Development of a novel multifocal lens using a polarization directed flat lens: possible candidate for a multifocal intraocular lens

Background A polarization-directed flat (PDF) lens acts as a converging lens with a focal length (f) > 0 and a diverging lens with f Methods Constructed a multifocal lens with a PDF lens (f = +/− 100 mm) and a converging lens (f = + 25 mm). In an optical bench test, we measured the defocus curve to test the multifocal function. The multifocal function and optical quality of the lens in various situations were tested. An Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) chart as a near target and a building as a distant target were photographed using a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera. Both lenses (multifocal and monofocal) were tested under the same conditions. Results For the 0 D and − 20 D focal points, the multifocal lens showed sharp images in the optical bench test. In the DSLR test using the multifocal lens, the building appeared slightly blurry compared with the results using the monofocal lens. With the multifocal lens, the ETDRS chart’s images became blurry as the ETDRS chart’s distance decreased, but became very clear again at a certain position. Conclusions We confirmed the multifocal function of the multifocal lens using a PDF lens. This lens can be used as a multifocal IOL in the future.