US010240898B2

(12) United
Crispin
States Patent ( 10) Patent No.: US 10 ,240,898 B2
(45 ) Date of Patent: Mar. 26 , 2019
(54 ) REFLEX SIGHT WITH MULTIPLE AIMING (56 ) References Cited
MARKS
U .S . PATENT DOCUMENTS
(71) Applicant: Leupold & Stevens, Inc., Beaverton , 4,764 ,011 A * 8/1988 Goldstein ................. F41G 1/ 30
OR (US ) 356 / 251
(72 ) Inventor : Quint Dean Crispin , Beaverton , OR 5,205 ,044 A * 4/1993 DePaoli ............... GO2B 23 /105
42 /132
(US) 2006 /0107581 A1 * 5/2006 Ball ............ F416 1/01
42 / 130
( 73 ) Assignee : LEUPOLD & STEVENS , INC ., 2006 /0162226 A1 * 7 /2006 Tai .................... F41G 1 /30
Beaverton , OR (US) 42 / 132
2011/0283589 A1* 11/ 2011 Matthews ....... ....... F41A 33 /00
( * ) Notice : Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this 42/113
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 2012 /0110887 Al * 5/2012 Reimer . . . . . . . . . . . F41G 1 /30
42 /132
U . S .C . 154 (b ) by 0 days . 2013/0145666 A1* 6/2013 Eriksson .... F416 1/ 30
42 / 1 . 06
(21) Appl. No.: 15/802,053 * cited by examiner
(22 ) Filed : Nov. 2, 2017 Primary Examiner — Bret Hayes
(65 ) Prior Publication Data (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Bennet K . Langlotz ;
Langlotz Patent & Trademark Works, LLC
US 2018 /0128574 A1 May 10, 2018
(57) ABSTRACT
Related U .S . Application Data A reflex sight with multiple aiming marks has a body having
a forward end extending in forward direction and an
(60 ) Provisional application No. 62/419 ,369, filed on Nov. opposed rearward end extending in a rearward direction , a
8 , 2016 . first optical element having a first concave surface facing in
the rearward direction , the first concave surface having a
(51) Int. CI. first focal point, a second optical element having a second
F41G 1/30 ( 2006 .01 ) concave surface facing in the rearward direction , the second
GO2B 23 / 10 ( 2006 .01) concave surface having a second focal point , a first emitter
F41G 1/34 (2006 .01) proximate the first focal point and spaced apart from the
(52) U . S . CI. second focal point, a second emitter proximate the second
focal point and spaced apart from the first focal point, and
CPC ............... F41G 1/ 30 ( 2013 .01 ); F41G 12345 the first optical element being forward of the second optical
(2013.01 ); G02B 23/ 105 (2013 .01 ) element. The first and second emitters may both be rearward
(58 ) Field of Classification Search of the first and second optical elements . The second emitter
CPC .......... F41G 1/ 30 ; F41G 1/ 345 ; GO2B 23 / 105 may be spaced apart rearwardly from the first emitter.
USPC ................ ...... 42 /113
See application file for complete search history . 31 Claims, 11 Drawing Sheets

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U . S . Patent Mar. 26 , 2019 Sheet 4 of 11 US 10 ,240 ,898 B2

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U . S . Patent Mar. 26 , 2019 Sheet 6 of 11 US 10 ,240 ,898 B2

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U.S. Patent
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U . S . Patent Mar. 26 , 2019 Sheet 9 of 11 US 10 ,240,898 B2

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U . S . Patent Mar. 26 , 2019 Sheet 11 of 11 US 10 ,240,898 B2

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 US 10 , 240 ,898 B2
REFLEX SIGHT WITH MULTIPLE AIMING because of insufficientmounting area for two reflex sights on
MARKS many firearms, or an excessive increase in weight resulting
from the use of two sights .
CROSS -REFERENCE TO RELATED Therefore , a need exists for a new and improved reflex
APPLICATION 5 sight that provides for multiple spaced -apart aiming marks,
thereby enabling the user to select from among the aiming
This application claims the benefit of U .S . Provisional marks to more accurately align the target with the projectile
Patent Application No. 62/419, 369 filed on Nov. 8 , 2016 , weapon ' s point of impact based on the ammunition type or
entitled “ REFLEX SIGHT WITH MULTIPLE AIMING the range to target. In this regard , the various embodiments
MARKS ,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its 10 of the present invention substantially fulfill at least someof
entirety for all that is taught and disclosed therein . these needs . In this respect, the reflex sight system according
to the present invention substantially departs from the con
FIELD OF THE INVENTION ventional concepts and designs of the prior art, and in doing
so provides an apparatus primarily developed for the pur
The present invention relates to sighting systems for 15 pose of enabling the user to select from among the aiming
projectile weapons and, more particularly, to a reflex sight marks to more accurately align the target with the projectile
system with multiple aiming marks for aiming under mul- weapon 's point of impact based on the ammunition type or
tiple different shooting situations. the range to target.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 20 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Conventional reflex sights are optical aiming sights for The present invention provides an improved reflex sight
projectile weapons — such as rifles , pistols, and crossbows, with multiple aiming marks, and overcomes the above
for example that reflect an aiming mark on a reflector for mentioned disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior art. As
superimposition on a distant target. Typically , the reflector is 25 such , the general purpose of the present invention , which
spherical and partially reflective or reflective of a specific will be described subsequently in greater detail, is to provide
wavelength of light. Some reflex sights use a collimating an improved reflex sight with multiple aiming marks that has
lens and a flat reflector, rather than a spherical reflector. In all the advantages of the prior art mentioned above .
either approach , the reflected light reaches the user ' s eye as To attain this , the preferred embodiment of the present
collimated light, so that the user will see an image of the 30 invention essentially comprises a body having a forward end
aiming mark superimposed in the sight's field of view in extending in forward direction and an opposed rearward end
focus at all distances. The sight is affixed to the weapon and extending in a rearward direction , a first optical element
aimed so that the aiming mark coincides with a point of having a first concave surface facing in the rearward direc
impact of a projectile at a predetermined sighted - in range , tion , the first concave surface having a first focal point, a
when fired or launched from the weapon . 35 second optical element having a second concave surface
Since the image of the aiming mark produced by the reflex facing in the rearward direction , the second concave surface
sight is made up of collimated light aligned with the weapon , having a second focal point, a first emitter proximate the first
the aiming feature appears to be parallax free . That is , the focal point and spaced apart from the second focal point, a
user can look through the reflector from any vantage point second emitter proximate the second focal point and spaced
and the aiming feature will appear stationary on the target so 40 apart from the first focal point, and the first optical element
long as the target is viewed through the reflector. being forward of the second optical element. The first and
Conventional reflex sights offer only a single aiming second emitters may both be rearward of the first and second
feature that is difficult to adjust ( e .g ., when sighting- in ) optical elements. The second emitter may be spaced apart
because the aim is so sensitive to the position of the rearwardly from the first emitter. There are , of course ,
illumination source for the aiming mark and because it is 45 additional features of the invention that will be described
challenging to implement precise mechanical adjustment hereinafter and which will form the subject matter of the
devices in the miniature platform of most reflex sights. All claims attached .
projectile weapons require a different point of aim for There has thus been outlined , rather broadly , the more
shooting targets located at different ranges. Also , some important features of the invention in order that the detailed
projectile weapons can shoot different types of ammunition , 50 description thereof that follows may be better understood
such as subsonic or supersonic ammunition , that result in and in order that the present contribution to the art may be
different points of impact. better appreciated .
Thus, although conventional sights are generally suitable
for their intended purpose, they offer only a single aiming BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
feature that can be adjusted to align with one type of 55
ammunition in a given firearm . However ,most firearms can FIG . 1 is a top isometric view of the current embodiment
shoot different types of ammunition that result in different of the reflex sight with multiple aiming marks constructed in
points of impact because of different muzzle velocities . accordance with the principles of the present invention
Conventional sights are also limited to sighting in only one having two light sources and two curved reflector lenses .
distance for one projectile , which could adversely affect 60 FIG . 2 is a top sectional isometric view of the current
accuracy at distances that dramatically differ from the embodiment of the reflex sight with multiple aiming marks
sighted in distance . Furthermore , a dual barrel/caliber fire - of FIG . 1 .
arm such as a double rifle or a rifle /shotgun combination FIG . 3 is a side view of the current embodiment of the
firearm requires two conventional sights , one for each barrel. reflex sight with multiple aiming marks of FIG . 1 .
A conventional approach using two singular reflex or “ red 65 FIG . 4 is a side view of a first alternative embodiment of
dot” sights in series can be used in some of these circum - the reflex sight with multiple aiming marks having two light
stances,but this solution is impractical in many applications sources and two curved reflector lenses.
 US 10 ,240 ,898 B2
FIG . 5 is a side view of a second alternative embodiment 102 . The first optical element 104 is curved and has a
of the reflex sight with multiple aiming marks having two partially - reflective surface 106 forming a concave reflector /
light sources, two flat reflectors , and two collimating lenses. first concave surface facing in the rearward direction and
FIG . 6 is a side view of a third alternative embodiment of having a first focal point. Also mounted on the body 102 , in
the reflex sight with multiple aiming marks having two light 5 an upright position rearward of the first optical element 104 ,
sources and two curved reflector lenses . is a second optical element 112 formed from a section of a
FIG . 7 is a side view of a fourth alternative embodiment second lens or a second section of the same lens as first
of the reflex sight with multiple aiming marks having two optical element 104 and having a spherically -curved second
light sources and two curved reflector lenses. partially -reflective surface 114 forming a concave reflector/
FIG . 8 is a side view of a fifth alternative embodiment of 10 second concave surface facing in the rearward direction and
the reflex sight with multiple aiming marks having two light having a second focal point. The term " partially -reflective
sources, two flat reflectors , and two collimating lenses. surface” refers to a surface having a desired level of reflec
FIG . 9 is a side view of a sixth alternative embodiment of tivity over a specified range of wavelengths of light.
the reflex sight with multiple aiming marks having two light A first light source /emitter 108 , such as a light emitting
sources, two flat reflectors, and two collimating lenses. 15 diode (LED ) masked to form a fine point source of illumi
FIG . 10 is a side view of a seventh alternative embodi - nation , is attached on the body 102 in association with the
ment of the reflex sightwith multiple aiming marks having first optical element 104 at/proximate the first focal point of
two light sources and a single curved reflector lens. the concave reflector of the first partially - reflective surface
FIG . 11 is an example of a user 's view of aiming marks 106 and rearward of the second optical element 112 , such
generated by any of the embodiments of the reflex sight with 20 that the first light source 108 is spaced apart from the second
multiple aiming marks of FIGS . 1 - 10 . focal point. Partially -reflective surface 106 is preferably
The same reference numerals refer to the same parts made of a dichroic reflection coating or layers on the rear
throughout the various figures. surface of first optical element 104 . The dichroic reflecting
coating selectively reflects the wavelength of the LED of
DESCRIPTION OF THE CURRENT 25 first light source 108 to project an image of the first light
EMBODIMENT source / emitter 108 in a rearward direction as collimated
light 110 along an optical path extending between the
An embodiment of the reflex sight with multiple aiming forward end and the rearward end, and through both the first
marks of the present invention is shown and generally and second optical elements 104 , 112 .However, the dichroic
designated by the reference numeral 100 . 30 reflecting coating is generally transmissive to other wave
The illustrated figures are schematic , and not necessarily lengths of visible light so that a user views a field of view
to scale or with all optical geometries accurately rendered . 904 ( FIG . 11 ) including a target through the first optical
Some curves and contours are exaggerated for illustrative element 104 . The partially -reflective surface 106 is spheri
purposes, and other characteristics are omitted for simplic - cally curved so that light emitted from the first light source
ity . For instance , where rays are illustrated as passing 35 108 is reflected rearward toward a user ' s eye 130 by the
through a non -magnifying lens with a base curve that does partially -reflective surface 106 as collimated light 110 , such
not affect the subject viewed through it, they may be shown that a user looking through the optical element 104 perceives
as passing straight through unaffected , when in actuality the reflected light as an image of the first light source / emitter
there will be offsetting deviations at each surface . 108 forming a first luminous aiming mark 900 (FIG . 11 )
FIGS . 1 -3 illustrate the improved reflex sight with mul- 40 superimposed on , and in focus with , targets located at any
tiple aiming marks 100 of the present invention . More distance . In other words, the first luminous aiming mark 900
particularly , the reflex sight with multiple aiming marks 100 is imaged at infinity focus .
has a housing 136 having a front 138 , rear 140 , top 142, A second light source 116 , such as an LED , is attached on
bottom 144 , and aperture 146 . The aperture 146 extends the body 102 spaced apart rearwardly from the first light
from the front 138 to the rear 140 of the housing 136 and 45 source 108 in association with the second optical element
defines a sight line axis 906 extending from a target (not 112 at/proximate the second focal point of the concave
shown ) to a viewer 's eye 130 . The top 142 of the housing reflector of the second partially -reflective surface 114 and
136 is an arch to accommodate a first optical element 104 spaced apart from the first focal point. Thus, the first light
and a second optical element 112 . The housing 136 includes source / emitter 108 and second light source / emitter 116 are
a body 102 having a forward end extending in a forward 50 both rearward of the first optical element 104 and second
direction and an opposed rearward end extending in a optical element 112. The radiuses of curvature of the first
rearward direction that serves as a support for optical and second partially -reflective surfaces 106 , 114 may be the
elements 104 , 112 , electronics , and other components sub - same or slightly different . Light emitted from the second
sequently described . In the current embodiment, each optical light source 116 is reflected rearward toward the user 's eye
element 104 , 112 is a lens with a base curve having limited 55 130 by the partially -reflective surface 114 as collimated light
distortive effect on images viewed through the lenses . The 118 , so that a user looking through the second optical
optical elements 104 , 112 act as a first transmissive optical element 112 perceives the reflected light as an image of the
element and a second transmissive element sequentially second light source / emitter 116 forming a second luminous
interposed along the sight line axis 906 to transmit an image aiming mark 902 ( FIG . 11 ) superimposed on , and in focus
of the target to a viewer ' s eye 130 . A selector switch 148 can 60 with , a target at any distance ( infinity focus). Depending
be attached to the housing 136 at any suitable location such upon the position of selector switch 148, just first luminous
that the user can select which of the light sources 108 , 116 aiming mark 900 , just second luminous aiming mark 902,or
is illuminated for viewing through the rear 140 of aperture both luminous aiming marks 900 , 902 are visible .
146 . The first light source 108 and the second light source 116
Mounted on the body 102 is a first primarily - transparent 65 preferably output/emit radiation in the form of visible light
optical element 104 , formed from a section of a lens, at different wavelengths. The first light source emits radia
mounted in an upright position on a forward portion of body tion at a first wavelength , and the second light source emits
 US 10 , 240,898 B2
radiation at a different second wavelength . The first and or vertically via the windage screw 120 and/or an elevation
second partially -reflective concave surfaces 106 , 114 have screw (not shown ) while the second light source 116 remains
dichroic coatings such that the first concave surface has a in place , so that only the first luminous aiming mark position
first reflective characteristic, and the second concave surface changes, or vice versa .
has a different second reflective characteristic . In the current 5 The first light source 108 and the second light source 116
embodiment, the first characteristic is relatively greater are positioned on the body 102 relative to the first optical
reflectivity of the first wavelength than the second wave element 104 and the second optical element 112 so that the
length , and the second characteristic is relatively greater luminous aiming marks appear spaced apart. Thus , the
reflectivity of the second wavelength than the first wave second optical element 112 is interposed between the first
length . Preferably, the first and second partially selective 10 optical element 104 and the first light source / emitter 108 ,
surfaces 106 , 114 are selectively reflective to the wave such that emissions from the first light source 108 are
lengths of the light emitted by the respective first and second
light sources 108 , 116 , while being highly transmissive of transmitted
reflecting
through the second optical element 112 before
off the first partially -reflective surface 106 , and a
other wavelengths of visible light. So , for example, colli
mated light reflected rearwardly by first partially -reflective 15 reflected image from the first partially - reflective surface 106
surface 106 will pass through second partially -reflective is transmitted through the second optical element 112 before
surface 114 and to the user ' s eye 130 . Alternatively, the first reaching a viewer 's eye 130 rearward of the reflex sightwith
and second light sources 108, 116 could output light at the multiple aiming marks 100. The first partially -reflective
same wavelength , in which case the second partially -reflec surface 106 may have a radius of curvature and focal length
tive surface 114 must be partially reflective of the wave - 20 that is the same or slightly different from the radius of
length ( e. g ., 40 % -60 % transmissive , or preferably approxi curvature and focal length of the second partially -reflective
mately 50 % transmissive ), to allow light from first light surface 114 , allowing the optical elements 104, 112 and light
source 108 reflected rearwardly by first partially -reflective sources 108 , 116 to be arranged on body 102 in different
surface 106 to pass therethrough , albeit with its intensity ways , or to achieve different spacing between the luminous
attenuated . Since the second light source 116 is spaced apart 25 aiming marks 900 , 902 .
from first light source 108 , and therefore located away from FIG . 4 illustrates a first alternative embodiment of the
the focal point of the first partially -reflective surface 106 , improved reflex sight with multiple aimingmarks 200 of the
light from the second light source 116 that passes through present invention . More particularly, the reflex sight with
the partially -reflective surface 114 is not reflected by the first multiple aiming marks 200 includes a body 202, a first
partially -reflective surface 106 as collimated light. 30 optical element 204 , a first partially -reflective surface 206 , a
When a user looks along a viewing path through both the first light source 208 , a second optical element 212 , a second
first and second optical elements 104 and 112 toward a partially -reflective surface 214 , a second light source 216 ,
target, a user perceives distinct first and second luminous and windage screws 220 , 222 . In this embodiment, the first
aiming marks 900 , 902 (FIG . 11 ) spaced apart in the field of light source 208 is placed rearward of the first optical
view 904 , superimposed on , and in focus with , the target at 35 element 204 . The second optical element 212 is placed
any distance (infinity focus ). If the first and second light rearward of the first light source 208 , and the second light
sources 108 , 116 are different colors , then the colors of the source 216 is placed rearward of the second optical element
resulting aimingmarks 900 , 902 may be selected to identify 212 . As with the embodiment discussed above with respect
one as the primary aiming mark and the other as a secondary to FIG . 1 , the first and second optical elements 204, 212 are
aiming mark . The secondary aiming mark may be used for 40 curved with generally spherical curvature , and the first light
hold -over aiming, when shooting at targets beyond the source 208 and the second light source 216 are positioned at
sighted -in range of the first aiming mark . Alternatively ,more a focal point of the respective first and second partially
than two aiming marks could be generated using light reflective surfaces 206 , 214 , such that light reflected rear
sources having more than one point source of light, such that ward by the first and second partially -reflective surfaces 206 ,
each reflector generates images of multiple spaced -apart 45 214 is collimated light 210 , 218 . In this embodiment, the
aiming marks. When more than two aiming marks are radiuses of curvature of the first and second partially
generated , the multiple aiming marks may be spaced hori- reflective surfaces 206 , 214 may be the same or slightly
zontally to provide windage aiming or for other purposes . different .
Each of the first light source 108 and the second light As in the embodiment of FIG . 1 , the first light source 208
source 116 may be movably mounted on body 102 and 50 and the second light source 216 preferably output light at
adjusted by a respective first and second adjustment facility / different wavelengths ; and the first and second partially
windage screw 120 , 122 and/ or an elevation screw (not reflective surfaces 206 , 214 have dichroic coatings selec
shown), as described for example in U . S . Pat. No. 9,423,212 tively reflective to the wavelengths of the light emitted by
of Campean , which is incorporated herein by reference . the respective first and second light sources 208 , 216 , while
Independent screw adjuster mechanisms allow the positions 55 being highly transmissive of other wavelengths of visible
of first and second light sources 108 , 116 to be adjusted light. So , for example, collimated light 210 reflected rear
relative to partially -reflective surfaces 106 , 114 indepen - wardly by first partially -reflective surface 206 will pass
dently of each other to thereby adjust the positions of the through second partially -reflective surface 214 and to the
luminous aiming marks 900 , 902 relative to each other and user 's eye 230 . Alternatively, the first and second light
relative to a target (not shown ) in the field of view 904 . Thus, 60 sources 208 , 216 could output light at the same wavelength ,
the first adjustment facility 120 is adapted to move the in which case the second partially -reflective surface 214
apparent image 900 of the first light source/ emitter 108 as must be partially reflective of the wavelength ( e. g ., 40 %
reflected in the first partially -reflective surface 106 , and the 60 % transmissive , or preferably approximately 50 % trans
second adjustment facility 122 is adapted to move the missive ), to allow some light from first light source 208 to
apparent image 902 of the second light source/emitter 116 as 65 pass therethrough and be reflected rearwardly toward the
reflected in the second partially - reflective surface 114. For user 's eye 230 by first partially -reflective surface 206 , albeit
example , the first light source 108 may be moved laterally with its intensity attenuated .
 US 10 ,240 ,898 B2
Although body 202 is shown as flat in FIG . 4 , body 202 embodiment discussed above with respect to FIG . 1 , the first
is not so limited and may take any shape for a reflex sight and second partially -reflective surfaces 406 , 414 are curved
including mounting the first light source 208 and the second to form spherical reflectors , and the first and second light
light source 216 on different surfaces and planes of the reflex sources 408 , 416 are positioned at focal points of the
sight. 5 respective first and second partially -reflective surfaces 406 ,
FIG . 5 illustrates a second alternative embodiment of the 414 .
improved reflex sight with multiple aiming marks 300 of the Light from the first light source 408 may be the same or
present invention . More particularly , the reflex sight with a different wavelength of light from the second light source
multiple aiming marks 300 includes a body 302 supporting 416 . If the wavelengths of light emitted by the first and
a first flat optical element 304 having a first partially - 10 second light sources 408 , 416 are different, the dichroic
reflective surface 306 , a first light source 308, a second flat coating or layer of the first partially -reflective surface 406
optical element 312 having a second partially -reflective primarily reflects the wavelength of light from the first light
surface 314 , and a second light source 316 . Optical elements source 408 as collimated light 410 and the dichroic coating
304 , 312 may be flat glass plates. The reflex sight with or layer of the partially -reflective surface 414 primarily
multiple aiming marks 300 includes a first collimating lens 15 reflects the wavelength of light from the second light source
324 that collimates the light emitted from the first light 416 as collimated light 418 . Light that is not reflected passes
source 308 before the light reaches and is reflected rear - through the first and/or second optical elements 404 , 412 .
wardly by the first ( flat ) partially - reflective surface 306 , and If the first and second light sources 408 , 416 emit light of
a second collimating lens 326 that collimates light from the the same wavelength , the dichroic coatings or layers of the
second light source 316 before the light reaches and is 20 first and second partially -reflective surfaces 406 , 414 will
reflected rearwardly by the second ( flat) partially -reflective both reflect the light from the first light source 408 . (Light
surface 314 . from the first light source 408 may not reach the first
The first and second partially -reflective surfaces 306 , 314 partially -reflective surface 406 because it may be occluded
reflect the respective collimated light 310 , 318 rearwardly by second partially -reflective surface 414 . ) Second partially
toward a user' s eye 330. A user perceives the reflected light 25 reflective surface 414 will block some of the light from first
310 , 318 as respective first and second luminous aiming light source 408 and prevent it from reaching the first
marks 900 , 902 (FIG . 11 ) , spaced apart and superimposed partially -reflective surface 406 , which will reduce the
on , and in focus with , targets in the field of view 904 located brightness of the aiming mark generated by the reflection
at any distance ( infinity focus) . The positions of the first and from the first partially - reflective surface 406 .
second light sources 308, 316 can be independently adjusted 30 However, because the first light source 408 is not posi
via windage screws 320 , 322, respectively, and/or elevation tioned at the focal point of second partially -reflective surface
screws (not shown ), to adjust the spacing between the first 414 , the portion of the light from first light source 408 that
and second luminous aiming marks 900 , 902 during sight is reflected by the second partially -reflective surface 414
ing- in or otherwise . As in the embodiment of FIG . 1 , the first will not be collimated and will not form an extra image.
light source 308 and the second light source 316 may output 35 In the embodiment shown in FIG . 6 , first light source 408
light at different wavelengths; and the first and second is positioned on a first plane 432 and second light source 416
partially -reflective surfaces 306 , 314 have dichroic coatings is positioned on a second plane 434 spaced below the first
selectively reflective to the wavelengths of the light emitted plane 432 . This prevents the second light source 416 from
by the respective first and second light sources 308 , 316 , blocking the light from the first light source 408. Also , the
while being highly transmissive of other wavelengths of 40 radius of curvature of the second optical element 412 is
visible light. So , for example , collimated light 310 reflected significantly smaller than the radius of curvature of the first
rearwardly by the first partially -reflective surface 306 will optical element 404 , so the focal point of the spherical
pass through the second partially -reflective surface 314 and reflector of the second partially -reflective surface 414 and ,
to a user 's eye 330 . thus, the second light source 416 , are closer than i. e.,
Although the light sources 308 , 316 are illustrated facing 45 forward of) the first light source 408 located at the focal
upwards with light emitting upward toward collimating point of the first partially -reflective surface 406 .
lenses 324 , 326 , the first and second light sources 308 , 316 , Further, since the second optical element 412 is smaller
first and second collimating lenses 324 , 326 and first and than the first optical element 404 , light reflected from each
second optical elements 304, 312may be positioned in other of the first and second optical elements 404 , 412 reaches the
arrangements that allow the collimated light 310 , 318 to 50 user ' s eye 430 , allowing the user to perceive both the first
reflect toward the user ' s eye 330. and second luminous aiming marks 900 , 902 ( FIG . 11 )
FIG . 6 illustrates a third alternative embodiment of the simultaneously. This is the case even if the second partially
improved reflex sight with multiple aiming marks 400 of the reflective surface 414 blocks a portion of light from the first
present invention . More particularly , the reflex sight with light source 408 from reaching the first partially - reflective
multiple aiming marks 400 includes a body 402 supporting 55 surface 406 — for example , if the first and second light
a first curved optical element 404 bearing a first partially sources 408 , 416 are of the same wavelength and the first
reflective surface 406 , a first light source 408 , a second and second partially - reflective surfaces 406 , 414 are com
curved optical element 412 bearing a second partially pletely reflective of that wavelength . Furthermore , if the
reflective surface 414 , and a second light source 416 . In this user 's eye is above the uppermost portion of second optical
embodiment, the second optical element 412 is placed 60 element 412 , the user will be unable to perceive collimated
rearward of the first optical element 404 , and the first and light 418 of second light source 416 and will only perceive
second light sources 408 and 416 are placed rearward of the the collimated light 410 of first light source 408 . Thus, the
second optical element 412 , with the first light source 408 user can selectively switch perception of light source 416 by
being placed rearward of the second light source 416 . Thus, a change of eye position .
the second optical element 412 and the second light source / 65 FIG . 7 illustrates a fourth alternative embodiment of the
emitter 416 are interposed between the first optical element improved reflex sight with multiple aiming marks 500 of the
404 and the first light source / emitter 408 . As with the present invention .More particularly , unlike the embodiment
 US 10,240 ,898 B2
10
of FIG . 6 , the second curved optical element 512 in this In the embodiment shown in FIG . 8 , first light source 608
embodiment is of an approximately equal height and /or is positioned on a first plane 632 and second light source 616
equal size to the first curved optical element 504 . Also , as in is positioned on a second plane 634 spaced below the first
the embodiment of FIG . 6 , the radius of curvature of the plane 632 . This prevents the second light source 616 from
second optical element512 is significantly smaller than the 5 blocking the light from the first light source 608.
radius of curvature of the first optical element 504 , so the FIG . 9 illustrates a sixth alternative embodiment of the
focal point of the spherical reflector of the second partially improved reflex sight with multiple aiming marks 700 of the
reflective surface 514 and , thus, the second light source 516 , present invention. More particularly, the reflex sight with
are closer than (i.e ., forward of) the first light source 508 multiple aiming marks 700 is like reflex sight with multiple
located at the focal point of the first partially - reflective 10
surface 506 . The first light source 508 and the second light aiming marks 600 of FIG . 8, except that the light from the
first light source 708 is collimated by a first collimating lens
source 516 preferably output light at different wavelengths ; 724 prior to reaching the first ( flat ) optical element 704 and
and the first and second partially -reflective surfaces 506 , 514 light from the second light source 716 is collimated by a
have dichroic coatings selectively reflective to the wave second collimating lens 726 prior to reaching the second
lengths of the light emitted by the respective first and second 15
light sources 508 , 516 , while being highly transmissive of ( flat) optical element 712 . Like each of the embodiments
other wavelengths of visible light, and primarily reflect the discussed above , the beams of collimated light 710 and 718
wavelength of light from the first and second light sources are reflected by respective first and second partially - reflec
508 , 516 as collimated light 510 , 518 . So , for example, tive surfaces 706 and 714 rearward toward a user's eye 730
collimated light 510 reflected rearwardly by first partially - 20 so that a user perceives the reflected light as spaced -apart
reflective surface 506 will pass through second partially first and second luminous aiming marks 900, 902 ( FIG . 11 )
reflective surface 514 and to the user 's eye 530 . Alterna - superimposed on , and in focus with , targets in the field of
tively , the first and second light sources 508 , 516 could view 904 at any distance ( infinity focus ).
output light at the same wavelength , in which case the Like FIG . 8 discussed above , the wavelength of light from
second partially -reflective surface 514 must be partially 25 the first light source 708 and the second light source 716
reflective of the wavelength ( e . g ., 40 % -60 % transmissive , or may be the same or different, and the dichroic coatings or
preferably approximately 50 % transmissive), to allow some layers of partially -reflective surfaces 706 , 714 are based on
light from first light source 508 to pass therethrough and be the wavelength of light from the respective first and second
reflected rearwardly toward the user ' s eye 530 by first light source 708 , 716 .
partially -reflective surface 506 , albeit with its intensity 30 In the embodiment shown in FIG . 9 , first light source 708
attenuated . is positioned on a first plane 732 and second light source 716
In the embodiment shown in FIG . 7 , first light source 508
is positioned on a second plane 734 spaced below the first
is positioned on a first plane 532 and second light source 516plane 732 . This prevents the second light source 716 from
is positioned on a second plane 534 spaced below the first blocking the light from the first light source 708.
plane 532 . This prevents the second light source 516 from 35 FIG . 10 illustrates a seventh alternative embodiment of
blocking the light from the first light source 508 . the improved reflex sightwith multiple aimingmarks 700 of
FIG . 8 illustrates a fifth alternative embodiment of the the present invention .More particularly, the reflex sight with
improved reflex sight with multiple aiming marks 600 of the multiple aiming marks 700 has a first partially -reflective
present invention . More particularly , the reflex sight with surface 806 formed on a forward face of an optical element
multiple aiming marks 600 is like the reflex sight with 40 804 and the second partially -reflective surface 814 formed
multiple aiming marks 400 discussed above with respect to on an opposite rearward face of the same optical element
FIG . 6 , except having flat reflectors instead of curved 804 . The dichroic coating or layer of the first partially
reflectors. Reflex sight with multiple aiming marks 600 reflective surface 806 primarily reflects a wavelength of
includes a body 602 , a first ( flat) optical element 604, a first lightwith a first wavelength and the dichroic coating or layer
partially -reflective surface 606 , a first light source 608 , a 45 of the second partially - reflective surface 814 primarily
second (flat ) optical element 612 , a second partially -reflec - reflects a second wavelength of light different from the first
tive surface 614 , a second light source 616 , and windage wavelength of light. Light from the first light source 808
screws 620 , 622. As in the embodiment of FIG . 5 , discussed travels through the second partially - reflective surface 814 of
above , in the embodiment of FIG . 8 , light emitted from the the optical element 804 since it is a wavelength of light that
first light source 608 is collimated by a first collimating lens 50 is not reflected by the dichroic coating or layer of the second
624 prior to being reflected from the first (flat ) partially partially -reflective surface 814 , and reflects from the first
reflective surface 606 . Reflex sight 600 also includes a partially -reflective surface 806 rearward and back through
second collimating lens 626 that collimates the light from the second partially -reflective surface 814 toward a user ' s
the second light source 616 prior to being reflected by the eye 830 as collimated light 810 so that a user perceives the
second partially - reflective surface 614 . Like the embodi- 55 reflected light 810 as a first luminous aiming mark 900
ment of FIG . 6 , discussed above , the wavelength of light superimposed on , and in focus with , targets in the field of
from the first light source 608 and the second light source view at any distance (infinity focus). Light from the second
616 may be the same or different , and the dichroic coatings light source 816 reflects from the second partially -reflective
or layers of the partially -reflective surfaces 606 , 614 are surface 814 rearward toward a user 's eye 830 as collimated
based on the wavelength of light from the respective first and 60 light 818 so that a user perceives the reflected light 818 as
second light sources 608, 616 . Thus , the dichroic coating or a second illuminated aiming mark 902 superimposed on , and
layer of the first partially -reflective surface 606 primarily in focus with , targets in the field of view at any distance
reflects the wavelength of light from the first light source ( infinity focus), and spaced apart from the first luminous
608 as collimated light 610 , and the dichroic coating or layer aiming mark 900 .
of the partially -reflective surface 614 primarily reflects the 65 In the embodiment shown in FIG . 10 , first light source
wavelength of light from the second light source 616 as 808 is positioned on a first plane 832 and second light source
collimated light 618 . 816 is positioned on a second plane 834 spaced below the
 US 10 ,240 ,898 B2
11 12
first plane 832 . This prevents the second light source 816 the first concave surface having a first focal point;
from blocking the light from the first light source 808 . a second optical element having a second concave surface
FIG . 11 illustrates a viewing field ( field of view 904 ) of facing in the rearward direction ;
any of the reflex sights with multiple aiming marks dis the second concave surface having a second focal point;
cussed above . In the field of view 904 , spaced - apart first and 5 a first emitter proximate the first focal point and spaced
second aiming marks 900 , 902 can be seen . Each of these apart from the second focal point;
aiming marks 900, 902 can be adjusted independently of the a second emitter proximate the second focal point and
other by adjusting windage and/ or elevation screws of the spaced apart from the first focal point;
first light source and the second light source , as discussed the first optical element being forward of the second
above . Although windage and elevation screws above dis - 10 optical element; and
cussed adjusting the first and second light sources , alterna - wherein the first and second emitters are both rearward of
tively the viewed positions of the aiming marks relative to the first and second optical elements .
the point of impact can be adjusted by adjusting the positions 2 . The optical sightof claim 1 wherein the second emitter
of the first and second optical elements (e . g ., 104 and 112 ) is spaced apart rearwardly from the first emitter.
instead of or in addition to the positions of the first and 15 3 . The optical sight of claim 1 wherein the first emitter
second light sources . The sight line axis 906 extends from a emits radiation at a first wavelength , and the second emitter
target (not shown ) to a viewer's eye through the optical emits radiation at a different second wavelength .
elements . 4 . The optical sight of claim 3 wherein the first concave
In other embodiments ( not shown ),more than two aiming surface has a first reflective characteristic , and the second
marks are generated using light sources generating more 20 concave surface has a different second reflective character
than two points of light, such that each reflector generates istic .
images of multiple spaced -apart aiming marks, or using 5 . The optical sight of claim 4 wherein the first charac
more than two light sources and more than two partially - teristic is relatively greater reflectivity of the first wave
reflective surfaces. When more than two aiming marks are length than the second wavelength , and the second charac
generated , the multiple aiming marks may be spaced hori- 25 teristic is relatively greater reflectivity of the second
zontally to provide windage aiming, or both vertically and wavelength than the first wavelength .
horizontally for holdover and windage , or for other pur- 6 . The optical sight of claim 1 wherein each optical
poses . element is a lens with a base curve having limited distortive
Control over the quantity of aiming marks shown to the effect on images viewed through the lenses .
user can be achieved not only by selector switch 148 , but 30 7 . The optical sight of claim 1 wherein the second optical
could also be achieved through the reflex sight reading an element is interposed between the first optical element and
RFID tag on a magazine or round to automatically switch to the first emitter, such that emissions from the first emitter are
display of the appropriate aiming mark ( s ). Alternatively , the transmitted through the second optical element before
reflex sight could incorporate an accelerometer that can reflecting off the first surface, and a reflected image from the
detect the transition from one type of round to another by 35 first surface is transmitted through the second optical ele
differences in the amount of recoil and switch to displaying ment before reaching a viewer rearward of the sight.
the appropriate aiming mark ( s ) associated with the velocity 8 . The optical sight of claim 1 wherein the second optical
of the most recently fired round . element and the first emitter are interposed between the first
While current embodiments of a reflex sight with multiple optical element and the second emitter.
aiming marks have been described in detail , it should be 40 9 . The optical sight of claim 1 including a first adjustment
apparent that modifications and variations thereto are pos - facility adapted to move the apparent image of the first
sible , all of which fall within the true spirit and scope of the emitter as reflected in the first surface , and a second adjust
invention . With respect to the above description then , it is to ment facility adapted to move the apparent image of the
be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for second emitter as reflected in the second surface .
the parts of the invention , to include variations in size , 45 10 . An optical sight for a projectile weapon comprising :
materials , shape, form , function and manner of operation , a body having a forward end extending in forward direc
assembly and use , are deemed readily apparent and obvious tion and an opposed rearward end extending in a
to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to rearward direction ;
those illustrated in the drawings and described in the speci- a first optical element having a first reflective surface;
fication are intended to be encompassed by the present 50 a second optical element rearward of the first optical
invention . For example , different thicknesses of dichroic element and having a second reflective surface ;
coatings or layers can be used to achieve different amounts a first emitter adapted in conjunction with the first reflec
of reflectiveness of the desired wavelength . tive surface to project an image of the first emitter in a
Therefore , the foregoing is considered as illustrative only rearward direction ;
of the principles of the invention . Further, since numerous 55 a second emitter adapted in conjunction with the second
modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled reflective surface to project an image of the second
in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact emitter in a rearward direction ;
construction and operation shown and described , and an optical path extending between the forward end and the
accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may rearward end , and through both the first and second
be resorted to , falling within the scope of the invention . 60 optical elements ; and
I claim : wherein the first and second emitters are both rearward of
1. An optical sight for a projectile weapon comprising: the first and second optical elements .
a body having a forward end extending in forward direc 11 . A reflex sight system for a projectile weapon , com
tion and an opposed rearward end extending in a prising :
rearward direction ; 65 a body;
a first optical element having a first concave surface a first light source attached to the body to output a first
facing in the rearward direction; light;
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13 14
a first semi-reflective surface attached to the body through 22. The reflex sight system of claim 12 , further compris
which a viewer views a target in a viewing path , the ing:
first semi-reflective surface reflects the first light as a first collimating lens for collimating the first light prior
collimated light to create in the viewer 's eye an image to being reflected by the first semi-reflective surface;
of a first mark to align with the target in the viewing 5 and
path; a second collimating lens for collimating the second light
a second light source attached to the body to output a prior to being reflected by the second semi-reflective
second light, the second light source spaced apart from surface .
the first light source on the body ; 23 . The reflex sight system of claim 11 , wherein the first
a second semi- reflective surface attached to the body 10 light source is adjustable independent of the second light
through which the viewer views the target in the target source to adjust the image of the first mark relative to the
viewing path , the second semi- reflective surface and the second light source is adjustable independent
of the
reflecting the second light as collimated light to create mark relative first light source to adjust the image of the second
in the viewer ' s eye an image of a second mark simul to the target.
taneously with the first mark ; 1515 24 . The reflex sight system of claim of claim 11 , wherein
wherein the first light source, the second light source , the the first and second semi-reflective surfaces are part of a
single element.
first semi- reflective surface, and the second semi-re 25 . A method for displaying multiple aiming marks in a
flective surface are positioned such that the first mark reflex sight, comprising the steps of:
appears spaced apart from the second mark ; and
wherein the first and second light sources are both rear - 20 projecting a first light from a first light source ;
ward of the first and second semi- reflective surfaces . collimating the first light;
12 . The reflex sight system of claim 11 , wherein the first reflecting on a first semi-reflective surface through which
light has a first wavelength and the second light has a second a viewer views a target in a viewing path the collimated
wavelength different from the first wavelength , and wherein first light to create an image in the viewer 's eye of a first
the first semi-reflective surface includes a dichroic coating to 25 mark ;
reflect primarily the first wavelength of the first light and the projecting a second light from a second light source ;
second semi-reflective surface includes a dichroic coating to transmitting the second light through the first semi-reflec
reflect primarily the second wavelength of the second light. tive surface ;
13 . The reflex sight system of claim 12 wherein the first collimating the second light; and
light source and the second semi- reflective surface are 30 reflecting on a second semi- reflective surface through
positioned on the body between the second light source and which the viewer views the target in the viewing path
the first semi- reflective surface . the collimated second light and transmitting the colli
14 . The reflex sight system of claim 13 , wherein a height mated second light through the first semi-reflective
of the second semi-reflective surface is less than a height of surface to create an image in the viewer ' s eye of a
the first semi-reflective surface . 35 second mark .
15 . The reflex sight system of claim 13, wherein the first 26 . The method of claim 25 wherein :
semi-reflective surface and the second semi-reflective sur the first light has a first wavelength and the second light
face are the same height. has a second wavelength different from the first wave
16 . The reflex sight system of claim 12 , wherein the length ;
second semi-reflective surface is positioned between the first 40 the first semi-reflective surface includes a dichroic coating
light source and the first semi-reflective surface on the body primarily reflective of the first wavelength of the first
and the second light source is positioned rearward of the first light and transmissive to other visible wavelengths; and
light source on the body proximal of the viewer 's eye. the second semi-reflective surface includes a dichroic
17 . The reflex sight system of claim 16 , wherein the first coating primarily reflective of the second wavelength
light source is positioned on a first plane and the second light 45 of the second light and transmissive to other visible
source is positioned on a second plane spaced apart from the wavelengths .
first plane. 27 . The method of claim 25 wherein the first semi
reflective
rene andsurface
18 . The reflex sight system of claim 12 , wherein the first element is formed on a forward face of an optical
and second semi-reflective surfaces are supported on respec the second semi-reflective surface is formed on
tive forward and rearward faces of a common optical ele - 5050 aa rearward face of the optical element .
28 . The method of claim 25 wherein the first semi
ment.
19 . The reflex sight system of claim 12 , wherein the first reflective surface is curved and collimates the first light and
the second semi-reflective is curved and collimates the
semi-reflective surface is curved , the second semi- reflective
surface is curved , the first light source is positioned on the second light.
body at a focal point of the first semi- reflective surface, and 5555 lens29collimates
. The method of claim 25 wherein a first collimating
the first light and a second collimating lens
the second light source is positioned on the body at a focal collimates the second light.
point of the second semi- reflective surface that is spaced
apart from the focal point of the first semi-reflective surface . 30. Themethod of claim 25 further comprising adjusting
20 . The reflex sight system of claim 19 , wherein a focal positions of the first and second light sources independently
length of the first semi-reflective surface is greater than a 60 of each other to adjust the positions of the images of the first
focal length of the second semi- reflective surface . and second marks relative to the target.
21 . The reflex sight system of claim 19 , wherein a focal 31 . The method of claim 25 further comprising creating
length of the first semi-reflective surface is substantially ouslyimage
equal to the focal length of the second semi- reflective
an in the viewer 's eye of a second mark simultane
with and spaced apart from the first mark .
surface .