Fundamentals of Optical Engineering

Level: Introductory Length: 2 hours Format: In-Person Lecture Intended Audience: Engineers, technicians, sales professionals, and support staff interested in learning more about optics. Attendance will enhance the understanding and specification of basic optical principles, components, and systems. Description: This course explains fundamental principles and applications of optics. The basic characteristics and the design of optical components and systems will be discussed. For perspective, general topics such as the history of optics and the presence of optical phenomenon in our everyday lives will be included. All information will be presented in a conversational format, with no requirement for dealing with complex theories or mathematics. This course will include hands-on demonstrations of optics phenomena. Learning Outcomes: This course will enable you to: - explain fundamental concepts of optics - identify basic optical components - describe basic optical systems - compare relative optical performance - describe how concepts in optics play a role in applications or devices found in modern society - explain the functioning of the human visual system Instructor(s): Alexis K. S. Vogt Ph.D. is Endowed Chair and Associate Professor of Optics at Monroe Community College. In addition to teaching responsibilities, Dr. Vogt was appointed to her role at MCC in September 2015 to strengthen and grow the optics and photonics program – the nation’s oldest two-year degree program for training technicians to work in the optics and photonics industry. Dr. Vogt received her B.S. as well as her Ph.D. in Optics from the University of Rochester Institute of Optics where her research focused on polarization engineering, coherence theory, and microscopy. Prior to joining MCC, Dr. Vogt was the Applications & Business Development Manager at Melles Griot and previous to that, designed contact lenses and intraocular lenses for Bausch + Lomb. In addition to her industry experience, Dr. Vogt holds three patents and has authored numerous papers, presentations, and publications in the field, including the definitions of “light” and “polarization” for The World Book Encyclopedia. Event: SPIE Photonics West 2020 Course Held: 03 February 2020