Electro-optic variable focal-length lens using PLZT ceramic

Abstract

Proposed is an electro-optic (E-O) variable focal-length lens by combining EO material with numerous transparent fine electrodes on its surface. Coating indium tin oxide transparent electrodes on a lanthanum-modified lead zirconate titanate (9/65/35) ceramic plate and introducing a parabolic index profile with dc voltage, we successfully demonstrate a positive EO variable focal-length lens, obtaining its focal length from infinity to 1 m with applied voltage up to 300 V to an electrode gap of 50 microm. Theoretical analysis is also given, together with a discussion for improving aberration and resolving power.