Patent ID: 6037593
Filing Date: 2000-03-14
Classification: G01J,G02B,G08B,Y10S

Abstract:
A catoptric optical system that enhances the ability of a radiation sensor to detect motion of a radiant source within a region of a three-dimensional space, comprising:first and second pairs of spaced-apart curved reflector elements arranged to form a chamber having a radiation reflective interior with an opening at each of first and second ends, each of the reflector elements having a curved surface with an amount of curvature, and the reflective elements of each of the first and second pairs positioned in opposed relationship and separated by respective first and second distances;a radiation sensor having a top surface positioned proximal to one of the first and second ends of the chamber; andthe first and second distances separating the reflective elements of each pair and the amounts of curvature of the reflective elements of each pair cooperating to establish for detection by the radiation sensor discrete zones of sensitivity that correspond to distinct angles of incidence of radiant flux that propagates from the region of the three-dimensional space and strikes the radiation sensor.