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Effective Focal Length Relay System

  • August 25, 2020
  • 2 replies
  • 1165 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

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