Method for continuously forming an array of optical elements and apparatus therefor
US5945042A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 24, 1997 |
| Grant date | Aug 31, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 24, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29L2011/0016
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
This invention provides a method for continuously forming an array of optical elements which includes feeding synthetic resin sheeting having a temperature in the flow temperature region of the synthetic resin directly to a thermoforming zone of embossing means; continuously pressing the sheeting against a mold provided on the embossing means and having a pattern for defining an array of optical elements while maintaining the sheeting at that flow temperature, to bring the sheeting into intimate contact with the mold and thereby form an array of optical elements on one surface of the sheeting; laminating a surfacing film to the side of the sheeting opposite to the mold as required; feeding a carrier film to the side of the resulting laminate opposite to the mold and bringing the carrier film into close contact therewith; and cooling the sheeting to a temperature lower than the glass transition temperature of the synthetic resin, as well as apparatus therefor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.