Resolution-Dependent Depth Of Focus For an Incoherent Imaging-System

Through the application of the Rayleigh criterion for a two-point resolution, the dependence of the depth of focus on the resolution in the image is determined for a rectangular, a Gaussian, and an annular lens aperture. These solutions are posed in terms of the normalized parameters, obviating the need for the specification of the actual physical lengths. A general approach applicable to any aperture topology is discussed.