High accuracy lens centering using edge contact mounting

Abstract

We introduce a new type of drop-in technique used to passively and accurately center lenses in optical mounts. This lens mounting method is called edge contact mounting and uses the edge at the intersection of the cylindrical and optical surface of the lens as the mounting interface. By providing a spherical mounting seat for the lens on a simple standard threaded ring, it is possible to center accurately lenses of different geometries, diameters, and radius of curvatures. The method allows relaxation of some manufacturing tolerances compared with rim contact drop-in and is not subject to a minimum clamping angle as for the surface contact mounting. This innovative lens mounting method allows extension of the centering accuracy offered by passive lens centering methods to a next level without compromise on cost and complexity.