Imaging Optimization

Imaging optimization is a critical process in the development of optical systems, aimed at achieving the best possible performance - no matter how it is defined.

Optimization involves adjusting various parameters of the lens elements to meet specific criteria, such as minimizing aberrations, achieving a desired field of view, or optimizing image quality across a range of conditions.

Key Considerations in Imaging Optimization

1. Performance Goals: Define what "optimal" means for the specific application, including resolution, field of view, and light throughput. This is defined through Metrics (also commonly known as operands).

2. Material Selection: Different glass materials have unique refractive indices and dispersion properties, impacting the lens design.

3. Geometrical Parameters: The arrangement and shape of the lens elements drastically affect the performance and feasibility of the optical system.

4. Tolerancing : Understand how manufacturing tolerances can impact the optical performance and adjust the design accordingly. This is crucially important to keep in mind while optimizing a system to provide designs which can be "easily" produced.

KostaCLOUD Imaging Metrics

In KostaCLOUD, imaging optimization metrics are broken up into several distinct groups, which each have particular assumptions associated with them. You can find details by clicking on the cards below.

Paraxial Metrics

EFL, Invariant, BFD, Magnification, etc.

3rd Order Metrics

Coma, Spherical, and Petzval coefficients, etc.

Real Ray Metrics

RMS Spot Size, Ray Angle, Axial Color, etc.

Wave Metrics

MTF, Wavefront Error, Encircled Energy, etc.

System Metrics

Optical Track, Edge Thickness, etc.

Tolerancing Metrics

Compensators, Sensitivities, and solves.