Canadian researchers have introduced a novel 3D printing technique called blurred tomography. The process is capable of swiftly producing microlenses with commercial-grade optical precision. This innovation streamlines the design and fabrication of various optical devices, potentially revolutionizing prototyping processes.
Blurred tomography intentionally introduces optical blurring to the light beams utilized in 3D printing, ensuring the creation of optically smooth surfaces. Published in Optica, this method showcased its efficacy by crafting a millimeter-sized plano-convex optical lens, exhibiting imaging performance akin to commercial glass lenses, within a mere 30 minutes.
Traditional tomographic 3D printing techniques often result in surface striations, hindering optical component quality. However, blurred tomography overcomes this limitation, enabling the production of intricate, high-quality optical designs without post-processing complexities.
The researchers validated the method by creating a micron-scale plano-convex lens and a microlens array, showcasing its superiority over conventional tomographic printing in surface smoothness and imaging capability. Furthermore, the technique allows for previously challenging tasks like overprinting onto optical fibers.
“We anticipate this method to be valuable for cost-effective and swift prototyping of optical components due to the affordability of the tomographic 3D printer and the materials used,” said Daniel Webber from the National Research Council of Canada.
“Also, the inherent freeform nature of tomographic 3D printing could enable optical designers to simplify designs by replacing multiple standard optics with printed optics that have complex shapes.”
Continued research aims to enhance component accuracy through light patterning optimization and automated printing processes. This advancement holds promise for diverse applications, offering a rapid, cost-effective solution for fabricating optical components and potentially influencing future technological developments.
Source: eurekalert.org