Three-dimensional simultaneous multiple-surface method and free-form illumination-optics designed therefrom

Abstract

The embodiments provide methods for use in designing and/or manufacturing optical systems. Some embodiments further provide for the optical systems generated utilizing the methods for use in designing and/or manufacturing. In some embodiments, a method simultaneously generates first and second sets of span points defining first and second surfaces, respectively, where sets of span points are interdependent. The method curve fits through the first and second sets of span points defining initial first and second spines, smoothes the curve fittings such that tangent vectors are perpendicular to normal vectors, and defines patches of the first and second surfaces relative to the first and second spines. Some embodiments simultaneously generate the first and second sets of span points by alternatively determining the points of the sets based on propagation of input wavefronts and associated output wavefronts relative to previously determined points.