Adaptive Lenses Based On Soft Electroactive Materials

Keywords

Adaptive optics; Dielectric elastomer; Electrostativematerials; Focal length; Imaging; PVC gel

Abstract

Soft electroactive materials including dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gels have recently been extensively investigated. These smart materials can effectively respond to an electric field, resulting in shape deformation. In addition to artificial muscles, actuators, sensors, and micro-electromechanical systems, they can be used to prepare various adaptive lenses with unique features such as a simple fabrication, compact structure, good flexibility, and light weight. In contrast to DEAs, PVC gels can provide exciting opportunities for emerging applications in imaging, sensing, optical communication, biomedical engineering, and displays. In this review paper, the underlying physical mechanisms of these two electroactive materials are explained first, and then some recent progress in their application in macro-sized lenses and microlens arrays is presented. Finally, future perspectives of the PVC gels are discussed.

Publication Date

7-4-2018

Publication Title

Applied Sciences (Switzerland)

Volume

8

Issue

7

Document Type

Review

Personal Identifier

scopus

DOI Link

https://doi.org/10.3390/app8071085

Socpus ID

85049627621 (Scopus)

Source API URL

https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/85049627621

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