초록 ▼

A variable-geometry lens controlling the distribution of light in a beam, having a deformable, transparent membrane supported by a liquid-filled, transparent multi-cellular structure forming an array of variable-power lenslets for controlling the divergence or convergence of a light beam. An optical

A variable-geometry lens controlling the distribution of light in a beam, having a deformable, transparent membrane supported by a liquid-filled, transparent multi-cellular structure forming an array of variable-power lenslets for controlling the divergence or convergence of a light beam. An optically clear liquid is pumped into or out of the structure to deform the membrane into an array of convex or concave lenslets having adjustable optical power to control energy distribution. The index of refraction of the structure matches the index of refraction of the liquid to render the structure invisible so that it has no effect on the beam. The shape of the cells and the curvature of the membrane covering the cell affects the distribution of light refracted by the array of lenslets. The thickness of the membrane may vary across each cell to further affect the curvature and distribution of light refracted by the array of lenslets. The variable-geometry lens may be formed of a single piece of flexible, transparent material incorporating both the deformable membrane and the multi-cellular supporting structure bonded to a flat or curved glass plate. The variable-geometry lens may also be formed of two pieces of flexible, transparent material each incorporating both the deformable membrane and the multi-cellular supporting structure, and bonded together such that lenslets are formed on both sides.

대표청구항 ▼

[ I claim:] [1.] An apparatus for controlling the distribution of a light beam, comprising:a liquid cell lens containing an optically transparent liquid and having at least one flexible optically transparent membrane, said membrane containing an array of microcells, each of said microcells being in

[ I claim:] [1.] An apparatus for controlling the distribution of a light beam, comprising:a liquid cell lens containing an optically transparent liquid and having at least one flexible optically transparent membrane, said membrane containing an array of microcells, each of said microcells being in fluid communication with each other, and at least one rigid member supporting said flexible optically transparent membrane; andmeans for communicating said optically transparent liquid to said liquid cell lens.