(Fall 2009)

This practical, hands-on course will provide you with the fundamental principles in optical lens design. Participants will learn how to design simple image forming lenses and mirrors with various glasses. The knowledge and skills achieved in this course will prepare participants for advanced level study in optical design. Topics include: review of geometric and physical optics, image formation, ray tracing; aberration theory, evaluation and balancing; modeling with optical design software; 2D and 3D solid model layouts and various image evaluation tools. During the course of the class students will have access to a network key for industry standard Zemax software for optical design. ( a $2,000 value) Prerequisites:College level algebra, physics and familiarity with optics or equivalent experience. Students are required to bring a lap top to this class to utilize the Zemax software.

Valentina Doushkina, has over 20 years experience in a conceptual, optical, and opto-mechanical design, modeling, prototyping, and production of advanced systems such as laser scanners, laser Doppler vibrometers and velocimeters, spectral imager of atmospheric emission, LCD projection, optical systems for iLasik.