Micro Optics

Avantier is a leading producer of custom micro optics and optical assemblies for a wide range of applications. Whether you need mini diffractive optical elements, micro optical mirrors, micro lenses, micro prisms, or microlens arrays, we’ve got you covered. We also produce optical fibers with microscopic core diameters.

Manufacture of Micro Optics

Micro optics are typically defined as small optical components or systems with diameters ranging from 1 micrometer to 1 millimeter. Due to their small size, these optical elements must be manufactured with precision optical machinery and the utmost attention to detail. Common manufacturing methods for micro optics include photoresist reflow, micro contact printing (soft lithography), and direct laser writing technology.

Experience in micro-scale optical design is essential to address unique challenges. For example, when designing a microlens, it’s important to account for the supporting substrate, which is often thicker than the lens itself. At Avantier, our optical engineers are skilled in micro-scale design, creating high-precision micro optical components and systems that meet tight specifications and perform as intended. We also specialize in designing and manufacturing beam splitters for applications that require precise light division and control.

Applications of Micro Optics

Micro optics play a key role in modern technology and are found in everything from smartphones to advanced imaging devices. These tiny lenses and mirrors are also used in medical devices like surgical lasers and endoscopes, found in leading medical research centers, and in precision instruments for minimally invasive surgery. Here are a few examples of micro optics in action:

Microlens arrays enhance the efficiency of CCD arrays and CMOS sensors by collecting and focusing light that would otherwise be lost on non-sensitive sensor regions. They are also used in high-efficiency photovoltaics to concentrate light energy for electricity production. Some 3D imaging and display technologies use microlens arrays to create multi-dimensional images.

An optical fiber is a transparent fiber, a thin strand of high quality glass. It may be used to transmit light for fiber optic communications and various illumination or imaging applications. Single-mode fibers have cores between 8-10 microns in diameter, while multi-mode fibers have cores from 50-100 microns. Micro waveplates can be used with optical fibers to change the polarization of light, while microspheres can aid in coupling light into or out of fibers and in relaying images.

Optical Materials Used in Micro Optical Systems

While traditional optical materials like glass and polymers can be used in micro optics, some materials perform better at the micro scale than in larger optical applications. Semiconductor materials, for instance, are often used in IR applications due to their compatibility with wafer-based lithography techniques. Fluidic microlenses, which use transparent liquids, are also tunable in ways that solid substrates are not.

Custom Micro Optics

At Avantier, we specialize in creating custom micro optics for clients who require high-performance, high-quality optical elements at competitive prices. Our extensive in-house manufacturing capabilities allow us to turn your ideas into optical components and assemblies that make your project a success. Contact us today to set up a consultation or request more information about our custom work.