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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 12, 2026

Fabrication Process of Silicone-based Dielectric Elastomer Actuators
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Published on: February 1, 2016

Tunable lenses using transparent dielectric elastomer actuators.

Samuel Shian1, Roger M Diebold, David R Clarke

  • 1School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, USA. sshian@seas.harvard.edu

Optics Express
|April 11, 2013
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

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We developed a simple, compact adaptive lens using an elastomer-liquid system and an electroactive polymer actuator. This novel lens achieves over 100% focal length tunability in under a second.

Area of Science:

  • Optics and Photonics
  • Materials Science
  • Biomedical Engineering

Background:

  • Traditional lens assemblies face limitations in compactness, cost, and flexibility.
  • Adaptive lenses offer improved performance but can be complex.
  • There is a need for simpler, more compact adaptive lens solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present a novel elastomer-liquid lens system for adaptive optics.
  • To demonstrate a compact and simplified adaptive lens design.
  • To achieve significant focal length tunability with a fast response time.

Main Methods:

  • Fabrication of an adaptive lens using a frame, passive membrane, dielectric elastomer actuator membrane, and liquid.
  • Integration of an inline, transparent electroactive polymer actuator.

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Last Updated: May 12, 2026

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Published on: February 1, 2016

Free-form Light Actuators — Fabrication and Control of Actuation in Microscopic Scale
08:17

Free-form Light Actuators — Fabrication and Control of Actuation in Microscopic Scale

Published on: May 25, 2016

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  • Analysis of membrane deformation under geometrical constraints.

    • Main Results:

    • Demonstrated a focal length variation exceeding 100%.
    • Achieved response times of less than one second.
    • Showcased a minimal component count for enhanced simplicity and compactness.

    Conclusions:

    • The proposed elastomer-liquid lens system offers a promising approach to adaptive optics.
    • The design allows for significant focal length tunability and rapid response.
    • Optimization of lens dimensions can further enhance the focusing dynamic range.