Adaptive Holographic Optical Element via Dielectric Elastomer Actuation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current holographic optical elements (HOEs) are inflexible and cannot change their optical properties after recording, limiting their adaptability in applications such as display systems and sensor systems, where dynamic optical functions are required.
Innovation Solution
The integration of holograms with dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) allows for controlled deformation of the holograms through electrical voltage, enabling adaptive changes in the optical functions of HOEs by varying the diffraction properties, such as playback angle and wavelength, through mechanical deformation of the elastomer film.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional holographic optical elements are used, then the optical properties are stable and well-defined, but the adaptability and ability to change optical functions dynamically are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by integrating dielectric elastomer actuators with the hologram, enabling the optical element to dynamically change its diffraction properties (playback angle, wavelength) through electrical control. The elastomer layer deforms under applied voltage, mechanically adjusting the holographic grating structure in real-time, thus transforming a static optical element into an adaptive system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining holographic film with dielectric elastomer actuator layers. This composite structure integrates the optical functionality of the hologram with the mechanical actuation capability of the elastomer, creating a multi-functional system that achieves both optical performance and adaptability within a single integrated element.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple HOEs are used to achieve different optical functions, then the versatility is improved, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a single holographic optical element that can perform multiple optical functions through dynamic reconfiguration. By controlling the dielectric elastomer actuator, the same physical hologram can adjust its playback angle and wavelength to serve different optical purposes, replacing what would traditionally require multiple separate HOEs.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic reconfiguration capability allows one holographic element to assume multiple functional states. The elastomer actuator enables real-time adjustment of diffraction properties, permitting a single component to replace multiple static components that would otherwise be needed to achieve the same versatility.
3Manufacturing precision
If the hologram structure is made rigid for stable optical properties, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the ability to deform and adapt optically is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes flexible thin films by employing a dielectric elastomer layer integrated with the holographic film. This flexible substrate allows the hologram to be mechanically deformed through electrical actuation while maintaining the precision of the recorded grating structure. The elastomer's flexibility enables dynamic shape change without compromising the underlying holographic pattern's manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a rigid, static hologram to a dynamic structure where the elastomer layer can be deformed on demand. The holographic grating is recorded with high precision in the elastomer medium, which then allows controlled mechanical deformation to adjust optical properties, combining manufacturing precision with dynamic adaptability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables HOEs to dynamically adjust their optical characteristics, enhancing their adaptability and functionality in applications like data glasses, lab-on-chip systems, and lidar sensors, reducing the need for multiple HOEs and compensating for drift effects in optical systems.
Implementation Method 1
By controlling the DEAs, namely by applying an electrical voltage, an electrostatic pressure is built up, which leads to a mechanical deformation of the elastomer film
Implementation Method 2
The diffraction grating of the hologram in the volume of a holographic film ensures deformability
Data Source
AI summary
A holographic optical element (HOE). The HOE includes a hologram, and an electroactive polymer (EAP), in particular a dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA). The electroactive polymer includes at least one elastomer layer, in particular an elastomer film, arranged between two electrodes, and the hologram is applied to an electrode of the electroactive polymer. The hologram or a holographic function which can be provided by means of the hologram, and in particular diffraction properties of the hologram, can be adapted by means of a controllable deformation of the electroactive polymer. A method for producing such a holographic optical element is also described.