Patent ID: 7072107

Claim:
A modular binocular-like vision assembly for enabling an observer to view an object, said assembly comprising: at least two optical modules including a first optical module comprising a first input end that receives light from said object, a first output end that receives light from said first input end, a first outer module mechanical attachment port, and a first outer module electrical connector, wherein said first output end defines a first optical axis along which light received from said first input end is transmitted; a second optical module removably separable from said first optical module, said second optical module comprising a second input end that receives light from said object, and a second output end that receives light from said second input end, a second outer module mechanical attachment port, and a second outer module electrical connector, wherein said second output end defines a second optical axis along which light received from said second input end is transmitted; a bridge removably separable from said first and second optical modules; first attachment means for enabling the removable attachment and detachment of said first and second optical modules to said bridge in spaced-apart parallel fashion; and second attachment means for removably attaching and detaching a third and a fourth optical module to respective said first and second optical modules, thereby converting the binocular-like vision assembly to panoramic viewing wherein the horizontal field of vision achieved with four optical modules is approximately 80 degrees or greater, said second attachment means including electrical connector means provided between said optical modules for permitting free flow of electrical power and information between said modules when the modules are mechanically attached, said second attachment means operating to removably secure said third and fourth optical modules to the first and second optical modules in proper viewing alignment, and wherein each said optical module is individually sealed and self-contained such that the removal of any one of said optical modules does not affect the optical performance of any remaining optical module.