A miniaturized design method for refractive optical systems based on the improved ray tracing model

Abstract

With the rapid development of optical imaging systems, more stringent requirements for the structural size and image performance have been proposed of these systems. Balancing the structural size and image performance of refractive optical systems has become a challenge in the field of optical design. In this study, we proposed a miniaturized design method for refractive optical systems. First, we established the axial length model of multiple refractive spherical systems based on the improved ray tracing model, and constructed the axial length constraint function. The constraint function was then applied to the design process of four different types of refractive optical systems. The results of comparison with the existing method showed that this design method could further satisfy the requirement of compactness of optical systems on the basis of ensuring image performance. The validity and applicability of this method were also verified. In this study, the ray tracing model for refractive systems was improved and simplified. We used fewer optical parameters to define the axial length of refractive optical systems, which reduced the nonlinear degree of the axial length equation and the complexity of the axial length calculation. Through this study, refractive systems with good image performance and more compact structure can be obtained, which can provide a theoretical basis for the design of compact refractive optical systems.