unaxialens

Unaxialens refers to a class of optical lens systems that employ a single, continuous axial element to achieve image formation. Unlike conventional multi-element systems that use multiple lenses to correct aberrations, a unaxial lens relies on a carefully engineered refractive index gradient or aspheric surface profile that shapes light along a single optical axis. The concept emerged in the early 2000s as researchers at the Institute for Photonic Engineering explored extreme aspheric profiles for lightweight imaging devices.

The design of a unaxialens involves solving the Bouguer–Ernst equation for the desired wavefront deformation while keeping material dispersion minimal. Common materials include silicon, ZrO2, and polymer composites doped with rare-earth ions to tailor refractive indices. Because the optic is a monolithic structure, it can be fabricated using a combination of precision grinding, chemical vapor deposition, and ion implantation. The resulting lenses exhibit remarkably high throughput and can be produced at a lower cost than equivalent multi-element assemblies.

Applications of unaxialens technology currently focus on space imaging, where mass and volume constraints are critical, and on portable medical imaging devices, such as compact endoscopes. Several commercial firms have announced unaxial-assisted cameras that achieve sub-5‑micron resolution while maintaining a form factor comparable to single-element lenses. Research continues into broadband performance, resilience to radiation, and integration with adaptive optics for real-time aberration correction.