Optofluidic lenses for 2D and 3D imaging

Optofluidic lenses that modulate light using fluidic materials have been recognized as a powerful alternative to solid lenses. These lenses can achieve many advanced imaging capabilities that are difficult to achieve otherwise. In particular, such adaptive optical elements have shown great potentials in a broad array of applications in two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) imaging, including macro/microscopic imaging, optical coherence tomography, wide-angle imaging, spectral imaging, optical zooming, and switchable monocular/binocular vision. This article reviews current research efforts on optofluidic lenses for 2D/3D imaging. The configurations and actuation mechanisms of different types of optofluidic lenses and their representative imaging applications are introduced. The opportunities and challenges in this field are also discussed. This review is expected to provide a snapshot of the current landscape of optofluidic lenses research to attract more interests in this exciting field and foster the development of next-generation optofluidic lenses.