Large-area, ultra-lightweight MWIR flat lenses with extended depth-offocus
Abstract
Executive Summary: The weight of conventional refractive optics used in cameras can be too high. Multiple refractive lenses are requ,ired to correct for image aberrations (including chromatic and off-axis aberrations). We propose to develop flat lenses for the MWIR, wavelengths that are at least an order of magnitude lighter than their refractive counterparts. In addition, we propose to enhance, the depth of focus at f/1, which has not been attempted before. During this project, we will not only create proof-of-concept proto,types, but also design methodologies and theoretical advancements underlying the same. Relevance to the Navy: Compact, lightweight, and cost-effective imaging solutions in the MWIR are critical for shipboard situational awareness. Weight is critical to ensure fas,t aiming and stabilization. Small, unmanned and airborne systems are also clearly affected by weight. Our proposal aims to reduce th,e weight of the optics in such cameras by at least 10X. An additional advantage of our optics is their cost effectiveness. Shipboard, cameras are difficult to repair, so potentially expendable cameras are attractive. In the future, it will be possible to manufactur,e our optics using low-cost nanoimprint lithography to enable reduction in cost. Objectives: In this 2-year research project, we hav,e3 main objectives: (i)Use a combination of theory and numerical experiments to validate the feasibility of large aperture (up to 10,0mm diameter), fast (f/1) single and multi-wavelength MWIR (3 to 5m) flat lenses with weight at least 10X lower than that of their, refractive counterparts. (ii)Fabricate and characterize proof-of-concept prototype flat lenses. (iii)Demonstrate using simulations, and preliminary experiments an extension of the depth of focus compared to the diffraction limit.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Dec 10, 2021
- Source ID
- N000142212014
Entities
People
- Rajesh Menon
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Utah