Spectral properties of multiorder diffractive lenses.

Area of Science:

• Optics
• Optical Engineering
• Diffractive Optics

Background:

• Traditional diffractive lenses are designed for the first diffracted order.
• Operating diffractive lenses in higher orders reveals distinct spectral characteristics.
• This presents limitations for broadband and multispectral optical system designs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of multiorder diffractive lenses in optical system design.
• To demonstrate the feasibility of designing achromatic and apochromatic singlets using higher diffraction orders.
• To analyze the performance of multiorder diffractive lenses in broadband and multispectral applications.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical derivation of the wavelength-dependent optical transfer function (OTF) for multiorder diffractive lenses.
• Calculation of the associated Strehl ratio to evaluate lens performance.
• Experimental validation of lens performance in two distinct spectral bands.

Main Results:

• Surface-relief diffractive lenses can be optimized ('blazed') for higher diffraction orders.
• This optimization enables the creation of achromatic and apochromatic singlet lenses.
• Experimental results show excellent agreement with theoretical predictions for lens performance.

Conclusions:

• Multiorder diffractive lenses provide enhanced design flexibility for optical systems.
• The ability to blaze lenses for higher orders is key to achieving chromatic correction.
• This approach is promising for developing advanced broadband and multispectral optical elements.