Patent ID: 7940468
Filing Date: 2011-05-10
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
1. A variable-focus lens assembly, comprising: a sheet having first and second sides and an inner wall defining an aperture therethrough; a first fluid engaging at least a portion of the first side of the sheet; a second fluid engaging at least a portion of the second side of the sheet and engaging the first fluid through the aperture at an interface, the interface defining a lens having a shape disposed across the aperture; and a hydrogel structure engaging the sheet and in contact with the first fluid, the hydrogel structure absorbing and releasing the first fluid in response to a predetermined stimulus such that the hydrogel structure is movable between a first configuration wherein the lens has a first focal length in response to the predetermined stimulus being at a first level and a second and differing configuration wherein the lens has a second and differing focal length in response to the predetermined stimulus being at a second and differing level.