The lenses of
INFINITY: PROXIMITY¢â
Series
InfiniMini¢â
InfiniMite¢â InfiniStix¢â
InfiniTube¢â
Although we may at times refer to
Proximity lenses as instruments in the generic sense, they are ultimately
application-specific lenses (as opposed to systems). Infinity¡¯s
main product line of instruments (those without the Proximity logo)
are full-fledged instrument systems, (systems being the keyword).
They may be more adaptable and afford greater range of options and
customization than Proximity lenses. However, within their ¡°application
envelope,¡± Proximity lenses out-perform anything comparable.
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InfiniMite¢â
"The Smart Lens"¢â
(.pdf )
Capable of direct focus from infinity
to 30mm, InfiniMite is a new addition to the PROXIMITY Series of
application-specific video/machine vision lenses. Input from machine
vision specialists was taken into consideration during the design
and development of InfiniMite, resulting in a truly innovative C/CS-mount
video lens with many unique features. Incorporating a patented Dynamic
(internal) Focusing System (DFS), InfiniMite always remains dimensionally
stable. InfiniMite¡¯s DFS system provides continuous spherical correction
with progressive proximity to the subject. This means that InfiniMite
improves its image quality where other lenses suffer aberrational
defects.
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InfiniMite¢â
(Alpha) can be used
with larger-sensored cameras?and at many intermediate working distances
and magnifications. However, it was specifically designed to provide
an optimum operating range and set of magnification options for
1/3-in. sensors commonly incorporated in smart-sensored video cameras.
At specific points, InfiniMite "knows" it attains 0.25x,
0.50x and 0.75x. By adding a 2x Power Module Amplifier (DL or LDL
Tube), InfiniMite can be used at 0.50x, 1x and 1.50x?without altering
the original working distance.
InfiniMite¢â (Beta) Aside from
being 7mm longer, the Beta is identical to the Alpha and produces
the same magnification, but with approximately 50% greater working
distance at any given time. Please refer to the magnification charts
in the OEM Handbook (above pdf file) for specific details.
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FOCUSING-LOCK
TYPES: (Available
on both Alpha and Beta)
Variable / Friction Lock (InfiniMite
"Reference" Series )
The Reference version contains an integral Focus-lock that operates
as a friction brake. This type of focusing mechanism facilitates
easy "back and forth" adjustment (via its ergonomic knurled
focusing ring) whenever frequent re-focusing is necessary, yet offers
the ability to lock it at any desired focus. This is the InfiniMite
most frequently ordered.
Variable / Direct Quick-lock (InfiniMite-IND)
The Industrial version offers the versatility of variable focus,
but with the simplicity of its Quick-lock focuser. Designed to fit
into machine vision/video housing, etc., the (smooth) focusing ring
on the InfiniMite-IND is meant to be locked at one focus, but may
be conveniently re-set (by a sliding set-screw adjustment) if the
need arises. This "set and forget" type of system reduces
the chances that its focus will be knocked out of position or tampered
with, yet also offers the versatility of variable focus when needed.
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FUNCTION:
InfiniMite¡¯s Focusing Ring activates focus. Power Module Amplifiers
can be mounted to step-up magnification by 2x (one DL or lockable
LDL Tube). Another unique design feature is that several frontal
accessories are available to mount ring lights of various diameters
directly to InfiniMite. Since the front objective is recessed, its
elongated outer mount serves as a built-in lens shade. By using
an optional retaining ring, the lens shade can be used to mount
25mm diameter optical filters.
The Dynamic Focusing System (DFS)
A patented internal focusing system has been developed for InfiniMite.
As the world leader in internally focused optical instruments, Infinity
Photo-Optical Company has developed a lens (as opposed to a full-fledged
instrument) which is application-specific. Infinity¡¯s other (instrument)
products incorporate patented afocally-variable focusing systems?AVS
and InFocus?which allow many different configurations for successively
different uses and applications. DFS is also a variating system,
but is simplified by combining and subsuming the variating principle
into the image-forming optics. This results in a less costly optical
design, allowing the InfiniMite to be priced substantially lower
than our comprehensive instruments. Within its application "envelope,"
InfiniMite offers optical performance comparable to systems costing
many times more, yet it provides new capabilities and conveniences
due to its revolutionary concept and design.
Another feature of DFS is its "self-defining" aperture
system. As focus is determined, so is the best overall aperture.
Automatically, InfiniMite "finds" its optimum imaging
potential. As a result the typical iris diaphragm has been dispensed
with.
Formats
InfiniMite can be used with all C-mount and CS-mount video cameras.
If used with CS-mount cameras, a C5 Spacer should be added to compensate
for InfiniMite¡¯s standard C-mount back focal distance. InfiniMite
covers all 1/2-in. and smaller-sensored cameras (1x to 4x amplification).
When used with 2/3-in., and larger formats, at least one DL or LDL
Tube (or LDL 4x Tube) should always be in-system. InfiniMite then
functions from 2x and 4x. InfiniMite was not designed for 35mm (T2
mount) or special bayonet formats. For such use, our larger, more
adaptable instruments (such as InfiniMini, Model KC and Model K2)
are required.
Engraved Scales
InfiniMite has two scales engraved above the Focusing Ring. The
first, which has a sloped line, indicates that magnification increases
as working distance decreases. When the CFM attachment is used the
scale indicates the progression from infinity down to 10mm. The
second scale indicates the infinity focus. It is at this position
that the IF and LWD Objectives should first be focused for optimal
results. When the RA/Standard and RA/IF Converters are used one
of the locking set-screws can be used to reference the dot on the
fluted focusing ring.
Reference Series Focus-lock
InfiniMite Reference contains an integral Focus-lock that operates
as a friction brake. The Focus-lock is activated by loosening the
three set-screws on the Lock Ring and the single set-screw on the
tube above it. Then, by holding both the engraved scaled Lock Ring
and fluted Focusing Ring, turn counterclockwise up tight against
the tube above it. To set the lock, retighten the set-screws located
on the Lock Ring the set-screw on the tube above it. Reverse the
procedure to unlock. This procedure also allows the user to select
the amount of rotational tension for focusing.
Accessories
Besides Power Module Amplifier Tubes for altering magnification
by 2x, InfiniMite accepts various frontal adapters for direct connection
of ring light illuminators. An Extender permits 30mm and larger
ring lights to be mounted, and also serves as a 25mm diameter filter
holder. Other adapters for 21, 28mm and 66mm ring lights are also
available. The Extender accepts an optional C-Clamp for special
mounting requirements. The C-Clamp can also be used atop InfiniMite.
The 21mm Fiber Optic Ring Light Adapter is a plastic probe which
acts as a variable condenser when a 21mm ring light is moved up-and-down
its shaft. This results in a continuous transition from brightfield
to darkfield and assists edge detection in many objects which would
otherwise defy being easily measured.
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