Optical properties with high non-linearity such as a modulation transfer function (MTF) are efficiently optimized at high speed compared to conventional methods. An optimal solution of an optical system is obtained in a first optimization unit using a merit function on aberration. Weights or target values of the merit function on aberration is automatically adjusted in a second optimization unit in a manner that an evaluated value of the MTF or the like approaches a desired value. The first optimization unit re-optimizes the optical system using the weights or target values which have been automatically adjusted. Thus, automated is a function equivalent to the operation which has been conducted by a designer such as adjustment to weights or target values.

In an imaging lens suitable for image reading of a four-lens element configuration comprising, successively from the object side, positive, positive, negative, and positive lenses, at least one surface of the fourth lens is made aspherical, whereby lighter weight and lower cost are achieved, while various kinds of aberration are corrected. The four-lens element imaging lens comprises, successively from the object side, positive first and second lenses L.sub.1 and L.sub.2 each having a surface on the object side convex toward the object side, a negative third lens L.sub.3 having a surface on the image side concave toward the image side, and a positive fourth lens L.sub.4 having at least one aspheric surface.