Method for making gradient refractive index optical components
US6620350B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 1, 2001 |
| Grant date | Sep 16, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 14, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC03B2203/26
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method for making gradient refractive index optical components includes mixing a molten basic material (11) with a refractive index modifying material (21) in continuously changing proportions. The mixture is changed into a plurality of semi-molten fibers (41), and the fibers are rolled to form a continuous plate (51). The plate has a continuously changing refractive index along a lengthwise direction thereof. The plate is wound around a spindle (57) to obtain a wound preformed rod (58). The preformed rod is integrally fused by local heating, and drawn to form a draw (61) having a predetermined diameter. The draw is cut into pieces. Each piece can then be made into an optical component having a continuously changing refractive index in a radial direction. The method allows precise control of all steps, and such control is achieved with relative ease throughout.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.