Phase function design of a diffraction grating lens for an optical imaging system from a Fraunhofer diffraction...

Area of Science:

• Optics
• Optical Engineering
• Imaging Systems

Background:

• Diffraction gratings offer potential for enhancing camera resolution and reducing optical system length.
• A novel phenomenon of striped flare lights, distinct from standard diffraction orders, has been observed under intense illumination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the generation principle of the newly identified striped flare lights.
• To propose and validate a method for minimizing these flare lights in optical imaging systems.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of striped flare light generation based on Fraunhofer diffraction principles.
• Design of an appropriate phase function structure for diffraction gratings.
• Manufacturing and testing of a prototype diffraction grating with the designed phase structure.

Main Results:

• The generation principle of striped flare lights was successfully elucidated.
• The striped flare lights were identified as originating from narrow diffraction grating rings.
• A design strategy to minimize these flare lights was proposed and validated through prototype testing.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a fundamental understanding of striped flare light generation in optical systems utilizing diffraction gratings.
• The proposed design approach offers a practical solution for mitigating flare light artifacts, improving imaging quality.
• Further development of diffraction grating phase function design can enhance optical imaging system performance.