ARCHERY BOW RISERS AND BOW ACCESSORIES HAVING LEVELING DEVICES

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/097,251, filed on Jan. 15, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. This application claims the benefit of, and priority to, U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/643,469, filed on May 7, 2024, U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/653,371, filed on May 30, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/758,350, filed on Feb. 14, 2025, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

This disclosure generally relates to techniques for tuning archery bows such as compound bows. Bowhunting has become an increasingly popular form of recreational hunting. In the early days of bowhunting, hunters used traditional archery bows such as a longbow or a recurve bow. However, the introduction of the compound bow revolutionized the sport of archery and bowhunting, as the compound bow design has proven to be easy to use and can provide higher arrow velocity and precision arrow flight, as compared to traditional bows. In general, archery bows require frequent adjustment, repair, installment, and tuning of bow strings and peep sights, and other accessories such as arrow rests and sighting devices. When tuning an archery bow or installing accessories on an archery bow, it is important to maintain the archery bow in a level orientation. In particular, to ensure precise alignment and proper installation of accessories such as arrows rests, peep sights and sighting devices on a compound bow, for example, it is imperative to fixedly position the compound bow in a level vertical orientation prior to and during such installation.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the disclosure generally include archery bow risers and bow accessories having integrated level devices for use in, e.g., tuning and installing accessories on archery bows such as compound bows.

For example, an exemplary embodiment includes a bow sight device which comprises a mounting bracket configured for attachment to a bow riser, a sight extension bar configured to slidably interface with the mounting bracket, and a first level device disposed on the sight extension bar and oriented in a first direction.

Another exemplary embodiment includes a bow sight device which comprises an elongated mounting bar configured to slidably engage slots of a bow riser to mount the elongated mounting bar to the bow riser, and a first level device disposed on the elongated mounting bar and oriented in a first direction.

Another exemplary embodiment includes a bow sight device which comprises a mounting bracket configured for attachment to a bow riser, and a sight housing adjustably connected to the mounting bracket by a sight housing adjustment mechanism. The mounting bracket comprises a first level device and a second level device. The sight housing comprises a third level device. The first level device is disposed on a backside surface of the mounting bracket in a first direction which is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the mounting bracket. The second level device is disposed on a sidewall surface of the mounting bracket in a second direction which is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the mounting bracket. The sight housing adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust an orientation of the sight housing so that the third level device is oriented in alignment with the first direction of the first level device.

These and other embodiments of the disclosure will be described in the following detailed description of embodiments, which is to be read in conjunction with the accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of compound bow that can be tuned and accessorized using leveling devices and methods according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C are perspective views of a bow sight device comprising one or more integrated level devices, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate a level device which can be implemented comprising a bow sight device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an apparatus comprising a bow riser and bow sight device mounted to the bow riser, wherein the bow sight device comprises one or more integrated level devices, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4B schematically illustrates a method for adjusting a bow sight device when mounted to a bow riser, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a bow riser having an integrated level device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a bow riser having an integrated level device, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 6A schematically illustrates a bow sight device comprising one or more integrated level devices, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 6B schematically illustrates a bow sight device comprising one or more integrated level devices, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a bow sight device comprising one or more integrated level devices, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspective views of an apparatus comprising a bow riser and a bow sight device mounted to the bow riser, wherein the bow sight device comprises one or more integrated level devices, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 9 schematically illustrates a bow sight device comprising one or more integrated level devices, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of an apparatus comprising a bow riser and bow sight device comprising integrated level devices and mounted to the bow riser, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of the bow sight device of FIG. 10A, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are perspective views of a bow sight device comprising integrated level devices, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an apparatus comprising a bow riser and bow sight device and a cap element having integrated level devices, which can be connected to an end portion of an elongated mounting bar of the bow sight device, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the disclosure will now be described in further detail with regard to archery bow risers and bow accessories having integrated level devices for use in, e.g., tuning and installing accessories on archery bows such as compound bows.

It is to be understood that various features shown in the accompanying drawings are schematic illustrations that are not drawn to scale. Moreover, the same or similar reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to denote the same or similar features, elements, or structures, and thus, a detailed explanation of the same or similar features, elements, or structures will not be repeated for each of the drawings. Further, the term “exemplary” as used herein means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment or design described herein as “exemplary” is not to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or designs. Further, it is to be understood that the phrase “configured to” as used in conjunction with a structure, element, component, etc., providing some functionality, is intended to encompass embodiments where the structure, element, component, etc., is able to provide a specific functionality when in an operational state, as well as cover embodiments where the structure, element, component, etc., is in a non-operational state (e.g., not connected nor otherwise deployed in a given apparatus or system), etc.

With initial reference to FIG. 1, an exemplary compound bow 100 is shown, which can be tuned and accessorized using leveling devices and methods according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. In general, the compound bow 100 comprises a bow riser 102, an upper limb 104 and lower limb 106 attached to opposite ends of the bow riser 102, upper and lower cam elements 108 and 110, cables 112, and a bow string 114. The bow string 114 includes a nocking loop 116 (e.g., D-loop), and a peep sight 118. Various accessories are attached to the bow riser 102 including, for example, a bow sight device 120, a cable guard 122, an arrow rest element 124, and a stabilizer device 126. The bow riser 102 comprises a grip region 128, which is held by an individual when using the compound bow 100. The functions of the various components of the compound bow 100 shown in FIG. 1 are well known in the art and, therefore, no detailed discussion is necessary for understanding embodiments of the disclosure.

Briefly, the arrow rest element 124 is a device which is installed on the bow riser 102 and utilized to hold an arrow in place while the arrow is being drawn. The arrow rest element 124 helps stabilize the arrow while shooting the arrow, and reduces vibration of the arrow upon release of the arrow. There are different styles of arrow rests for bows including, e.g., a plunger style, a containment ring style, and a fall away style. The bow sight device 120 is a device that is utilized for accurately aiming an arrow. The bow sight device 120 can have a single sight pin to align with a target, or multiple sight pins that are used to align with a target for different distances.

The nocking loop 116 is a piece of cord that is attached by, e.g., cinch knots, to the bow string 114 at two points between a “nocking point” of the bow string 114. The nocking point is the point on the bow string 114 at which an arrow nock element (at an end portion of an arrow shaft) is placed on the bow string 114. With a D-loop type nocking loop 116, the nocking point on the bow string 114 is the point located between the two attachment points of the nocking loop 116 on the bow string 114. The predefined nocking point serves as a common point for placing the arrow nock of an arrow to achieve consistent results when shooting the arrows.

FIG. 1 further depicts a dashed line A-A which denotes a central longitudinal axis of the bow riser 102, as well as a three-axis coordinate system 130 including an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis, which are all orthogonal in relation to each other. In FIG. 1, the X-axis and Y-axis are shown to extend orthogonal to each other in a 2D plane of the drawing, and the Z-axis is shown to extend in a direction in and out of the drawing. Moreover, FIG. 1 shows that the central longitudinal axis A-A of the bow riser 102 extends in the same direction as the Y-axis. In accordance with principles of the disclosure, when tuning the compound bow 100 or when installing accessories on the bow riser 102, it is desirable to maintain the bow riser 102 level in a vertical direction. By way of specific example, with regard to the coordinate system 130 shown in FIG. 1, the central longitudinal axis A-A of the bow riser 102 should be maintained level in the Y-axis direction. One method to position the central longitudinal axis A-A of the bow riser 102 in a level vertical orientation is to concurrently position both the X-axis and the Z-axis in a level horizontal orientation. Indeed, by principles of geometry, when the X-axis and the Z-axis are both leveled in a horizontal orientation, it necessarily follows that the Y-axis is level in a vertical orientation. These geometric concepts are implemented in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure which include inventive techniques for utilizing a bow riser and/or the bow sight device with integrated level devices for tuning an archery bow, e.g., determining a nocking point on the bow string, making bow sight adjustments, etc.

For example, FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C are perspective views of a bow sight device 200 comprising one or more integrated level devices, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. As shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C, the bow sight device 200 comprises a mounting bracket 210 and a sight housing 220 (alternatively referred to as sight head) which is adjustably connected to the mounting bracket 210. The mounting bracket 210 comprises a first set of mounting holes 211-1 and 211-2, a second set of mounting holes 212-1 and 212-2, a third set of mounting holes 213-1 and 213-2, a clamp element 215, a first level device 230, and a second level device 231. The sight housing 220 comprises a sight window 222 (alternatively, sight aperture), a plurality of sight pins 224 disposed within the sight window 222, a slidable bracket 226, sight pin adjustment screws 228, and a level device 232 that is disposed at a base of the sight window 222.

The mounting bracket 210 is utilized to mount the bow sight device 200 to a bow riser using either (i) the first set of mounting holes 211-1 and 211-2 or (ii) the second set of mounting holes 212-1 and 212-2, which allows the sight housing 220 to be disposed on one of two different horizontal distances (e.g., X-direction) from the bow riser. The first set of mounting holes 211-1 and 211-2 and the second set of mounting holes 212-1 and 212-2 are configured to be aligned with industry standard threaded mounting holes that are drilled into a bow riser for mounting a bow sight device to the bow riser. For a first mounting position, threaded bolts are inserted through the first set of mounting holes 211-1 and 211-2 and screwed into the threaded mounting holes of the bow riser. Alternatively, for a second mounting position, threaded bolts are inserted through the second set of mounting holes 212-1 and 212-2 and screwed into the threaded mounting holes of the bow riser. In some embodiments, the third set of mounting holes 213-1 and 213-2 are utilized for mounting a bow accessory such as a bow quiver to the mounting bracket 210.

The clamp element 215 of the mounting bracket 210 is configured to slidably interface and engage with the slidable bracket 226 of the sight housing 220. The clamp element 215 comprises a locking screw 215-1 which is used to (i) tighten the clamp element 215 to either fixedly secure the slidable bracket 226 in a desired position, or (ii) loosen the clamp element 215 to allow the slidable bracket 226 to be adjustably moved (e.g., along the Z-axis) into a desired position. As shown in FIG. 2C, the slidable bracket 226 comprises a series of alignment marks 226-1 which are used as a guide to incrementally adjust the horizontal position (e.g., along the Z-axis direction) of the sight window 222 left or right, which provides a windage adjustment mechanism (e.g., essentially to dial in a wind offset into the sight window 222) to compensate for wind. As further shown in FIG. 2C, the sight window 222 comprises a series of alignment marks 222-1 which are used as a guide to incrementally adjust the vertical position (e.g., along the Y-axis direction) of the sight window 222 up or down, which provides an elevation adjustment mechanism to compensate for elevation when shooting an arrow.

In some embodiments, the clamp element 215 is screwed to the main body of the mounting bracket 210 using screws 215-2. This allows the clamp element 215 to be removably attached to the main body of the mounting bracket 21. In this regard, the clamp element 215 comprises a modular component which can have different structural configurations to slidably interface with slide bars of other sight housing devices. In other words, the mounting bracket 210 can be a universal mounting bracket that can be used with different (commercially available) sight housing devices by selectively using a given modular clamp element 215 which is designed to interface with the slide bar of a desired sight housing device.

As shown in FIG. 2C, in an exemplary embodiment, the bow sight device 200 comprises a multi-pin sighting device where the plurality of sight pins 224 in the sight window 222 comprise five (5) sight pins. The different sight pins correspond to different shooting distances. For example, in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2C, the 5 sight pins may correspond to 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 yards, respectively, where the upper most sight pin corresponds to 20 yards, and the lower most sight pin corresponds to 60 yards. In other embodiments, the sight window 222 may have 7 sight pins, 3 sight pins, or just one sight pin, as desired. The different sight pins are often implemented with different color markings or constructed with fiber-optics for visibility, which allows an archer to more easily differentiate the different pins/distances. At full draw, an archer will align a target at a given distance with a corresponding sight pin for aiming.

In some embodiments, the level devices 230, 231, and 232 of the bow sight device 200 comprise bubble level devices. The first level device 230 is disposed in a retaining cavity/channel 230-1 that is formed on a upper surface of the mounting bracket 210. The second level device 231 is disposed in a rounded rectangular-shaped cavity 231-1 formed in a sidewall surface of the mounting bracket 210. In some embodiments, the rounded rectangular-shaped cavity 231-1 is formed on one sidewall surface of the mounting bracket 210 and not exposed on the opposite sidewall surface of the mounting bracket 210. The level device 232 is fixedly attached to a bottom region of the sight window 222. In some embodiments, the level devices 230 and 232 are tubular-shaped bubble levels. On the other hand, in some embodiments, the level device 231 comprises a rounded rectangular-shaped profile.

For example, FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate a level device which can be implemented with a bow sight device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate a bubble level device 300 having a rounded rectangular-shaped profile, which is an exemplary embodiment of the bubble level device 231 shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C. FIG. 3A illustrates a top view of the rounded rectangular-shaped bubble level device 300, which shows that the bubble level device 300 comprises an outer shell 302 with a rounded rectangular-shaped profile, and an inner cavity 304 which is incompletely filled with a liquid (e.g., colored alcohol) leaving a bubble 306 in the inner cavity 304. FIG. 3B illustrates a bottom view of the rounded rectangular-shaped bubble level device 300, which shows that the bubble level device 300 comprises planar bottom surface with an opaque capping layer 308 which encloses the inner cavity 304 and maintains the liquid within the inner cavity 304. The planar bottom surface of the bubble level device 300 is disposed on a bottom recessed surface of the rounded rectangular-shaped cavity 231-1 that is formed in the sidewall surface of the mounting bracket 210 of FIGS. 2A-2C.

In some embodiments, the level devices 230, 231, and 232 of the bow sight device 200 are utilized to position a bow riser in a true vertically level position, and aid in performing bow tuning operations for tuning an archery bow, such as determining a nocking point on the bow string, making bow sight adjustments (first, second, and third axis adjustments), and installing other bow accessories such as installing an arrow rest on a bow riser, etc., the details of which will be explained in detail below in conjunction with FIGS. 4A and 4B.

To facilitate such bow tuning operations, referring to FIG. 2B, the first set of mounting holes 211-1 and 211-2 of the mounting bracket 210 are formed in vertical alignment in a Y-direction, wherein the first set of mounting holes 211-1 and 211-2 are aligned along a longitudinal axis A-A of the bow riser (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1) when the bow sight device 200 is mounted to the bow riser using the first set of mounting holes 211-1 and 211-2. Similarly, the second set of mounting holes 212-1 and 212-2 of the mounting bracket 210 are formed in vertical alignment in a Y-direction, wherein the second set of mounting holes 212-1 and 212-2 are aligned along the longitudinal axis A-A of the bow riser (FIG. 1), when the bow sight device 200 is mounted to the bow riser using the second set of mounting holes 212-1 and 212-2. As further shown in FIG. 2B, the retaining cavity 231-1 and the bubble level device 231 are horizontally disposed along a first direction (X-axis direction) which is orthogonal to the Y-axis and Z-axis directions. Moreover, the retaining cavity 230-1 and the bubble level device 230 are horizontally disposed along a second direction (Z-axis direction) which is orthogonal to the Y-axis and X-axis directions.

With the exemplary structural configuration of the bow sight device 200 as shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, each level device 230, 231, and 232 has a specific use for tuning, wherein such uses are independent of each other. For example, as explained in further detail below, the level device 231 on the sidewall surface of the mounting bracket 210 is utilized (independent of the level devices 230 and 232) to set a nocking point on a bow string. In addition, the level device 231 is utilized (independent of the level devices 230 and 232) to adjust a “first axis” of the bow sight device 200. Further, the level device 230 is utilized (independent of the level device 231) to adjust a “second axis” and a “third axis” of the bow sight device, using techniques as will now be described in further detail in conjunction with FIGS. 4A and 4B.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an apparatus comprising a bow riser and a bow sight device mounted to the bow riser, wherein the bow sight device comprises one or more integrated level devices, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, FIG. 4A illustrates an apparatus 400 comprising a bow riser 410 having the exemplary bow sight device 200 (of FIGS. 2A-2C) mounted thereon. In the exemplary configuration shown in FIG. 4A, the bow sight device 200 is mounted to the bow riser 410 using first and second threaded bolts 411 and 412 which are inserted through the first set of mounting holes 211-1 and 211-2 of the mounting bracket 210 and screwed into standard mounting holes that are drilled into the bow riser 410 for attaching the bow sight device 200 to the bow riser 410. With the exemplary bow sight device 200 mounted to the bow riser 410, the bow sight device 200 can be used to, e.g., facilitate bow tuning operations, perform adjustments of the bow sight device, and facilitate the installation of other bow accessories to the bow riser 410.

For example, with the structural configuration shown in FIG. 4A, as noted above, the bubble level device 231 on the sidewall surface of the mounting bracket 210 can be utilized (independent of the level devices 230 and 232) to set a nocking point on a bow string using a tuning process as follows. Initially, the bow riser 410 can be placed into a position where the bubble level device 231 indicates a level horizontal orientation along the X-axis. With the horizontal X-axis in a level orientation, the nocking point on the bow string can be determined irrespective of whether or not the bubble level device 230 on the upper surface of the mounting bracket 210 indicates a level orientation of the Z-axis. In other words, the nocking point on the bow string can be determined irrespective of whether the bubble level device 230 indicates a horizontal level orientation of the Z-axis.

Assuming that an arrow rest device is already installed on the bow riser 410, with the bubble level device 231 indicating that the horizontal X-axis is level, an arrow is placed in the arrow rest device and a nock element at the end of the arrow shaft is placed onto the bow string. A hand held level device (e.g., custom arrow level tool) is then placed on the arrow shaft, and the nock end of the arrow shaft is moved up or down on the bow string until the handheld arrow level device indicates that the arrow shaft is level. The nocking point will be the point on the bow string where the nock element of the arrow is positioned when the arrow shaft is horizontally level in the same horizontal X-axis orientation as indicated by the bubble level device 231 on the sidewall of the mounting bracket 210. Again, it is to be noted that the nocking point can be accurately determined irrespective of whether the bow sight device 200 is level in the Z-axis direction.

It is to be appreciated that since the bow sight device 200 remains mounted to the bow riser, after some period of time of shooting arrows, an archer can recheck the arrow nocking position to make sure it has not moved. The nocking point can be rechecked using the same process as discussed above in conjunction with the bubble level device 231 on the sidewall of the mounting bracket 210 of the bow sight device 200.

Furthermore, as noted above, the level device 231 is utilized (independent of the level devices 230 and 232) to adjust a “first axis” of the bow sight device 200. In the exemplary configuration of FIG. 4A, the “first axis” adjustment of the bow sight device 200 is achieved when the bow sight device 200 is mounted to the bow riser 410 and the bow riser 410 is placed into a position where the bubble level device 231 indicates a level horizontal orientation of the X-axis. In this structural configuration, the frame of the sight window 222 is assumed to be straight up and down, i.e., the top/bottom portion of the sight window 222 does not lean toward/away or away/toward the archer. In other embodiments, when the sight housing 220 includes specific adjustment screws to adjust the lean of the sight window 222, and when the bow sight device 200 is mounted to the bow riser 410 and the bow riser 410 is placed into a position where the bubble level device 231 indicates a level horizontal orientation of the X-axis, a handheld level device (e.g., bullet level) can be placed against the face of the sight window 222 to determine if the sight window 222 is vertically level. If not, the first axis adjustment screws or other mechanism can be used to adjustably move the sight window 222 into a vertical position such that a longitudinal vertical axis of the sight window 222 (in the Y-axis direction) is orthogonal to the X-axis that is fixed in the horizontal level position as indicated by the bubble level device 231.

Furthermore, as noted above, the level device 230 is utilized (independent of the level device 231) to adjust a “second axis” and a “third axis” of the bow sight device 200. For example, in the exemplary configuration of FIG. 4A, the “second axis” adjustment of the bow sight device 200 is achieved when the bow sight device 200 is mounted to the bow riser 410 and (i) the bow riser 410 is placed into a position where the bubble level device 230 on the upper surface of the mounting bracket 210 indicates a level horizontal orientation of the Z-axis, and (ii) the sight window 222 is positioned with the bubble of the level device 232 at the bottom of the sight window 222 matching the bubble of the level device 230 on the mounting bracket 210.

For example, FIG. 4B schematically illustrates a method for adjusting the second axis of the bow sight device 200 when mounted to the bow riser 410, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In FIG. 4B, it is assumed that the bow sight device 200 is mounted to the bow riser 410 and that the bow riser 410 is positioned such that the bubble levels 231 and 230 indicate horizontal level orientations in both the X-axis and Z-axis directions. FIG. 4B illustrates three different positions P1, P2, and P3 of the sight window 222 with the bubble level device 230 on the mounting bracket 210 indicating a horizontal level orientation in the Z-axis direction. The first and third positions P1 and P3 of the sight window 222 as shown in FIG. 4B are not level in the Z-axis direction, as indicated by the bubble level device 232 at the bottom of the sight window 222. On the other hand, the second position P2 of the sight window 222 is shown to be level in the Z-axis direction, as indicated by the bubble level device 232 at the bottom of the sight window 222. In the second position P2, it is assumed that the level indication of the bubble level device 232 matches the level indication of the bubble level device 230 on the mounting bracket 210, e.g., both of the level devices 230 and 232 indicate a horizontal level orientation in the Z-axis direction.

As schematically illustrated in FIG. 4B, the sight window 222 comprises sight window adjustment screws 222-1 and 222-2 which can be loosened to adjustably move the sight window 222 from the first position P1 or the third position P3 to the second position P2 to achieve the second axis adjustment. At the second position P2, where the sight window 222 is positioned in a level orientation along the horizontal Z-axis, the sight window adjustment screws 222-1 and 222-2 are tightened to maintain the sight window 222 in the second position P2.

It is to be noted that FIG. 2C illustrates an exemplary configuration in which the level indication of the bubble level device 232 (which is disposed at the bottom of the sight window 222) matches the level indication of the bubble level device 230 (which is disposed on the upper side surface of the mounting bracket 210), thereby providing an indication of a proper “second axis” adjustment of the bow sight device 200. Furthermore, FIG. 2C illustrates a “third axis” adjustment of the bow sight device 200. A “third axis” adjustment of the bow sight device 200 is performed following the “second axis” adjustment, to ensure that a longitudinal axis of the sight housing 220 is essentially perpendicular (orthogonal) to a longitudinal axis of the mounting bracket 210. Indeed, while the second axis adjustment process results in the longitudinal axis of the sight housing 220 (or sight window 220) being level in the X-Z plane, there can be an instance where the longitudinal axis of the sight housing 220 (or sight window 220) is not perpendicular to the plane (X-Y plane) of the mounting bracket 210.

In particular, FIG. 2C illustrates an exemplary X-Y-Z coordinate system in which the X-axis and the Z-axis are orthogonal (i.e., 90 degree). The X-axis is assumed to be aligned with a longitudinal axis L_B of the mounting bracket 210, and the Z-axis is assumed to be aligned with a longitudinal axis L_S of the sight housing 220 (or the sight window 222) when there is a proper “third axis” alignment. On the other hand, there can be a circumstance where the longitudinal axis L_S of the sight housing 220 (or the sight window 222) is aligned to an axis L₁ in which case the longitudinal axis L_S of the sight housing 220 (or the sight window 222) is disposed at an angle of greater than 90 degrees in relation to the X-axis and the longitudinal axis L_B of the mounting bracket 210, as graphically illustrated in FIG. 2C. Furthermore, there can be a circumstance where the longitudinal axis L_S of the sight housing 220 (or the sight window 222) is aligned to an axis L₂ in which case the longitudinal axis L_S of the sight housing 220 (or the sight window 222) is disposed at an angle of less than 90 degrees in relation to the X-axis and the longitudinal axis L_B of the mounting bracket 210, as graphically illustrated in FIG. 2C

In either circumstance of the improper third axis alignment, when shooting an arrow at a target on a flat ground, the bubble level device 232 at the bottom of the sight window 222 will read level assuming the second axis has been properly adjusted as discussed above. On the other hand, when shooting at a target uphill or downhill, when the bow is aimed uphill or downhill, the bubble level device 232 at the bottom of the sight window 222 will not read level, notwithstanding that the second axis has been properly adjusted. By way of specific example, assume that the longitudinal axis L_S of the sight window 222 is angled away and aligned to the axis L₁. As the bow is aimed uphill, the larger angle (greater than 90 degrees) on the third axis will take effect and the bubble of the level device 232 will move to the left of center (for a right handed shooter), indicating improper third axis alignment. Further, as the bow is aimed downhill, the larger angle (greater than 90 degrees) on the third axis will take effect and the bubble of the level device 232 will move to the right of center (for a right handed shooter), indicating an improper third axis alignment. The similar, but opposite bubble level readings of the bubble level device 232 occur when the longitudinal axis L_S of the sight window 222 is angled toward the shooter, e.g., aligned to the axis L₂ as shown in FIG. 2C.

In view of the above, a third axis alignment performed using the level devices 230 and 232. In particular, once the second axis alignment process is performed, the third axis alignment can be performed by aiming the bow downward (or upward) while keeping the bow riser 410 positioned such that the level device 230 on the top of the mounting bracket 210 reads level. If the reading of the level device 232 on the bottom of the sight window 222 remains level while the bow is being aimed downward or upward, then third axis alignment is achieved. On the other hand, if the reading of the level device 232 on the bottom of the sight window 222 does not remain level while the bow is being aimed downward or upward, then the angular orientation of the sight window 222 or sight housing 220 can be adjusted using a third axis adjustment mechanism of the bow sight device 200 (not specifically shown) to rotate the sight window 222 into a proper angular position in which the longitudinal axis L_S of the sight housing sight window 222 is disposed orthogonal to the longitudinal axis L_B of the mounting bracket 210.

It is to be noted that the exemplary bow tuning techniques as disclosed herein can be performed using a bow leveling tuning system such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,344,110, entitled Holder Apparatus For Positioning Archery Bow Relative To Orthogonal Axes, to adjustably position a bow riser in a vertical level orientation and fixedly hold the bow rise in place in a vertical level orientation while being tuned/accessorized. Commercially available products, which are based on the structural embodiments disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,344,110, are currently manufactured and sold by R.S. Bowvise Inc. These commercially available products are currently sold under the trade name R.S. BOW-VISE™. These commercially available bow leveling tuning products are configured to securely hold an archery bow in an upright position, while providing flexibility in tipping the archery bow backward and forward or side to side and locking in at any angle. These tuning devices enable hands free mounting of accessories to archery bows, and well as micro adjustment capabilities for nock alignment and bow sight installation.

It is to be appreciated that the integrated level devices 230 and 231 of the bow sight device 200 can be used to position a bow riser in a level vertical orientation and allow an individual to tune the bow or otherwise install other accessories (such as an arrow rest) on the bow riser with the bow riser fixed in a level position. For example, with a bow riser disposed in a proper level vertical orientation using the bubble level devices 230 and 231 of the bow sight device 200, an arrow rest device can be mounted to the riser and leveled in a horizontal orientation (X-axis direction) using a handheld level device.

In other embodiments of the disclosure, rather than using multiple bubble level devices on the bow sight device 200 to achieve level orientations in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions, bow risers can be fabricated with integrated level devices (e.g., integrated bubble levels) to assist with leveling and tuning. For example, FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a bow riser 500 having an integrated level device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. M ore specifically, as shown in FIG. 5A, the bow riser 500 includes an integrated level device 502-1 which is disposed within a cavity of the bow riser 500, or which is otherwise fixedly mounted to the body of the bow riser 500. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 5A, the integrated level device 502-1 is utilized to enable leveling in the Z-axis direction.

In this configuration, the integrated level device 502-1 is configured for use to perform the same or similar functions as the integrated level device 230 of the exemplary bow sight device 200, as discussed above. Moreover, in this configuration, an exemplary bow sight device can be fabricated with a single level device (e.g., bubble level device 231) to enable leveling in the X-axis direction, while the integrated level device 502-1 of the bow riser 500 is used to enable leveling in the Z-axis direction. As such, the integrated level device 502-1 of the bow riser 500, the integrated level device on the bow sight mounting bracket (e.g., bubble level device 231), and the integrated level device 232 on the bottom of the sight window 222 can be utilized to perform the same or similar tuning techniques as discussed above including, e.g., a first axis alignment, a second axis alignment, a third axis alignment, a nock point tuning, an arrow rest installation, etc.

Next, FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a bow riser having an integrated level device, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 5B, the bow riser 500 includes an integrated level device 502-2 which is disposed within a cavity of the bow riser 500, or which is otherwise fixedly mounted to the body of the bow riser 500. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 5B, the integrated level device 502-2 is utilized to enable leveling in the X-axis direction.

In this configuration, the integrated level device 502-2 is configured for use to perform the same or similar functions as the integrated level device 231 of the exemplary bow sight device 200, as discussed above. Moreover, in this configuration, an exemplary bow sight device can be fabricated with a single level device (e.g., bubble level device 230) to enable leveling in the Z-axis direction, while the integrated level device 502-2 of the bow riser 500 is used to enable leveling in the X-axis direction. As such, the integrated level device 502-2 of the bow riser, the integrated level device on the bow sight mounting bracket (e.g., level device 230), and the integrated level device 232 on the bottom of the sight window 222 can be utilized to perform the same or similar tuning techniques as discussed above including, e.g., a first axis alignment, a second axis alignment, a third axis alignment, a nock point tuning, an arrow rest installation, etc. The same concepts shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B applying to each of the exemplary bow sight devices discussed in further detail below.

FIG. 6A schematically illustrates a bow sight device which comprises one or more integrated level devices, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, FIG. 6A schematically illustrates a bow sight mounting bracket assembly 600 comprising a mounting bracket 610, a sight extension bar 620, and a clamp element 630. The mounting bracket 620 is configured to attach to a bow riser, and the sight extension bar 620 is configured to slidably engage with the mounting bracket 620 to adjust a distance of a bow sight from the bow riser. The clamp element 630 is configured to slidably engage a slidable bracket of sight housing (e.g., the slidable bracket 226 of the sight housing 220, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2C) to couple the sight housing to the mounting bracket assembly 600.

The mounting bracket 610 comprises at least one set of mounting holes 610-1 and 610-2 which are aligned with industry standard threaded mounting holes that are drilled into a bow riser for mounting a bow sight device to the bow riser. As noted above, threaded bolts are inserted through the mounting holes 610-1 and 610-2 and screwed into the threaded mounting holes of the bow riser. In addition, the mounting bracket 610 comprises a locking mechanism (e.g., set screw, screw knob, etc.) which is configured to fixedly secure the sight extension bar 620 into a desired position, or loosened to allow the sight extension bar 620 to be adjustably moved (e.g., along the X-axis) into a desired position.

As schematically shown in FIG. 6A, the sight extension bar 620 comprises first level device 621 (e.g., bubble level) and a second level device 622, which are utilized to facilitate tuning operations, as discussed above. The first level device 621 is disposed on a top side of the sight extension bar 620 and oriented in a Z-direction, and the second level device 622 is disposed on a side of the sight extension bar 620 and oriented in an X-direction. In this regard, the first level device 621 is disposed in a first direction which is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the sight extension bar 620, and the second level device 622 is disposed in a second direction that is parallel to (or otherwise aligned to) the longitudinal axis of the sight extension bar 620. The first and second level devices 621 and 622 are utilized to facilitate tuning operations in the same manner as the first and second level devices 230 and 231 of the mounting bracket 210 (FIGS. 2A-2C), as discussed above in conjunction with FIGS. 4A and 4B. For example, the second level device 622 is utilized (independent of other level devices) to set a nocking point on a bow string, and to adjust a “first axis” of the bow sight device. Further, the first level device 621 is utilized (independent of the level device 622) to adjust a “second axis” and a “third axis” of the bow sight device, in conjunction with a level device of a sight window of a sight housing (e.g., level device 232 of sight window 222 of sight housing 220 (FIGS. 2A-2C)) which is connected to the clamp element 630, using techniques as discussed above, the details of which will not be repeated.

FIG. 6B schematically illustrates a bow sight device which comprises one or more integrated level devices, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, FIG. 6B schematically illustrates a bow sight device 601 which is similar to the bow sight device 600 of FIG. 6A, the first and second level devices 621 and 622 are oriented in orthogonal directions, except that FIG. 6B illustrates an exemplary embodiment in which the first level device 621 is disposed on the top side of the sight extension bar 620 (oriented in a Z-direction), while the second level device 622 is disposed within a sidewall of the mounting bracket 610 (oriented in an X-direction). Other arrangements of the first and second level devices 621 and 622 on the mounting bracket 610 and the sight extension bar 620 are possible, as discussed herein.

It is to be noted that there are various types of bow sight mounting assemblies having sight extension bars, and that FIGS. 6A and 6B are merely presented as a non-limiting embodiments to illustrate the concept of incorporating level devices on a sight extension bar. For example, FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a bow sight device comprising one or more integrated level devices, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a bow sight device 700 which comprises a mounting bracket assembly 710, and a sight housing 740. The mounting bracket assembly 710 comprises a sight extension bar 720, and a mounting plate 730 fixedly connected to one end of the sight extension bar 720, which is configured to connect to the sight housing 740. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 7, the sight extension bar 720 is shown to extend in a X-direction, while the mounting plate 730 is shown to extend in a Z-direction. Similar to the bow sight mounting bracket assembly 600 of FIG. 6A, the mounting bracket assembly 710 comprises a mounting bracket (not specifically shown) which is configured to attach to a bow riser (i.e., bolted to a bow riser using threaded bolts that engage industry standard threaded mounting holes of the bow riser), and configured to slidably engage the sight extension bar 720 to adjust a distance (in X-direction) of the bow sight device 740 from the bow riser.

As schematically shown in FIG. 7, the sight extension bar 720 comprises first level device 721 (e.g., bubble level) and a second level device 722, which are utilized to facilitate tuning operations, as discussed above. The first level device 721 is disposed on a top side of the sight extension bar 720 and oriented in a Z-direction, and the second level device 722 is disposed on a sidewall of the sight extension bar 720 and oriented in an X-direction. In this regard, the first level device 721 is disposed in a first direction which is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the sight extension bar 720, and the second level device 722 is disposed in a second direction that is parallel to (or otherwise aligned to) the longitudinal axis of the sight extension bar 720. The first and second level devices 721 and 722 are utilized to facilitate tuning operations in the same manner as the first and second level devices 230 and 231 of the mounting bracket 210 (FIGS. 2A-2C), as discussed above in conjunction with FIGS. 4A and 4B. For example, the second level device 722 is utilized (independent of other level devices) to set a nocking point on a bow string, and to adjust a “first axis” of the bow sight device. Further, the first level device 721 is utilized (independent of the level device 722) to adjust a “second axis” and a “third axis” of the bow sight device 700, in conjunction with a bubble level of a sight window of the sight housing 740, using techniques as discussed above, the details of which will not be repeated.

In other embodiments of bow sight mounting assemblies having sight extension bars, first and second level devices can be disposed on the mounting bracket itself (e.g., mounting bracket 610, FIGS. 6A and 6B), instead of being disposed on the sight extension bar, wherein the first and second level devices (of the mounting bracket) are oriented in first and second directions that are perpendicular. For example, the mounting bracket 610 in FIGS. 6A and 6B can be designed to have (i) the first level device 621 disposed on a top side of the mounting bracket 610 and oriented in a Z-direction (or X-direction), and (ii) the second level device 622 disposed within the sidewall of the mounting bracket 610 and oriented in an X-direction (or Z-direction), to enable tuning operations as discussed herein. In this regard, mounting brackets with integrated levels can be separately designed and configured to operatively engage with sight extension bars of commercially available bow sight assemblies.

Moreover, similar to the exemplary embodiments discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 5A and 5B, the bow riser 500 can have a first level device oriented in a first direction, and the sight extension bar of a bow sight mounting assembly (which is mounted to the bow riser 500) can have a second level device oriented in a second direction, which is orthogonal to the first direction. In this configuration, with the bow sight mounting assembly mounted to the bow riser 500, the first and second level devices facilitate tuning in multiple axes.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspective views of an apparatus comprising a bow riser and a bow sight device mounted to the bow riser, wherein the bow sight device comprises one or more integrated level devices, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrates an apparatus 800 comprising a bow riser 810 having the exemplary bow sight device 200 (of FIGS. 2A-2C) with a mounting bracket 210-1 which has a modified architecture from the mounting bracket 210 shown in FIGS. 2A-2C. The mounting bracket 210-1 is mounted to the bow riser 810 using first and second threaded bolts 811 and 812 which are inserted through the first set of mounting holes 211-1 and 211-2 of the mounting bracket 210-1 and screwed into standard mounting holes that are drilled into the bow riser 810 for attaching the bow sight device 200 to the bow riser 810. The bow sight device 200 in FIGS. 8A and 8B has a slightly different configuration of the mounting bracket 210-1 in which the first level device 230 is disposed on a back sidewall surface of the mounting bracket 210-1 and orientated in a Z-direction, as opposed to being disposed on a top side surface of the mounting bracket 210 and oriented in the Z-direction, as shown in, e.g., FIG. 2A. In this regard, the first level device 230 is disposed in a first direction which is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the mounting bracket 210-1, and the second level device 231 is disposed in a second direction that is parallel to (or otherwise aligned to) the longitudinal axis of the mounting bracket 210-1.

In this configuration, disposing the first level device 230 on the backside sidewall surface of the mounting bracket 210-1 (FIGS. 8A and 8B) serves the same purpose as disposing the first level device 230 on the top side surface of the mounting bracket (FIG. 2A). However, as shown in FIG. 8B, disposing the first level device 230 on the backside sidewall surface of the mounting bracket 210-1 allows an individual to more easily simultaneously view the first level device 230 (disposed on the backside sidewall surface of the mounting bracket 210-1) and the level device 232 that is disposed at a base of the sight window 222. This configuration allows both level devices 230 and 232 to be more easily simultaneously viewed when adjusting a “second axis” and a “third axis” of the bow sight device 200.

For example, as noted above, the “second axis” adjustment of the bow sight device 200 is achieved when the bow sight device 200 is mounted to the bow riser 810 and (i) the bow riser 810 is placed into a position where the bubble level device 230 on the backside sidewall surface of the mounting bracket 210-1 indicates a level horizontal orientation of the Z-axis and (ii) the sight window 222 is positioned with the bubble of the level device 232 at the bottom of the sight window 222 matching the bubble of the level device 230 on the mounting bracket 210-1. FIG. 8B illustrates the exemplary configuration which facilitates the simultaneous viewing of both level devices 230 and 232 when adjusting a “second axis” and a “third axis” of the bow sight device 200.

FIG. 9 schematically illustrates a bow sight device comprising one or more integrated level devices, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, FIG. 9 schematically illustrates a bow sight device 900 which comprises a mounting bracket assembly 910, and a sight housing 940. The mounting bracket assembly 910 comprises a sight extension bar 920, and a mounting plate 930 fixedly connected to one end of the sight extension bar 920, which is configured to connect to the sight housing 940. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 9, the sight extension bar 920 is shown to extend in a X-direction, while the mounting plate 930 is shown to extend in a Z-direction. Similar to the bow sight mounting bracket assembly 600 of FIG. 6A, the mounting bracket assembly 910 comprises a mounting bracket (not specifically shown) which is configured to attach to a bow riser (i.e., bolted to a bow riser using threaded bolts that engage industry standard threaded mounting holes of the bow riser), and configured to slidably engage the sight extension bar 920 to adjust a distance (in X-direction) of the bow sight device 940 from the bow riser.

It is to be noted that the bow sight device 900 of FIG. 9 is similar to the bow sight device 700 of FIG. 7 in that the sight extension bar 920 comprises first level device 921 which is oriented in a Z-direction, and a second level device 922 which is oriented in an X-direction, and utilized to facilitate tuning operations, as discussed above. In this regard, the first level device 921 is disposed in a first direction which is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the sight extension bar 920, and the second level device 722 is disposed in a second direction that is parallel to (or otherwise aligned to) the longitudinal axis of the sight extension bar 720. However, FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary configuration in which the first level device 921 is disposed on the end of the sight extension bar 920 and oriented in the Z-direction (instead of on the top side of the sight extension bar 720 as shown in FIG. 7). The placement of the first level device 921 on the end of the sight extension bar 920 serves the same purpose as the level device 230 shown in FIG. 8B, i.e., allowing an individual to more easily simultaneously view the first level device 921 (disposed on the end of the sight extension bar 920) and a level device that is disposed at a base of the sight window of the sight device 940.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of an apparatus comprising a bow riser and bow sight device comprising integrated level devices and mounted to the bow riser, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, FIG. 10A illustrates an apparatus 1000 comprising a bow riser 1010 and a bow sight device 1020 mounted to the bow riser 1010. FIG. 10B is a perspective view of the bow sight device 1020 of FIG. 10A. The bow riser 1010 comprises sight mounting holes 1011-1 and 1011-2 for mounting a bow sight device (such as shown in FIG. 4A). However, as an alternative mounting method of using the sight mounting holes 1011-1 and 1011-2 to mount a sight device using mounting bolts on the side of the bow riser 1010 (such as shown in FIGS. 4A and 8A), the bow riser 1010 comprises first and second slots 1012A and 1012B, which are configured to slidably receive a mounting bar 1021 of the sight device 1020, wherein the sight device 1020 is fixedly secured in place using a setscrew 1013 that is recessed into the bow riser 1010 above the mounting bar 1021 of the sight device 1020. In some embodiments, the first and second slots 1012A and 1012B of the bow riser 1010 are dovetail-shaped slots, and the mounting bar 1021 has a corresponding dovetail-shaped cross-section which is inserted into and through the first and second slots 1012A and 1012B of the bow riser 1010. In other embodiments, the first and second slots 1012A and 1012B of the bow riser 1010 and the cross-section of the mounting bar 1021 can have other corresponding shapes.

As collectively shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the sight device 1020 comprises a sight window 1022, a first level device 1023, a second level device 1024, and a third level device 1025. The first level device 1023 is disposed on the end of the mounting bar 1021 and oriented in a Z-direction. The second level device 1024 is disposed within a sidewall of the mounting bar 1021 of the sight device 1020 and oriented in an X-direction (e.g., shooting direction). In this regard, the first level device 1023 is disposed in a first direction which is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the mounting bar 1021, and the second level device 622 is disposed in a second direction that is parallel to (or otherwise aligned to) the longitudinal axis of the mounting bar 1021. The third level device 1025 is disposed on the bottom of the sight window 1022 and oriented in a Z-direction. The first, second, and third level devices 1023, 1024, and 1025 are utilized to perform tuning operations as discussed above. For example, the second level device 1024 is utilized (independent of other level devices) to set a nocking point on a bow string, and to adjust a “first axis” of the bow sight device 1020. Further, the first level device 1023 is utilized (independent of the second level device 1024) to adjust a “second axis” and a “third axis” of the bow sight device 1020 in conjunction with the third level device 1025 at the bottom of the sight window 1022 of the sight housing 1022, using techniques as discussed above, the details of which will not be repeated. Moreover, as discussed above for other embodiments, the placement of the first level device 1023 on the end of the mounting bar 1021 allows an individual to more easily simultaneously view the first level device 1023 (disposed on the end of the mounting bar 1021) and third level device 1025 of the sight window 1022, when performing tuning operations.

It is to be noted that the sight device 1020 shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B eliminates the need to screw a separate mounting bracket to the bow riser 1010, as the mounting bar 1021 serves as the mounting bracket of the bow sight device 1020, as well as a sight extension bar to adjust a distance (in the X-direction) of the sight window 1022 from a bow riser. In this regard, a bow sight device having a relatively long mounting bar can be used to slidably engage corresponding slots of a bow riser for purposes of mounting (such as shown in FIG. 10A), as well as enable an individual to adjust a distance (in the X-direction) of the sight window from the bow riser (e.g., to adjust the distance of the sight window 1022 from the eye of the individual).

Moreover, in other embodiments of bow sight devices with elongated sight extension bars or mounting bars, a cap element with a level can be placed on an end portion of the elongated sight extension bar or mounting bar of the sight device, after the sight device is mounted to the bow riser (via a separate bracket or through slots of the bow riser). For example, in FIG. 9, the level device 921 can be a component of a cap element that is placed on the end of the sight extension bar 920.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are perspective views of a bow sight device 1100 comprising integrated level devices, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. As collectively shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the bow sight device 1100 comprises a sight window 1110, a bow sight mounting bracket assembly 1120, a first level device 1130, a second level device 1131, and a third level device 1132. The mounting bracket assembly 1120 comprises a mounting bracket 1121, a slidable sight extension bar 1122, and a sight window connection element 1123. The mounting bracket 1121 comprises a plurality of mounting holes 1121-1 and 1121-2 for mounting to a bow riser, as discussed above. The slidable sight extension bar 1122 is configured to slidably engage with the mounting bracket 1121 and be set in place using a set screw 1121-3. The sight window connection element 1123 is configured to attach the sight window 1110 to the slidable extension bar 1122.

The first level device 1130 is fixedly disposed within an end sidewall surface of the slidable sight extension bar 1122 and oriented in a Z-direction. The second level device 1131 is fixedly mounted in a sidewall surface of the mounting bracket 1121 in a region below the set screw 1121-3, and oriented in an X-direction. The third level device 1132 is disposed on bottom of the sight window 1110 and oriented in a Z-direction. The first, second, and third level devices 1130, 1131, and 1132, are utilized for tuning along multiple axes, as discussed above. Moreover, as discussed above for other embodiments, the placement of the first level device 1130 on the end of the slidable extension bar 1122 allows an individual to easily simultaneously view the first level device 1130 and the third level device 1132 of the sight window 1022.

With the exemplary configuration shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the mounting bracket assembly 1120 can fabricated and sold as a standalone mounting bracket assembly with integrated level devices (e.g., the first and second level devices 1130 and 1131), where the sight window connection element 1123 is designed to interface with, or otherwise couple to, commercially available sight window of bow sight devices. This allows an individual to purchase a commercially available bow sight device and remove the sight window component and attach it to the exemplary mounting bracket assembly 1120 with the integrated level devices 1130 and 1131.

Moreover, in other embodiments of bow sight devices with elongated sight extension bars or mounting bars, as noted above, a cap element with one or more level devices can be placed on an end portion of the elongated sight extension bar or mounting bar of the bow sight device, after the sight device is mounted to the bow riser via a separate mounting bracket or through slots of the bow riser, as discussed above. For example, FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an apparatus 1200 comprising a bow riser 1210, a bow sight device 1220 having a sight window 1222, and a cap element 1230 having integrated level devices, which can be connected to an end portion of an elongated mounting bar of the bow sight device 1220, according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In particular, as shown in FIG. 12, the bow sight device 1220 comprises an elongated mounting bar 1221, and a sight window 1222. The elongated mounting bar 1221 is configured to insertably slide through slots 1212A of the bow riser 1210 (e.g., dovetail-shaped slots). The slots 1212A of the bow riser 1210 are configured to slidably receive the elongated mounting bar 1221 of the bow sight device 1220, wherein the elongated mounting bar 1221 is fixedly secured in place using a setscrew 1213 that is recessed into the bow riser 1210.

The cap element 1230 comprises a first level device 1231 and a second level device 1232. The cap element 1230 is designed to slidably connect to the end of the elongated mounting bar 1221 after the elongated mounting bar 1221 is inserted through the slots 1212A of the bow riser 1210. The first level device 1231 is fixedly disposed on or within a backside surface of the cap element 1230 and oriented in a Z-direction. The second level device 1232 is fixedly disposed on or within a side surface of the cap element 1230 and oriented in a X-direction. Moreover, as with other embodiments discussed above, a third level device (not shown in FIG. 12) is disposed on bottom of the sight window 1222 and oriented in a Z-direction. The first and second level devices 1231 and 1232 of the cap element 1230, in conjunction with the third level device of the bow sight window 1222, are utilized to perform tuning operations along multiple axes, as discussed above. Moreover, as discussed above for other embodiments, the placement of the first level device 1231 on the backside of the cap element 1230 allows an individual to easily simultaneously view the first level device 1231 and the third level device of the sight window 1222.

It is to be noted that the exemplary embodiments discussed here are meant to be illustrative, non-limiting embodiments of bow sight devices and associated sight mounting brackets which are configured to mount the bow sight devices to bow risers, and which have one or more integrated level devices for purposes of performing tuning operations as discussed above. Other types of bow sight brackets can be implemented with integrated level devices. For example, some commercially available bow sight devices utilize a Picatinny rail mount to enable attachment of a bow sight window to a bow riser, wherein a Picatinny rail mount is configured, for example, to be slidably inserted through slotted openings of a bow riser and held in place by suitable set screws or mounting bolts. The bow sight window element can be adjustably mounted to a given slot of a plurality of slots of the Picatinny rail mount to adjust the distance between the bow sight window and the bow riser. In an exemplary embodiment, a Picatinny rail mount can be designed to have one or more integrated level devices, similar to the mounting brackets, sight extension bars, or elongated mounting bars as discussed herein. In this regard, although exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described herein with reference to the accompanying figures, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that various other changes and modifications may be made therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the appended claims.