A lens is an optically effective element with two light-refracting surfaces. Of which a surface is usually curved as concave or convex. The most important characteristic of a lens or a so-called lens system is the optical image. The critical size of a lens is the focal length the unit is specified in meters, depending on the intended use etc. Thus the distance from the focal plane or the focal point of the lens is defined. The simplest lenses are optically active at both spherical surfaces (surface sections of a sphere). From a historical perspective it is assumed that the first glass lenses were used in the field of optics. They were used as lenses to correct short sight or long sight. Later, the first binoculars and also microscopes were developed. Materials which are suitable for the production of lenses must be made of transparent materials. In addition to glass are also some plastics suitable, such as Polycarbonate. The name of the lenses is defined by the curvature of their surfaces. Each of these surfaces can be concave, convex or flat (plan). Convex lenses have curved surfaces outwards, concave lenses, however, have inner curved surface. With lenses having a flat surface no curvature is present. A very important characteristic of a lens is the principle of reversal of the light path. The focal length is dependent on the curvature radii of the two lens surfaces. There are many different types of lenses. We want to enumerate only a few at this moment.
- Fresnel lens (e.g., Daylight projectors, headlights, etc.)
- collecting lenses (two convex or with one convex / flat surface)
- diverging lenses (two concave or with one concave / flat surface)
- meniscus lenses (one concave and a convex surface)
- spherical and aspherical lenses
- cylindrical lenses (e.g. glasses, wide-screen cinema projectors)
- elastic lenses
The company Schäfer Glas GmbH manufactures glass lenses in different forms and for many different applications. Thereby we consider primarily the needs and desires of our customers to realize the finished product. It starts with an idea. In general, we receive a technical drawing from our customers. An appropriate tool must be made for the production of a glass lens in the molding process As soon as the tool is ready, we can produce the first samples for inspection and testing. It is our aim that we realize our customers‘ complete satisfaction. Through our long years of experience and continuous development, we are able to produce glass lenses with high accuracy while achieving an appropriately high standard of quality. Whether small numbers or large quantities – our flexibility opens up leeway for the needs of our customers.