Enhanced Optical Design: Optimizing MTF Through Overlapping Aperture MLA Configuration

This study introduces a novel microlens array (MLA) design incorporating overlapping apertures to enhance flexibility in MLA structure requirements, utilizing chief ray tracing and paraxial imaging optics in projection imaging analysis. The design achieves consistent illumination across the field of vision (FOV) and maintains a compact form factor. Comparative analysis between a sample 3x3 MLA projector and the proposed 3x3 MLA projector, both with equal aperture sizes, demonstrates the effectiveness of the overlapping apertures. Simulations show significant improvements in FOV and modulation transfer function (MTF), as validated by diffraction MTF analysis. The two-layer overlapping structure has modulation depths larger than 0.6, 0.5, and 0.3 for 2o, 5o, and 7o Semi-FOVs. This research contributes to the development of more sophisticated and efficient small MLA projection optical systems, offering advancements in uniform lighting, increased FOV, and improved MTF.