Device and method for attenuating a low-level light source over a very wide dynamic range

Abstract

A device and method for attenuating a low-level light source over a very wide dynamic range is disclosed. The device comprises a light source, a plurality of fiber optic means, a plurality of opaque tubes, and a specifically designed block with a light tight chamber and a plurality of output apertures connected to the chamber through drilled tunnels. The fiber optic means are inserted into the tunnels connecting the light tight chamber and the output apertures, so the end of the fiber optic means are visible through the output apertures, while the long part of the fiber optic means are exposed to the light source in the chamber. The opaque tubes are inserted over the fiber optic means to control the amount of light allowed to hit the fiber optic means. The amount of light collected by the fiber optic means can be adjusted by moving the opaque tube sleeve so as to cover part of the fiber optic means. The light emitted at the end of the fiber optic means, visible through the output apertures, are approximately proportional to the light collected along the exposed length.

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