Abstract
Gradient Index Lens (GRIN Lens) can replace conventional spherical lenses made by curvature surfaces with the optical effects achieved via layers in variable index of refraction to effectively change light path in the lens. Moreover, GRIN lens can reduce spherical aberrations due to curvature surface if the optics design uses flat surface. Due to distribution in refraction index in various layers, the manufacture of GRIN lens must be different from conventional shape forming process so that layered manufacture process could fulfill the GRIN lens requirements. Stereolithography is the research target in this thesis due to the gradient index refraction being possible by doping impurities into base materials to exhibit transparent property. In this thesis, we use layered manufacture method to make GRIN lens, hence, control of distribution in index of refraction cannot achieved with conventional Computer Aided Manufacturing Systems. Therefore, this research devises a method by Stereolithography to compose programs for the tool paths for the equipment constructed by a small two-axis platform and a large three-axis table with 1 m positioning accuracy. A green light laser photo-cures the lens array to fulfill the manufacture requirements. Keywords: Gradient Index Lens, Stereolithography, Computer Aided Manufacture