3A17 A Liquid Crystal Lens with an Intermediate Insulating Layer

Abstract

A new liquid crystal lens of any size is reported. A dielectric slab is inserted between a liquid crystal layer and one of the two electrodes. A nonuniform electric field produced by the electric charges in the electrodes and at the surfaces of the dielectric medium and the liquid crystal distributes in the liquid crystal layer. A bell-like refractive index distribution is thus formed, making the cell behave as a lens. The focal length of the lens is a function of the applied voltage. The lens acts as a magnifying glass is demonstrated as an example.