Applications for Polymer Optics

Precision polymer optics, manufactured by injection molding techniques, has been a key enabling technology for several decades now. Starting in the middle of the last century optics were molded for simple condenser lenses, toy objectives, ophthalmic applications, gauge windows and other low quality glass optic replacements. At the dawn of the 21st Century polymer optics can be found in many more sophisticated applications. Examples can be offered to illustrate the widespread versatility of polymer optics and optical systems. The spectrum would range across medical, military and commercial applications.

Medical instruments such as laparoscopes and arthroscopes can be built using polymer singlets and doublets, sometimes in conjunction with traditional glass elements to correct optical aberrations. Polymer optics can be used for non-imaging applications in medical devices as well.

The use of polymer optics is found in a wide range of consumer applications such as digital cameras, PC peripherals, videoconferencing cameras, and mobile imaging. Laser based bar code scanners of various descriptions are good candidates for polymer optics. More recently, lightweight image based scanners have been manufactured to read 2-D barcode images using a platform that contains multiple optics and a mechanical mount all in one shot. Biometric security systems, smoke detector optics, automated flush valve systems, and laboratory equipment have all benefited from having precision polymer optics. Polymer optics are useful for certain telecom and datacom products and are commonly used to replicate micro structured surfaces such as Fresnel lenses, refractive-diffractive surfaces, and gratings.

Uses for plastic optics:

Our application engineers can discuss your specific program requirements.