Lens Centering Using Edge Contact Mounting

This paper introduces a new type of drop-in technique used to center passively and accurately lenses in optical mounts. This novel lens mounting method is called edge contact mounting and uses the edge at the intersection of the cylindrical and optical surface of the lens as the mounting interface. By providing a spherical mounting seat for the lens on a simple standard threaded ring, it is possible to center accurately lenses of different geometries, diameters and radius of curvatures. The method allows to relax some manufacturing tolerances compared to rim contact drop-in and is not subject to a minimum clamping angle as for the surface contact mounting. This innovative lens mounting method allows to extend the centering accuracy offered by passive lens centering methods to a next level without compromise on cost and complexity.