Multiple lens molding system and method
OwnerEdward K. Patton, Layne Howell +1inventors
InventorsEdward K. Patton, Layne Howell, Jean-Luc Nogues
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Abstract
A method for forming a plurality of optical elements simultaneously includes placing a transfer material against an inner surface of a master die, which has a shape commensurate with a desired shape of a plurality of optical elements to form a molding die, which thereby has an inner surface substantially a negative of the master die's inner surface. A moldable sheet, such as glass, is pressed against the molding die to form a unitary molded sheet, and the molded sheet is cut apart to form a plurality of optical elements, including lenses or other optical elements as desired.
Claims46
A method for creating a plurality of optical elements simultaneously comprising the steps of:
- forming a molding die from a transfer material by introducing the transfer material to a master die inner surface having a shape commensurate with a desired shape of a plurality of optical elements, the molding die thereby having an inner surface substantially a negative of the master die inner surface;
- separating the master die inner surface from the molding die inner surface;
- pressing a moldable sheet against the molding die inner surface to form a unitary molded sheet;
- and
- cutting the molded sheet apart to form a plurality of optical elements.
A system for creating a plurality of optical elements simultaneously comprising:
- a master die having an inner surface shaped commensurate with a desired shape of a plurality of optical elements;
- a transfer material adapted for forming against the master die inner surface to form a molding die;
- means for separating the molding die from the master die to expose a molding surface;
- means for pressing a moldable sheet against the molding die to form a unitary molded sheet;
- and
- means for cutting the molded sheet apart to form a plurality of optical elements.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.