BINDING MATERIAL PROCESSING OF GRADIENT INDEX (GRIN) RODS INTO GRIN LENSES ATTACHABLE TO OPTICAL DEVICES, COMPONENTS, AND METHODS

摘要

Embodiments for binding material processing of gradient index (GRIN) rods into GRIN lenses attachable to optical devices, components, and methods are disclosed. A cylindrical GRIN rod comprises an optical axis and a longitudinal axis at a center axis, where an index of refraction may be greatest at the optical axis. The GRIN rod includes GRIN lenses along the longitudinal axis. The GRIN lenses include a first optical surface and a second optical surface opposite the first optical surface. Separation processes and devices may separate the GRIN lenses from the GRIN rods and these processes may be automated. Other processes may polish the first and the second optical surfaces. A gripper may insert the GRIN lens into an optical device.