Abstract: A miniature prism assembly which in its preferred embodiment utilizes a one inch prism, a stationary target, a yoke, and a housing bracket, all in an integrated unit which can be strung with a plumb line without removing the reflective prism housing from the yoke and which can be strung in the same manner irrespective of whether the prism is adjusted for a 0 or 30 millimeter offset and while the target remains with the yoke. Further, the present invention utilizes a stationary target easily mounted and having a center line that does not alter its position irrespective of the elevation of the prism. The novel yoke and target of the present invention permit the stringing of a plumb line while the target remains affixed to the yoke by utilizing unique bushings and dual purpose slots which permit plumb line stringing around the periphery of the yoke and simultaneously assist to retain the target.

Abstract: A prism assembly and sighting target which are omni-directional in azimuth and which provide a plurality of prisms dispersed symmetrically around the radial wall of a cylinder for reflecting incident laser light from any direction over 360 degrees in azimuth. A uniquely shaped sighting target for use with the prism assembly of the invention provides a visible target pattern from any direction over 360 degrees in azimuth. A cylindrical housing portion of the invention provides receptacles for receiving six prisms spaced at 60 degree intervals so that irrespective of the angle of azimuth from which the laser light is incident, a sufficient amount of light energy is reflected back to the laser light instrument to permit distance measuring over a pre-selected minimum distance.

Abstract: An improved combination of prism assembly and sighting target in a novel structure in which the sighting target provides a dual function by acting as the structural support for the prism assembly in addition to its usual function of providing a readily observable target from long distances. More specifically, the present invention provides, in a preferred embodiment, a diamond shaped sighting target, the center of which is provided with an aperture for receiving the prism assembly housing which extends therethrough in a direction normal to the plane of the sighting target. The prism housing is secured to the sighting target by means of a bracket into which the prism assembly is threaded, the bracket being secured to the sighting target.

Abstract: A method of constructing a lens of the type receiving a collimated beam of input radiation for transmitting a narrow sheet of output radiation of substantially uniform intensity over an angular range of approximately + and -45 degrees relative to the input radiation beam. The method includes steps relating to defining the lens surface geometry and to implementing that geometry on a transmissive material having an index of refraction no greater than 1.6. The implementation of the method employs grinding and polishing steps which may be carried out by a disclosed lapping machine.

Abstract: A retro-reflective prism assembly for use with electronic distance measuring instruments in surveying and other civil engineering applications. The unique structure permits tilting and plunging the assembly without requiring a separate tiltable bracket. A novel housing and sealing arrangement positions and seals the prism for limiting shock and preventing water leakage while obviating any need for coating the rear surfaces of the prism. An eccentric tilting knob simplifies angular tilt setting while a convenient transit knob simplifies azimuth adjustment. Vertical sighting holes in the yoke of the assembly provide for convenient plumbing of the assembly. A uniquely configured dust cover is designed for convenient storage on the back of the prism housing during use of the assembly.

Abstract: A combined sighting target and bracket adapted for receiving a reflector housing for use with electronic distance measuring instruments in surveying and other civil engineering applications. The unique structure permits adjustment of three parameters that render the present invention generally compatible for use in conjunction with virtually any kind of electronic distance measuring instrument. One such adjustment, namely, vertical displacement between a reflector housing and the sighting target, permits duplication of any offset distance that exists between a telescope and ranging optics of the remotely located measuring instrument. The other adjustment features include elevation and azimuth angle variations that permit orientation of the reflecting device to be virtually normal with respect to the incoming and reflected laser, infrared, or other such energy commonly used by such electronic distance measuring instruments.

Abstract: A combined sighting target and bracket adapted for receiving a reflector housing for use with electronic distance measuring instruments in surveying and other civil engineering applications. The unique structure permits adjustment of three parameters that render the present invention generally compatible for use in conjunction with virtually any kind of electronic distance measuring instrument. One such adjustment, namely, vertical displacement between a reflector housing and the sighting target, permits duplication of any offset distance that exists between a telescope and ranging optics of the remotely located measuring instrument. The other adjustment features include elevation and azimuth angle variations that permit orientation of the reflecting device to be virtually normal with respect to the incoming and reflected laser, infrared, or other such energy commonly used by such electronic distance measuring instruments.