Biomimetic Accommodating Lens with Implementation in MEMS

摘要

We describe an accommodating lens patterned after the crystalline lens of the eye. Our biomimetic MEMS design calls to mind the zonules of zinn which pull radially to stretch the crystalline lens of the eye to modify the optical path. We present initial characterization of the prototype macro-scale device constructed through traditional machining techniques and using a PDMS polymer lens. Testing of the macro-scale lens indicated a 22% change in focal length through the range of radial stretching, with degradation of the spherical lens shape but no hysteresis after low-cycle testing. We also demonstrate a MEMS implementation of the lens actuator constructed using the Sandia SUMMiT-V™ surface micromachining process. The optical path of this system is approximately 300 microns in diameter, providing a platform to potential applications improving mobile camera optics and medical imaging.