Patent ID: 7057647

Claim:
A multi-imager camera operable under extremes of illuminations from high ambient lighting conditions to low ambient lighting conditions without the need for multiple optical paths, comprising: a. a single primary lens system for directing a beam; b. a beam-splitting mirror adapted for receiving and distributing the beam directed by the single lens; c. the beam-splitting mirror including a surface for dual-path diverting capability, wherein a first portion of the directed beam is diverted in one direction and a second portion of the directed beam is diverted in a second direction; d. the surface of the beam-splitting mirror is entirely partially-reflective and entirely partially-transmissive for creating different intensities of the beam; e. a first image sensor for receiving the first portion of the directed beam; f. a second image sensor for receiving the second portion of the directed beam; g. wherein each image sensor includes an iris and an iris controller for selectively activating and deactivating each iris; and h. wherein the iris controller comprises an iris driver and an iris actuator.