Simulation of Lens Imaging Process

The simulation of lens imaging processes can be implemented through two primary methods: transfer function-based lens imaging and lens imaging demonstration using coherent transfer function (CTF). Lens imaging refers to the process where light rays are either focused or scattered by a lens to form an image of an object. The transfer function-based approach simulates lens imaging by calculating the lens's transfer function, which mathematically represents how the lens modifies incoming wavefronts. This method typically involves Fourier optics principles and can be implemented in code using frequency domain operations with functions like FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) to handle wave propagation and modulation. The lens imaging demonstration using coherent transfer function (CTF) employs coherent illumination to showcase imaging effects through simulation of interference and diffraction phenomena. This method utilizes the CTF to model how coherent light interacts with the lens system, demonstrating key optical behaviors like point spread functions (PSF) and modulation transfer functions (MTF). In programming implementations, this often involves calculating wavefront propagation using angular spectrum methods or Fresnel diffraction integrals, with code structures that handle complex amplitude distributions and phase manipulations. Both methodologies serve as valuable tools for investigating and understanding the fundamental principles and characteristics of lens imaging systems, providing insights into optical performance, resolution limits, and aberration effects through computational modeling.