A novel compact optical configuration for direct laser interference patterning

• Demonstration of novel setup for using Direct Laser Interference Patterning (DLIP) • By implementing a tunable lens: changing the spatial period of structure. • Configuration is 10x more compact than commercial DLIP systems. In nature, microscopic surface topographies exhibit remarkable properties, such as super-hydrophobicity and self-cleaning. Pulsed laser technology is widely recognized for replicating these natural structures on functional surfaces. Among these techniques, Direct Laser Interference Patterning (DLIP) leverages the interference of light waves to generate microscale surface patterns. However, conventional DLIP setups require complex and bulky configurations, limiting their integration into compact systems. This study introduces a novel DLIP setup utilizing a focus-tunable lens, enabling adjustable texture periods. This compact design, approximately 1/10th the size of standard configurations, offers significant potential for industrial integration. The system’s capability is demonstrated by patterning line-like structures on stainless steel specimens.