Optimization and analysis of multi-layer diffractive optical elements in visible waveband

Abstract An optimization for diffraction efficiency of the multi-layer diffractive optical elements (MLDOEs) is presented, then the construction process of optimization program is introduced in detail. A new optimization initial point is proposed, which contributes to analyze the relationship between the optimal relief heights and the base materials. Through the optimization examples, diffraction efficiency higher than 99.7% from F line (486.1327 nm) to C line (656.2725 nm) of visible waveband can be achieved, and the polychromatic integral diffraction efficiency (PIDE) over the entire waveband is 99.94%. Moreover, this paper compares and analyzes optimization results of different glass pairs, and the relationship between the optimal relief heights pairs and base materials pairs is obtained.