Linear micro lens arrays are mainly used for fiber to fiber or laser to fiber collimation and coupling, and are commonly used in scenarios such as semiconductor lasers and telecommunications equipment.
Linear microlens array is a kind of optical element composed of multiple microlenses in a linear arrangement. Usually, fused silica or silicon material is used as the substrate, which has the characteristics of short focus, high numerical aperture, high integration, etc. It is widely used in the fields of fiber coupling, laser alignment, beam shaping and near-infrared optical systems.
The working principle of linear microlenses is mainly based on the refraction of light. When light is incident on a microlens, the refractive index of the lens material is different from that of the surrounding medium, causing the light to refract and change its propagation direction, achieving functions such as focusing, collimation, or divergence of the light.
Application scenarios
Fiber coupling and collimation: Linear micro lens array is an ideal choice for fiber coupling and collimation. By using in conjunction with light sources such as semiconductor laser diodes, effective fiber coupling can be achieved, improving the transmission quality and stability of optical signals.
Laser processing: In the field of laser processing, linear micro lens arrays can be used for shaping and focusing laser beams, achieving accurate material cutting, welding, and other processing processes.
Near infrared optical system: Due to its excellent optical performance in the near-infrared band, linear micro lens arrays are widely used in optical systems such as near-infrared lasers and telecommunications equipment.
manufacturing process
Lithography and etching method: The lens pattern is transferred onto the substrate material through photolithography process, and then the pattern is etched out using etching technology. This method has sub micron machining accuracy and is suitable for mass manufacturing of large-scale micro lens arrays.
Hot remelting method: Coating a layer of photoresist on the substrate and exposing it to ultraviolet light through a mask to form a circular pattern. Then heat it to a specific temperature to soften the photoresist and shrink it into a micro lens array through surface tension. This method has a simple production process and low cost.
Microplastic embossing method: First, a mold with circular holes is made on a silicon substrate, and then the polymer substrate is placed between the mold and a heating plate. Contact the polymer with the mold to form a micro lens array under high temperature and external pressure. This method is effective and cost-effective, suitable for large-scale production.