Optical system providing four beams from a single source
US7006298B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 5, 2004 |
| Grant date | Feb 28, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 5, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B27/144
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system to produce orthogonal beams includes a laser diode operating in conjunction with a collimating lens, an aperture, and a simple compact optic. Three collimated beams are directed toward an optic comprised of components that are bonded together. Beams are reflected from two optical components at right angles to produce plumb beams. Additionally, a beam is reflected from the optic at a right angle, as well as transmitted through the optic, to produce square and level beams. All four beams are orthogonal to each other, have relatively equal power, and are aligned and oriented so as to appear to be originating from a coincident point. Optionally, a fifth orthogonal beam may be produced. An optic in the shape of a cuboid comprised of six small components is also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.