Patent ID: 6832843
Filing Date: 2004-12-21
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
An illumination system comprising:at least one reflector subtending an angle with respect to a location on a surface of an article and having formed therein a light transmissive region; a light source consisting of first and second light illuminators, said light transmissive region being configured to permit light from a first one of said first and second illuminators to pass therethrough; and an optical element including at least one reflecting surface disposed intermediate said first one of said first and second illuminators and said light transmissive region for directing the light output of said first one of said first and second illuminators through said light transmissive region; said first and second illuminators each providing a light output, the light outputs from both of said first and second illuminators being directed to impinge on said location on said surface of an article from within said angle, at least one of said light outputs being reflected by said reflector, wherein a light output from said first illuminator illuminates said location from within a solid angle of illumination that is narrower than said angle.