Numerical analysis for deriving precision thermoforming mechanism of aspherical lens

In the glass molding process, glass lenses are formed at temperatures significantly higher than their transition temperature, and the internal temperature distribution is important factor in determining the quality of the aspherical lens. The glass molding enables the large quantity production of optical glass components with high precision, short production cycles, low cost, and an environmentally friendly approach. In this study, a numerical heat transfer model was developed to analyze the correlation between the duration of heating, pressing, and cooling stages and the thermal capacity of the heating system. The temperature distribution and deviation of aspherical lenses were investigated to improve the molding process. The numerical model was validated through experimental verification, ensuring the reliability of the analysis. The results demonstrated that by optimizing the heating and cooling systems, the temperature distribution and deviation of the aspherical lens could be effectively controlled within the 3 °C. Furthermore, lens temperature changes based on heating and cooling capacity at each stage provided insights into the optimal thermal design conditions for aspherical lens molding. This study offers practical guidance for achieving high precision and thermal uniformity in the production of aspherical lenses.