Multiple image camera and lens system
US7961398B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 5, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jun 14, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 23, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B27/1066
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system for simultaneously producing multiple images substantially identical images on multiple separate detector planes is disclosed. A reflective spatially beam-splitting element preferably comprising multiple reflective areas is preferably placed at a location substantially coincident with the pupil or aperture of the system. In non-diffraction limited systems, each area preferably comprises an actual cross section that is circular or has the rotational symmetry (or a multiple thereof) of the number of images to be formed. In diffraction limited systems, all of the areas preferably comprise actual cross sections that have the same shape, size and orientation with respect to the incoming optical beam. Each individual actual cross section may be due to the shape of each area, optionally in combination with a mask. Appropriate selection of filters enables real-time multi-spectral scientific imaging, imaging polarimetry, or high dynamic range imaging (HDRI) for photography and cinematography, even with a moving camera and/or moving subjects.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.