Batching of molten glass in the production of graded index of refraction glass bodies
US6029475A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 30, 1998 |
| Grant date | Feb 29, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 30, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC03B19/02
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Gradient refractive index elements are fabricated from the melt, using two or more molten glass compositions, to prevent bubble formation in the elements. The individual glass compositions are melted in separate containers, and then added as appropriate to a single crucible. The more dense glasses settle to the bottom of the crucible, while the less dense glasses float on top of the melt layer. As a consequence of using molten glass, no bubbles appear. Batching of the process can be done by the level of the free melt surface, which means that one can control the batched volume of the melted glass by controlling the level of the free melt surface in the crucible.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.