Hybrid diffractive-refractive achromatic spectacle lenses

Abstract

The possible utility of high-power hybrid achromatic spectacle lenses, each consisting of a contact combination of refractive and diffractive components, is considered. It is shown that such a combination can, in principle, minimize blur due to transverse chromatic aberration in high-power prescriptions such as those for aphakes and high myopes. The combination has essentially the same thickness and weight as a conventional singlet lens. Some practical problems relating to hybrid designs are discussed.