Development of the viewing distance measuring device in smartphone use

Area of Science:

• Optics and Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering Fabrication

Background:

• Traditional lens fabrication can be costly and time-consuming.
• The development of low-cost, adaptable methods for optical components is crucial for prototyping and evaluation, especially in healthcare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel, cost-effective method for fabricating lenses using a 3D-printed micro chamber.
• To demonstrate control over lens shape through pressure manipulation of a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane.
• To enable the production of diverse lens types (bi-convex, plano-convex, concave) for potential applications in healthcare.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a micro chamber using a three-dimensional (3-D) printer.
• Control of a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane's shape by adjusting internal chamber pressure.
• Casting of ultraviolet-curable resin onto the shaped PDMS membrane to form lenses.
• Varying chamber pressure and lid geometry to produce different lens types.

Main Results:

• Successful fabrication of three distinct lens types: bi-convex, plano-convex, and concave.
• Demonstration of a low-cost approach to lens manufacturing.
• The method allows for tunable lens shapes based on controlled pressure and chamber design.

Conclusions:

• The presented 3D-printed micro chamber method offers a low-cost solution for lens fabrication.
• This technique facilitates the rapid and economical production of pilot or evaluation devices for healthcare.
• The pressure-controlled membrane shaping provides a versatile platform for creating custom optical components.