Teledyne Flir Commercial Systems, Inc.

William J Hall

Alan D Kathman

Todd E Rixman

Hans Ostling

Olof Holmgren

Bengt Jervmo

Erika Goransson

Bo Dahllof

Stefan Gustavsson

Leif Sommar

David Ovrutsky

Imager optical systems and methods are provided. In one example, an imaging device includes a window configured to transmit electromagnetic radiation associated with a scene. The imaging device further includes a lens system. The lens system includes a first lens element configured to receive the electromagnetic radiation from the window and transmit the electromagnetic radiation. An aperture stop is positioned between the window and a surface of the first lens element adjacent to the window. The lens system further includes a second lens element adjacent to the first lens element and configured to receive the electromagnetic radiation and direct the electromagnetic radiation to the detector array. The imaging device further includes a detector array including detectors. Each detector is configured to receive the electromagnetic radiation from the lens system and generate a thermal image based on the electromagnetic radiation. Related methods and systems are also provided.

Imager optical systems and methods

Systems and methods according to one or more embodiments are provided for annealing a chalcogenide lens at an elevated temperature to accelerate release of internal stress within the chalcogenide lens caused during a molding process that formed the chalcogenide lens. In particular, the annealing process includes gradually heating the chalcogenide lens to a dwell temperature, maintaining the chalcogenide lens at the dwell temperature for a predetermined period of time, and gradually cooling the chalcogenide lens from the dwell temperature. The annealing process stabilizes the shape, the effective focal length, and/or the modulation transfer function of the chalcogenide lens. Associated optical assemblies and infrared imaging devices are also described.

Lens systems and methods of manufacture

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Concord, NC, United States of America

William J Hall