Adaptive liquid lens driven by elastomer actuator

When a liquid droplet is filled in the hole of a dielectric elastomer (DE) film, a liquid lens is prepared. By applying a DC voltage to the DE film, the liquid lens can be actuated. As a comparison, two liquid lenses, one in a millimeter scale and the other in a submillimeter scale, are demonstrated. In a relaxed state, the focal length of each liquid lens is the longest. In an actuated state, the diameter of each lens is reduced. As a result, their focal length is tuned. Here, the DE film functions as an actuator. Due to the biconvex shape and smooth liquid surface, each liquid lens can provide good optical performance. They also possess the merits of simple fabrication, compact structure, and easy operation. In contrast to the bigger liquid lens, the smaller one can present a better mechanical stability without the concern of the gravitational effect.