Molding Technology for Low-Cost Infrared (IR) Chalcogenide Glass Optical Components

Rapid growth in the markets for dual use IR systems is being hindered by the high cost of the needed optical components. Therefore there is a significant demand for lower cost processes for making these components. To that end, LightPath Technologies, Inc. has recently initiated development of a replication process to manufacture lower-cost and consistently producible molded chalcogenide glass lenses for both Federal and Commercial applications. In the Phase I Program proposed here LightPath Technologies’ goal is to demonstrate the feasibility of using this process for mass producing high quality chalcogenide glass lenses at a significantly reduced cost compared to existing methods. Initially the development will focus on a lens size of approximately one inch. The feasibility of pressing larger diameters will be examined subsequent to this. The development approach proposed is aimed at all aspects of lens molding, from optical design, materials evaluation, perform procurement, mold design and fabrication, prototype lens molding, and prototype lens characterization. Molded chalcogenide glass lenses can be used in many Federal applications, including infrared targeting pods, thermal weapon sights, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), tactical imaging systems, and space-based systems. Commercial applications include fire fighting, predictive maintenance, commercial aircraft anti-missile systems, nondestructive testing, and infrared thermometers. BENEFITS: Molded chalcogenide lenses can be utilized in numerous Federal applications, including infrared targeting pods, thermal weapon sights, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), tactical imaging systems, and space-based systems. Commercial applications include fire fighting, predictive maintenance, commercial aircraft anti-missile systems, nondestructive testing, and infrared thermometers.