Patent ID: 6620350
Filing Date: 2003-09-16
Classification: B29D,C03B,G02B

Abstract:
A method for making a gradient refractive index optical component, the method comprising the steps of:(1) preparing a first crucible containing molten basic material therein and a second crucible containing refractive index modifying material therein, the basic material and the modifying material being heated and maintained at predetermined viscosities respectively; (2) preparing a third crucible and guiding the basic material and the modifying material to the third crucible to form a mixture, wherein proportions of the basic material and the modifying material in the mixture are continuously changed; (3) guiding the mixture to flow out of the third crucible as a plurality of semi-molten fibers; (4) pressing the fibers to form at least one continuous plate, the at least one plate jointly and severally having a continuously changing refractive index along a lengthwise direction thereof; (5) winding the plate about a core to obtain a wound preformed rod; (6) heating the preformed rod to integrally fuse it, and drawing the integrally fused rod to form a draw having a predetermined diameter; and (7) cutting the draw into pieces, each piece having a predetermined length, whereby a plurality of optical components each having a continuously changing refractive index in a radial direction thereof can be obtained.