I’d like to design an adjustable laser beam expander using singlet lenses from a standard supplier e.g. Thorlabs. I’m looking for design methods that allow me to specify the magnification. I’d also like to estimate the aberrations, such as spherical aberration. Any advice/pointers welcome.
Hi Dane,
sounds like a classical approach for an optical design software like ZEMAX, Code V, Lighttools (or similar).
Feel free to contact me by mail to discuss further if you´re looking for optical design services.
Lars.Nakotte@all-in-optics.de
Regards
Lars
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As Lars wrote, this is a design task for the standard tools. However, it’s good to know what you are asking for. There will be at least 3 elements. Two for the variable focal length where you need to set the distance between them and then move them as a group relative the 3rd singlet. Don’t try to make it small and give the mechanics the time it needs. If you don’t have access to the standard tool (Zemax and …), my favorite is Kingslake, Lens Design Fundamentals (and you can find a copy on the internet) but obviously, that’s a bit of work. Start with the basics, like the matrix methods and paraxial rays (about page 60 in Kingslake). That will give you quite a bit of insight related to the magnification and what your mechanics need to handle in terms of distances.
Best of luck.
jarek.luberek@senslogic.de
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Hello Dane,
We can suggest a design that can be modified by changing known elements to provide the information you seek.
If you are interested, please send me an email: gcoleiny@foptica.com,
Best
Golshan
I think I’ve even seen zoom beam expanders either on Edmund or Thorlabs website where they include the COTS lenses they used in the optical design file - you can basically build it yourself. Designing your own is indeed not too difficult either - if you have the software.
It is important to take proper care of the optomechanics design in a way that the beam pointing stays stable while moving the lenses. Good luck
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