The iterative Fresnel integrals method for Fresnel diffraction from tilted rectangular apertures: Theory and simulations

We applied the iterative Fresnel integrals method for the numerical computation of Fresnel diffraction patterns from rectangular apertures tilted at an arbitrary angle to the optical axis. Detailed theoretical formalism is developed and discussed, and then is applied for the numerical computation and simulation of the actual diffraction patterns for an arbitrary optical configuration. The generated intensity distributions (images) show distortion and stretching in the direction of the tilt, but not in the other orthogonal direction. Significant decrease of the intensity is also predicted and observed, the decrease being proportionate with the tilt angle. The simulated images qualitatively resemble those published in the literature. In addition to single-axis tilts, simultaneous rotations (tilts) of the aperture in two orthogonal coordinate axes were also briefly considered and simulated.

► We used iterative Fresnel integral method to simulate diffraction from tilted apertures.
► Detailed theoretical formalism and algorithm was developed for this application.
► A MATLB program was developed to implement the algorithm.
► The computer simulated images resemble those published in the literature by using other methods.
► The technique affords an alternative method to simulate Fresnel diffraction from these apertures.