摘要 |
A multi-function day/night observation, ranging, and sighting device includes a single objective lens group and a single eyepiece lens and provides an image of a scene. The single objective lens group leads to a visible-light first optical path and to an invisible-light second optical path. It will be understood that the terms visible-light and invisible-light are used merely to distinguish the two optical paths, and not as a limitation. In other words, some visible light will pass to the image intensifier tube, and this tube is capable of providing an image in response to light in the visible portion of the spectrum. On the other hand, some light in the infrared portion of the spectrum may pass along the visible-light optical path. As mentioned, the invisible-light second optical path includes an image intensifier tube providing a visible image. The first and second optical paths converge with visible images provided by each pathway being overlaid at a reticule plane. A single light path leads from the reticule plane to the eyepiece lens. A laser provides a pulse of laser light projected into the scene via the single objective lens, and the image intensifier tube is used as a detector for a portion of the laser light pulse reflected from an object in the scene in order to provide a laser range finding function. The device includes a light-emitting display visible through the eyepiece lens and providing ranging information superimposed over the image of the scene as seen by a user of the device. Methods of the device's operation are also disclosed.
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