Bruno Berge

The invention in a nutshell

French physicist Bruno Berge reprised research on a physical phenomena known as ‘electrowetting', discovered at the turn of the 20^th century. Berge realised the potential of this phenomena in deploying the technology as a lens. His invention employs two non-mixing liquids whose interface curves when exposed to electricity, thus changing the focus of the lens. The ‘liquid lens' is now sold by the company he founded, Varioptic S.A.

Societal benefit

Liquid lens technology has promising applications in a wide range of products. In addition to industrial optical devices, consumers might soon see liquid lenses integrated into their tablet computers and smartphones. Berge's invention is also suitable for more niche optical devices such as lasers, endoscopes, and ophthalmology devices.

Economic benefit

Varioptic was acquired by Parrot S.A. in May, 2011. With approximately half a million units shipped over the last two years, Varioptic employs close to 30 people, with a projected earn-out of €3 million in 2014.