Abstract: An infrared camera including optics and a detector sensitive to infrared radiation is used in conjunction with at least one light source, such as a laser, to locate a reference point on a target. Two intersecting line segments are produced by the one light source or a combination of two light sources to locate the reference point on the target. The infrared camera would display both an infrared image as well as a visible image which can be merged onto a single display. The teaching of the present invention could also be used to determine the distance to the target as well as the area of the target.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system for modulating thermal infrared radiation for a pyroelectric imaging sensor or similar sensor by providing two discs rotating at the same speed, both discs provided adjacent to one another and between a source of radiation and a radiation sensor. Each of the discs is provided with a solid portion and an open portion. Changing the orientation of the solid portions of each the discs with respect to one another would change the sensitivity of the modulation device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to correct and eliminate optical anomalies and geometrical distortions in an intensified imaging system, specifically a night vision system. An image is received from the original objective lens assembly of an unintensified imaging system which, presumably, has been designed to produce images sized in accordance with the image sensor size of its host camera or camcorder. The format matching lens assembly receives the image from the original objective lens system and magnifies it so that it is output onto the entire circular active area of a mechanically inserted image intensifier. Having received an image across its entire circular active area, the image intensifier is able to amplify or intensify the image using the received light without creating any optical distortions. Once intensified without distortion, the image must be still further modified to fit its original format size.

Abstract: An intensifying system adapted to be affixed to an electronic imaging device such as a single lens reflex camera or a video camera. The system includes a central intensifying unit for intensifying an image at lower light levels. A back body adapter and a front lens adapter would combine with the central intensifying unit and would be attached to the body of the camera. An electronic objective lens which is normally attached to the camera, would be removed and would be affixed to the front lens adapter.

Abstract: Infrared radiation onto a pyroelectric vidicon TV camera is converted to a stable visible image by recourse to a rotational modulator which rotates the pyroelectric vidicon target with respect to the incoming radiation, about the rotational symmetry axis of the said target, without rotating the readout electron beam of the vidicon. The rotational motion may be continuous or cyclically reversible. Electronic assemblies may be rotated with the vidicon tube in order to simplify electrical contact means.