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Diffractive achromats (DAs) combined with image processing algorithms offer a promising lens solution for high-performance ultra-thin imagers. However, the design of large-aperture DAs that align seamlessly with image processing algorithms remains challenging. Existing sequential methods, which prioritize focusing efficiency in DAs before selecting an algorithm, may not achieve a satisfactory match due to an ambiguous relationship between efficiency and final imaging quality. Conversely, image-quality-oriented end-to-end design often entails high computational complexity for both front-end optics and back-end algorithms, impeding the development of large-aperture designs. To address these issues, we present a hybrid design scheme that begins with end-to-end optimization of the DA with the simplest image processing algorithm, i.e., Wiener filter, significantly reducing the back-end complexity. Subsequently, we apply complex algorithm fine-tuning to further enhance image quality. We validate this hybrid design scheme through extensive investigations on several DA imagers. Our results demonstrate a reduction in memory requirement by approximately 50
Zhang et al. (Tue,) studied this question.