Patent Number: 
Section: abstract

An illumination system for wavelengths xe2x89xa6193 run comprises (a) a first raster element upon which a light bundle emitted from a light source impinges, for producing a convergent light bundle having a focal point, and (b) a second raster element. The convergent light bundle impinges on the second raster element outside the focal point. There is also provided an illumination system for wavelengths xe2x89xa6193 nm, comprising (a) a first plurality of raster elements upon which a light bundle emitted from a light source impinges, for producing a plurality of convergent light bundles, where a member of the first plurality of raster elements produces a member of the plurality of convergent light bundles having a focal point, and (b) a second plurality of raster elements. The member of the plurality of convergent light bundles impinges on a member of the second plurality of raster elements outside the focal point.