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Understanding Rod Lenses in Optics

Overview

A rod lens is a cylindrical lens with a polished mantle and flat end surfaces. It is used for applications such as collimating beams, focusing light to a line, and imaging. Rod lenses are available in various optical materials and sizes, with different focal length definitions.

Types of Rod Lenses

Rod lenses are made from materials like fused silica, BK7, YAG, and silicon. They come in diameters ranging from a few millimeters to microlenses with smaller diameters. Half-rod lenses are also available, which are rod lenses cut into two equal pieces.

Applications

Rod lenses are commonly used for collimating divergent beams, focusing light, and imaging. They are particularly useful as fast-axis collimators for diode bars and in infrared optics applications.

Focal Length

There are two definitions of focal length for rod lenses: effective focal length and back focal length. The effective focal length is the distance between the lens center and the beam waist, while the back focal length is the distance of the focal point from the lens surface.

Conclusion

Understanding the properties and applications of rod lenses in optics is crucial for various optical systems and devices. With their cylindrical shape and unique characteristics, rod lenses play a significant role in shaping and manipulating light for a wide range of applications.

Source: Knight Optical
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