Patent Publication Number: US-11391545-B2

Title: Devices and methods of rapidly zeroing a riflescope using a turret display

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to zeroing or sighting in a riflescope using a turret display. 
     Description of Prior Art 
     Rifles, handguns, and crossbows have been used for sport, hunting, and military. 
     Balls and/or bullets are typically shot from a rifle or gun using the arms to aim and sight by aligning the riflescope reticle with the target. 
     An arrow may be shot from a crossbow having a crossbow scope similar to a riflescope. 
     Bullets, balls and arrows, when fired, follow a ballistic trajectory. Such projectiles, which are not self-propelled, move through air according to a generally parabolic (ballistic) curve due primarily to the effects of gravity and air drag. 
     Riflescopes  302  are shown in  FIG. 3A  and  FIG. 3C  and are shown attached to a hunting rifle  302  in  FIG. 3B  and to a military rifle  302  in  FIG. 3D , respectively. 
     Riflescopes conventionally have been fitted with reticles of different forms. Some have horizontal and vertical scope cross hairs  290 . Others reticles such as mil-dot add evenly spaced dots for elevation and windage along the scope cross hairs  290 . Various reticles, such as SR; Multi Aim Point (MAP); and Dot are provided. These reticles are fixed in that the display does not change based on range information. Also, these reticles indicate the approximate holdover position in that they are positioned under the center of the scope, i.e. below where the scope cross hairs  290  intersect. The holdover positions are not necessarily precise, for example, for a specific rifle and ammunition, but are approximated for the general case. 
     Hunters and other firearm and crossbow users commonly utilize handheld rangefinders (see e.g. device  10  in  FIG. 2 ) to determine ranges to targets. Generally, handheld rangefinders utilize lasers to acquire ranges for display to a user. Utilizing the displayed ranges, the user makes sighting corrections to facilitate accurate shooting. 
     In reference to  FIG. 1 , a handheld rangefinder device  10  generally includes a range sensor  12  operable to determine a first range to a target, a tilt sensor  14  operable to determine an angle to the target relative to the device  10 , and a computing element  16 , coupled with the range sensor  12  and the tilt sensor  14 , operable to determine a holdover value based on the first range and the determined angle. The range information is displayed on a display  30 . A housing  20  contains the elements of the device  10 . Many rangefinders show the first linear range to the target and also show an angle and a second range, which represents the horizontal distance to the target. Handheld rangefinders, some riflescopes, and other optical devices may comprise a laser range sensor and an inclinometer. 
     The range information is superimposed over the image that is seen through the optics.  FIG. 2  shows an exemplary handheld rangefinder device  10  with a display  30  in the optical path. 
     With convention rangefinder and a rifle there is no correlation between the display of the rangefinder and the user&#39;s individual riflescope. To make an effective shot requires several steps. All of the movement and time taken during these steps will likely be noticed by the target and allow the target an opportunity to move resulting in having to repeat the process or miss the shot altogether. 
     Further in order to show an accurate aiming point a riflescope needs to be calibrated to a specific rifle, crossbow, or other firearm; the characteristics of the specific projectile or ammunition; and the environmental conditions such as wind, atmospheric pressure, humidity, and temperature. Riflescope calibration is performed by shooting the rifle  302  with specific ammunition, in specific environmental conditions, and adjusting the center of the scope, i.e. where the scope cross hairs  290  appear relative to the optical image coming through the riflescope  302 . Elevation (up and down) is adjusted with an elevation turret  274  (see  FIG. 3A  and  FIG. 3C ). Windage (left and right) is adjusted with a windage turret  276  (see  FIG. 3A  and  FIG. 3C ). The location of the reticle with riflescope and the means for adjusting the optical image are well known to those of skill in the art. Typically the turrets apply pressure to a moveable tube within riflescope. Optical elements mounted in the tube move to change the image presented to the user. 
     Once a riflescope is calibrated to all these factors, most users are hesitant to make any changes to the positions of the turrets in the fields. Instead they leave the scope turrets alone and try to make adjustments in their mind based on differences in the various conditions and characteristics that have changed. A small number of advanced users, such as high-end hunters, and military snipers, are comfortable making changes to the scope calibration to adjust for changes in altitude, wind, or distance. Doing so requires complex calculations and accurate data. This allows them to recalibrate in the field so that the scope cross hairs are accurate for use as an aiming point centered on the target. 
     What is needed are systems and methods of rapidly calibrating a riflescope in the field wherein the user is shown the position of the riflescope turrets and how they should be adjusted, so the user can use the scope cross hairs as centered on the target. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention solves the above-described problems and provides a distinct advance in the art of riflescope calibration and use. More particularly, the invention provides a display that shows the user where the riflescope cross hairs are positioned relative to where they need to be moved, using the turrets, in order to use the scope cross hair centered on the target so that the use can simply and clearly visualize where to aim. Such information facilitates accurate, effective, and safe firearm use. 
     In multiple embodiments, a turret display device indicates the position of the riflescope cross hairs by displaying turret display cross hairs. 
     In multiple embodiments, a turret display device provides dynamic indication of the movement of the riflescope cross hairs, as the turrets turn, so that the user can rapidly center the riflescope cross hairs. 
     In multiple embodiments, a turret display device provides dynamic indication of how to move the riflescope cross hairs in order to calibrate the riflescope to the specific characteristics of the rifle, ammunition, and environments conditions. 
     In some embodiments of a turret display device, the riflescope is calibrated using a relative target. 
     In some embodiments of a turret display device, the riflescope is calibrated using a relative target icon in the turret display to provide the indication of movement of the riflescope cross hairs, as the turrets turn. 
     In some embodiments of a turret display device, the riflescope is calibrated using a relative target icon in the turret display to provide the indication of when the riflescope cross hairs are centered. 
     In some embodiments of a turret display device, a reference image shows the position and movement of the riflescope cross hairs. 
     In some embodiments of a turret display device, the reference image is a user selectable image. 
     In some embodiments of a turret display device, the reference image is a specific game target. 
     In some embodiments of a turret display device, the reference image is a deer. 
     In an embodiment, the turret display device is integrated with the housing of a riflescope and is electrically connected to the turret position signals. 
     In multiple embodiments, the turret display device communicates wirelessly to receive the turret position signals. 
     In an embodiment, the turret display device is attached to the housing of a riflescope. 
     In an embodiment, the turret display device is attached to the housing of a handheld rangefinder device. 
     In an embodiment, the turret display device is integrated with the handheld rangefinder device that communicates wirelessly to receive the turret position signals. 
     Accordingly, it is an objective of the present invention to provide devices and methods of rapidly calibrating a riflescope in the field wherein the user is shown the position of the riflescope turrets and how they should be adjusted, so the user can use the scope cross hairs as centered on the target. 
     Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawing figures. 
     OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES 
     Accordingly, the present invention includes the following advantages:
         a) To provide a turret display device used for rapidly zeroing a riflescope.   b) To provide turrets on a riflescope which provide turret position signals.   c) To display turret display cross hairs relative to a target icon.   d) When the turret display device receives a turret position signal, to move the turret display cross hairs to show the relative movement as indicated by the received turret position signal.   e) When a distance is processed by the turret display device, to move the turret display cross hairs to show an aiming point relative to a target icon based on the current zero of the riflescope.   f) To provide a method for calibrating a riflescope to a predetermined sight in distance.   g) To provide a method of using a turret display device to rapidly zero a riflescope at any distance.   h) To provide a digital display that indicates the position of the riflescope cross hairs by displaying turret display cross hairs.   i) To turret display device that works in combination with a relative target to determine the ballistic curve for a specific firing device and projectile, such as a specific rifle and ammunition.       

    
    
     
       DRAWING FIGURES 
       A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a block diagram of an improved rangefinder device; 
         FIG. 2  shows an exemplary handheld rangefinder device; 
         FIG. 3A  shows a riflescope; 
         FIG. 3B  shows a riflescope mounted on a rifle; 
         FIG. 3C  shows a military riflescope; 
         FIG. 3D  shows a military riflescope mounted on a military rifle; 
         FIG. 4  is a block diagram of a turret display device; 
         FIG. 5  shows an exemplary turret display device; 
         FIG. 6  shows a turret display device embodied in a high-resolution display of an exemplary smart phone; 
         FIG. 7  shows a turret display device integrated into the housing of a riflescope; 
         FIGS. 8A through 8C  illustrate a method of indicating the turret adjustment; 
         FIGS. 9A through 9D  illustrate various steps in the operation of the turret display device; 
         FIG. 10  shows the turret display device integrated into the housing of a handheld rangefinder device; 
         FIGS. 11A through 11F  illustrate various steps in the operation of the turret display device with a improved rangefinder; 
     
    
    
     The drawing figures do not limit the present invention to the specific embodiments disclosed and described herein. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the invention. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 REFERENCE NUMERALS IN DRAWINGS 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
            
               
                 10 
                 rangefinder device 
               
               
                 11 
                 iPhone (smartphone) 
               
               
                 12 
                 range sensor 
               
               
                 14 
                 tilt sensor 
               
               
                 16 
                 computing element 
               
               
                 18 
                 memory 
               
               
                 19 
                 wireless communication 
               
               
                 20 
                 housing 
               
               
                 30 
                 display 
               
               
                 31 
                 high-resolution display 
               
               
                 32 
                 inputs 
               
               
                 274 
                 elevation turret 
               
               
                 276 
                 windage turret 
               
               
                 290 
                 scope cross hairs 
               
               
                 300 
                 rifle 
               
               
                 302 
                 riflescope 
               
               
                 400 
                 turret display device 
               
               
                 490 
                 turret display cross hairs 
               
               
                 900 
                 cross hairs 
               
               
                 910 
                 distance indicator 
               
               
                 914 
                 horizontal distance indicator 
               
               
                 1000 
                 relative aiming point 
               
               
                 1002 
                 reference image 
               
               
                 1042 
                 sight in indicator 
               
               
                 1054 
                 deer reference image 
               
               
                 1100 
                 relative target 
               
               
                 1120 
                 relative target icon 
               
               
                 1130 
                 shot mark 
               
               
                 T 
                 target 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The following detailed description of the invention references the accompanying drawings that illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. The embodiments are intended to describe aspects of the invention in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments can be utilized and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. 
     Improved Rangefinder 
       FIG. 1  shows an improved rangefinder device  10 , which, in addition to the conventional components, comprises a wireless communications element  19  such as Near Field Communication (NFC), Bluetooth, or WiFi. The application of wireless communications  19  will be discussed below. 
     Improved Scopes 
     In improved riflescopes  302 , shown in  FIG. 3A  and  FIG. 3C , each of the turrets, elevation turret  274  and windage turret  276 , provides an electronic signal that indicates the physical position of the respective turret, i.e. the turret position signal. The signal can be provided by the turret or by a sensor. Examples of sensors including a spring that measures the pressure changes as the turret is turned; a optical sensor that detect movement of the turret lines or barcode incorporated on the edge of the turret; or a sensor which detects how deep the turret screw is in its respective channel. 
     Some embodiments of improved riflescopes  302  (as shown in  FIG. 3A  and  FIG. 3C ), in addition to the conventional components, comprise a wireless communications element such as Near Field Communication (NFC), Bluetooth, or WiFi. Each of the turrets provides its respective turret position signal to another device, such as an improved rangefinder (as shown in  FIG. 1  or  FIG. 10 ), a smart phone (e.g. iPhone 11 as shown in  FIG. 6 ), or an improved riflescope  302  with integrated turret display device  400  (as shown in  FIG. 7 ). 
     Rangefinder Device 
       FIG. 2  is a rear perspective view of an exemplary range finding device  10 , shown as a handheld laser rangefinder with a display  30  visible through an eyepiece. 
       FIG. 1  shows the internal components. The portable handheld housing  20  houses the range sensor  12 , tilt sensor  14 , computing element  16 , memory  18 , wireless communications  19 , and a display  30 . Other elements desired elements such as one or more inputs, eyepiece, lens, laser emitter, laser detector, etc. may also be found in the housing  20 . The handheld housing  20  enables the device  10  be easily and safely transported and maneuvered for convenient use in a variety of locations. 
     Generally a rangefinder device  10  generally includes a range sensor  12  for determining a first range to a target T, a tilt sensor  14  for determining an angle to the target T, a computing element  16  coupled with the range sensor  12  and the tilt sensor  14  for determining ballistic information relating to the target T based on the first range and the determined angle, a memory  18  for storing data such as ballistic information and a computer program to control the functionality of the device  10 , and a portable handheld housing  20  for housing the range sensor  12 , the tilt sensor  14 , the computing element  16 , the memory  18 , and other components. 
     Turret Display Device 
       FIG. 4  is a block diagram of a turret display device  400  comprising: a computing element  16 , a memory  18 , wireless communications  19 , a display  30 , and inputs  32 . 
     A computer program preferably controls input and operation of the turret display device  400 . The computer program includes at least one code segment stored in or on a computer-readable medium residing on or accessible by the turret display device  400  for instructing the computing element  16 , display  30 , and any other related components to operate in the manner described herein. The computer program is preferably stored within the memory  18  and comprises an ordered listing of executable instructions for implementing logical functions in the turret display device  400 . However, the computer program may comprise programs and methods for implementing functions in the turret display device  400  which are not an ordered listing, such as hard-wired electronic components, programmable logic such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application specific integrated circuits, conventional methods for controlling the operation of electrical or other computing devices, etc. 
     Similarly, the computer program may be embodied in any computer-readable medium for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device, such as a computer-based system, processor-containing system, or other system that can fetch the instructions from the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device, and execute the instructions. 
     The turret display device  400  and computer programs described herein are merely examples of a device and programs that may be used to implement the present invention and may be replaced with other devices and programs without departing from the scope of the present invention. 
     Turret Display 
       FIG. 5  shows an exemplary turret display device  400  having a turret display  30  and inputs  32 . Elements of the display  30 , include turret display cross hairs  490 , distance indicator  910 , sight in indicator  1042 , and relative target icon  1120 . The turret display cross hairs  490  move dynamically as controlled by inputs  32  or wireless communications  19 . The distance indicator  910  shows a distance (e.g. in yards or meters). The sight in indicator  1042  is selectively activated to in indicate that the distance shown in the distance indicator  910  is a current sight in distance. The relative target icon  1120  is fixed in the display and provides a relative reference for the turret display cross hairs  490 . 
     Turret displays  30  may be embodied in various devices, such as an improved rangefinder (as shown in  FIG. 10 ), a smart phone (e.g. iPhone 11, as shown in  FIG. 6 ), or an improved riflescope  302  with integrated turret display device  400  (as shown in  FIG. 7 ). 
     The operation of the turret display device  400  and its display  30  will be discussed below. 
     Turret Display Device in a Smart Phone or Tablet 
       FIG. 6  shows a turret display device  400  embodied in a high-resolution display  31  of an exemplary smart phone or tablet, such as iPhone 11. These embodiments have a display  30 , which is a high-resolution display  31 . Inputs can be virtual buttons implemented in a touch screen of a high-resolution display  31 . The computing element  16 , memory  18 , wireless communications  19  ( FIG. 4 ) may be the CPU, memory, and wireless communications of the smart phone or tablet. 
     Turret Display Device Integrated in a Riflescope Housing 
       FIG. 7  shows a turret display device  400  integrated in a housing of an improved riflescope  302 . The respective turret position signals may be communicated to the turret display device  400  via wires in the housing, or via the wireless communication  19 , from the respective turrets, elevation turret  274  and windage turret  276 . The elements of the turret display device  400  are the same as described in reference to  FIG. 5 . 
     Operation of the Turret Display Device in Conjunction with the Rapid Zero Riflescope 
     Regardless of the embodiment, i.e. an improved rangefinder (as shown in  FIG. 10 ), a smart phone (e.g. iPhone 11, as shown in  FIG. 6 ), or an improved riflescope  302  with integrated turret display device  400  (as shown in  FIG. 7 ), the basic operation of the a turret display device  400  is the same. 
     Calibration of the Rapid Zero Riflescope 
       FIGS. 8A through 8C  illustrate a method of indicating the turret adjustment to rapidly zero an improved riflescope  302  during calibration.  FIG. 8A  shows aiming the scope cross hairs  290  at a target T, shown as a paper target with our relative target markings, i.e. a relative target  1100 . In this example, the sight in distance is 100 yards. The user aligns the scope cross hairs  290  of the improved riflescope  302  at the center of target, e.g. the relative target  1100 , while at a distance of 100 yards from the target.  FIG. 8B  shows that a shot mark  1130 , showing where the shot hit the target. In calibration mode on the turret display device  400 , the user sets the sight in distance to 100 yards, and then adjusts the turret display cross hairs  490  visually match the location on the relative target icon  1120  to the location of the shot mark  1130  on the relative target  1100 . The scope and the display are now synchronized and exits calibration mode. The user then turns the respective turrets, elevation turret  274  and windage turret  276 , until the turret display cross hairs  490  are centered on the relative target icon  1120 . 
     A novel features of this invention is that as the respective turrets are manually turned, their respective positions are communicated via their respective turret position signals to the turret display device  400  so that the turret display cross hairs  490  move in sync with any movement of either turret. This allows the user to rapidly zero the scope at anytime using the turret display device  400 . 
     Using the Rapid Zero Riflescope 
       FIGS. 9A through 9D  illustrate a method of indicating the turret adjustment to rapidly zero an improved riflescope  302  for use at any distance. 
       FIG. 9A  shows the turret display device  400 , after it has been calibrated and when it has received a current distance of 332 yards. The distance can be wirelessly communicated from an improved rangefinder, or can be input using one or more inputs  32  on the turret display device  400 . In this example, the turret display cross hairs  490  automatically show where to aim relative to the relative target icon  1120 .  FIG. 9B  shows where to aim the now calibrated riflescope  302  by placing the scope cross hairs  290  in a position that visually matches the relative position on the target, shown as relative target  1100 . 
     If the user has time, they may rapidly zero the scope for the new distance, in this case 332 yards, by turning the respective turrets, elevation turret  274  and windage turret  276 , until the turret display cross hairs  490  are centered on the relative target icon  1120  as shown in  FIG. 9C . The improved riflescope  302  is now zeroed at 332 yards and user can aim using the scope cross hairs  290  centered on the target. 
     A novel features of this invention is that as the respective turrets are manually turned, their respective positions are communicated via their respective turret position signals to the turret display device  400  so that the turret display cross hairs  490  move in sync with any movement of either turret. This allows the user to rapidly zero the scope at anytime to any distance using the turret display device  400 . This has the advantage of giving the user greater confidence and accuracy by being about to rapidly adjust the turrets so that the scope cross hairs  290  can always be centered on the target to aim the shot. 
     Turret Display Device Integrated in a Riflescope Housing 
       FIG. 10  shows a turret display device  400  integrated in a housing of an improved handheld rangefinder device  10 . The respective turret position signals may be communicated to the turret display device  400  via the wireless communication  19 , from the respective turrets, elevation turret  274  and windage turret  276 , in the improved riflescope  302 . The elements of the turret display device  400  are the same as described in reference to  FIG. 5 . 
     In this embodiment, the distance can be communicated via wires or via wireless communications from the rangefinder&#39;s computing element to the turret display device  400 . 
     The user would range the target and then look at the turret display device  400  to zero the riflescope  302  by turning the elevation turret  274  until the display cross hairs  490  are centered. 
     Using the Rapid Zero Riflescope with a Relative Aiming Point Rangefinder 
       FIGS. 11A through 11F  illustrate use the turret display device  400  in conjunction with a Relative Aiming Point Rangefinder. 
       FIG. 11A  shows a display  30  of a Relative Aiming Point Rangefinder, with an exemplary target T located at a distance of 362 yards, as shown by the horizontal distance indicator  914 . A relative aiming point  1000  is displayed relative to a reference image  1002 , in this case shown as a deer reference image  1054 . 
       FIG. 11B  shows where to aim the calibrated riflescope  302  by placing the scope cross hairs  290  in a position that visually matches the relative aiming point  1000  (in  FIG. 11A ). In this example the riflescope  302  has been calibrated at a sight in distance of 100 yards. 
       FIG. 11C  shows the turret display device  400 , when it has received a current distance of 362 yards. 
     If the user has time, they may rapidly zero the scope for the new distance, in this case 362 yards, by turning the respective turrets, elevation turret  274  and windage turret  276 , until the turret display cross hairs  490  are centered on the relative target icon  1120  as shown in  FIG. 11E . The improved riflescope  302  is now zeroed at 362 yards and user can aim using the scope cross hairs  290  centered on the target T. 
     In an embodiment of an improved Relative Aiming Point Rangefinder, the rangefinder also receives turret position signals and adjusts the relative aiming point  1000  ( FIG. 11D ) in concert with the changes shown in  FIG. 11E . The coordinated movement is illustrated with the arrows shown in both  FIG. 11D  and  FIG. 11E . The arrows are illustrative of the movement and are not a display element of either display. 
       FIG. 11F  illustrates that the user may aim at the target T simply by placing the scope cross hairs  290  where they want to hit the target T. 
     Advantages 
     Faster 
     The rapid zero technology provides the user with visual indications that do not require mathematical calculations in order to make adjustments to an improved riflescope&#39;s turrets. The user immediate sees an image in the turret display device, which is then replicated with the scope on the firing device. In other words, the user stays “right brained” allowing for rapid and accurate action. 
     Accurate 
     The rapid zero technology provides an accurate aiming point zeroed to a predetermined sight in distance. 
     Further, the user can rapidly zero the scope cross hairs based on any ranged distance. 
     Effective 
     The rapid zero technology provides an accurate aiming point that can the user can intuitively match. 
     Confidence 
     The rapid zero technology gives the user confidence that their aiming point is accurate. 
     The rapid zero technology gives the user confidence that the target will be hit. 
     This increased confidence will improve the user&#39;s performance and satisfaction. 
     Adjustable 
     The embodiments of these devices can be adjusted to be consistent with an individual user and associated firing device, for example the specific ammunition and scopes. 
     Lightweight 
     The enhanced features of the rapid zero technology do not add weight to the convention device. 
     Easy to Transport and Use 
     Devices containing the rapid zero technology are easy to transport and use. 
     CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATION, AND SCOPE 
     Although the invention has been described with reference to the preferred embodiments illustrated in the attached drawings, it is noted that equivalents may be employed and substitutions made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as recited in the claims. 
     Accordingly, the reader will see that the novel turret display devices, improved riflescopes, and improved rangefinder devices, and methods provide greater accuracy, effectiveness, and safety. 
     While the above descriptions contain several specifics these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as examples of some of the preferred embodiments thereof. Many other variations are possible. For example, the display can be manufactured in different ways and/or in different shapes to increase precision, reduce material, or simplify manufacturing. Further communications could be wired or wireless with various short range wireless communications technologies. The variations could be used without departing from the scope and spirit of the novel features of the present invention. 
     Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined not by the illustrated embodiments, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.