Precision UV imprinting system for parallel fabrication of large-area micro-lens arrays on non-planar surfaces

•A new vacuum-assisted UV imprinting system for precision parallel fabrication of microlens arrays on nonplanar substrates—a new low-cost platform for forming 3-dimensional micro-structures on nonplanar surfaces.•The imprinting system precisely controls an elastomeric mold (PDMS) through pressure, which enables direct formation of large-area high quality microlens arrays onto a convex dome.•The surface profile and roughness of the microlenses were measured (∼λ/50) and proved to be comparable with the high cost conventional precision processes, e.g., laser lithographic fabrication.•Imaging experiments were performed to assess the resolution and large view-angle imaging capability of the micro-lens array.