Dragonfly-Inspired Compound Eye Lens with Biomimetic Structural Design

Compound eye biomimetics are extensively studied owing to their high level of functionality. However, optimizing material-dependent parameters, such as refractive index, is essential for maximizing lens function. Therefore, metal films are deposited on Pantala flavescens compound eyes using a magnetic mirror magnetron cathode, which deposits films at low temperatures without plasma impingement. By increasing the thickness of the film on the compound eye surface, a compound eye mold is successfully fabricated with high heat tolerance. Lens fabrication is achieved using a high-temperature-curable resin. The resulting lens comprises numerous uniformly shaped functional units. This method offers a highly reproducible lens-pouring molding technique using various materials, marking a significant advancement in developing imaging devices and sensors that accurately replicate the functionalities of dragonfly eyes.