Optical engineering is a field that thrives on precision and creativity. It requires scientists to design systems that push the limits of what is physically possible. Tilman W. Stuhlinger, PhD, has spent 46 years mastering this balance. As the founder and vice president of Ruda Optical, he is known for tackling intricate projects that many would avoid.
A Lifelong Fascination With Optics
Dr. Stuhlinger’s interest in optics began early. “My father worked for NASA and introduced me to experts from the Lunar and Planetary Sciences Lab and the Optical Sciences Center,” he says. “That exposure sparked my passion for optics.”
Dr. Stuhlinger’s childhood curiosity extended to hands-on experiments. “I assembled a slide projector from various parts,” he recalls. “That encouraged my father to believe I had potential in this field.” Despite facing deafness, he pursued physics and astronomy at Vanderbilt University, followed by a master’s degree in physics and a master’s degree in optical sciences. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy in optics from the University of Arizona in 1984.
“The support of my professors helped me progress to graduate school. They believed in me and taught me to study and work better,” Dr. Stuhlinger says.
Building a Career in Optical Design
Dr. Stuhlinger began his career at Talandic Research Corp. in 1986. “I designed a phased array telescope consisting of several sub-telescopes,” he explains. This approach made it easier to achieve a larger diameter and field of view than similar projects at the time.
In 1994, Dr. Stuhlinger joined Ruda-Cardinal as vice president. He designed optical systems, assembled and specified lenses for external manufacturing, and collaborated with engineers and lab technicians to ensure tolerances could be realistically achieved.
For more than three decades, Dr. Stuhlinger has earned a reputation for solving complex problems. “When complicated design problems come our way, I don’t give up. I work until I find a solution, assuming it’s physically,” he states.
Tackling New Technologies
Throughout his career, Dr. Stuhlinger has embraced innovation. “Metaoptics is new in the field,” he explains. “It uses diffractive-type lenses with very small structures that act like a lens but without glass.”
Dr. Stuhlinger has also developed new design techniques involving diffraction gratings. “There are systems that use these gratings for lenses. Certain types are upcoming and that’s exciting,” he adds.
Dr. Stuhlinger is currently working on an eye surgery system. “It’s not revolutionary, but it’s an improvement over previous systems.”
Recognizing Achievements
Dr. Stuhlinger’s contributions include six patents, one for array telescopes. He also designed displays for business jet systems that fit around structural components, a task that required creative problem-solving. “People come to us for refractive optical systems because they know we can handle complex designs,” he explains.
His work has earned Dr. Stuhlinger recognition as a leader in optical engineering. Membership in the Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers keeps him connected to industry advancements. He also volunteers as a journal paper reviewer, sharing knowledge with the scientific community.
Life Beyond Engineering
Outside of work, Dr. Stuhlinger enjoys hiking, traveling, and attending symphony concerts. He volunteers at planetarium open-house events, where he shares his love of optics with the public. “Explaining concepts like polarization to visitors is rewarding,” he says.
Dr. Stuhlinger credits his success to hard work, creativity, and the values instilled by his parents. “They were role models. Without their influence, my path might have been different,” he notes.
Looking Forward: Passing Knowledge to the Next Generation
Dr. Stuhlinger plans to continue contributing to Ruda Optical while mentoring younger engineers. “I like to help younger engineers with the tricks of the trade. They can build on that and do things even further than I have,” he says.
Through decades of research and innovation, Dr. Stuhlinger has shown that persistence and curiosity can overcome challenges. His legacy will live on through the solutions he has created and the engineers he continues to inspire.
