Design and Construction of Fresnel Optics for Photoelectric Receivers

The design and construction of Fresnel-type optics particularly suitable for use with area-type photoelectric receivers are described. Such optics have several advantages over conventional lens and mirror systems; large aperture systems may be constructed cheaply and are light in weight, the radiant energy can be distributed uniformly over the sensitive surface to avoid local saturation, and the optics can be economically custom-made for each application. The design procedure is explained and a method given for the construction of these Fresnel-type lenses from plastic in a modestly equipped machine shop. The design predictions and experimental performance data are compared for lenses designed for three different applications.