SPHERICAL LENSES

Spherical Lens Shape

 

The design of a a spherical lens is very specific. It is curved. That is why it is called "spherical". A sphere is a three-dimensional circle and is curved. The curve of the lens can either be convex, or concave. A convex design will bubble outwards, and is thicker in the middle than on the edges. A concave lens will have a thin middle and thicker edges, giving it a kind of dent in the middle. These two major categories take light waves and bend them so that they either come together sooner than if they traveled as they originally were, or will come together farther on or even not at all. Within those two categories, there are also more complex designs for spherical lenses, including plano-convex or plano-concave shapes.

 

Uses for the Spherical Lens

 

The spherical lens is used in instances where light should gather at points either early on, or at a greater distance. These situations include applying infrared light to objects. Depending on the situation, the infrared rays might need to be guided so that they converge earlier or later. This can make the infrared light waves focus on a point very far in the distance, or very close. These technologies are applicable to security and defense scenarios. This type of lens can also be used for medical uses, such as magnifying objects for diagnostic purposes.

 

How it is Made

 

Spherical lenses are made in a process similar to cylindrical lenses, with one exception. The shape is curved, and must be calculated exactly. Usually there is a process which includes design, mechanical processing, parts mapping, and outer surface processing. Through out the process it is important to make sure that the lens is functioning correctly. Light is passed through and the rarefaction of the light waves is tested.