Tunable Polymer Lens

Abstract

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.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Aug 04, 2008
Accession Number
ADA512972

Entities

People

  • A. Hiltner
  • E. Baer
  • G. Beadie
  • J. S. Shirk
  • M. J. Wiggins
  • M. L. Sandrock
  • M. Ponting
  • R. S. Lepkowicz
  • T. Kazmierczak
  • Yaping Yang

Organizations

  • United States Naval Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Alkenes
  • Assembly
  • Composite Materials
  • Construction
  • Coordinate Systems
  • Fabrication
  • Geometry
  • Liquid Crystals
  • Manufacturing
  • Materials
  • Materials Processing
  • Measurement
  • Mechanical Properties
  • Optical Properties
  • Optics
  • Polymers
  • Refractive Index

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Materials Science (Mechanical Engineering).
  • Nanocomposite Materials Science
  • Phased Array Antenna Design.