Design and Evaluation of the Spiral Optical Element as a Diffractive Element with Extended Depth of Focus for Presbyopia Correction

Abstract

This study introduces and assesses the Spiral Optical Element (SOE), a novel diffractive optical design intended to provide extended depth of focus (EDOF) for the correction of presbyopia. The SOE’s optical performance was evaluated through a combination of computational simulations, optical bench testing, and psychophysical measurements involving five participants. Evaluations were conducted using a monocular visual simulator equipped with a spatial light modulator, an electro-optical lens, and a polychromatic stimulus pathway. Results demonstrate that the SOE yields two peaks in visual acuity at 0 D and –2 D, while maintaining acceptable performance across higher defocus levels. Although the SOE offers a narrower focus range than other similar optical elements, such as the Light Sword Lens (LSL), its consistent optical behavior across test stages supports its potential application as an advanced EDOF solution for presbyopia correction