This book covers all aspects of the design of diffractive lens systems, and is an essential reference for incorporating diffractive optical elements into imaging systems for the correction of aberrations. Topics include paraxial imaging theory, aberration theory, ray tracing, image formation theory, tolerancing, image quality modelling by scalar diffraction theory and diffractive lens design in commercial lens design software. Design examples are used to illustrate key aspects of the design processes, and electronic files for modelling tools (e.g. in MATLAB) and lens design examples (e.g. in CodeV) are also included.

The book identifies all the questions a lens designer should be asking when considering the incorporation of diffractive surfaces into an optical system and attempt to answer as many as possible. The aim is to make the tools available for sound engineering judgements by the reader. A key aspect is the consideration of diffraction efficiency, its impact on optical performance and how surface structures may be designed to optimise it. The book is a valuable reference text in optical engineering and related courses at the master’s level and above.