Patent ID: 6222683
Filing Date: 2001-04-24
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A partial panoramic imaging arrangement comprising:a transparent component having:a first surface, about an axis of revolution, having a convex profile with a first curvature in a plane of said axis of revolution;a second surface, about said axis of revolution, having a first concave profile with a second curvature in said plane of said axis of revolution, said second surface being substantially spherical; andan opening formed within the transparent component to define a third internal surface, about said axis of revolution, having a second concave profile with a third curvature in said plane of said axis of revolution, said first curvature being larger than said third curvature; anda reflective material on said second surface to provide a reflective surface against said second surface;wherein said first surface and said reflective surface are positioned relative to one another so that light, from a greater than 90 degree surrounding partial panoramic scene, enters the transparent component through said first surface, is reflected from said reflective surface, and leaves the transparent component through said third internal surface.