Microforging technique for rapid low-cost fabrication of lens array molds

C. R. Forest; M. A. Saez; I. W. Hunter

doi:10.1117/12.717838

14 May 2007 Microforging technique for rapid low-cost fabrication of lens array molds

C. R. Forest, M. A. Saez, I. W. Hunter

Proceedings Volume 10316, Optifab 2007: Technical Digest; 1031614 (2007) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.717838
Event: Optifab 2007, 2007, Rochester, New York, United States

Abstract

Interest in micro-optical components for applications ranging from telecommunications to life sciences has driven the need for accessible, low-cost fabrication techniques. Most micro-lens fabrication processes are unsuitable for applications requiring 100% fill factor, diameters around 1 mm, and scalability to large areas with millions of lenses. We report on a ﬂexible, low-cost mold fabrication technique that utilizes a combination of milling and microforging. The technique involves first performing a rough cut with a ball-end mill. Final shape and sag height are then achieved by pressing a sphere of equal diameter into the milled divot. Using this process, we have fabricated molds for rectangular arrays of 1-10,000 lenses with apertures of 0.25-1.6 mm, sag heights of 3-130 &mgr;m, inter-lens spacings of 0.25-2 mm, and fill factors of 0-100%. Mold profiles have roughness and ﬁgure error of 68 nm and 354 nm, respectively, for 100% fill factor, 1 mm aperture lenses. The required forging force was modeled as a modiﬁed open-die forging process and experimentally verified to increase nearly linearly with surface area. The process is easily adapted to lenticular arrays. Limitations include milling machine range and accuracy.

Citation Download Citation

C. R. Forest, M. A. Saez, and I. W. Hunter "Microforging technique for rapid low-cost fabrication of lens array molds", Proc. SPIE 10316, Optifab 2007: Technical Digest, 1031614 (14 May 2007); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.717838

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