Liquid crystal lens array for 3D microscopy and endoscope application

Abstract

In this paper, we demonstrate two liquid crystal (LC) lens array devices for 3D microscope and 3D endoscope applications respectively. Compared with the previous 3D biomedical system, the proposed LC lens arrays are not only switchable between 2D and 3D modes, but also are able to adjust focus in both modes. The multi-function liquid crystal lens (MFLC-lens) array with dual layer electrode has diameter 1.42 mm, which is much smaller than the conventional 3D endoscope with double fixed lenses. The hexagonal liquid crystal micro-lens array (HLC-MLA) instead of fixed micro-lens array in 3D light field microscope can extend the effective depth of field from 60 um to 780 um. To achieve the LC lens arrays, a high-resistance layer needs to be coated on the electrodes to generate an ideal gradient electric-field distribution, which can induce a lens-like form of LC molecules. The parameters and characteristics of high-resistance layer are investigated and discussed with an aim to optimize the performance of liquid crystal lens arrays.