Freeform lenses have an aspherical or freeform surface and can have the same functionality, e.g., produce certain light-beam paths, as several conventional lenses mounted in sequence.
In taking up less space, freeform optics enable lighter and more compact optical systems, e.g., for use in head-up displays for automotive and the imaging/display industry.
Micro-optics are tiny (less than 2 mm in diameter) lenses fabricated using standard technologies from the semiconductor industry, like resist coating, lithography, reactive ion etching and deposition. Their miniature size, robustness and high performance make wafer-based micro-optics ideal for telecom, laser, imaging, inspection, and data storage applications.