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Dynamic optical wavefront synthesizer- design, fabrication and systems integration (Wavesynth)

Subject Area Measurement Systems
Term from 2017 to 2024
Project identifier Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 390737909
 
Final Report Year 2024

Final Report Abstract

Based on the technological progress in the field of microtechnologies and microoptics, optical elements with tunable optical functionalities (e.g. tunable focal length) have become very popular within the past two decades. Tunable microlenses, for example, have been demonstrated based on a variety of different approaches such as e.g. deformable liquid microlenses. In spite of the multitude of different technological approaches, the variety of optical systems integrating elements with tunable optical functionality is still limited. This is mostly due to a mismatch of the necessary tuning range for optimized systems designs and the tunable parameter range which can be realized technologically. In the project “Dynamic optical wavefront synthesizer – design, fabrication and systems integration (WaveSynth) we focussed on the extension of the available tuning range and parameter variation available for tunable optical elements. To this end we focussed on the well-established concept of the Alvarez Lohmann phase plates which upon relative lateral shift can generate a variable wavefront. While the extension and optimization of tunable parameters has been one major objective of the project, specifically the combination with systematic optical systems design for enhanced systems performance is adressed in the conducted research. The comparatively large diameters of the elements that can be realised with Alvarez Lohmann elements prove to be particularly advantageous in this context. This opens up new design possibilities, which were used in the WaveSynth project, for example, to optimise innovative zoom systems based on tunable elements. The demonstration and systems integration of a tunable diffractive achromate based on such phase plates represents one of the scientific interesting results of the project. The demonstration and systems integration of a lithographically fabricated diffractive tunable achromat for colour correction in zoom systems is a further important outcome. Furthermore, innovative technological processes for the lithographic production of diffractive optical components in novel optical materials were investigated. An optical system setup for light-sheet fluorescence microscopy and optimised setups for wavefront detection using the so-called phase-retrieval method served as application platforms. The project results show in a convincing manner that the combination of optical systems design with technological experience and competencies provides a fruitful platform for scientific success.

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