Achrotech: achromat cost versus performance for conventional, diffractive and GRIN components

摘要

An achromatic component shares a common focus at two wavelengths and is a commonly used device in optical assemblies. This work explores the cost versus performance tradeoff for several types of achromatic lenses: conventional doublets with homogenous glass elements, hybrid doublets with a diffractive surface, axial GRadient IN-dex (GRIN) lenses (where the index of refraction changes along the length of the lens), and radial GRIN lenses (where the index of refraction changes depending on radial position). First order achromatic principles will be reviewed and applied to each system as a starting point and refined through the use of ray trace s oftware. Optical performance will be assessed in terms of focusing efficiency and i maging. Cost will then be evaluated by accounting for current manufacturing costs and retail price through several distributors.