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Full-field point-by-point direct design method of off-axis aspheric imaging systems
Optics Express
|January 7, 2017
Summary
A new point-by-point design method enables precise full-field, full-aperture design for off-axis aspheric systems. This iterative approach integrates surface fitting during calculations for accurate optical system development.
Area of Science:
- Optical Engineering
- System Design
Background:
- Existing design methods for off-axis aspheric systems often lack precision across the full field and aperture.
- There is a critical need for robust, point-by-point design methodologies for complex optical systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a general, full-field, point-by-point design method for off-axis aspheric optical systems.
- To demonstrate the method's capability in designing complex reflective systems with specific performance parameters.
Main Methods:
- A novel iterative approach where data point calculations and aspheric surface fitting are continuously repeated.
- Consideration of light rays from diverse field angles and aperture coordinates.
- Inclusion of both coordinate and surface normal deviations during the fitting process.
Main Results:
- Successful design of an example off-axis three-mirror reflective system with F/2.4, 100-mm entrance pupil diameter, and a 3° × 6° field of view.
- The method's effectiveness in handling the complexities of off-axis aspheric surface generation.
Conclusions:
- The presented point-by-point method provides a general and effective solution for designing off-axis aspheric systems.
- The methodology is adaptable for designing co-axial aspheric systems and novel optical structures.

