Role of surface roughness and lubricant film thickness in nanolubrication of sliding components in adaptive optics

Integrated microprojectors are being developed to project a large image on any surface chosen by users. For a laser-based microprojector, a piezo-electric based adaptive optics unit is adopted in the green laser architecture. Nanolubrication of adaptive optics sliding components is needed to reduce wear and for smooth operation. Mobile lubricant film thickness needs to be optimized for a given interface with a certain surface roughness to minimize stiction/friction and maximize durability. In this paper, the role of roughness and film thickness on adhesion, friction, and wear of the interface is studied. The results and associated mechanisms are presented.

Schematic showing detailed construction of the drive mechanism.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (51 K)Download as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights
► Optimization of the interplay of surface roughness and film thickness of lubricant.
► The effect of h/σ on friction, adhesion, and durability.
► h/σ decided by the requirement and functionality of the actual devices.