Feature

The making of binary optics

Michael W. Farn, Margaret B. Stern, and Wilfrid Veldkamp

In a development that parallels the evolution of single transistors to integrated circuits to microprocessors, binary optics is the enabling technology in the transition from macroscopic optics to arrayed micro-optics to integration of optical subassemblies with built-in processing functions. Binary optics is a broad based diffractive optics technology that uses lithography and micromachining to create novel optical devices and to provide design freedom and new materials choices for conventional optical designs. It piggybacks on advanced VLSI (very large scale integration) fabrication technology and is complemented by computerized optical design procedures.