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We propose a pneumatically actuated microlens array on a
transparent and elastic thin film made of cured PDMS
(polydimethylsiloxane). The lenses are 120 µm in diameter and are
arranged on the top surface of 200 µm-thick base film. The lenses
can be moved by pneumatic actuators implemented in the bottom
side of the film. Since the lens array and the base film are made of
an elastic material PDMS, this array could be applied to the
surfaces of curved or flexible devices. Properties of PDMS as a
material for optical elements are investigated through the
evaluation of the system. We also propose a simulation technique to
analyze Mechanical and optical properties of deformable optical
elements by combining finite element method and ray tracing
technique. The optical properties of the fabricated lens array were
analyzed using the simulator. This research is a first approach to
construct a thin and elastic scanning lens array which can be
applied for sensing or imaging applications.
actuator deforms and actuates lenses when some of the chambers
are pressurized or depressurized through the capillaries connected
to the chambers. The size of capillary is 20 µm in
width and 20 µm in length.
References :
Kazunori Hoshino and Isao Shimoyama, “An Elastic Thin-Film Microlens Array with a Pneumatic Actuator,” 14th IEEE International Conference on Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS '01), pp. 321-324, Interlaken, Switzerland, Jan. 21-25, 2001. [Proceedings]
Kazunori Hoshino, Isao Shimoyama, “Analysis of Elastic Micro Optical Components under Large Deformation,” Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering, vol. 13, no. 1, pp. 149-154, 2003. [Paper]
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