Microlens arrays produced with the help of the sampling filter

We describe a new method for microlens array generation based on the application of the imaging properties of the sampling filter. A binary amplitude mask corresponding to the transmittance of a lens is used as an input object. its multiplied images, produced by the sampling filter with properly selected resolution, are characterized by the continuous distribution of intensity, which, when exposed in a phase-photosensitive material lead to the appearance of the microlens array. The specific, collective character of the imaging process results in great lens homogeneity. The technique offers wide design freedom and enables us to obtain lenses of long focal lengths. Numerical verification of the concept as well as experimental results are presented. (C) 1998 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers. [S0091-3286(98)01111-8].