Dynamically variable intensity patterns projected using an optofluidic phase-shifter array

We present a concept for the dynamically variable definition of arbitrary intensity distributions using an array of optofluidic phase-shifters. These components consist of cylindrical fluidic surfaces whose interface may be controllably shaped using electrowetting-on-dielectrics actuation. Key to the generation of defined intensity distributions is the ability to calculate the required shape for this phase-shifting interface and to this end we present a novel procedure, to our knowledge, that combines a real-time optimization algorithm with an influence matrix approach to generate the required surface. We illustrate the effectiveness of this approach by reconstructing arbitrary surface profiles with one optofluidic phase-shifting component that is then used to project a desired two-dimensional intensity distribution. Using this approach, we further demonstrate the capability of a two-dimensional phase-shifter array to generate larger dynamically programmable intensity patterns by combining individual intensity distributions.