Light field 3D endoscope based on electro-wetting lens array

Abstract

In this study, we propose light field 3D endoscope using the electro-wetting lens array. Compared to conventional light field endoscope technology, the electro-wetting micro lens array are not only switchable between 2D and 3D, but also adjusts the focal length to capture the varying images and control the diopter sufficiently fast (ms). The electro-wetting lens array has diameter 2.4mm and diopter -20D ~ 28D with 40ms of response time, which is an appropriate to get an endoscopic image. We also compare with light field 3D endoscope using a fixed focus lens array and our proposed light field 3D endoscope under the same condition. To achieve the electro-wetting lens array, parylene C layer are deposited on the silicon through hole substrate. In this study, we focus on the electro-wetting lens array fabrication and feasibility of a light field 3D system based on the electro-wetting micro lens array, accordingly we do not assemble the whole system in the real endoscope. Although it is performed on the optical stage, we successfully captured a light field images of several objects and reproduce a 3D image. Hereafter research, we will apply extended depth-of-field algorithm in our technology to improve the 3D image resolution and depth of field.