Qinetiq Limited

Robin Dickson

Alan H Greenaway

Paul Harrison

An infra-red imaging system has two variable focal length optical components ( ) whose positions are fixed relative to one another. The system also comprises an image detector ( ). Control means ( ) is provided such that the focal length of one of the variable focal length optical components ( ) can be varied in relation to the focal length of the other variable focal length optical component ( ). The system can be used to produce an image of variable magnification while maintaining an in-focus image at the detector ( ). The control means ( ) may comprise a mechanical linkage, an electronic circuit, or a computer program. In an alternative embodiment the optical system is a beam expander. Controlling a focusing mirror can achieve a dither effect. Controlling a focusing mirror can also de-focus the image, giving a mean scene temperature evaluation.

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Malvern, United Kingdom

Robin Dickson