WO1998046116A2 - Solid catadioptric omnidirectional optical system having central coverage means which is associated with a camera, projector, medical instrument, or similar article - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an omnidirectional wide angle optical system, which is associated with a camera, projector, medical instrument, surveillance system, flight control system, or similar article. The optical system consists of a strongly curved external refracting surface, a strongly curved internal primary reflector surface, a secondary reflector surface (in most embodiments), central wide angle refracting optics (in some embodiments), a modular or integral imaging and correcting lens system having aperture adjustement means, and mounting components. Optical surfaces associated with the formation of an omnidirectional virtual image are typically integrated into a single solid catadioptric optic in some embodiments, but the central wide angle refracting optics are separate optical elements in other embodiments.

Description

SOLID CATADIOPTRIC OMNIDIRECTIONAL OPTICAL SYSTEM HAVING

CENTRAL COVERAGE MEANS WHICH IS ASSOCIATED WITH A CAMERA,

PROJECTOR, MEDICAL INSTRUMENT, OR SIMILAR ARTICLE

To the Commissioner of Patents and Trademarks:

Your petitioner, Jeffrey R. Charles, a citizen of the United States and a resident of Pasadena, State of California, whose post-office address is 2454 East Washington Blvd., prays that letters patent may be granted him for the improvement in an Solid Catadioptric Omnidirectional Optical System Having Central Coverage Means Which Is Associated With A Camera, Medical Instrument, Projector, or Similar Article, set forth in the following specification.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application serial number 60/043,701, filed April 16, 1997. Further, this application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application serial number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997 for claims specifically referenced thereto. Still further, this application claims the benefit of all specified prior art which was originated by the applicant and published less than one year prior to the present application. Yet further, mis application claims the benefit of all prior art which was originated by the applicant and is verifiably documented by other means, including any applicable material which may be in his prior U.S. design patent D312,263. All claims not specifically supported in provisional application serial number 60/043,701 are so noted herein. This application primarily addresses drawing sheets originally numbered 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 in U.S. provisional application serial number 60/043,701, Filed April 16, 1997. Additionally, this application references all appropriate elements of U.S. provisional application serial number 60/043,701, filed April 16, 1997, including forms such as the verified statement claiming small entity status, information disclosures, the filing date; copies of prior art references, descriptions, drawings, remarks, and all other related elements for the purpose of covering any errors or omissions which may exist herein until such a time as he is requested to remove said references or material by an examiner or other duly authorized patent personnel for purposes such as formality, or until or unless he otherwise requests its removal. Further, if it is permitted, the applicant specifies that the entirety of the accompanying document entitled "Cover Letter, Introductory Remarks, Details Relating to Prior Art Information Disclosure" is considered part of the specification of this application for the purpose of covering any errors or omissions which may exist herein until such a time as he is requested to remove it by an examiner or other duly authorized personnel for the purposes such as formality, until or unless he otherwise requests its removal, or files a continuing application for material therein which may not end up in the patent as issued. Material in the accompanying document is intended to assist the examiner during examination of this application and includes substantial material which may otherwise be in a response to an examiner's action, where said action may be based on said examiner not being privy to information therein; however, it is not necessarily intended as permanent text for the patent, so it is provided as a separate, separately numbered document to facilitate the removal of some or all elements therein from the present specification in a way which is easy to communicate. The specification herein includes page numbers at the top of each page; however, said page numbers are not intended to be part of said specification text, so they are printed outside the specified one inch top margin. Some or all of this paragraph is not intended to be part of the final specification, except allowable elements herein which reference other material. Therefore, elements of this paragraph that are informal or otherwise not required in this specification shall presumably be removed prior to the issue of any resulting patent. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a wide angle omnidirectional optical system providing means for the simultaneous and seamless imaging of the entire great circle perpendicular to its optical axis, also encompassing a wide angular area on either side of the plane of said great circle. More particularly, the invention relates to an imaging system providing means for simultaneous and seamless imaging of the entire sphere around itself with the exception of a narrow conical area extending from the rear perimeter of said optical system to an axial point disposed a finite distance behind said optical system. The optical system includes reflecting and refracting optical surfaces, said optical surfaces providing means for the geometric conversion of three dimensional space surrounding the invention into a two dimensional annular image or vice versa; said optical system being associated with or incorporated into a film camera, electronic camera, electronic sensor, projector, medical instrument, surveillance system, robotic system, flight control system, simulator, or similar article. Images produced or projected by the invention are applicable to many fields, including still, time lapse, or full motion indoor and outdoor panoramic photography with various format cameras, sensors or other devices utilizing a focal surface; omniramic and omnidirectional recording of subjects for virtual reality applications with a film camera, electronic camera, or similar article; omniramic or omnidirectional projection of recorded, artificially generated, or hybrid images; videography; live broadcast including that via radio carrier waves, closed circuit systems, or the Internet; underwater imaging including imaging of shipwrecks at great depths; surveillance; minimally invasive omnidirectional observation and imaging of difficult to access subjects, as applicable to covert surveillance, dry or immersion bore scopes, endoscopy, laparascopic medical procedures, colonoscopy, intravascular procedures; conventional and immersion wide angle microscopy; the enabling and enhancement of conventional or micro assembly and inspection techniques; omnidirectional expansion or reception of lasers and other light sources for applications including illumination, optical communication, or optical motion sensing; robotic vision systems; vision and subject recognition for autonomous and other flight control or simulation systems, including virtual reality systems and missile systems; and for viewing, observing, measuring, imaging, recording, broadcasting, projecting, or simulating defined or diffuse subjects of large angular subtense, such as weather related events or the boundary of the lunar umbra as projected on the earth's atmosphere during a total solar eclipse. The optical system may be used in any orientation; however, it is typically used in a vertical orientation for panoramic applications. The omnidirectional imaging system typically consists of a curved external refracting surface; a strongly curved primary reflector surface, said primary reflecting surface having sufficient curvature to image a field of view greater than 180 degrees, thereby providing means to image a great circle surrounding it; a secondary reflector surface (in most embodiments); an imaging and correcting lens system; and mechanical mounting components. All optical surfaces are integrated into a single solid catadioptric optic for some applications, but the imaging and correcting lens system can be separate optical elements which are attached to said solid optic for other applications. Some embodiments utilize central wide angle refracting optics which are disposed in front of a hole in the secondary reflector coating, whereby said wide angle refracting optics provide means for imaging the area directly in front of the overall optical system, said imaged area being redundant in some embodiments and merged with the annular image produced by other optical surfaces in different embodiments. Where a focal surface is associated with the invention, said focal surface is in optical communication with the entire sphere around the optical system by means of refraction through the outer refracting surface, reflection from the primary reflector, reflection from the secondary reflector (in embodiments having one), and refraction by imaging and correcting optics. DESCRIPΗON OF THE PRIOR ART:

Assembly of a plurality of discrete images to form a fixed or moving panoramic image is common in the prior art. A less common image assembly method relates to coverage the entire sphere around a camera by means of assembling opposing images taken with a fisheye lens having a field of view greater than or equal to 180 degrees. One such type of prior art relates to the simultaneous use of two hyperhemispherical fisheye lenses to take still images, as embodied in Dan Slater's Spherecam. Another relates to the alternate use of a single hemispherical fisheye lens to alternately capture images in opposing directions, said fisheye lens being used in combination with an indexing bracket having means to index the 180 degree zone of the typically distorted entrance pupil of said fisheye lens in the same position when recording each of the opposing still images, as embodied in the IPLX system and related to U.S. patents 5,384,588 and 5,631,778. Motion picture systems include the multiple projector Circle Vision 360 theater at Disneyland and other systems having various degrees of coverage such as planetariums equipped with single projector Omnimax projectors.

The use of a single refractive optical system in hyperhemispherical and panoramic imaging is common in the prior art. Systems utilizing entirely refractive means include rotating panoramic cameras, fisheye lenses, and J.M. Slater's whole sky lens, as shown on page 582 of the October 1932 issue of American Photographer.

Reflectors are widely used in hyperhemispherical wide angle panoramic imaging and projection. Systems of this type are shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,631,778 (Panoramic fish-eye imaging system), 5,115,266 (Optical system for recording or projecting a panoramic image), 4,395,093 (Lens system for panoramic imagery), 4,012,126 (Optical system for 360 degree image transfer), 3,846,809 (Reflectors and mounts for panoramic projection), 3,822,936 (Optical system for panoramic projection), and D312,263 (Wide angle reflector attachment for a camera or similar article), and as embodied in disclosures of the Omnicamera at the www.cs.columbia.edu web site and the Cyclovision ParaCamera (introduced in 1998); the Be Here Portal SI panoramic lens prototype at the www.behere.com web site; and the Versacorp Omnirama Tl 1 axial strut omniramic reflector at the www.versacorp.com web site.

Optical reflector configurations include a simple reflector disposed directly in front of a camera lens, as embodied in the Spiratone Birds Eye Attachment (shown in the Spiratone 1976 Bicentennial Sale catalog, page 28), to a Cassegrain system having integral imaging optics as shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,012,126 (Optical system for 360 degree image transfer) and Figures 6 through 12 of U.S. Patent No. D312,263 (the applicant's patent for a Wide angle reflector attachment for a camera or similar article).

Support means for a camera or reflective optical element include a tripod or multiple vane spider; support rods on opposing sides of an optical system as in an embodiment of the Omnicamera at the www.cs.columbia.edu web site; a transparent cylinder,as embodied in the Spiratone Birds Eye Attachment; a transparent hollow semi-sphere of the type shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,395,093 (Lens system for panoramic imagery), 4,012,126 (Optical system for 360 degree image transfer), or an embodiment of the Omnicamera at the www.cs.columbia.edu web site; an axial strut of the type shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,115,266 (Optical system for recording or projecting a panoramic image), 3,846,809 (Reflectors and mounts for panoramic projection), and D312,263 (Wide angle reflector attachment for a camera or similar article), or pages 74 to 80 of the 1988 Riverside Telescope Makers Conference proceedings; and a solid optical substrate of the type used in the Peri-Apollar lens, and the Versacorp OmniLens at the www.versacorp.com web site. (Remarks: The Versacorp OmniLens is the present invention, and Versacorp is the applicant's business. OmniLens data was not uploaded to the www.versacorp.com web site until after the filing of provisional application serial No. 60/043,701, and said data does not show or describe the reflective nature of the invention.) Reflective surfaces consist of one or more external reflectors, as shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,115,266 (Optical system for recording or projecting a panoramic image), 3,846,809 (Reflectors and mounts for panoramic projection), and D312,263 (Wide angle reflector attachment for a camera or similar article); an internal optical surface having a reflective coating as shown in the JPL Radial Profilometry paper by Gregus and Matthys; and an internal surface which utilizes total internal reflection, as embodied in the Peri-Apollar lens.

Reflector substrates include spun, machined, polished and conventionally plated metal surfaces as embodied in the applicant's larger reflector invention on page 186 of the August 1986 issue of Sky and Telescope, page 68 of the April 1987 issue of Astronomy, and as shown and described on pages 74 through 80 of the proceedings of the 1988 Riverside Telescope Makers Conference; electrolytically replicated metal surfaces, including those having an outer coating of rhodium, as embodied in Melles Griot concave light multipliers on page 12-17 of the Optics Guide 5 catalog; glass having a reflective coating, as embodied in the Spiratone Birds Eye attachment; transparent refractive material having an exterior reflective coating, as shown in the applicant's U.S. Patent No. D312,263 (Wide angle reflector attachment for a camera or similar article. Remarks: This feature may only be obvious to the applicant.); and plastic having a reflective coating, as embodied in the applicant's smaller reflector system on page 186 of the August 1986 issue of Sky and Telescope.

Internal reflectors within minimally unobstructed transparent substrates are less common, but are embodied in the Peri-Apollar and the applicant's unpublished prior art.

Some of the prior art consists of or incorporates refracting optics to eliminate field curvature, as shown U.S. Patent No. 4,484,801 (Panoramic lens with elements to correct Petzval curvature), and field flattener systems for astronomical telescopes. Used alone, reflector systems can produce aberrations, with the most severe aberrations typically being off- axis. Some prior art may utilize refracting optics to reduce aberrations, as is presumably shown in U.S. Patent No. 4,012,126 (Optical system for 360 degree image transfer) and as claimed for the Be Here Portal SI by Be Here personnel in a bulletin board posting. (Remarks: This Email posting was subsequent to the filing date of the applicant's provisional applications, serial Nos. 60/043,701 and 60/055,876.) Other prior art utilizes a second reflective surface to control aberrations, as embodied in Cassegrain telescopes.

Use of a second reflector to control aberrations is applicable to the field of the present invention, and many of these principles can be most elegantly addressed through examination of prior art in the more mature field of Cassegrain telescopes and telephoto catadioptric camera lenses: In these systems, the relative figures of the primary and secondary mirrors can be manipulated in order to reduce imaged on-axis aberrations to a size smaller than the Airy disk. In addition, the figures of the primary and secondary mirrors can be manipulated to affect off- axis aberrations in a way which reduces the severity of aberrations or results in an aberration which is relatively practical to correct by means of relatively small auxiliary refracting optics which are located relatively near the focal plane. Cassegrain telescope systems include the Ritchey-Chretien, a telescope having a concave hyperboloidal primary mirror and a convex hyperboloidal secondary mirror. This combination results in off-axis astigmatism, an aberration relatively difficult to correct with refracting optics if they are located in close proximity to the focal plane. Another Cassegrain system is the Classical Cassegrain, a telescope having a concave paraboloidal primary mirror and a convex hyperboloidal secondary mirror. Coma is the predominant aberration with this system, and coma is relatively easy to correct or reduce with refracting optics, even if they are located relatively near the focal plane. Accordingly, refractive coma correctors are commonly available for commercial Cassegrain telescopes. Simpler published coma corrector designs include those by Brixner, Jones, and Jones-Bird. These simpler corrector systems are designed for Newtonian telescopes and they correct coma at the expense of introducing other aberrations; however, these are advantageous when their use will reduce the overall size of the combined imaged aberrations to an acceptable level. A more effective corrector for Classical Cassegrain and Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes is a four element system offered by Celestron, and more recently, by Meade Instruments. This optical system has substantial positive optical power which results in a smaller (faster) numerical focal ratio at the focal plane than that of the telescope alone. More sophisticated corrector lenses are utilized in compact Catadioptric telephoto camera lenses. These include the Nikon 500 mm telephoto mirror lens and the Vivitar 800 mm Solid Catadioptric telephoto lens for a 35 mm camera. In telephoto lenses, corrective lenses are occasionally used in combination with reflective optics in which imaging aberrations roughly equal and opposite of residual aberrations of said corrective lenses have been deliberately introduced.

In the case of a convex wide angle reflector, a virtual image typically exists on an imaginary curved surface typically being disposed behind the apex of said convex reflector. When a real image is produced by means of imaging the virtual image with a conventional lens system, aberrations present in said virtual image are typically repeated to the real image. In addition, the curvature of the virtual image results in curvature of the surface of best focus for the real image. Therefore, a wide angle reflector system must incorporate or otherwise utilize means for correcting field curvature and reducing or correcting aberrations in the virtual image if the real image is to be of high overall resolution and still facilitate a flat focal surface. Imaging lens systems having means to correct field curvature and at least some aberrations exist in the prior art. An imaging lens system of this type is shown in U.S. patent Nos. 4,484,801 (Panoramic lens with elements to correct Petzval curvature), 4,395,093 (Lens system for panoramic imagery), 4,012,126 (Optical system for 360 degree image transfer). Corrective optics not previously associated with wide angle imaging include a curved field lens system of the type used to sharply image the curved surface of a CRT, as embodied in older oscilloscope cameras. Use of such optics and optics based on similar principles is applicable to some embodiments of the present invention, where such use does not infringe on other claims.

Primary wide angle reflector figures include concave, as shown in U.S. Patent No. 5,631,778; convex spherical, as shown in the hubcap used in the applicant's larger reflector system on page 186 of the August 1986 issue of Sky and Telescope; and aspheric, as shown in the applicant's U.S. Patent D312,263 (Wide angle reflector attachment for a camera or similar article).

Secondary reflector figures include flat, as shown in U.S. Patents 5,115,266 (Optical system for recording or projecting a panoramic image), and D312,263 (Wide angle reflector attachment for a camera or similar article); concave, as shown in U.S. Patent 4,012,126 (Optical system for 360 degree image transfer); and convex, as in the applicant's pending U.S. patent application of 7 March, 1998.

All references cited in the applicant's patent D312,263 can be considered "Prior Art Cited By Applicant" in the present application.

In the field of the present invention, it is important to distinguish between two definitions which are often applied to the concept of an "omnidirectional" field of view or a 360 degree angle (or field) of view:

The most accurate definition relates to the actual angle of view of an optical system, where the specified angle of view is determined by the true angular coverage of the system relative to its optical axis; meaning that if an optical system is truly has 360 degree omnidirectional coverage, it must cover the entire sphere around itself. According to this definition, the present invention is capable of imaging the entire sphere in a contiguous annular or circular image, though some embodiments intended strictly for panoramic imaging with limited vertical coverage may have a conical exclusion zone toward the front or back.

The more inaccurate definition of omnidirectional relates to the fact that a great circle (such as the horizon) can be imaged by an optical system having a field of view greater than 180 degrees. Such a system is not truly omnidirectional in that it does not have a true 360 degree angle of view. This definition is often used in promotional material for optics which have an angle of view less than 360 degrees, such as in the case of the Peri-Apollar, where the definition is used to incorrectly specify that the optic covers 360 degrees, when in fact it may only cover an annular zone around the horizon plus or minus 30 degrees, for a 240 degree true field of view. According to this definition, all embodiments of the present invention (including those having a central obscuration or conical exclusion zone) would cover 360 degrees. In order to eliminate confusion, the term "Omniramic" (a term probably originated by the applicant) shall be used to describe this type of coverage.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION:

The present invention relates to an optical wide angle optical imaging system, which is made up of both refracting and and reflecting optical surfaces, and which is associated with a camera, projector, medical instrument, surveillance system, robotic system, flight control system, or similar article. More particularly, the present invention is an omnidirectional optical system which consists of an optical substrate having an outer refracting surface, a convex primary reflector surface, a convex secondary reflector surface (in most embodiments), central wide angle refracting optics (in some embodiments), an imaging and correcting lens system which is optically disposed between and in optical communication with the reflector and a focal surface in most embodiments, light baffles, aperture adjustment means, and mechanical mounting components. In embodiments having a secondary reflector surface, the entire space between said secondary surface and said primary reflector surface is typically occupied by the optical substrate. All of these optical surfaces are integrated into a single solid catadioptric optic in some embodiments, but the central wide angle refracting optics and/or the imaging and correcting lens system can be separate optical elements which are associated with the solid optic for other applications. Both the primary and secondary reflectors are typically internal surfaces of the solid optic, so the space between said reflector surfaces is occupied by optical material. This protects the reflective surfaces. One embodiment of the system not having a secondary reflector utilizes an axial strut to support said optical system in front of the lens of a camera or similar article.

Depending on the application, various features of the present invention may be interchanged between all embodiments without departing from the applicant's inventive concept. The degrees of freedom resorted to in different embodiments of the invention may include the materials and manufacturing techniques used to make the invention, the size of the invention, the eccentricity and degree of curvature of the outer refracting surface of the solid optic, the radial offset (compression, enlargement, or torroidal attribute) of the outer refractive surface figure; the relative size of the primary reflector surface, the degree of curvature and figure of the primary reflector surface, including the eccentricity of an aspheric figure, the radial offset (compression, enlargement, or torroidal attribute) of the primary reflector surface figure, the size and figure of a nonreflective transparent area in the center of the primary reflector surface (in embodiments having a secondary reflector); the size and figure of the secondary reflector surface (or size optical figure of a transparent central exit aperture in embodiments not having a secondary reflector, and whether or not said central aperture supports an axial strut); the spacing between optical surfaces; the existence, size, and figure of a nonreflective transparent area in the center of the secondary reflector the existence, size, and figure of front central refracting optics; the size and configuration of bored, attached, or applied light baffles; the existence, size, configuration, and figure of fixed or steerable periscopic optics to supplement the field of view or provide redundant imaging; the existence and configuration of imaging and correcting optics; whether or not some or all of the imaging optics are an integral part of the solid optical substrate; whether or not the final focal surface is in proximity to the optical system or the image is relayed to it by fiber optics or relay lenses; whether or not aperture adjustment means are provided, the means used for aperture adjustment; the existence and configuration of a side support vane, and wire and fixture routing it may provide; the position and shape of the focal surface relative to the invention, and any combination of these degrees of freedom. Radially compressed, enlarged, or torroidal optical figures are applicable to a variety of applications and optical systems, including those other than the present invention. The primary differences between embodiments for different applications include overall size; relative sizes of different optical surfaces; materials used; the presence or configuration of moisture and contaminant seals; optimization of the optical figure for immersion, where applicable; and the relative size and longitudinal position of the focal surface. SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The applicant has shown in U.S. provisional application serial number 60/043,701 an improved means for imaging a field of view which is omnidirectional. The present invention is applicable to both original imaging of a subject and for projection of photographic or artificially generated (including computer generated) images. The invention is also applicable to the reception or transmission of light or other radio energy for purposes other than imaging. In this description, the invention will typically be described in terms of an imaging system such as that used with or incorporated into a film or electronic camera.

Obviously, directions traveled by light or other energy will be reversed where the invention is used for projection, and, in the case of applications other than imaging, the subject energy or material will propagate according to the same laws of physics regardless of the direction and whether or not imaging applications are involved.

The invention may be used in many orientations; however, many of its uses relate to simultaneous imaging and projection of an entire 360 panorama which includes a great circle surrounding the invention, said great circle being perpendicular to the optical axis. This is typically accomplished in non medical applications by using the invention in a vertical orientation, in which case, a great circle perpendicular to the optical axis corresponds to a flat horizon. The widest embodiments of the present invention cover an entire sphere on a single focal surface. Three dimensional imaging embodiments cover an entire sphere, providing two or more images thereof on one or more focal surface, whereby elements of each imaged point are imaged from differing vantage points. For clarity, all descriptions of the present invention apply to its use in vertical orientation where its primary reflector surface is facing up.

Improvements of the present invention over the applicant's prior art relate primarily to improved durability; improved compatibility with high air speed environments including use on missiles or aircraft; miniaturization; increased off-axis resolution; increased vertical coverage; improved compatibility with low cost modes of production, improved durability, and compatibility with a wider array of sensors, cameras, projectors, and other instrumentation.

The primary differences between embodiments having and not having a conical exclusion zone in front of the primary reflector surface is the figure of the outer refracting surface of the solid optical substrate, the figure of said primary reflector surface, the size of any central transparent area in said primary reflector surface, and the size and proximity of a central obstruction such as a secondary reflector surface and its baffle, a sensor, or a separate article such as a camera. Some embodiments having little or no conical exclusion area utilize a radially enlarged primary reflector, said reflector being torroidal in the most extreme of the embodiments. Other embodiments utilize the outer refracting surface of the solid optical substrate, and others utilize a combination of said refracting surface and the primary reflector surface. For a given exclusion zone, radial enlargement of the primary reflector surface results in an angle of reflection which is closer to perpendicular with its optical surface, thereby allowing the angle of refraction of the outer refracting surface to be closer to perpendicular, thereby minimizing or eliminating lateral chromatic aberration from said refracting surface at the affected zones.

In order for the optical system to cover the full sphere around itself when the subject matter is at a finite distance, the annular image produced by said optical system must actually exceed 180 degrees of radial coverage, thereby exceeding 360 degrees of overall coverage. This facilitates the imaging of axial points which are disposed at a finite distance in front and behind the optical system, whereby the axial point in front of the primary reflector surface is imaged as a ring which defines the inner boundary of the annular image formed by said optical system and the axial point behind said primary reflector surface is imaged as a ring which defines the outer boundary of said annular image. This results in overlapping coverage for subjects at greater distances from the optical system. Where the optical system is utilized under water, an internal primary reflector surface having wider coverage is utilized in order to compensate for reduced refraction from the outer surface of the optical substrate.

The percentage of the image occupied by a central obscuration is also important, since a larger imaged obscuration will result in reduced radial image scale for the rest of the image on a given format. Some embodiments of the optical system reduce the imaged size of any central obscuration by utilizing a radially compressed figure which results in a pointed apex on the reflector surface having the least optical distance from a focal surface. Where the pointed apex is relatively pronounced, the central obscuration is not imaged at all, resulting in a circular image rather than an annular one, and an axial point a finite distance in front of the primary reflector surface is imaged as a point in the center of the circular image. Where the optical system utilizes front central imaging optics in addition to an optical configuration providing means for central coverage in an annular image, the image from said central refracting optics provides redundant coverage of the central area in a circular image which is located within the inner boundary of said annular image.

The invention will be more clearly understood from consideration of the following description in connection with accompanying drawings that form a part of this specification.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

This section will be supplied with formal drawings. The informal drawings in this application include enough description to facilitate identification. The following description includes blank spaces which will be applicable to many reference numbers which will be in subsequent formal drawings. DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The present invention is an improved means for imaging or projecting a field of view which is omnidirectional. The present invention achieves the result of an omnidirectional virtual image having a distribution similar to a polar map projection by means of a solid optical substrate having outer refractive surface , said surface typically being convex ; an internal convex reflector surface ; and in some embodiments, an internal secondary reflector surface , said surface typically being convex; and refraction through said solid optical substrate at the axial surface closest to a focal surface ; whereby said virtual image is visible from an axial vantage point outside the said optical substrate at said axial surface closest to a focal surface.

Correcting optics are utilized on most embodiments, said correcting lenses typically correcting for curvature of the virtual image ; and aberrations including astigmatism which results from low angle reflections from the primary reflector surface and refraction through the front and rear extremes of the outer surface of the solid optical substrate ; and lateral chromatic aberration resulting from refraction through the front and rear zones of the outer surface of the solid optical substrate.

Imaging optics are utilized between the exit aperture of the solid optical substrate and a focal surface in embodiments providing a real image of the subject at a focal surface , by imaging said virtual image at said focal surface, said virtual image which is typically beyond the surface of the apex of the secondary reflector surface, said virtual image being a reflection of the virtual image behind the apex of the primary reflector surface; said virtual image behind the apex of said primary reflector surface being imaged directly by said imaging optics in embodiments not having a secondary reflector surface. Correcting optics in most embodiments are typically integrated with imaging optics in embodiments of the invention which provide a real image at a focal surface. In some embodiments, the secondary reflector surface is utilized to control off-axis aberrations which include astigmatism, whereby said figure is hyperbolic in some embodiments, said hyperbolic figure being effective in the control of astigmatism with some combinations of a primary reflector surface and outer refracting surface, provided the other reflective surface and the outer refracting surface are configured to compensate for the radial distribution of the image which would otherwise result from said secondary reflector surface; said means for control of astigmatism being analogous to the control of off-axis aberrations in a Cassegrain telescope, except that the light cone for any given imaged point utilizes a relatively small part of each reflector in the present invention rather than utilizing almost the entire reflector surface as in said Cassegrain telescope; said correcting means resulting in coma in some cases, said coma being corrected with a commercial coma corrector or a similar optical system; refracting optics and the outer refracting surface of the substrate are applicable to correction of aberrations in some embodiments, particularly those not having secondary reflector surface, said refracting optics having characteristics similar to those in a fisheye lens, sans its front element, said characteristics most resembling elements behind the front element of a fisheye lens having a shallow curvature on the front optical surface of said front element; in most embodiments, said outer refracting surface reduces astigmatism at a given angle of view by means of extending the field of view of said primary reflector surface, thereby causing the angle of reflection at outer zones of said primary reflector to be at a greater angle from its surface; appropriate utilization of said outer refracting surface of said solid substrate in the control of astigmatism can also result in a reduction in distortion of the entrance pupil of the overall optical system, particularly in embodiments covering less than a full sphere, where said refracting surface or a separate refracting element either reduces or increases the coverage of said primary reflector, with a decrease in coverage being applicable to reducing the distance between the 180 degree zone of entrance pupils for systems utilizing two opposing optical systems. Angular distribution of the image is influenced by all of the optical surfaces, with the figure of the primary reflector surface and outer refracting surface having the greatest influence; most of the preferred embodiments produce an image having a constant radial image scale, said embodiments typically utilizing a prolate aspheric primary reflector surface;

The present invention utilizes the elegance of a solid optical substrate for optical surfaces utilized in the formation of a virtual image of subject matter surrounding it, said substrate also providing alignment and protection of the reflector surfaces.

The present invention provides a wide field of view than external reflector systems or the Peri-Apollar by means of utilizing its outer surface of its optical substrate to extend the field of view of an inner zone its primary reflector surface toward the front of the invention , and extend the field of view of an outer zone of its primary reflector surface by means of refraction , thereby enabling the invention to cover the entire sphere around itself.

The solid optical substrate provides compactness and improved durability over external reflector systems. Some embodiments provide redundant imaging by means of a refracting optical surface or system which is in optical communication with a focal surface by means of a central transparent area in the center of the secondary reflector surface. The optical system further includes baffles to eliminate stray light and accurately indicate the limits of coverage in the image; a grip surface to facilitate handling of the optical system without touching its optical surfaces; and means for attachment of accessories including one for the occultation of an excessively bright light source such as the sun to reduce or eliminate flare . The optical system is compatible with a wide array of cameras and other instruments by means of modular optical cells having compatibility with a plurality of common adapters and interfaces for articles having a focal surface, one of said adapters having threads with a 42 mm diameter and a 0.75 mm pitch. The solid optical substrate is compatible with a wide array of fabrication modes and use in a wide range of applications and environments. In some embodiments, the area directly behind the optical system is redundantly covered by means of one or more auxiliary off-axis optical systems facing in the opposite direction of the primary reflector surface, said auxiliary optical system having relay optics and reflective means to produce a final image at the focal plane, said image being on a common focal plane with the annular image, disposed in the center of or immediately beside said annular image; said auxiliary optical system utilizes a steerable housing to facilitate redundant imaging of selected off-axis subject areas at various image scales.

A basic embodiment of the present invention utilizes a prolate aspheric reflector surface . This results in exclusion of a conical area in front of the primary reflector surface , which is caused by obscuration by a secondary reflector surface , a camera , or a transparent zone in the primary reflector.

A front exclusion zone is completely eliminated by means of a torroidal primary reflector and a small convex secondary reflector having a diameter less than the diameter of the apex of the torroid of said primary reflector. Elimination of the front conical exclusion zone is accomplished by redundantly imaging the part of the subject a finite distance directly in front of the primary reflector at the radial zone of the annular image circle which is closest to the center by means of a primary reflector having a torroidal figure combined with a secondary reflector assembly having a diameter smaller than the torroidal apex of said primary reflector. The remainder of the subject is progressively imaged toward the outer edge of the annular image . Optical surfaces used to accomplish this consist of a strongly curved prolate aspheric primary reflector , a moderately convex secondary mirror , and rear imaging optics . The secondary reflector surface is in optical communication with both the primary reflector surface and the imaging lens system which is located behind a central transparent zone in said primary reflector surface. A miniature version of the invention is applicable to articles such as surgical instruments, dental instruments, bore sights or scopes, and other articles; the present invention being very useful for such applications, particularly in the realm of laparascopic surgery, due to its omnidirectional field of view.

Images having various radial distribution characteristics are produced according to the profile of the external surface of the optic. One covers all the way to an axial point a finite distance in front of the primary reflector by refracting light around the secondary reflector surface. Another does not cover the central area but results in little or no refraction in its central zones, thereby minimizing or eliminating chromatic aberration, and particularly lateral chromatic aberration at said zones; where required, central coverage is provided by a central refracting optical system which is in optical communication with a focal surface or observational vantage point by means of a central transparent area in the center of the secondary reflector surface. Where a torroidal primary reflector surface is utilized, the inner zones of said primary reflector surface can be in optical communication with an axial point a finite distance in front of its surface with minimal or no refraction in the applicable zones of the outer refractive surface, where said surface is normal to the light path, thereby reducing or eliminating lateral chromatic aberration at the applicable zones and facilitating central coverage even when the optical system is used under water or in other immersion environments. Embodiments not having a secondary reflector surface can utilize a central refracting optical system which is in optical communication with a focal surface or observational vantage point by means of a central transparent area in the center of the reflector surface to provide central coverage, said coverage being particularly useful in medical and immersion applications.

The optical system is applicable to the omnidirectional expansion of lasers and other light sources for communications, switching, opto isolation, illumination, holographic imaging and projection, and other applications. The diameter of a central transparent zone in the primary reflector surface can be increased or its surface can have negative optical power, facilitating unobstructed optical communication between a relatively large secondary reflector surface and an imaging lens system which is closer to the focal plane, thereby facilitating a faster numerical f/ratio for said imaging lens system; where the figure of the primary reflector surface is radially enlarged, said larger central transparent area will not result in any reduction of coverage.

In most two reflector (Cassegrain) embodiments, the optical substrate occupies the entire area between the primary and secondary reflector surfaces. A two reflector system results in an unreversed image and allow the camera and photographer to be behind the primary reflector, where exclusion from the image is easier in embodiments not having full sphere coverage. Reflective coatings are typically used on both reflector surfaces. These coatings can be aluminum for many applications, but rhodium is applicable to certain environments and god or other coatings are optimal for selected wavelengths. The optical system is also applicable to a two reflector (Cassegrain) wide angle reflector system in which only one of the reflector surfaces is internal.

The invention is applicable to a self-contained electronic or film imaging system, said self contained system being very advantageous in small embodiments having full sphere coverage, since the perimeter of a full sphere system having a contiguous image must be larger than the width of a camera or similar article which is used with it in order to prevent obscuration of the subject by said camera.

The optical system may utilize a rotating camera adapter for rotation of the unit to place the aperture control in a convenient position, said adapter consisting of lock rings where focus adjustment is required in an inexpensive system; said camera adapter incorporating a slot around its circumference which facilitates storage and transportation in a case without contact to any optical surfaces; said camera adapter accepting filters and auxiliary imaging optics, whereby different optics are in interchangeable cells which will allow one size and configuration of reflector unit to be adapted to a wide variety of camera formats, projectors, and other instruments, whereby, a short tube tube of the proper length typically houses a strong positive lens, a slightly long tube houses a weaker positive lens, and an even longer tube would house no lens, and a yet longer tube would house a negative lens, said tubes being used singly or in combination with the solid optical system to adapt same reflector unit to different format cameras while not necessarily requiring recalibration of focus.

A self-contained embodiment having an imaging lens will fit directly on a camera body An embodiment having a weak positive close up lens system may be used in front of a camera having a fixed or interchangeable with its lens.

The optical system is applicable to omnidirectional image projection in virtual reality headsets, booths, suites, theaters, work stations, simulators, or other environments.

Most embodiments utilize a smooth optical surface for the outer refracting surface, though a Fresnel surface is applicable to some specialized applications, said Fresnel surface being turned, molded, or produced by other means; where produced by turning, said Fresnel surface may be turned on a numerically (computer) controlled machine, said machining having a numerically controlled rotating tool for turning said Fresnel surface, whereby a flat face on said rotating tool is rotated according to the desired angle of a given Fresnel zone, said Fresnel surface being turned concentrically or spirally, said zones on Fresnel surface having a fat profile or one which is slightly curved to produce refraction according to all or part of the radial angle of view covered by the surface of said Fresnel zone.

Grinding and polishing, turning, molding, or other means are applicable to fabrication of the solid optical substrate. Where precision molded plastic optics are utilized, the solid optical substrate of some embodiments can be molded with a simple two piece mold or die; other embodiments can be molded with more complex dies or in multiple pieces, said multiple pieces either being separated diagonally, on a plane perpendicular to the optical axis, or on a plane or planes radial to the optical axis; additionally, curved joints can be utilized rather than flat ones, whereby said joints are more easily concealed, said curved joints being symmetrical or asymmetrical with the optical axis; where the substrate is made in three sections separated more or less radial to the optical axis, said joints can be spiral.

The concept of widening the field of view of a given reflector by means of refraction through an optical substrate is also applicable to the use of refracting elements which are separate from the reflector, as in the claimed embodiment where a reflector of moderate coverage is surrounded by an annular (or semi-torroidal by some definitions) optical element having a radial cross section similar to that of the front element of a fisheye lens; in some embodiments, the apex of said reflector is positioned near the longitudinal center of said annular optic.

An outer refracting surface or element is applicable to extending the field of view of an existing or custom hyperhemispherical fisheye lens, where the internal surface of the substrate has a hyperhemispherical void rather than a reflecting surface and said fisheye lens is positioned inside, with its front element just in front of the rear limit of said hyperhemispherical curve.

— Please see accompanying document for more material to support the claims herein for the optics, projection surfaces, and interfaces which comprise the present invention

This disclosure is considered as illustrative of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction, operation, and appearance as shown and described, and accordingly all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to without thereby departing from the basic principles of the invention. It will be further understood that the invention is susceptible of embodiment in many various forms, some of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and that structural details and modes of fabrication herein set forth may be varied and interchanged to suit particular purposes and still remain within the applicant's inventive concept.

Claims

What is claimed is: 1. An optical system comprising:

* a solid optical substrate having a convex outer refracting surface, said surface covering most of the front and side of said substrate,

* said substrate having an internal convex primary reflector surface of radial symmetry,

* said primary reflector surface being in optical communication with a great circle surrounding it, the plane of said great circle being perpendicular to the optical axis of said optical system, said optical communication being through the outer refractive surface of said substrate,

* said primary reflector surface having sufficient curvature to be in optical communication with a substantial area in front of and behind the plane of said great circle,

* said primary reflector surface having an optically transparent central zone,

* said substrate also having an internal secondary reflector surface of radial symmetry,

* said secondary reflector surface being coaxially disposed in front of said primary reflector surface,

* said secondary reflector surface having its reflective surface facing said primary reflector surface,

* said secondary reflector surface being in optical communication with said great circle surrounding said primary reflector surface and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle by means of reflection from said pnmary reflector surface and refraction through the outer surface of said substrate,

* whereby said optical system produces a virtual image of said great circle and said area above and below its plane, said virtual image being annular,

* said virtual image being visible from a vantage point behind said optically transparent central zone of said pnmary reflector surface due to said vantage point being m optical communication with said great circle and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle by means of reflection from said secondary reflector surface and said primary reflector surface and refraction through the outer surface of said substrate,

* means for mounting said substrate,

* said means for mounting providing a protective shield behind the peπmeter of said substrate,

* said means for mounting also having provision for handling the optical system without touching its optical surfaces,

* said means for mounting providing stable support and alignment of said substrate without causing deformation thereof,

* said means for mounting providing for attachment of said optical system to an article having a focal surface,

* said mounting means facilitating use of said optical system in any oπentation,

* said optical system being associated with a refracting lens system, said refracting lens system being disposed coaxial to said optical system, both being associated with the formation of a real image of said virtual image at said focal surface, * whereby said optical system when combined with said article having a focal surface facilitate the geometric conversion of said great circle and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle into a real annular image at the focal surface of said article and vice versa,

2. apparatus according to claim 1 where the outer refracting surface of said substrate comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution being nearly perpendicular to the light path at a zone just outside the perimeter of the secondary reflector surface and its baffle, whereby lateral chromatic aberration at said zone is negligible, whereby lateral chromatic aberration in the virtual image from the overall system will increase as a function of off-axis distance, thereby facilitating correction of lateral chromatic aberration by means of relatively conventional correcting optics or by separating a real image into separate colors and individually scaling each color separation,

3. apparatus according to claim 1 in which the outer refracting surface of said substrate comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution having an angle of incidence to the light path at a zone just outside the perimeter of the secondary reflector surface and its baffle, whereby a zone in front of said optical system that would otherwise be obscured by said secondary reflector surface and its baffle is imaged by means of being in optical communication with said primary reflector surface by refraction through said zone in said substrate, thereby extending the angle of view toward the front of the invention,

4. apparatus according to claim 1 in which the outer refracting surface of said substrate comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution having a substantial angle of incidence to the light path at a zone just outside the perimeter of the secondary reflector surface and its baffle, whereby an axial point disposed a finite distance in front of said optical system is imaged by means of being in optical communication with said primary reflector surface by refraction through said zone in said substrate, thereby extending the angle of view all the way around the front of the invention,

5 apparatus according to claim 1 in which the outer refracting surface of said substrate compπses a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution extending to a longitudinal position behind that of the penmeter of said pπmary reflector surface, said surface of revolution having an angle of incidence to the light path at a zone just outside and behind the penmeter of said pπmary reflector surface, whereby a zone behind of said optical system that would otherwise be beyond the limit of coverage for said primary reflector surface is imaged by means of being in optical communication with said pπmary reflector surface by refraction through said zone in said substrate, thereby extending the angle of view toward the rear of the invention,

6 apparatus according to claim 1 in which the outer refracting surface of said substrate compπses a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution extending to a longitudinal position behind that of the penmeter of said pπmary reflector surface, said surface of revolution having an angle of incidence to the light path at a zone just outside and behind the penmeter of said pπmary reflector surface, whereby an axial point a finite distance behind said optical system is imaged by means of being in optical communication with said pπmary reflector surface by refraction through said zone in said substrate, thereby extending the angle of view all the way around the rear of the invention,

7 apparatus according to claim 4 in which the outer refracting surface of said substrate compπses a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution extending to a longitudinal position behind that of the penmeter of said pπmary reflector surface, said surface of revolution having a substantial angle of incidence to the light path at a zone just outside and behind the penmeter of said pπmary reflector surface, whereby an axial point a finite distance behind said optical system is imaged by means of being m optical communication with said pπmary reflector surface by refraction through said zone in said substrate, resulting in coverage of the entire sphere around said optical system,

8. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said outer refracting surface is comprised of a plurality of scallops which are concave as seen from the front but convex as seen from the side, refraction through said scallops causing the area occupied by each scallop to have more than twice the included angle as the angular circumference of the optical surface it occupies; for example, as seen from the front, each scallop of a twelve scallop optical system would occupy 30 degrees of the circumference as seen from the front; therefore, each of said scallops would provide more than 60 degrees of coverage; said optical system providing a sectored virtual image, said image having the same number of sectors as said refracting surface has scallops, each of said scallops covering a circumferential angle of view of more than twice the circumferential angle occupied by each sector, whereby said virtual image covers each point in said great circle and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle at least twice, thereby providing fully redundant coverage thereof; said twice imaged points having circumferentially separated vantage points, said points being circumferentially separated in said virtual image, said redundant coverage providing three dimensional information for the entire area of coverage; said optical system also being applicable to the projection of sectored images whereby said redundant images overlap and include three dimensional information; the concepts, principles,and geometry of said optical system also being applicable for the basis of image processing techniques, algorithms, and software which are associated with viewing, analyzing, and otherwise utilizing images produced and reproduced by said optical system, (not supported by the applicant's provisional applications)

9. apparatus according to claim 1 in which the figure of said outer refracting surface is optimized to minimize flare and ghost images,

10. apparatus according to claim 1 in which the outer refracting surface of said substrate has anti reflection coatings,

11. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said primary reflector surface and said secondary reflector surface have reflective coatings which facilitate efficient reflection at a wide range of incident angles, including angles not subject to total internal reflection,

12. apparatus according to claim 1 in which the perimeter of said optical system provides means for accurately indicating the limits of the image it produces,

13. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said primary reflector surface comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution having a prolate aspheric figure,

14. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said primary reflector surface comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution having a prolate aspheric figure, whereby the image produced by the overall optical system has a constant radial image scale,

15. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said primary reflector surface comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution being radially compressed inward toward the optical axis, whereby the surface said primary reflector surface is farther from being perpendicular with the optical axis at a zone which immediately surrounds said transparent central zone, whereby said vantage point behind said transparent central zone of said primary reflector surface is in optical communication with a smaller angular area in front of said great circle, thereby increasing the size of a central angular exclusion zone in front of said primary reflector surface while minimizing the physical size of said obscured area imaged at said focal surface, thereby increasing radial proportions of the imaged area immediately surrounding the plane of said great circle, thereby resulting in a larger radial image scale for said area covered on a given image format, owing to the reduced relative size of an imaged central obscuration area,

16. apparatus according to claim 2 in which said primary reflector surface comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution having a prolate aspheric figure, said prolate aspheric figure also being radially enlarged outward from the optical axis, whereby the surface said primary reflector surface is closer to perpendicular with the optical axis at a zone which immediately suπounds said transparent central zone, whereby said vantage point behind said transparent central zone of said primary reflector surface is in optical communication with a greater angular area in front of said great circle, thereby reducing the size of the central angular exclusion zone in front of said primary reflector surface, said radially enlarged primary reflector surface also permitting said transparent central zone to be enlarged without affecting the field of view, whereby said enlarged transparent zone permits the use of large aperture refracting and coπecting optics such as those associated with a camera or a projector, said secondary reflector surface being relatively small in order to minimize obscuration of subject matter in front of said primary reflector surface, whereby said combination of attributes typically result in a reduced conical obscuration area,

17. apparatus according to claim 2 in which said primary reflector surface comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution having a prolate aspheric figure, said prolate aspheric figure also being toπoidal as a result of being radially enlarged outward from the optical axis, whereby said primary reflector surface curves backward in the zone immediately suπounding said transparent central zone, whereby the radial zone of said primary reflector surface by which the inner zone of said secondary reflector surface is in optical communication with an axial point disposed at a finite distance in front of said optical system by means of reflection from said zone of said primary reflector surface has a larger diameter than said secondary reflector surface and its baffle, whereby said vantage point behind said transparent central zone of said primary reflector surface is in optical communication with the entire area in front of said great circle up to said axial point disposed at a finite distance in front of said primary reflector surface, thereby eliminating the central angular exclusion zone in front of said primary reflector surface when said optical system is used in air or immersed in a liquid media, the only excluded area being confined to a naπow conical area extending from the perimeter of said secondary reflector surface with its associated mounting and shielding to said axial point disposed a finite distance in front of said primary reflector surface, said toπoidal primary reflector surface also permitting said transparent central zone in said primary reflector surface to be enlarged without affecting the field of view, said enlarged transparent zone permitting the use of large aperture refracting optics such as those associated with a camera or projector,

18. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said primary reflector surface is scalloped, resulting in a plurality of identical convex lobes disposed evenly around its circumference, each lobe having more than twice the included angle as the angular circumference of the reflector surface it occupies; for example, as seen from the front, each lobe of a twelve lobe reflector surface would occupy 30 degrees of the circumference; therefore, each of said lobes would have more than 60 degrees of curvature as seen from the front; said primary reflector surface providing a sectored virtual image, said image having the same number of sectors as said primary reflector surface has lobes, each of said sectors covering a circumferential angle of view of more than twice the circumferential angle occupied by each sector, whereby said virtual image covers each point in said great circle and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle at least twice, thereby providing fully redundant coverage thereof; said twice imaged points having circumferentially separated vantage points, said points being circumferentially separated in said virtual image, said redundant coverage providing three dimensional information for the entire area of coverage; said optical system also being applicable to the projection of sectored images whereby said redundant images overlap and include three dimensional information; the concepts, principles,and geometry of said optical system also being applicable for the basis of image processing techniques, algorithms, and software which are associated with viewing, analyzing, and otherwise utilizing images produced and reproduced by said optical system, as supported by U.S. provisional application serial number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997;

19 apparatus according to claim 18 in which said scalloped pnmary reflector surface is compπsed of a plurality of scallops which are concave as seen from the front but convex as seen from the side rather than having convex lobes, said scallops having the same degree of coverage as said convex lobes,

20 apparatus according to claim 1 in which the secondary reflector surface is convex, further compπsmg an annular reflector surface which is coaxial with said secondary reflector surface, said annular reflector surface having sufficient curvature to cover the same area in front and behind said great circle as said pnmary reflector surface, including the effects of said outer refracting surface on both reflector surfaces, said annular reflector surface having a longitudinal position which places its virtual image in close longitudinal proximity to that of said virtual image from said pnmary reflector surface as reflected in said secondary reflector surface, said virtual image from said annular reflector surface being visible from a vantage point behind said optically transparent central zone of said pπmary reflector surface due to said vantage point being m optical communication with said great circle and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle by means of reflection from said annular reflector surface, said annular reflector surface providing redundant coverage, said redundant coverage providing three dimensional information for the entire area of coverage, as supported by U S provisional application senal number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997,

21 apparatus according to claim 18 in which said secondary reflector surface is convex, further compnsing an annular reflector surface which is coaxial with said secondary reflector surface, said annular reflector surface having sufficient curvature to cover the same area in front and behind said great circle as said pπmary reflector surface, including the effects of said outer refracting surface on both reflector surfaces, said annular reflector surface having a longitudinal position which places its virtual image m close longitudinal proximity to that of said virtual lmage from said pnmary reflector surface as reflected m said secondary reflector surface, said virtual image from said annular reflector surface being visible from a vantage point behind said optically transparent central zone of said pπmary reflector surface due to said vantage pomt being m optical communication with said great circle and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle by means of reflection from said annular reflector surface, said annular reflector surface providmg redundant coverage, said redundant coverage providing three dimensional information in all axes of the entire area of coverage, (not supported in provisional applications)

22 apparatus according to claim 18 m which an annular reflector surface which is coaxial with said secondary reflector surface is scalloped, thereby allowing said optical system to provide redundant sectored images said redundant coverage providing three dimensional information in all axes of the entire area of coverage, (not supported m provisional applications)

23 apparatus according to claim 1 m which said secondary reflector surface is surrounded by a baffle, said baffle preventing stray light from entering said optical system around the penmeter of said secondary reflector surface, said baffle also providmg accurate indication of the inside limit of the annular image produced by said optical system, said baffle being provided by an attached part, an opaque coating applied to said substrate, a blackened annular depression m said substrate suπounding said secondary reflector surface, a blackened annular depression in said substrate surrounding said central transparent area said pnmary reflector surface, or other means,

24 apparatus according to claim 1 m which said secondary reflector surface is a convex surface of revolution,

25. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said secondary reflector surface is a convex surface of revolution having a figure which is radially compressed inward toward the optical axis in order to facilitate an unchanged field of view while not imaging said central transparent area in center of said primary reflector surface, thereby allowing the radial image scale of the covered area to be increased owing to the virtual absence of imaged central obscuration area, said convex secondary reflector surface also providing for the coπection of off-axis aberrations,

26. apparatus according to claim 1 in which the figure of said secondary reflector surface is an aspheric surface of revolution providing means for the substantial correction of off-axis astigmatism which results from off-axis reflections off of said primary reflector surface and refraction through said outer surface of said substrate, said apparatus further comprising refracting optics which are coaxial with said primary reflector surface and behind said transparent central zone of said primary reflector surface, said refracting optics providing means for coπection of residual abeπations from said primary reflector surface and said secondary reflector surface, (not supported in provisional applications)

27. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said secondary reflector surface is on a separate optical component, said secondary reflector and the surface of said substrate being between said secondary reflector and said primary reflector surface providing means for coπection of off-axis abeπations,

28. apparatus according to claim 27, in which additional refracting optical components are used between said secondary reflector and said substrate of said optical system,

29. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said secondary reflector is a separate optical component, said secondary reflector having a transparent substrate, having its reflective surface on the side opposite said primary reflector surface, the side of said substrate toward said primary reflector surface also having a surface of revolution and acting as a refracting surface, said refracting surface surface of said secondary combined with the refracting surface of said substrate of said optical system which is between said secondary reflector and said primary reflector surface providing means for the substantial coπection of off-axis astigmatism and lateral chromatic abeπation, said optical system further comprising refracting optics which are coaxial with said primary reflector surface and in longitudinal proximity to said transparent central zone of said primary reflector surface, said refracting optics coπecting for residual abeπations from other optical surfaces, (not fully supported in provisional applications)

30. apparatus according to claim 29, in which additional refracting optical components are used between said secondary reflector and said substrate of said optical system,

31. apparatus according to claim 2 in which said secondary reflector surface has an optically transparent central zone, said central zone having a concave figure as seen from the front, said central zone refracting light, whereby the angle of view obscured by said secondary reflector surface and its baffle is covered by said transparent central zone, said coverage being inside the annular image formed by the rest of said optical system,

32. apparatus according to claim 7 in which said secondary reflector surface has an optically transparent central zone, said central zone having a concave figure as seen from the front, said concave central zone refracting light, whereby a substantial angle of view is covered by said transparent central zone, said coverage being inside the annular image formed by the rest of said optical system, said coverage also being redundant,

33. apparatus according to claim 1, in which said secondary reflector surface has an optically transparent central zone, said optical system also having an refracting lens system disposed axially in front of said optically transparent central zone in said secondary reflector surface, whereby the angle of view obscured by said secondary reflector surface and its baffle is covered by said refracting lens system and any refraction through an optimized transparent central zone in said secondary reflector surface, said coverage being inside the annular image formed by the rest of said optical system, said system also incorporating a neutral density filtration to equalize the brightness of images from said central refracting system and the rest of the optical system,

34. apparatus according to claim 33 in which said wide angle refracting lens is attached to center of said solid optic in a way that allows the front outer surface of the entire optical system to be uninterrupted at the boundary between both optical elements, said boundary being sealed against moisture and other contamination,

35. apparatus according to claim 33 in which a cell is attached to the front center of said solid optical substrate, said cell having mounting means for said refracting lens system which provides calibrated longitudinal positioning means for one or more elements of said central wide angle refracting lens system in order to adjust the radial field of view of said lens system to compensate for parallax in the radial zone of transition between the subject area covered by said refracting lens system and the annular image produced by said solid optical system, said adjustment providing parallax compensation at said transition zone for close subject distances,

36. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said secondary reflector surface has an optically transparent central zone, said optical system also having a cell attached to the front center of said solid optical substrate, said cell having mounting means for interchangeable optical systems which can be utilized to image or project the central part of the subject at varying image scales, said interchangeable optical systems also incorporating optional means to be positioned independent of said solid optic in order to image various parts of the subject which are not necessarily at the center, said mounting means providing calibrated longitudinal positioning means for one or more elements of said central interchangeable lens system in order to adjust the focus or the radial field of view of said lens system.

37. apparatus according to claim 11 in which said central transparent zone in said primary reflector surface consists of a hole in the reflective coating, the surface of said substrate being radially symmetrical within said hole in said reflective coating,

38. apparatus according to claim 1 in which refracting surfaces of said substrate are used in the control of abeπations,

39. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said ttansparent area in center of said primary reflector surface is curved to act as a negative refracting surface in order to increase the apparent optical distance between said secondary mirror surface and said rear imaging lens system, thereby allowing an unobstructed view of a larger secondary minor surface from said rear imaging optics without increasing the diameter of said ttansparent area in center of said primary reflector surface, said optical system also having a substantially larger secondary reflector surface than what is shown on any of the drawing figures, said secondary surface being either curved or flat, depending on its size and the application,

40. apparatus according to claim 1, in which said central transparent area in said primary reflector surface comprises a refracting surface of negative optical power, whereby said refracting surface provide for said vantage point behind said optically transparent central zone of said primary reflector surface to be moved to a substantial axial distance behind said transparent central zone, thereby allowing unobstructed optical communication between said moved vantage point and the entirety of said secondary reflector surface while allowing said transparent centtal zone of said primary reflector surface to have a relatively small diameter,

41. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said central transparent area in said primary reflector surface protrudes behind said primary reflector surface.

42. apparatus according to claim 41 in which said ttansparent extension of said solid optic which protrudes back from center of said primary reflector surface includes a curved rear refracting surface capable of causing all rays behind the overall optical system to be parallel, enabling said optical system to be used in front of a lens for a camera or other article which is focused at or closer than infinity,

43. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said substrate provides support and alignment of said outer refracting surface, primary reflector surface, and secondary reflector surface,

44. apparatus according to claim 7 in which said primary reflector surface alone has a field of view of more than 265 degrees when viewed from a point approximately equal to its own diameter above its apex,

45. apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a durable rim behind the perimeter of said primary reflector surface, said rim having a slightly larger diameter than said reflector surface and, said rim providing protection for said primary reflector surface and serving as a grip surface to permit handling said optical system without soiling the optical surface, said rim also being connected to the mounting means for said article having a focal surface, said means for mounting and said rim also having provision for the attachment of accessories such as a clear storage and composition tube, a solar occulting object, a level indicator, and data display devices, said level indicator and display devices being directly visible and imaged at said focal surface of said article,

46. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said substrate is transparent plastic, said substrate also extending behind the perimeter of all reflecting and refracting optical surfaces and providing a protective rim behind said optical surfaces as well as a grip surface to facilitate handling without touching or marring said optical surfaces,

47. apparatus according to claim 1 in which said substrate is transparent plastic, the outer refracting surface of said substrate having a total curvature of slightly less than 180 degrees, said substrate being precision molded plastic;

48. apparatus according to claim 7 in which said substrate is transparent plastic, the outer refracting surface of said substrate having a total curvature of more than 180 degrees, said substrate also extending behind the perimeter of all reflecting and refracting optical surfaces and providing a protective rim behind said optical surfaces as well as a grip surface to facilitate handhng without touching or marnng said optical surfaces, the outer refracting surface of said substrate being fabncated by modes which include molding or turning,

49 apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising refracting optics, said refracting optics being coaxial with and having a diameter smaller than said pnmary reflector surface, said means for mounting including a cell for said refracting optics, said means for mounting positioning said refracting optics between said transparent central zone in said pnmary reflector surface and the focal surface of said article, said refracting optics being in unobstructed optical communication with both, said refracting optics being in optical communication with said great circle suπoundmg said pπmary reflector surface by means of refraction through the outer surface of said substrate and reflection from said pπmary reflector surface and said secondary reflector surface, said refracting lenses having a longitudinal position coπesponding to said vantage point, said longitudinal position of said vantage point being variable according to the embodiment and application of said optical system,

50 apparatus according to claim 49, further compnsing a senes of refracting lenses in interchangeable cells which are each capable of producing a real image from the overall optical system at a focal surface, said cells being of appropπate lengths to produce proper focus and image size at said focal surface when used with the intended articles having a focal surface, said cells also incorporating adaptation and mounting means for appropπate standardized adapters and camera and instrumentation mounting interfaces,

51 apparatus according to claim 49 in which said refracting lenses are capable of producing a real annular image of the virtual image resulting from reflections off said pπmary reflector surface and said secondary reflector surface, said real image being at or relayed to the focal surface of said article, mounting means for said refracting lenses also providing aperture adjustment means, focus adjustment means, and a filter holder, as required, said article being a camera, projector, medical instrument, or other device,

52 apparatus according to claim 49 in which said refracting lenses are of the zoom type, whereby images of different sizes are produced by adjusting the focal length of said zoom lens, whereby the same optical system can be used advantageously with different formats,

53 apparatus according to claim 49 in which the overall optical system has an exit pupil, said refracting optics causing paraxial light rays behind said optical system to be parallel, enabling said optical system to be used m front of an article having a focal plane where said article has a lens focused at and slightly closer than infinity, said optical system being compatible with cameras and projectors having fixed lenses, thereby enabling said optical system to be used afocally in front of said fixed lenses,

54 apparatus according to claim 1, also compnsmg a refracting lens system immediately behind said transparent central zone of said pnmary reflector surface, said lens system having increasing positive optical power toward its penmeter, said refracting lens system correcting for field curvature,

55 apparatus according to claim 49 in which said refracting optics substantially coπect curvature of the virtual image resulting from reflections off said pnmary reflector surface and said secondary reflector surface, thereby facilitating the optimum use of a flat focal surface, said refracting optics typically compnsmg at least one lens, at least one of which has negative optical power, said negative lens being positioned in relatively close proximity to said focal surface, further, where the application permits, said negative lens can be in contact with or virtually in contact with said focal surface, as supported by U S provisional application senal number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997,

56 apparatus according to claim 55 in which an existing achromatic Barlow lens design is used as the field flattener, (not supported in provisional applications)

57 apparatus according to claim 49 in which said refracting lenses and other optical surfaces substantially correct abeπations such as off-axis astigmatism which result from off-axis reflections off of said pnmary reflector surface and said secondary reflector surface, as marginally supported by U S provisional application seπal number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997,

58 apparatus according to claim 49 in which said refracting lenses substantially coπect primary and residual aberrations from said solid transparent optical substrate, said pnmary reflector surface and said secondary reflector surface, said coπected abeπations including lateral chromatic abeπation, said optics also forming a real image of said virtual image at said focal surface and vice versa, (Remarks, this optical system is that of the title of U S provisional application 60/043,701, filed April 16, 1997)

59 apparatus according to claim 49, in which one or more elements in said imaging and coπecting optics have discontinuous aspheric curves which may include an annular deviation in its figure (similar in concept to a Schmidt coπector but more pronounced) which is utilized in coπecting abeπations from said substrate, said abeπations including bidirectional lateral chromatic abeπation and astigmatism, said reflector surfaces having a figures which are used in the control of astigmatism and correction for spatial distortion in the annular image caused by said annular figure of sad imaging and coπecting optical element; thereby facilitating sharp images and a relatively fast numeπcal f/ratio, (not supported in provisional applications)

60 apparatus according to claim 49 in which said transparent area m center of said pnmary reflector surface is concentπc with the optical center of said refracting optics,

61 apparatus according to claim 49 in which said means for mounting include a central cell, said cell protruding back behind said pnmary reflector surface, said protruding cell having a slot around its circumference which may be used to attach accessones and facilitate storage of the overall optical system in a case without any optical surfaces being in contact with said case, said cell being capable of supporting the weight of the entire optical system, attributes of said cell including said slot providing means to attach devices including a solar occulting disk, a level indicator, and data display devices; said level indicator and display devices being directly visible and imaged at said focal surface of said article having a focal surface, said cell also having provision to house said refracting lenses, said cell further comprising a filter holder,

62. apparatus according to claim 49 in which said rear imaging optics and a focal surface are recessed inside the hollow area behind said primary reflector surface, whereby the position thereof facilitating better performance with a given numerical f/ratio and sophistication of correcting optics,

63. apparatus according to claim 49 in which said article having a focal surface and its lens are located behind said transparent area in center of said primary reflector surface, enabling said article and its lens to directly view the virtual image from said secondary reflector surface and form a real image from the overall optical system at said focal surface, the longitudinal position of said article and lens being variable in order to allow said camera and lens to either be recessed inside the hollow area behind said primary reflector surface or positioned behind the overall optical assembly, said overall optical system not including its own rear imaging optics.

64. apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an occulting attachment consisting of a small darkened occulting body (typically a sphere) which is affixed to the end of a thin wire of sufficient rigidity to prevent oscillation of said occulting body by wind or moderate motion, said attachment providing for reduction of flare by interrupting specular optical communication between a bright light source such as the sun and the focal surface of said article, said occulting body typically having an angular subtense at least one degree larger than said bright light source as seen from the coπesponding area of said virtual image from said primary reflector surface, thereby causing the image of said occulting body to completely cover said bright light source in the image formed by said optical system, said occultation resulting in a drastic reduction in unwanted reflections and flare; said means for mounting having provision for attaching said occulting attachment to either the front of said optical substrate or a rim suπounding an area behind said primary reflector surface, said mounting means also providing for adjustment of said occulting body position,

65. apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a level indicator which is attached in close proximity to and slightly behind the perimeter of said primary reflector surface, said level indicator having easily distinguished indication means when observed from above and below, said secondary reflector surface being larger than what is required to image said primary reflector surface alone, said secondary reflector baffle providing means for optical communication between said level and the focal surface of said article, said level being imaged at said focal surface by means of reflection via said secondary reflector, whereby said level is visible in the image and the viewfinder of a single lens reflex camera, thereby facilitating effective hand held use of the optical system since the photographer and said camera or similar article are behind said primary reflector surface, as supported by U.S. provisional application serial number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997;

66. apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an integral level indicator or window for viewing a level indicator, whereby said level indicator which is visible in the image (and thereby in the viewfinder of a camera) and from an external position, said visibility in the image being accomplished by said indicator being positioned outside the perimeter of said primary reflector surface but within the perimeter of the outer refracting surface of said substrate, said level indicator also being behind the longitudinal position of the perimeter of said primary reflector surface, said level indicator being visible in said image by total internal reflection from the solid optical substrate, where the vantage point is in optical communication with the camera directly from a camera or by reflection from secondary reflector surface, depending on the embodiment, said level being visible directly by looking through the outer refracting surface of said substrate, said level indicator also observable through the rear of said invention in embodiments where the rear of said level indicator and its enclosing structure are transparent, (Not in applicant's provisional application 60/043,701 Remarks Total internal reflection from the outer refracting surface is avoided in the imaging system itself )

67 apparatus according to claim 7 in which said secondary reflector surface has an optically transparent central zone, said optical system further compnsmg a level indicator which is visible through said transparent central zone, whereby said level indicator is visible in the image produced by the invention,

68 apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a penscopic optical system which points directly behind said optical system, said penscopic optical system being attached to said optical system at a point between the back of said pnmary reflector surface and the front of said article having a focal surface, said attachment means including a hollow tube, minors, and relay optics, said penscopic optical system having a circular field of view greater than the conical exclusion zone behind said pπmary reflector surface, the image from said penscopic optical system being imaged at a common focal surface with the annular image from said optical system, but in an area not occupied by said annular image, whereby the overall optical system images the entire sphere around itself on a single focal surface, further, the use of a beam splitter on a transparent support which is in proximity to said focal surface will allow said circular image to be imaged in the center of said annular image,

69 apparatus according to claim 1, associated with (attached to or incorporated into) a camera, photographic optical system, electronic image system, motion picture system, surgical instrument, endoscope, bore scope, surveillance instrument, robotic device, microphone, speaker, or similar article, said article incorporating means for providing illumination of the subject where and as dictated by the application, subject illumination means being located behmd said pnmary reflector surface and in front of said secondary reflector surface, said lighting means being shielded so as not to directly stnke the optics in order to reduce flare, and where electronic flash is used, said flash in front of said secondary reflector surface is tnggered by a photosensitive slave sensor in order to eliminate wiπng, said flash illumination bemg compatible with still and motion images, (Remarks Lighting from behind pπmary addressed in U S provisional application 60/043,701, other aspects of lighting not fully supported in provisional applications)

70 apparatus according to claim 69, associated with an electronic imaging sensor, provision of subject illumination means also employing a range gated imaging by means of a sensor exposure of only a few to a few dozen nanoseconds, which in turn results in a shorter effective exposure for objects nearest the optical system, further provision thereof in which illumination is actually directed through said optical system by means of a beam splitter pπor to the initiation on an exposure

71 apparatus according to claim 1, further compnsmg an electronic imaging sensor capable of exposure and readout without mechanical shuttering, said optical system being capable of imaging the entire sphere around itself, said imaging being accomplished without any moving parts,

72 apparatus according to claim 71, said combination also having provision and interface capability to facilitate real time digital processing of more than 23 images per second, whereby said optical system may also be associated with a separate full motion imaging system, (motion pictures covered in both provisional applications, but digital may not have been specified)

73 apparatus according to claim 4 in which a round baffle may be attached to said substrate, said round baffle having longitudinal positioning means, whereby the shadow of said round baffle changes the distance of said axial pomt disposed a finite distance in front of said pπmary reflector surface, thereby providing means for said axial point to coincide with a front projection surface, thereby resulting in a seamless projection across the central part of a projection surface having a finite distance from said optical system, said apparatus being associated with the projection of images which completely suπound the viewing participant, as supported by U.S. provisional application serial number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997;

74. apparatus according to claim 1, whereby said optical system is associated with a projector and a spherical or semi spherical projection surface to facilitate the geometric conversion of an annular image into a spherical projection around said optical system, said convex primary reflector surface having a strong aspheric figure which, in conjunction with said outer refracting surface, facilitates correct image proportions and constant projection brightness throughout the surface of a spherical or semi-spherical projection area, said primary reflector surface compensating for varying distances to said projection area and the position of said primary reflector surface relative to said projection surface, said apparatus being applicable to applications including virtual reality headsets, games, simulators, booths, suites, and theaters, as supported by U.S. provisional application serial number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997;

75. apparatus according to claim 1, embodied in any size laparascopic surgical or observation instrument, endoscope, sigmoidoscope, bore scope, camera, projector, surveillance instrument, flight control system, robotic device, or similar article, said article incorporating means for providing illumination of the suπounding area, where and as dictated by the application,

76. apparatus according to claim 1 in which a laparascopic or other article includes electronic imaging means and has means for providing adaptation and computer interface capability to facilitate substantial real time digital processing of the image,

77. apparatus according to claim 1 in which two such omnidirectional optical systems are incorporated into a single instrument, said optical systems being pointed in opposite directions m order to provide redundant coverage of the entire subject with opposing image projections, resulting m reduced distortion of many parts of the subject without resorting to external image processing,

78 apparatus according to claim 77 m which two such omnidirectional optical systems are incorporated into a single instrument, one or more of said optical systems being mdependently positionable in order to provide redundant coverage of the entire subject with configurable image projections, resulting in reduced subject distortion without resorting to external image processing,

79 apparatus according to claim 1 m which said mounting means provide for translating the overall optical system m front of a camera or similar article in order to allow a larger overall image to be photographed in two or more separate pictures on a rectangular format, facilitating a larger image scale m the resulting images,

80 apparatus according to claim 1 in which said outer refracting surface is covered with a thin layer of removable transparent mateπal such as or similar to that used in making pellicle beam splitters, said mateπal being m contact with said outer refracting surface of said solid optic and capable of protecting it from abrasion, erosion, or chemical influence,

81 apparatus according to claim 1 in which said outer optical surface encloses only the secondary reflector surface and does not occupy the entire area between said secondary reflector surface and said pπmary reflector surface, said optical surface between said reflector surfaces compnsmg a transparent axial strut, whereby said vantage pomt is in optical communication with said great circle and said area in front and behind said great circle by means of reflection from said primary reflector surface, refraction through said substrate, reflection from said secondary reflector surface, transmission down the inside of said ttansparent axial strut, refraction through the rear surface of said substrate, and refraction by said imaging and coπecting lenses

82. An optical system comprising:

* a solid optical substrate having a convex outer refracting surface, said surface covering most of the front and side of said substrate,

* said substrate having an internal convex reflector surface of radial symmetry,

* said reflector surface being in optical communication with a great circle suπounding it, the plane of said great circle being perpendicular to the optical axis of said reflector surface, said optical communication being through the outer refractive surface of said substrate,

* said reflector surface having sufficient curvature to be in optical communication with a substantial area in front of and behind the plane of said great circle,

* whereby said optical system produces a virtual image of said great circle and said area above and below its plane, said virtual image being annular,

* said virtual image being visible from an axial vantage point outside said substrate and in front of said reflector surface, said vantage point being in optical communication with said great circle and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle by means of reflection from said reflector surface and refraction through the surface of said substrate;

* means for mounting said substrate,

* said means for mounting having provision for handling said optical system without touching its optical surfaces;

* said means for mounting providing stable support and alignment of said substrate without causing deformation thereof,

* said means for mounting providing for attachment of said optical system to an article having a focal surface. * said article being in front of said reflector surface,

* said mounting means facilitating use of said optical system in any orientation,

* said optical system being associated with a refracting lens system, said refracting lens system being disposed coaxial to said optical system, both being associated with the formation of a real image of said virtual image at said focal surface,

* whereby said optical system when combined with said article having a focal surface facilitate the geometric conversion of said great circle and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle into a real annular image at the focal surface of said article and vice versa,

83. apparatus according to claim 82 where the outer refracting surface of said substrate comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution being nearly perpendicular to the light path at a zone just outside the perimeter of said article and any related baffle, whereby lateral chromatic aberration at said zone is negligible, whereby lateral chromatic abeπation in the virtual image from the overall system will increase as a function of off-axis distance, thereby facilitating coπection of lateral chromatic abeπation by means of relatively conventional coπecting optics or by separating a real image into separate colors and individually scaling each color separation,

84. apparatus according to claim 82 in which the outer refracting surface of said substrate comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution having an angle of incidence to the light path at a zone just outside the perimeter of said article and any related baffle, whereby a zone in front of said optical system that would otherwise be obscured by said article and any related baffle is imaged by means of being in optical communication with said reflector surface by refraction through said zone in said substrate, thereby extending the angle of view toward the end of the invention to which said article is attached,

85. apparatus according to claim 82 in which the outer refracting surface of said substtate comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution having a substantial angle of incidence to the light path at a zone just outside the perimeter of said article and any related baffle, whereby an axial point disposed a finite distance in front of said optical system is imaged by means of being in optical communication with said reflector surface by refraction through said zone in said substrate, thereby extending the angle of view all the way around the end of the invention to which said article is attached,

86. apparatus according to claim 82 in which the outer refracting surface of said substrate comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution having an angle of incidence to the light path at a zone just outside and behind the perimeter of said reflector surface, whereby a zone behind of said optical system that would otherwise be beyond the limit of coverage for said reflector surface is imaged by means of being in optical communication with said reflector surface by refraction through said zone in said substtate, thereby extending the angle of view toward the end of the invention opposite said article,

87. apparatus according to claim 82 in which the outer refracting surface of said substtate comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution having an angle of incidence to the light path at a zone just outside and behind the perimeter of said reflector surface, whereby an axial point a finite distance behind said optical system is imaged by means of being in optical communication with said reflector surface by refraction through said zone in said substtate, thereby extending the angle of view all the way around the end of the invention opposite said article,

88. apparatus according to claim 85 in which the outer refracting surface of said substrate has an angle of incidence to the light path at a zone just outside and behind the perimeter of said reflector surface, whereby an axial point a finite distance beyond the end of said optical system opposite said article is imaged by means of being in optical communication with said reflector surface by refraction through said zone in said substrate, thereby extending the angle of view all the way around the end of the invention opposite said article, resulting in coverage of the entire sphere around said optical system,

89. apparatus according to claim 82 in which said outer refracting surface is comprised of a plurality of scallops which are concave as seen from the front but convex as seen from the side, refraction through said scallops causing the area occupied by each scallop to have more than twice the included angle as the angular circumference of the optical surface it occupies; for example, as seen from the front, each scallop of a twelve scallop optical system would occupy 30 degrees of the circumference as seen from the front; therefore, each of said scallops would provide more than 60 degrees of coverage; said optical system providing a sectored virtual image, said image having the same number of sectors as said refracting surface has scallops, each of said scallops covering a circumferential angle of view of more than twice the circumferential angle occupied by each sector, whereby said virtual image covers each point in said great circle and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle at least twice, thereby providing fully redundant coverage thereof; said twice imaged points having circumferentially separated vantage points, said points being circumferentially separated in said virtual image, said redundant coverage providing three dimensional information for the entire area of coverage; said optical system also being applicable to the projection of sectored images whereby said redundant images overlap and include three dimensional information; the concepts, principles,and geometry of said optical system also being applicable for the basis of image processing techniques, algorithms, and software which are associated with viewing, analyzing, and otherwise utilizing images produced and reproduced by said optical system, (not supported by the applicant's provisional applications)

90. apparatus according to claim 82 in which the figure of said outer refracting surface is optimized to minimize flare and ghost images,

91. apparatus according to claim 82 in which the outer refracting surface of said substrate has anti reflection coatings,

92. apparatus according to claim 82 in which said reflector surface has reflective coatings which facilitate efficient reflection at a wide range of incident angles, including angles not subject to total internal reflection,

93. apparatus according to claim 82 in which the perimeter of said optical system provides means for accurately indicating the limits of the image it produces,

94. apparatus according to claim 82 in which said reflector surface has reflective coatings which facilitate efficient reflection at a wide range of incident angles, including angles not subject to total internal reflection,

95. apparatus according to claim 82 in which said reflector surface comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution being radially compressed inward toward the optical axis, whereby the apex of said reflector surface comprises a point, whereby said vantage point in front of said reflector surface is in optical communication with a smaller angular area in front of said great circle, thereby increasing the size of a central angular exclusion zone in front of said reflector surface while eliminating the image area occupied by said article, thereby increasing the radial proportions of the imaged area immediately surrounding the plane of said great circle, thereby resulting in a larger radial image scale for said area covered on a given image format, owing to the reduced relative size of an imaged central obscuration area,

96. apparatus according to claim 82 in which said convex reflector surface comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution having a prolate aspheric figure, said prolate aspheric figure also being radially enlarged outward from the optical axis, whereby the surface of said convex reflector surface is closer to perpendicular with the optical axis at a zone which immediately suπounds the reflection of said article having a focal surface, whereby said focal surface is in optical communication with a greater angular area in front of said great circle, thereby reducing the size of the central angular exclusion zone in front of said convex reflector surface caused by said article after accounting for refraction by the outer surface of said optical system,

97. apparatus according to claim 82 in which said convex reflector surface comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution having a prolate aspheric figure, said prolate aspheric figure also being torroidal as a result of being radially enlarged outward from the optical axis, whereby said torroidal reflector surface curves backward in the zone immediately surrounding an area the size of a central obstruction, whereby the radial zone of said toπoidal reflector surface by which the focal surface of said article is in optical communication with an axial point disposed at a finite distance in front of said optical system by means of reflection from said zone of said toπoidal reflector surface has a larger diameter than the obstruction of said article, thereby eliminating the central angular exclusion zone in front of said reflector surface, the only excluded area being confined to a narrow conical area extending from the perimeter of said article with any associated mounting and shielding to said axial point disposed a finite distance in front of said torroidal reflector surface after accounting for refraction by the outer surface of said optical system,

98. apparatus according to claim 82 in which said convex reflector surface has a scalloped surface resulting in a plurality of convex lobes disposed evenly around its circumference, each lobe having more than twice the included angle as the angular circumference of the reflector surface it occupies, for example, as seen from the front, each lobe of an twelve lobe reflector surface would occupy 30 degrees of the circumference, therefore, each of said lobes would have more than 60 degrees of curvature as seen from the front, said scalloped reflector surface providing a sectored virtual image, said image having the same number of sectors as said scalloped reflector surface has lobes, each of said sectors covering a circumferential angle of view of more than twice the circumferential angle occupied by each sector, whereby said virtual image covers each pomt in said great circle and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle at least twice, thereby providing fully redundant coverage thereof, said twice imaged points having circumferentially separated vantage points and being circumferentially separated in said virtual image, said redundant coverage providing three dimensional information for the entire area of coverage, said optical system also being applicable to the projection of sectored images whereby said redundant images overlap and include three dimensional information, the concepts, pπncιples,and geometry of said optical system are also being applicable for the basis of image processing techmques, algonthms, and software which are associated with viewing, analyzing, and otherwise utilizing images produced and reproduced by said optical system, as supported by U S provisional application seπai number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997,

99 apparatus according to claim 82, in which only the side of said outer refracting surface is utilized between said reflector surface and the imaged area surrounding said optical system, the front of said substrate having a large surface through which the entirety of said reflector surface can be seen from a distant axial viewpoint, said optical system facilitating use at a distance from a camera or observer, whereby the image may be observed or recorded with an optical system having magnification,

100 apparatus according to claim 99, in which said optical system is supported in front of said article having a focal surface by means of an axial strut,

101 apparatus according to claim 82 in which the entirety of said outer refracting surface is a continuous surface of revolution which is close to said reflector surface, the combination compnsmg a mangin minor in which said outer refractive surface is utilized to coπect for abeπations and distortion, said article having a focal surface typically being disposed a distance from the front of said outer refracting surface,

102 apparatus according to claim 82 in which said reflector surface is a hemisphere and said outer reflective surface comprises a hyperhemispheπcal surface which is concentric with said reflector surface, said optical system being applicable to utilization for observation or projection of an image from a remote or nearby vantage point,

103 apparatus according to claim 82, further compnsmg refracting lenses, said refracting lenses being coaxial with said reflector surface, said lenses coπecting for curvature of the virtual image and abeπations resulting from oblique reflections off said convex reflector surface, said means for mounting positioning said refracting lenses between said reflector surface and the focal surface of said article, said means for mounting having an attachment to said substrate, said means for mounting including a cell for said refracting lenses and facilitating unobstructed optical communication between said lenses, said article, and said reflector surface, said refracting lenses being m optical communication with said great circle suπounding said reflector surface by means of reflection from said reflector surface and refraction through said outer refracting surface, and said secondary reflector, said refracting lenses having a longitudinal position coπesponding to said axial vantage point which is in optical communication with said great circle and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle, said longitudinal position of said vantage point bemg varied accordmg to the embodiment and application of said optical system, as marginally supported by U S provisional application seπal number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997,

104. apparatus according to claim 103, further comprising a filter holder,

105. apparatus according to claim 103, further comprising a series of refracting lenses in interchangeable cells which are each capable of producing a real image from the overall optical system at a focal surface, said cells being of appropriate lengths to produce proper focus and image size at said focal surface when used with the intended article having a focal surface, said cells also incorporating adaptation and mounting means for appropriate standardized adapters and camera and instrumentation mounting interfaces,

106. apparatus according to claim 103 in which said refracting lenses are capable of producing a real annular image of the virtual image resulting from reflections off said reflector surface and refraction through said outer refracting surface, said real image being at the focal surface of said article, mounting means for said refracting lenses also providing means for aperture adjustment,

107. apparatus according to claim 103 in which said reflector surface said associated refracting optics are capable of causing all rays from the overall optical system to be parallel, enabling said optical system to be used in front of a lens for a film camera, video camera, or similar article, where said lens is focused at infinity (or hyperfocal distance in the case of a fixed focus lens).

108. apparatus according to claim 82, whereby said optical system is associated with a projector and a cylindrical projection surface to facilitate the geometric conversion of an annular image into a cylindrical projection around said optical system, whereby said convex reflector surface has a strong aspheric figure which, in conjunction with said outer refracting surface, facilitates coπect image proportions and substantially constant projection brightness throughout the projection area, said cylindrical projection being applicable to display and printing,

109. apparatus according to claim 82, whereby said optical system is associated with a projector and a spherical projection surface to facilitate the geometric conversion of an annular image into a spherical projection around said optical system, whereby said convex reflector surface is at the center of said spherical projection surface, said reflector surface having an aspheric figure which, in conjunction with said outer refracting surface, facilitates coπect image proportions and constant projection brightness throughout the projection area,

110. apparatus according to claim 82, whereby said optical system is associated with a projector and a spherical or semi spherical projection surface to facilitate the geometric conversion of an annular image into a spherical projection around said optical system, whereby said convex reflector surface is at a position other than the center of said spherical or semi spherical projection surface, said reflector surface having a strong aspheric figure which, in conjunction with said outer refracting surface, facilitates coπect image proportions and constant projection brightness throughout the projection area in spite of the varying distances to said projection area, said apparatus being applicable to applications including virtual reality headsets, games, simulators, booths, suites, and theaters, as supported by U.S. provisional application serial number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997;

111. apparatus according to claim 82, whereby said optical system is used to image, display, and simulate phenomena associated with a total solar eclipse, said optical system being associated with a projector for display of said subject matter by projection, whereby said convex reflector surface is at a position other than the center of a spherical or semi spherical projection surface, said reflector surface having a strong aspheric figure which, in conjunction with any refractive effects from said outer refracting surface, facilitates coπect image proportions and constant projection brightness throughout the projection area in spite of the varying distances to said projection area, as supported by U.S. provisional application serial number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997;

112. apparatus according to claim 110, in which a plurality of said optical systems are utilized to project images into multiple rooms, including multiple portal virtual reality suites and theaters; said apparatus providing for the active masking of projection onto doorways which may be opened and closed, said masking accomplished by means of masks which are positioned in order to obstruct optical communication between an open doorway and the projection source, said masking means having provision to be synchronized with the opening and closing of doors and portals between different rooms; further, a fixed mask may be used where a doorway is always open, said fixed mask being a separate part of a coating such as paint which is applied to the surface of said outer refracting surface,

113. apparatus according to claim 110, whereby two of said optical systems are associated with a projector and a spherical or semi spherical projection surface, said optical systems being off center and on opposing ends of said spherical projection area, said arrangement facilitating the geometric conversion of two annular images into a spherical projection which covers the entire inside of said spherical projection area without obstructing the center of said projection area or requiring projector light to pass through the center of said spherical projection area, thereby allowing members of an audience to be positioned at and near the center of said projection area, said reflector surface also having provision for rear projection means onto an area suπounding the back surface of its perimeter, as supported by U.S. provisional application serial number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997;

114. apparatus according to claim 113, further comprising means to suspend one or more members of an audience at and near the center of said projection area, said suspension means having provision for lowering and raising an audience member to and from the floor, the surface of said projection area under the audience being comprised of inexpensive modular sections which can be replaced if soiled by a participant's feet or the results of motion sickness, as supported by U.S. provisional application serial number 60/055,876, filed August 15, 1997.

115. apparatus according to claim 82, embodied in any size laparascopic surgical or observation instrument, endoscope, sigmoidoscope, bore scope, camera, projector, surveillance instrument, flight control system, robotic device, or similar article, said article incorporating means for providing illumination of the subject as appropriate,

116. apparatus according to claim 115 in which said laparascopic or other instrument article includes electronic imaging means and has means for interface to systems facilitating substantial real time digital processing of the image produced therewith,

117. apparatus according to claim 115 in which two omnidirectional optical systems are incorporated into a single instrument, said optical systems being pointed in opposite directions in order to provide redundant coverage of the entire subject with opposing image projections, resulting in reduced distortion of many parts of the subject without resorting to external image processing,

118. apparatus according to claim 115, in which two such omnidirectional optical systems are incorporated into a single instrument, one or more of said optical systems being independently positionable in order to provide redundant coverage of the entire subject with configurable image projections, resulting in reduced subject distortion without resorting to external image processing,

119. apparatus according to claim 82, in which said reflector surface and said outer refracting surface have substantially more curvature than that required for full sphere coverage in conventional surroundings, whereby full sphere coverage is achieved when said optical system is immersed in liquid,

120. apparatus according to claim 95, further comprising axial expansion optics in front of said reflector surface, said expansion optics expanding the coverage of a lasers or other light source to cover the entirety of said reflector surface, thereby providing omnidirectional expansion of said light source for applications including holographic imaging and projection,

121. apparatus according to claim 82 in which said convex reflector surface comprises a surface of revolution, said surface of revolution having a prolate aspheric figure.

122. apparatus according to claim 82 in which said substrate surrounds a hyperhemispherical refracting optical system such as a fisheye lens, said substtate acting entirely as a refracting element and extending the field of view of an said hyperhemispherical fisheye lens, the internal surface of said substrate having a hyperhemispherical void rather than a reflecting surface, said fisheye lens being axially positioned inside of said substrate, the perimeter of the front element of said fisheye lens being just in front of the rear limit of said internal hyperhemispherical surface of said substtate.

123. An optical system comprising:

* a convex specular reflector having radial symmetry,

* said reflector being in optical communication with a great circle surrounding it, the plane of said great circle being perpendicular to the optical axis of said reflector

* said reflector having sufficient curvature to be in optical communication with a substantial area in front and behind the plane of said great circle,

* said reflector being suπounded by an annular optical element having a radial cross section similar that of the front element of a fisheye lens,

* said annular optical element extending the field of view of said reflector to cover a greater angle in front and behind the plane of said great circle,

* whereby said optical system produces a virtual image of the said great circle and said area above and below its plane, said virtual image being annular, * said virtual image being visible from a vantage point in front of said reflector by means of said vantage point being in optical communication with said great circle and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle by means of reflection from said convex reflector and refraction through said annular optical element,

* means for mounting and said optical system,

* said means for mounting providing stable support and alignment of said reflector and annular optical element without causing deformation thereof,

* said means for mounting providing for attachment of said optical system to an article having a focal surface,

* said article being in front of said reflector,

* said means providing a shielding to preventing stray light from entering,

* said mounting means facilitating unobstructed optical communication between said article and the utilized radial zones of said convex reflector,

* said optical system being associated with a refracting lens system, said refracting lens system being disposed coaxial to said optical system, both being associated with the formation of a real image of said virtual image at said focal surface,

* whereby said optical system combined with said article facilitate the geometric conversion of said great circle and said area in front and behind the plane of said great circle into a real annular image at the focal surface of said article and vice versa, (not supported in the applicant's provisional applications; conceived in claimed form on the evening of Friday, 27 March, 1998)

124. apparatus according to claim 123 in which said annular optical element extends the field of view from each side of said reflector to more than 180 degrees, whereby said optical system covers the entire sphere around itself while having a lighter weight than the other embodiments of the present invention, said optical being produced by turning or other means,

125. apparatus according to claim 123 in which the effective radius of said reflector increases toward the central and edge zones, whereby reflection from said reflector compensates for radial compression of the image caused near the limits of coverage for said annular lens, where the cross section of said annular lens is of an embodiment having semi circular curves,

126. apparatus according to claim 123 in which the figure of said reflector is radially compressed, the apex of said reflector being a point, whereby a visible reflection of the area occupied by said article having a focal surface is excluded from the field of view, thereby providing a larger radial image scale for the image produced by said optical system on a given format, whereby said reflector when made of sufficient radial compression will enable a circular image at said focal surface as opposed to an annular one,

127. apparatus according to claim 123 in which the figure of said reflector conical,

128. apparatus according to claim 123 in which the figure of said reflector is like that of a convex cone having a concave curvature on its sides, whereby said figure causes radial distribution of the image to be the reverse of that produced by reflection from a conventional convex reflector, (Remarks: A side view of this reflector would be reminiscent of a side view of a "chocolate drop" candy.)

129. apparatus according to claim 123 in which the figure of said reflector is configured to cause the virtual center of all utilized reflections from it to be at the same axial point, thereby optimizing it to minimize distortion of the entrance pupil for the overall optical system,

130. apparatus according to claim 123 in which said reflector consists a solid catadioptric substrate having an internal reflector surface, the outside surface thereof being utilized to reduce distortion and abeπations,

131. apparatus according to claim 123, also having imaging and coπecting optics between said reflector and said focal surface;

132. apparatus according to claim 131, in which one or more elements in said imaging and coπecting optics has an annular deviation in its figure (similar in concept to a Schmidt coπector but more pronounced) which is utilized in coπecting abeπations from said annular lens, said abeπations including bidirectional lateral chromatic abeπation and astigmatism, said reflector having a figure which is used in the control of astigmatism and coπection for spatial distortion in the annular image caused by said annular figure of said imaging and coπecting optical element;

133. apparatus according to claim 131, in which said means for mounting includes an axial cell for said imaging optics, said means for mounting also providing attachment means for devices including as a solar occulting object, a level indicator, and data display devices; said level indicator being internal or external, said means for mounting also providing attachment means for a camera, projector, or similar article,

134. apparatus according to claim 123 in which said annular lens is longitudinally asymmetrical in order to compensate for attributes of said reflector, where the virtual center of utilized reflections from various zones of said reflector varies according to each zone utilized,

135. apparatus according to claim 123 in which said reflector is the primary reflector of a Cassegrain system, said primary reflector having a hole in its center, said optical system having a secondary reflector and said article having a focal surface being behind said primary reflector,

136. apparatus according to claim 123 in which said annular lens is scalloped in order to provide redundant coverage, said redundant coverage providing three dimensional information,

137. apparatus according to claim 123 in which the longitudinal position said reflector is such that the central apex of said reflector is at a longitudinal position having proximity to the longitudinal center of said annular (or semi toπoidal) optical element.