Optical Lens Manufacture
Kingsview Optical has been a trusted manufacturer of custom optical lenses since 1996. With a focus on quality and reliability, we have established ourselves as a leader in precision optical component manufacturing in the UK. Our capabilities allow us to produce optical lenses for various applications, ranging from imaging to illumination. From micro lenses as small as 0.8mm in diameter, to larger lenses up to 200mm in diameter, we can accommodate a wide range of lens geometries.
Whether you need a custom optical lens design tailored to your specific requirements or already have a design in mind, we are here to help. We offer end-to-end manufacturing services, from prototyping to full-scale production.
Optical Lens Standard Tolerances
| Size: 0.8mm to 200mm |
| Diameter Tolerance: -0.05mm |
| Curves: Spherical |
| Decentration (wedge): ± 2′ |
| Irregularity: λ/4 |
| Spherical Error: 0.5% of radius or better |
| Surface Quality (Scratch/Dig): 60/40 |
| Flatness: λ/4@633nm |
| Coating: Broadband AR, V coat, Mgf2 etc |
| Finishing: Edge black painted, steps, bevels etc |
| Materials: Schott, Ohara, CDGM, Fused Silica |
Polishing Capability
CNC Optical Polishing
In 2021, Kingsview took a step further in its CNC lens capability by acquiring a second Optotech CNC lens line. This time, we purchased the Optotech 30 line to complement our already established 80 line. With its specialisation in micro optics ranging from 1-30mm diameter, this investment significantly boosts our proficiency as a precision lens manufacturer. Moreover, it solidifies our dedication to producing first rate custom optics right here in the UK.
Advantages of CNC
Consistency of results – once programmed the results are extremely repeatable
Custom tooling efficiently manufactured – If the design needs specific radii tooling can be manufactured cost effectively
Centre thickness control – Easier to meet tight control on centre thickness
Steep lens radii – Quicker to polish than conventional methods
Conventional Pitch Polishing
Kingsview also provides conventional polishing, also known as pitch polishing, which was commonly used before the introduction of CNC machines in optical polishing. Throughout the years, Kingsview has built a vast collection of optical tooling and test plates. This enables designers to work with existing tooling, resulting in savings on tooling costs and faster delivery times. This is particularly advantageous for small prototype batches. Please refer to our test plate list here.
Advantages of conventional pitch polishing
Efficiency of shallow radii – Depending on tool diameter and radius determines how many you can fit in a block. This can mean many are able to be polished at once making it more efficient than CNC.
No tooling charge – If the lens is able to be designed around our large test plate list no tooling charge necessary.
Improved surface figure – For tight surface figure tolerances pitch polishing can offer excellent results.
Lens edging and centering options
We employ advanced technology such as the auto collimator and air bearing to ensure precise alignment of our lenses. For the ultimate level of precision, we rely on the Trioptic Opticentric – the go-to industry standard for lens centration measurement. Additionally, with the help of CNC, we are able to edge lenses with complex shapes, going beyond just round lenses.
Stepped Lenses – Stepped lenses can really improve the mounting of your lenses into metalwork
Bevel/Chamfers – It is possible to program precision bevels around lenses
Apertures – Controlling aperture size is important for controlling air gaps in optical systems
Flats – Sometimes lenses are better suited to be rectangular saving space and weight of the lens
Black painting lens edges – Some systems benefit from having lens edges painted black to improve stay light control
Optical Assembly and Cementing
Our clean room assembly areas allow for the seamless assembly of lenses into housings. Whether you require doublets or triplets, our skilled technicians can expertly cement them together. To ensure the highest precision, we employ the Trioptic Opticentric which is the industry standard for centration and cementing. When it comes to optical adhesives, we primarily use Norland and NTT, but we are open to using others upon request. If you’re in need of custom optical lens solutions, look no further – our expertise and attention to detail will ensure your satisfaction.
Optical Coating Options
Our optical coating options are tailored to suit your specific application, making it an intriguing choice. With the convenience of onsite optical coating, we have greater control over the process, leading to cost savings and faster deliveries. Choose our expertise in optical lens coating for a customized solution.
Broadband Antireflective (BBAR) – Multilayer coating typical range of 425-650nm. Can be made wider and optimised to suit.
Single layer Magnesium Fluoride (MgF2) – Standard coating works over a large range of angles of incidence
Optimised V coat – When you are only interested in a small wavelength range
Optical Metrology
Our company utilises state-of-the-art metrology equipment to ensure the precision and accuracy of our manufacturing process for optical components.
- 4″ Zygo interferometer with MX software
One of our tools is a 4″ Zygo interferometer with the latest MX software, which allows us to measure lens radius and surface form with high precision. With a wide range of transmission spheres, we are able to measure the entire aperture of most optics we produce. Additionally, we can provide surface reports for the optics we manufacture, if requested.
- Lambda Spectrophotometer
To assess the performance of our optical coatings, we rely on a lambda spectrophotometer. This equipment operates within a wavelength range of 200-3000nm. If needed, we can provide coating witness samples at an additional cost. These spectrophotometry and metrology tools play a crucial role in ensuring the exceptional quality of our custom lenses.
- Trioptic Opticentric
Centration plays a crucial role in the production of precision optics lenses. We understand its significance, which is why we have made a significant investment in the Trioptic Opticentric – the standard in optical centration measurement within the industry. This state-of-the-art equipment not only enhances accuracy in lens cementing but also enables us to achieve the highest level of precision possible. By incorporating the advanced multilens software add on, we can now measure complete optical assemblies, ensuring that each custom lens component is aligned with utmost accuracy. This meticulous attention to detail results in exceptional imaging performance, surpassing your imaging expectations.
- Trioptic Optisurf LTM Extended
The Trioptic Optisurf LTM is a great tool that addresses the challenges of measuring lens thickness in a contactless manner. By utilising low coherence interferometry, this method achieves an astonishing accuracy of less than 1 micron. This, combined with CNC lens manufacture, allows for the routine accomplishment of the highest levels of precision in lens production. One of the notable advantages of this technology is its ability to measure complete lens assemblies, taking into account both lens thickness and air gaps in systems. This feature greatly enhances the manufacturing process, ensuring that lens assemblies are produced according to their intended design and ultimately improving lens performance. In the realm of optics, this tool is truly a game-changer for custom lens production.
Why choose us?
Our team at Kingsview Optical is proud to be the top choice for optical lens manufacturing in the UK. With a comprehensive range of optical components, we cater to industries such as industrial, defence, and augmented reality. Our commitment to quality is evident, as Kingsview is audited and certified to ISO 9001 standards.
What sets us apart is our ability to deliver customised optics with unparalleled speed. We understand the unique requirements of each project and are more than happy to offer expert advice and innovative solutions. Additionally, we possess the expertise to evaluate lens tolerances and provide insight into achievable outcomes.
If you have any questions or inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to provide you with accurate quotes and assist you every step of the way. Moreover, we welcome the opportunity to showcase our state-of-the-art facility and demonstrate how our optical solutions can benefit you. Reach out today and discover the difference that Kingsview Optical can make.
