Design decisions for today’s complex systems require insights that are traditionally obtained from make and break testing when critical design decisions need to be made. With ever-increasing complexity, a more streamlined workflow that involves multiphysics simulation is essential. This transition is exemplified in polarization-dependent optical systems that are becoming prevalent in AR/VR where stress birefringence can negatively affect the performance of the optical design. To quantify this effect, we have developed a method that utilizes non-uniform stress data from finite element analysis in conjunction with non-uniform gradient index ray tracing to calculate the polarization and wavefront error as part of a wholistic multiphysics simulation analysis. Practical examples will be used to demonstrate the workflow and to analysis the impact of stress birefringence.
Stress birefringence may lead to appreciable wavefront and polarization errors, especially in polarization sensitive systems. The effect is becoming increasingly important, as complex polarization-dependent and polymer-based optical systems become more prevalent, impacting imaging quality in systems such as Augmented and Virtual Reality. Advancements in multiphysics simulation, including the combination of Finite Element Analysis and optical simulation, enable optical designers to simulate and assess the effect of stress birefringence in the final performance of the optical system. We have developed a simulation method that combines 3D fitting of FEA non-uniform stress data with non-uniform gradient index ray tracing, calculating the polarization and wavefront error from the propagation of the wavefront through the system. We demonstrate the model with practical examples, in which we analyze the impact of stress birefringence on the polarization and image quality. The robustness of the technology is demonstrated with different types of stress data and optical systems.
The merit function defines the permissible range of component variable values in optimizing lens systems. This ensures the optimization algorithm explores parameter variations within specified bounds, contributing to the generation of feasible designs. In this study, we introduce an approach to identify the optimization-sensitive surface parameters of a relay lens through the utilization of the multi-configuration composite feature. The parameter variations sensitivity is analyzed by employing the Zernike Standard Sag Surface as an add-on composite surface, with a perturbation pattern of spherical aberration irregularity across multiple configurations preceding each lens surface within the Zemax lens data editor. The primary performance degradation impact on surface parameters is identified by examining the image spot dimension charts. In light of the analysis results, rigorous constraints are imposed on the sensitive component. A suitable variable range is defined to establish practical limits, aiding the algorithm in searching for solutions within the feasible parameter space. This ensures optimized designs that are physically realizable and meet the specified performance criteria.
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