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Effective Focal Length Relay System

  • August 25, 2020
  • 2 replies
  • 1063 views

I noticed that the effective focal length can be negative for a relay systeem with a real object distance and real image distance.

Based on the lens formula you suspect then a positive focal length. 



for f1=80mm, f2=45mm and d=235mm gives an EFL=-32.7m, this is simmular to zemax.






  1. Lens f1 (paraxial)

  2. Mirror in focus

  3. Mirror

  4. Lens f2 (paraxial)

  5. Image


My question is: Is the EFL really negative and how am I supposed to interpret this?

Best answer by Csilla Timar-Fulep

Hello,

 


By definition the Effective Focal Length is the distance from the rear principal plane to the paraxial focal plane. A negative focal length means that the rear principle plane is behind image surface. This is due the intermediate focus, which flips the rays top to bottom.


Best,


Csilla

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2 replies

Forum|alt.badge.img

Here it means that the image will be inverted.


Csilla Timar-Fulep
Zemax Staff
Forum|alt.badge.img+2

Hello,

 


By definition the Effective Focal Length is the distance from the rear principal plane to the paraxial focal plane. A negative focal length means that the rear principle plane is behind image surface. This is due the intermediate focus, which flips the rays top to bottom.


Best,


Csilla


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