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Robert McLeod
This course can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5602, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree.
Read more
This course can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5602, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree.
Read more
This course can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA 5602, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree.
Optical instruments are how we see the world, from corrective eyewear to medical endoscopes to cell phone cameras to orbiting telescopes. This course extends what you have learned about first-order, paraxial system design and optical resolution and efficiency with the introduction to real lenses and their imperfections. We begin with a description of how different wavelengths propagate through systems, then move on to aberrations that appear with high angle, non-paraxial systems and how to correct for those problems. The course wraps up with a discussion of optical components beyond lenses and an excellent example of a high-performance optical system – the human eye. The mathematical tools required for analysis of high-performance systems are complicated enough that this course will rely more heavily on OpticStudio by Zemax. This will allow students to analyze systems that are too complicated for the simple analysis thus far introduced in this set of courses.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/nxt03m/design
What's inside
Syllabus
Chromatic Aberrations
We now move away from the first order approximations and into real lenses and imperfect optical systems. We begin with a description of how different wavelengths propagate through systems.
Read more
Syllabus
Chromatic Aberrations
We now move away from the first order approximations and into real lenses and imperfect optical systems. We begin with a description of how different wavelengths propagate through systems.
Read more
Ray Aberrations
This module introduces the many types and causes of monochromatic imperfections in optical systems. We begin with the mathematical background of the causes of aberrations, then introduce a number of common aberrations so that you may recognize them in your own systems.
Field Curvature and Distortion
This module continues to discuss monochromatic imperfections in optical systems. We introduce field curvature and distortion so that you may recognize them in your own systems and then summarize the causes and effects of 3rd order aberrations along with the mathematical tools to describe them.
Techniques for Reduction of Aberrations
The previous three modules have discussed the various types of aberrations you will find in your optical systems. We now move to how to design a system that limits those aberrations.
Optical Components
In this last module before the capstone, we change gears from aberrations, and discuss a number of other optical elements that are usual in systems other than lenses. We cover light shaping with prisms, GRIN lenses, diffractive optics such as diffraction gratings and Fresnel lenses. Then we finish with an important optical element to all of us - the human eye. This module covers a lot of material and may take you a bit longer than the others.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Strengthens an existing foundation for intermediate learners through discussion of aberration types and causes
Examines monochromatic imperfections in optical systems, which is standard in optical design and manufacture
Explores real lenses and their imperfections, which is core for optical system design and manufacture
Covers light shaping with prisms, GRIN lenses, diffractive optics such as diffraction gratings and Fresnel lenses, which is helpful for learners interested in optical design
Teaches how to reduce aberrations, which is core for optical system design and manufacture
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Reviews summary
Highly rated optics course
Learners say that Design of High-Performance Optical Systems is a wonderful, very good, and great course. The practical and informative course provides a very good overview with all the necessary information to design real world optical systems and build a foundation for a new job. While the trial version of Zemax may be annoying, reviewers still highly recommend this well put together course.
Crystal Clear Presentation
"professor McLeod's presentation is crystal clear"
"prof. Sullivan's experimental demonstration is also very illustrative"
"The proff has not done a good job at all. He seemed bored"
Practical and Informative
"Practical and highly informative engineering course."
"A very good overview with all the necessary information."
May Not Be Easy for Everyone
"The course would have been better."
"He seemed bored to explain and to him the course might have been easy and trivial but that doesn't mean it is easy for everyone else"
Annoying Trial Version
"poor discussion forum management and unfriendly environment of the trial version Zemax"
"Trial version Zemax lacks of save function, and it is really annoying when you need to manually input all of your design parameters every time."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Design of High-Performance Optical Systems with these
activities:
Attend an optical engineering conference
Show steps
Network with professionals in the field and learn about the latest advancements in optical engineering.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
-
Identify and register for an upcoming optical engineering conference
-
Attend the conference sessions and presentations
-
Network with attendees, including researchers, industry professionals, and potential employers
-
Follow up with connections made at the conference
Review of basic optics
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of basic optics concepts to provide a solid foundation for this course.
Browse courses on
Geometrical Optics
Show steps
-
Refer to textbooks or online resources to review the principles of light propagation and image formation
-
Solve practice problems to test your understanding of basic optics
Zemax OpticStudio tutorial
Show steps
Use Zemax OpticStudio to analyze optical systems for monochromatic and chromatic aberrations.
Browse courses on
OpticStudio
Show steps
-
Find and access the Zemax OpticStudio tutorial
-
Follow the tutorial steps to create a basic optical system
-
Analyze the system for monochromatic and chromatic aberrations using the built-in tools
-
Modify the system parameters to reduce aberrations and optimize image quality
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Chromatic aberration simulation
Show steps
Run simulations to visualize how different wavelengths affect image quality.
Show steps
-
Choose a simulation software appropriate for optical engineering
-
Set up the simulation parameters, including the wavelength range and lens characteristics
-
Run the simulation and observe the resulting image
-
Analyze the simulation results to identify the effects of chromatic aberration on image quality
Discussion on optical aberrations in real-world applications
Show steps
Engage in discussions to explore how optical aberrations manifest in real-world applications.
Show steps
-
Identify real-world applications where optical aberrations are encountered
-
Research and present on the specific aberrations that occur in those applications
-
Discuss the consequences and potential solutions for these aberrations
Presentation on aberration correction techniques
Show steps
Research and present on different techniques used to correct for optical aberrations.
Show steps
-
Gather information from textbooks, research papers, and online resources
-
Summarize the different aberration correction techniques and their applications
-
Create a presentation that clearly explains the techniques and their pros and cons
-
Present the findings to the class or a group of peers
Design an optical system with minimal aberrations
Show steps
Apply the concepts of aberration correction to design an optical system with desired performance characteristics.
Browse courses on
Optical Design
Show steps
-
Define the system requirements, including the desired image quality and field of view
-
Select appropriate lens elements and arrange them in a configuration that minimizes aberrations
-
Use optical simulation software to analyze the system performance and identify any remaining aberrations
-
Iterate on the design to further reduce aberrations and optimize image quality
Attend an optical engineering conference
Show steps
Network with professionals in the field and learn about the latest advancements in optical engineering.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and register for an upcoming optical engineering conference
- Attend the conference sessions and presentations
- Network with attendees, including researchers, industry professionals, and potential employers
- Follow up with connections made at the conference
Review of basic optics
Show steps
Refresh your understanding of basic optics concepts to provide a solid foundation for this course.
Browse courses on
Geometrical Optics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Refer to textbooks or online resources to review the principles of light propagation and image formation
- Solve practice problems to test your understanding of basic optics
Zemax OpticStudio tutorial
Show steps
Use Zemax OpticStudio to analyze optical systems for monochromatic and chromatic aberrations.
Browse courses on
OpticStudio
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find and access the Zemax OpticStudio tutorial
- Follow the tutorial steps to create a basic optical system
- Analyze the system for monochromatic and chromatic aberrations using the built-in tools
- Modify the system parameters to reduce aberrations and optimize image quality
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Chromatic aberration simulation
Show steps
Run simulations to visualize how different wavelengths affect image quality.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a simulation software appropriate for optical engineering
- Set up the simulation parameters, including the wavelength range and lens characteristics
- Run the simulation and observe the resulting image
- Analyze the simulation results to identify the effects of chromatic aberration on image quality
Discussion on optical aberrations in real-world applications
Show steps
Engage in discussions to explore how optical aberrations manifest in real-world applications.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify real-world applications where optical aberrations are encountered
- Research and present on the specific aberrations that occur in those applications
- Discuss the consequences and potential solutions for these aberrations
Presentation on aberration correction techniques
Show steps
Research and present on different techniques used to correct for optical aberrations.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather information from textbooks, research papers, and online resources
- Summarize the different aberration correction techniques and their applications
- Create a presentation that clearly explains the techniques and their pros and cons
- Present the findings to the class or a group of peers
Design an optical system with minimal aberrations
Show steps
Apply the concepts of aberration correction to design an optical system with desired performance characteristics.
Browse courses on
Optical Design
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Define the system requirements, including the desired image quality and field of view
- Select appropriate lens elements and arrange them in a configuration that minimizes aberrations
- Use optical simulation software to analyze the system performance and identify any remaining aberrations
- Iterate on the design to further reduce aberrations and optimize image quality
Career center
Learners who complete Design of High-Performance Optical Systems will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Optical Engineer
Optical Engineer
Optical Engineers are responsible for the design, development, testing, and evaluation of optical systems. They use their knowledge of optics to create systems that meet specific requirements, such as imaging, illumination, or lasers. This course would be helpful for Optical Engineers because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations. Also, It is an excellent example of a high-performance optical system – the human eye.
Lens Designer
Lens Designer
Lens Designers are responsible for the design and development of lenses for a variety of applications, such as cameras, telescopes, and microscopes. They use their knowledge of optics to create lenses that meet specific requirements, such as image quality, focal length, and aperture. This course would be helpful for Lens Designers because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
Optical Technician
Optical Technician
Optical Technicians are responsible for the assembly, testing, and maintenance of optical systems. They use their knowledge of optics to ensure that systems meet specifications and perform as expected. This course would be helpful for Optical Technicians because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
Imaging Scientist
Imaging Scientist
Imaging Scientists are responsible for the development and application of imaging technologies. They use their knowledge of optics, physics, and computer science to create imaging systems that meet specific requirements, such as resolution, sensitivity, and speed. This course would be helpful for Imaging Scientists because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
Optical Systems Engineer
Optical Systems Engineer
Optical Systems Engineers are responsible for the design, development, and integration of optical systems. They use their knowledge of optics, engineering, and computer science to create systems that meet specific requirements, such as performance, cost, and reliability. This course would be helpful for Optical Systems Engineers because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
Laser Engineer
Laser Engineer
Laser Engineers are responsible for the design, development, and application of lasers. They use their knowledge of optics, physics, and engineering to create lasers that meet specific requirements, such as power, wavelength, and beam quality. This course may be helpful for Laser Engineers because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
Photonics Engineer
Photonics Engineer
Photonics Engineers are responsible for the design, development, and application of photonic devices and systems. They use their knowledge of optics, physics, and engineering to create devices and systems that meet specific requirements, such as performance, cost, and reliability. This course may be helpful for Photonics Engineers because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
Optometrist
Optometrist
Optometrists are responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of vision problems. They use their knowledge of optics and vision science to prescribe corrective lenses and other treatments. This course may be helpful for Optometrists because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
Ophthalmologist
Ophthalmologist
Ophthalmologists are responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases. They use their knowledge of optics and medicine to provide a wide range of treatments, including surgery. This course may be helpful for Ophthalmologists because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
Physicist
Physicist
Physicists are responsible for the study of the fundamental laws of nature. They use their knowledge of physics to develop new theories and technologies. This course may be helpful for Physicists because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
Engineer
Engineer
Engineers are responsible for the design, development, and construction of a wide range of products and systems. They use their knowledge of science and engineering to create solutions to real-world problems. This course may be helpful for Engineers because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
Mathematician
Mathematician
Mathematicians are responsible for the development and application of mathematical theories and techniques. They use their knowledge of mathematics to solve problems in a wide range of fields, including science, engineering, and business. This course may be helpful for Mathematicians because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists are responsible for the design, development, and implementation of computer systems and software. They use their knowledge of computer science to create solutions to real-world problems. This course may be helpful for Computer Scientists because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
Biologist
Biologist
Biologists are responsible for the study of living organisms. They use their knowledge of biology to understand the structure, function, and behavior of living things. This course may be helpful for Biologists because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
Chemist
Chemist
Chemists are responsible for the study of the composition, structure, and properties of matter. They use their knowledge of chemistry to develop new materials and technologies. This course may be helpful for Chemists because it provides a foundation in the principles of optical system design. The course covers topics such as chromatic aberrations, ray aberrations, field curvature and distortion, and techniques for reduction of aberrations.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nxt03m/design
Reading list
We've selected 13 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Design of High-Performance Optical Systems.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of optical engineering. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a broad understanding of the field.
Save
This classic textbook provides a comprehensive and rigorous treatment of the fundamental principles of optics. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a deep understanding of the field of optics.
Provides a comprehensive and rigorous treatment of the fundamental principles of geometrical and physical optics. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a deep understanding of the field of optics.
Provides a comprehensive and rigorous treatment of the fundamental principles of aberrations in optical systems. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a deep understanding of the field of optics.
This textbook provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field of photonics. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a broad understanding of the field.
This textbook provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field of nonlinear optics. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a broad understanding of the field.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field of lasers. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a broad understanding of the field.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field of optical fiber communications. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a broad understanding of the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles of optics, including ray tracing, wave optics, and optical instruments. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a deeper understanding of the field of optics.
This textbook provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field of optoelectronic devices. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a broad understanding of the field.
This textbook provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field of optics. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a broad understanding of the field.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field of photonics. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a broad understanding of the field.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field of Fourier optics. It valuable resource for students and professionals who want to gain a broad understanding of the field.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/nxt03m/design
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Effort
6 weeks of study, 4 - 6 hours/week
Level
Advanced
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
Robert McLeod
Language
English
Transcripts
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Optical Engineering. It's comprised of three courses:
- First Order Optical System Design
- Optical Efficiency and Resolution
- Design of High-Performance Optical Systems (viewing)
Good to know
Strengthens an existing foundation for intermediate learners through discussion of aberration types and causes
Examines monochromatic imperfections in optical systems, which is standard in optical design and manufacture
Explores real lenses and their imperfections, which is core for optical system design and manufacture
Covers light shaping with prisms, GRIN lenses, diffractive optics such as diffraction gratings and Fresnel lenses, which is helpful for learners interested in optical design
Teaches how to reduce aberrations, which is core for optical system design and manufacture
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