Light sensing detector assembly with integral fiber optic light transmission elements

Abstract

In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a light sensing detector assembly (10) having integral fiber optic light transmission strands (16) is provided. The light sensing detector assembly (10) includes a quadrant detector (12) having a plurality of apertures (14) extending therethrough and a photosensitive surface (20) that generates photocurrents in response to exposure to light. The plurality of fiber optic strands (16) each have a first end (18) and a second end (22). The first ends (18) extend through the plurality of apertures (14) and outwardly from the photosensitive surface (20). A light source (26) projects light onto the second ends (22) of the plurality of fiber optic strands (16) such that the light is transmitted through the plurality of fiber optic strands (16) towards a reflective workpiece (50). The light reflected from the workpiece (50) in turn impinges upon the photosensitive surface (20).

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.