Tunable polymer lens.
A new type of solid-state variable focal length lens is described. It is based on shape changes in an elastomeric membrane driven by compression of a reservoir of a polymer gel. A novel fabrication process based on individual lens components allows for customization of lens power based on the desired application. The lens shape as a function of applied compressive strain is measured using direct surface profile measurements. The focal length of a solid state lens was reversibly changed by a factor of 1.9. Calculated back focal lengths of the lens were consistent with experimental measurements.
Beadie
G
G
Division of Optical Sciences, U. S. Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20375, USA. guy.beadie@nrl.navy.mil
Sandrock
M L
ML
Wiggins
M J
MJ
Lepkowicz
R S
RS
Shirk
J S
JS
Ponting
M
M
Yang
Y
Y
Kazmierczak
T
T
Hiltner
A
A
Baer
E
E
D003198:Computer Simulation; D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D020724:Elastomers / Q000737:chemistry*; D004867:Equipment Design; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D007909:Lenses; D008567:Membranes, Artificial; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D011108:Polymers / Q000737:chemistry*
D020724:Elastomers; D008567:Membranes, Artificial; D011108:Polymers