Economic tolerance analysis of optical systems based on distortion

Area of Science:

• Optical Engineering
• Optical Design
• Image Quality Assessment

Background:

• Tolerance allocation in optical design aims to meet image quality standards while minimizing manufacturing costs.
• Existing methods may be data-intensive or lack precision in relating tolerances to performance.
• Distortion is a critical image quality metric influenced by optical system parameters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel calculation method for tolerance allocation in optical design.
• To reduce data storage requirements and accurately model the tolerance-image quality relationship.
• To utilize distortion as the primary performance criterion and incorporate decenter and tilt parameters.

Main Methods:

• Developing a calculation method to fit the function between tolerance and image quality.
• Deriving differential formulas for distortion with respect to decenter and tilt structural parameters.
• Applying the method to an example case for validation.

Main Results:

• The proposed method effectively reduces data storage.
• The approach accurately fits the functional relationship between tolerance and image quality.
• Differential formulas for distortion concerning decenter and tilt were successfully derived and applied.
• Demonstrated feasibility and flexibility in balancing image quality and machining cost.

Conclusions:

• The developed method provides an efficient way to achieve a balance between optical image quality and machining costs.
• This approach enhances tolerance analysis by accurately modeling distortion and incorporating key structural parameters.
• The technique offers a practical solution for optical designers seeking cost-effective designs without compromising performance.