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3D printed micro-optical structures: Design and optimization of microlens arrays and gratings for high-precision sensing and display systems
- 1 Nanjing University
- 2 Meiji University
* Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The use of 3D printing in micro-optics manufacturing presents new possibilities for precision, flexibility and customisation in manufacturing advanced optical devices. It describes the design and optimisation of 3D-printed MLAs and gratings for high-resolution sensing and display devices. Comparing stereolithography (SLA) and two-photon polymerization (2PP) as primary fabrication methods we find the strengths and weaknesses of each, with 2PP being sub-micron resolution and best suited for complex micro-optical design. A hybrid approach combining SLA for coarse structures and 2PP for finer structures allows for scale-up. The choice of materials, especially the use of high-refractive-index nanoparticle composites, can help to improve optical properties. By imaging and spectral measurement, we find that the optimized MLAs exhibit better focal resolution and uniform light scattering, while the 1 m-pitch gratings possess high diffraction efficiency throughout the visible range. These findings illustrate how 3D printing with advanced materials offers a cost-effective and feasible option to fabricate individualised micro-optical instruments for imaging and spectral research.
Keywords
3D printing, micro-optics, microlens arrays, gratings, two-photon polymerization
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Cite this article
Zhao,W.;Huang,L. (2024). 3D printed micro-optical structures: Design and optimization of microlens arrays and gratings for high-precision sensing and display systems. Advances in Engineering Innovation,14,7-11.
Data availability
The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study will be available from the authors upon reasonable request.
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Journal：Advances in Engineering Innovation
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