Enhanced depth of field of integral imaging display using bifocal microlens array fabricated by two-step lithography

Due to the limitation of traditional microlens arrays (MLAs) in integral imaging display, the depth of field (DOF) is restricted in space and the center depth plane is difficult to extend in a large range. Here, we propose a microfabrication method based on bifocal MLAs to improve DOF. The bifocal MLAs for extended DOF were fabricated by using two-step photolithography and thermal reflow. This method allows diverse microlenses of high to low numerical aperture to achieve high spatial resolution as well as accurate depth estimation. Microlenses of different focal lengths were simultaneously deposited on a substrate by repeated photolithography with multiple photomasks with alignment mark to define micro-posts of different thicknesses. Hexagonally packaged bifocal MLAs clearly show the DOF extended from 0.004 to 4.908 mm for 57.6 mu m in lens diameter, and their corresponding object distance ranges from 0.125 to 0.165 mm. Based on the proposed scheme, this method provides potential applications in integral imaging 3D display or light field display.

Automated summary

A microfabrication method based on bifocal microlens arrays (MLAs) is proposed to improve the depth of field (DOF) in integral imaging display. The bifocal MLAs, fabricated using two-step photolithography and thermal reflow, allow high spatial resolution and accurate depth estimation by using microlenses of different focal lengths. Hexagonally packaged bifocal MLAs show extended DOF from 0.004 to 4.908 mm for 57.6 μm lens diameter, with corresponding object distance ranges from 0.125 to 0.165 mm.