Abstract: Disclosed is an optical for directing radiant energy comprising a pyramidal prism having energy reflective side surfaces. These side surfaces diverge from an imaginary apex on a central axis equidistant from the side surfaces. Within the prism is a pyramidal reflector whose apex is also on the central axis. The reflector has reflective side surfaces faced toward the prism side surfaces, the reflector's side surfaces diverging from the central axis at a different angle than do the prism side surfaces. One embodiment of the optical device creates several relatively concentrated, polarized energy beams from a relatively unconcentrated, unpolarized energy beam.

Abstract: The recording of surface topology is obtained by first bringing the surface into contact with the imaging material-coated side of a dry process dispersion type recording film comprising a transparent substrate on which is coated a very thin, high optical density, opaque body of imaging material, preferably coated with a thin abrasion-resistant protective layer. Radiant energy is then momentarily directed to the imaging material through the transparent substrate. When the heat generated by the absorbed radiant energy is above a given threshold value at a particular location of the imaging material, the material deforms and disperses thereat to form connected or unconnected globules with spaces therebetween. Upon termination of the radiant energy, the dispersed material becomes frozen in place.

Abstract: The recording of surface topology is obtained by first bringing the surface into contact with the imaging material-coated side of a dry process dispersion type recording film comprising a transparent substrate on which is coated a very thin, high optical density, opaque body of imaging material, preferably coated with a thin abrasion-resistant protective layer. Radiant energy is then momentarily directed to the imaging material through the transparent substrate. When the heat generated by the absorbed radiant energy is above a given threshold value at a particular location of the imaging material, the material deforms and disperses thereat to form connected or unconnected globules with spaces therebetween. Upon termination of the radiant energy, the dispersed material becomes frozen in place.