• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
  • 类似技术
  • 同族专利
  • 引用文献
  • 法律状态
  • 优先权
    • 专利摘要:
    A gun sight includes a housing, an artificial light source, a light transmission rod, and a mount. The housing is designed to be attached to a firearm. The artificial light source is carried in the housing. The light transmission rod is placed in a cavity of the housing and positioned adjacent to the artificial light source. The light transmission rod is designed to collect and transmit both ambient light and light from the artificial light source. The bracket removably engages the housing and fixes the light transmission rod in the cavity. Removing the bracket provides access to replace the light transmission rod.
    公开号:CH717648A2
    申请号:CH70085/21
    申请日:2021-07-21
    公开日:2022-01-31
    发明作者:J Iii Salamon Edward；Renee Thornton Nicole；James Lichon Richard
    申请人:Trijicon Inc；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    TECHNICAL AREA
    The present disclosure relates to a sight for firearms or other projectile launchers, and more particularly to a self-illuminating sight having a replaceable light collection device and an artificial light source.
    BACKGROUND
    [0002] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.
    [0003] Sights for firearms, archery, or other projectile launchers often utilize fiber optic segments to detect ambient light along their length and transmit the light from their ends. Under ideal lighting conditions, one end of the fiber optic serves as a bright aiming point. For use in low light conditions, some sights include an artificial light source, such as an LED or tritium light source, to provide light to the fiber optics.
    It has been found that the fiber optics used in some sights have a finite lifespan. For example, damage to the fiber can render the product inferior. If the fiber optic has been damaged, the sight assembly may need to be replaced.
    SUMMARY
    [0005] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure and is not an exhaustive disclosure of its entire scope or all of its features.
    [0006] An embodiment of a sight for a firearm according to the present disclosure includes a housing, an artificial light source, a light transmission rod, and a mount. The housing is designed to be attached to a firearm. The artificial light source is stored inside the housing. The light transmission rod is placed in a cavity of the housing and positioned adjacent to the artificial light source. The light transmission rod is designed to collect and transmit both ambient light and light from the artificial light source. The bracket removably engages the housing and fixes the light transmission rod within the cavity. Removing the bracket provides access to replace the light transmission rod.
    In at least one exemplary embodiment, the artificial light source is a tritium light source or an LED.
    In at least one exemplary embodiment, an end of the artificial light source is axially aligned with an end of the light transmission rod.
    In at least one embodiment, the artificial light source illuminates an axial surface of the light transmission rod.
    In at least one embodiment, the light transmission rod is a fiber optic rod.
    In at least one embodiment, the bracket is press fitted into the cavity in the housing.
    In at least one embodiment, the retainer includes threads that threadably engage an interior surface of the cavity in the housing.
    In at least one embodiment, the visor may include a polymeric patch on the threads of the mount.
    In at least one embodiment, the light transmission rod axially abuts the mount such that after the mount is removed from the housing, the light transmission rod is slidably removable from the cavity.
    In at least one embodiment, the mount defines an axially extending aperture and the light transmission rod is aligned with the axially extending aperture to provide a target reference.
    In at least one embodiment, an axially outer end face of the fixture has a colored coating or paint to provide a secondary target reference.
    In at least one embodiment, the housing has a longitudinal opening into the cavity, the longitudinal opening exposing at least an upper half of the light transmission rod.
    In at least one embodiment, an outer surface of the mount has a tool engagement surface.
    [0019] At least one embodiment of a sight for a firearm according to the present disclosure includes a housing, an artificial light source, a light transmission rod, and a mount. The housing is designed to be attached to a firearm and has a cavity therein. The artificial light source is arranged in the cavity of the housing. The light transmission rod is positioned within the cavity of the housing and is axially coupled to illumination from the artificial light source. The light transmission rod is designed to collect and transmit both ambient light and light from the artificial light source. The bracket removably engages the housing and fixes the light transmission rod within the cavity. Removing the bracket provides access to replace the light transmission rod.
    In at least one embodiment, the artificial light source is a tritium lamp.
    In at least one embodiment, the artificial light source is a light emitting diode.
    In at least one embodiment, the light transmission rod is a fiber optic rod.
    In at least one embodiment, the bracket has threads that threadably engage an inner surface of the cavity in the housing, or the bracket is press-fit into the cavity in the housing.
    In at least one embodiment, the light transmission rod axially abuts the mount such that after the mount is removed from the housing, the light transmission rod is slidably removable from the cavity.
    In at least one embodiment, an outer surface of the mount has a tool engagement surface.
    In at least one embodiment, the tool engagement surface is one of a hex, square, Phillips, Phillips, star, torx, flat head, slotted, or wrench engagement surface.
    [0027] At least one embodiment of a sight for a firearm according to the present disclosure includes a housing, an artificial light source, a light transmission rod, and a mount. The housing is designed to be attached to a firearm. The artificial light source is arranged inside the housing. The light transmission rod is positioned in the housing. The light transmission rod is designed to collect and transmit both ambient light and light from the artificial light source. The mount threadably engages the housing and fixes the light transmission rod within the housing. The mount defines an axially extending aperture that is aligned with the light transmission rod to provide a target reference. Removing the bracket provides access to replace the light transmission rod.
    Other areas of use will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
    DRAWINGS
    The drawings described herein are for the purpose of illustrating selected embodiments only and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
    Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary firearm incorporating at least one embodiment of a sight assembly in accordance with the present disclosure.
    Figure 2 is a perspective view of at least one embodiment of a rear sight or rear sight of the sighting device in Figure 1.
    Figure 3 is a side view of the rear sight of Figure 2.
    Figure 4 is a user's view of the rear sight of Figure 2.
    Figure 5 is an end view of the rear visor of Figure 2.
    Figure 6 is a plan view of the rear sight of Figure 2.
    Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the rear sight taken at arrows 7-7 in Figure 6.
    Figure 8 is a perspective view of at least one embodiment of a front sight or front sight of the sighting device in Figure 1.
    Figure 9 is another perspective view of the front visor in Figure 8.
    Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the front visor in Figure 8 taken along a longitudinal axis of the front visor.
    Figure 11 is an exploded view of the front visor in Figure 8.
    Figure 12 is a perspective view of at least one embodiment of a front sight of the sight assembly of Figure 1.
    Figure 13 is another perspective view of the front visor in Figure 12.
    Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the front visor in Figure 12 taken along a longitudinal axis of the front visor.
    Figure 15 is an exploded view of the front visor of Figure 12.
    Figure 16 is a perspective view of at least one embodiment of a front sight of the sight assembly of Figure 1.
    Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the front visor in Figure 16 taken along a longitudinal axis of the front visor.
    Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the front visor taken along arrows 18-18 in Figure 16.
    Figure 19 is an exploded view of the front visor of Figure 16.
    Figure 20 is a sectional view of a cross-sectional view taken along a longitudinal axis of at least one embodiment of a firearm having a sight with a dovetail mount.
    Figure 21 is a sectional view of a cross-sectional view taken along a longitudinal axis of at least one embodiment of a firearm having a sight with a boss attachment.
    [0051] Like reference characters indicate like parts throughout the several views of the drawings.
    DETAILED DESCRIPTION
    Embodiments will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
    Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that none of these should be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosure. In some embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.
    The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprising", "comprising", "including" and "having" are inclusive and thus indicate the presence of the specified feature, number, step, operation, element and/or component, but exclude the presence or addition of any .does not exclude any other feature, number, step, operation, element, component and/or group thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed to necessarily require their performance in the particular order discussed or presented, unless specifically stated as an order of performance. It is also understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.
    When an element or layer is referred to as "on", "engages with", "connected to" or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged with , bonded or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged with," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, no intervening elements or layers may be present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
    [0056] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and/or sections, those elements, components, regions, layers, and/or sections are not intended to be replaced by these terms be limited. These terms may be used solely to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms used herein do not imply a sequence or order, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or portion discussed below could be defined as a second element, component, region, layer, or portion second section, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.
    [0057] Spatially relative terms such as "inner", "outer", "below", "below", "lower", "above", "upper" and the like may be used herein for ease of description to indicate the relationship of an element or feature to other element(s) or feature(s) as shown in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example term "under" can include both an orientation above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein construed accordingly.
    A sighting device with a replaceable light transmission rod is described herein. The sight provides the user with target references in both daylight and low light through the use of an interchangeable light transmission rod or segment held in place with a removable bracket and combined with an artificial light source. In at least one embodiment, the sight device may be an open sight. In at least one embodiment, the light transmission rod may be a polished segment of fiber. In at least one embodiment, the light transmission rod or segment may be fiber optic. In at least one embodiment, the light sensing rod may be cut to maximize light capture capability and daylight brightness. In at least one embodiment, the artificial light source can be an LED or a tritium light source. In at least one embodiment, the fastener may be a threaded fastener, a press-fit fastener, a snap-fit fastener, or a cross-pin fastener.
    In at least one embodiment, the light transmission rod senses ambient light at daylight brightness. The light transmission rod directs the light longitudinally down the light transmission rod to an end where the light is transmitted from the light transmission rod to provide a target reference during the day. In at least one embodiment, the light transmission rod is combined with the artificial light source to detect artificial light in low light conditions. The light transmission rod directs the artificial light longitudinally down the light transmission rod to the end where the artificial light is transmitted by the light transmission rod to provide a target reference in low light.
    In at least one embodiment, an end of the artificial or secondary light source is axially aligned with an end of the light transmission rod such that light from the artificial light source propagates axially into the end of the light transmission rod. By aligning the artificial light source axially with the light transmission rod, increased brightness is provided compared to other arrangements that have a lateral orientation or an orientation of the artificial light source along a longitudinal side of the light transmission rod. For example, the end of the artificial or secondary light source may be axially coupled and aligned with the end of the light transmission rod. While the artificial light source is described as being axially aligned with the light transmission rod, it should be understood that alternative embodiments may include side-coupling or other configurations.
    In at least one embodiment, the mount allows for user-level replacement of the light transmission rod. The mount secures the light transmission rod in a body of the sight. In at least one embodiment, the mount has a tool engagement surface that allows removal of the mount from the body and access to the light transmission rod for removal and replacement. In at least one embodiment, the tool engagement surface may be a torx engagement surface, a star engagement surface, a hex engagement surface, a square engagement surface, a Phillips engagement surface, a cross engagement surface, a slotted engagement surface, a wrench engagement surface, a flat head engagement surface, etc.
    In at least one embodiment utilizing a threaded fastener, the fastener may include a polymeric patch on the threads to prevent the fastener from rotating out of the body. Alternative embodiments may use other materials to secure the fastener, such as glue, threadlocker, etc. In at least one alternative embodiment using a threaded fastener, the threads may be right-hand threads. Right-hand threads do not require a polymeric patch or other retention mechanism since natural moments applied by the impact of firing the firearm will cause right-hand threads to self-tighten.
    In at least one embodiment, the bracket may be a machined metal component. Alternatively, in at least one embodiment, the mount may be injection molded, for example an injection molded polymer. By injection molding a polymer, slight dimensional modifications may be possible to provide an interference fit with the visor body threads to lock the retainer in place and eliminate the need for thread patches, threadlockers, adhesives, etc. Injection molding of a polymer can also allow for brackets of different hues without additional coating or paint.
    The sight assemblies discussed in the present disclosure are advantageous over prior art sight assemblies in that the removable mount that engages the body of the sight provides easy and repeatable access to the light transmission rod, allowing for light transmission rod replacement . It has been found that some sights that utilize light transmission rods, such as fiber optic rods, in conjunction with artificial light sources, such as tritium light sources, can have limited lifetimes. For example, the fiber optic rod may become damaged and the prior art product may need to be replaced. The removable mount of the sights discussed herein, on the other hand, provides access to the light transmission rod, allowing for replacement of the light transmission rod and giving renewed life to the sight. Additionally, the ability to change the light transmission rod allows a user to change the tint of the light transmission wand or to personalize the removable mount (i.e., different tints or coatings). The customizable nature of the sights in the present disclosure is beneficial to users using the same firearm (with the same sight assembly) in varying environments, conditions and situations where different tints or customization options are desirable.
    Referring now to Figure 1, at least one embodiment of a sight assembly 10 attached to an exemplary firearm 14 is illustrated. The gun 14 can be any gun 14 that accepts a sight 10 . The sight assembly 10 may include a front sight or front sight 18 and a rear sight or rear sight 22 . In at least one embodiment, the rear visor 22 may be similar to the front visor 18 in that the rear visor 22 may include two front visor assemblies 18 assembled into a single visor.
    In at least one embodiment, the front sight 18 and rear sight 22 may be attached to a slide 26 of the firearm 14. More specifically, the front sight 18 and rear sight 22 may be attached to a top of the slide 26 and at opposite ends 30, 34 so that the sights 18, 22 can be viewed by a firearm operator and the front sight 18 with the Rear sight 22 can be aligned to indicate a point of aim for the firearm 14.
    Referring now to Figures 2-7, at least one embodiment of the rear sight 22 is illustrated. In at least one embodiment, the rear sight 22 includes a base or housing 38 that defines a pair of aiming reference assemblies 42, 46 separated by a channel 50. As shown in FIG. A lower surface 54 of the base 38 includes a gun mount 58 for attaching the rear sight 22 to the gun 14 . In at least one embodiment, the gun mount 58 may protrude from the bottom surface 54 of the base 38 and may include at least one surface 62 (62a, 62b, 62c, etc.) that the gun 14 engages. The gun mount 58 shown in Figure 2 is a dovetail mount 58. However, the gun mount 58 can be any shaped mount for securing the rear sight 22 to the gun 14, such as a rounded boss, a circular boss, an oval shaped boss, a rectangular ledge, a polygonal ledge, etc.
    In at least one embodiment, the base 38 may define front pillars 66, 70 and rear pillars 74, 78 housing the pair of target reference assemblies 42, 46, respectively. Channel 50 may be a U-shaped channel and spars 66, 70, 74, 78 may each define a leg of the U-shaped channel. In at least one embodiment, as best shown in Figures 4 and 5, each of the rails 66,70,74,78 has an inner wall 82,86,90,94. The front rails 66, 70 may each have inner walls 82, 86 facing each other (Figure 5) and the rear rails 74, 78 may have inner walls 90, 94 facing each other (Figure 4).
    In at least one embodiment, the inner walls 82, 86, 90, 94 may extend vertically from a rounded base 98 of the U-shaped channel 50 to a respective inner corner 102, 106, 110, 114 of each spar 66, 70, 74, 78 extend. Alternatively, the interior walls 82, 86, 90, 94 may extend at an angle, either toward a center of the U-shaped channel 50 or away from the center of the U-shaped channel 50. An upper surface 118, 122, 126, 130, which extends parallel with the lower surface 54 of the base 38, may extend away from the inner wall 82, 86, 90, 94 on each spar 66, 70, 74, 78, respectively.
    In at least one embodiment, an outer wall 134, 138, 142, 146 may extend at an angle away from the respective top surface 118, 122, 126, 130 and terminate at the bottom surface 54 of the base 38. The outer wall 134, 138, 142, 146 may join the respective top surface 118, 122, 126, 130 at a rounded corner 150, 154, 158, 162 to add aesthetics, remove sharp edges, and reduce notch effects to reduce.
    In at least one embodiment, the outer wall 134, 138, 142, 146 may be angled at an angle in a range of 105° to 165°, and more specifically at an angle of 120°, with respect to the top surface 118, 122, be 126, 130. The outer wall 134, 138, 142, 146 may also be at an angle in a range of 30° to 75°, and more specifically at an angle of 60°, with respect to the lower surface 54 of the base 38.
    In at least one embodiment, the outer wall 134, 138, 142, 146 may be aligned with one of respective outer walls 166, 170 of the gun mount 58 such that when viewed from the end of the rear sight 22, the outer walls 134, 138, 142, 146, the outer walls 166, 170, the lower surface 62b and the upper surfaces 118, 122, 126, 130 form a trapezoidal shape.
    In at least one embodiment, the front rails 66, 70 may be separated from the rear rails 74, 78 by a cutout 174 in the base 38, as best shown in FIGS. The cutout 174 may be a U-shaped cutout with beveled or angled legs. The tapered legs may be defined by a front surface 178 of each of the rear rails 74,78 and a rear surface 182 of each of the front rails 66,70.
    In at least one embodiment, each of the rear spars 74, 78 may define a cavity for receiving a first portion or end of a light transmission rod 186. As shown in FIG. Each of the front spars 66, 70 may also define a cavity for receiving a second portion or end of the light transmission rod 186. Referring now to FIG.
    The light transmission wand 186 may be a wand configured to collect light (i.e., a light directing wand) and transmit light (e.g., ambient light, artificial light, or a combination thereof). In at least one embodiment, light transmission rod 186 may be formed of a light-sensing fluorescent polymeric material, fiber optic material, or other light-conducting material. For example, the light transmission rod 186 can be a fiber optic rod, a polymer rod (such as plastic), or other light-conducting rod. In at least one embodiment, light transmission rod 186 may be a cylindrical rod. However, the cylindrical rod is just an example, and it is understood that the light transmission rod 186 can have any cross-sectional shape.
    For purposes of simplicity, the arrangement of the light transmission rod 186, front pillar 66, rear pillar 74, and internal components of each target reference assembly 42 are illustrated and described with reference to Figures 8-19 described below. The embodiments in each of Figures 8-19 described below may be incorporated into each of the target reference assemblies 42, 46 and each of the pairs of front spars 66, 70 and rear spars 74, 78, respectively.
    Referring now to Figures 8-11, an embodiment of the front shield 18 is illustrated. As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the front visor 18, similar to the rear visor (but only half of the rear visor as previously described), has a base or housing 200 having a front pillar 204 and a rear pillar 208 formed by a cutout 212 defined by the front rail 204 and the rear rail 208 are separated. The cutout 212 may be a U-shaped cutout with angled legs defined by a rear surface 216 of the front rail 204 and a front surface 220 of the rear rail 208 . For example, the rear surface 216 of the front rail 204 can extend at an angle in a range of 95° to 130° relative to a base 224 of the cutout 212, and the front surface 220 of the rear rail 208 can be at an angle in a range of 92° to 130° relative to the base 224 of the cutout 212. The angled rear surface 216 and front surface 220 can allow for maximum exposure of a light transmission rod 228 carried by the front 204 and rear 208 columns.
    As previously described, protrusion 232 may include at least one surface 240 (i.e., 240a, 240b, etc.) that engages firearm 14. The projection 232 shown in Figure 9 is an oval shaped projection. However, the protrusion 232 may be any shaped attachment for securing the front sight 18 to the firearm 14, such as a rounded protrusion, a circular protrusion, a rectangular protrusion, a polygonal protrusion, a dovetail protrusion, etc. In at least one embodiment, the protrusion 232 have a threaded opening 244 adapted to engage a threaded rod (not shown) and secure the front sight 18 to the firearm 14.
    In at least one embodiment, the base 200 can define an opening 248 adjacent the protrusion 232. FIG. Opening 248 may provide access for adhesive dispensing and/or application during assembly. In some embodiments, adhesive may be used to bond the secondary or artificial light source to the front rail cavity.
    Referring now to Figures 10 and 11, the base 200 may house a target reference assembly 252. The target reference assembly 252 may include a mount 256, the light transmission rod 228, and an artificial light source 260. FIG. In at least one embodiment, the front spar 204 can define a cavity 264 for supporting the artificial light source 260 and a front end 268 of the light transmission rod 228 . The cavity 264 may be an elongated bore that extends from a front surface 272 to a rear surface 216 of the front rail 204 . In at least one embodiment, cavity 264 may be a cylindrical bore. In at least one alternate embodiment, cavity 264 may have any cross-sectional shape that conforms to a cross-sectional shape of at least one of artificial light source 260 and front end 268 of light transmission rod 228 .
    In at least one embodiment, the threaded opening 244 of the gun mount 232 and/or the opening 248 in the base 200 may intersect the cavity 264 in the front rail 204. Accordingly, the threaded rod (not shown) received through threaded opening 244 in gun mount 232 may serve the dual purpose of retaining artificial light source 260 within cavity 264 . For example, the threaded rod holding artificial light source 260 within cavity 264 may be particularly useful when artificial light source 260 is a non-radioluminescent light source. Additionally or alternatively, a pin received by opening 248 in base 200 may serve the dual purpose of retaining artificial light source 260 within cavity 264 . For example, a pin that serves the dual purpose of holding artificial light source 260 within cavity 264 may be particularly useful when artificial light source 260 is a non-radioluminescent light source.
    In at least one embodiment, an artificial or secondary light source 260 may be configured to provide artificial or generated light to the light transmission rod 228 . For example, the artificial light source 260 may be formed from a material that includes phosphorescent or long-lasting pigments. In at least one embodiment, artificial light source 260 may be a radioluminescent or radioactive light emitting light source, such as a tritium light source or tube. The tritium tube may be made from a borosilicate tube coated on its inner surface with a phosphorus compound. The tube houses tritium gas which reacts with the phosphorus compound to produce light in the visible spectrum (e.g. red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet hues of light can be produced by different compositions of the phosphorus compound). In at least one alternative embodiment, another type of artificial or secondary light source may be used, such as a light emitting diode (LED) (e.g., a battery powered or otherwise powered LED) or other powered light source.
    In at least one embodiment, when the artificial light source 260 includes a tritium light source, a tritium tube 276 may be disposed within a sleeve or capsule 280. FIG. The tritium tube 276 can be an envelope that encapsulates the tritium or other radioactive material. The sleeve 280 may have a continuous sidewall (e.g., tubular sidewalls, such as cylindrical sidewalls or sidewalls of any cross-sectional shape that conforms to a cross-sectional shape of the tritium tube 276) 284, an end cap or capsule first end 288 (or base, plug, etc.) and a cover or second capsule end 292 (or cap, plug, etc.). End cap 288 may be integrally formed with sidewall 284 . Alternatively, end cap 288 may be affixed to sidewall 284 by any means of attachment, including adhesive, press fitting, heat sealing, fastening, clamping, and the like. The sleeve 280 can protectively shield the tritium tube 276 in the cavity 264 . In at least one embodiment, the cover 292 may be formed from a transparent shock-absorbing or deformable material, such as silicone, etc. In at least one embodiment, cover 292 may be a lens.
    A diameter of the cover 292 may be greater than an inside diameter of the sidewalls 284 but less than an outside diameter of the sidewalls such that the cover 292 fits into a recess or stepped portion 296 at a free end 300 of the sidewalls 284. In at least one embodiment, cover 292 may be sealed to sidewall 284 to seal the internal components (i.e., tritium tubes) within sleeve 280. Additionally, the diameter of cover 292 can fit within a reduced diameter portion or shelf 304 in cavity 264 . Shoulder 304 may prevent sidewall 284 of sleeve 280 (and tritium tube 276) from moving rearwardly within front spar 204 .
    In at least one embodiment, the sidewalls 284, end cap 288, and cover 292 of the sleeve 280 may be formed of a translucent or transparent material so that radiant energy can pass therethrough and impinge on the light transmission rod 228. For example, sidewalls 284, end cap 288, and cover 292 may be formed of glass (such as borosilicate glass), a polymer (such as plastic), a fluorinated polymer (such as Teflon®), other suitable materials, or a combination thereof.
    In at least one embodiment, the light transmission rod 228 may be positioned adjacent the artificial light source 260 and more specifically abutting the cover 292 at the free end 300 of the sleeve 280. While Figure 10 shows the light transmission rod 228 abutting the cover 292 of the sleeve 280, it should be understood that the light transmission rod 228 may abut a light emitting end of an LED or other artificial light source instead of the tritium artificial light source.
    In at least one embodiment, light from artificial light source 260 propagates axially into light transmission rod 228 . In at least one embodiment, light transmission rod 228 may be the same as or similar to light transmission rod 186 . The light transmission rod 228 can be a rod configured to collect light (i.e., a light directing rod) and transmit light (e.g., ambient light, artificial light, or a combination thereof). In at least one embodiment, the light transmission rod 186 may be formed of a light-sensing fluorescent polymeric material, fiber optic material, another light-conducting material, or a combination thereof. For example, the light transmission rod 186 may be a fiber optic rod, a polymeric rod (such as plastic), a fluorescer-doped fiber optic, or other light-conducting rod. With a suitable fiber optic rod, when radiation is received along a length of the fiber optic rod, energy is absorbed in the fiber optic at a first wavelength. The energy is then emitted at both ends of the fiber optic at a longer wavelength than the first wavelength. Thus, a proportional amount of radiation is emitted at the ends of the fiber optic while the radiation is absorbed. For example, a suitable fiber optic rod may consist of a core material doped to transmit the desired wavelength of light and a fluoropolymer liner to shield the core from chemical stress. However, it should be understood that the light transmission rod 228 is not limited to the material discussed herein and could be made of any material that collects and transmits light.
    In at least one embodiment, the light transmission rod 186 can be a cylindrical rod. However, the cylindrical rod is just an example, and it is understood that the light transmission rod 186 can have any cross-sectional shape. Other cross-sectional shapes may include oval, polygonal, rectangular, triangular, arcuate, and so on. Further, it is understood that a length, diameter, thickness, etc. of the light transmission rod 228 may vary based on the dimensions of the sighting device 10 .
    When the cover 292 is held on the artificial light source 260 in the ledge 304 of the cavity 264, the light transmission rod 186 can abut the ledge 304 to axially position the light transmission rod 186 relative to the cover 292 and abut the cover 292. to take light from it.
    The rear spar 208 may define a cavity 308 for supporting the mount 256 and a rear end 312 of the light transmission rod 228. FIG. In at least one embodiment, the cavity 308 may be a tubular opening that extends a longitudinal length of the rear rail 208 . The cavity 308 may include a neck 316 and a body 320 , with the neck 316 having a reduced diameter for receiving the light transmission rod 228 and the body 320 having a larger diameter for receiving the mount 256 .
    [0091] The bracket 256 may be configured to removably secure the light transmission rod 228 within the cavity 308. FIG. In at least one embodiment, bracket 256 may have threads 324 that mate with internal threads 328 on body 320 of cavity 308 to secure bracket 256 within cavity 308 . In at least one embodiment, the mount 256 may include a tool engagement surface 332 configured to receive a tool to engage and disengage the threads 324 from the internal threads 328 and selectively allow access to the light transmission rod 228 . For example, the tool engagement surface 332 may be a Torx tool engagement surface, such as a T10 Torx engagement surface as illustrated, a star engagement surface, a hex engagement surface, a square engagement surface, a Phillips engagement surface, a cross engagement surface, a slot engagement surface, a wrench engagement surface, a flat head engagement surface, or any other engagement feature.
    In at least one embodiment, the bracket 256 may have an opening 336 along a longitudinal axis and aligned with a longitudinal axis of the body 320 and the neck 316 such that in an end view the opening 336 is concentric with the body 320 and the neck 316. A diameter of opening 336 may be smaller than a diameter of neck 316 and smaller than a diameter of light transmission rod 228 . Aperture 336 may provide an exit for the light transmitted through light transmission rod 228 and a targeting reference for front sight 18 .
    In at least one embodiment, the bracket 256 may be a machined metal component. Alternatively, the mount 256 can be an injection molded polymer. For example, the bracket 256 can be made with an interference fit to lock the bracket 256 in the body 320 . In at least one embodiment, a polymeric patch, adhesive, threadlocker, etc. may be used to secure the threads 324 on the bracket 256 to the internal threads 328 in the body 320 . Alternatively, the threads 324 on the mount 256 and the internal threads 328 in the body 320 may be right-hand threads so that the mount 256 will self-tighten with the force applied when the firearm 14 is fired.
    In at least one embodiment, fixture 256 may be a secondary target reference. For example, mount 256 may have a colored coating, paint, tint, colored material, etc. to differentiate mount 256 from base 200 and light transmission rod 228 . Alternatively, the mount may have a colored coating, paint, dye, colored material, etc. that distinguishes mount 256 from base 200 but matches light transmission rod 228 . The coating, paint, tint, material, etc. can be fluorescent, glossy, matte, any shade, or have any surface effect that provides a secondary target reference for a user.
    In at least one embodiment, the light transmission rod 186 is exposed to natural light or sunlight in the cutout 212 while the light transmission rod 186 extends between the cavity 264 in the front rail 204 and the cavity 308 in the back rail 208.
    In use, the artificial light source 260 is secured in the cavity 264 of the front rail 204 by the threaded rod (not shown) in the threaded opening 244 and/or the pin (not shown) in the opening 248. The artificial light source 260 is held in position in the shelf 304 in the cavity 264 and more specifically a cover 292 for the artificial light source 260 is held in the shelf 304 .
    The forward end 268 of the light transmission rod 228 can be inserted through the cavity 308 (through both the body 320 and the neck 316), through the cutout 212 and into the cavity 264 abutting the shoulder 304 and the artificial light source 260 will. In at least one embodiment, the front end 268 of the light transmission rod 228 abuts the cover 292 for the tritium tube 276 .
    When the front end 268 of the light transmission rod 228 abuts the shoulder 304, the light transmission rod 228 extends through the cutout 212 and into the neck 316 and body 320 of the cavity 308 in the rear rail 208. The mount 256 is in the body 320 of the Cavity 308 in the rear rail 208 engages. More specifically, threads 324 engage internal threads 328 in body 320 to secure retainer 256 in cavity 308 . In at least one embodiment, a tool engages tool engagement surface 332 on bracket 256 to screw bracket 256 into cavity 308 . In at least one embodiment, a polymeric patch, adhesive, threadlocker, etc. may be used to secure the threads 324 on the bracket 256 to the internal threads 328 in the body 320 . Alternatively, the threads 324 on the mount 256 and the internal threads 328 in the body 320 may be right-hand threads so that the mount 256 will self-tighten with the force applied when the firearm 14 is fired. Alternatively, the threaded mount 256 can be an injection molded polymer. For example, the injection molded bracket 256 can be made with an interference fit to lock the bracket 256 in the body 320 .
    In daylight conditions, the light transmission rod 228 is exposed to light along its length in the cutout 212 of the base 200. FIG. Light incident on the light transmission rod 228 is absorbed (e.g. by the fiber optics), transmitted along a length of the light transmission rod 228 and is emitted at the rear end 312 of the light transmission rod 228 . The rear end 312 is viewable by a user through the aperture 336 in the tool engagement surface 332 of the mount 256 to thereby provide an illuminated sighting point or aiming reference for alignment with a desired target.
    In low light conditions, the light transmission rod 228 is exposed to artificial light at the front end 268 or axial face adjacent to the artificial light source 260. FIG. Light incident on the front end 268 or the axial surface of the light transmission rod 228 is absorbed (e.g. by the fiber optics), transmitted along a length of the light transmission rod 228 and is emitted at the rear end 312 of the light transmission rod 228 . The rear end 312 is viewable by a user through the aperture 336 in the tool engagement surface 332 of the mount 256 to thereby provide an illuminated sighting point or aiming reference for alignment with a desired target.
    In low light conditions, the light transmission rod 228 may be additionally exposed to light along its length in the cutout 212 of the base 200. The light incident on the light transmission rod 228 is absorbed (e.g., through the fiber optics), combined with the artificial light from the artificial light source 260, transmitted along a length of the light transmission rod 228 with the artificial light, and is emitted in combination at the rear end 312 of the light transmission rod 228.
    If a user wishes to replace the light transmission rod 228 for any reason (for example, to change the color of the light transmission rod or to install a new light transmission rod 228), a tool with a tool head that matches the tool engagement surface 332 can engage the tool engagement surface 332 to be brought. In at least one embodiment, the tool head (not shown) can be rotated counterclockwise to loosen the threads 324 on the bracket 256 from the internal threads 328 on the rear rail 208 . Loosening the threads 324 on the mount 256 from the internal threads 328 moves the mount 256 out of axial engagement with the rearward end 312 of the light transmission rod 228 . In at least one alternate embodiment, the tool head (not shown) can be rotated clockwise to loosen the threads 324 on the bracket 256 from the internal threads 328 on the rear rail 208 .
    When the mount 256 is completely removed from the cavity 308 in the back spar 208, the light transmission rod 228 can be removed from the cavity 264 in the front spar 204, the cutout 212 and the cavity 308 in the back spar 208. A new or different light transmission rod 228 may be inserted through cavity 308 and cutout 212 and into cavity 264 adjacent artificial light source 260 and/or shelf 304 . For example, the light transmission rod 228 can move into engagement with the artificial light source 260, it can be positioned to abut the artificial light source 260, it can be positioned to abut the shelf 304, or a combination thereof.
    The bracket 256 may be reinserted into the cavity 308 by aligning the bracket 256 with the longitudinal axis of the body 320 and neck 316 of the cavity 308 and rotating the bracket 256 to align the threads 324 on the bracket 256 with the Internal threads 328 of cavity 308 to engage. In at least one embodiment, the bracket 256 can be rotated clockwise to engage the threads 324 on the bracket 256 with the internal threads 328 on the rear rail 208 . In at least one alternative embodiment, the bracket can be rotated counterclockwise to engage the threads 324 on the bracket 256 with the internal threads 328 on the rear rail 208 . In at least one embodiment, a tool having a tool head that mates with tool engagement surface 332 may be engaged with tool engagement surface 332 on fixture 256 and rotated to secure fixture 256 in cavity 308 . The bracket 256 can be rotated until the bracket 256 axially abuts or engages the rear end 312 of the light transmission rod 228 .
    Referring now to Figures 12-15, at least one embodiment of a sight 400 is illustrated. The visor 400 can be similar to the visor 18 . In at least one embodiment, the visor 400 may include a base or housing 404 . A front rail 408 and a rear rail 412 may be separated by and define a cutout 416 . While front rail 408 and rear rail 412 may be similar to front rail 204 and rear rail 208, front rail 408 and rear rail 412 may be connected by brackets 420 that enclose the corners of cutout 416 and windows or longitudinal openings 424 that provide access to the cutout 416 . In at least one embodiment, the brackets 420 may be integrally formed with the front rail 408 and the rear rail 412 . Although the visor 400 is illustrated and described as having straps 420 , it should be understood that the visor 400 may be similar to the visor 18 and may not have straps 420 but instead may have an open cutout similar to cutout 212 .
    In at least one embodiment, a protrusion 428 may extend from a bottom surface 432 of the base 404 opposite the front 408 and rear 412 rails. The protrusion 428 can serve as a mount for the firearm 14 . Protrusion 428 may be the same as protrusion 232 . In at least one alternative embodiment, protrusion 428 may be any shaped attachment for securing sight 400 to firearm 14, such as a rounded protrusion, a circular protrusion, a rectangular protrusion, a polygonal protrusion, a dovetail protrusion, etc.
    Referring to Figures 14 and 15, in at least one embodiment, a target reference assembly 436 may be carried in a cavity 440 in the front spar 408 and a cavity 444 in the rear spar 412. The target reference assembly 436 may be similar to the target reference assembly 252 and may include a mount 448 , a light transmission rod 452 , and an artificial light source 456 . In at least one embodiment, cavity 440 can support artificial light source 456 and a front end 460 of light transmission rod 452 and cavity 444 can support bracket 448 and a rear end 464 of light transmission rod 452 .
    In at least one embodiment, light transmission rod 452 may be similar to light transmission rod 228. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, artificial light source 456 may be the same as or similar to artificial light source 260 .
    In at least one embodiment, retainer 448 may be configured to secure light transmission rod 452 within cavity 444. In at least one embodiment, the bracket 448 may be a snap-fit bracket and may include a shoulder 468 in a sidewall 470 of the bracket 448 that mates or engages a channel or groove 472 on a body 476 of the cavity 444. to secure bracket 448 in cavity 444. In at least one embodiment, mount 448 may be a tubular mount having a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, it should be understood that the support 448 is not limited to a cylindrical shape and could have any cross-sectional shape, such as an elliptical shape, a rectangular shape, a square shape, a triangular shape, a hexagonal shape, etc.
    In at least one embodiment, bracket 448 may include an opening 480 that extends a length of bracket 448 along a longitudinal axis and is aligned with a longitudinal axis of cavity 444 such that in an end view, opening 480 communicates with body 476 and a neck 484 of cavity 444 is concentric. Aperture 480 may include a support portion 488 and a target portion 492 , support portion 488 having a diameter greater than a diameter of a bore 494 in target portion 492 . The diameter of the support portion 488 of the opening 480 can be equal to or in a range of 0 to 5% larger or smaller than a diameter of the neck 484 and equal to or slightly larger (e.g. 0-2% larger) than a diameter of the light transmission rod 452 so that the light transmission rod 452 can fit into the support portion 488. The diameter of bore 494 in target portion 492 of opening 480 may be smaller than the diameters of support portion 488, neck 484, and light transmission rod 452 such that target portion 492 of mount 448 serves as a stop preventing movement of light transmission rod 452 from the Cavity 444 prevented. In addition, bore 494 provides an exit for the light transmitted through light transmission rod 452 and a point of aim for sight 400 .
    [0111] In at least one embodiment, the retainer 448 may be an injection molded polymer and may be manufactured, for example, with an interference fit to lock the retainer 448 in the body 476. Alternatively, bracket 448 may be formed from any other suitable material.
    [0112] In at least one embodiment, fixture 448 may be a secondary target reference. For example, mount 448 may have a colored coating, paint, tint, colored material, etc. to distinguish mount 448 from base 404 and light transmission rod 452 . Alternatively, the mount 448 may have a colored coating, paint, dye, colored material, etc. that distinguishes the mount 448 from the base 404 but matches the light transmission rod 452 . The coating, color, tint, material, etc. can be fluorescent, glossy, matte, any shade, or any effect that provides a secondary target reference for a user.
    In at least one embodiment, light transmission rod 452 is exposed to natural light or sunlight through windows 424 in cutout 416 while light transmission rod 452 extends between cavity 440 in front rail 408 and cavity 444 in back rail 412.
    [0114] In use, the artificial light source 456 may be secured in the cavity 440 of the front rail 408 by the engagement between a shoulder (or reduced diameter portion) 496 in the cavity 440 and the artificial light source 456. More specifically, in at least one embodiment, a cover 500 of a sleeve or encapsulation 504 enclosing the artificial light source 456 may be carried in the ledge 496 . Cover 500 and sleeve 504 may be the same as cover 292 and sleeve 280 previously described. Additionally, the artificial light source 456 may be secured within the cavity 440 of the front rail 408 by a threaded rod (not shown) in a threaded opening 508 in the boss 428 .
    The forward end 460 of the light transmission rod 452 can pass through the cavity 444 (through both the body 476 and the neck 484), through the cutout 416 and into the cavity 440 abutting the shoulder 496 and/or the artificial light source 456 , are used. In at least one embodiment, the front end 460 of the light transmission rod 452 abuts the tritium light source cover 500 housed in the sleeve 504 .
    When front end 460 of light transmission rod 452 abuts shoulder 496, light transmission rod 452 extends through cutout 416 and into neck 484 and body 476 of cavity 444 in rear rail 412. Bracket 448 is in body 476 of cavity 444 in rear rail 412. More specifically, bracket 448 is aligned along the longitudinal axis of cavity 444 . A first end or free end 512 is inserted into cavity 444 and pressure is applied to a second end or target end 516 to insert retainer 448 into cavity 444 . As the mount 448 is inserted into the cavity 444 , the rear end 464 of the light transmission rod 452 is inserted into the support portion 488 . Pressure is applied to the second end 516 of the bracket 448 until the bracket is in an installed position in which the shoulder 468 of the bracket 448 is positioned in the channel 472 and the rear end 464 of the light transmission rod 452 abuts the aiming point portion 492 axially. As the bracket 448 moves into the installed position, the sidewall 470 of the bracket 448 may deform slightly to provide clearance for the ledge 468 to slide into the cavity 444 . When shoulder 468 is aligned with channel 472 in cavity 444, sidewall 470 may "snap" (or return) to its undeformed, original shape.
    In daylight conditions, the light transmission rod 452 is exposed to light through the windows 424 along a length thereof in the cutout 416 of the base 404. FIG. Light incident on the light transmission rod 452 is absorbed (e.g. by the fiber optics), transmitted along a length of the light transmission rod 452 and is emitted at the rear end 464 of the light transmission rod 452 . Rear end 464 is viewable by a user through bore 494 of aperture 480 in mount 448 to thereby provide an illuminated sighting point or aiming reference for alignment with a desired target.
    In low light conditions, the light transmission rod 452 is exposed to artificial light at the front end 460 or axial face adjacent to the artificial light source 456. FIG. Light incident on the front end 460 or the axial face of the light transmission rod 452 is absorbed (e.g. by the fiber optics), transmitted along a length of the light transmission rod 452 and is emitted at the rear end 464 of the light transmission rod 452 . Rear end 464 is viewable by a user through bore 494 in opening 480 of mount 448 to thereby provide an illuminated sighting point or aiming reference for alignment with a desired target.
    In low light conditions, the light transmission rod 452 may be additionally exposed to light along its length through the windows 424 to the cutout 416. The light incident on the light transmission rod 452 is absorbed (e.g., through the fiber optics), combined with the artificial light from the artificial light source 456, transmitted along a length of the light transmission rod 452 with the artificial light, and is emitted in combination at the rear end 464 of the light transmission rod 452.
    [0120] If a user wishes to replace the light transmission rod 452 for any reason (e.g., to change the hue of the light transmission rod or to install a new light transmission rod 452), the mount 448 can be removed from the cavity 444. For example, a tool, such as a hook tool, can be inserted through opening 480 in bracket 448 to detach shoulder 468 from channel 472 . Disengaging shoulder 468 from channel 472 allows axial engagement of rear end 464 of light transmission rod 452 with retainer 448 . The bracket 448 can then be removed from the cavity 444. Alternatively, the light transmission rod 452 can be broken and removed from the cutout 416 , providing access to the first end 512 of the mount 448 to push the mount 448 out of the cavity 444 . Alternatively, if the retainer 448 is made of a polymer (such as plastic), the retainer 448 can be broken out in pieces using any tool that fits into the opening 480 .
    When the retainer 448 is completely removed from the cavity 444 in the back pillar 412, the light transmission rod 452 can be removed from the cavity 440 in the front pillar 408, the cutout 416 and the cavity 444 in the back pillar 412. A new or different light transmission rod 452 may be inserted through cavity 444 and cutout 416 and into cavity 440 adjacent artificial light source 456 and/or ledge 496 . For example, the light transmission rod 452 can move into engagement with the artificial light source 456, it can be positioned to abut the artificial light source 456, it can be positioned to abut the shelf 496, or a combination thereof.
    The bracket 448 may be reinserted into the cavity 444 by aligning the longitudinal axis of the bracket 448 with the longitudinal axis of the cavity 444 and engaging the side wall 470 of the bracket 448 with the cavity 444. In at least one embodiment, first end or free end 512 is inserted into cavity 444 and pressure is applied to second end or target end 516 to insert retainer 448 into cavity 444 . As the mount 448 is inserted into the cavity 444 , the rear end 464 of the light transmission rod 452 is inserted into the support portion 488 . Pressure is applied to the second end 516 of the bracket 448 until the bracket is in an installed position in which the shoulder 468 of the bracket 448 is positioned in the channel 472 and the rear end 464 of the light transmission rod 452 abuts the aiming point portion 492 axially. As the bracket 448 moves into the installed position, the sidewall 470 of the bracket 448 may deform slightly to provide clearance for the ledge 468 to slide into the cavity 444 . When ledge 468 is aligned with channel 472 in cavity 444, sidewall 470 may "snap" (or return) to its undeformed, original shape.
    Referring now to Figures 16-19, at least one embodiment of a sight 600 is illustrated. The visor 600 can be similar to the visor 18 and the visor 400 . In at least one embodiment, the visor 600 may include a base or housing 604 . A front rail 608 and a rear rail 612 may be separated by and define a cutout 616 . Front rail 608 and rear rail 612 may be similar to front rail 408 and rear rail 412 . In at least one embodiment, the front rail 608 and the back rail 612 may be connected by brackets 620 that enclose the corners of the cutout 616 and define windows or longitudinal openings 624 that provide access to the cutout 616 . In at least one embodiment, the brackets 620 may be integrally formed with the front rail 608 and the rear rail 612 . Although the visor 600 is illustrated and described as having straps 620 , it should be understood that the visor 600 may be similar to the visor 18 and may not have straps 620 , but instead may have an open cutout similar to cutout 212 .
    In at least one embodiment, a protrusion 628 may extend from a bottom surface 632 of the base 604 opposite the front 608 and rear 612 rails. Protrusion 628 can serve as a mount for firearm 14 . Protrusion 628 may be the same as protrusions 428 and 232. In at least one alternative embodiment, protrusion 628 may be any shaped attachment for securing front sight 600 to firearm 14, such as a rounded protrusion, a circular protrusion, a rectangular protrusion, a polygonal protrusion, a dovetail protrusion, etc.
    Referring to Figures 17-19, in at least one embodiment, a target reference assembly 636 may be carried in a cavity 640 in the front spar 608 and a cavity 644 in the rear spar 612. Target reference assembly 636 may be similar to target reference assembly 252 and target reference assembly 436 and may include a mount 648 , a light transmission rod 652 , and an artificial light source 656 . In at least one embodiment, cavity 640 can support artificial light source 656 and a front end 660 of light transmission rod 652 and cavity 644 can support bracket 648 and a rear end 664 of light transmission rod 652 .
    In at least one embodiment, light transmission rod 652 may be similar to light transmission rod 228 and light transmission rod 452. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, artificial light source 656 may be the same as or similar to artificial light source 260 and artificial light source 456 .
    [0127] In at least one embodiment, the retainer 648 may be configured to secure the light transmission rod 652 within the cavity 644. In at least one embodiment, the bracket 648 can include a channel 668 in a sidewall 670 of the bracket 648 . For example, the channel 668 can extend around a perimeter of the sidewall. In at least one embodiment, channel 668 mates or engages a pin 672 inserted into cavity 644 through an opening 676 in base 604 to secure bracket 648 in cavity 644 . In at least one embodiment, fixture 648 may be a tubular fixture having a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, it should be understood that the bracket 648 is not limited to a cylindrical shape and could have any cross-sectional shape, such as an oval shape, a rectangular shape, a square shape, a triangular shape, a hexagonal shape, etc.
    In at least one embodiment, the bracket 648 may include an aperture 680 that extends a length of the bracket 648 along a longitudinal axis and is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cavity 644 such that in an end view, the aperture 680 communicates with a body 684 and a neck or reduced diameter portion 688 of cavity 644 is concentric. The opening 680 may extend through a support portion 692 and a target portion 696 in the mount 648 , the opening 680 in the support portion 692 having a diameter that is larger than a diameter of a bore 700 in the target portion 696 . The diameter of the support portion 692 of the opening 680 can be equal to or in a range of 0 to 5% larger or smaller than a diameter of the neck 688 and equal to or slightly larger (e.g. 0-2% larger) than a diameter of the light transmission rod 652 so that the light transmission rod 652 can fit into the support portion 692. The diameter of bore 700 of opening 680 may be smaller than the diameters of support portion 692, neck 688, and light transmission rod 652 such that aiming point portion 696 of fixture 648 defining bore 700 serves as a stop preventing movement of the Light transmission rod 652 from cavity 644 is prevented. In addition, the bore 700 provides an exit for the light transmitted through the light transmission rod 652 and a point of aim for the sight 600 .
    [0129] In at least one embodiment, the bracket 648 may be a machined metal component. Alternatively, the mount 648 can be an injection molded polymer. For example, the injection molded bracket 648 can be made with an interference fit to lock the bracket 648 in the body 684 .
    [0130] In at least one embodiment, fixture 648 may be a secondary target reference. For example, the mount 648 may have a colored coating, paint, tint, colored material, etc. to differentiate the mount 648 from the base 604 and light transmission rod 652 . Alternatively, the mount 648 may have a colored coating, paint, dye, colored material, etc. that distinguishes the mount 648 from the base 604 but matches the light transmission rod 652 . The coating, color, tint, material, etc. can be fluorescent, glossy, matte, any shade, or any effect that provides a secondary target reference for a user.
    In at least one embodiment, light transmission rod 652 is exposed to natural light or sunlight through windows 624 in cutout 616 while light transmission rod 652 extends between cavity 640 in front rail 608 and cavity 644 in back rail 612.
    [0132] In use, the artificial light source 656 may be secured in the cavity 640 of the front rail 608 by the engagement between a shoulder (or reduced diameter portion) 704 in the cavity 640 and the artificial light source 656. More specifically, in at least one embodiment, a cover 708 of a sleeve or encapsulation 712 enclosing the artificial light source 656 may be carried in the ledge 704 . Cover 708 and sleeve 712 may be the same as cover 292 and sleeve 280 previously described. Additionally, the artificial light source 656 may be secured within the cavity 640 of the front rail 608 by a threaded rod (not shown) into a threaded opening 716 in the boss 628.
    The front end 660 of the light transmission rod 652 can pass through the cavity 644 (through both the body 684 and the neck 688), through the cutout 616 and into the cavity 640, which abuts the shoulder 704 and/or the artificial light source 656 , are used. In at least one embodiment, the front end 660 of the light transmission rod 652 abuts the tritium light source cover 708 housed in the sleeve 712 .
    When the front end 660 of the light transmission rod 652 abuts the shoulder 704, the light transmission rod 652 extends through the cutout 616 and into the neck 688 and body 684 of the cavity 644 in the rear rail 612. The mount 648 is then in the body 684 of the cavity 644 in the rear rail 612 engages. More specifically, bracket 648 is aligned along the longitudinal axis of cavity 644 . A first end or free end 720 is inserted into cavity 644 and pressure is applied to a second end or target end 724 to insert retainer 648 into cavity 644 . As the mount 648 is inserted into the cavity 644 , the rear end 664 of the light transmission rod 652 is inserted into the support portion 692 . Pressure is applied to the second end 724 of the mount 648 until the mount is in an installed position in which the channel 668 of the mount 648 is aligned with the opening 676 in the base 604 and the rear end 664 of the light transmission rod 652 is positioned abuts the target point section 492 axially. In at least one embodiment, the second end 724 of the bracket 648 can be flush with the base 604 . Pin 672 is inserted into opening 676 and channel 668 to lock retainer 648 in cavity 644 .
    In daylight conditions, the light transmission rod 652 is exposed to light through the windows 624 along a length thereof in the cutout 616 of the base 604. FIG. Light incident on the light transmission rod 652 is absorbed (e.g. by the fiber optics), transmitted along a length of the light transmission rod 652 and is emitted at the rear end 664 of the light transmission rod 652 . Rear end 664 is viewable by a user through bore 700 of opening 680 in mount 648 to thereby provide an illuminated sighting point or aiming reference for alignment with a desired target.
    In low light conditions, the light transmission rod 652 is exposed to artificial light at the front end 660 or axial face adjacent to the artificial light source 656 . Light incident on the front end 660 or the axial face of the light transmission rod 652 is absorbed (e.g. by the fiber optics), transmitted along a length of the light transmission rod 652 and is emitted at the rear end 664 of the light transmission rod 652 . Rear end 664 is viewable by a user through bore 700 in opening 680 of mount 648 to thereby provide an illuminated sighting point or aiming reference for alignment with a desired target.
    [0137] In low light conditions, the light transmission rod 652 may be additionally exposed to light along its length through the windows 624 to the cutout 616. The light incident on the light transmission rod 652 is absorbed (e.g., through the fiber optics), combined with the artificial light from the artificial light source 656, transmitted along a length of the light transmission rod 652 with the artificial light, and is emitted in combination at the rear end 664 of the light transmission rod 652.
    [0138] If a user wishes to replace the light transmission rod 652 for any reason (for example, to change the hue of the light transmission rod or to install a new light transmission rod 652), the mount 648 can be removed from the cavity 644. In at least one embodiment, pin 672 is removed from channel 668 and opening 676 in base 604 . For example, a tool such as a drift or drift tool is used to push pin 672 out of channel 668 and opening 676 in base 604 . Subsequently, by removing the pin 372, the retainer 648 is released. Axial movement of the bracket 648 away from the light transmission rod 652 disengages the axial engagement between the bracket 648 and the rear end 664 of the light transmission rod 652. The bracket 648 can then be released from the cavity 644.
    When the mount 648 is completely removed from the cavity 644 in the back pillar 612, the light transmission rod 652 can be removed from the cavity 640 in the front pillar 608, the cutout 616 and the cavity 644 in the back pillar 612. A new or different light transmission rod 652 may be inserted through cavity 644 and cutout 616 and into cavity 640 adjacent artificial light source 656 and/or shelf 704 . For example, the light transmission rod 452 can move into engagement with the artificial light source 656, it can be positioned to abut the artificial light source 656, it can be positioned to abut the shelf 704, or a combination thereof.
    The bracket 648 may be reinserted into the cavity 644 by aligning the longitudinal axis of the bracket 648 with the longitudinal axis of the cavity 644 and engaging the sidewall 670 of the bracket 648 with the cavity 644. In at least one embodiment, first end or free end 720 is inserted into cavity 644 and pressure is applied to a second end or target end 724 to insert retainer 648 into cavity 644 . As the mount 648 is inserted into the cavity 644 , the rear end 664 of the light transmission rod 652 is inserted into the support portion 692 . Pressure is applied to the second end 724 of the mount 648 until the mount is in an installed position in which the channel 668 of the mount 648 is aligned with the opening 676 in the base 604 and the rear end 664 of the light transmission rod 652 is positioned hits the aiming point section 492 . In at least one embodiment, the second end 724 of the bracket 648 can be flush with the base 604 . Pin 672 is inserted into opening 676 and channel 668 to lock retainer 648 in cavity 644 .
    Referring now to Figure 20 in conjunction with Figures 2-7, the sight 18,22,400,600 can be mounted on a slide 26 of a firearm 14 by a boss 58,232,428,628. In at least one embodiment, the protrusion 58, 232, 428, 628 may be a dovetail mount 800 as shown in FIG. The dovetail mount 800 may be the same as the boss or gun mount 58 and may have a trapezoidal cross-section with a sloping front surface 804 and a sloping rear surface 808 that converge while resting on the base 38, 200, 404, 604 of the sight 18 , 22, 400, 600 taper. The dovetail mount 800 may also include a bottom surface 812 connecting the front 804 and back surfaces 808 and extending parallel with the bottom surface 54,236,432,632 of the base 38,200,404,604.
    In at least one embodiment, the dovetail mount 800 may mate with a mating sight mount 816 on the slide 26 of the firearm 14. Visor mount 816 may be a recess in carriage 26 and may have a sloped front surface 820 , a sloped rear surface 824 , and a bottom surface 828 connecting front 820 and rear 824 surfaces. The front surface 820 and the rear surface 824 are inclined such that they diverge while tapering towards the bottom surface 828 . In at least one embodiment, the slope of the front face 820 matches the slope of the front face 804 of the dovetail mount 800 and the slope of the back face 824 matches the slope of the back face 808 of the dovetail mount 800 .
    In at least one embodiment, the dovetail mount 800 may include an opening 832 extending from the bottom surface 812 to the cavity 264,440,640 in the front rail 66,204,408,608. Opening 832 may be the same as openings 244, 508 and 716. The opening 832 can receive a rod 836 to secure a position of the artificial light source 260,456,656 in the cavity 264,440,640. For example, if the artificial light source 260,456,656 is a non-radioluminescent light source, the rod 836 can secure the artificial light source 260,456,656 in the cavity 264,440,640. For example, opening 832 may be a threaded opening and rod 836 may be a threaded rod. Alternatively, the opening 832 may be unthreaded and the rod 836 may be a pin that is pressed against the artificial light source 260,456,656. The rod 836 can be fixed in the opening 832 by gap-filling adhesive compounds and/or adhesives. Alternatively, opening 832 may provide access for additional adhesive application during assembly. For example, adhesives and/or gap-filling adhesive compounds can be applied through opening 832 into cavity 264,440,640 to secure artificial light source 260 in cavity 264,440,640.
    In use, with the sight 18, 22, 400, 600 removed from the firearm 14, the rod 836 is screwed or otherwise inserted into the opening 832 to secure the artificial light source 260, 456, 656 in the cavity 264, 440, 640 . A longitudinal axis of the dovetail mount 800 on the sight 18, 22, 400, 600 is aligned along a longitudinal axis of the sight mount 816 on the slide 26 of the firearm 14 such that a front surface 804 of the dovetail mount 800 is aligned with the front surface 820 of the sight mount 816, the rear surface 808 of dovetail mount 800 is aligned with front surface 824 of visor mount 816; and bottom surface 812 of dovetail mount 800 is aligned with bottom surface 828 of visor mount 816.
    In at least one embodiment, the visor 18, 22, 400, 600 is moved laterally along the longitudinal axis of the visor mount 816. The visor 18, 22, 400, 600 is moved laterally until the bottom surface 812 of the dovetail mount 800 is fully aligned with the bottom surface 828 of the visor mount 816 and engaged therewith. When bottom surface 812 is fully aligned with bottom surface 828 , an edge of bottom surface 812 engages an edge of bottom surface 828 .
    In at least one embodiment, to remove the sight 18, 22, 400, 600 from the firearm 14, the sight 18, 22, 400, 600 is moved laterally until the bottom surface 812 of the dovetail mount 800 is completely clear of the bottom surface 828 of the Visor attachment 816 is released.
    Referring now to Figure 21 in conjunction with Figures 8-19, the sight 18,22,400,600 can be attached to a slide 26 of a firearm 14 by the boss 58,232,428,628. In at least one embodiment, the boss 58, 232, 428, 628 may be a boss mount 900 as shown in FIG. The boss mount 900 may be the same as the boss or gun mount 232, 428, 628 and may include an oval shaped boss 904. FIG. Although protrusion 904 is shown and described as an oval shaped protrusion 904, protrusion 904 may be any shaped attachment for securing sight 18, 22, 400, 600 to firearm 14, such as a rounded protrusion, a circular protrusion , a rectangular protrusion, a polygonal protrusion, etc. In at least one embodiment, the protrusion 904 may have an opening 908 configured to engage a post 912 and secure the sight 18, 22, 400, 600 to the firearm 14 .
    In at least one embodiment, protrusion 904 may fit within an opening 916 in carriage 26. For example, opening 916 may be an oval shaped opening (or any shaped opening that mates with a shape of the protrusion) having sidewalls 920 that engage sidewalls 924 of protrusion 904 . The engagement of the oval shape of the sidewalls 924 of the boss 904 with the sidewalls 920 of the aperture 916 allows the sight 18, 22, 400, 600 to be properly or correctly positioned relative to the slide 26 on the firearm 14.
    In at least one embodiment, opening 908 in boss 904 may include threads 928 for engaging threads 932 on rod 912 to secure rod 912 in opening 908. Alternatively, opening 908 and rod 912 may be unthreaded and rod 912 may be press fitted into opening 908 . Alternatively, the rod 912 can be fixed in the opening 908 by gap-filling adhesive compounds and/or adhesives. In at least one embodiment, opening 908 may provide access for additional adhesive application during assembly. For example, adhesives and/or gap-filling adhesive compounds can be applied through opening 908 into cavity 264,440,640 to secure artificial light source 260 in cavity 264,440,640.
    In at least one embodiment, the wand 912 may include a base 936 that is integrally formed with the wand 912 . In at least one embodiment, a diameter of base 936 may be larger than a diameter of rod 912 . When assembled, the base 936 can be positioned between the slide 26 and a body 940 of the firearm 14 and the rod 912 can extend through the opening 916 in the slide 26 . Thus, the base 936 and the rod 912 remain secured to the gun 14.
    In use, with the sights 18, 22, 400, 600 removed from the firearm 14, the base 936 is secured between the slide 26 and the body 940 of the firearm 14 by extending the rod 912 through the opening 916 in the slide 26. In at least one embodiment, a pivot axis through opening 908 in boss 904 is aligned with a pivot axis through rod 912 . Rod 912 is inserted into opening 908 and rotated to engage threads 928 on rod 912 with threads 932 in opening 908 .
    In at least one embodiment, while threads 928 on rod 912 are engaged with threads 932 in opening 908, projection 904 is inserted into opening 916 in carriage 26. Accordingly, sidewall 924 of projection 904 engages sidewall 920 of opening 916 . In at least one embodiment, the rod 912 is rotated until the sight 18, 22, 400, 600 is fully installed on the firearm and the bottom surface 54, 236, 432, 632 seats against a top surface 944 of the slide 26.
    In at least one embodiment, to remove the sight 18, 22, 400, 600 from the firearm 14, the sight 18, 22, 400, 600 is rotated to rotate the rod 912 until the bottom surface 54, 236, 432 , 632 of the sight 18, 22, 400, 600 is completely disengaged from the upper surface 944 of the slide 26. The rod 912 is further rotated (either by rotating the visor 18, 22, 400, 600 or by other means) until the rod 912 is disengaged from the aperture 908 in the boss 904.
    The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same can also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.
    权利要求:
    Claims (13)
    [1]
    A sight (18, 22) for a firearm (14) comprising:- a housing (38, 200) adapted to be attached to a firearm (14);- An artificial light source (260) mounted within the housing (38, 200);- a light transmission rod (186, 228) disposed in a cavity of the housing (38, 200) and positioned adjacent to the artificial light source (260), wherein the light transmission rod (186, 228) is configured to have both an ambient light and a light collect and transmit from the artificial light source (260); and- a bracket removably engaged to the housing (38, 200) and fixing the light transmission rod (186, 228) in the cavity,removing the bracket providing access to replace the light transmission rod (186, 228).
    [2]
    The sight (18, 22) of claim 1, wherein the artificial light source (260) is a tritium light source or an LED.
    [3]
    3. A sight (18, 22) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an end of the artificial light source (260) is axially aligned with an end of the light transmission rod (186, 228).
    [4]
    4. A sight (18, 22) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the artificial light source (260) illuminates an axial surface of the light transmission rod (186, 228).
    [5]
    5. A sight (18, 22) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light transmission rod (186, 228) is a fiber optic rod.
    [6]
    6. A visor (18, 22) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mount is press fitted into the cavity in the housing (38, 200).
    [7]
    A sight (18, 22) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the mount has threads which threadably engage an inner surface of the cavity in the housing (38, 200).
    [8]
    The visor (18, 22) of claim 7 further comprising a polymeric patch on the threads of the mount.
    [9]
    9. A sight (18, 22) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light transmission rod (186, 228) abuts axially against the mount such that after the mount is removed from the housing (38, 200), the light transmission rod (186, 228 ) is slidably removable from the cavity.
    [10]
    A sight (18, 22) as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the mount defines an axially extending aperture and the light transmission rod (186, 228) is aligned with the axially extending aperture to provide a target reference.
    [11]
    A sight (18, 22) according to claim 10, wherein an axially outer end face of the mount has a colored coating or paint to provide a secondary aiming reference.
    [12]
    A sight (18, 22) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (38, 200) has a longitudinal opening into the cavity, the longitudinal opening exposing at least an upper half of the light transmission rod (186, 228).
    [13]
    13. A sight (18, 22) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an outer surface of the holder has a tool engagement surface.
    类似技术:
    公开号 | 公开日 | 专利标题
    DE69937257T2|2008-07-03|WEAPONS FOR DAY AND NIGHT
    DE112008004282B4|2019-03-21|visor
    DE102011013575B4|2013-02-21|Device for attaching an attachment to a firearm
    DE102007050435B4|2022-01-13|Protruding adjustment cap system for a sighting device
    WO2006017869A1|2006-02-23|Operating element for a telescopic sight
    EP2350733A1|2011-08-03|Sighting device
    WO2011067291A1|2011-06-09|Sighting device
    EP1484546A2|2004-12-08|Rod shaped battery powered lamp
    DE1578271C3|1974-01-03|Sighting device for firearms, navigation instruments and the like
    DE202010011734U1|2011-11-10|flashlight
    DE102007063407A1|2009-07-02|reflex sight
    EP2047206A1|2009-04-15|Hinge assembly for a weapon, a visor assembly, and weapon
    CH717648A2|2022-01-31|Sight for a firearm.
    DE4336956B4|2007-04-12|sight
    EP0398062B1|1994-08-31|Device with a measuring glass
    EP2615408B1|2018-09-19|Mounting device for a telescopic sight in a hunting or sport weapon
    DE3702560C1|1988-08-18|Visor lighting device
    AT521537A2|2020-02-15|FOLDED RELAY SPRING FOR AN OPTICAL VISOR
    WO2019243076A1|2019-12-26|Visor device for a firearm, in particular for a handgun
    DE102009011743A1|2010-09-16|Extension assembly for assembling sighting telescope on e.g. automatic gun used by e.g. police, has link section arranged on mounting sockets with rest sections, and retainers fixed to link section for retaining telescope
    AT519569A4|2018-08-15|Firearm with adapter for sighting device
    DE102016107686A1|2016-11-03|recessed light
    AT520077B1|2019-01-15|Handgun and sighting device for it
    DE102005010451A1|2006-09-14|Lighting device for flat, transparent object e.g. table top, has LEDs to direct light parallel to plane of object, and light reflecting and absorbing opaque covers, where device is detachably attached to sleeve of object
    DE2059814A1|1971-07-22|Gripper or pincer-like optical version
    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    US20220026176A1|2022-01-27|
    IL282151D0|2022-02-01|
    KR20220013307A|2022-02-04|
    引用文献:
    公开号 | 申请日 | 公开日 | 申请人 | 专利标题
    US5070619A|1988-01-19|1991-12-10|Santiago Julio A|Gunsight|
    US5065519A|1990-05-23|1991-11-19|Trijicon, Inc.|Iron sight with illuminated pattern|
    US20060123687A1|2004-12-14|2006-06-15|North Pass, Ltd.|Aiming sight|
    US7562486B2|2007-07-12|2009-07-21|Truglo, Inc.|Self-illuminated sighting device|
    US7627976B1|2007-12-31|2009-12-08|Wilsons Gunshop, Inc|Fiber optic sight for firearms with nighttime capabilities|
    AT509117A1|2009-12-02|2011-06-15|Mb Microtec Ag|sight|
    US8677674B2|2010-12-14|2014-03-25|Trijicon, Inc.|Gun sight|
    US10088274B2|2010-12-17|2018-10-02|Hiviz Llc|Weapon sight light emission system|
    US8925237B2|2010-12-17|2015-01-06|North Pass, Ltd.|Weapon sight light emission system|
    US10760877B2|2010-12-17|2020-09-01|HiViz, LLC|Weapon sight light emission system|
    US8656631B2|2011-01-17|2014-02-25|Trijicon, Inc.|Fiber optic shotgun sight|
    US10062464B2|2016-08-17|2018-08-28|Cammenga Company, Llc|Tritium housing|
    US10480899B1|2016-08-17|2019-11-19|Cammenga Company, Llc|Tritium housing|
    US20190323541A1|2018-04-21|2019-10-24|Maxim Defense Industries, LLC|Universal interface system, fastener apparatus and accessory rail system|
    法律状态:
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US16/938,276|US20220026176A1|2020-07-24|2020-07-24|Tritium Fiber Iron Sight|
    [返回顶部]