Abstract
Scattering effects from residual optical fabrication errors limit the optical performance of many imaging systems. Residual surface roughness over a broad range of relevant spatial frequencies must be specified and controlled for many applications of interest. Wide-angle scatter from surface microroughness severely reduces contrast in extended images. However, small-angle scatter from `mid' spatial frequency surface irregularities that span the gap between the `figure' and `finish' errors will degrade the achievable resolution. Specifying the traditional surface `figure' and `finish' is thus inadequate for high resolution imaging systems or for optical elements fabricated by new automated optical manufacturing processes. A linear systems treatment of surface scatter theory will be presented and its implementation in a computer code for modeling the image degradation effects of residual surface irregularities over the entire range of relevant spatial frequencies will be demonstrated. Parametric performance predictions can then be used to determine realistic optical fabrication tolerances for a variety of applications.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
