Electro-optic variable apodizator device with PDLC

We describe a dynamic optical active apodizator based on polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC). By applying a voltage, the diameter size of device can be controlled. Two different techniques to control the diameter size are reported. In the first technique the voltage dependence is accomplished by confining PDLC between two flat glass plates making a wedge. Since both plates are coated with ITO, the PDLC response to an applied voltage varies lineally with its thickness. The design and characterization of this optical device are shown.