mikrooptik

Mikrooptik, or micro-optics, is the field of optics focused on components and systems with features at the micrometer scale. It covers microlenses, microstructured surfaces, and miniature assemblies that shape and control light in compact form factors. The discipline includes refractive, diffractive, and hybrid optical elements, often combined with electronics or MEMS to create integrated optical subsystems.

Key components include microlens arrays that focus or distribute light onto small detectors, microprisms and microreflectors, diffractive optical elements, and micro-optical waveguides used in signal routing. Micro-optical modules pair these components with sensors, light sources, or actuators to form imaging, sensing, or display subsystems.

Fabrication and integration rely on lithography, diamond turning, laser micromachining, etching, and replication methods such as injection molding and hot embossing to produce large-area microlens arrays and diffractive surfaces. Achieving precise alignment and reliable packaging remains a primary challenge due to the small tolerances involved.

Applications of micro-optics include camera modules in smartphones and compact imaging systems, barcode scanners, optical data transmission components, displays and projection optics, as well as biomedical imaging probes and endoscopic tools. In research, micro-optics supports integrated photonics, micro-LED or laser drivers, and metasurface concepts.

This interdisciplinary field draws on optics, materials science, precision engineering, and computational design. It is advancing through new fabrication techniques, such as soft lithography and nanoimprinting, and by exploring metasurfaces and hybrid optics to enable further miniaturization and performance gains in portable devices.