Method for forming an optical element

US7611648B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Schott AG · DE

Inventors

• Bernd Wölfing · Mainz, DE
• Edgar Pawlowski · Stadecken-Elsheim, DE
• Ulrike Stöhr · Mainz, DE
• Ralf Biertümpfel · Mainz, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 27, 2005
• Grant date: Nov 3, 2009
• Expiry date: Apr 7, 2027

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T428/24479
• WIPO field: Other special machines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

The invention relates to a process for forming an optical element. A forming tool is used having a plurality of molding or hot-embossing portions formed on a surface thereof for molding or hot-embossing optical structures onto a substrate. On the surface of the substrate there is formed at least one preformed portion. The substrate is heated to a temperature above a transition temperature and the forming tool and the substrate are pressed against each other for forming an optical element having a plurality of structures having an optical effect, wherein the shape of the structures having an optical effect is given by the respective associated molding or hot-embossing portion.According to the invention, when the forming tool and the substrate are pressed against each other, the respective preformed portion of the substrate first of all gets into contact to the associated molding or hot-embossing portion or to the forming tool at a central area so that a nip, which is formed between a surface of the respective preformed portion and a surface of the associated molding or hot-embossing portion or of said forming tool extends and broadens from said central area towards an edge of the re…