FIRE CONTROL SYSTEM WITH INTEGRATED REFLEX SIGHT

Abstract

 The present disclosure relates to the field of weapon accessories and, in particular, to an improved accessory device that integrates a fire control system and a reflex sight. The integrated fire control system and a reflex sight can advantageously be used in connection with a grenade launcher, although it will be recognized that use with other weapon and munition types are also contemplated

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/771,463 filed March 13, 2025.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of weapon accessories and, in particular, to an improved accessory device that integrates a fire control system and a reflex sight. The integrated fire control system and a reflex sight can advantageously be used in connection with a grenade launcher, although it will be recognized that use with other weapon and munition types are also contemplated.

[0003] The integrated fire control system of the present disclosure is combined with an active smart reflex sight, a suite of calibrated cameras set to 3 different distances, a laser range finder managed by a visual augmentation processor, a ballistic computer, a sensor suite, and round programmer, and can be advantageously be used on grenade launcher and a large bore rifle designed to fire air busting ammunition to defeat targets hiding behind obstacles or to counter kamikaze drones because of the versatility of the present design, Because the components are modular, the presently disclosed system can easily be reconfigured based on mission-specific requirements or upgraded as technology advances.

[0004] In one aspect, a fire control system having an integral reflex sight comprising a modular enclosure having a housing and a laser range finder module disposed inside the modular enclosure. A camera module is disposed inside the modular enclosure and a reflex sight assembly is disposed on an exterior surface of the modular enclosure. An optical magnifier is coupled to an exterior surface of the housing. A processing system is disposed within the housing and includes at least one processor and memory storing executable instructions.

[0005] In a more limited aspect, the modular enclosure defines a first receptacle configured to receive the laser range finder module and a second receptacle configured to receive the camera module.

[0006] In another more limited aspect, the reflex sight assembly further includes a display and at least one optical element in communication, wherein the display is configured to display a display output.

[0007] In another more limited aspect, the camera module further comprises a plurality of camera assemblies.

[0008] In another more limited aspect, the plurality of camera assemblies include at least first, second, and third camera assemblies configured for short-range, intermediate-range, and long-range imaging, respectively.

[0009] In another more limited aspect, the processing system is configured to selectively switch between the plurality of camera assemblies to maintain a substantially full field of view on the display.

[0010] In another more limited aspect, the laser range module further comprises at least one optical emitter configured to emit a pulsed optical signal toward a target, and an optical receiver configured to detect a return signal reflected from the target.

[0011] In another more limited aspect, the integral reflex sight further comprises a pivot assembly coupled to the housing, wherein the optical magnifier is removably coupled to the pivot assembly and movable between a deployed position and a stowed position. When the optical magnifier is in the deployed position, an optical axis of the optical magnifier is in optical alignment with an optical axis of the reflex sight assembly and when the optical magnifier is in the stowed position, the optical axis of the optical magnifier is out of optical alignment with the optical axis of the reflex sight assembly.

[0012] In another more limited aspect, the integral reflex sight further comprises a switch assembly configured to detect whether the optical magnifier is in the deployed position or the stowed position.

[0013] In another more limited aspect, the processor is configured to modify the display output based on a detected position of the optical magnifier.

[0014] In another more limited aspect, the integral reflex sight further comprises at least one rail clamp assembly coupled to the housing, wherein the at least one rail clamp assembly is configured to detachably couple the integral reflex sight to a rail interface.

[0015] In another more limited aspect, the integral reflex sight further comprises a wireless communication interface, such as a wireless (e.g., radio frequency (RF)) transceiver, configured to exchange data and communication with at least one external device.

[0016] In another more limited aspect, the integral reflex sight further comprises at least one battery disposed in the housing.

[0017] In another more limited aspect, the processing system is configured to receive range data from the laser range module and calculate a distance to target based on the range data, select one of the plurality of camera assemblies based at least in part on the range data, and generate display output including an electronic reticle having a position adjusted according to a ballistic solution, and provide the display output for presentation on the display.

[0018] In another more limited aspect, the integral reflex sight further comprises a connector disposed on the housing and configured to operably couple a payload programming remote control unit.

[0019] In another more limited aspect, the payload programming remote control unit is configured to transmit programming information for setting a detonation distance of a programmable munition.

[0020] In another more limited aspect, the processing system is configured to set an initial detonation distance based on a distance determined by the laser range finder module and to permit incremental adjustment of the detonation distance via inputs received from the payload programming remote control unit.

[0021] In another more limited aspect, the reflex sight assembly further comprises a front mechanical sight and a rear mechanical sight.

[0022] In another more limited aspect, each of the front mechanical sight and the rear mechanical sight are pivotably coupled to a reflex sight housing of the reflex sight assembly and are configured to move between a deployed position configured for use as an aiming reference and a stowed position wherein the front mechanical sight and the rear mechanical sight are substantially out of a field of view of the reflex sight assembly.

[0023] In another more limited aspect, the front mechanical sight and the rear mechanical sight are manually movable to the deployed position to provide a backup aiming mechanism when electronic display functionality is unavailable.

[0024] Various advantages and benefits of the present development will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading and understanding the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The invention may take form in various components and arrangements of components, and in various steps and arrangements of steps. The drawings are only for purposes of illustrating preferred embodiments and are not to be construed as limiting the invention.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a fire control system with integral reflex sight in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, taken generally from the front and left side.

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight appearing in FIG. 1, taken generally from the rear and right side.

FIG. 3 is a view of an exemplary menu-based user interface for navigating reflex sight settings, which is configured to be output to a display which is viewable through the reflex sight, as well as a reticle adjust mode for manually adjusting the weapon zero of the disturbed reticle.

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight appearing in FIG. 1, taken generally from the front, left side, and above.

FIG. 5 is a right side view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight appearing in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a front view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight appearing in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a right side view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight appearing in FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight appearing in FIG. 1, taken generally from the rear and left side, showing the magnifier in the deployed position.

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight appearing in FIG. 1, taken generally from the rear and left side, showing the magnifier in the stowed position.

FIG. 10 is an isometric view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight appearing in FIG. 1, taken generally from the rear and left side, with the magnifier removed.

FIG. 11 is a partially exploded isometric view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight appearing in FIG. 1.

FIG. 12 is a side cross sectional view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight appearing in FIG. 1.

FIG. 13 is an electrical block diagram of the fire control system with integral reflex sight appearing in FIG. 1.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged isometric view of the visual augmentation module.

FIG. 15 is an exploded isometric view of the visual augmentation module.

FIG. 16 is an enlarged isometric view of the laser rangefinder module.

FIG. 17 is an exploded isometric view of the laser rangefinder module.

FIG. 18 is an enlarged isometric view of the camera module.

FIG. 19 is an exploded isometric view of the camera module.

FIGS 1A-19A depict a fire control system with integral reflex sight in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment which are the same a described by way of reference to FIGS. 1-19, except as stated otherwise herein.

FIGS 20 and 21 are isometric views of a fire control system with integral reflex sight in accordance with a third exemplary embodiment having front and rear mechanical sights (iron sights) which may be used as a back sight in the event of malfunction of loss of battery power. The embodiment appearing in FIGS 20 and 21 may otherwise be as described herein by way of reference to the embodiment appearing in FIGS. 1-19 and/or the embodiment appearing in FIGS. 1A-19A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

[0026] Reference will now be made in detail to presently preferred embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present inventive concept in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting but rather to provide an understandable description of the present development. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit thereof. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used on another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0027] The terms "a" or "an," as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term "another," as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms "including" and/or "having" as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open transition). The term "coupled" or "operatively coupled," as used herein, is defined as indirectly or directly connected.

[0028] As used in this application, the terms "front," "rear," "upper," "lower," "upwardly," "downwardly," "left," "right," and other orientation descriptors are intended to facilitate the description of the exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the structure thereof to any particular position or orientation.

[0029] All numbers herein are assumed to be modified by the term "about," unless stated otherwise. The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers subsumed within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5).

[0030] Referring now to the drawing FIGS. 1-10, there is shown a fire control system with integral reflex sight 100 which includes a modular enclosure A which receives a laser range finder module B and a camera module C. A reflex sight assembly D is disposed on the modular enclosure A. A main housing E defines a main interior compartment F (see FIG. 12) and further includes a battery compartment portion G. The modular enclosure A and main housing E are closed on the bottom by a base plate H. The base plate H includes one or more, e.g., 2, rail clamp assemblies I configured to detachably secure the unit 100 to a weapon rail interface (not shown), such as a Picatinny rail interface (e.g., MIL-STD 1913 rail or NATO or STANAG equivalent) (not shown). The base plate H is secured to the main housing E via threaded fasteners 116 passing through clearance opening 118 and threadably engaging aligned tapped openings (not shown) in the main housing E.

[0031] The modular enclosure A includes a first receptacle or bay 102 configured to receive the laser range finder module B. In embodiments, the dimensions, electrical connection points, and the like of the bay 102 are specified in an associated interface control document (ICD), e.g., to allow for future upgrades, ease of repair, or exchanging with other laser range finder modules.

[0032] The modular enclosure A includes a second receptacle or bay 104 configured to receive the camera module C. In embodiments, the dimensions, electrical connection points, and the like of the bay 104 are specified in an associated interface control document (ICD), e.g., to allow for future upgrades, ease of repair, or exchanging with other camera modules.

[0033] The bays 102, 104 may be separated by a partition, or alternatively, the bays 102, 104 may be unpartitioned or contiguous, allowing for flexible configurations. A sealed connector 112 (see FIG. 17) on the back of the laser range finder module B makes electrical contact on the rear wall of the bay 102 to pass power to the unit B and data to and from the unit B. A sealed connector 114 (see FIG. 19) on the back of the camera module C makes electrical contact on the rear wall of the bay 104 to pass power to the unit C and data to and from the unit C.

[0034] The main housing E receives a main control board or motherboard J (see FIG. 12). The main housing board includes a processor and associated memory configured to execute an executable program of instructions. The main housing E also receives a visual processing module or visual augmentation module K. In embodiments, the visual processing module K is configured as a modular unit. In embodiments, the dimensions, electrical connection points, and the like of the visual processing module K are specified in an associated interface control document (ICD), e.g., to allow for future upgrades or exchanging with other visual processing modules. The visual processing module K is sandwiched between the base plate H and the motherboard J.

[0035] As used herein, the term "processor" refers to any one or more processing devices configured to perform described functions. A processor may include a signal processing unit or multiple processing components operating together, whether integrated on a common substrate or distributed across multiple hardware elements. For example, in some embodiments a processor may include a main processor and one or more specialized processing modules, e.g., the visual processing module K. The described functional modules need not correspond to physically distinct hardware components, and in the illustrated arrangement is provided for explanatory purposes only. It will be recognized that the executable instructions may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof.

[0036] Housed together with the main control board J is a sensor suite comprising a plurality of sensors, including but not limited to a barometric pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an inclinometer, such as a 2 or three axis accelerometer, Bluetooth or other RF communications interface, ballistics calculator, and the like.

[0037] As best seen in FIGS. 14 and 15, the visual processing or augmentation module

[0038] As best seen in FIG 11, the laser range finder module B and the camera module C are configured to slide into the respective bays 102, 104. In embodiments, the modules B and C are secured in place by threaded fasteners 106 passing through clearance openings 108 in the modular enclosure A and threadably engaging aligned openings 110 in the modules B and C.

[0039] The laser range finder module B includes an optical transmitter/receiver pair 120 configured to emit an optical signal, such as a pulse encoded signal, and sense a return signal reflected from a target, wherein a distance to the target is calculated based on the time of flight of the emitted signal and the return signal, as would understood by persons skilled in the art.

[0040] The battery compartment portion G includes one or more battery compartments, each configured to receive one or more battery cells 123 (see FIG. 13). Each compartment is covered with a removable battery cap 122. In embodiments, the battery compartment portion G includes two battery compartments. In embodiments, the unit 100 is configured to be powered by one battery at a time, with a second battery compartment being provided to allow for extended run time via manual and/or automatic switchover when the cell in one compartment is depleted.

[0041] The camera module C includes a plurality (three in the embodiment illustrated) of camera assemblies 124. In embodiments each camera assembly is prefocused to a predetermined distance. For example, in embodiments, the camera module C includes three camera assemblies which are pre-focused to varying distances, e.g., 100 m, 250 m, and 500 m. In embodiments, the camera assemblies 124 may be miniature camera modules of the type used in mobile devices which comprise an image sensor (e.g., CMOS, CCD, or near infrared (NIR) sensor, or the like) and a lens assembly. In embodiments, the camera assemblies 124 also have different focal lengths, e.g., wherein the 100 m camera has a wider field of view/lower magnification, the 250 m camera has an intermediate field of view/lower magnification and the 500 m camera has a narrower field of view/higher magnification.

[0042] An optical magnifier/multiplier L is detachably coupled to a pivot assembly M (see FIG. 10) which, in turn, is coupled to the upper surface of the main housing E. The pivot assembly M includes a base 126 which is secured to the upper surface of the main housing E. A mounting shoe fastening arm 128 is pivotally coupled to the base 126 via a hinge assembly 130. The mounting shoe fastening arm 128 includes a fastening element 132, such as a dovetail shoe receptacle or the like. The fastening element 132 detachably receives complementary fastening element 133 (see FIG. 12) such as a dovetail shoe. The hinge assembly defines a pivot axis 134 which extends in a direction parallel to a long. axis of the unit 100 and parallel to an optical axis 136 of the optical magnifier L. In embodiments, the optical magnifier L has a magnification in the range of 4x to 10x, preferably 6x. In this manner, the operator can selectively pivot the magnifier L to the deployed position wherein the optical axis 136 of the magnifier L is in optical alignment with an optical axis 138 of the reflex sight module D, e.g., when it is desired to view a magnified image of the view through the reflex sight, e.g., for extended viewing/targeting range. Alternately, the operator can selectively pivot the magnifier L to the stowed position wherein the optical axis 136 of the magnifier L is out of optical alignment with the optical axis 138 of the reflex sight module D, e.g., when it is desired to view targeted scene through the reflex sight directly. For example, stowing the magnifier L allows the operator to use the reflex sight directly which may make it easier to engage a target in certain situations, such as when attempting to engage a target in flight, such as a drone or other unmanned aerial vehicle. The pivoting movement between the deployed and stowed position is indicated by the arrow 137 appearing in FIG. 8.

[0043] In embodiments, a latch assembly 140 is configured to releasably secure the fastening arm 128 in the stowed position. In embodiments, a switch assembly 142 is provided for sensing whether the magnifier L is in the stowed or deployed position, as will be described in further detail below. The switch assembly 142 is operably coupled to processing electronics on the main control board J. Alternately, the position of the magnifier may be determined using a proximity sensor. For example, the magnifier L or the mounting shoe fastening arm 128 may carry a magnet and a proximity sensor such as a Hall effect sensor or a magnetic reed switch may be disposed in the housing E such that an output signal is generated when the magnifier L is in the stowed position.

[0044] For example, as shown in FIG. 7B, which is equally applicable to the embodiments appearing in FIGS. 1-19, the sensor 142 may be a proximity sensor such as a Hall effect sensor or a magnetic reed switch. A magnet 143 is carried on the arm 128 so that the magnet 123 is in proximity with the proximity sensor switch 142 when the magnifier L is in the deployed position and is moved out of proximity with the switch 142 when the magnifier L is pivoted to the stowed position. Alternately, the switch 142 can be a mechanical switch incorporating a spring biased actuator as would be understood by persons skilled in the art. In either case, the switch 142 is operably coupled to processing circuitry on the main control board J, which monitors the switch state by detecting its open or closed condition and thereby sensing the position of the magnifier L.

[0045] In embodiments, the hinge assembly is separable or detachable to that the magnifier L can be completely removed from the fastening arm 128 when it is not desired to use the magnifier L, as shown in FIG. 10.

[0046] The main housing E has a height 144 which is configured to allow the unit 100 to function as a riser to provide increased height between the rail the sight than conventional systems. This provides a better "cheek well' or "sight plan" when looking thought the reflex sight and is particularly advantages for an operator wearing bulky equipment such as a night vision googles, gas mask or other nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) or chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) equipment. This is in contrast to conventional systems wherein a user wearing such equipment may be required to position their head in an awkward in order to look thought the sight.

[0047] As best seen in FIG. 12, the reflex sight module D includes a reflex sight housing 146 which houses a digital display 148 and one or more optical elements designated generally as 149, including one or more prisms, wedges, lenses, waveguides, and/or other reflective, refractive, and/or diffractive optical elements configured direct images from the display 148 to the eye of the operator. In embodiments, the one or more optical elements incudes a beam combiner 150 or similar optical element such as a partially reflective mirror, dichroic mirror, or the like, or a waveguide which is configured to reflect a portion of the rays from the display 148 to the user's eye while also being sufficiently transparent to permit rays from the targeted scene to pass therethrough to provide a direct view of targeted scend. In this manner, the output of the display 148 is superimposed onto the operator's view of the targeted scene. The display 148 is in operable communication with display driver electronics associated with the visual processing module K.

[0048] In embodiments the display 148 is configured to display a video image acquired by on of the cameral modules 124. In embodiments, the range to target distance as determined by the laser range finder B is used by the processing electronics on the main control board J, which may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof, to activate which ever camera is needed to provide a full field of view of the imaged scene in the digital display 148.

[0049] In embodiments, when the optical magnifier L is in the stowed position the display output of the digital display 148 as detected by the sensor 142, the output of the digital display is changed to match the optical power of the magnifier L. The change in output of the digital display may be accomplished by camera selection of the appropriate camera in the camera module C, a digital zoom function implemented in the video processor module K, or a combination thereof.

[0050] In embodiments, the output of the display 148 includes visual indicia such as an electronic reticle 152 (see FIG. 6) and preferably includes a plurality of reticle types including but not limited to one or more types of dot reticles, cross hair reticles, and so forth. In embodiments, the type of reticle is selectable via the on board menu system. In embodiments, the unit 100 and video processing module K supports user-configurable reticle styles which can be programmed by the user and wirelessly transmitter to the unit via a wireless (RF) interface 257 (see FIG. 13).

[0051] In embodiments, the electronic reticle is a disturbed reticle showing the ballistic solution and point of aim data for a given target, e.g., based on range to target and other ballistic factors. In embodiments, the position of the electronic reticle 152 on the display is dynamically adjusted based on a ballistic solution calculated based on range and/or other ballistic information to improve alignment with the target, thereby enhancing accuracy and increasing the likelihood that the trajectory of a fired projectile will intersect with the position of the target. Other indicia for display using the display 148 include but are not limited to target range indicia based on output of the laser range finder module B, current time or mission duration, navigation data, sensor readings, battery status or battery life remaining, environmental data, warnings or alerts, data pertaining to situational awareness information, and other mission-relevant information.

[0052] In certain embodiments, the wireless communication interface 257 is configured to interface the unit 100 with one other accessory devices (or a network of devices) for data exchange and communication. In embodiments, the wireless communication interface 257 is configured to connect wirelessly with a central hub or controller which, in turn, interfaces with one or wired devices coupled to the central hub or controlled through a wired connection, for example, a USB-C connection, thereby enabling data transmission and communication between the devices. In embodiments, the central hub or controller is a body worn device configured to attach to a back pack, tactical vest, or other garment of accessory worn by the user. In embodiments, the central hub or controller is a helmet worn device. In embodiments, the helmet worn device is configured to bridge or link various components in a helmet mounting system or helmet mount assembly. In embodiments, the helmet worn device is configured to bridge or link various components in a helmet mounting system or helmet mount assembly via a wired connection. In embodiments, the helmet worn device is configured to bridge or link various components in a helmet mounting system or helmet mount assembly via a wireless connection. In embodiments, the helmet worn device is configured to bridge or link various components in a helmet mounting system or helmet mount assembly via a combination of wired and wireless connections.

[0053] In certain embodiments, the wireless communication interface 257 is configured to establish a mesh network connection with a plurality of devices in a mesh network. The plurality of devices may be helmet borne devices, weapon borne devices, body worn devices, end user devices such as a mobile phone (e.g., smart phone), smart watch, or other mobile device. In embodiments the wireless interface includes a 5G chip set configured for mesh connectivity with a 5G mesh network. It will be recognized that other communication standards, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 4G/LTE, or similar technologies, may also be employed to embody the present development without departing from its scope.

[0054] In embodiments, the wireless communication interface 257 is configured to wirelessly connect with an intra-soldier wireless (ISW) communication system, wireless sensor network (WSN), intra-wearable communication system (IWCS), integrated tactical networks (ITN) or future soldier systems (FSS), battlefield tactical automated communications (BTAC) or other soldier systems, tactical networks, or wearable communication systems for providing data transfer and communication equipment, soldiers, units, and/or command centers.

[0055] In embodiments, the central hub or controller is a helmet worn device configured to attach to a back pack, tactical vest, or other garment of accessory worn by the user.

[0056] As best seen in FIG. 5, the illustrated embodiment includes a battery selector switch or lever 154 disposed on a side of the main housing E for manually switching between the batteries in first and second battery compartments in the battery compartment portion G. The side of the main housing E also includes a keypad comprising a plurality of keys or buttons for navigating a user interface displayed on the display 148. In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the user interface is a menu-based user interface. In the illustrated embodiment, the navigation keys or buttons of the keypad region include down and up directional arrow buttons 156 and 158, respectively, a select button 160, and left and right directional arrow buttons 162 and 164, respectively.

[0057] For example, in one exemplary implementation as shown in FIG. 3, the user interface is a hierarchical menu-based user interface wherein the arrow buttons 156, 158, 162, 164 are configured to progress through a plurality of menu items, e.g., 168a-168c in the screen shot depicted on the left side. In embodiments, the menu item 168a allows the user to navigate to a plurality of user selectable reticle settings or shapes. The menu item 168b allows the user to navigate to a reticle adjustment interface as discussed below. The menu item 168c allows the user to navigate to a menu system for adjusting one or more system settings.

[0058] In embodiments, the square button 160 is configured to enter a menu by selecting and holding for a preprogrammed period of time. In embodiments, a single quick press of the square button 160 is configured to select a menu item. In embodiments, when an item is selected, the arrow keys may be used to adjust a setting. It will be recognized that other configurations are contemplated, including configuration involving multiple presses such as double press, etc., multiple long press durations, e.g., 2 seconds, 3 seconds, 5 seconds, etc.

[0059] Still referring to FIG. 3, the screen shot appearing on the right side depicts a reticle adjustment mode (e.g., by selecting the menu item 168b on the left side screen shot appearing in FIG. 3) wherein the arrow buttons 156, 158, 162, 164 may be used to zero the position of the disturbed reticle 152 to an on-screen position wherein the reticle position is aligned with actual shot placement at a specified range 172.

[0060] As can be seen in FIG. 2, a secondary display screen 174 is disposed on the rearward facing end of the main housing E. The secondary display 174 may be utilized to display additional information such as whether a round is detected in the chamber or other information. The secondary display 174 may be an LED display, LCD display, OLED display, or the like. In embodiments, a hood or visor 176 extends at least partially around the secondary display 174 to reduce ambient light interference and enhance user visibility, and/or limit to external light leakage to prevent detection in low-light conditions.

[0061] Referring now to FIGS. 14 and 15, the visual processing/augmentation module K includes a housing shell 180 which cooperates with a bottom cover 182 to define an enclosure. The bottom cover 182 is secured to the housing shell 180 with threaded fasteners 184 which pass through clearance openings 186 in the bottom cover 182 and engage complementary openings in the housing shell 180. One or more circuit boards 188 comprising video processing and driver electronics are stacked within the enclosure. A sealed electronic connector 190 passes through an opening 192 in the housing shell 180 and is configured to operably couple the module K to the main control board J. In embodiments, the dimensions, electrical connection points, and the like of the unit K are specified in an associated interface control document (ICD), e.g., to allow for future upgrades, ease of repair, or exchanging with other laser range finder modules.

[0062] Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 17, the laser range finder module B includes a housing shell 194 which cooperates with a top cover 196 to define an enclosure. The top cover 196 is secured to the housing shell 194 with threaded fasteners 196 which pass through clearance openings 198 in the top cover 196 and engage complementary openings 200 in the housing shell 194. The front wall of the housing shell 194 includes emitter apertures 202 and a receiver aperture 204 which are covered by a window 206 which is transparent with respect to the emitted wavelength. A window cover or bezel 208 secures the window cover to the housing 194. The window cover 208 includes emitter apertures 210 aligned with the apertures 202 and an aperture 212 aligned with the aperture 204. The window cover 208 is secured via threaded fasteners 214 passing through clearance openings 216 and threadably engaging threaded openings 218 in the front wall of the housing 194.

[0063] A laser ranger finder assembly 220 is mounted within the housing 194. The sealed electronic connector 112 passes through an opening 222 in the housing shell 194 and is configured to operably couple the module B to the main control board J. The laser range finder module 220 includes one or more emitters, e.g., laser diode packages 224, and an optical receiver 226 assembly, which may be coaligned on an optical bench. Opposing slide rails 228 are disposed on the sides of the housing 194 and are configured to ensure proper alignment of the module B when it is inserted and removed from the bay receptacle 102.

[0064] Referring now to FIGS. 18 and 19, the camera module C includes a housing shell 230 which cooperates with a top cover 232 to define an enclosure. The top cover 232 is secured to the housing shell 230 with threaded fasteners 234 which pass through clearance openings 236 in the top cover 232 and engage complementary openings 238 in the housing shell 230. The front wall of the housing shell 230 includes three apertures 240 which are covered by a window 242. A window cover or bezel 244 secures the window cover to the housing 230. The window cover 244 includes apertures 246 aligned with the apertures 240. The window cover 244 is secured via threaded fasteners 248 passing through clearance openings 250 and threadably engaging threaded openings 252 in the front wall of the housing 230.

[0065] Three mini camera assemblies 124, each comprising a lens assembly and a sensor array, are mounted on a circuit board 254 secured within the housing 230. In the illustrated embodiment, a second camera circuit board 256 is secured via mounting bosses 258 and threaded fasteners (not shown). The second camera circuit board 256 may include digital signal processing electronics power distribution, wireless communication interface electronics (e.g., a Bluetooth interface) 257, and so forth.

[0066] The sealed electronic connector 114 passes through an opening 260 in the housing shell 230 and is configured to operably couple the module C to the main control board J. Opposing slide rails 262 are disposed on the sides of the housing 230 and are configured to ensure proper alignment of the module B when it is inserted and removed from the bay receptacle 102.

[0067] Referring now to FIGS. 1A-19A, there is shown a second embodiments fire control system with integral reflex sight 100'. The above description of the fire control system with integral reflex sight 100 in reference to FIGS 1-19 is equally applicable to FIGS. 1A-19A, which description is incorporated by reference here, except as specifically stated otherwise herein.

[0068] FIG. 1A is an isometric view the fire control system with integral reflex sight 100', taken generally from the front and left side. The unit 100' differs from the unit 100 described above in that it further includes a connector assembly including a connector housing 271 (left side in the illustrated embodiment) having a connector 270 which is configured to receive a System A payload programming remote control unit 272 for sending program information to the weapon to determine the distance at which the round will air-burst. The remote control unit 272 includes a cable 274 having a connector end 276 which engages with the connector 270. In embodiments, the connectors 270, 276 are shown as complementary circular connectors, e.g., Fischer style connectors such as a 3 pin or 4 pin Fischer style connectors, although other connector types are also contemplated. It will be recognized that although a left side connector 270 receiving programming remote control is illustrated, right handed and ambidextrous embodiments are also contemplated.

[0069] In certain embodiments the remote control unit 272 includes a plurality of push buttons 275a-275d. In the illustrated embodiment, the button 275a is configured to actuate the laser range finder module B to initiate ranging to determine the distance to the target for calculating a ballistic solution. The button 275b is configured to program a programmable airburst round. The buttons 275c and 275d are configured such that each button press increments the distance at which the airburst round will detonate up or down, respectively, by a preselected incremental distance, such as in 1 meter increments. In embodiments, the programmed detonation distance is overlaid on the display 148 and/or displayed on the secondary display 174.

[0070] In one programming mode, the detonation distance for programming a programmable round is set initially by default to the target distance as calculated by the laser range finder module B. The detonation distance can then be increased or decreased in increments such as 1 meter to be greater or less than the calculated distance. For example, in the case of an enemy target which is hiding behind cover, the operator can program the airburst round to detonate at a distance just beyond the target (i.e., further past the enemy's position) so that the round bursts above or past the cover, thereby releasing shrapnel or fragmentation in a way that maximizes the impact on the enemy, even if they are shielded behind an object.

[0071] In another programming mode, the detonation distance for programming a programmable round is incremented based on the firing position of the operator using the buttons 275c and 275. In embodiments, to streamline programming in this alternative mode, a hold the buttons 275c and 275c may include a hold function where holding the button 275c or 275d increases or decreases the value rapidly and/or in larger increments, such as 10 m, 50 m, 100 m, etc.

[0072] The unit 100' also differs from the unit 100 described above in that the battery selector lever 154 has been oved from the left side to the right side.

[0073] FIG. 2A is an isometric view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight 100' appearing in FIG. 1A, taken generally from the rear and right side.

[0074] FIG. 3A is a view of an exemplary menu-based user interface for navigating reflex sight settings, which interface is configured to be output to a display which is viewable through the reflex sight, as well as a reticle adjust mode for manually adjusting the weapon zero of the disturbed reticle.

[0075] FIG. 4A is an isometric view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight 100' appearing in FIG. 1A, taken generally from the front, left side, and above.

[0076] FIG. 5A is a right side view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight 100' appearing in FIG. 1A. As can be seen in FIG. 5A, the unit 100' further includes a right side connector 270, which is as described above by way of reference to the left side connector 270 and is likewise configured to be coupled to the remote control unit 272 as described above.

[0077] FIG. 6A is a front view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight appearing 100' in FIG. 1A.

[0078] FIG. 7A is a right side view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight 100' appearing in FIG. 1A.

[0079] FIG. 8A is partial cutaway view illustrating the magnifier position sensor 142, which may be a switch, magnetic proximity sensor, or the like as described above.

[0080] FIG. 9A is an isometric view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight 100' appearing in FIG. 1A, taken generally from the rear and left side, showing the magnifier in the deployed position.

[0081] FIG. 10A is an isometric view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight 100' appearing in FIG. 1A, taken generally from the rear and left side, showing the magnifier in the stowed position.

[0082] FIG. 11A is an isometric view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight 100' appearing in FIG. 1A, taken generally from the rear and left side, with the magnifier removed. FIG. 11A illustrates a visual processing module K which has been adapted to incorporate the connectors 270 but is as otherwise as described above.

[0083] FIG. 12A is a partially exploded isometric view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight 100' appearing in FIG. 1A.

[0084] FIG. 13A is a side cross sectional view of the fire control system with integral reflex sight 100' appearing in FIG. 1A.

[0085] FIG. 14A is an enlarged isometric view of the visual augmentation module and illustrates a visual processing module K which has been adapted to incorporate the connectors 270, including cutaway portions 280 in the housing 180, but is as otherwise as described above.

[0086] FIG. 15A is an exploded isometric view of the visual augmentation module K which has been adapted to incorporate the connectors 270 including cutaway portions 280 in the housing 180 but is as otherwise as described above.

[0087] FIG. 16A is an enlarged isometric view of the laser rangefinder module, which may be substantially as described above.

[0088] FIG. 17A is an exploded isometric view of the laser rangefinder module which may be substantially as described above.

[0089] FIG. 18A is an enlarged isometric view of the camera module which may be substantially as described above.

[0090] FIG. 19A is an exploded isometric view of the camera module which may be substantially as described above.

[0091] Referring now to FIGS. 20 and 21, there is shown a third embodiment fire control system with integral reflex sight 100" wherein the reflex sight assembly includes an integral front iron (mechanical) sight 282 (see FIG. 20) and an integral rear iron (mechanical) sight 284 (see FIG. 21).

[0092] The front sight 282 includes a pivot plate 286 which is pivotally secured to a front surface of the housing of the reflex assembly D. The pivot plate 286 is secured in pivotable fashion via a threaded fastener 288 and is pivotable about a pivot axis 292 as indicated by the arrow 293 appearing in FIG. 20. In this manner the front sight 282 can be pivoted between a deployed position as illustrated and a stowed position where it is out of the view through the reflex sight D when not in use. A post 290 is coupled to the pivot plate which projects into the field of view of the direct view optics when pivoted to the operable position.

[0093] The rear sight 284 includes a rear sight housing 294 having a slot 297 formed therein. A rear sight member 295 includes a post 296 which is coupled at its lower end to a pivot rod 298 and which has a notch or aperture 300 at its upper end. The illustrated embodiment depicts a U-shaped notch, although other configurations are contemplated, such as a V-notch, an aperture or ring, and so forth. The pivot rod 298 passes through an opening in the reflex sight housing and includes a knob 304 at its distal end. The knob 304 is manually rotatable between a deployed position as illustrated and a stowed position where it is out of the field of view of the reflex sight D when not in use. During pivoting movement, the post 296 runs in the slot 297 to allow pivoting movement of the rear sight 274 about a pivot axis 302 as indicated by the arrow 304 appearing in FIG. 21. Either or both of the front and rear sights 282, 284 may have a contrast feature to enhance visibility, e.g., on the post 290 and/or the notch or aperture 300, which may be, for example, a feature that is painted with a contrasting color, luminescent paint, and so forth.

[0094] The inclusion of the iron sights 282, 284 is advantageous in that is ensures continued aiming accuracy in the event of failure of the fire control system with integral reflex sight. For example, the unit 100" were to become inoperative, e.g., due to battery depletion, damage, or a failure of the disturbed reticle display hardware or software, the operator could fall back on the iron sights 282, 294, aligning them within the direct-view optics to maintain effective targeting. This redundancy enhances reliability in critical scenarios, allowing for accurate engagement of targets even when the magnified and/or enhanced aiming features of the unit 100" system are compromised.

[0095] While the fire control system with integral reflex sight embodiments 100 and 100' are shown and described above without iron sights, it is contemplated that the iron sights 282, 284 of the unit 100" may also be incorporated into the embodiments 100 and 100'. In particular, the iron sights 282 and 284 appearing in FIGS. 20 and 21 may likewise be integrated into the systems 100 and 100' described above to provide a backup aiming mechanism in the event of failure of the magnified/disturbed sighting system. Such modifications fall within the scope of the present disclosure, and any features described with respect to one embodiment herein may be combined with any other embodiment unless otherwise indicated.

[0096] The invention has been described with reference to the preferred embodiment. Modifications and alterations will occur to others upon a reading and understanding of the preceding detailed description. It is intended that the invention be construed as including all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A fire control system with an integral reflex sight comprising:

a modular enclosure having a housing;

a laser range finder module disposed inside the modular enclosure;

a camera module disposed inside the modular enclosure;

a reflex sight assembly disposed on an exterior surface of the modular enclosure;

an optical magnifier coupled to an exterior surface of the housing; and

a processing system disposed within the housing, the processing system including at least one processor and memory storing executable instructions.

2. The integral reflex sight of claim 1, wherein the modular enclosure defines a first receptacle configured to receive the laser range finder module and a second receptacle configured to receive the camera module.

3. The integral reflex sight of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the reflex sight assembly further includes a display and at least one optical element in communication, wherein the display is configured to display a display output.

4. The integral reflex sight of any of the preceding claims, wherein the camera module further comprises a plurality of camera assemblies.

5. The integral reflex sight of claim 4, wherein the plurality of camera assemblies include at least first, second, and third camera assemblies configured for short-range, intermediate-range, and long-range imaging, respectively.

6. The integral reflex sight of claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the processing system is configured to selectively switch between the plurality of camera assemblies to maintain a substantially full field of view on the display.

7. The integral reflex sight of any of the preceding claims, the laser range module further comprises at least one optical emitter configured to emit a pulsed optical signal toward a target, and an optical receiver configured to detect a return signal reflected from the target.

8. The integral reflex sight of any of the preceding claims, further comprising:

a pivot assembly coupled to the housing, wherein the optical magnifier is removably coupled to the pivot assembly and movable between a deployed position and a stowed position, and

wherein in the deployed position an optical axis of the optical magnifier is in optical alignment with an optical axis of the reflex sight assembly, and in the stowed position the optical axis of the optical magnifier is out of optical alignment with the optical axis of the reflex sight assembly.

9. The integral reflex sight of claim 8, further comprising a switch assembly configured to detect whether the optical magnifier is in the deployed position or the stowed position.

10. The integral reflex sight of any of the preceding claims, wherein the display output is modified based on the detected position of the optical magnifier.

11. The integral reflex sight of any of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one rail clamp assembly coupled to the housing, wherein the at least one rail clamp assembly is configured to detachably couple the integral reflex sight to a rail interface.

12. The integral reflex sight of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a wireless communication interface configured to exchange data and communication with at least one external device.

13. The integral reflex sight of any of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one battery disposed in the housing.

14. The integral reflex sight of any of the preceding claims, wherein the processing system is configured to:

receive range data from the laser range module and calculate a distance to target based on the range data;

select one of the plurality of camera assemblies based at least in part on the range data;

generate display output including an electronic reticle having a position adjusted according to a ballistic solution; and

provide the display output for presentation on the display.

15. The integral reflex sight of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a connector disposed on the housing and configured to operably couple a payload programming remote control unit.

16. The integral reflex sight of claim 15, wherein the payload programming remote control unit is configured to transmit programming information for setting a detonation distance of a programmable munition.

17. The integral reflex sight of claim 16, wherein the processing system is configured to set an initial detonation distance based on a distance determined by the laser range finder module and to permit incremental adjustment of the detonation distance via inputs received from the remote control unit.

18. The integral reflex sight of any of the preceding claims, wherein the reflex sight assembly further comprises a front mechanical sight and a rear mechanical sight.

19. The integral reflex sight of claim 18, further comprising:

each of the front mechanical sight and the rear mechanical sight being pivotably coupled to a reflex sight housing of the reflex sight assembly; and

each of the front mechanical sight and the rear mechanical sight being configured to move between a deployed position configured for use as an aiming reference and a stowed position wherein the front mechanical sight and the rear mechanical sight are substantially out of a field of view of the reflex sight assembly.

Drawing