Ricoh recently exhibted a new optical device that enables
the playback of multiple formats using a single objective lens. According to Tech-On!, Ricoh's Multiple Format Compatible
Plate (MFCP) diffracts a laser's beam differently, depending on the disc being read.
When used in the optical system of the optical head in an optical disc drive,
the device can eliminate the need of so-called two lens setup in which two lenses are provided for use with CD/DVD and the
next-generation DVD such as Blu-ray Disc or HD DVD.
The company said that, while MFCP is required to be added, the number of
optical parts in the entire optical head may be decreased compared with the case of the two lens setup, thereby reducing the size of the
optical system of the optical head.
Tech-On! reports that Ricoh's optical device can only be applied to read-only
applications. However, the company is continuing development, hoping to push prices below $1. If you'd like to read more, the entire
article can be found here.
