COMPACT SYSTEM FOR PRESENTING WIDE FIELD OBJECT TARGET TO TEST OPTIC OR SYSTEM

摘要

Apparatus for evaluating optical components and systems that uses a precision compact mirror support structure to present to an optical system or electro-optical system (e.g., a camera) multiple images of at least one optical evaluation target over a wide field to allow assessment of the performance or alignment of the optical or electro-optical system over its intended field of use. The mirror support structure generates multiple images of an optical evaluation target by providing multiple folded optical paths between the target and the desired field locations of the test optic. The mirrors employed may either be parallel or at angles with respect to one another.

主权项

1. Apparatus for providing a plurality of images of at least one optical evaluation target over a predetermined field of use of a test optic, said apparatus having an optical axis and comprising:
a generally hollow mirror support structure, said hollow mirror support structure having entrance and exit apertures in line along the optical axis, said generally hollow mirror support structure having a plurality of individual mirror mounts positioned around the optical axis with each mount arranged to locate each mirror at a predetermined angle with respect to the optical axis, each individual mirror mount having at least three points sufficient to establish the planar location and angular orientation of its corresponding mirror, said hollow mirror mount support structure also having a deterministic reference plane with which the optical axis is precisely aligned; and a plurality of mirrors one each of which is placed in a corresponding one of said mirror mounts, the length of said apparatus along the optical axis, the position and orientation of said mirrors with respect to the optical axis and said entrance and exit apertures being such that said apparatus generates multiple images of an optical evaluation target apparent through said entrance aperture by providing multiple folded optical paths between the optical evaluation target and the desired field locations of the test optic.