Practical method for evaluating optical image defects caused by center artifacts

Abstract

In modern optical element manufacturing, center artifacts are a common problem. A center artifact is a shape error that is rotationally symmetrical, steep, and localized at the center. These properties cause characteristic image defects different from those caused by ordinary irregularities. However, tolerancing center artifacts has not been fully discussed or properly carried out. We propose a simple mathematical model for center artifacts using normal distribution function as a figure model and showing that this function can be represented by a polynomial including odd-order terms. Our method enables appropriate optical simulation and tolerancing for center artifacts using general optical design software. © The Authors. Published by SPIE under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. Distribution or reproduction of this work in whole or in part requires full attribution of the original publication, including its DOI.