Parametric multiphysics study of focus-variable silicone lenses

Abstract

By exploiting their inherent elasticity, focus-variable silicone lenses shift their focal length reversibly when deformed. Although biconcave and meniscus lenses contribute to optical systems just as well as biconvex lenses, studies primarily revolve around the latter. Thus, we aim to reveal the focal length shifting potential of all aforementioned lens types. Covering a wide parameter range of varying lens curvature radii, we present a coupled mechanical and optical simulation in which a lens deformation is applied. The results show significant differences in focal length shifting effectiveness for different lens types. Within the domains of specific lens types, trends in this effectiveness emerge for different combinations of curvature radii. Matching these radii when incorporating adaptive silicone lenses in optical systems may guide optics engineers toward more effective system designs through this study.