Feature

Gradient-Index optical imaging systems

Susan Houde-Walter

Gradient-Index (GRIN) optics is a relatively new technology in optical imaging systems. The idea is to introduce additional degrees of freedom into a lens design by varying the refractive index inside a lens element. If the new degrees of freedom are effective at correcting aberrations, one can generally improve the system performance over the equivalent homogeneous system using the same number of elements. Alternatively, one may reduce the number of elements required to meet fixed performance criteria.

Publish Date: 01 June 1988