Variable Focal Length Liquid Crystal Lens Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid crystal lens structures can only provide the function of spherical lenses and lack the capability to function as aspherical lenses, limiting their optical versatility.
Innovation Solution
A variable focal length liquid crystal lens assembly is designed with a second electrode set that includes a matrix electric field generated by alternately arranged conductive lines, allowing for the adjustment of refractive index at different locations by controlling the orientation of liquid crystal molecules, thereby enabling both spherical and aspherical lens functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional liquid crystal lens structure with a single electrode set is used, then the structure is simple, but only spherical lens function can be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The second electrode set is divided into multiple electrode structures (first electrode structure with first conductive lines, second electrode structure with second conductive lines) that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows different regions of the liquid crystal layer to have different refractive indices, enabling both spherical and aspherical lens functions from a single device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of the liquid crystal lens by applying different voltages to different electrode structures. By dynamically adjusting the voltage patterns across the first and second conductive lines, the lens can switch between spherical and aspherical modes, and adjust focal length continuously, making the system adaptable to different optical requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the refractive index is uniform across the liquid crystal layer, then the structure is simple, but only spherical focusing can be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating spatially varying electric fields through the patterned conductive lines. Different regions of the liquid crystal layer experience different electric field strengths and directions, causing local variations in refractive index. This enables the formation of aspherical lens regions with specific focusing properties while maintaining spherical lens regions, all within the same liquid crystal layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electric field parameters (strength, direction, distribution) applied to different regions of the liquid crystal layer to achieve different optical functions. By adjusting the voltage magnitude and pattern across the electrode structures, the refractive index distribution can be dynamically modified to switch between spherical and aspherical lens modes.
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
The solution allows for the achievement of spherical or aspherical lens effects by adjusting the refractive index at various locations within the liquid crystal lens structure, enhancing optical versatility and focusing capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The first electrode layer includes a plurality of first conductive lines, the second electrode layer includes a plurality of second conductive lines, and the first conductive lines and the second conductive lines are separated from each other and arranged alternately for providing a matrix electric field to the liquid crystal layer
Implementation Method 2
the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer deflect and orient to form a texture which provides effects similar to an optical lens
Implementation Method 3
light is focused or diverged after passing through the liquid crystal lens structure in accordance with the arrangement of the liquid crystal molecules
Implementation Method 4
the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer deflect and orient to form a texture which provides effects similar to an optical lens
Data Source
AI summary
The instant disclosure provides a variable focal length liquid crystal lens assembly and structure thereof. The liquid crystal lens structure includes a first electrode set, a second electrode set and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first and second electrode sets. The second electrode set includes first and second electrode structures, the first electrode structure including a first transparent insulating layer and a first electrode layer disposed on the first transparent insulating layer, the second electrode structure including a second transparent insulating layer and a second electrode layer disposed on the second transparent insulating layer. The first electrode layer includes a plurality of first conductive lines and the second electrode layer includes a plurality of second conductive lines. The first and the second conductive lines are separated from each other and are arranged alternately for providing a matrix electric field to the liquid crystal layer.