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Li Y, Wu ST. Advancing from scalar to vectorial liquid crystal holography: a paradigm shift. LIGHT, SCIENCE & APPLICATIONS 2024; 13:207. [PMID: 39179526 PMCID: PMC11343863 DOI: 10.1038/s41377-024-01538-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
A versatile and tunable vectorial holography is demonstrated based on single-layer single-material liquid crystal superstructures. This novel approach advances the process from scalar to vectorial holography, opening new opportunities for advanced cryptography, super‑resolution imaging, and many other tunable photonic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Shin-Tson Wu
- College of Optics and Photonics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA.
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2
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Sun ZJ, Liu YQ, Wan JY, Liu XQ, Han DD, Chen QD, Zhang YL. Reconfigurable Microlens Array Enables Tunable Imaging Based on Shape Memory Polymers. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:9581-9592. [PMID: 38332526 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c01030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Microlens arrays (MLAs) with a tunable imaging ability are core components of advanced micro-optical systems. Nevertheless, tunable MLAs generally suffer from high power consumption, an undeformable rigid body, large and complex systems, or limited focal length tunability. The combination of reconfigurable smart materials with MLAs may lead to distinct advantages including programmable deformation, remote manipulation, and multimodal tunability. However, unlike photopolymers that permit flexible structuring, the fabrication of tunable MLAs and compound eyes (CEs) based on transparent smart materials is still rare. In this work, we report reconfigurable MLAs that enable tunable imaging based on shape memory polymers (SMPs). The smart MLAs with closely packed 200 × 200 microlenses (40.0 μm in size) are fabricated via a combined technology that involves wet etching-assisted femtosecond laser direct writing of MLA templates on quartz, soft lithography for MLA duplication using SMPs, and the mechanical heat setting for programmable reconfiguration. By stretching or squeezing the shape memory MLAs at the transition temperature (80 °C), the size, profiles, and spatial distributions of the microlenses can be programmed. When the MLA is stretched from 0 to 120% (area ratio), the focal length is increased from 116 to 283 μm. As a proof of concept, reconfigurable MLAs and a 3D CE with a tunable field of view (FOV, 160-0°) have been demonstrated in which the thermally triggered shape memory deformation has been employed for tunable imaging. The reconfigurable MLAs and CEs with a tunable focal length and adjustable FOV may hold great promise for developing smart micro-optical systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Juan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Optoelectronics, College of Electronic Science and Engineering, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Yu-Qing Liu
- Center for Advanced Optoelectronic Functional Materials Research, and Key Laboratory for UV Emitting Materials and Technology of Ministry of Education, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Physics Education, Northeast Normal University, 5268 Renmin Street, Changchun 130024, China
| | - Jia-Yi Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Optoelectronics, College of Electronic Science and Engineering, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Xue-Qing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Optoelectronics, College of Electronic Science and Engineering, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Dong-Dong Han
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Optoelectronics, College of Electronic Science and Engineering, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Qi-Dai Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Optoelectronics, College of Electronic Science and Engineering, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Yong-Lai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Optoelectronics, College of Electronic Science and Engineering, Jilin University, 2699 Qianjin Street, Changchun 130012, China
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3
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Zhong Y, Yu H, Wen Y, Zhou P, Guo H, Zou W, Lv X, Liu L. Novel Optofluidic Imaging System Integrated with Tunable Microlens Arrays. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:11994-12004. [PMID: 36655899 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c20191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Optofluidic tunable microlens arrays (MLAs) can manipulate and control light propagation using fluids. Lately, their applicability to miniature lab-on-a-chip systems is being extensively researched. However, it is difficult to incorporate 3D MLAs directly in a narrow microfluidic channel using common techniques. This has resulted in limited research on variable focal length imaging with optofluidic 3D MLAs. In this paper, we propose a method for fabricating MLAs in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based microchannels via electrohydrodynamic jet (E-jet) printing to achieve optofluidic tunable MLAs. Using this method, MLAs of diameters 15 to 80 μm can be fabricated in microfluidic channels with widths of 200 and 300 μm. By alternately using solutions with different refractive indices in the microchannel, the optofluidic microlenses exhibit reversible modulation properties while retaining the morphologies and refractive indices of the microlenses. The focal length of the resulting optofluidic chip can have threefold tunability, thereby achieving an imaging depth of approximately 450 μm. This outstanding advantage is useful in observing microspheres and cells flowing in the microfluidic system. Thus, the proposed optofluidic chip exhibits great potential for cell counting and imaging applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Shenyang110016, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang110016, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100049, China
| | - Haibo Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Shenyang110016, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang110016, China
| | - Yangdong Wen
- Institute of Urban Rail Transportation, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu610000, China
| | - Peilin Zhou
- College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou450002, China
| | - Hongji Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Shenyang110016, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang110016, China
| | - Wuhao Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Shenyang110016, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang110016, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100049, China
| | - Xiaofeng Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Shenyang110016, China
- Northeastern University, Shenyang110016, China
| | - Lianqing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Shenyang110016, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang110016, China
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4
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Yang ZX, Shou QL, Zhou X, Zhang XJ, Huang W, Chen L. Wide field of view chiral imaging with a liquid crystal planar lens enabled by digitalized nanogratings. OPTICS EXPRESS 2022; 30:44864-44877. [PMID: 36522900 DOI: 10.1364/oe.475180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
To compensate for the inability for polarization imaging by conventional methods, metasurface optics with compactness and multi-function emerge as an approach to provide images with different linear and circular polarizations. Here, we propose a liquid crystal (LC) geometric phase-based chiral imaging lens (CIL) that simultaneously forms images of objects with opposite helicity. The CIL (Diameter 2.3 cm) was optimized by a spatial multiplexing algorithm and realized using the digital holography technique, where the LC domains were regulated by pixelated nanogratings with varied orientation. We investigated the potential of the patterning technique toward high order LC alignment by balancing the periodicity and depth of the nanogratings. The CIL exhibited a wide field of view of ±20°, which is attributed to the self- assembling effects of LC molecules. The compactness, lightness, and ability to produce chiral images of the LC CIL even at large angles have significant potential for practical polarization imaging.
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Choi IS, Park S, Jeon S, Kwon YW, Park R, Taylor RA, Kyhm K, Hong SW. Strain-tunable optical microlens arrays with deformable wrinkles for spatially coordinated image projection on a security substrate. MICROSYSTEMS & NANOENGINEERING 2022; 8:98. [PMID: 36119375 PMCID: PMC9474807 DOI: 10.1038/s41378-022-00399-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
As a new concept in materials design, a variety of strategies have been developed to fabricate optical microlens arrays (MLAs) that enable the miniaturization of optical systems on the micro/nanoscale to improve their characteristic performance with unique optical functionality. In this paper, we introduce a cost-effective and facile fabrication process on a large scale up to ~15 inches via sequential lithographic methods to produce thin and deformable hexagonally arranged MLAs consisting of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Simple employment of oxygen plasma treatment on the prestrained MLAs effectively harnessed the spontaneous formation of highly uniform nanowrinkled structures all over the surface of the elastomeric microlenses. With strain-controlled tunability, unexpected optical diffraction patterns were characterized by the interference combination effect of the microlens and deformable nanowrinkles. Consequently, the hierarchically structured MLAs presented here have the potential to produce desirable spatial arrangements, which may provide easily accessible opportunities to realize microlens-based technology by tunable focal lengths for more advanced micro-optical devices and imaging projection elements on unconventional security substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- In Sik Choi
- Department of Cogno-Mechatronics Engineering, Department of Optics and Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241 Republic of Korea
| | - Seongho Park
- Research Center for Dielectric and Advanced Matter Physics, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241 Republic of Korea
- Department of Physics, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3PU UK
| | - Sangheon Jeon
- Department of Cogno-Mechatronics Engineering, Department of Optics and Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241 Republic of Korea
| | - Young Woo Kwon
- Department of Nano-Fusion Technology, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241 Republic of Korea
| | - Rowoon Park
- Department of Cogno-Mechatronics Engineering, Department of Optics and Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241 Republic of Korea
| | | | - Kwangseuk Kyhm
- Department of Cogno-Mechatronics Engineering, Department of Optics and Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241 Republic of Korea
| | - Suck Won Hong
- Department of Cogno-Mechatronics Engineering, Department of Optics and Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241 Republic of Korea
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6
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Ma LL, Li CY, Pan JT, Ji YE, Jiang C, Zheng R, Wang ZY, Wang Y, Li BX, Lu YQ. Self-assembled liquid crystal architectures for soft matter photonics. LIGHT, SCIENCE & APPLICATIONS 2022; 11:270. [PMID: 36100592 PMCID: PMC9470592 DOI: 10.1038/s41377-022-00930-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Self-assembled architectures of soft matter have fascinated scientists for centuries due to their unique physical properties originated from controllable orientational and/or positional orders, and diverse optic and photonic applications. If one could know how to design, fabricate, and manipulate these optical microstructures in soft matter systems, such as liquid crystals (LCs), that would open new opportunities in both scientific research and practical applications, such as the interaction between light and soft matter, the intrinsic assembly of the topological patterns, and the multidimensional control of the light (polarization, phase, spatial distribution, propagation direction). Here, we summarize recent progresses in self-assembled optical architectures in typical thermotropic LCs and bio-based lyotropic LCs. After briefly introducing the basic definitions and properties of the materials, we present the manipulation schemes of various LC microstructures, especially the topological and topographic configurations. This work further illustrates external-stimuli-enabled dynamic controllability of self-assembled optical structures of these soft materials, and demonstrates several emerging applications. Lastly, we discuss the challenges and opportunities of these materials towards soft matter photonics, and envision future perspectives in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Ling Ma
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Chao-Yi Li
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jin-Tao Pan
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yue-E Ji
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Chang Jiang
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ren Zheng
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ze-Yu Wang
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yu Wang
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Bing-Xiang Li
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
- College of Electronic and Optical Engineering & College of Flexible Electronics (Future Technology), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Yan-Qing Lu
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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7
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Yin K, Hsiang EL, Zou J, Li Y, Yang Z, Yang Q, Lai PC, Lin CL, Wu ST. Advanced liquid crystal devices for augmented reality and virtual reality displays: principles and applications. LIGHT, SCIENCE & APPLICATIONS 2022; 11:161. [PMID: 35637183 PMCID: PMC9151772 DOI: 10.1038/s41377-022-00851-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and photonic devices play a pivotal role to augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). The recently emerging high-dynamic-range (HDR) mini-LED backlit LCDs significantly boost the image quality and brightness and reduce the power consumption for VR displays. Such a light engine is particularly attractive for compensating the optical loss of pancake structure to achieve compact and lightweight VR headsets. On the other hand, high-resolution-density, and high-brightness liquid-crystal-on-silicon (LCoS) is a promising image source for the see-through AR displays, especially under high ambient lighting conditions. Meanwhile, the high-speed LCoS spatial light modulators open a new door for holographic displays and focal surface displays. Finally, the ultrathin planar diffractive LC optical elements, such as geometric phase LC grating and lens, have found useful applications in AR and VR for enhancing resolution, widening field-of-view, suppressing chromatic aberrations, creating multiplanes to overcome the vergence-accommodation conflict, and dynamic pupil steering to achieve gaze-matched Maxwellian displays, just to name a few. The operation principles, potential applications, and future challenges of these advanced LC devices will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Yin
- College of Optics and Photonics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA
| | - En-Lin Hsiang
- College of Optics and Photonics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA
| | - Junyu Zou
- College of Optics and Photonics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA
| | - Yannanqi Li
- College of Optics and Photonics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA
| | - Zhiyong Yang
- College of Optics and Photonics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA
| | - Qian Yang
- College of Optics and Photonics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA
| | - Po-Cheng Lai
- College of Optics and Photonics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA
| | - Chih-Lung Lin
- College of Optics and Photonics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA
| | - Shin-Tson Wu
- College of Optics and Photonics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA.
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Hu H, Liu B, Li M, Zheng Z, Zhu WH. A Quadri-Dimensional Manipulable Laser with an Intrinsic Chiral Photoswitch. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2110170. [PMID: 35143699 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202110170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Dynamic and multi-dimensional manipulation of laser emission with light allows for optical coding, computing, and imaging photonic chips. However, the coupling balance between photonic resonance and transmission is a formidable challenge due to the uncontrollable chiral microcavity with photo-reversibility, which is limited to the multi-freedom of the laser with sustainable and repeatable output beams. Herein, a helical superstructure system with a unique intrinsic chiral photoswitch is developed for resolving the always pendent problems on organized defects in the microcavity. The unique intrinsic chirality based on the photoswitchable system allows laser emission with a sharp and narrow band-width, with both remarkable thermodynamic stability and robust fatigue-resistance. A quadri-dimensional manipulable laser, featuring wavelength-tunability, wavefront-shaping, spin angular momentum (SAM), and orbital angular momentum (OAM), is successfully established with the assistance of the photoresponsive intrinsic chiral superstructure with photoreversibility. This technology marks an important milestone, and sketches a future framework for the realms of nanophotonic information encoding, security imprinting, and integrated photonics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglong Hu
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Institute of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Binghui Liu
- School of Physics, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Mengqi Li
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Institute of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Zhigang Zheng
- School of Physics, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Wei-Hong Zhu
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Institute of Fine Chemicals, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
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9
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Monocular Real Time Full Resolution Depth Estimation Arrangement with a Tunable Lens. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12063141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This work introduces a real-time full-resolution depth estimation device, which allows integral displays to be fed with a real-time light-field. The core principle of the technique is a high-speed focal stack acquisition method combined with an efficient implementation of the depth estimation algorithm, allowing the generation of real time, high resolution depth maps. As the procedure does not depend on any custom hardware, if the requirements are met, the described method can turn any high speed camera into a 3D camera with true depth output. The concept was tested with an experimental setup consisting of an electronically variable focus lens, a high-speed camera, and a GPU for processing, plus a control board for lens and image sensor synchronization. The comparison with other state of the art algorithms shows our advantages in computational time and precision.
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Chen M, Li Z, Liu T, Wang Z, Chen Z, Liu K, Hu C, Ye M, Shi J, Zhang X. Spatial separation of azimuthally and radially polarized beams from non-polarized light waves based on the electrically controlled birefringence effect. OPTICS LETTERS 2022; 47:1069-1072. [PMID: 35230292 DOI: 10.1364/ol.449318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Based on the electrically controlled birefringence effect in liquid crystal materials, an effective method for spatially separating azimuthally and radially polarized beams from non-polarized incident light waves is proposed. The radially polarized beam was highly converged by using a microhole-patterned electrode and a planar photo-alignment layer to shape the initial liquid-crystal radial alignment and a gradient refractive index distribution with central axial symmetry after applying a voltage signal. Due to the intrinsic polarization sensitivity of nematic liquid-crystal materials, the shaped gradient refractive index only applies to extraordinary light waves, which then converge into a spot. Thus, the azimuthally and radially polarized beams are effectively separated. The proposed method demonstrates some advantages, such as low cost, miniaturization, and easy fabrication and integration with other functional devices. Thanks to the wideband electrically controlled birefringence of liquid-crystal materials, this light-wave manipulation to spatially separate azimuthally and radially polarized beams can also be performed over a wide wavelength range.
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Yang C, Wu B, Ruan J, Zhao P, Chen L, Chen D, Ye F. 3D-Printed Biomimetic Systems with Synergetic Color and Shape Responses Based on Oblate Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Droplets. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2006361. [PMID: 33522013 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202006361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Living organisms in nature have amazing control over their color, shape, and morphology in response to environmental stimuli for camouflage, communication, or reproduction. Inspired by the camouflage of the octopus via the elongation or contraction of its pigment cells, oblate cholesteric liquid crystal droplets are dispersed in a polymer matrix, serving as the role of pigment cells and showing structural color due to selective Bragg reflection by their periodic helical structure. The color of 3D-printed biomimetic systems can be tuned by changing the helical pitch via the chiral dopant concentration or temperature. When the oblate liquid crystal droplets are heated up to isotropic, the opaque and colored biomimetic systems become transparent and colorless. Meanwhile, the isotropic liquid crystal droplets tend to become spherical, causing volume contraction along the film plane and volume dilation in the perpendicular direction. The internal strain combined with the gradient distribution of the oblate isotropic liquid crystal droplets result in corresponding shape transformations. The camouflage of a biomimetic octopus and the blossom of a biomimetic flower, both of which show synergetic color and shape responses, are demonstrated to inspire the design of functional materials and intelligent devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenjing Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
- College of Energy Engineering and State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310027, P. R. China
| | - Baiheng Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
- College of Energy Engineering and State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310027, P. R. China
| | - Jian Ruan
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
| | - Peng Zhao
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
| | - Li Chen
- Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325001, P. R. China
| | - Dong Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310003, P. R. China
- College of Energy Engineering and State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310027, P. R. China
| | - Fangfu Ye
- Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325001, P. R. China
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12
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Chen J, Xu T, Zhao W, Ma LL, Chen D, Lu YQ. Photoresponsive thin films of well-synthesized azobenzene side-chain liquid crystalline polynorbornenes as command surface for patterned graphic writing. POLYMER 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2021.123492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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13
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Wang W, Yang W, Mei X, Li J, Sun X. Fabrication of self-aligning convergent waveguides of microlens arrays to collect and guide light. OPTICS EXPRESS 2021; 29:3327-3341. [PMID: 33770933 DOI: 10.1364/oe.413243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The optical properties of microlens arrays may be significantly affected by the optical crosstalk effect between adjacent lenses. Recently, this issue has triggered increasing attention in the scientific community. In this study, an integrated microlens array (MLA) consisting of self-aligning convergent waveguides of microlenses was fabricated. The optical crosstalk effect does not influence the performance of such system. Based on the self-focusing effect principle, self-writing of the waveguide array was achieved in a photosensitive polymer. The light collection and guiding performance of the MLA with and without thermal cross-linking treatment was analyzed in depth. The relation between the stray light and the filling rate of the MLA shows that a high filling rate decreases the optical crosstalk. Finally, an integrated MLA with a large area, high uniformity, and excellent optical performance was fabricated.
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Ahmed R, Butt H. Strain-Multiplex Metalens Array for Tunable Focusing and Imaging. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2003394. [PMID: 33643805 PMCID: PMC7887606 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202003394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Metalenses on a flexible template are engineered metal-dielectric interfaces that improve conventional imaging system and offer dynamic focusing and zooming capabilities by controlling the focal length and bandwidth through a mechanical or external stretch. However, realizing large-scale and cost-effective flexible metalenses with high yields in a strain-multiplex fashion remains as a great challenge. Here, single-pulsed, maskless light interference and imprinting technique is utilized to fabricate reconfigurable, flexible metalenses on a large-scale and demonstrate its strain-multiplex tunable focusing. Experiments, in accordance with the theory, show that applied stretch on the flexible-template reconfigurable diffractive metalenses (FDMLs) accurately mapped focused wavefront, bandwidth, and focal length. The surface relief metastructures consisted of metal-coated hemispherical cavities in a hexagonal close-packed arrangement to enhance tunable focal length, numerical aperture, and fill factor, FF ≈ 100% through normal and angular light illumination with external stretch. The strain-multiplex of FDMLs approach lays the foundation of a new class of large-scale, cost-effective metalens offering tunable light focusing and imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajib Ahmed
- School of EngineeringUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamB15 2TTUK
- Stanford School of MedicinePalo AltoCA94304United States
| | - Haider Butt
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringKhalifa UniversityAbu DhabiP.O. 127788UAE
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Perera K, Nemati A, Mann EK, Hegmann T, Jákli A. Converging Microlens Array Using Nematic Liquid Crystals Doped with Chiral Nanoparticles. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:4574-4582. [PMID: 33411492 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c21044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Nematic liquid crystals of achiral molecules or racemic mixtures of chiral ones form flat films when suspended in submillimeter size grids and submerged under water. Recently, it has been shown (Popov et al., 2017) that films of nematic liquid crystals doped with chiral molecules adopt biconvex lens shapes underwater. The curved shape together with degenerate planar anchoring leads to a radial variation of the optical axis along the plane of the film, providing a Pancharatnam-Berry-type phase lens that modifies geometric optical imaging. Here, we describe nematic liquid crystal microlenses formed by the addition of chiral nanoparticles. It is found that the helical twisting power of the nanoparticles, the key factor to form the lens, is about 400 μm-1, greater than that of the strongest molecular chiral dopants. We demonstrate imaging capabilities and measure the shape as well as the focal length of the chiral nanoparticle-doped liquid crystal lens. We show that measuring the shape of the lens allows one to calculate the helical pitch of the chiral nematic liquid crystal and thus determine the helical twisting power of the chiral ligand-capped nanoparticles. Such measurements require the use of only nanograms of chiral nanoparticles, which is 3 orders of magnitude less than that required by conventional techniques. Since NPs are sensitive to external stimuli such as light and electric and magnetic fields, the use of chiral NPs may allow the achievement of tunable optical properties for such microlens arrays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelum Perera
- Physics Department, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Ahlam Nemati
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Materials Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Elizabeth K Mann
- Physics Department, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Materials Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Torsten Hegmann
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Materials Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Antal Jákli
- Physics Department, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Materials Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
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Li Z, Xu M, Lu H, Ding Y. A polyvinyl alcohol microlens array with controlled curvature on discontinuous hydrophobic surface. J Mol Liq 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2020.114372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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McGinty CP, Salvato T, Salvato Z, Kolacz J, Gotjen HG, Spillmann CM. Large, Tunable Liquid Crystal Pretilt Achieved by Enhanced Out-of-Plane Reorientation of Azodye Thin Films. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2020; 36:8554-8559. [PMID: 32627557 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.0c01371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In-plane, or azimuthal, photo-reorientation of azodye films using polarized exposure makes them promising alignment layers for a host of liquid crystal (LC) applications beyond displays including beam steering, q-plates, liquid crystal elastomer origami, and control of active matter. Out-of-plane, or polar, reorientation of azodye films, which dictates the liquid crystal pretilt, has received far less attention. Spatial control over the full polar and azimuthal orientation enables the generation of complex patterns that have broad interests and applications. In this paper, we describe an enhanced out-of-plane reorientation in Brilliant Yellow films utilizing a two-step exposure and demonstrate a liquid crystal pretilt angle that is tunable over a range of 0-33° with the associated anchoring strength of the alignment layer being unaffected by the inclusion of a pretilt. We report an order of magnitude increase in both amplitude and tunability of the pretilt angle in terms of previous results for single photoalignment films. This is a significant result for liquid crystal applications because it offers a simple, scalable, single-component solution with the potential to provide three-dimensional (3-D) patternability of the LC director at the surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin P McGinty
- National Research Council, Research Associateship Program, Washington, District of Columbia 20001, United States
| | - Thomas Salvato
- Naval Research Enterprise Internship Program, Washington, District of Columbia 20036, United States
| | - Zachary Salvato
- Naval Research Enterprise Internship Program, Washington, District of Columbia 20036, United States
| | - Jakub Kolacz
- Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, District of Columbia 20375, United States
| | - Henry G Gotjen
- Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, District of Columbia 20375, United States
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