Flat field lenses

Claim 2

A lens assembly for incorporation into an optical transfer system wherein four such assemblies define an optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: a positive element constructed of a first material having a relatively high index of refraction; and a negative element cemented to said positive element and being constructed of a second material having a relatively low index of refraction; said positive and negative elements being characterized by surface radii and refractive indices chosen to define at least one curved interface and a significant index difference across said interface; the assembly being configured so that when four such assemblies are aligned to define the transfer module, two of the assemblies have their respective curved interfaces proximate respective ones of the successive image planes while the remaining two have their respective curved interfaces proximate an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes; the surface radii and refractive indices of said positive and negative elements being chosen so that the normalized Petzval sum of the transfer module is significantly less than the inverse of the refractive index of said first material, with the difference between said inverse and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bonding, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction being at least two-thirds the sum of the bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the dispersion of said first and second materials being chosen to substantially correct chromatic aberration; at least one of said elements including portions defining an outer aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration.

Claim 3

A wide angle objective comprising: a first negative element; a first positive element cemented to said first negative element to define a first cemented pair with a first curved interface; a second positive element; a second negative element cemented to said second positive element to define a second cemented pair spaced apart from said first cemented pair and having a second curved interface; and an aperture stop located between said first and second cemented pairs to reduce spherical aberration; said positive elements and said negative elements being characterized by surface radii and refractive indices chosen to define a significant index difference across each of said interfaces such that the normalized Petzval sum of the objective is significantly less than the inverse of the refractive index of said first positive element with the difference between said inverse and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction being at least two-thirds the sum of the bending, spacing, and index difference contributions.

Claim 4

A wide angle objective comprising: a first negative element; a first positive element cemented to said first negative element to define a first cemented pair with a first curved interface; a second positive element; a second negative element cemented to said second positive element to define a second cemented pair spaced apart from said first cemented pair and having a second curved interface; and an aperture stop located between said first and second cemented pairs to reduce spherical aberration; said positive elements and said negative elements being characterized by surface radii and refractive indices chosen to define a significant index difference across each of said interfaces such that the normalized Petzval sum of the objective is significantly less than the inverse of the refractive index of said first positive element with the difference between said inverse and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction being at least two-thirds the sum of the bending, spacing, and index difference contributions.

Claim 5

The invention of claim 2 wherein said first and second positive elements and said first and second negative elements are formed of materials having their dispersions chosen to substantially correct chromatic aberration.

Claim 6

The invention of claim 2 wherein said first and second positive elements and said first and second negative elements are similarly configured, and said aperture stop is generally symmetrically located.

Claim 7

An optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: first and second symmetrically disposed, axially aligned composite assemblies, each assembly including a central positive element constructed of a first material having a relatively high index of refraction, and first and second negative elements axially spaced apart from each other by said positive element and cemented thereto, said negative elements being constructed of a second material having a relatively low index of refraction, the dispersions of said first and second materials being such that the chromatic aberration of said transfer module assumes a desired low value, each of said first and second negative elements having portions defining an outer aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration, said first and second negative elements and said central positive element being configured to define respective first and second curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces; said composite assemblies being disposed at relative axial locations between the image planes such that the transfer module is symmetric about an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes, with the first curved interface of said first composite assembly located proximate one of the image planes, the second curved interface of said first and second composite assemblies located proximate the intermediate plane, and the first curved interface of said second composite assembly located proximate the other of the image planes; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction dominating the bending and spacing contributions.

Claim 8

An optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: first and second symmetrically disposed, axially aligned composite assemblies, each assembly including a central positive element constructed of a first material having a relatively high index of refraction, and first and second negative elements axially spaced apart from each other by said positive element and cemented thereto, said negative elements being constructed of a second material having a relatively low index of refraction, the dispersions of said first and second materials being such that the chromatic aberration of said transfer module assumes a desired low value, each of said first and second negative elements having portions defining an outer aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration, said first and second negative elements and said central positive element being configured to define respective first and second curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces; said composite assemblies being disposed at relative axial locations between the image planes such that the transfer module is symmetric about an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes, with the first curved interface of said first composite assembly located proximate one of the image planes, the second curved interface of said first and second composite assemblies located proximate the intermediate plane, and the first curved interface of said second composite assembly located proximate the other of the image planes; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction dominating the bending and spacing contributions.

Claim 9

The lens of claim 5 wherein said first and second negative elements are substantially identical and are disposed symmetrically with respect to one another.

Claim 10

A lens assembly for incorporation into an optical transfer system wherein two such assemblies define an optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: a central positive element constructed of a first material having a relatively high index of refraction; and first and second negative elements axially spaced apart from each other by said positive element and cemented thereto, said negative elements being constructed of a second material having a relatively low index of refraction; the dispersions of said first and second materials being such that the chromatic aberration of said lens assembly assumes a desired low value; each of said first and second negative elements having portions defining an outer aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration; said first and second negative elements and said central positive element being configured to define respective first and second curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces; the assembly being configured so that when two such assemblies are aligned to define the transfer module, the assemblies have their respective first curved interfaces proximate respective ones of the successive image planes and their respective second curved interfaces proximate an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes; the surface radii and refractive indices of said positive and negative elements being chosen so that the normalized Petzval sum of the transfer module is significantly less than the inverse of the refractive index of said first material, with the difference between said inverse and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction dominating the bending and spacing contributions.

Claim 11

A lens assembly for incorporation into an optical transfer system wherein two such assemblies define an optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: a central positive element constructed of a first material having a relatively high index of refraction; and first and second negative elements axially spaced apart from each other by said positive element and cemented thereto, said negative elements being constructed of a second material having a relatively low index of refraction; the dispersions of said first and second materials being such that the chromatic aberration of said lens assembly assumes a desired low value; each of said first and second negative elements having portions defining an outer aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration; said first and second negative elements and said central positive element being configured to define respective first and second curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces; the assembly being configured so that when two such assemblies are aligned to define the transfer module, the assemblies have their respective first curved interfaces proximate respective ones of the successive image planes and their respective second curved interfaces proximate an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes; the surface radii and refractive indices of said positive and negative elements being chosen so that the normalized Petzval sum of the transfer module is significantly less than the inverse of the refractive index of said first material, with the difference between said inverse and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction dominating the bending and spacing contributions.

Claim 12

A lens assembly for incorporation into an optical transfer system wherein four such assemblies define an optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: a positive element constructed of a first material having a relatively high index of refraction; and a negative element cemented to said positive element, being constructed of a second material having a relatively low index of refraction; the dispersions of said first and second materials being such that the chromatic aberration of said lens assembly assumes a desired low value; at least one of said positive and negative elements having portions defining an outer aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration; said positive and negative elements being configured to define a curved interface therebetween and a significant index difference across said interface; the assembly being configured so that when four such assemblies are aligned to define the transfer module, two of the assemblies have their respective curved interfaces proximate respective ones of the successive image planes while the remaining two have their respective curved interfaces proximate an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes; the surface radii and refractive indices of said positive and negative elements being chosen so that the normalized Petzval sum of the transfer module is significantly less than the inverse of the refractive index of said first material, with the difference between said inverse and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction dominating the bending and spacing contributions.

Claim 13

A lens assembly for incorporation into an optical transfer system wherein four such assemblies define an optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: a positive element constructed of a first material having a relatively high index of refraction; and a negative element cemented to said positive element, being constructed of a second material having a relatively low index of refraction; the dispersions of said first and second materials being such that the chromatic aberration of said lens assembly assumes a desired low value; at least one of said positive and negative elements having portions defining an outer aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration; said positive and negative elements being configured to define a curved interface therebetween and a significant index difference across said interface; the assembly being configured so that when four such assemblies are aligned to define the transfer module, two of the assemblies have their respective curved interfaces proximate respective ones of the successive image planes while the remaining two have their respective curved interfaces proximate an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes; the surface radii and refractive indices of said positive and negative elements being chosen so that the normalized Petzval sum of the transfer module is significantly less than the inverse of the refractive index of said first material, with the difference between said inverse and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction dominating the bending and spacing contributions.

Claim 14

The invention of claim 8 wherein said outer aspheric surface is on said negative element.

Claim 15

A lens assembly for incorporation into an optical transfer system wherein two such assemblies define an optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: a central element having a power of a first sense, being constructed of a first material hving a first index of refraction; and first and second end elements each having a power of a second sense opposite to said first sense, being axially spaced apart from each other by said central element and cemented thereto, said end elements being constructed of a second material having a second index of refraction; said first and second indices of refraction differing from one another, the result of subtracting said second index of refraction from said first index of refraction having said first sense; said central element and said first and second end elements being characterized by surface radii and refractive indices chosen to define respective first and second curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces; the assembly being configured so that when two such assemblies are aligned to define the transfer module, the assemblies have their respective first curved interfaces proximate respective ones of the successive image planes and their respective second curved interfaces proximate an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes; the surface radii and refractive indices of said central and end elements being chosen so that the normalized Petzval sum of the transfer module is significantly less than the inverse of the larger of said first and second refractive indices with the difference between said inverse and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction being at least two-thirds the sum of the bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the dispersions of said first and second materials being chosen to substantially correct chromatic aberration; each of said first and second end elements including portions defining an outer aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration.

Claim 16

A lens assembly for incorporation into an optical transfer system wherein two such assemblies define an optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: a central element having a power of a first sense, being constructed of a first material hving a first index of refraction; and first and second end elements each having a power of a second sense opposite to said first sense, being axially spaced apart from each other by said central element and cemented thereto, said end elements being constructed of a second material having a second index of refraction; said first and second indices of refraction differing from one another, the result of subtracting said second index of refraction from said first index of refraction having said first sense; said central element and said first and second end elements being characterized by surface radii and refractive indices chosen to define respective first and second curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces; the assembly being configured so that when two such assemblies are aligned to define the transfer module, the assemblies have their respective first curved interfaces proximate respective ones of the successive image planes and their respective second curved interfaces proximate an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes; the surface radii and refractive indices of said central and end elements being chosen so that the normalized Petzval sum of the transfer module is significantly less than the inverse of the larger of said first and second refractive indices with the difference between said inverse and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction being at least two-thirds the sum of the bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the dispersions of said first and second materials being chosen to substantially correct chromatic aberration; each of said first and second end elements including portions defining an outer aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration.

Claim 17

The invention of claim 10 wherein said first sense is positive whereupon said central element has positive power and said first material has a relatively high index of refraction, and said end elements have negative power and said second material has a relatively low index of refraction.

Claim 18

The invention of claim 11 wherein said central element is made of glass and said end elements are made of plastic.

Claim 19

The invention of claim 10 wherein said end elements are substantially identical and disposed symmetrically with respect to one another.

Claim 20

An optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: first, second, third, and fourth axially aligned composite assemblies, each assembly including a positive element constructed of a first material having a relatively high index of refraction n pos , and a negative element cemented to said positive element and being constructed of a second material having a relatively low index of refraction; said positive and negative elements being characterized by surface radii and refractive indices chosen to define respective first, second, third, and fourth curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces; said composite assemblies being disposed at relative axial locations between the image planes such that the transfer module is symmetric about an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes, with said first curved interface located proximate one of the image planes, said second and third curved interfaces located proximate the intermediate plane, and said fourth curved interface located proximate the other of the image planes; said surface radii and refractive indices being chosen so that the normalized Petzval sum of the transfer module is significantly less than 1/n pos with the difference between 1/n pos and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction being at least two-thirds the sum of the bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the dispersions of said first and second materials being chosen to substantially correct chromatic aberration; at least one of said positive and negative elements including portions defining an aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration.

Claim 21

An optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: first, second, third, and fourth axially aligned composite assemblies, each assembly including a positive element constructed of a first material having a relatively high index of refraction n pos , and a negative element cemented to said positive element and being constructed of a second material having a relatively low index of refraction; said positive and negative elements being characterized by surface radii and refractive indices chosen to define respective first, second, third, and fourth curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces; said composite assemblies being disposed at relative axial locations between the image planes such that the transfer module is symmetric about an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes, with said first curved interface located proximate one of the image planes, said second and third curved interfaces located proximate the intermediate plane, and said fourth curved interface located proximate the other of the image planes; said surface radii and refractive indices being chosen so that the normalized Petzval sum of the transfer module is significantly less than 1/n pos with the difference between 1/n pos and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction being at least two-thirds the sum of the bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the dispersions of said first and second materials being chosen to substantially correct chromatic aberration; at least one of said positive and negative elements including portions defining an aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration.

Claim 22

The invention of claim 14 wherein all four assemblies are substantially identical.

Claim 23

The invention of claim 14 wherein said aspheric surface is an outer surface of said assembly.

Claim 24

The invention of claim 14 wherein said negative element is formed with said aspheric surface.

Claim 25

The invention of claim 14, and further comprising: a first cylinder located between said first and second assemblies; and a second cylinder located between said third and fourth assemblies; said cylinders being formed of transparent optical material having flat end faces.

Claim 26

An optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: first, second, third, and fourth axially aligned, substantially identical composite assemblies, each assembly including a positive element constructed of a first material having a relatively high index of refraction n pos , and a negative element cemented to said positive element and being constructed of a second material having a relatively low index of refraction, at least one of said positive and negative elements including portions defining an aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration; a first cylinder located between said first and second assemblies; and a second cylinder located between said third and fourth assemblies; said cylinders being formed of a third material and having flat end faces; said positive elements and said negative elements being characterized by surface radii and refractive indices chosen to define respective first, second, third, and fourth curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces; said composite assemblies being disposed at relative axial locations between the image planes such that the transfer module is symmetric about an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes, with said first curved interface located proximate one of the image planes, said second and third curved interfaces located proximate the intermediate plane, and said fourth curved interface location proximate the other of the image planes; said surface radii and refractive indices being chosen so that the normalized Petzval sum of the transfer module is significantly less than 1/n pos with the difference between 1/n pos and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction being at least two-thirds the sum of the bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the dispersions of said first, second, and third materials being chosen to substantially correct chromatic aberration.

Claim 27

An optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: first, second, third, and fourth axially aligned, substantially identical composite assemblies, each assembly including a positive element constructed of a first material having a relatively high index of refraction n pos , and a negative element cemented to said positive element and being constructed of a second material having a relatively low index of refraction, at least one of said positive and negative elements including portions defining an aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration; a first cylinder located between said first and second assemblies; and a second cylinder located between said third and fourth assemblies; said cylinders being formed of a third material and having flat end faces; said positive elements and said negative elements being characterized by surface radii and refractive indices chosen to define respective first, second, third, and fourth curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces; said composite assemblies being disposed at relative axial locations between the image planes such that the transfer module is symmetric about an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes, with said first curved interface located proximate one of the image planes, said second and third curved interfaces located proximate the intermediate plane, and said fourth curved interface location proximate the other of the image planes; said surface radii and refractive indices being chosen so that the normalized Petzval sum of the transfer module is significantly less than 1/n pos with the difference between 1/n pos and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction being at least two-thirds the sum of the bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the dispersions of said first, second, and third materials being chosen to substantially correct chromatic aberration.

Claim 28

A lens assembly for incorporation into an optical transfer system wherein two such assemblies define an optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: a symmetrical central element constructed of a first material having a first index of refraction; and first and second substantially identical end elements axially spaced apart from each other by said central element and cemented thereto, said end elements being constructed of a second material having a second index of refraction; the dispersions of said first and second materials being such that the chromatic aberration of said lens assembly assumes a desired low value; said first and second end elements and said central element being configured to define respective first and second curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces; the assembly being configured so that when two such assemblies are aligned to define the transfer module, the assemblies have their respective first curved interfaces proximate respective ones of the successive image planes and their respective second curved interfaces proximate an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes; the surface radii and refractive indices of said central and end elements being chosen so that the normalized Petzval sum of the transfer module is significantly less than the inverse of the larger of said first and second refractive indices with the difference between said inverse and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction dominates the bending and spacing contributions.

Claim 29

A lens assembly for incorporation into an optical transfer system wherein two such assemblies define an optical transfer module for transferring an image between successive image planes, comprising: a symmetrical central element constructed of a first material having a first index of refraction; and first and second substantially identical end elements axially spaced apart from each other by said central element and cemented thereto, said end elements being constructed of a second material having a second index of refraction; the dispersions of said first and second materials being such that the chromatic aberration of said lens assembly assumes a desired low value; said first and second end elements and said central element being configured to define respective first and second curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces; the assembly being configured so that when two such assemblies are aligned to define the transfer module, the assemblies have their respective first curved interfaces proximate respective ones of the successive image planes and their respective second curved interfaces proximate an intermediate plane halfway between the image planes; the surface radii and refractive indices of said central and end elements being chosen so that the normalized Petzval sum of the transfer module is significantly less than the inverse of the larger of said first and second refractive indices with the difference between said inverse and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction dominates the bending and spacing contributions.

Claim 30

The invention of claim 20 wherein each of said first and second end elements has portions defining an outer aspheric surface to correct spherical aberration.

Claim 31

The invention of claim 20 wherein: said first index of refraction exceeds said second index of refraction; said central element has positive power; and said end elements have negative power.

Claim 32

A wide angle objective comprising: a first subassembly including at least a first negative element and a first positive element cemented thereto; a second subassembly including a second positive element and a second negative element cemented thereto, said second subassembly being spaced apart from said first subassembly; an aperture stop located between said first and second subassembly to reduce spherical aberration; said first and second positive elements and said first and second negative elements being configured to define respective first and second curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces such that the normalized Petzval sum of the objective is significantly less than the inverse of the refractive index of said first positive element with the difference between said inverse and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction dominating the bending and spacing contributions.

Claim 33

A wide angle objective comprising: a first subassembly including at least a first negative element and a first positive element cemented thereto; a second subassembly including a second positive element and a second negative element cemented thereto, said second subassembly being spaced apart from said first subassembly; an aperture stop located between said first and second subassembly to reduce spherical aberration; said first and second positive elements and said first and second negative elements being configured to define respective first and second curved interfaces and a significant index difference across each of said interfaces such that the normalized Petzval sum of the objective is significantly less than the inverse of the refractive index of said first positive element with the difference between said inverse and the Petzval sum being equal to the sum of bending, spacing, and index difference contributions; the index difference contribution to the Petzval sum correction dominating the bending and spacing contributions.

Claim 34

The invention of claim 23 wherein said objective is of generally symmetric configuration.

Claim 35

The invention of claim 24 wherein said subassemblies are cemented pairs.

Claim 36

The invention of claim 1 or 2 or 3 or 4 or 5 or 6 or 7 or 8 or 9 or 10 or 11 or 12 or 13 or 14 or 15 or 16 or 17 or 18 or 19 or 20 or 21 or 22 or 23 or 24 or 25 wherein said significant index difference is an index difference of at least about 0.225.

Claim 37

The invention of claim 1 or 8 or 9 or 14 or 15 or 16 or 17 or 18 or 19 or 20 or 21 or 22 or 23 or 24 or 25 wherein said curved interface has a curvature at least comparable to the curvature of any external surfaces of said positive and negative elements.

Claim 38

The invention of claim 2 or 3 or 4 or 5 or 6 or 7 or 10 or 11 or 12 or 13 wherein said curved interfaces have respective curvatures at least comparable to the curvatures of any external surfaces of said positive and negative elements.

Claim 39

A triplet assembly defining half a transfer module for an endoscope relay system comprising elements made of optical materials and having normalized geometrical parameters as follows: ______________________________________ Refractive Abbe Radius Thickness Medium Index Number ______________________________________ d.sub.a = stop diameter = 0.3 t.sub.ab = 0.001 air r.sub.b = flat base curve, aspheric co- n.sub.bc = 1.567 v.sub.bc = 33.5 polymer r.sub.c = 0.2710 t.sub.cd = 1.996 Schott n.sub.cd = 1.8127 v.sub.cd = 40.5 LaSFN3 r.sub.d = -0.2710 t.sub.de = 0.001 co- n.sub.de = 1.567 v.sub.de = 33.5 polymer r.sub.e = flat base curve, aspheric t.sub.ef = 0.001 air d.sub.f = stop diameter = 0.3 Aspheric Coefficients AD.sub.b = -2.04 e-8 AE.sub.b = -1.55 e-11 AF.sub.b = -1.59 e-14 AG.sub.b = -3.03 e-17 AD.sub.e = 2.04 e-8 AE.sub.e = 1.55 e-11 AF.sub.e = 1.59 e-14 AG.sub.e = 3.03 e-17 ______________________________________ where the single subscripts denote the characteristic surfaces of the elements and the double subscripts denote the regions between corresponding surfaces.

Claim 40

A triplet assembly defining half a transfer module for an endoscope relay system comprising elements made of optical materials and having normalized geometrical parameters as follows: ______________________________________ Refractive Abbe Radius Thickness Medium Index Number ______________________________________ d.sub.a = stop diameter = 0.3 t.sub.ab = 0.001 air r.sub.b = flat base curve, aspheric co- n.sub.bc = 1.567 v.sub.bc = 33.5 polymer r.sub.c = 0.2710 t.sub.cd = 1.996 Schott n.sub.cd = 1.8127 v.sub.cd = 40.5 LaSFN3 r.sub.d = -0.2710 t.sub.de = 0.001 co- n.sub.de = 1.567 v.sub.de = 33.5 polymer r.sub.e = flat base curve, aspheric t.sub.ef = 0.001 air d.sub.f = stop diameter = 0.3 Aspheric Coefficients AD.sub.b = -2.04 e-8 AE.sub.b = -1.55 e-11 AF.sub.b = -1.59 e-14 AG.sub.b = -3.03 e-17 AD.sub.e = 2.04 e-8 AE.sub.e = 1.55 e-11 AF.sub.e = 1.59 e-14 AG.sub.e = 3.03 e-17 ______________________________________ where the single subscripts denote the characteristic surfaces of the elements and the double subscripts denote the regions between corresponding surfaces.

Claim 41

A pair of doublet assemblies defining half a transfer module for an endoscope relay system comprising elements made of optical materials and having normalized geometrical parameters as follows: ______________________________________ Refractive Abbe Radius Thickness Medium Index Number ______________________________________ d.sub.a = stop diameter = 0.3 t.sub.ab = 0.010 air r.sub.b = -3.0000 t.sub.bc = 0.200 Schott n.sub.bc = 1.7923 v.sub.bc = 47.4 LaF21 r.sub.c = -0.4000 t.sub.cd = 0.020 co- n.sub.cd = 1.567 v.sub.cd = 33.5 polymer r.sub.d = -1.9957, aspheric t.sub.de = 1.540 air r.sub.e = -1.9957, aspheric t.sub.ef = 0.200 co- n.sub.ef = 1.567 v.sub.ef = 33.5 polymer r.sub.f = 0.4000 t.sub.fg = 0.200 Schott n.sub.fg = 1.7923 v.sub.fg = 47.4 LaF21 r.sub.g = 3.0000 t.sub.gh = 0.010 air d.sub.h = stop diameter = 0.3 Aspheric Coefficients AD.sub.d = 9.37 e-9 AE.sub.d = 2.91 e-12 AF.sub.d = 1.69 e-15 AG.sub.d = 1.32 e-16 AD.sub.e = -9.37 e-9 AE.sub.e = -2.91 e-12 AF.sub.e = -1.69 e-15 AG.sub.e = -1.32 e-16 ______________________________________ where the single subscripts denote the characteristic surfaces of the elements and the double subscripts denote the regions between corresponding surfaces.

Claim 42

A pair of doublet assemblies defining half a transfer module for an endoscope relay system comprising elements made of optical materials and having normalized geometrical parameters as follows: ______________________________________ Refractive Abbe Radius Thickness Medium Index Number ______________________________________ d.sub.a = stop diameter = 0.3 t.sub.ab = 0.010 air r.sub.b = -3.0000 t.sub.bc = 0.200 Schott n.sub.bc = 1.7923 v.sub.bc = 47.4 LaF21 r.sub.c = -0.4000 t.sub.cd = 0.020 co- n.sub.cd = 1.567 v.sub.cd = 33.5 polymer r.sub.d = -1.9957, aspheric t.sub.de = 1.540 air r.sub.e = -1.9957, aspheric t.sub.ef = 0.200 co- n.sub.ef = 1.567 v.sub.ef = 33.5 polymer r.sub.f = 0.4000 t.sub.fg = 0.200 Schott n.sub.fg = 1.7923 v.sub.fg = 47.4 LaF21 r.sub.g = 3.0000 t.sub.gh = 0.010 air d.sub.h = stop diameter = 0.3 Aspheric Coefficients AD.sub.d = 9.37 e-9 AE.sub.d = 2.91 e-12 AF.sub.d = 1.69 e-15 AG.sub.d = 1.32 e-16 AD.sub.e = -9.37 e-9 AE.sub.e = -2.91 e-12 AF.sub.e = -1.69 e-15 AG.sub.e = -1.32 e-16 ______________________________________ where the single subscripts denote the characteristic surfaces of the elements and the double subscripts denote the regions between corresponding surfaces.

Claim 43

A pair of doublet or half triplet assemblies defining half a transfer module for an endoscope relay system comprising elements made of optical materials and having normalized geometrical parameters as follows: ______________________________________ Refractive Abbe Radius Thickness Medium Index Number ______________________________________ d.sub.a = stop diameter = 0.3 t.sub.ab = 0.150 Schott n.sub.ab = 1.8858 v.sub.ab = 40.8 LaSF5 r.sub.b = -0.3777 t.sub.bc = 0.020 co- n.sub.bc = 1.567 v.sub.bc = 33.5 polymer r.sub.c = 2.0000, aspheric t.sub.cd = 1.660 air r.sub.d = -2.0000, aspheric t.sub.de = 0.020 co- n.sub.de = 1.567 v.sub.de = 33.5 polymer r.sub.e = 0.3777 t.sub.ef = 0.150 Schott n.sub.ef = 1.8858 v.sub.ef = 40.8 LaSF5 d.sub.f = stop diameter = 0.3 Aspheric Coefficients AD.sub.c = 1.97 e-8 AE.sub.c = 1.26 e-11 AF.sub.c = 1.14 e-14 AG.sub.c = 1.68 e-17 AD.sub.d = -1.97 e-8 AE.sub.d = -1.26 e-11 AF.sub.d = -1.14 e-14 AG.sub.d = -1.68 e-17 ______________________________________ where the single subscripts denote the characteristic surfaces of the elements and the double subscripts denote the regions between corresponding surfaces.

Claim 44

A pair of doublet or half triplet assemblies defining half a transfer module for an endoscope relay system comprising elements made of optical materials and having normalized geometrical parameters as follows: ______________________________________ Refractive Abbe Radius Thickness Medium Index Number ______________________________________ d.sub.a = stop diameter = 0.3 t.sub.ab = 0.150 Schott n.sub.ab = 1.8858 v.sub.ab = 40.8 LaSF5 r.sub.b = -0.3777 t.sub.bc = 0.020 co- n.sub.bc = 1.567 v.sub.bc = 33.5 polymer r.sub.c = 2.0000, aspheric t.sub.cd = 1.660 air r.sub.d = -2.0000, aspheric t.sub.de = 0.020 co- n.sub.de = 1.567 v.sub.de = 33.5 polymer r.sub.e = 0.3777 t.sub.ef = 0.150 Schott n.sub.ef = 1.8858 v.sub.ef = 40.8 LaSF5 d.sub.f = stop diameter = 0.3 Aspheric Coefficients AD.sub.c = 1.97 e-8 AE.sub.c = 1.26 e-11 AF.sub.c = 1.14 e-14 AG.sub.c = 1.68 e-17 AD.sub.d = -1.97 e-8 AE.sub.d = -1.26 e-11 AF.sub.d = -1.14 e-14 AG.sub.d = -1.68 e-17 ______________________________________ where the single subscripts denote the characteristic surfaces of the elements and the double subscripts denote the regions between corresponding surfaces.

Claim 45

A paired doublet and cylinder assembly defining half a transfer module for an endoscope relay system comprising elements made of optical materials and having normalized geometrical parameters as follows: ______________________________________ Refractive Abbe Radius Thickness Medium Index Number ______________________________________ d.sub.a = stop diameter = 0.3 t.sub.ab = 0 air r.sub.b = 1.2000 t.sub.bc = 0.120 Schott n.sub.bc = 1.8858 v.sub.bc = 40.8 LaSF5 r.sub.c = -0.4366 t.sub.cd = 0.020 co- n.sub.cd = 1.5670 v.sub.cd = 33.5 polymer r.sub.d = 1.0000, aspheric t.sub.de = 0.010 air r.sub.e = flat t.sub.ef = 1.700 Schott n.sub.ef = 1.8126 v.sub.ef = 25.1 SF6 r.sub.f = flat t.sub.fg = 0.020 air r.sub.g = -1.0000, aspheric t.sub.gh = 0.020 co- n.sub.gh =1.5670 v.sub.gh = 33.5 polymer r.sub.h = 0.4366 t.sub.hi = 0.120 Schott n.sub.hi = 1.8858 v.sub.hi = 40.8 LaSF5 r.sub.i = -1.2000 t.sub.ij = 0 air d.sub.j = stop diameter = 0.3 Aspheric Coefficients AD.sub.d = 2.35 e-8 AE.sub.d = 1.88 e-11 AF.sub.d = 1.93 e-14 AG.sub.d = 3.69 e-17 AD.sub.g = -2.35 e-8 AE.sub.g = -1.88 e-11 AF.sub.g = -1.93 e-14 AG.sub.g = -3.69 e-17 ______________________________________ where the single subscripts denote the characteristic surfaces of the elements and the double subscripts denote the regions between corresponding surfaces.

Claim 46

A paired doublet and cylinder assembly defining half a transfer module for an endoscope relay system comprising elements made of optical materials and having normalized geometrical parameters as follows: ______________________________________ Refractive Abbe Radius Thickness Medium Index Number ______________________________________ d.sub.a = stop diameter = 0.3 t.sub.ab = 0 air r.sub.b = 1.2000 t.sub.bc = 0.120 Schott n.sub.bc = 1.8858 v.sub.bc = 40.8 LaSF5 r.sub.c = -0.4366 t.sub.cd = 0.020 co- n.sub.cd = 1.5670 v.sub.cd = 33.5 polymer r.sub.d = 1.0000, aspheric t.sub.de = 0.010 air r.sub.e = flat t.sub.ef = 1.700 Schott n.sub.ef = 1.8126 v.sub.ef = 25.1 SF6 r.sub.f = flat t.sub.fg = 0.020 air r.sub.g = -1.0000, aspheric t.sub.gh = 0.020 co- n.sub.gh =1.5670 v.sub.gh = 33.5 polymer r.sub.h = 0.4366 t.sub.hi = 0.120 Schott n.sub.hi = 1.8858 v.sub.hi = 40.8 LaSF5 r.sub.i = -1.2000 t.sub.ij = 0 air d.sub.j = stop diameter = 0.3 Aspheric Coefficients AD.sub.d = 2.35 e-8 AE.sub.d = 1.88 e-11 AF.sub.d = 1.93 e-14 AG.sub.d = 3.69 e-17 AD.sub.g = -2.35 e-8 AE.sub.g = -1.88 e-11 AF.sub.g = -1.93 e-14 AG.sub.g = -3.69 e-17 ______________________________________ where the single subscripts denote the characteristic surfaces of the elements and the double subscripts denote the regions between corresponding surfaces.

Claim 47

A wide angle objective comprising elements having geometrical parameters normalized for unit power and optical parameters as follows: ______________________________________ Focal Length: EFL = 1.000 Aperture ratio: 1:16 Back focal length: BFL = 0.8658 Field angle: 2 × 50° Me- Refractive Abbe Radius Thickness dium Index Number ______________________________________ r.sub.a = 0.9888 t.sub.ab = 0.0100 Schott n.sub.ab = 1.5510 v.sub.ab = 45.5 LLF1 r.sub.b = 0.1507 t.sub.bc = 0.0500 Schott n.sub.bc = 1.7923 v.sub.bc = 47.4 LAF21 r.sub.c = 0.4586 t.sub.cd = 0.0848 air d.sub.d = aperture stop diameter = 0.056 t.sub.de = 0.0789 air r.sub.e = -0.5200 t.sub.ef = 0.0500 Schott n.sub.ef = 1.7923 v.sub.ef = 47.4 LaF21 r.sub.f = -0.1524 t.sub.fg = 0.0100 Schott n.sub.fg = 1.5510 v.sub.fh = 45.5 LLF1 r.sub.g = -1.2519 ______________________________________ where the single subscripts denote the characteristic surfaces of the elements and the double subscripts denote the regions between corresponding surfaces.

Claim 48

A wide angle objective comprising elements having geometrical parameters normalized for unit power and optical parameters as follows: ______________________________________ Focal Length: EFL = 1.000 Aperture ratio: 1:16 Back focal length: BFL = 0.8658 Field angle: 2 × 50° Me- Refractive Abbe Radius Thickness dium Index Number ______________________________________ r.sub.a = 0.9888 t.sub.ab = 0.0100 Schott n.sub.ab = 1.5510 v.sub.ab = 45.5 LLF1 r.sub.b = 0.1507 t.sub.bc = 0.0500 Schott n.sub.bc = 1.7923 v.sub.bc = 47.4 LAF21 r.sub.c = 0.4586 t.sub.cd = 0.0848 air d.sub.d = aperture stop diameter = 0.056 t.sub.de = 0.0789 air r.sub.e = -0.5200 t.sub.ef = 0.0500 Schott n.sub.ef = 1.7923 v.sub.ef = 47.4 LaF21 r.sub.f = -0.1524 t.sub.fg = 0.0100 Schott n.sub.fg = 1.5510 v.sub.fh = 45.5 LLF1 r.sub.g = -1.2519 ______________________________________ where the single subscripts denote the characteristic surfaces of the elements and the double subscripts denote the regions between corresponding surfaces.

Claim 49

A wide angle objective comprising elements having geometrical parameters normalized for unit power and optical parameters as follows: ______________________________________ Focal Length: EFL =]1.000 Aperture ratio: 1:16 Back focal length: BFL = 0.8302 Field angle: 2 × 50° Me- Refractive Abbe Radius Thickness dium Index Number ______________________________________ r.sub.a = 0.8394 t.sub.ab = 0.0100 Co- n.sub.ab = 1.5510 v.sub.ab = 33.5 poly- mer r.sub.b = 0.1863 t.sub.bc = 0.0500 Schott n.sub.bc = 1.8858 v.sub.bc = 40.8 LaSF5 r.sub.c = 0.4565 t.sub.cd = 0.1123 air d.sub.d = aperture stop diameter = 0.054 t.sub.de = 0.1121 air r.sub.e = -0.4420 t.sub.ef = 0.0500 Schott n.sub.ef = 1.8858 v.sub.ef = 40.8 LaSF5 r.sub.f = -0.1926 t.sub.fg = 0.0100 Co- n.sub.fg = 1.567 v.sub.fg = 33.5 poly- mer r.sub.g = -0.7080 ______________________________________ where the single subscripts denote the characteristic surfaces of the elements and the double subscripts denote the regions between corresponding surfaces.

Claim 50

A wide angle objective comprising elements having geometrical parameters normalized for unit power and optical parameters as follows: ______________________________________ Focal Length: EFL =]1.000 Aperture ratio: 1:16 Back focal length: BFL = 0.8302 Field angle: 2 × 50° Me- Refractive Abbe Radius Thickness dium Index Number ______________________________________ r.sub.a = 0.8394 t.sub.ab = 0.0100 Co- n.sub.ab = 1.5510 v.sub.ab = 33.5 poly- mer r.sub.b = 0.1863 t.sub.bc = 0.0500 Schott n.sub.bc = 1.8858 v.sub.bc = 40.8 LaSF5 r.sub.c = 0.4565 t.sub.cd = 0.1123 air d.sub.d = aperture stop diameter = 0.054 t.sub.de = 0.1121 air r.sub.e = -0.4420 t.sub.ef = 0.0500 Schott n.sub.ef = 1.8858 v.sub.ef = 40.8 LaSF5 r.sub.f = -0.1926 t.sub.fg = 0.0100 Co- n.sub.fg = 1.567 v.sub.fg = 33.5 poly- mer r.sub.g = -0.7080 ______________________________________ where the single subscripts denote the characteristic surfaces of the elements and the double subscripts denote the regions between corresponding surfaces.