Multi-Region Imaging Systems

In an imaging system including imaging optics and a sensor array, an improvement comprising:

• an OPD-modifying element disposed within the imaging system and intersecting at least a portion of electromagnetic energy incident on the sensor array, such that the optical element cooperates with the imaging optics and the sensor array to form a first image portion and a second image portion from the electromagnetic energy, the first image portion being in focus over a first conjugate distance range and the second image portion being in focus over a second conjugate distance range, the two conjugate distance ranges being separated by at least 40 cm.

In a method of imaging utilizing imaging optics and a sensor array, an improvement comprising:

• configuring the imaging optics such that electromagnetic energy transmitted through the imaging optics and incident on the sensor array forms an image that is in focus over at least two conjugate distance ranges for two respective portions of the image, the two conjugate distance ranges being separated by at least 40 cm.