Fabricating and testing optical components is a very detailed process. It begins by grinding a spherical glass blank using ring tools to create a semifinished lens. Next, the lens’ rough surface is rotated and rubbed against a tool having the desired surface shape.
TOKYO—Researchers at Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology have developed an organic material that can be liquefied or hardened by shining different types of light on it. The result is an adhesive that can be used over and over again.
As it was developing its high-intensity discharge LiteBox and Survivor series flashlights, the company decided to strengthen the lights' lenses and reflector housings by applying a sealant to bond the parts together.