Comparison of optical design methods of freeform surfaces for imaging applications

Tibor Agócs

doi:10.1117/12.2191367

23 September 2015 Comparison of optical design methods of freeform surfaces for imaging applications

Tibor Agócs

Proceedings Volume 9626, Optical Systems Design 2015: Optical Design and Engineering VI; 962637 (2015) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2191367
Event: SPIE Optical Systems Design, 2015, Jena, Germany

Abstract

Optical systems based on freeform optical components offer many advantages over conventional systems in imaging applications, e.g. superior image quality, compact and lightweight designs. There are a few well established manufacturing method that can be used for the generation of freeform surfaces with low surface form error and low surface roughness, in the case of freeform mirrors e.g. diamond turning, nickel plating and post-polishing. Metrology is evolving rapidly, although developments are still needed in order to verify the manufactured surface with the necessary accuracy. Optical design methods of freeform surfaces are also lagging behind, many algorithms address non-imaging applications, but in the field of imaging (image-forming) only a few exists and works with various limitations. We compare the available techniques in freeform optical design for imaging and explore the advantages, disadvantages and boundary conditions of the different methods. We also intend to identify the most useful concepts and investigate how they can be embedded into commercially available optical design software.

Citation Download Citation

Tibor Agócs "Comparison of optical design methods of freeform surfaces for imaging applications", Proc. SPIE 9626, Optical Systems Design 2015: Optical Design and Engineering VI, 962637 (23 September 2015); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2191367

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