Mechanism to mold glass lenses using an implanted precision glass molding tool

摘要

A method for fabricating a molding tool for mold glass optical elements therewith is taught. The method comprises the steps of figuring the molding tool to have a predetermined mold surface; applying an attenuating coating to the predetermined mold surface; implanting metal ions through the attenuating coating and into the predetermined mold surface; and removing the attenuating coating leaving the predetermined mold surface with metal ions implanted therein. The method of fabrication allows for the molding tool made therewith to be used for molding optical elements from eco-glasses such as titania at high temperatures without generating adverse surface chemistry effects in the molded element.