nonimaging

Nonimaging denotes approaches in optics and photonics that do not form an image of the object being observed or illuminated. Instead, nonimaging designs optimize the transfer, concentration, or distribution of light or radiant energy.

Unlike imaging optics, which emphasizes angular-to-spatial mapping with high resolution, nonimaging systems aim to maximize optical throughput, uniformity, or energy concentration under the constraints of etendue (also called optical extent).

The field matured in the late 20th century. Roland Winston and colleagues popularized nonimaging optics with the development of the compound parabolic concentrator (CPC) and related devices. Core design principles include the edge-ray principle, which guides designs to collect or emit light efficiently without forming an image, and conservation of etendue that bounds performance.

Applications include solar energy: CPCs, nonimaging troughs, and related concentrators for concentrating sunlight; lighting and illumination optics that distribute light evenly with minimal loss; optical waveguides and light pipes used to transport light where imaging is not required.

Nonimaging techniques can be used in conjunction with imaging components in hybrid systems, but the defining feature remains a priority on energy delivery and illumination quality rather than scene reconstruction.