Lens Design: Considerations for Lens Maker

[Gogsey]

What considerations would a lens maker need to take into account when designing a lens?

So on top of the chromatic aberrations, glass type and focal length, I have:

Lens Thickness
Magnification
Resolving Power
Radius of Curvature
Shape(ie cylindrical, spherical, plane)
Type(ie convex, concave, dichromatic, achromatic)
Multi-layered lens
Other types of aberrations.

Is there any of these that are not required, or any that I've missed?

Thanks

 

[berkeman]

What considerations would a lens maker need to take into account when designing a lens?

So on top of the chromatic aberrations, glass type and focal length, I have:

Lens Thickness
Magnification
Resolving Power
Radius of Curvature
Shape(ie cylindrical, spherical, plane)
Type(ie convex, concave, dichromatic, achromatic)
Multi-layered lens
Other types of aberrations.

Is there any of these that are not required, or any that I've missed?

Thanks

Coatings

 

[Holmz]

And...
1) scattering of light by the lens surfaces
2) bouncing around within the lens
3) light coming in at oblique angles and hitting the tube holding the lens(es).

#1 & #2 are influenced by the coatings.

Also if the focal plan is flat or not flat,
Where the lens is designed to be focused (infinity or closer)
The wavelengths that are to be passed through.

Probably more.

 

[dlgoff]

Just to add a twist on lenses; metamaterials can be used.

It doesn’t look like a lens; it looks more like a tiny set of Venetian blinds. It’s not even made of traditional lens materials such as highly polished glass or plastic. But a new generation of lenses has the potential to make big changes in radar and telecom systems by offering greater detail and a wide field of view, according to engineers from Duke University.

http://www.photonics.com/Article.aspx?AID=41009"

 

[alphy]

for your question. I would like to provide a comprehensive response to your query regarding lens design considerations. In addition to the factors you have mentioned, there are a few other important considerations that a lens maker needs to take into account.

1. Lens Thickness: The thickness of the lens is an important factor that affects its performance. A thicker lens can reduce certain types of aberrations but can also lead to increased weight and cost. On the other hand, a thinner lens may be more prone to distortion and may require additional support structures.

2. Magnification: The desired magnification or image size also plays a crucial role in lens design. This determines the required focal length and curvature of the lens.

3. Resolving Power: The resolving power of a lens refers to its ability to distinguish fine details in an image. This is influenced by factors such as the lens material, surface quality, and design.

4. Radius of Curvature: The curvature of a lens surface affects its ability to focus light rays and thus, the image quality. A larger radius of curvature can reduce aberrations but may also result in a bulkier lens.

5. Shape and Type: As you mentioned, the shape and type of lens, such as convex, concave, dichromatic, or achromatic, are important considerations that determine the behavior of light passing through the lens.

6. Multi-layered Lens: In some cases, a lens may require multiple layers of different materials to achieve the desired optical properties. This adds complexity to the design and manufacturing process.

7. Other types of aberrations: Apart from chromatic aberrations, there are various other types of aberrations that can affect lens performance, such as spherical aberration, coma, and astigmatism. These must be carefully considered and minimized in the lens design.

In conclusion, all the factors you have mentioned, along with the ones I have added, are crucial considerations for a lens maker when designing a lens. Each of these factors must be carefully balanced to achieve the desired optical performance while also considering practical constraints such as cost and weight. I hope this helps clarify your question and provides a better understanding of the complexity involved in lens design.