Patent ID: 7394598
Filing Date: 2008-07-01
Classification: G02B,G11B

Abstract:
1. A switchable optical element having a first discrete state and a different, second discrete state, the switchable optical element comprising: a fluid system including a first fluid and a different, second fluid; a wavefront modifier having a face; and a fluid system switch for acting on the fluid system to switch between the first and second discrete states of the element, wherein, when the switchable optical element is in the first discrete state, the face of the wavefront modifier is substantially covered by the first fluid, and when the element is in the second discrete state, the face of the wavefront modifier is substantially covered by the second fluid, characterized in that said fluid system switch comprises: a configuration of electrodes for acting on the fluid system by the application of electrowetting forces; and a voltage control system for controlling voltages applied to the configuration of electrodes to switch between the first and second discrete states of the switchable optical element.