Laser range sensor system optics adapter and method

Abstract

An adapter and method for through the lens (TTL) laser range sensor probes enables use of a TTL probe of a given exit pupil size to be used with a shared objective lens requiring a entrance pupil size, as entered from the laser range sensor, that is different from the TTL probe exit pupil size. Embodiments of the adapter include optics, such as a first lens and a resolving second lens that expand or contract the TTL laser radiation depending on whether the first lens is a diverging, a negative focal length lens, or a converging, positive focal length lens, and the second lens is converging or diverging, respectively, in a Galilean arrangement. Embodiments also provide a Keplerian arrangement, can function with non-collimated radiation, and can include mirrors to yield a more compact adapter. Additional embodiments include at least one adjustable lens element between the first and second lenses, the at least one adjustable lens element being connected to an actuator for movement along the optical path. The adapter can be arranged in a folded configuration in which mirrors are used to form a more compact adapter.