Systematic design of microscope objectives. Pt.II: Lens modules and design principles

Based on the microscope objective database and systematic classification introduced in Part I, the Zones 1–4 objective lenses are systematically analysed in this paper to extract the building blocks. All the definitions and terms are based on the preceding paper. The lens modules utilised in the front, middle and rear groups are investigated by reliable aberration evaluation tools with robust and accurate raytracing. Thereby, the aberration correction principles are summarised, from which 29 lens modules are well sorted with respect to their decoupled aberration correction functionalities. Furthermore, some intrinsic relations between the aberration-related lens modules and the impact of applications or the consideration of manufacturing and technology are also discussed. Utilising the lens modules, system modification and synthesis examples shall be given in Part III