655-210 Optical Design and Ophthalmic Metrology

Students may only gain credit for one of 655-210 or 655-219 or 655-311 (prior to 2006).

One of Optometry 655-152, 655-101, 655-102 or 655-202.

The purpose of this subject is to provide an understanding of the principles and techniques of optical design including an understanding of the control and optimisation of aberrations. It is an introduction to ophthalmic lenses and spectacle lens design. The topics covered include aberration theory, optical design and control of aberrations including the design of ophthalmic lenses, advanced photometry and radiometry, and optics of commonly used ophthalmic instruments. Practical classes will include computer-aided tutorials on both optical design and lens calculations.

Ongoing assessment of practical work during the semester (15%); a calculation-based group assignment due at the end of the semester (10%); a 3-hour written examination in the examination period (75%). Satisfactory completion of all assessment components is necessary to pass the subject.

• G Smith and D A Atchison, The Eye and Visual Optical Instruments. Cambridge University Press, 1997.