Liquid Lens Technology

Autofocus system with no moving parts

Liquid lens autofocus technology enables image-based barcode readers to automatically adapt to changes in working distances for greater depth-of-field range. Liquid lenses use electrical charges to change the shape of the interface between oil and water. This bends the light and brings the image, or barcode, into focus quickly.

Unlike traditional zoom lenses, liquid lenses do not have any moving parts that can wear out or fail. This simplifies installation, setup, and maintenance by eliminating the need to open the reader and manually touch the lens.

Relative to other autofocus mechanisms, liquid lenses have extremely fast response times and good optical quality. It is ideal for applications with reading distances that change from part to part or during part changeover. Liquid lens technology is available for several fixed-mount and handheld barcode reader models.