adjusting the angular position of the optical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Applicant: ITT MANUFACTURING ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Charles D. Willey, Todd Michael Neff
  • Publication number: 20090135505
    Abstract: A mechanism for adjusting the position of an optical device with respect to a field helmet along an axis of translation is provided. The mechanism comprises an optical device mounting component for coupling to the optical device. A field helmet mounting component for coupling to the field helmet is slideably coupled to the optical device mounting component along the axis of translation. A lever configured for selectively engaging a surface of either mounting component permits translation of the optical device mounting component along the axis of translation with respect to the field helmet. The optical device mounting component is configured to translate along the axis of translation with respect to the field helmet between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein the optical device is proximal to the helmet in the retracted position and distal to the helmet in the extended position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Applicant: ITT MANUFACTURING ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: Charles D. Willey
  • Publication number: 20090133179
    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: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Applicant: ITT MANUFACTURING ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventors: Raymond Aguero, Todd Neff, William Eric Garris, Roy Holmes
  • Publication number: 20090135507
    Abstract: A mechanism for permitting selective adjustment of the angular position of a head-mounted night vision device is provided. The mechanism comprises a housing positioned adjacent the night vision device. A shaft defining a longitudinal axis is at least partially positioned within or adjacent the housing. The shaft is rotatively coupled to the night vision device, wherein rotation of the shaft induces rotation of the night vision device. A moveable lever is coupled to the shaft for rotating the shaft. Means for selectively limiting rotation of the shaft are provided, wherein the means are moveable between a first position and a second position. In the first position the means permit rotation of the shaft and the optical device, and in the second position the means limit rotation of the shaft and the optical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Applicant: ITT MANUFACTURING ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: David Richards
  • Patent number: 7508602
    Abstract: An optical assembly (16) for a precision apparatus (10) includes an optical element (234) and a housing (230) that defines a housing cavity (244). The housing (230) includes a body section (238), a removable section (240) and a fastener assembly (242). The body section (238) is secured to an apparatus frame (12) of the precision apparatus (10). The removable section (240) retains the optical element (234) with the optical element (234) positioned in the housing cavity (244). The fastener assembly (242) selective secures the removable section (240) to the body section (238). With this design, the removable section (240) can be selectively removed to repair or replace the optical element (234) and the optical element (234) is supported by a rigid mechanical housing (230) so that the optical element (234) is less susceptible to long term or operating misalignments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Bookham Technology plc
    Inventors: David F. Arnone, Ken Wallace, Carl Iacono
  • Patent number: 7499229
    Abstract: Objective lens 20 is placed above the bobbin 40 at a position opposite to the light emitting end of the light guiding member, and the fixing portions 31 provided appropriately between the objective lens 20 and the lens support 41 are hardened in a short time because of being exposed to a UV hardening light beam which is selectively irradiated onto the fixing portions, or the intensity of which has been reduced to the wavelength region in which optical characteristics of the objective lens are practically deteriorated, in order to reduce the deterioration in the transmission characteristics in the wavelength range at which the optical elements are to be used, when fixing optical elements such as a plastic objective lens, etc., are used with a UV hardening type of adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Konica Minolta Opto, Inc.
    Inventors: Kazuo Ishida, Yoshitaka Toyoizumi, Etsumi Nakajo
  • Publication number: 20090002851
    Abstract: An optical assembly includes a light path and at least one optic to be positioned in the path. A support arrangement supports the optic having a foot arrangement including at least one foot that receives a direct manipulation with the foot slidingly engaged against a support surface to move the optic relative to the light path. Movement of the foot may move the optic along a predetermined path. The foot defines a footprint for engaging the support surface and receives the direct manipulation in a way which changes the footprint on the support surface to move the optic responsive to changes in the footprint. A movement arrangement may selectively bias the foot against the support surface during a movement mode, intended to permit movement of the foot against the support surface, and in a locked mode, intended to lock the foot against the support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventors: Nathan G. Woodard, Eric C. Johnson, Jon F. Nielsen, Joseph R. Demers, Chien-Chung Chen
  • Patent number: 7443620
    Abstract: There are provided a lens barrel unit and an imaging apparatus in which a plurality of constituent elements can be driven using a linear driving mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Konica Minolta Photo Imaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Yoshifumi Mitani, Naohiko Hayashi
  • Patent number: 7428112
    Abstract: In an objective lens driving device having a lens holder movably holding an objective lens, a damper base, and a suspension member elastically supporting the lens holder with respect to the damper base, the suspension member consists of four suspension wires disposed on both sides of the damper base and the lens holder. The damper base has first supporting portions for supporting one end of each suspension wire while the lens holder has second supporting portions for supporting another end of each suspension wire. The second supporting portions are apart from the first supporting portion by a first distance. The damper base has damper portions which are disposed between the first and the second supporting portions and which are apart from the first supporting portions by a second distance. The second distance is laid in a range between one-fifths and two-fifths of the first distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: Mitsumi Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tsukasa Yamada
  • Patent number: 7403346
    Abstract: An optical lens has an inner lens surface and an outer lens surface separated by a lens thickness adjacent to an edge portion of the lens. The edge portion has at least a partially exposed edge surface extending substantially linearly from the inner lens surface toward the outer lens surface coextensively with at least a major portion of the lens thickness at a location adjacent to the edge portion, and at a predetermined inclination with respect to a portion of the lens surface at such location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan W. Reichow, Karl Citek
  • Patent number: 7372647
    Abstract: A lens mount assembly for securing a lens in a predetermined position within an optical device is disclosed. The lens mount assembly is configured so as to retain the lens in a press fit arrangement, thereby eliminating the need for adhesives or other mechanical means in order to secure the lens. In one embodiment the lens mount assembly includes a glass lens having an outer surface with a predetermined amount of surface roughness. A retention tube defines a cylindrical volume and is composed of a compliant material that resiliently deforms when the lens is pressed into the cylindrical volume. The compliant material recompresses a small amount around the lens to secure it within the retention tube. A base is attached to or integrally formed with the retention tube and includes a corrugated surface for securing the lens mount assembly within the optical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Finisar Corporation
    Inventors: Stefan Pfnuer, David Morgenstern, Kinya Nippa