How It Works
Answer basic questions about the lenses you need. Upload production drawings.
Your RFQ is submitted to vendors matching your requirements.
Vendors will contact you with their bid, and you’ll receive contact details for each of them.
Where is my RFQ sent?
Based on your submission our algorithm will determine vendors that match your needs. We have dozens of partners in US, Asia and Europe, specializing in specific materials ( glass, crystal, plastic) production method (grinding, molding) and volumes. A few partners include:
Recent Updates
Optical coating definitions and standards
According ISO 10110 standard optical coatings is divided on two types: protective coatings and functional coatings. Protective coatings are coated on optical elements when safety of optical surfaces and functional coatings is needed. For example, if using of optical device in aggressive environment is planned. Functional coatings are coated on optical elements to provide necessary… Continue Reading
Radius of curvature requirement in optical drawings
One of the key parameters found in optical drawings based on ISO 10110 standard.is the radius of curvature of lens surfaces. This parameter can be found at first line of the surfaces columns in table of parameters. You can click here to review. Optical properties of the lens are defined by the shapes of its surfaces, usually these… Continue Reading
How long does it take to produce optics?
Injection Molding
Generally 8- 24 weeks for mold ( tool) making. Imaging optics require more precision due to surface finish and other tolerances. “Soft tools” which have a shorter life time can be quicker to make ( 2-4 weeks.)
Lens Grinding
6-12 weeks is average, faster ‘rush’ service is possible in certain cases for a premium price
3D printing
A few hours, but only usable for illumination light pipes and niche applications
Machined and hand polishing plastic
1- 2 weeks, useful for prototype volume illumination optics
Extrusions
3-4 weeks for tool making
Optics Manufacturing Terms
Types of materials
- Glass types: Ohara, Schott, CDHM are common. Depending on the application and vendor preference alternatives can be used
- Plastic: PMMA, Plastic
- Lens holders: plastic, aluminum, titanium
- Crystal: most often used in laser applications
Types of production processes:
- Grinding and polishing glass
- Injection molding plastic
- Injection molding glass
- Diamond turning plastic
- 3D printing
Types of applications
- Non-imaging and illumination ( generally lower tolerances)
- imaging optics ( highest tolerances)