Scanning apparatus and associated method
US6680788B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 12, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jan 20, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 6, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01S5/423
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A scanning apparatus adapted to track or other wise communicate with a remote object is provided, comprising a plurality of individually actuatable laser devices, each laser device emitting a laser beam. The scanning apparatus further comprises a moveable lens member disposed adjacent to the output ports such that the laser beams are directed therethrough, the lens member being moveable and cooperable with the laser devices such that each laser beam is directed in a different direction after passing through the lens member. The scanning apparatus is further configured to provide laser beam agility by selectively actuating individual laser devices so as to coarsely track the remote object and to provide laser beam steerability by moving the lens member with respect to an actuated laser device so as to finely track the remote object. An associated method is also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.