Abstract: A method of producing an optical element that has spatial variation in refractive index includes providing a curable liquid crystal composition; applying a spatially varying electric field to the liquid crystal composition to induce a desired spatial variation in refractive index; and curing the liquid crystal composition while the electric field is still applied to fix the spatial variation in refractive index when the electric field is removed.

Abstract: A method of producing an optical element that has spatial variation in refractive index is disclosed. The method comprises: providing a curable liquid crystal composition; applying a spatially varying electric field to the liquid crystal composition to induce a desired spatial variation in refractive index; and curing the liquid crystal composition while the electric field is still applied to fix the spatial variation in refractive index when the electric field is removed.

Abstract: Topographic analysis apparatus consists of a light source (1) and associated optics (2) for illuminating a mirrored surface O with a parallel light beam. Light reflected from the mirrored surface is collected by a camera (4) that is mounted on a moveable carriage (5) so that images of the mirrored surface O may be recorded at a plurality of different distances from the surface. The Makyoh topograms produced using this apparatus are then analyzed using phase extraction software to iteratively determine the profile of the surface of the object and the object's reflectivity. In this way Makyoh topograms may be used for quantitative as well as qualitative analysis of a reflective surface such as a semiconductor wafer.