Business Combinations and Investments, Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 02, 2011
Unaudited pro forma financial information
Net sales	$ 1,491.5	[1]
Net income from continuing operations	96.7	[1]
Net income attributable to Teledyne	$ 209.8	[1]
Basic earnings per common share - continuing operations	$ 2.64	[1]
Basic earnings per common share - attributable to Teledyne	$ 5.73	[1]
Diluted earnings per common share - continuing operations	$ 2.59	[1]
Diluted earnings per common share - attributable to Teledyne	$ 5.62	[1]

[1] The above unaudited proforma information is presented for the DALSA acquisition as it is considered a material acquisition.