Controllable parabolic lensed liquid-core optical fiber by using electrostatic force.

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Optical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Traditional optical fiber systems require external lenses with fixed parameters to adjust light paths.
• Spherical aberration and small focusable spot sizes necessitate complex lens combinations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a novel method for fabricating liquid-core lensed fibers with adjustable focal lengths.
• To overcome the limitations of fixed external lens accessories in optical fiber systems.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of liquid-core lensed fibers by filling hollow Teflon AF and silicate fibers with water and NOA61, respectively.
• Control of liquid lens radius of curvature and focal length by adjusting applied voltage.
• Solidification of NOA61 using UV curing to create solid-state parabolic lenses.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated adjustable focal length in Teflon AF fibers (0.628 mm to 0.111 mm) and silicate fibers (0.274 mm to 0.08 mm) by varying applied voltage (0-3.2 KV).
• Achieved voltage-controlled parabolic lens formation.
• Simulation indicated potential for focused spot sizes as small as 2 µm.

Conclusions:

• Liquid-core lensed fibers offer a unique, voltage-tunable solution for optical path adjustment.
• The developed method allows for precise control over focal length and lens shape, enhancing optical fiber performance.
• Solid-state parabolic lensed fibers can be produced for advanced optical applications.