655-219 Optics and Ophthalmic Metrology

This subject is only available to BOptom students repeating the subject from 2005.

Other students should undertake the alternative subject 655-210.

Optometry 655-111.

This subject introduces students to the concept of light as waves of electromagnetic energy radiation; how it is generated and measured, how this energy propagates through space over time, and how optical elements are used to bend and otherwise manipulate light to achieve important real-world applications. The fundamentals of light refraction and optical systems will be introduced and developed in lectures and by interactive web-based multimedia modules. In addition this subject provides an understanding of the principles and techniques of optical design including an understanding of the control and optimisation of aberrations. The topics covered include aberration theory, optical design and control of aberrations, 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.

A written laboratory report due at the end of each practical class (15%); a calculation-based group assignment due mid-semester (10%); a 3-hour open-book written examination in the examination period (75%). Satisfactory completion of all three assessment components is necessary to pass the subject.

An additional reference list will be provided.

• G Smith and D A Atchison, The Eye and Visual Optical Instruments. Cambridge University Press, 1997.
• M Jalie, The Principles of Ophthalmic Lenses. 4th edn, Assoc Brit Disp Opticians, 1984.
• D B Henson, Optometric Instrumentation. 2nd edn, Butterworths, 1996.