The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Sep. 13, 1994
Filed:
Jun. 25, 1993
Clifford Connors, Tempe, AZ (US);
Litton Systems, Inc., Woodland Hills, CA (US);
Abstract
A night vision device with an infrared light usable for covert signaling and reading as well as for illumination of exceedingly dark areas where sufficient ambient light does not exist for the night vision device to provide a view of the area, includes a singular dual-action control switch which allows an operator of the night vision device to operate all of the functions of the device with a singular control. These functions include momentary illumination of the infrared light for signaling and for 'quick look' purposes, such as for updating a user's knowledge of map coordinates, for example. The control circuit also allows the infrared light to be maintained on for area illumination, for example, until the user purposely turns it off. However, the momentary illumination feature for the infrared light improves utility of the night vision device for signaling, and improves user safety when 'quick look' map reading and area illumination functions are performed because the user is less likely to forgetfully leave the infrared light on, and to thereby reveal the user's position to other personnel equipped with night vision devices. Human factors considerations for operation of the night vision device with minimal training and in stressful situations is improved.