US20030058531A1 - Upgradeable telescope system - Google Patents
Upgradeable telescope system Download PDFInfo
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- US20030058531A1 US20030058531A1 US10/180,952 US18095202A US2003058531A1 US 20030058531 A1 US20030058531 A1 US 20030058531A1 US 18095202 A US18095202 A US 18095202A US 2003058531 A1 US2003058531 A1 US 2003058531A1
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- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
- G02B23/00—Telescopes, e.g. binoculars; Periscopes; Instruments for viewing the inside of hollow bodies; Viewfinders; Optical aiming or sighting devices
- G02B23/16—Housings; Caps; Mountings; Supports, e.g. with counterweight
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- Astronomy & Astrophysics (AREA)
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Abstract
A telescope system facilitates easy upgrading from friction lock mounting to manual worm drive, and from manual worm drive to motor drive. Vibration isolation provides a steady field of view for enhanced observation and photography. A telescope mount facilitates enhanced below the horizon and zenith viewing. A tripod has detents which hold the legs thereof in a deployed position during handling of the tripod. A cam lock reliably maintains a desired length of telescoping tripod legs. An X-Y adjustable finder scope facilitates easy alignment thereof with the telescope
Description
- This application takes priority from provisional patent Application Serial No. 60/105,659, filed Oct. 26, 1998 entitled “Upgradeable Telescope System,” the entire contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.
- This patent application is related to co-pending patent application entitled TELESCOPE SYSTEM HAVING AN INTELLIGENT MOTOR CONTROLLER and to co-pending patent application entitled FULLY AUTOMATED TELESCOPE SYSTEM WITH DISTRIBUTED INTELLIGENCE, both filed on instant date herewith and commonly owned by the Assignee of this patent application, the entire contents of both of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
- The present invention relates generally to telescopes of the type commonly used to observe and photograph celestial objects. The present invention relates more particularly to a telescope system which can be easily upgraded from friction lock mounting to manual worm drive, and from manual worm drive to motor drive. Further, the present invention comprises a mount which facilitates enhanced below the horizon and zenith viewing, a motor vibration isolation system, an adjustable worm drive, a tripod having detents which hold the legs in a deployed position thereof during handling of the tripod, a cam lock for maintaining a desired length of the tripod legs and an X-Y adjustable finder scope.
- Telescopes for observing and/or photographing celestial objects such as planets, moons, stars, galaxies, asteroids, comets, nebulae, and the like are well known. Such telescopes range in size from small, readily portable ones to large fixed ones which are permanently located in observatories. The smaller telescopes are commonly used by students, hobbyists and amateur astronomers. The larger telescopes are generally only used by researchers and professional astronomers.
- Common types of telescopes include refractor telescopes, reflector telescopes, Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes and Maksutov-Cassegrain telescopes. Refractor telescopes have a light collecting objective lens which focuses the collected light upon an eyepiece. The eyepiece, in cooperation with the objective lens, provides the desired magnification.
- A reflector telescope utilizes a primary mirror to collect light and a secondary mirror to reflect the collected light through an opening in the telescope tube to an eyepiece. The eyepiece is mounted upon the tube, typically near the front of the tube, and is positioned orthogonal to the tube. The eyepiece cooperates with the primary mirror to provide the desired magnification.
- Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes are similar to reflector telescopes, except that the secondary mirror of a Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope reflects the collected light through an opening in the primary mirror instead of through an opening in the tube. In this manner, the eyepiece can be located directly behind the primary mirror, which is convenient for some types of viewing and photography. Additionally, light enters a Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope through a thin, two-side aspheric lens, known as a correction plate. Further, the secondary mirror is convex, so as to increase the effective focal length of the primary mirror.
- Maksutov-Cassegrain telescopes are similar to Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes, except that in Maksutov-Cassegrain telescopes light enters the telescope through a meniscus lens and an oversize primary mirror is used to provide an unvignetted field of view.
- In viewing celestial objects with any type of telescope, it is necessary to continually move the telescope, so as to maintain the telescope in desired alignment with the celestial object. This is necessary to compensate for the rotation of the earth with respect to the cosmos. Thus, such continual realignment of the telescope maintains the desired celestial object within the field of view of the telescope as the earth rotates about its axis.
- Smaller, portable telescopes of the reflector, refractor, Schmidt-Cassegrain, Maksutov-Cassegrain or any other desired type are typically mounted upon a tripod to facilitate portability and use of the telescope upon uneven outdoor surfaces, such as upon the ground, upon paved surfaces such as roads or parking lots, or upon any other desired surface.
- Two different types of mounts, altitude azimuth and equatorial, are commonly used to removably attach a telescope to a tripod. Altitude azimuth (altazimuth) mounts provide a comparatively rigid and steady mount for the telescope, but are more difficult to maintain in alignment with a desired celestial object when the telescope is being aimed manually. Altitude azimuth mounts have only two perpendicular axes of rotation, which make altitude azimuth telescopes inherently more rigid and stable than equatorial telescopes. The altitude axis of rotation allows the telescope to pivot with respect to the mount about a horizontal axis and the azimuth axis of rotation allows the telescope to pivot about a vertical axis. In order to maintain alignment of a telescope having an altitude azimuth mount with respect to a desired celestial object, it is generally necessary to move the telescope about both the altitude and azimuth axes, since the position of celestial objects generally varies in both altitude and azimuth as the earth rotates.
- Equatorial mounts facilitate easier maintenance of alignment of the telescope with a desired celestial object, since the telescope must only be moved about a single axis so as to maintain such alignment. In an equatorial mount, two orthogonal axis are configured such that one of the two axes can easily be aligned so as to be parallel to the axis of rotation of the earth. Once such alignment with the earth's axis of rotation is accomplished, then it is merely necessary to move the telescope about the other axis, so as to maintain alignment of the telescope with a desired celestial object. Thus, with an equatorial mount only a single axis of the telescope needs to be moved in order to maintain such alignment.
- However, in an equatorial mount it is necessary to provide two additional orthogonal axis of alignment (similar to those of an altitude azimuth mount) in order to facilitate alignment of one axis so as to be parallel to the earth's axis of rotation. Thus, an equatorial mount actually comprises an altitude azimuth mount plus two additional axes and thus has a total of four different alignment axes. Because the equatorial mount comprises four different alignment axis, and because each axis inherently decreases the stability of the mount, it is difficult to manufacture an equatorial mount which is as stable as a comparable altitude azimuth mount (which has only two axes of alignment).
- Portable, tripod mounted telescopes have evolved to the point where they are comparable in quality to the larger, fixed telescopes of observatories. With the advent of precise alignment control and electronic imaging, it is now possible to use such portable telescopes to take pictures of celestial objects which could only be photographed by observatories just a few years ago.
- Although such contemporary portable telescopes have proven generally useful for their intended purposes, they do possess substantial deficiencies. For example, contemporary portable telescopes are not easily upgradeable, they are typically susceptible to vibration caused by drive motors, they cannot always be oriented as desired, they utilize tripods which are unreliable or difficult to use, and they have a finder scope which is difficult to align with the telescope.
- Frequently, a telescope is purchased in a basic, or less expensive configuration, and it is later desired to upgrade the telescope so as to provide desirable features and enhanced functionality. For example, it is common for an amateur astronomer to first purchase a small refractor telescope which has a mount which utilizes friction locks to maintain the desired orientation of the telescope. The telescope is aimed at a desired celestial body by loosening the friction locks and manually manipulating the telescope with respect to the tripod, so as to effect the desired alignment. The friction mounts are then tightened to prevent the telescope from moving.
- However, as those skilled in the art will appreciate, such friction lock mounts are clumsy and extremely difficult to use. Fine adjustments in alignment, which are frequently necessary so as to maintain a desired celestial object within the field of view of the telescope, are extremely difficult to make when utilizing friction lock mounts. Usually, manual manipulation of the telescope results in uneven, jerky movements of the telescope. It is almost impossible to take long exposure photographs with a telescope having friction mounts. Further, the very act of tightening a friction lock (which is intended to maintain desired alignment) frequently causes undesirable misalignment of the telescope. Thus great care must be taken in the use of such friction lock mounts so as to maintain desired alignment of the telescope.
- Because of the difficulty of maintaining desired alignment of the telescope with respect to a celestial object being observed or photographed, it is frequently desirable to upgrade the telescope to utilize manual worm drives, rather than friction lock mounts. To change the altitude or azimuth alignment of a telescope which utilizes manual worm drives, the user merely turns a knob associated with the desired axis to be adjusted, so as to effect comparatively smooth rotation of the telescope about that axis. For example, to change the altitude alignment of the telescope, the user merely turns the altitude manual worm drive knob. The worm drive provides gear reduction, such that turning the knob results only in very minute changes in altitude adjustment, thus facilitating very precise and easy alignment of the telescope is obtained. The worm drive also provides a much greater degree of stability as compared to a friction drive. In a worm drive, the adjustment knob is attached to a worm, which rotates a worm gear as the knob is turned. Such a worm/worm gear arrangement is inherently stable and tends to resist movement of the telescope unless the adjustment knob is turned. With a manual worm drive, it is even possible for a very patient user to maintain sufficient alignment of the telescope to facilitate long exposure celestial photography.
- However, such manual adjustment of the telescope requires constant attention, particularly during celestial photography. Thus, it is desirable to further upgrade the telescope by motorizing the worm drive, so as to eliminate the need for such constant manual adjustment. When utilizing a motorized worm drive, a computer may be utilized to provide control signals to the motors, so as to continuously effect the desired alignment. Further, the computer may further be utilized to find the desired celestial object, as well as to aid in an initial alignment of the telescope.
- Thus, it is clear that a series of consecutive upgrades to a telescope is frequently desirable. However, effecting such upgrades with contemporary telescopes is typically a difficult, costly and time consuming endeavor. Quite often, the telescope or the mount must be modified, so as to accommodate such upgrades. As such, it is desirable to provide a telescope system which readily accommodates upgrading of the telescope mount from friction lock mounts to manual worm drives and from manual worm drives to motorized worm drives in a manner which is simple, convenient, and comparatively inexpensive.
- Another problem commonly associated with contemporary telescopes is that those contemporary telescopes utilizing motor drives are undesirably subject to vibration caused by operation of the motors. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the electric motors associated with such motor drives can operate at comparatively high speeds, e.g., occasionally as high as 15,000 rpm. At such high speeds, any slight imbalance in the motor tends to cause the motor to vibrate, and thus transmit such vibration through the drive motor assembly and the mount, to the telescope. It will be appreciated that even minute vibrations of the telescope are highly undesirable when high magnifications are used. When utilizing such high magnifications, even the slightest movement of the telescope will cause the viewed celestial object to move appreciably within the field of view. Indeed, excessive vibration will make the telescope unusable for celestial photography at higher magnifications. Thus, it is desirable to isolate the motor from the telescope, so as to mitigate vibration of the telescope caused by the motor.
- Another problem commonly associated with contemporary telescopes is that during below the horizon and during zenith viewing, it is frequently difficult to orient contemporary telescopes at the desired angle. Below the horizon viewing is viewing in which the telescope is oriented such that it points in a direction below horizontal, i.e., points somewhat downwardly. Below the horizon viewing is also frequently used during terrestrial observations, particularly when the telescope is situated at a higher elevation than the object being observed, such as when the telescope is located within a tall building or upon a hill. Zenith viewing occurs when the telescope is oriented such that it is substantially vertical, i.e., aimed directly overhead. As discussed above, contemporary telescope mounts inhibit such viewing. Further, it is necessary to continually vary the alignment of the telescope, so as to maintain a desired celestial object within the field of view. Occasionally, particularly during celestial photography, it is desirable to maintain the celestial object within the field of view as long as possible. Thus, it is occasionally desirable to maintain the desired celestial object within the field of view by orienting the telescope for below the horizon and/or zenith viewing.
- As those skilled in the art will appreciate, contemporary mounts tend to undesirably limit the angle at which below the horizon and zenith viewing is possible. Such contemporary mounts interfere with desired movement of the telescope during below the horizon and zenith viewing such that the telescope undesirably abuts the mount when moved to its extreme limit of travel during such viewing. Thus, it is desirable to provide a telescope mount which facilitates below the horizon and zenith viewing at enhanced angles.
- As discussed above, portable telescopes are frequently mounted upon tripods. Although such tripods provide an inexpensive and convenient means for mounting the telescope, contemporary tripods do possess deficiencies. For example, when a contemporary tripod is picked up, as when moving the telescope from one location to a nearby location, or when disassembling the telescope for transport, the legs of the tripod tend to fold in from their extended or deployed positions undesirably. Such folding, when merely moving the telescope from one location to a nearby location, necessitates that the user redeploy the tripod legs at the new location. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, such redeploying of the telescope legs is difficult, particularly when a single person is attempting to move the telescope. Thus, it would be desirable to provide a tripod which maintains the legs thereof in a deployed position until the user desires that the legs be folded or stowed.
- Yet another problem commonly associated with contemporary telescopes is that of unreliable locking mechanisms for maintaining the tripod legs at the desired length thereof. Many tripods utilize telescoping legs, so as to facilitate easy storage and transportation thereof Such telescoping tripod legs may be adjusted to the desired length and locked in place. However, the locks of contemporary telescopes are frequently unreliable. When such a lock fails, then one leg of the tripod collapses, resulting in loss of alignment of the telescope with the object being viewed and possibly resulting in substantial damage to the telescope. Thus, it is desirable to provide a positively acting, reliable lock for telescoping tripod legs.
- Yet another disadvantage associated with contemporary telescopes is the manner in which finder scopes thereof are mounted to the telescope and adjusted with respect thereto. Contemporary finder scopes are typically attached to telescopes utilizing two brackets which are spaced apart along the length of the finder scope and which attach rigidly to the telescope. The contemporary finder scope is held in position with respect to each of the two brackets by three set screws which threadedly engage the bracket and which bear upon the finder scope. The finder scope is aligned with the telescope by loosening at least one of the three set screws of a bracket and then tightening one or two of the other set screws of the same bracket.
- However, this process is not intuitive in that it tends to move the finder scope in two orthogonal directions (as related to a X-Y coordinate system) simultaneously. That is, such contemporary finder scopes do not facilitate movement thereof in only a selected one of two orthogonal directions. Thus, a contemporary finder scope tends to move in both the X and Y direction when any adjustment is made thereto. Such operation of the finder scope can be extremely confusing, particularly for novices. Thus, alignment of a contemporary finder scope can require an undesirably excessive amount of time.
- As those skilled in the art will appreciate, it is necessary to properly align the finder scope with the telescope, so as to facilitate aiming of the telescope at a desired object. The finder scope must be in alignment with the telescope in order to facilitate alignment of the telescope with the desired celestial object. Thus, it is desirable to provide a mount for a finder scope which facilitates adjustment of the finder scope in only a single X-Y direction at a time, so as to simplify alignment thereof with respect to a telescope.
- The present invention specifically addresses and alleviates the above-mentioned deficiencies associated with the prior art. More particularly, the present invention comprises a telescope system of the type commonly used to observe and photograph celestial objects. The telescope system comprises a telescope, a tripod supporting the telescope, and a mount attaching the telescope to the tripod in a manner which facilitates rotation of the telescope about first and second generally orthogonal axis.
- According to the present invention, the telescope system facilitates easy, convenient, and comparatively inexpensive upgradeability from friction lock mounts to manual worm drives and from manual worm drives to motor worm drives. The telescope system of the present invention is constructed so as to mitigate vibration from the motor, so as to facilitate enhanced viewing and photography. The mount is configured so as to facilitate below the horizon and zenith viewing and photography at enhanced angles. The tripod is constructed so as to maintain the legs thereof in either the deployed or stowed positions, as desired. The legs of the tripod comprise locks which are positive acting and reliable. The finder scope of the present invention is constructed so as to facilitate alignment thereof with the telescope by moving the finder scope in a single X-Y direction as an alignment adjustment is being performed, thereby substantially simplifying the alignment process.
- The mount comprises a base pivotally attached to the tripod to define the first or azimuth axis, two arms extending from the base to which the telescope is pivotally attached to define the second or altitude axis, a first cutout formed in the mount for providing clearance to the telescope when the telescope is oriented for below the horizon viewing, so as to enhance an angle at which the telescope is capable of being oriented during below the horizon viewing, and a second cutout formed in the mount for providing clearance to the telescope when the telescope is oriented for zenith viewing, so as to enhance an angle at which the telescope is capable of being oriented during zenith viewing. The first and second cutouts are preferably formed in either the base or are formed in a fork defined by the two arms. The first and second cutouts may likewise be formed in any portion of the mount which undesirably limits movement of the telescope. The arms preferably extend from the base at an angle of between approximately 30° and approximately 60°,preferably approximately 45°, with respect to vertical.
- Further, and according to the present invention, an UPGRADEABLE telescope system comprises a first pivot attaching the telescope to the mount for facilitating rotation of the telescope about the azimuth axis and a second pivot attaching the mount to the tripod for facilitating rotation of the telescope about the altitude axis. Thus, the first pivot preferably defines a generally horizontal axis of rotation, i.e., an altitude axis, and the second pivot defines a generally vertical axis of rotation, i.e., an azimuth axis. A first friction lock is configured to mitigate rotation of the telescope about the first axis. The first friction lock is configured to removably attach a first worm drive thereto. Similarly, a second friction lock is configured to mitigate rotation of the telescope about the second axis. The second friction lock is likewise configured to removably attach a second worm drive thereto. Thus, the first and second friction locks are configured so as to facilitate easy, convenient, and inexpensive upgrade thereof from friction lock mounting to manual or motorized worm drives.
- The first and second friction locks comprise a friction lock housing, a knob which is rotatable with respect to the friction lock housing so as to effect engagement of the friction lock, and a plurality of threaded openings formed in the friction lock housing for receiving threaded fasteners so as to removably attach a worm drive to the friction lock housing.
- Each of the first and second friction locks preferably further comprise a spacer located intermediate the knob and the friction lock housing. The spacer provides room for the worm drive when the spacer is removed. Thus, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a portion of a worm drive may optionally be located intermediate the knob and the friction lock housing. The worm drive is removably attachable to each of the first and second friction lock housings so as to effect either manual or motorized rotation of the telescope about the altitude and azimuth axis.
- Each worm drive comprises a housing which is configured to removably attach a motor so as to facilitate motorized operation thereof. According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, each worm drive housing comprises at least one threaded opening for receiving a threaded fastener, so as to removably attach a motor to the worm drive housing. Thus, according to the present invention, a motor is removably attachable to each worm drive housing so as to effect rotation of the telescope about the altitude and azimuth axes thereof.
- According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, each worm drive comprises a worm gear coupled to effect rotation of the telescope when the worm gear rotates, a worm coupled to effect rotation of the worm gear when the worm rotates, and a knob coupled to effect rotation of the worm when the knob rotates. The knob is manually rotatable, so as to facilitate manual adjustment of the altitude and azimuth axis. According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the worm gear of each worm drive is configured such that it rotates upon a shaft without effecting rotation of the shaft when a knob of the friction lock to which the worm drive is attached is loose, and such that the worm gear effects rotation of the shaft when the knob of the friction lock to which the worm drive is attached is tight. Rotation of the shaft effects rotation of the telescope. Further, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, two metal washers are disposed upon the shaft. One metal washer is located upon each side of the worm gear and is configured so as to rotate with the shaft. Thus, the two metal washers and the worm gear define a clutch which is controlled by the knob, such that the clutch engages when the knob is tightened and disengages when the knob is loosened.
- A polystyrene friction washer is preferably located intermediate each metal washer and the worm gear and is configured so as to rotate independently with respect to the shaft. The polystyrene friction washers tend to provide a generally constant coefficient of friction between the metal washers and the worm gear when the drive knob is tight. The polystyrene friction washers tend to provide a generally constant coefficient of friction regardless of contamination thereof with oily or greasy substances such as lubricants.
- Optionally, a hand-held controller controls the motors, so as to facilitate aiming of the telescope at a desired celestial object. The hand held controller comprises either a key pad for facilitating input of commands to move the telescope in altitude and azimuth, or alternatively comprises a joy stick for facilitating input of commands to move the telescope in altitude and azimuth. Optionally, the hand-held controller comprises a microprocessor configured to aim the telescope at a desired celestial object when either a designation, e.g., name or number, of the celestial object or coordinates of the celestial object are entered into the hand-held controller.
- The telescope system of the present invention preferably comprises a tripod having a head and three legs pivotally attached to the head and extending downwardly from the head. The three legs have a stowed position and a deployed position. Preferably, a detent is formed upon each leg and is configured so as to releasably hold each leg in the deployed position thereof. As is common in contemporary tripods, the legs are preferably configured so as to telescope in order to vary the length thereof, as desired.
- The detent may be formed upon either the head or upon each leg. The detent preferably comprises a protrusion formed upon either the head or upon each leg. Thus, each detent comprises either a protrusion formed upon the head and a corresponding generally flat surface formed upon each leg, such that the flat surface abuts the protrusion and tends to compress the protrusion as the leg is moved from the deployed position to the stowed position thereof, or the detent alternatively comprises a protrusion formed upon each leg and a corresponding generally flat surface formed upon the head for each protrusion, such that the flat surface abuts each protrusion and tends to compress the protrusion as the leg is moved from the deployed position to the stowed position thereof. Preferably, each detent is also configured to releasably hold the leg in the stowed position thereof. Preferably, the tripod further comprises a first stop formed upon the head for defining the deployed position of each leg and a second stop formed upon the head for defining the stowed position of each leg. The first and second stops limit the range of travel of the legs so as to define the deployed and stowed positions thereof.
- Each of the legs of the tripod preferably comprise a lock for maintaining the leg at a desired length. The lock preferably comprises a lever having a cam formed thereon. The lever is pivotally attached to the leg section having the larger diameter of the two telescoping sections thereof, e.g., the upper section. A pusher is formed of a substantially rigid material and the cam is configured such that the cam pushes the pusher toward the second leg section when the lever is moved. A friction pad is located upon the pusher and comprises a substantially resilient material. The friction pad is configured to contact the second leg section when the pusher is pushed there toward, so as to frictionally engage the second leg section and thereby mitigate movement of the second leg section with respect to the first leg section.
- The telescope system of the present invention preferably further comprises a finder scope which is attached to the telescope for aiding in alignment of the telescope with respect to a desired celestial object which is to be observed or photographed with the telescope. The finder scope comprises a tube having proximal and distal ends, an eyepiece located at the proximal end of the tube, an objective lens located at the distal end of the tube, and first and second brackets spaced apart along the tube for adjustably attaching the tube to the telescope. The first bracket comprises a first pair of parallel knife edges defining a first opening and the second bracket similarly comprises a second pair of parallel knife edges defining the second opening. Each pair of knife edges define pivot about which the finder scope can rotate with respect to the telescope. The tube is located within the first and second openings, such that it extends there through, and the first and second pairs of knife edges are oriented generally orthogonally to one another, so as to facilitate adjustment of the finder scope in two generally orthogonal directions. the first mount is preferably located near the proximal end of the tube and the second mount is preferably located near the distal end of the tube.
- According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a first pair of opposed set screws threadedly engage the first mount and are located upon opposite sides of the tube, so as to effect movement of the tube within the first opening. Similarly, a second pair of opposed set screws threadedly engage the second mount and are located upon opposite sides of the tube, so as to effect movement of the tube within the second opening. The first and second mounts are preferably configured such that movement of the tube within the first opening causes rotation of the tube about a first axis and movement of the tube within the second opening causes rotation of the tube about a second axis, wherein the first and second axis are generally orthogonal to one another. According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first axis is located proximate the second opening and is generally parallel to the knife edges of the second opening and the second axis is located proximate the first opening and is generally parallel to the knife edges of the first opening.
- Thus, according to the present invention, a method for aligning a finder scope with respect to a telescope, so as to facilitate subsequent use of the finder scope in alignment of the telescope with respect to a celestial object to be observed or photographed with the telescope comprises the steps of moving the finder scope along a first pair of knife edges defining a first opening through which the finder scope extends, so as to align the finder scope in a first axis with respect to the telescope, and moving the finder scope along a second pair of knife edges defining a second opening through which the finder scope extends, so as to align the finder scope and a second axis with respect to the telescope. The steps of moving the finder scope along the first and second pairs of knife edges preferably comprise sliding the finder scope along the first and second pairs of knife edges. More particularly, the steps of moving the finder scope along the first and second pairs of knife edges preferably comprise loosening a first set screw to facilitate movement of the finder scope with respect to the first pair of knife edges, tightening a second set screw such that the second set screw causes the finder scope to move with respect to the first pair of knife edges, loosening a third set screw to facilitate movement of the finder scope with respect to the second pair of knife edges, and tightening a fourth set screw such that the fourth set screw causes the finder scope to move with respect to the second pair of knife edges. After the second and fourth set screws have been tightened sufficiently, so as to position the finder scope in desired alignment with the telescope, then the first and third set screws are tightened, as necessary, so as to lock the finder scope into alignment with the telescope.
- Further, according to the present invention, a first shaft is rigidly attached to the telescope and a second shaft is rigidly attached to the base of the mount. The first shaft is pivotally attached to one of the two arms of the mount so as to define a first axis of two generally orthogonal axis and the second shaft is rigidly attached to the base and pivotally attached to the tripod so as to define a second axis of the two generally orthogonal axis. At least one worm drive effects desired movement of the telescope with respect to the tripod. Each worm drive comprises a worm gear formed upon one of the first and second shafts, a worm having first and second ends engaging each worm gear. A pair of resilient supports facilitate mounting of each worm. One resilient support is located proximate the first end of each worm and the other resilient support is located proximate the second end of each worm. The resilient supports provide shock/vibration isolation of the worm with respect to the telescope. The resilient supports preferably comprise rubber, preferably Shore A 50 silicone rubber. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the various other resilient polymer materials and the like are likewise suitable.
- Each of the resilient supports preferably comprise a body having a flat side and an opening form through the body. The worm extends through the opening. One resilient support facilitates mounting of the worm at each end of the worm. Further, a bushing is located within the opening of the body of each support, for facilitating rotation of the worm with respect to the support. The bushing is preferably comprised of a rigid polymer materials, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
- According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, each worm drive further comprises two set screws, one set screw for adjusting the position of each of the two supports with respect to the worm gear, so as to facilitate desired engagement of the worm with the worm gear. The worm drive preferably further comprises a pusher block for each support configured such that one of the set screws pushes against the pusher block and the pusher block pushes against the support. The pusher block is preferably comprised of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene resin (ABS). Adjusting the desired set screw causes the pusher block to move in a manner which effects corresponding movement of the associated support, thereby facilitating adjustment of the position of the worm with respect to the worm gear. Thus, both ends of the worm can be adjusted so as to facilitate proper alignment of the worm with respect to the worm gear, as well as the desired degree of engagement therewith.
- Further, according to the present invention, each worm gear comprises oil impregnated, copper-steel powdered metal and each worm comprises bronze. Each worm gear preferably comprises copper-steel powdered metal in compliance with specification MTIS FC-0208-50. The first and second shafts preferably comprise steel. Further, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least one bronze bushing (preferably two bronze bushings) is positioned about each of the first and second shafts to facilitate rotation thereof. Further, according to the present invention, the motors for the worm drives preferably comprise electric motor assemblies. Each electric motor assembly preferably comprises a housing, a platform located within the housing, a plurality of first resilient shock/vibration mounts attaching the platform to the housing, an electric motor located upon the platform, and a plurality of second resilient shock/vibration mounts attaching the motor to the platform.
- According to the present invention, a plurality of fasteners attach the platform to the housing. The plurality of first resilient shock/vibration mounts comprise two o-rings positioned around each fastener, so as to capture a portion of the platform there between. The housing preferably comprises first and second housing sections and the fasteners attach the first and second housing sections together.
- The electric motor preferably comprises a boss form about a shaft of the electric motor at each end thereof. The platform preferably comprises two clamps, one clamp configured to hold each boss. The plurality of second resilient shock/vibration mounts preferably comprised two o-rings, wherein one o-ring is located around each bossed and is captured by each clamp. Alternatively, one or both of mounts comprise a resilient bracket or plate configured to mount the motor to the platform.
- Preferably, a reduction gear assembly is mounted upon the platform for facilitating reduction in the rotational speed provided by the motor to the worm drive, while also increasing the torque thereof.
- Thus, the present invention provides an easily upgradeable telescope system having improved vibration isolation with respect to the motor drives thereof. An improved tripod is provided which desirably maintains the legs in the stowed or deployed positions thereof and which reliably locks the legs in the desired extended position thereof. An improved finder scope facilitates easy alignment thereof with the telescope.
- These, and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be more fully understood when considered with respect to the following detailed description, appended claims and accompanying drawings, wherein:
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an upgradeable telescope system according to the present invention, having friction locks for the altitude and azimuth axes and showing the tripod thereof with the legs of the tripod in a deployed position;
- FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the altitude friction lock of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross sectional view of the altitude friction lock of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross sectional view of the azimuth friction lock of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the upgradeable telescope system of FIG. 1, having the altitude and azimuth friction locks thereof upgraded to manual worm drives;
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged, exploded perspective view of the altitude manual worm drive of FIG. 5;
- FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross sectional side view of the altitude manual worm drive of FIG. 5;
- FIG. 8 is a cross sectional side view of the azimuth manual worm drive of FIG. 5;
- FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of the worm drive of FIG. 6, showing one mounting aperture thereof;
- FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross sectional side view of a tripod leg lock of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 11 is a first perspective view of the telescope mount of FIG. 5, wherein both the altitude and azimuth manual worm drives thereof have been upgraded to motorized worm drives;
- FIG. 12 is a second perspective view of the telescope mount of FIG. 5, wherein both the altitude and azimuth manual worm drives thereof have been upgraded to motorized worm drives;
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a motor drive assembly having the upper housing section thereof removed;
- FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the drive motor assembly of FIG. 13, having the upper platform section removed therefrom;
- FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of the motor drive assembly of FIG. 13;
- FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the platform, motor, and reduction gear assembly of FIG. 13;
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a finder scope having two sets of parallel knife edges which facilitate X-Y adjustment of the finder scope according to the present invention;
- FIG. 18 is an enlarged perspective view of the brackets of the finder scope of FIG. 17, better showing the two sets of parallel knife edges thereof;
- FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an alternate motor drive assembly attached to a telescope mount;
- FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing the alternate motor drive assembly exploded away from the telescope mount of FIG. 19;
- FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of the motor drive assembly of FIG. 19 showing the motor platform therein;
- FIG. 22 is an enlarged perspective view of the motor platform of FIG. 21; and
- FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of the motor platform of FIG. 22.
- The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, and is not intended to represent the only form in which the present invention may be constructed or utilized. The detailed description sets forth the construction and functions of the invention, as well as the sequence of steps for operating the invention in connection with the illustrated embodiment. It is to be understood, however, that the same or equivalent functions may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the invention. The upgradeable telescope system of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 18, which depict a presently preferred embodiment thereof. Referring now to FIG. 1, the
upgradeable telescope system 10 of the present invention generally comprises atelescope 12 attached to atripod 28 viamount 23 in a manner which facilitates movement of thetelescope 12 about both a horizontal or altitude axis and a vertical or azimuth axis. As discussed herein and shown in the drawings, thetelescope 12 comprises a refractor telescope. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention is likewise applicable to other types of telescopes such as reflector telescopes, Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes, Maksutov-Cassegrain telescopes, etc. - The
telescope 12 comprises anobjective lens 14 which collects light and focuses the collected light uponeyepiece 16, via prism ormirror 17.Focus knob 18 moves the eyepiece so as to facilitate focusing of thetelescope 12. Interchangeable eyepieces are preferably utilized. -
Finder scope 18 is used to aid in the alignment of thetelescope 12 such that a desired celestial object can be observed or photographed therewith. Before using the finder scope to align the telescope, the finder scope must be aligned with the telescope. The present invention provides animproved finder scope 18, which is substantially easier to align than contemporary finder scopes, as discussed in detail below. - The
mount 23 comprises a base 172 from which a fork 74 (both 172 and 74 are better shown in FIG. 11) extends to support thetelescope 12. Themount 23 comprises mountingbrackets telescope 12, preferably via fasteners such as bolts or screws 77. Optionally, motor andcontroller interface 24 facilitates electrical interconnection of a manual, held controller and axis drive motors. Afriction lock 20, comprising aknob 50, is used to facilitate locking of thetelescope 12 in a desired position, as discussed in detail below.Knob 80 formed uponmount bracket 78 is merely cosmetic and may be somewhat similar in appearance toknob 50 offriction lock 20. Similarly, pivoting of themount 23 with respect to thetripod head 26 is controlled byfriction lock 31, as described in detail below. -
First mount bracket 76 andsecond mount bracket 78 facilitate attachment of thetelescope 12 to themount 23 viapivot shafts 82 and 86 (FIG. 3).Mount 23 is configured so as to facilitate below the horizon viewing and zenith viewing at enhanced angles, as discussed in detail below. - Motor and
controller connections 24 provide a convenient interface for a hand heldcontroller 11 and telescope drivemotor assemblies 240 and 244 (FIG. 11). Either ajoystick 13 or akeypad 15 ofcontroller 11 may be used to control the telescope drive motor. The motors 250 (FIG. 14) ofdrive motor assemblies telescope 12, so as to enhance viewability and photographic applications of thetelescope 12 by maintaining a comparatively steady field of view during use, as discussed in detail below. Themount 23 is pivotally attached totripod head 26. - The
tripod 28 further comprises threelegs 30. Eachleg 30 is pivotally attached to thetripod 26 head in a manner which maintains each leg in either the deployed or stowed position thereof during handling of thetripod 28, as discussed in detail below. - The
tripod legs 30 preferably comprise uppertripod leg sections 32 and lowertripod leg sections 34 which telescope into the uppertripod leg sections 32. Cam locks 38 provide enhanced locking of thesecond leg sections 34 with respect to thefirst leg sections 32, as discussed in detail below.Eyepiece holder 36, attached to one of thelegs 30, provides a convenient place to store a plurality of interchangeable eyepieces, such that the eyepieces are readily available, as desired. - The upgradeable telescope system of the present invention can easily be upgraded from friction locks,20, 31 to manual worm drives 121, 123 and from manual worm drives 121, 123 to motorized worm drives, as discussed in detail below. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, friction locks 20, 31 merely hold the
telescope 12 in position, relative to thetripod 28. Thus, in order to move thetelescope 12 into position for observing or photographing a desired celestial object, it is generally necessary to loosen both thealtitude friction lock 20 and theazimuth friction lock 31, so as to allow the telescope to rotate freely about both the altitude and azimuth axes. When thetelescope 12 has been positioned roughly in alignment with the desired celestial object, then thealtitude friction mount 23 and theazimuth friction lock 31 are tightened sufficiently to maintain the desired general alignment of thetelescope 12, while also facilitating fine adjustment thereof by gently tapping or pushing the telescope in the desired direction. Once the desired celestial object is within the field of view of thetelescope 12, preferably near the center of the field of view, then both thealtitude friction lock 20 and theazimuth friction lock 31 are tightened, so as to inhibit further movement of thetelescope 12 with respect to thetripod 28. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that such manual positioning of the telescope is extremely difficult and does not usually result in desired alignment of thetelescope 12 in a simple or timely fashion. - The
legs 30 of thetripod 28 attach to thetripod head 26 via bolts which pass throughopenings 33 in the proximal ends of thetripod legs 30 and throughcorresponding openings 114 and thetripod head 26, as shown in FIG. 4. - Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, an
altitude friction lock 20 is shown. Theazimuth friction lock 31 is analogous in structure and function. Thealtitude friction lock 20 comprises ashaft 62 which is rotatably attached to the fork 232 (best shown in FIGS. 11 and 12) of themount 23. Theshaft 62 rotates withinbushings fork 232 as shown in FIG. 3. Theshaft 62 is preferably comprised of steel and thebushings shaft 62 is attached to mountbracket 76 of thetelescope 12, preferably via either threaded attachment to thenut 88 or via press fit. In a similar fashion,shaft 82 is attached to mountbracket 78, preferably vianut 84 or via press fit.Shaft 82 rotates within busing 83 offork 74. Thefork 74 is rotatably captured uponshaft 62 between themount bracket 76 of thetelescope 12 andnut 60 which is threaded to theshaft 62.Belleville washer 61 is positioned uponshaft 62intermediate nut 60 andbushing 64.Spacer 57 attaches to fork 74 and is preferably configured so as to be seated uponlip 71 offork 74. Asimilar flange 61 is preferably formed uponspacer 57 and is received withinknob 50, so as to visually obscure internal components of thefriction lock 20. Thespacer 57 is removed from thefriction lock 20 when an upgrade is performed to a worm drive, as discussed below.Tab washer 56 engagescomplimentary cutouts 59 formed and thespacer 57 so as to provide a bearing surface forwasher 54 which abutstab washer 56 whennut 52 is tightened uponshaft 62.Knob 50 is configured to receive and engagenut 52, such that rotation ofknob 50 results in like rotation ofshaft 62. - A scale, preferably printed or silk screened upon
thin sheet metal 68, is optionally attached to thefork 232 so as to provide a convenient reference for positioning thetelescope 12. Threaded apertures 200 (better shown in FIG. 6) are not utilized in thefriction lock 20, but rather are used when thefriction lock 20 is upgraded to a worm drive, as discussed in detail below. - In operation, a user utilizes
friction lock 20 to hold thetelescope 12 in a desired position by tightening theknob 50 so as to causenut 52 to urgewave spring washer 54 against the bearing surface oftab washer 56. Sincespacer 57 is rigidly attached to fork 74, rotation ofshaft 62 is inhibited by tighteningknob 50. That is, tighteningnut 52 against bearingsurface 56, viawasher 54, tends to compress thewasher 54 between thenut 52 and thetab nut 56 so as to lock thefriction lock 20. - Referring now to FIG. 4, the azimuth friction lock similarly comprises a
shaft 91 which is rotatably attached to thetripod head 26 and rotates withinbronze bushings shaft 91 is rigidly attached to mount 23, preferably via either threaded or press fit. Theazimuth friction lock 31 further comprises aknob 90,nut 93,wave spring washer 92,tab washer 94,spacer 96,nut 98, andBelleville washer 100, which are analogous to the same components of thealtitude friction lock 20 and function in a like manner. - Referring now to FIGS.5-9, the
altitude 20 andazimuth 31 friction locks of the telescope system can easily be upgraded to manual worm drives 121, 123, if desired. As discussed above, although friction locks 20, 31 provide an inexpensive means for facilitating altitude and azimuth adjustment of thetelescope 12, such friction locks 20, 31 are comparatively difficult to use. It is frequently desirable to upgrade a telescope having such friction locks 20, 31 to one which utilizes manual worm drives 121, 123, so as to make alignment of thetelescope 12 in altitude and azimuth much easier and more precise. - With particular reference to FIG. 6, the altitude manual worm drive preferably comprises a
phosphor bronze worm 132 which engages aworm gear 158 such that manual rotation of theworm 132 effects adjustment of thetelescope 12 in altitude.Worm gear 58 rotates independently with respect toshaft 62 upon which it is located. More particularly, the azimuth manual worm drive comprises aworm drive knob 120 which engages a nut 22 such that when theknob 120 is rotated, thenut 122 rotates likewise. Thenut 122 is threaded to theworm 132 such thatrotating nut 122 results in like rotation ofworm 132.Worm 132 is rotatably attached toworm drive housing 58 viabushings Belleville worm washer 124 andflat washer 126 are positioned uponworm 132intermediate nut 122 andworm drive housing 58.Belleville washer 124 allowsnut 122 to be tightened without substantially inhibiting rotation ofshaft 132 with respect toworm drive housing 58.Flat washer 126 provides a bearing surface forBelleville washer 124. Similarly,nut 152 is threaded ontoshaft 132 andBelleville washer 150 andflat washer 148 are disposedintermediate nut 152 andbearing 146.Bushings Bushings worm drive housing 58 viaresilient mounts complimentary recesses 138 of theworm drive housing 58. According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, apusher 144, 145, comprised of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene resin (ABS) is positioned intermediate eachresilient support set screw set screw pusher 144, 145, thereby similarly moving theresilient support worm 132 with respect to theworm gear 158. - Adjustment of the
worm 132 with respect to theworm gear 158 is performed so as to provide conformity between theworm 132 and theworm gear 158, such that engagement of theworm 132 with theworm gear 158 is substantially optimized throughout the complete range of rotation of theworm gear 158 with respect to theworm 132. That is, such adjustment is performed so as to attempt to make engagement of theworm 132 with theworm gear 158 approximately the same regardless of the relative rotational positions of theworm 132 and theworm gear 158. In this manner, the friction or drag associated with engagement of theworm 132 with respect to theworm gear 158 is approximately the same throughout the complete range of adjustment. - As those skilled in the art will appreciate, various conditions, such as an out of round condition of the
worm gear 152, machining defects and theworm 132 and/or theworm gear 158, misalignment of theworm gear 158 upon its shaft, etc., will tend to cause undesirable variations in the drag or friction associated with turning of theworm gear 158 by theworm 132. Adjusting theworm 132 closer to theworm gear 158 tends to increase such drag or friction, while adjusting theworm 132 away from theworm gear 158 tends to reduce such drag or friction. Adjusting the position of theworm 132 too close to theworm gear 158 may result in binding of theworm 132 andworm gear 158, particularly if such a manufacturing imperfection is present. Thus, adjustment is performed so as to minimize the drag or friction at any points throughout the range of motion of theworm gear 158 with respect to theworm 132, while also maintaining a desired degree of engagement of theworm 132 with respect to theworm gear 158. The resilient supports 130, 140 facilitate such adjustment. Also, wear of theworm 132 or theworm gear 158 will tend to affect conformity. - The resilient supports130, 140 also provide for vibration damping of the
telescope 12 with respect to thetripod 30. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, inadvertently bumping or tapping the telescope during use thereof frequently results in undesirable oscillation or vibration of the telescope which causes the field of view to move substantially, thereby inhibiting viewing or photography. Also, it is not unusual for a user to accidentally bump an altitude or azimuth adjustment knob during use thereof, so as to cause such undesirable oscillation or vibration of thetelescope 12. Thus, if someone accidentally taps the telescope, or bumps it, as when attempting to look through the eyepiece and inadvertently tapping the eyepiece with the user's forehead, then the telescope may begin to oscillate or vibrate undesirably and may continue to do so for a substantial length of time, occasionally in excess of 30 seconds. It has been found that theresilient supports telescope 12 such that it quickly ceases such undesirable oscillation or vibration, typically within a few seconds. - The resilient supports130, 140 also tend to inhibit the transmission of undesirable vibration from the drive motors, when installed, to the
telescope 12, so as to further enhance viewing and photography. The resilient supports 130, 140 also tend to reduce audible noise, such as that due to engagement of theworm 132 with theworm gear 158 during motor operation. - The
spacer 58 of thefriction lock 20 is removed, so as to accommodateworm drive housing 58. Theshaft 62 remains rotatably attached to thefork 74 vianut 60.Tab washers worm gear 58 with the tabs thereof received byslot 63 ofshaft 62 such thattab washers shaft 62.Plastic friction washers tab washer worm gear 158. Theplastic friction washers tab washers worm gear 158 in the event that tab washers 56, 162 orworm gear 158 becomes contaminated with a lubricant such as oil or grease. - To upgrade from friction drive to manual worm drive, it is merely necessary to remove the
knob 50 andnut 52 from theshaft 62 of thefriction drive 20 by rotating theknob 50 counter clock wise until thenut 52 completely unthreads from theshaft 62. Thewasher 54 and thespacer 57, along with bearingwasher 56, are then removed from theshaft 62. Theworm gear assembly 121 is then positioned over theshaft 62 such that it engages thelip 71 of thefork 74.Tab washer 162,plastic friction washer 160,worm gear 158,plastic friction washer 156,tab washer 56,washer 54, andnut 52 are then placed overshaft 62, in that order, and thenut 52 is then tightened. Threaded fasteners, such as screws, pass through holes 201 (preferable 3 spaced apart holes) in theworm drive housing 58 and threadedly engage threadedholes 200 of thefork 74.Knob 50 is then attached tonut 52. Once assembled,knob 50 is turned so as to causetab washers shaft 62, to frictionally engageworm gear 58, which rotates independently ofshaft 62, viaplastic friction washers knob 50 tends to cause rotation ofworm gear 158 to cause like rotation ofshaft 62. - Once so installed, the manual worm gear effects altitude adjustment by merely turning
worm gear knob 120. Thus, turningworm gear knob 120 effects rotation ofworm 132, which causesworm gear 158 to rotate. Whenknob 50 is tightened sufficiently, it causesworm gear 158 to rotate substantially along withshaft 62, such that rotation ofworm 132 effects rotation ofshaft 62, which causes the telescope to move in altitude. The azimuth worm drive similarly comprisesworm 186 andworm gear 198.Worm gear 198 is similarly sandwiched betweentab washers plastic friction washers 180 and 194 being locatedintermediate tab washers worm gear 198. - Referring now to FIGS.11-16, the upgradeable telescope system of the present invention may easily be upgraded from manual worm drive to motorized worm drive. Although manual worm drive does provide easier and more precise positioning of the telescope than friction locks, such manual worm drives do require continuous manual adjustment in order to keep a desired celestial object within the field of view. Indeed, when such celestial objects are being photographed, particularly at high magnifications, it is necessary to very accurately provide such continuous adjustment of the telescope so as to maintain the desired celestial object within the same position in the field of view of the telescope. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, such precise control of the telescope is necessary so as to obtain a quality photograph having desired brightness and quality, e.g., lacking blurring due to misalignment of the telescope during imaging.
- Motorized worm gears may be operated either manually or automatically, e.g., under computer control. During manual operation, a hand held controller11 (FIG. 1), preferably having either a
key pad 15 or ajoy stick 13, is utilized so effect such manual control of the motorized worm drives. By utilizing computer control of the motorized worm drives, then the computer may be programmed to maintain alignment of thetelescope 12 with the desired celestial object, so as to facilitate viewing and/or photography thereof. - Upgrading manual
altitude worm drive 121, for example, so as to provide motorized control thereof, merely involves removing the manual worm drive knob 120 (FIGS. 5 and 6) therefrom by housing setscrew 121 and then attaching thedrive motor assembly 240. Thedrive motor assembly 240 is attached to theworm gear housing 58 by receiving the tapereddistal end 133 of theworm gear 132 within theoutput gear 252 ofmotor drive assembly 240, such that the tapereddistal end 133 of theworm gear 132 engages the output gear 252 (best shown in FIGS. 13 and 14). A set screw may be used to attach theoutput gear 252 to theworm 132, if desired.Flat 131 of theworm 132 engages complimentary flat of theoutput gear 252 to provide positive attachment. Themotor drive assembly 240 is then secured to theworm drive housing 58 by threading attachment shaft 243 (best shown in FIGS. 13 and 14) into threaded aperture 117 (best shown in FIG. 5) formed inflange 213. Thus, rotation of themotor 250 effects rotation ofworm drive 132 viaoutput gear 252 of theworm drive assembly 240. The azimuthmotor drive assembly 244 is attached in a like manner. - With particular reference to FIGS.13-16, the
motor drive assemblies motor 250 and areduction gear assembly 260 disposed upon a platform defined byupper platform section 264 and lower platform section 262 (best shown in FIGS. 15 and 16). Themotor 250 is mounted to theplatform 251 in a manner which provides shock/vibration isolation of themotor 250 with respect to theplatform 251. More particularly, a resilient o-ring 298 (FIG. 16) is positioned aboutfront motor boss 299 such that the lower 262 and upper 264 platform sections clamp about and capture thefront boss 299 with the o-ring 298 between thefront boss 299 and the upper 264 and lower 262 platform sections.Resilient mount 296 isolates the rear end of themotor 250 from the platform. Alternatively, an o-ring can be used to isolate the rear end of the motor in a manner similar to that of the front end.Resilient mount 296 attaches to the rear ofmotor 250 and to theplatform 251 so as to hold themotor 250 in position with respect to theplatform 251, while minimizing the transmission of vibration from themotor 250 to theplatform 251. Theplatform 251 is likewise shock/vibration isolated from the upper 259 and lower 258 housing sections of themotor drive assemblies motor 250 with respect to thetelescope 12. As shown in FIG. 15, a pair of resilient o-rings 270, 272 are located upon each of threescrews 266 which attach the platform 251 (defined by upper 264 and lower 262 platform sections) to the motor drive housing defined by upper 259 and lower 258 housing sections. Thus, theplatform 251 is sandwiched between resilient o-rings 270, 272 with eachmotor drive assembly telescope 12 with respect to themotor 250 is provided by the resilient worm gear supports 130 and 140, as discussed above. - Vibration isolation of the
motor 250 with the o-ring 298 and theresilient mount 296, as well as vibration isolation of theplatform 251 with the resilient o-rings 270, 272, substantially reduces audible noise associated with operation of themotor 250. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, telescope drive motors, particularly those of larger telescopes, may produce substantial and undesirable noise during operation thereof. - Such motor noise can be extremely annoying. It has been found that such vibration isolation of the
motor 250 and theplatform 251 substantially reduces such audible noise, thereby enhancing the overall utility and desirability of the telescope system. Thus, such isolation of themotor 250 and theplatform 251 mitigates both undesirable vibration of thetelescope 12 and undesirable audible noise. - According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the
reduction gear assembly 260 comprisesprimary gear 253, which is attached directly to the output shaft ofmotor 250,intermediate gears primary gear 253, andoutput gear 252, which facilitates interconnection to theworm 132. Intermediate gears 291, 292, 293 and 295 rotate uponshafts reduction gear assembly 260 is configured so as to provide amotor 250 tooutput gear 252 ratio of approximately 205.3 to 1. Further, theworm 132 toworm gear 158 ratio is preferably approximately 60 to 1. The motor preferably operates from approximately 0 to approximately 15,000 rpm. - Encoder
wheel 254 is preferably formed uponprimary gear 253, such thatencoder wheel 254 rotates withprimary gear 253.Encoder 254 cooperates with a pair ofphoto diodes 256 and anLED 255 so as to operate in quadrature, thereby providing precise position control of thetelescope 12. The encoder wheel preferably has 36 teeth. - Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12, the
mount 23 is preferably configured so as to accommodate enhanced below the horizon and zenith viewing therewith. Themount 23 comprisescutouts telescope 12 with themount 23 as the telescope is moved to the two extremes of the altitude travel.Cutout 234 thus allows thetelescope 12 be to oriented at a greater angle below the horizontal than would be possible without thecutout 234. Similarly,cutout 236 allows thetelescope 12 to be oriented at a greater angle with respect to horizontal during zenith viewing. According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, thecutouts arms 230, 232) . However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that thecutouts arms base 172, and/or any other portion of themount 23 which would otherwise interfere with and undesirably limit movement of thetelescope 12 with respect to themount 23. - Referring now to FIG. 4, the
tripod 28 is preferably configured such that thelegs 30 thereof remain in either the deployed or stowed positions while the tripod is being handled, e.g., picked up and carried. More particularly, adetent 108 is formed upon thetripod head 26 such that a correspondingflat surface 27 at the upper end of eachtripod leg 30 must engage and substantially compress thedetent 108 in order to move between the stowed and deployed positions. In this manner, eachleg 30 tends to stay in either the stowed or deployed position until sufficient force is applied to theleg 30 so as to partially compress thedetent 108 and thereby urge the leg into the opposite position thereof. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that thedetent 108 may alternatively be formed upon the upper end of eachleg 30 and the corresponding generally flat surface formed upon thetripod head 26. Thetripod head 26 is preferably formed of a durable polymer material. - Outboard stop112 defines the extended position of each
leg 30 by limiting the travel outboard thereof. Similarly,inboard stop 110 defines the stowed position of each leg by limiting the inboard travel thereof. - Referring now to FIG. 10, each
tripod leg 30 preferably comprises acam lock 38 for positively and reliably locking eachlower leg section 34 into a desired position with respect to eachupper leg section 32. Eachcam lock 38 comprises alever 220 pivotally attached to theupper leg section 32 via pivot pin 22 which extends through thelever 220, as well as through thehousing 225 of thecam lock 38. Acam 227 is formed upon thelever 220 such that thecam 227 contacts apusher 224 and urges thepusher 224 toward thelower leg section 34 when thelever 220 is moved, preferably toward theupper leg section 32. Aresilient pad 226 is positioned upon the in board surface of thepusher 224 such that when thepusher 224 is urged toward thelower leg section 34, thefriction pad 226 contacts thelower leg section 34 and holds thelower leg section 34 in position relative to theupper leg section 32. Thecam 227 formed upon thelever 220 is configured as an over-centered device, such that after thelever 220 is moved to either the actuated or unactuated position thereof, thelever 220 it tends to stay in that position until sufficient force is applied so as to move thelever 220 to the other position thereof. - Thus, the
lever 220 is pulled away from theleg 30 to unlock theleg 30 and allow thelower leg section 34 slide into and out of theupper leg section 32. After adjusting theleg 30 to the desired length, thelevel 220 is pushed toward theleg 30 to lock thelower leg section 34 in position with respect to theupper leg section 32. - Referring now to FIGS. 17 and 18, the upgradeable telescope system of the present invention comprises an
X-Y finder scope 18 wherein two sets of diagonally opposed set screws facilitate alignment of thefinder scope 18 with thetelescope 12 in one X-Y direction at a time, so as to substantially simplify the alignment procedure. - The
finder scope 18 comprises atube 301 attached to thetelescope 12 viabrackets bracket tube 301 extends through openings defined byknife edges finder scope 18 can slide along one direction within the opening defined byknife edges 305 and the rear end offinder scope 18 can slide along another direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction, within the opening defined by knife edges 307. - A first pair of diametrically
opposed set screws front bracket 304 so as to move the forward end of thefinder scope 18 in the first direction and a similar pair of diametricallyopposed set screws set screws rear bracket 302 so as to similarly effect movement of the rear end of thefinder scope 18. Thus, thefinder scope 18 can be aligned in two generally orthogonal directions, one direction at a time. To perform alignment of thefinder scope 18, it is merely necessary to loosen one set screw of a selected pair of set screws, and then to tighten the opposed set screw of the selected pair. This process is generally performed upon each pair of set screws. Once thefinder scope 18 is aligned, then all of theset screws finder scope 18 with respect to thetelescope 12. - Alternatively, the
finder scope 18 may be aligned by simply loosening all four setscrews finder scope 18, as desired. Thus, after theset screws finder scope 18 is slid within the openings defined by the parallel knife edges 305 and 307 so as to effect desired alignment of thefinder scope 18 with respect to thetelescope 12. After aligning thefinder scope 18 with respect to thetelescope 12, then theset screws finder scope 18 with respect to thetelescope 12, and thus maintain desired alignment thereof. - Referring now to FIGS. 19 through 23, an alternative configuration of the
motor drive assembly 400 and theworm drive housing 58 to which themotor drive assembly 400 attaches is shown. According to this alternative configuration, themotor drive assembly 400 attaches to theworm drive housing 58 via a threadedcollar 402 which threadedly attaches to a complimentary threaded boss 406 formed upon theworm drive housing 58. - With particular reference to FIG. 21, the threaded
collar 402 attaches to the motor drive assembly 400 (defined by upper 407 and lower 409 motor drive housings) via threadedcollar retainer 403 which threadedly attaches to upper 404A and lower 404B threaded couplings formed upon the upper 407 and lower 409 motor drive housings, respectively. - The
output gear 252 of the reduction gear assembly 253 (FIG. 23) is disposed within the threadedcollar 402 and theworm 131 is disposed within the threaded boss 406, such that the motor 413 (FIGS. 21-23) drives theworm 131 through its attachment i.e., the threadedcollar 20 and the threaded boss 406, to thetelescope mount 23. - Thus, according to this alternative configuration of the
motor drive assembly 400 and theworm drive housing 58, themotor drive assembly 400 is attached to theworm drive housing 58 simply by removing the knob (not shown) from theworm 133 and attaching theoutput gear 252 to theworm 133 in place of the knob. Setscrew 404 may optionally be used to effect such attachment. Themotor drive assembly 400 is then attached to theworm drive housing 58 by threading the threadedcollar 402 to the threaded boss 406, while simultaneously allowingoutput gear 252 to engagereduction gear assembly 253. Key 405 formed upon threadedcollar 402 is received within a complimentary recess (not shown) formed in threaded boss 406 and assures desired alignment of themotor drive assembly 400 with respect to theworm drive housing 58. It has been found that this alternative method of attachment provides enhanced rigidity. - Referring now to FIGS. 21 through 23, the
motor 413 is mounted upon aplatform 412 via shock/vibration isolators as discussed above and theplatform 412 is mounted to the upper 407 and lower 409 motor drive assembly housings via shock/vibration isolation resilient 0-rings 408 which are disposed upon either side thereof and are disposed about threadedfasteners 410 as described in detail above. Theplatform 412 comprises upper 416 and lower 414 platform sections. - With particular reference to FIG. 23, the
motor 413 and thereduction gear assembly 253 defined bygears shaft 430 and gears 434 and 436 disposed uponshaft 432 are disposed upon theplatform 412. Anencoder 424 is formed integrally withmotor output gear 422, as discussed above. Themotor 413 and thereduction gear assembly 253 are captured intermediate the upper 416 and lower 414 platform sections. Themotor 413 is resiliently mounted to the upper 416 and lower 414 platform sections viaresilient motor mount 420 and o-ring 418 which are captured by the upper 416 and lower 414 platform sections, as described in detail above. - It is understood that the exemplary upgradeable telescope system described herein and shown in the drawings represents only a presently preferred embodiment of the invention. Indeed, various modifications and additions may be made to such embodiment without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various different mechanical configurations of the worm drive assembly and the motor drive assembly are likewise suitable for facilitating easy and convenient upgrading. Also, various different configurations of the friction lock are contemplated. Thus, these and other modifications and additions may be obvious to those skilled in the art and may be implemented to adapt the present invention for use in a variety of different applications.
Claims (20)
1. A telescope system of the type commonly used to observe/photograph celestial objects, the telescope system comprising:
a telescope;
a tripod supporting the telescope;
a first shaft rigidly attached to the telescope;
a mount attaching the telescope to the tripod in a manner which facilitates rotation of the telescope about two generally orthogonal axes with respect to the tripod, the mount comprising:
a base;
two arms extending from the base, the first shaft being pivotally attached to one of the two arms to define a first axis of the two generally orthogonal axes;
a second shaft rigidly attached to the base and pivotally attached to the tripod to define a second axis of the two generally orthogonal axes;
at least one worm drive for effecting desired movement of the telescope with respect to the tripod, each worm drive comprising:
a worm gear located upon each of the first and second shafts, the worm gear being comprised of oil impregnated copper-steel powdered metal; and
a worm engaging the worm gear, the worm being comprised of bronze.
2. The telescope system according to claim 1 , wherein the worm gear is comprised of copper-steel powdered metal in compliance with specification MPIS FC-0208-50.
3. The telescope system according to claim 1 , wherein the first and second shafts comprise steel and further comprising at least one bronze bushing within which each of the first and second shafts rotate.
4. A worm drive for a telescope of the type commonly used to observe/photograph celestial objects, the worm drive system comprising:
a worm gear formed upon each of the first and second shafts, the worm gear being comprised of oil impregnated copper-steel powdered metal; and
a worm engaging the worm gear, the worm being comprised of bronze.
5. The worm drive according to claim 4 , wherein the worm gear is comprises of copper-steel powdered metal in compliance with specification MPIS FC-0208-50.
6. The worm drive according to claim 4 , wherein the first and second shafts comprise steel and further comprising at least one bronze bushing within which each of the first and second shafts rotate.
7. A telescope system of the type commonly used to observe/photograph celestial objects, the telescope system comprising:
a telescope;
a tripod supporting the telescope;
a first shaft rigidly attached to the telescope;
a mount attaching the telescope to the tripod in a manner which facilitates rotation of the telescope about two generally orthogonal axes with respect to the tripod, the mount comprising:
a base;
two arms extending from the base, the first shaft being pivotally attached to one of the two arms to define a first axis of the two generally orthogonal axes;
a second shaft rigidly attached to the base and pivotally attached to the tripod to define a second axis of the two generally orthogonal axes;
a first electric motor assembly for effecting rotation of the first shaft so as to move the telescope in altitude and a second electric motor assembly for effecting rotation of the second shaft so as to move the telescope in azimuth, each of the first and second electric motor assemblies comprising:
a housing;
a platform located within the housing;
a plurality of first resilient shock/vibration mounts attaching the platform to the housing;
an electric motor located upon the platform:
a plurality of second resilient shock/vibration mounts attaching the motor to the platform.
8. The telescope system according to claim 7 , further comprising:
a plurality of fasteners for attaching the platform to the housing; and
wherein the plurality of first resilient shock/vibration mounts comprise two o-rings positioned around each fastener so as to capture a portion of the platform therebetween.
9. The telescope system according to claim 8 , wherein:
the housing comprises first and second housing sections; and
the fasteners attach the first and second housing sections together.
10. The telescope system according to claim 7 , wherein:
the electric motor comprises at least one boss formed about a shaft of the motor;
the platform comprises a clamp configured to hold each boss; and
at least one of the second resilient shock/vibration mounts comprises an one o-ring being located around each boss and captured by each clamp.
11. The telescope system according to claim 7 , further comprising a reduction gear assembly mounted upon the platform for facilitating communication of rotary motion from the electric motor to the telescope.
12. The telescope system according to claim 7 , further comprising a worm drive coupled to each of the first and second motors to be driven thereby and to effect movement of the telescope, each worm drive comprising:
a worm gear formed upon each of the first and second shafts;
a worm having first and second ends engaging each worm gear; and
a pair of resilient mounts for each worm, one resilient mount being located proximate the first end of the worm and the other resilient mount being located proximate the second end of the worm, the resilient mounts providing shock/vibration isolation of the worm with respect to the telescope.
13. An electric motor assembly for effecting movement of a telescope of the type commonly used to observe/photograph celestial objects, the electric motor assembly comprising:
a housing;
a platform located within the housing;
a plurality of first resilient shock/vibration mounts attaching the platform to the housing;
an electric motor located upon the platform:
a plurality of second resilient shock/vibration mounts attaching the motor to the platform.
14. The electric motor assembly according to claim 13 , further comprising:
a plurality of fasteners for attaching the platform to the housing; and
wherein the plurality of first resilient shock/vibration mounts comprise two o-rings positioned around each fastener so as to capture a portion of the platform therebetween.
15. The electric motor assembly according to claim 13 , wherein:
the housing comprises first and second housing sections; and
the fasteners attach the first and second housing sections together.
16. The electric motor assembly according to claim 13 , wherein:
the electric motor comprises at least one boss formed about a shaft thereof;
the platform comprises a clamp configured to hold each boss; and
at least one of the second resilient shock/vibration mounts comprise an o-ring being located around each boss and captured by each clamp.
17. The electric motor assembly according to claim 13 , further comprising a reduction gear assembly mounted upon the platform for facilitating communication of rotary motion from the electric motor to the telescope.
18. The electric motor assembly according to claim 13 , further comprising a worm drive coupled to each of the first and second motors to be driven thereby and to effect movement of the telescope, each worm drive comprising:
a worm gear formed upon each of the first and second shafts;
a worm having first and second ends engaging each worm gear; and
a pair of resilient mounts for each worm, one resilient mount being located proximate the first end of the worm and the other resilient mount being located proximate the second end of the worm, the resilient mounts providing shock/vibration isolation of the worm with respect to the telescope.
19. A telescope system of the type used to observe/photograph celestial objects, the telescope system comprising:
a telescope;
a tripod supporting the telescope;
a mount attaching the telescope to the tripod in a manner which facilitates rotation of the telescope about first and second generally orthogonal axes;
a first worm drive coupled to rotate the telescope with respect to the mount, the first worm drive comprising a first threaded boss;
a second worm drive coupled to rotate the mount relative to the tripod, the second worm drive comprising a second threaded boss;
a first motor assembly coupled to drive the first worm drive, the first motor assembly removably attached to the first worm drive via a first threaded collar configured to attach to the first threaded boss, the first motor assembly driving the first worm drive through a rotating member disposed at least partially within the first collar and the first boss; and
a second motor assembly coupled to drive the second worm drive, the second motor assembly removably attached to the second worm drive via a second threaded collar configured to attach to the second threaded boss, the second motor assembly driving the second worm drive through a rotating member disposed at least partially within the second collar and the second boss.
20. A motor assembly for moving a telescope with respect to a tripod, the motor assembly comprising a threaded collar configured to attach to a complimentary threaded boss of a worm drive of the telescope, such that the motor assembly drives the worm drive via a rotating member disposed at least partially within the collar and the boss.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/180,952 US20030058531A1 (en) | 1998-10-26 | 2002-06-25 | Upgradeable telescope system |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10565998P | 1998-10-26 | 1998-10-26 | |
US09/427,385 US6445498B1 (en) | 1998-10-26 | 1999-10-25 | Upgradeable telescope system |
US10/180,952 US20030058531A1 (en) | 1998-10-26 | 2002-06-25 | Upgradeable telescope system |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/427,385 Division US6445498B1 (en) | 1998-10-26 | 1999-10-25 | Upgradeable telescope system |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20030058531A1 true US20030058531A1 (en) | 2003-03-27 |
Family
ID=22307073
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/427,385 Expired - Fee Related US6445498B1 (en) | 1998-10-26 | 1999-10-25 | Upgradeable telescope system |
US10/180,952 Abandoned US20030058531A1 (en) | 1998-10-26 | 2002-06-25 | Upgradeable telescope system |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/427,385 Expired - Fee Related US6445498B1 (en) | 1998-10-26 | 1999-10-25 | Upgradeable telescope system |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US6445498B1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU1599200A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2000025168A1 (en) |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AU1599200A (en) | 2000-05-15 |
US6445498B1 (en) | 2002-09-03 |
WO2000025168B1 (en) | 2000-06-08 |
WO2000025168A1 (en) | 2000-05-04 |
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