Sighting system and method
This invention relates to optical sighting apparatus systems, and to methods for visualization and for identifying remote target surface areas without physical contact for the purpose of measurement and/or of treatment of the remote surface. An arrangement of projected light beams indicates the position and size of the target surface in relation to a measurement detector or treatment device, so that the device is accurately directed to the target. In a preferred arrangement separate laser beams form a light distribution indication or brightness pattern at the target and the device is sighted toward the pattern on the target surface area.
1. A system for remote surface visualization comprising:
separate aiming lights each directed to a remote surface to form there upon a visible light distribution display pattern for sighting a measurement or treatment device to test, measure, or manage an identified surface area;
means to control visibility of the pattern according to measured distance between the lights and the surface pattern; and
a range finder operating in combination with a micro processor, having a program and a memory, which includes optical-focus data charts, whereby pattern light from separate aiming lights is activated by said processor to produce a pattern of optimal visibility according to range finder indicated distance, both at a close position and at a far position.
2. A method of visualization of a remote surface for aiming the system of claim 1 at a selected area, comprising directing separate aiming maker display light sources to produce a light aiming display pattern on said surface and adjusting the visibility of the display pattern according to the measured distance between the system and the display pattern.
3. Method of claim 2 for aiming an instrument to identify and to visualize a remote target surface area without contact and to provide instrumental measurement or treatment of the identified area comprising:
a) directing visible variable focus light sighting means from said instrument onto said area, which means is arranged to form an identifiable visible instrument aiming pattern on said surface at a close position and at a far position;
b) directing said instrument and said sighting means to capture, focus and embrace an image of said pattern from said area with sighting means of said instrument; and
c) providing measurement or treatment of said area by said instrument.
4. Method of claim 3 in which said sighting means comprises separate light sources.
5. Method of claim 3 in which at least one of said light sources is a laser.
6. Method of claim 3 in which said instrument measures infrared radiation from said surface to indicate the temperature thereof.
7. Apparatus for aiming a device at a remote surface area as in the system of claim 1 comprising separate marker display lights, means to pulsate the lights, means to measure distance between the lights and the surface area and means to detect and to regulate the visibility of the display.