Glass manufacturing device, glass, optical system, optical device, and glass manufacturing method

Abstract

A glass manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing glass through a step of reducing the temperature of a melt of a glass raw material, the glass manufacturing apparatus comprising: a heating unit for heating the glass raw material supported in a non-contact manner; a heating control unit for controlling the heating amount of the glass raw material by the heating unit; and a molding unit for molding the glass raw material in a molten state, the temperature of which changes on the basis of the control of the heating amount by the heating control unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a glass manufacturing device, glass, an optical system, an optical device, and a glass manufacturing method. The present invention claims priority to Japanese patent application No. 2022-161638 filed on October 6, 2022, and the contents of the application are incorporated into the present application by reference for designated countries that recognize incorporation by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a glass manufacturing device, glass, an optical system, an optical device and a glass manufacturing method. Background Art

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method for producing optical glass using a laser levitation furnace. Such a laser levitation furnace requires that a glass sample be stably levitated by a levitation gas.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-196236 Summary of the invention

[0007] The present invention is, for example, a glass manufacturing device that manufactures glass by a process of lowering the temperature of glass raw materials supported in a non-contact manner, the glass manufacturing device comprising: a heating unit that heats the glass raw materials; a heating control unit that controls the amount of heat applied to the glass raw materials by the heating unit; and a forming unit that forms the glass raw materials in a molten state whose temperature has changed based on the control of the heating amount by the heating control unit.

[0008] Another aspect of the present invention is a glass manufacturing device that manufactures glass through a process of lowering the temperature of glass raw materials supported in a non-contact manner, the glass manufacturing device comprising: a heating unit that heats the glass raw materials; a heating control unit that controls the amount of heat applied to the glass raw materials by the heating unit; and a forming unit that forms the glass raw materials in a molten state whose temperature has changed based on the control of the heating amount by the heating control unit.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention is glass manufactured using the above-mentioned glass manufacturing apparatus.

[0010] Another aspect of the present invention is an optical system using the above-mentioned glass.

[0011] Another aspect of the present invention is an optical device using the above-mentioned optical system.

[0012] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for producing glass, which produces glass using the above-mentioned glass producing apparatus.

[0013] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for manufacturing glass, which manufactures glass through a step of lowering the temperature of glass raw material supported in a non-contact manner, the method comprising: a melting step of heating the glass raw material by a heating unit to melt the glass raw material; and a forming step of forming the glass raw material in a molten state while the temperature of the glass raw material in a molten state is lowered.

[0014] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for manufacturing glass, which manufactures glass through a process of lowering the temperature of glass raw materials supported in a non-contact manner, the method comprising: a melting process of heating the glass raw materials to melt the glass raw materials; a cooling process of lowering the temperature of the glass raw materials in a molten state to obtain the glass; a reheating process of heating the glass to melt the glass; and a forming process of forming the molten glass while the temperature of the molten glass is lowered.

[0015] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for manufacturing glass, which manufactures glass through a step of lowering the temperature of glass raw materials supported in a non-contact manner, the method comprising: a melting step of heating the glass raw materials by a heating unit to melt the glass raw materials; a heating control step of controlling the amount of heat applied to the glass raw materials by the heating unit; and a forming step of forming the glass raw materials in a molten state whose temperature has been changed by controlling the heating amount in the heating control step.

[0016] Another embodiment of the present invention is a glass manufacturing device that manufactures glass by cooling glass raw materials, and the glass manufacturing device comprises: a support member that supports the glass raw materials in a molten state in a non-contact manner; and a carrier, the support member is fixed to the carrier, and the support member can be removed from the carrier. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of a glass manufacturing apparatus provided with a suspension furnace including a holding member according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 It is shown in Figure 1 Schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) of a state in which a sample suspended above a support portion is heated.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace of the first embodiment. Figure 3(A) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 (B) is a diagram (part 1) showing the molded component 31 as viewed from the side of the support member 12. Figure 3 (C) is a diagram (part 2) showing the molded member 31 as viewed from the support member 12 side.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of a suspension furnace according to the second embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of a suspension furnace according to a modified example of the second embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of a suspension furnace according to the third embodiment.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of a suspension furnace according to the fourth embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 8 (A) is one of the schematic diagrams (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 8 (B) is a second schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace according to the fifth embodiment.

[0025] Fig. 9 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace of the sixth embodiment. Fig. 9 (A) is one of the schematic diagrams (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace according to the sixth embodiment. Fig. 9 (B) is a modified example of the molded component 38, Fig. 9 (C) is a third schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace according to the sixth embodiment. Fig. 9 (D) is a modified example of the molding method of the sample U using the molded component 383.

[0026] Fig.10 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace of the seventh embodiment. Fig.10 (A) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of a molded component according to the seventh embodiment, Fig.10 (B) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing a modified example of the molded component of the seventh embodiment.

[0027] Fig.11This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace of the eighth embodiment. Fig.11 (A) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of a forming portion of the eighth embodiment, Fig.11 (B) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing a modified example of the forming portion of the eighth embodiment.

[0028] Fig.12 This is a diagram for explaining a suspension furnace according to a ninth embodiment. Fig.12 (A) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of a forming portion of the ninth embodiment, Fig.12 (B) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) for explaining molding performed using the molding section of the ninth embodiment.

[0029] Fig.13 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace of the tenth embodiment. Fig.13 (A) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of a suspension furnace according to the tenth embodiment. Fig.13 (B) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing a modified example of the suspension furnace according to the tenth embodiment.

[0030] Fig.14 1 is a diagram for explaining the heating control of the sample U in the first to tenth embodiments. Fig.14 (A) is a diagram showing an example of a standard heating amount (part 1), Fig.14 (B) is a diagram showing an example of a standard heating amount (part 2), Fig.14 (C) is a diagram showing an example of a state where the amount of heating is reduced.

[0031] Fig.15 The measurement results of the sample U obtained as a result of Example 1 and Example 2 are shown.

[0032] Fig.16 The measurement results of the sample U obtained from the results of Examples 3 to 5 are shown.

[0033] Fig.17 Graph showing the measurement results of Sample U1 and Sample U2 obtained from the results of Example 6. Fig.17 (A) is a diagram showing the measurement results of sample U1, Fig.17 (B) is a diagram showing the measurement results of sample U2.

[0034] Fig.18 This is a perspective view of an example in which the optical device of each embodiment is used as an imaging device.

[0035] Fig.19This is a front view of another example in which the optical device of each embodiment is used as an imaging device.

[0036] Fig. 20 This is a rear view of another example in which the optical device of each embodiment is used as an imaging device.

[0037] Fig.21 This is a block diagram of an example in which the optical device of each embodiment is used as a multiphoton microscope.

[0038] Fig. 22 It is a schematic diagram showing an example of a cemented lens according to each embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "this embodiment") will be described. The following this embodiment is an example for describing the present invention, and does not limit the present invention to the following contents.

[0040] It should be noted that, in the drawings, the same reference numerals are attached to the same elements and repeated descriptions are omitted. In addition, unless otherwise stated, the positional relationships of up, down, left, right, etc. are based on the positional relationships shown in the drawings. Moreover, the dimensional ratios of the drawings are not limited to the ratios shown in the drawings.

[0041] In addition, a term with “approximately” means that the meaning of the term “approximately” is removed within the scope of technical knowledge of a person skilled in the art, and also includes the meaning of “approximately” itself. And vice versa. For example, the term “circle” does not have “approximately”, but of course it includes the meaning of “approximately circle” as long as it does not violate the purpose of the invention.

[0042] The "section" in "cross-sectional view" or "section observation" refers to a section passing through the center or center of gravity of the concave surface R when the concave surface R of the supporting member 12 described later is placed facing upward and stationary on a horizontal plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity, and the section is perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

[0043] <Overview of Glass Manufacturing Apparatus 10>

[0044] Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram of a glass manufacturing apparatus 10 having a suspension furnace including a suspension portion (support portion) 21 according to the present embodiment. Figure 2 It is shown in Figure 1 Schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) of a state in which the sample U suspended above the suspension unit 21 is heated. It should be noted that suspending the sample U by the suspension unit 21 is also referred to as supporting the sample U in a non-contact manner.

[0045] like Figure 1As shown, the glass manufacturing device 10 is a device for manufacturing optical glass having a gas jet type suspension furnace. The glass manufacturing device 10 heats and melts the glass raw materials in a state where the glass raw materials are suspended by gas to manufacture glass. The glass manufacturing device 10 includes: a suspension furnace including a support member 12 for blowing gas to a sample U containing glass raw materials to suspend it; a laser light source 13 for irradiating the suspended sample U with laser light L; a radiation thermometer 16 for measuring the temperature of the suspended sample U; a computer 17 having a control unit 22 (not shown) for controlling the output of the laser light source 13 and the support member 12, a forming unit 30 described later, etc. based on the temperature information of the radiation thermometer 16; and a gas flow regulator 20 for regulating the flow rate of the gas supplied to the support member 12. The suspension unit 21 for suspending the sample U includes the support member 12 and the gas flow regulator 20.

[0046] In the glass manufacturing apparatus 10, the sample U suspended above the support member 12 disposed on the stage 11 is non-contact heated by irradiation with the laser light L. In other words, the laser light source 13 irradiating the laser light L functions as a heating unit. As a result, the sample U melts and becomes a molten liquid (melt) in a substantially spherical or substantially ellipsoidal shape due to its own surface tension, and is suspended in this state.

[0047] The non-contact heating of the sample U is performed by irradiating the sample U with laser light L emitted from the laser light source 13 via the reflector 14 and the reflector 15. The temperature of the sample U heated by the irradiation of the laser light L is monitored by the radiation thermometer 16. The output of the laser light source 13 is controlled by the computer 17 based on the temperature information of the sample U monitored by the radiation thermometer 16. In addition, the state of the sample U is photographed by the CCD camera 18, which is output to the monitor 19. It should be noted that the laser light source 13 is not particularly limited, and for example, a carbon dioxide laser, a semiconductor laser, a fiber laser, a YAG laser, etc. can be cited.

[0048] The flow rate of the gas fed into the support member 12 is controlled by a gas flow regulator 20. It should be noted that the type of gas is not particularly limited, and a known gas can be appropriately used. As specific examples, oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, argon, air, etc. can be cited. In addition, the shape of the nozzle (not shown) connected to the support member 12 is not particularly limited, and a known method can be appropriately used.

[0049] After the stably suspended sample U is non-contact heated, the laser light L is cut off. As a result, the melt (sample U) is cooled and solidified, and an optical glass is obtained.

[0050] In this embodiment, external pressure is applied to the sample U in the state of the melt to form it into a desired thickness and size. Afterwards, the sample U is cooled and solidified. The optical glass obtained in this way can be processed into a desired shape as needed, and polished, etc., to serve as a desired optical element.

[0051] like Figure 2 As shown, the support member 12 includes: a first surface W1 having a concave surface R opposite to the sample U; and a second surface W2 as a gas introduction surface located on the opposite side of the first surface W1. The second surface W2 has an inlet for introducing gas, and the concave surface R of the first surface W1 has an outlet for ejecting gas. The gas introduced from the inlet is ejected from the outlet to suspend the sample U.

[0052] It should be noted that the support member 12 may be any member as long as it allows the sample U to suspend, and its shape and structure are not limited to Figure 2 For example, the support member 12 may be formed of a porous member, and the gas introduced from the second surface W2 may be ejected from the first surface W1 to suspend the sample U. The shape of the support member 12 is not limited to the example in this figure, and may be modified as appropriate.

[0053] In addition, for example, the support member 12 may suspend the sample U using static electricity. In such a case, the glass manufacturing apparatus 10 has an unillustrated static electricity device for charging the sample U, instead of the gas flow regulator 20. For example, the support member 12 can suspend the sample U between one or more pairs of electrodes constituting the static electricity device using static electricity. It should be noted that the method by which the support member 12 suspends the sample U is not limited to the above example, and may also be electromagnetic, sonic, magnetic, etc.

[0054] <First embodiment>

[0055] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity (nearby) of the suspension furnace according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 (A) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 (B) is a diagram (part 1) showing the molded component 31 as viewed from the side of the support member 12. Figure 3 (C) is a diagram (part 2) showing the molded member 31 as viewed from the support member 12 side.

[0056] In the conventional glass manufacturing apparatus 10, when manufacturing optical glass using a suspension furnace, the sample U is melted by laser irradiation and then solidified by cooling to obtain the optical glass. At this time, the thickness of the sample U is limited due to the relationship between the surface tension and gravity acting on the sample U.

[0057] In the glass manufacturing apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the molten sample U is formed in the temperature drop process, so that an optical glass having a desired thickness can be obtained.

[0058] The glass manufacturing device 10 of the first embodiment has a suspension part 21, a carrier 11, a laser light source 13, reflectors 14 and 15, a radiation thermometer 16, a computer 17, a CCD camera 18 and a monitor 19, and in addition, it also has a forming part 30, wherein the suspension part 21 includes a supporting member 12 and a gas flow regulator 20, the computer 17 has a control part 22, and the forming part 30 forms the molten glass raw material suspended by the suspension part 21.

[0059] like Figure 3 (A), the forming section 30 has a forming member 31 (31a and 31b), and the forming member 31 is pushed to the molten glass to form. The forming member 31 deforms the shape of the melt of the sample U. As an example, the forming member 31 is a plurality of members, which are a plurality of claw-shaped members driven by a motor in a direction parallel to the horizontal direction (for example, +X direction, -X direction). Each forming member 31 is arranged in a manner surrounding the sample U, and is driven to open and close freely, thereby clamping the sample U from multiple different directions. In other words, the forming section 30 pushes the plurality of forming members 31 to the melt of the sample U from multiple directions toward the center direction to form.

[0060] The material of the forming member 31 is not particularly limited, and preferably at least a part or all of the forming member 31 includes stainless steel (SUS), aluminum alloy, quartz or carbon (C). These materials have excellent thermal shock resistance and wear resistance even at high temperatures, and their wettability with glass is appropriately suppressed, so the generation of crystallization points in the molten glass can be suppressed. In addition, the melting point of the material of the forming member 31 in the portion in contact with the molten glass is preferably 500 degrees or more because it is expected that it will not deform even at high temperatures.

[0061] As an example, Figure 3 As shown in (B), the molding member 31 is two sets of claw-shaped members facing each other. Figure 3 (B) is a diagram of the forming member 31 and the sample U as viewed from the bottom side (the side of the support member 12). The forming member 31 (31c to 31f) is configured to surround the sample U. The surface of the forming member 31 of the present embodiment that contacts the sample U is in an arc shape. A pair of claw-shaped forming members (31c and 31d) of each group constituting the forming member 31 moves in the +X direction or the -X direction, respectively, and another pair of claw-shaped forming members (31e and 31f) moves in the +Y direction or the -Y direction, respectively. In other words, the forming member 31 can be formed by opening and closing to clamp the sample U from four directions (+X direction, -X direction, +Y direction, -Y direction).

[0062] pass Figure 3 The forming member 31 shown in (B) can change the shape of the sample U while increasing the length of the sample U in the Z-axis direction. It should be noted that the arrangement and number of the forming members 31 are not limited to this, and the number of the forming members 31 can be 4 or more. In this case, the forming unit 30 pushes the forming member 31 to the glass melt from 4 or more directions to form it. It should be noted that the shape of the forming member 31 in contact with the sample U is appropriately designed.

[0063] A specific example is shown below. Figure 3 (C) is a view of the molded component 31 and the sample U viewed from the bottom (the support member 12 side). The surface of the molded component 31 in contact with the sample U may also be a flat surface. Figure 3 The molding component (C) can change the shape of the sample U while increasing the length of the sample U in the Z-axis direction. Not limited to this, by changing the number of molding components 31, the shape of the surface in contact with the sample U, etc., the shape of the sample U can be formed according to the application. According to the molding component 31, the labor and time of processing the sample U after vitrification can be reduced. In addition, in order to prevent the damage of the sample U due to the temperature difference between the molding component 31 and the sample U, the molding component 31 can be preheated before molding.

[0064] After the laser irradiation by the laser light source 13 stops, the forming unit 30 lowers the multiple forming members 31 in the open state. At this time, it is preferred that the sample U in the forming unit 30 is located near the center of the multiple forming members 31 that are open. Then, in order to clamp the sample U, the forming unit 30 drives the multiple forming members 31 in the direction in which the multiple forming members 31 are closed (for example, +X direction, -X direction) so that the forming members 31 contact the sample U. The forming unit 30 further pressurizes the forming members 31 in the closing direction to increase the thickness of the sample U. Then, the sample U is removed from the forming member 31, thereby obtaining an optical glass of a desired thickness.

[0065] In addition, the sample U is formed by the forming member 31 until the sample U reaches a temperature at which it no longer deforms. When the temperature of the sample U becomes lower than the temperature at which it no longer deforms, the sample U may be removed from the forming member 31 to cool the sample U. The temperature at which the sample U no longer deforms is preferably a temperature below the glass transition point (glass transition temperature) of the sample U.

[0066] It should be noted that the molding unit 30 preferably molds the sample U at a temperature below the yield point, and more preferably molds it at a temperature below the yield point and above the glass transition point. In the case of molding at a temperature exceeding the yield point using the molding component 31, there is a possibility of crystallization point devitrification due to excessive wettability due to contact between the molding component 31 and the sample U. The sample U above the glass transition point and below the yield point has a viscosity suitable for molding by pressurization, and excessive wettability to the molding component 31 is suppressed, so that an optical glass of a desired thickness and size can be obtained more effectively.

[0067] It should be noted that the control unit 22 is preferably used to set the timing for the forming unit 30 to form the sample U. The control unit 22 obtains information on the physical property values ​​of the sample U as the specified characteristics before the forming of the sample U. Specifically, it is the glass transition point and yield point of the sample U. Therefore, the control unit 22 controls the forming unit 30 so that it can form the sample U at the above-mentioned preferred temperature. It should be noted that the physical property values ​​are not limited to this, and also include the physical property values ​​required when the forming unit 30 forms the glass melt.

[0068] The control unit 22 monitors the temperature of the glass melt after the laser irradiation stops using the radiation thermometer 16, and controls the forming unit 30 to form the sample U so that the forming temperature of the sample U is higher than the glass transition point and lower than the yield point.

[0069] Furthermore, the control unit 22 may also include a calculation unit 23 for calculating the timing of controlling the forming unit 30. The calculation unit 23 calculates the timing of the forming unit 30 to form the sample U based on the yield point and glass transition point of the sample U and the information on the weight of the raw material of the sample U. The reason for using the information on the weight of the raw material of the sample U is that the cooling rate after the laser irradiation stops varies due to the weight of the sample U, so by also using the information on the weight of the raw material of the sample U, a better timing can be calculated. The information used by the calculation unit 23 may be not only the weight of the raw material of the sample U but also the size of the sample U (volume or surface area, etc.).

[0070] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the melting and forming of the sample U are performed continuously, but the sample U that has been vitrified once may be used as the sample to be formed. In this case, the sample U suspended by the support member 12 is heated until the temperature reaches or exceeds the liquidus temperature of the glass of the sample U. Thereafter, the laser irradiation is stopped again, and the sample U is formed by the forming unit 30 at a temperature below the yield point and above the glass transition point.

[0071] <Second embodiment>

[0072] Figure 4 1 is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace of the second embodiment. The following is a description of the differences from the first embodiment. The forming section 30 of the second embodiment is provided with a suction section 32 instead of the forming member 31. The suction section 32 is a hollow cylindrical member connected to a suction device (not shown) and sucks the sample U by decompressing the interior. That is, the glass manufacturing apparatus 10 of the second embodiment sucks molten glass to perform forming.

[0073] The inner side of the end of the suction part 32 is tapered in cross section, gradually narrowing toward the inside. The tapered shape allows the sucked glass to be gathered at the center and increase the thickness. The suction part 32 is preferably made of at least a part or all of stainless steel (SUS), aluminum alloy, quartz or carbon, similarly to the molding member 31 of the first embodiment.

[0074] After the laser irradiation by the laser light source 13 stops, the forming unit 30 uses the suction unit 32 arranged at a position where the sample U can be sucked to form the sample U. The suction unit 32 is preferably arranged at a position where its center coincides with the center of the sample U and is located directly above the sample U. The forming unit 30 decompresses the interior of the suction unit 32 to suck the sample U. During the suction, the outer edge of the sample U contacts the lower end or the inner wall of the suction unit 32, and the center of the sample U is sucked upward, so that the thickness of the sample U in the Z-axis direction is increased. After that, the sample U is removed from the forming unit 30 and cooled, so that an optical glass of a desired thickness can be obtained.

[0075] <Modification of the Second Embodiment>

[0076] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of a suspension furnace of a modified example of the second embodiment. The following describes the differences from the second embodiment. The forming section 30 of this modified example has a forming member 33 in addition to the suction section 32. The forming member 33 forms the sample U which is molten glass.

[0077] The molding member 33 functions as a mold for adjusting the shape of the sample U. The molding member 33 is arranged in the suction direction in which the suction unit 32 sucks the sample U, and contacts the sample U sucked by the suction unit 32, thereby adjusting the shape of the sample U. As an example, in the molding unit 30, the suction unit 32 is provided so that the suction unit 32 surrounds the molding member 33 in a plane perpendicular to the gravity direction.

[0078] After the laser irradiation by the laser light source 13 stops, the molding unit 30 molds the sample U using the suction unit 32 disposed at a position where the sample U can be sucked. The suction unit 32 is preferably disposed at a position where its center coincides with the center of the sample U and is located directly above the sample U. As a result, the molded component 33 is disposed directly above the sample U.

[0079] The forming section 30 decompresses the interior of the suction section 32 to suck the sample U. The upper portion of the sucked sample U contacts the forming member 33. As a result, the sample U is pushed to the forming member 33, so that the upper portion of the sample U is adjusted to the shape of the forming member 33. It should be noted that at this time, if the support member 12 continues to supply gas to the sample U, the upper portion of the sample U is pressurized by the forming member 33, and the lower portion is pressurized by the gas. In other words, the sample U is sandwiched between the gas from the support member 12 and the forming member 33 and is formed. Thereafter, the sample U is cooled, so that an optical glass having a desired thickness and a desired shape can be obtained.

[0080] As required, the shaping unit 30 may move the shaping member 33 downward when the suction unit 32 performs suction, so that the sample U is pushed to the shaping member 33 and the shape is adjusted. In this case, if the support member 12 continues to supply gas to the sample U, the sample U is sandwiched between the gas from the support member 12 and the shaping member 33 and shaped. In this way, not only can the upper part of the sample U be shaped into a desired shape, but the diameter of the sample U can also be increased to a desired size.

[0081] Alternatively, the shaping unit 30 may push the shaping member 33 from the upper portion of the sample U to the sample U so that the lower portion of the sample U contacts the concave surface R of the support member 12, thereby sandwiching the molten glass between the support member 12 and the shaping member 33 for shaping. It should be noted that the shapes of the surfaces of the suction unit 32 and the shaping member 33 that contact the sample U may be appropriately designed.

[0082] <Third embodiment>

[0083] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace of the third embodiment. The differences from the first embodiment will be described below. The forming section 30 of this embodiment forms the sample U by blowing gas onto the sample U.

[0084] Similar to other embodiments, in this embodiment, gas is sprayed upward toward the sample U from the nozzle 24 (not shown) provided in the suspension portion 21, so that the sample U is maintained in a suspended state. The forming portion 30 has a plurality of nozzles 34 (34a and 34b) that blow gas to the sample U from the lateral direction (+X direction, -X direction). The plurality of nozzles 34 each blow gas to the sample U from a different direction toward the center of the sample U. Accordingly, the sample U is pressurized from the lateral direction toward the center and the thickness increases. The number of nozzles 34 is not limited to 2, and is preferably 4 or more. In addition, the nozzles 34 are preferably arranged in a manner surrounding the sample U, thereby enabling the sample U to be formed evenly. In addition, the spacing between the nozzles 34 is preferably approximately equal.

[0085] Figure 6 In the example shown, the forming section 30 is a plurality of holes formed in the support member 12, each of which functions as a nozzle 34. In addition, the forming section 30 may be provided on the upper portion of the support member 12 as a mechanism different from the support member 12 for suspending the sample U. When the laser irradiation by the laser light source 13 stops, the sample U is kept suspended by spraying gas upward through the support member 12. Afterwards, the forming section 30 sprays gas toward the sample U from the lateral direction, and pressurizes the sample U from the periphery toward the center. Afterwards, the sample U is cooled, so that an optical glass of a desired thickness can be obtained.

[0086] <Fourth embodiment>

[0087] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace of the fourth embodiment. The following describes the differences from the first embodiment. The suspension section 21 of this embodiment has: a support member for suspending the glass melt; and a dividing section 37 for dividing the support member. In addition, the forming section 30 of this embodiment has a plurality of forming members 36 (36a and 36b).

[0088] The support member 12 can be divided into a plurality of parts on a plane perpendicular to gravity. The dividing portion 37 divides the support member 12 into a plurality of parts. For example, the dividing portion 37 pulls each part constituting the support member 12 in the outer direction (outward direction), thereby dividing the support member 12.

[0089] The forming member 36 (36a and 36b) is a mold that can be formed by pressurizing the heated sample U. Preferably, at least a part or all of the member includes stainless steel (SUS), aluminum alloy, quartz or carbon. The forming member 36 is a plurality of members arranged around the sample U, and pressurizes the sample U from the lateral direction and from different directions toward the center of the sample U.

[0090] The plurality of molded components 36 are located at the lower part of the support member 12, and before the support member 12 is divided, the plurality of molded components 36 exist at respective separated positions. After the laser irradiation by the laser light source 13 stops, the dividing section 37 divides the support member 12 that suspends the sample U in a plane perpendicular to gravity. By dividing the support member 12, the support (support) of the sample U by the support member 12 is released, and the sample U falls.

[0091] The molding members 36 each move toward the center of the sample U, thereby catching the falling sample U and holding the sample U from the lateral direction. Afterwards, the molding members 36 further move toward the center of the sample U, thereby increasing the thickness of the sample U. In other words, the molding unit 30 pushes the molding members 36 to the falling sample U from at least two directions (+X direction, -X direction), thereby molding the sample U. Afterwards, the sample U is removed from the molding members 36 and cooled, thereby obtaining an optical glass of a desired thickness.

[0092] It should be noted that, in the present embodiment, the forming member 36 may also be a container with upright walls. In such a case, the forming member 36 moves the wall toward the center of the sample U, thereby applying pressure from the periphery of the sample U to increase the thickness of the sample U. In other words, the forming section 30 can form the sample U by allowing the falling sample U to enter the forming member 36 by dividing the holding member. It should be noted that the shape of the surface of the forming member 36 that contacts the sample U can be appropriately designed.

[0093] <Fifth embodiment>

[0094] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of a suspension furnace according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 8 (A) is one of the schematic diagrams (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 8 (B) is a second schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace of the fifth embodiment. The following describes the differences from the first embodiment. The forming section 30 of this embodiment has one or more forming members 35 (35a and 35b). The forming section 30 uses the forming members 35 to form the sample U that is heated, cooled to room temperature, and then heated again.

[0095] like Figure 8 As shown in (A), in a glass manufacturing apparatus 10, a sample U is suspended above a support member 12. At this time, a laser light source 13 (not shown) emits laser light L to the sample U, thereby heating the sample U. Thereafter, the sample U is cooled to room temperature to obtain an optical glass.

[0096] Next, the molding unit 30 heats the sample U again. The reheating can be performed by making the support member 12 hold the sample U and emitting the laser light L from the laser light source 13, or by other heating devices. The reheated sample U is arranged at a position where it can be molded by the molding member 35. The sample U arranged in the molding member 35 is molded at a temperature above the glass transition point and below the yield point. In other words, the sample U is reheated so that the sample U is above the glass transition point and below the yield point when it is molded.

[0097] The molding member 35 is a mold that can pressurize and mold the heated sample U. Similar to the molding member 33 of the above-mentioned embodiment, the molding member 35 preferably includes at least a part or all of stainless steel (SUS), aluminum alloy, quartz, or carbon.

[0098] Figure 8 In the example shown in (B), the forming member 35 is a plurality of members arranged around the sample U, and the sample U is pressurized from the lateral direction and from different directions toward the center of the sample U. After pressurization, the sample U is cooled again, so that an optical glass of a desired thickness can be obtained. It should be noted that the structure of the forming member is not limited to this example. For example, similar to the forming member 31 of the first embodiment, it can be a plurality of claw-shaped members, or it can be a container with upright walls into which a viscous sample U is inserted to deform the heated sample U.

[0099] According to this embodiment, the sample U that has finished floating can be formed, so the efficiency is improved. In addition, by reheating the sample U to a temperature above the glass transition point and below the yield point, it is possible to suppress devitrification while obtaining an optical glass of a desired thickness. It should be noted that the shape of the surface of the molding component 35 that contacts the sample U can be appropriately designed.

[0100] <Sixth embodiment>

[0101] In the above-mentioned first to fifth embodiments, the purpose is to increase the thickness of the sample U in the vertical direction (Z direction), but the diameter of the sample U in the horizontal direction (X direction) may also be increased. Fig. 9 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of a suspension furnace according to the sixth embodiment. Fig. 9 (A) is one of the schematic diagrams (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace according to the sixth embodiment. Fig. 9 (B) is a modified example of the molded component 381. Fig. 9 (C) is a second schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of the suspension furnace according to the sixth embodiment. Fig. 9 (D) is a modified example of the molding method of the sample U using the molded component 383.

[0102] Fig. 9 In the example shown in (A), the molding member 381 contacts the sample U suspended by the support member 12 from the gravity direction (-Z direction), and sandwiches the sample U between the support member 12 and the molding member 381. In other words, the sample U is pressurized from the upper part of the sample U by the molding member 381, thereby performing molding. Accordingly, the horizontal diameter of the sample U can be increased. The molding of the sample U by the molding member 381 is preferably performed at a temperature where the temperature of the sample U is below the yield point, and more preferably at a temperature where the temperature of the sample U is below the yield point and above the glass transition point. It should be noted that during molding, the suspension of the sample U by the support member 12 can be stopped or in a suspended state. At this time, the shape of the end of the molding member 381 on the sample U side can be a desired shape. For example, it can be Fig. 9 A lens shape such as the molded component 382 in (B), an aspherical lens shape (not shown), etc.

[0103] illustrate Fig. 9 The example shown in (C). The support member 12 is the same as that in the fourth embodiment, so the description is omitted. First, the sample U is suspended above the support member 12. The support member 12 is divided by the dividing portion 37, and the sample U falls in the direction of gravity. The forming member 383 catches the falling sample U. The sample U is formed along the shape of the forming member 383. In other words, the sample U can also be formed along the shape of the forming member 383 by utilizing its own weight. It should be noted that, if Fig. 9 (D) In ​​addition to utilizing the weight of the sample U itself, the sample U may be pressed from above the sample U on the molding member 383 using the molding member 381 to perform molding.

[0104] The sample U is preferably molded by the molding members 381 to 383 at a temperature at which the sample U is not higher than the yield point, and more preferably molded at a temperature not higher than the yield point and not lower than the glass transition point.

[0105] <Seventh embodiment>

[0106] The glass manufacturing apparatus 10 of the seventh embodiment can increase the diameter of the sample U in the horizontal direction (X direction) similarly to the sixth embodiment. Fig.10 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of a suspension furnace according to the seventh embodiment. Fig.10 (A) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of a molded component according to the seventh embodiment, Fig.10 (B) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing a modified example of the molded component of the seventh embodiment.

[0107] Fig.10In the example shown in (A), the forming section 30 has a forming member 384. The forming section 30 and Fig. 9 The molding members 381 and 382 shown similarly make the molding member 384 contact the sample U in the molten state suspended by the support member 12 from the gravity direction (-Z direction), and sandwich the sample U between the support member 12 and the molding member 384. That is, the molding member 384 is pushed from the upper part of the sample U in the molten state to the sample U to be molded. It should be noted that the suspension of the sample U can also be stopped before the molding member 384 contacts the sample U. In other words, the molding member 384 can also contact the sample U directly arranged on the support member 12 and supported in a contact manner.

[0108] Fig.10 The shape of the central part of the end of the sample U side of the molding member 384 shown in (A) is convex. As a result of molding using the molding member 384, the shape of the molding member 384 is printed (copied) on the upper part of the sample U so that the upper part has a concave shape in the central part, and the shape of the support member 12 is printed (copied) on the bottom of the sample U so that the bottom has the same shape. It should be noted that the support member 12 can appropriately adopt a desired shape.

[0109] Fig.10 The molded component 385 shown in (B) has a hole H. The hole H is a through hole that penetrates from the surface of the end side of the molded component 385 on the sample U side to the other surface of the molded component 385. If air is trapped at the interface between the molded component 385 and the sample U, there is a possibility of an unexpected (unintended) effect on the shape of the sample U. The hole H prevents air from being trapped at the interface between the molded component 385 and the sample U.

[0110] Note that the laser light L emitted from the laser light source 13 may be irradiated onto the sample U through the hole H. The molding member 385 may start molding the sample U after heating by irradiation with the laser light L is completed, or may start molding during heating.

[0111] <Eighth embodiment>

[0112] One of the purposes of the first to seventh embodiments is to increase the vertical thickness (Z direction) of the sample U or to increase the horizontal diameter (X direction or Y direction) of the sample U. The eighth embodiment can form the sample U into a desired shape. Fig.11 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of a suspension furnace according to the eighth embodiment. Fig.11 (A) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of a forming portion of the eighth embodiment, Fig.11 (B) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing a modified example of the forming portion of the eighth embodiment.

[0113] Fig.11 The forming section 30 shown in (A) includes a forming member 386 and an auxiliary member 387. The forming section 30 and Fig. 9 The forming members 381 and 382 shown and Fig.10 The molding members 384 and 385 shown in the figure similarly pressurize the sample U from above by moving the molding member 386 in the gravity direction (-Z direction). The auxiliary member 387 is a member arranged in a manner to surround the sample U in the horizontal direction. The auxiliary member 387 is a hollow cylindrical shape surrounding the entire circumference of the sample U. It should be noted that the auxiliary member 387 can be as follows Figure 3 The shape of the end of the molded member 386 on the sample U side can be made into a desired shape.

[0114] The forming member 386 descends and pressurizes the sample U in the molten state from above, so that the diameter of the sample U increases and contacts the auxiliary member 387. As a result, the diameter of the sample U is restricted by the shape of the auxiliary member 387. In other words, the auxiliary member 387 functions as a guide means for determining the size and shape of the sample U in the horizontal direction. Therefore, the sample U can be formed into a desired shape by the forming member 386 and the auxiliary member 387.

[0115] Fig.11 The forming section 30 shown in (B) includes a first forming member 388 and a second forming member 389. The forming section 30 and Fig.11 The molding member 386 of (A) is similarly moved in the gravity direction (-Z direction) by the first molding member 388, thereby pressurizing the sample U from above. Figure 3 The forming member 31 shown is similarly a plurality of claw-shaped members driven in a direction parallel to the horizontal direction, arranged so as to surround the sample U, and clamping the sample U from a plurality of different directions. That is, the forming unit 30 pushes the first forming member 388 from the upper part of the sample U in a molten state to the sample U, and drives the second forming member 389 in a predetermined plane intersecting the gravity direction and pushes it to the sample U in a molten state, thereby forming the sample U. Therefore, by using the forming unit 30 of this embodiment, the sample U can be formed into a desired shape.

[0116] <Ninth embodiment>

[0117] The glass manufacturing apparatus 10 according to the ninth embodiment forms the sample U into a desired shape by using a forming member 390 having a predetermined shape. Fig.12 It is a diagram for explaining a suspension furnace according to a ninth embodiment. Fig.12 (A) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of a forming portion of the ninth embodiment, Fig.12 (B) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) for explaining molding performed using the molding section of the ninth embodiment.

[0118] The forming unit 30 includes a plurality of forming members 390. Each forming member 390 is L-shaped in a cross-sectional view in the gravity direction, with the lower portion protruding toward the center of the sample U. Figure 3 The molding members 31 shown are similarly a plurality of claw-shaped members driven in a direction parallel to the horizontal direction, and are arranged so as to surround the sample U, thereby clamping the sample U from a plurality of different directions.

[0119] Fig.12 (B) is a cross-sectional view in the gravity direction of the sample U formed by the molding member 390 and the lens T formed using the sample U. By using the molding member 390 to pressurize the sample U, not only the thickness of the sample U is increased, but also the lower part U of the sample U is B The diameter is larger than the upper part U A As shown in this figure, the desired lens T has a cross section in the gravity direction that is roughly fan-shaped and the lower part U B The diameter is larger than the upper part U A In the case of a shape with a small diameter, the sample U can be formed into a shape closer to the lens T by using the molding member 390 of this embodiment.

[0120] In this embodiment, since the sample U is heated while being suspended, it is expected to more effectively utilize the volume of the sample U. By using the molding member 390 of this embodiment, the sample U can be formed into a shape close to the shape of the lens T. Therefore, even if the volume of the sample U that can be melted by suspension is limited, a lens T that more effectively utilizes the volume of the sample U can be obtained.

[0121] <Tenth embodiment>

[0122] In the glass manufacturing apparatus 10 according to the tenth embodiment, the support member 12 can be replaced with respect to the stage 11 . Fig.13 This is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of a suspension furnace according to the tenth embodiment. Fig.13 (A) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing an example of the vicinity of a suspension furnace according to the tenth embodiment. Fig.13 (B) is a schematic diagram (cross-sectional view) showing a modified example of the suspension furnace according to the tenth embodiment.

[0123] In this embodiment, the glass manufacturing apparatus 10 includes a fixing member 25. The material of the fixing member 25 can be appropriately selected, but it is preferred that at least a part or all of the fixing member 25 is made of stainless steel (SUS) or aluminum alloy.

[0124] The material of the support member 12 can be appropriately selected, but is preferably stainless steel (SUS), aluminum alloy, silicon carbide (SiC), or brass. Figure 2 The support member 12 is a base 121 of the first surface W1 and the second surface W2 shown in the figure; and a locking portion 122 locked to the stage 11. The material of the stage 11 is, for example, stainless steel (SUS) or aluminum alloy, and the stage 11 has a nozzle 111 and a fixing wall 112 erected substantially vertically upward, and the nozzle 111 is connected to the gas flow regulator 20 and supplies gas to the support member 12. The gas flow regulator 20 and the nozzle 111 function as a gas supply unit for supplying gas to float the sample U. The horizontal cross-section of the fixing wall 112 is, for example, circular, and the fixing wall 112 has a function of isolating a space filled with gas so that the gas ejected from the nozzle 111 does not leak to the outside.

[0125] The locking portion 122 is locked to the upper portion of the fixing wall 112. That is, the stage 11 supports the support member 12 from below. The support member 12 can be removed from the stage 11. The base 121 is located inside the fixing wall 112. Fig.13 As shown in (A), there may be a gap between the base 121 and the fixing wall 112. For example, when there is a hole for introducing gas on the side of the base 121, the gas is ejected from the hole on the side toward the first surface W1 due to the existence of the gap. It should be noted that there may be no gap between the base 121 and the fixing wall 112.

[0126] The fixing member 25 is disposed above the supporting member 12, and the fixing member 25 fixes the supporting member 12 to the stage 11. For example, Fig.13 As shown in (A), the fixing member 25 has: a horizontal surface 25a covering a portion of the supporting member 12; and a side surface 25b vertically connected to the edge of the horizontal surface 25a, and the horizontal surface 25a has an opening near the center to expose the concave surface R of the supporting member 12.

[0127] For example, the support member 12 is fixed to the stage 11 by a screw structure. Specifically, the inner side of the side surface 25b of the fixing member 25 is threaded so as to be engaged with a portion of the fixing wall 112. The fixing member 25 is rotated relative to the stage 11, and the fixing member 25 is fixed to the stage 11. As a result, a portion of the support member 12 is sandwiched between the fixing member 25 and the fixing wall 112, and the support member 12 is fixed to the stage 11.

[0128] It should be noted that the method of fixing the fixing member 25 to the stage 11 is not limited to this example. For example, the fixing member 25 may be fixed to the stage 11 by providing a through hole in the side surface 25b and screwing a screw into a screw hole provided from the outside to the inside of the fixing wall 112 through the through hole.

[0129] like Fig.13 As shown in (B), the glass manufacturing apparatus 10 may fix the support member 12 to the stage 11 without using the fixing member 25. In such a case, for example, the inner side of the fixing wall 112 is threaded so as to be engaged with a portion of the side surface of the support member 12. The support member 12 is fixed to the stage 11 by rotating the support member 12 relative to the fixing wall 112.

[0130] As described above, when the forming portion 30 is pushed from the upper part of the sample to the sample for forming, the shape of the concave surface R of the support member 12 is imprinted on the bottom of the sample U. The shape of the concave surface R of the support member 12 can be appropriately designed, such as a lens shape, an aspherical lens shape, a shape with a flat center, a shape with a concave or convex center, etc. In addition, the diameter of the concave surface R can also be designed according to the desired size of the glass. According to the glass manufacturing device 10 of this embodiment, a plurality of support members 12 are prepared, and after the first support member 12 is removed, the second support member 12 can be fixed to the carrier 11, so it can be easily replaced with the desired support member 12. In the case Fig.13 When the support member 12 is replaced in the glass manufacturing apparatus shown in (A), first, the fixing member 25 is removed from the stage 11. Then, after the first support member 12 is removed from the stage 11, the stage 11 supports the second support member 12, and the fixing member 25 is installed again.

[0131] It should be noted that, from the perspective of easy processing of the concave surface R and suppression of impurities from melting into the sample U, an aluminum alloy can be used for the support member 12. In addition, when the support member 12 is made of an aluminum alloy, in order to suppress the gradient of the temperature change of the entire suspension furnace, the stage 11 can use stainless steel (SUS) or the like having a lower thermal conductivity than the aluminum alloy. The support member 12 may deteriorate faster than the stage 11. According to the glass manufacturing apparatus 10 of this embodiment, when using the support member 12 that is more easily deteriorated than the stage 11, the support member 12 can be easily replaced.

[0132] <Heating control>

[0133] Fig.14 It is a diagram for explaining the heating control of the sample U in the first to tenth embodiments. Fig.14 (A) is a diagram showing an example of a standard heating amount (part 1), Fig.14 (B) is a diagram showing an example of a standard heating amount (part 2), Fig.14 (C) is a diagram showing an example of a state where the amount of heating is reduced. In addition, as described above, the processing object of the glass manufacturing apparatus 10 may be expressed as a "sample U".

[0134] The control unit 22 of the glass manufacturing apparatus 10 controls the output of the laser light source 13 based on the temperature information of the radiation thermometer 16, thereby functioning as a heating control unit that controls the heating amount of the sample U. The control unit 22 changes the heating amount so that, for example, the temperature of the sample U changes to below the yield point and above the glass transition point. For example, the control unit 22 reduces the output of the laser light source 13 to reduce the heating amount, so that the sample U is Fig.14 The state change of the laser L shown in (A) is Fig.14 The state of the laser L shown in (C) is shown. As a result, the forming unit 30 forms the sample U in the molten state whose temperature has changed based on the control of the heating amount by the control unit 22. The forming unit 30 can form the sample U during the period when the temperature of the sample U is reduced. The forming unit 30 forms the sample U at a temperature below the yield point and above the glass transition point, for example. It should be noted that the control unit 22 can also reduce the output of the laser light source 13 to zero, thereby reducing the heating amount.

[0135] In addition, for example, the control unit 22 reduces the number of laser beams output by the laser light source 13 to reduce the amount of heating, so that Fig.14 The state change of the laser L shown in (B) is Fig.14 The state of the laser L shown in (C) is as follows. Fig.14 Similarly to the example shown in (A), the forming unit 30 forms the sample U in the molten state whose temperature has changed based on the control of the heating amount by the control unit 22. It should be noted that the control unit 22 may also stop heating by some of the heating devices among the plurality of heating devices to reduce the heating amount.

[0136] <Melting process and forming process>

[0137] In the first to tenth embodiments described above, in the melting process, the sample U supported by the suspension part 21 in a non-contact manner is heated and melted by the heating part (laser light source 13). Alternatively, in this process, the laser light source 13 heats the sample U placed on the support member 12 in contact with the support member 12 to melt at least a portion of the sample U, and then the suspension part 21 suspends the sample U and further heats it. Alternatively, the sample U placed on the support member 12 may be melted, and the suspension part 21 suspends the sample U in a molten state. The suspension part 21 may stop suspending the sample U if it is a temperature condition that does not cause devitrification. In other words, it is preferred that the suspension part 21 supports the sample U in a non-contact manner at least during the period from when the melting of the raw material included in the sample U is completed to when the sample is cooled to a temperature condition that does not cause devitrification. In this way, devitrification caused by the contact between the sample U and the support member 12 in the cooling process can be suppressed.

[0138] In addition, in the above-mentioned first to tenth embodiments, the forming process performed by the forming unit 30 can be implemented after the irradiation of the laser L stops, or it can be implemented during the irradiation. In other words, even if the surface area of ​​the sample U irradiated by the laser L is limited, the entirety can be adjusted to a desired temperature by convection of the sample U. The forming process can be implemented at a temperature above the glass transition point of the sample U and at a temperature condition where the sample U does not lose transparency. In addition, the forming process can be implemented in a state where the sample U is suspended by a gas, that is, in a state where the sample U is not in contact with the support member 12, or it can be implemented in a state where the sample U is in contact with the support member 12.

[0139] In addition, before or during the forming process of the forming unit 30, the gas may be controlled to be ejected from the support member 12, or the gas ejection may be controlled to be stopped. It should be noted that the control unit controls to stop the ejection of gas from the support member 12 at a timing when the sample U does not lose transparency. In order to prevent deformation and damage of the sample U due to the ejection of gas, it is preferable to stop the ejection of gas.

[0140] In other words, the glass raw material supported by the support member 12 in a contact or non-contact manner may be an unvitrified raw material or a once-vitrified raw material. The glass raw material supported by the support member 12 in a non-contact manner, for example, when the glass raw material is an unvitrified raw material, may be a pressed body of oxide raw material powder or a sintered body thereof, or an aggregate of crystals having the same composition as the desired glass.

[0141] <Example>

[0142] Next, each embodiment will be described, but the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0143] <Example 1>

[0144] First, the raw materials of the oxides are weighed in such a way as to achieve a predetermined chemical composition, and then mixed in an alumina mortar. The raw materials are unidirectionally pressurized at 20 MPa to form cylindrical pellets. Then, the obtained pellets are fired in an electric furnace at 1200° C. in the atmosphere for 12 hours to produce a sintered body. In this embodiment, oxides are used as raw materials, but are not limited to oxides. Specifically, hydroxides, carbonates, nitrates, sulfates, phosphates, etc. may also be used as raw materials.

[0145] Next, the sintered body was roughly crushed and placed on Figure 1The supporting member 12 of the glass manufacturing apparatus 10 shown in the figure. Then, the raw material is melted by irradiating it with a carbon dioxide laser from above while jetting air. The molten raw material becomes roughly spherical due to its own surface tension and becomes suspended under the pressure of the gas. Then, the laser output is cut off at the time when the raw material is completely melted, thereby cooling the raw material to obtain a sample U. The diameter of the sample U at this time is measured. and thickness t.

[0146] Then, use Figure 3 The molded part 31 shown is subjected to pressure from the periphery of the sample U and then cooled. The diameter of the sample U after cooling is measured. and thickness t. It should be noted that no devitrification was observed in the optical glass obtained as a result of cooling.

[0147] <Example 2>

[0148] The raw materials described separately were weighed and then mixed in the same manner as in Example 1 to obtain pellets. Then, the raw materials were melted in the same manner as in Example 1, and the laser output was cut off to obtain a cooled sample U. The diameter of the sample U was then measured. and thickness t. Then, use Figure 4 The suction unit 32 shown sucks the sample U from the top and then cools it. The diameter of the sample U after cooling is measured. and thickness t.

[0149] Table 1 shows the composition of the raw materials in each example.

[0150] [Table 1]

[0151] mol% Example 1 Example 2 <![CDATA[SiO2]]> 16.61 16.29 <![CDATA[La2O3]]> 17.07 16.72 <![CDATA[TiO2]]> 52.00 53.42 <![CDATA[ZrO2]]> 11.45 10.86 <![CDATA[Ta2O5]]> 2.87 2.72

[0152] <Evaluation>

[0153] Fig.15 The measurement results of the sample U obtained by the results of Example 1 and Example 2 are shown. Fig.15 It was confirmed that the thickness of the sample U in each example was increased. It should be noted that no devitrification was confirmed in the glass of each example.

[0154] From the above, it was confirmed that the glass manufacturing apparatus 10 according to each embodiment can stably manufacture optical glass having a desired diameter and thickness.

[0155] <Example 3>

[0156] The raw material (sample U in the raw material state) described separately is weighed, and then mixed in the same manner as in Example 1 to obtain pellets. Then, the raw material is melted in the same manner as in Example 1, and the laser output is cut off, thereby obtaining a cooled sample U. Then, the diameter before forming, which is the diameter of the sample U, and the thickness of the thickest part before forming, which is the thickness of the thickest part, are measured. Next, the carbon dioxide laser is irradiated from above while air is sprayed again, thereby melting the sample U. After that, after the laser output is cut off, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As shown in (B), a forming member 382 having a concave shape at the end of one side of the sample U is used, and the sample U is pressurized from the top, and then fully cooled. The support member 12 uses a planar shape in the central part of the concave surface R. The diameter after forming, which is the diameter of the sample U after cooling, the thickness of the thickest part after forming, which is the thickness of the thickest part of the sample U after cooling, and the thickness of the thinnest part after forming, which is the thickness of the thinnest part of the sample U after cooling, are measured. It should be noted that no devitrification was observed in the optical glass obtained as a result of cooling.

[0157] <Example 4>

[0158] The raw material (sample U in the raw material state) described separately is weighed, and then mixed in the same manner as in Example 1 to obtain pellets. Then, the raw material is melted in the same manner as in Example 1, and the laser output is cut off to obtain a cooled sample U. The diameter before forming, which is the diameter of the sample U, and the thickness of the thickest part before forming, which is the thickness of the thickest part, are measured. Next, the sample U is melted by irradiating it from above with a carbon dioxide laser while jetting air again. Then, after the laser output is cut off, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As shown in (A), a forming member 381 having a flat shape at the end of one side of the sample U is used, and the sample U is pressurized from the top and then fully cooled. The support member 12 uses a concave surface R with a flat central portion. The diameter after forming, which is the diameter of the sample U after cooling, the thickness of the thickest part after forming, which is the thickness of the thickest part of the sample U after cooling, and the thickness of the thinnest part after forming, which is the thickness of the thinnest part of the sample U after cooling, are measured. It should be noted that no devitrification was observed in the optical glass obtained as a result of cooling.

[0159] <Example 5>

[0160] The raw materials (sample U in the raw material state) described separately are weighed, and then mixed in the same manner as in Example 1 to obtain pellets. Then, the raw materials are melted in the same manner as in Example 1, and the laser output is cut off to obtain a cooled sample U. The diameter before forming, which is the diameter of the sample U, and the thickness of the thickest part before forming, which is the thickness of the thickest part, are measured. Next, the sample U is melted by irradiating it from above with a carbon dioxide laser while jetting air again. Then, after cutting off the laser output, use Fig.11 The forming unit 30 shown in (A) forms the sample U and then fully cools it. That is, the forming unit 30 surrounds the sample U with the auxiliary member 387 and presses the sample U from above with the forming member 386. The forming member 386 uses a convex shape at the end of one side of the sample U. The support member 12 uses a planar shape with the central part of the concave surface R.

[0161] The diameter after forming, which is the diameter of the cooled sample U, the thickness of the thickest part after forming, which is the thickness of the thickest part of the cooled sample U, and the thickness of the thinnest part after forming, which is the thickness of the thinnest part of the cooled sample U, were measured. It should be noted that devitrification was not observed in the optical glass obtained as a result of cooling.

[0162] <Example 6>

[0163] The raw materials described separately (sample U in the raw material state) were weighed and then mixed in the same manner as in Example 1 to obtain pellets. Thereafter, the raw materials were melted in the same manner as in Example 1, and the laser output was cut off to obtain cooled sample U. Two such samples U were prepared. The weights of the obtained samples U1 and U2 were measured.

[0164] Sample U1 was melted by irradiating it with a carbon dioxide laser from above while blowing air, and then the laser output was turned off. Figure 3 The molded component 31 shown was subjected to pressure from the surroundings and then sufficiently cooled. The diameter and thickness of the sample U1 after cooling were measured. No devitrification was observed in the optical glass obtained as a result of cooling.

[0165] Sample U2 was melted by irradiating it with a carbon dioxide laser from above while blowing air, and then the laser output was turned off. Fig.12 The molded component 390 shown is subjected to pressure from the surroundings and then fully cooled. The thickness of the sample U2 after cooling, the upper portion U A The diameter and lower part U B It should be noted that, similar to the support member 12 used in the molding of the sample U1, the shape of the central portion of the concave surface R of the support member 12 is a flat surface. No devitrification was observed in the optical glass obtained by cooling. It should be noted that the upper portion U A and the lower part U B and Fig.12 The same as the example shown in (B).

[0166] Table 2 shows the compositions of the raw materials of Examples 3 to 6.

[0167] [Table 2]

[0168] mol% Embodiments 3 to 6 <![CDATA[SiO2]]> 14.13 <![CDATA[La2O3]]> 14.24 <![CDATA[TiO2]]> 55.70 <![CDATA[ZrO2]]> 10.28 <![CDATA[Y2O3]]> 4.11 <![CDATA[Al2O3]]> 1.54

[0169] <Evaluation>

[0170] Fig.16 The measurement results of the sample U obtained by the results of Examples 3 to 5 are shown. In Example 3, the shape of the molding component 382 used was printed on the sample U, and an optical glass was obtained in which the center portion was the thickness of the thickest part after molding and the edge portion was the thickness of the thinnest part after molding. In addition, in Example 4, since the shape of the end of the molding component 381 on one side of the sample U is a flat shape, the difference between the thickness of the thickest part after molding and the thickness of the thinnest part after molding is smaller than that of other examples. In addition, in Example 5, the shape of the molding component 386 was printed on the sample U, and an optical glass was obtained in which the center portion was the thickness of the thinnest part after molding and the edge portion was the thickness of the thickest part after molding.

[0171] It is known that the diameter after forming is larger than the diameter before forming and the thickness of the thickest part after forming is smaller than the thickness of the thickest part before forming in Examples 3 to 5. Based on the above, it is confirmed that the glass manufacturing apparatus according to each embodiment can stably manufacture optical glass of desired diameter and thickness.

[0172] Fig.17 This is a diagram showing the measurement results of Sample U1 and Sample U2 obtained as a result of Example 6. Fig.17 (A) is a diagram showing the measurement results of sample U1, Fig.17 (B) is a graph showing the measurement results of sample U2. Since sample U1 is used, the interface on the side of sample U1 is a flat surface. Figure 3 The diameter of the sample U1 and the sample U2 are equal in weight, but the sample U2 formed by the forming member 390 is the lower part U1. B The diameter of the glass is smaller than that of the sample U1 and the thickness is larger. In other words, it is confirmed that: Fig.12 The molding member 390 shown can stably produce an optical glass having a desired shape with a small lower diameter.

[0173] It should be noted that in the above-mentioned embodiment, in order to measure the shape of the glass before and after forming, the raw material is melted and then cooled to obtain the sample U (or samples U1 and U2) before forming, and then the sample U is melted again and formed after the laser is stopped. However, it is obvious that after the raw material is melted and the laser is stopped, the sample U before forming can be obtained by forming without cooling, and the sample U after forming can be obtained.

[0174] <Optical elements, optical systems, interchangeable lenses for cameras, optical devices, etc.>

[0175] The optical glass obtained by the glass manufacturing device 10 of each embodiment can be suitable for use as an optical element, for example, an optical device. Such optical elements include reflectors, lenses, prisms, filters, etc., which can be widely used as optical systems. The optical system of this embodiment can be suitable for use as a replacement lens for a camera containing these optical systems. Such optical elements, optical lenses, and replacement lenses for cameras can adopt a known structure (configuration). Moreover, the optical system of this embodiment can be suitable for use as an optical device containing these optical systems. The optical devices containing these optical systems are not particularly limited, and for example, imaging devices such as lens-interchangeable cameras and lens-non-interchangeable cameras, optical microscopes, etc. can be cited. An example thereof is described below.

[0176] (Camera device)

[0177] Fig.18 This is a perspective view of an example in which the optical device of each embodiment is used as an imaging device.

[0178] The imaging device 1 is a so-called digital single-lens reflex camera (interchangeable lens camera), and a photographic lens (optical system) 103 is provided with a cured article of the present embodiment. A lens barrel 102 is detachably mounted on a lens mount (not shown) of a camera body 101. Light from a lens 103 that has passed through the lens barrel 102 is imaged on a sensor chip (solid-state imaging element) 104 of a multi-chip module 106 disposed on the back side of the camera body 101. The sensor chip 104 is a bare chip such as a so-called CMOS image sensor, and the multi-chip module 106 is a COG (Chip On Glass) type module in which, for example, the sensor chip 104 is mounted on a glass substrate 105 in a bare chip manner.

[0179] Fig.19 is a front view of another example in which the optical device of each embodiment is used as an imaging device. Fig. 20 A rear view of the imaging device is shown.

[0180] The camera device CAM is a so-called digital still camera (non-interchangeable lens camera), and the photographic lens (optical system) WL has a solidified product of the present embodiment. In the camera device CAM, if the power button (not shown) is pressed, the shutter (not shown) of the photographic lens WL is opened, and the light from the subject (object) is converged by the photographic lens WL and formed on the imaging element arranged on the image plane. The subject image formed on the imaging element is displayed on the liquid crystal display M arranged behind the camera device CAM. The photographer decides the composition of the subject image while observing the liquid crystal display M, and then presses the release button B1 to shoot the subject image with the imaging element, and record and save it in a memory (not shown). The camera device CAM is provided with an auxiliary light emitting unit EF that emits auxiliary light when the subject is dark, and a function button B2 for setting various conditions of the camera device CAM.

[0181] For the optical system used in such a digital camera, etc., higher resolution, light weight, and miniaturization are required. In order to achieve these functions, it is effective to use glass with a high refractive index in the optical system. From this aspect, the optical glass of each embodiment is suitable as a component (member) of the optical device. It should be noted that, as an optical device applicable to each embodiment, it is not limited to the above-mentioned camera device, and for example, a projector, etc. can also be cited. Optical elements are not limited to lenses, and for example, prisms, etc. can also be cited.

[0182] (Multiphoton Microscopy)

[0183] Fig.21 This is a block diagram of an example in which the optical device of each embodiment is used as a multiphoton microscope.

[0184] The multiphoton microscope 2 includes, as optical elements, an objective lens 206, a condenser lens 208, and an imaging lens 210. The following description will focus on the optical system of the multiphoton microscope 2.

[0185] The pulse laser device 201 emits, for example, ultrashort pulse light of near-infrared wavelength (about 1000 nm) and pulse width in femtoseconds (e.g., 100 femtoseconds). The ultrashort pulse light immediately after being emitted from the pulse laser device 201 generally forms linearly polarized light polarized in a predetermined direction.

[0186] The pulse splitting device 202 splits the ultrashort pulse light, increases the repetition frequency of the ultrashort pulse light, and then emits the split pulse light.

[0187] The beam adjustment unit 203 has the following functions: a function of adjusting the beam diameter of the ultrashort pulse light incident from the pulse splitting device 202 in accordance with the pupil diameter of the objective lens 206; a function of adjusting the convergence and divergence angles of the ultrashort pulse light in order to correct the axial chromatic aberration (focal difference) between the wavelength of the multi-photon excitation light emitted from the sample S and the wavelength of the ultrashort pulse light; a function of pre-chirping the ultrashort pulse light with an opposite group velocity dispersion (group velocity dispersion compensation function) in order to correct the situation in which the pulse width of the ultrashort pulse light becomes wider due to group velocity dispersion while passing through the optical system, etc.

[0188] The ultrashort pulse light emitted from the pulse laser device 201 increases its repetition frequency under the action of the pulse splitting device 202, and the above adjustment is performed by the beam adjusting unit 203. In addition, the ultrashort pulse light emitted from the beam adjusting unit 203 is reflected by the dichroic mirror 204 in the direction of the dichroic mirror 205, passes through the dichroic mirror 205, is converged by the objective lens 206, and irradiates the sample S. At this time, the ultrashort pulse light can be scanned on the observation surface of the sample S by using a scanning unit (not shown).

[0189] For example, when performing fluorescence observation on sample S, in the area where sample S is irradiated with ultrashort pulse light and its vicinity, the fluorescent pigment that dyes sample S is subjected to multi-photon excitation and emits fluorescence having a wavelength shorter than the infrared wavelength of the ultrashort pulse light (hereinafter referred to as "observation light").

[0190] The observation light emitted from the sample S toward the objective lens 206 is collimated by the objective lens 206 , and is reflected by the dichroic mirror 205 or passes through the dichroic mirror 205 according to its wavelength.

[0191] The observation light reflected by the dichroic mirror 205 enters the fluorescence detection unit 207. The fluorescence detection unit 207 is composed of, for example, a blocking filter, a PMT (photo multiplier tube), etc., receives the observation light reflected by the dichroic mirror 205, and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the light quantity. In addition, the fluorescence detection unit 207 detects the observation light on the observation surface of the sample S in coordination with the scanning of the ultrashort pulse light on the observation surface of the sample S.

[0192] On the other hand, the observation light passing through the dichroic mirror 205 is descanned by a scanning unit (not shown), passes through the dichroic mirror 204, is focused by the focusing lens 208, passes through a pinhole 209 set at a position roughly conjugate with the focal position of the objective lens 206, passes through the imaging lens 210, and is incident on the fluorescence detection unit 211.

[0193] The fluorescence detection unit 211 is composed of, for example, a blocking filter, a PMT, etc., receives the observation light formed by the imaging lens 210 on the light receiving surface of the fluorescence detection unit 211, and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the light quantity. In addition, the fluorescence detection unit 211 detects the observation light on the observation surface of the sample S by scanning the ultrashort pulse light on the observation surface of the sample S.

[0194] It should be noted that the dichroic mirror 205 may be removed from the optical path so that all observation light emitted from the sample S in the direction of the objective lens 206 may be detected by the fluorescence detection unit 211 .

[0195] In addition, the observation light emitted from the sample S in the direction opposite to the objective lens 206 is reflected by the dichroic mirror 212 and enters the fluorescence detection unit 213. The fluorescence detection unit 113 is composed of, for example, a blocking filter, a PMT, etc., receives the observation light reflected by the dichroic mirror 212, and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the light amount. In addition, the fluorescence detection unit 213 detects the observation light on the observation surface of the sample S in coordination with the scanning of the ultrashort pulse light on the observation surface of the sample S.

[0196] The electrical signals outputted from the fluorescence detection units 207 , 211 , and 213 are inputted into, for example, a computer (not shown), and the computer can generate an observation image based on the input electrical signals, display the generated observation image, or store the observation image data.

[0197] <Joint lens>

[0198] Fig. 22 Schematic diagram showing an example of a joined lens of each embodiment. The joined lens 3 is a composite lens having a first lens element 301 and a second lens element 302. At least one of the first lens element and the second lens element uses the optical glass of this embodiment. The first lens element and the second lens element are joined by a joining component 303. As the joining component 303, a known adhesive or the like can be used. It should be noted that, with respect to the lenses constituting the joined lens, from the aspect of clarifying that they are elements of the joined lens, they are sometimes referred to as "lens elements" as described above.

[0199] The joint lens of each embodiment is useful in the aspect of chromatic aberration correction, and can be suitable for the above-mentioned optical element, optical system, optical device, etc. In addition, the optical system including the joint lens is particularly suitable for camera interchangeable lens, optical device, etc. It should be noted that in the above-mentioned manner, the joint lens using two lens elements is described, but it is not limited to this, and it can also be a joint lens using more than three lens elements. In the case of making a joint lens using more than three lens elements, at least one of the more than three lens elements can be formed using the optical glass of this embodiment.

[0200] <Notes>

[0201] Some aspects of the present disclosure are described below. (1)

[0203] A glass manufacturing device manufactures glass by a step of lowering the temperature of glass raw material supported in a non-contact manner, the glass manufacturing device comprising:

[0204] a heating unit for heating the glass raw material;

[0205] a heating control unit for controlling the amount of heat applied to the glass raw material by the heating unit; and

[0206] A forming section that forms the glass raw material in a molten state whose temperature has been changed based on the control of the heating amount by the heating control section. (2)

[0208] The glass manufacturing device according to (1), wherein:

[0209] The forming unit forms the glass raw material in a molten state while the temperature of the glass raw material is lowered based on the control of the heating control unit to reduce the heating amount. (3)

[0211] The glass manufacturing device according to (2), wherein:

[0212] The heating unit heats the glass raw material by using a plurality of heating devices.

[0213] The heating control unit reduces the heating amount by stopping heating by some of the plurality of heating devices. (4)

[0215] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein:

[0216] The heating control unit changes the heating amount of the heating unit to change the temperature of the glass raw material in a molten state to a temperature below the deformation point,

[0217] The forming unit forms the glass raw material in the molten state at a temperature not higher than the deformation point. (5)

[0219] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein:

[0220] The heating control unit changes the heating amount of the heating unit to change the temperature of the glass raw material in a molten state to a temperature equal to or higher than the glass transition point of the glass,

[0221] The forming unit forms the glass raw material in the molten state at a temperature equal to or higher than the glass transition point. (6)

[0223] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein:

[0224] The forming section includes a forming member for forming the shape of the glass material in a molten state, and the forming section pushes the forming member against the glass material in a molten state to form the glass material. (7)

[0226] The glass manufacturing device according to (6), wherein:

[0227] The forming section includes a plurality of the forming members, and the forming section pushes the plurality of forming members to the glass raw material in a molten state to form the shape of the glass raw material in a molten state. (8)

[0229] The glass manufacturing device according to (7), wherein:

[0230] The forming section includes four or more forming members, and the forming section drives the plurality of forming members within a predetermined plane to form the shape of the glass raw material in a molten state. (9)

[0232] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (6) to (8), wherein:

[0233] The forming member is in the shape of an arc. (10)

[0235] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (6) to (9), wherein:

[0236] The cross-sectional view of the molded component in the gravity direction is L-shaped. (11)

[0238] The glass manufacturing device according to (6), wherein:

[0239] The forming section pushes the forming member onto the glass raw material in a molten state from above the glass raw material in a molten state to form the glass raw material in a molten state. (12)

[0241] The glass manufacturing device according to (11), wherein:

[0242] The glass manufacturing device comprises: a support portion capable of supporting the glass raw material in a contact manner and a non-contact manner,

[0243] The shaping unit pushes the shaping member onto the molten glass material from above the molten glass material, and shapes the molten glass material by sandwiching the molten glass material between the support unit and the shaping member. (13)

[0245] The glass manufacturing device according to (11) or (12), wherein:

[0246] The forming section includes an auxiliary member surrounding the glass material in a molten state, and the forming section pushes the forming member to the glass material in a molten state surrounded by the auxiliary member to form the glass material in a molten state. (14)

[0248] The glass manufacturing device according to (13), wherein

[0249] The auxiliary member is cylindrical. (15)

[0251] The glass manufacturing device according to (6), wherein:

[0252] The forming section pushes a first forming member among the forming members to the glass raw material in a molten state from above the glass raw material in a molten state, and drives a plurality of forming members different from the first forming member in a predetermined plane intersecting with the direction of gravity to push the plurality of forming members to the glass raw material in a molten state, thereby forming the glass raw material in a molten state. (16)

[0254] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein:

[0255] The forming section includes a suction section, and the forming section performs forming by sucking the glass raw material in a molten state through the suction section. (17)

[0257] The glass manufacturing device according to (16), wherein:

[0258] The formed portion is cylindrical. (18)

[0260] The glass manufacturing device according to (16) or (17), wherein:

[0261] The forming section includes: the suction section; and a forming member that forms the glass raw material in the molten state. (19)

[0263] The glass manufacturing device according to (18), wherein:

[0264] In the forming section, the suction section is provided to surround the forming member in a plane orthogonal to a gravity direction. (20)

[0266] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (1) to (19), wherein:

[0267] The glass manufacturing device comprises: a support portion capable of supporting the glass raw material in a contact manner and a non-contact manner,

[0268] The support portion has a jet port through which gas is jetted, and the support portion supports the glass-making raw material in a non-contact manner by the gas jetted from the jet port. (twenty one)

[0270] The glass manufacturing device according to (20), wherein:

[0271] The support portion stops ejecting the gas before or during the forming portion forms the glass raw material. (twenty two)

[0273] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (6) to (15), (18), and (19), wherein:

[0274] The melting point of the molded component is 500 degrees or more. (twenty three)

[0276] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (6) to (15), (18), (19), and (22), wherein:

[0277] The formed component is an aluminum alloy. (twenty four)

[0279] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (1) to (23), wherein:

[0280] The glass manufacturing device comprises: a support portion capable of supporting the glass raw material in a contact manner and a non-contact manner,

[0281] The supporting part supports the glass raw material in a non-contact manner by static electricity. (25)

[0283] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (1) to (24), wherein:

[0284] The heating unit heats the glass-making raw material supported in a non-contact manner. (26)

[0286] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (1) to (25), wherein:

[0287] The heating unit is a laser. (27)

[0289] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (1) to (26), wherein:

[0290] The glass raw material is a pressed body or a sintered body thereof, or an aggregate of crystals. (28)

[0292] A glass produced using the glass producing apparatus according to any one of (1) to (27). (29)

[0294] An optical system using the glass described in (28). (30)

[0296] An optical device using the optical system described in (29). (31)

[0298] A method for producing glass, comprising producing glass using the glass producing apparatus described in any one of (1) to (27). (32)

[0300] A method for manufacturing glass, comprising: manufacturing glass by lowering the temperature of glass raw materials supported in a non-contact manner; the method comprising:

[0301] A melting step of heating the glass raw material by a heating unit to melt the glass raw material;

[0302] a heating control step of controlling the amount of heat applied to the glass raw material by the heating unit; and

[0303] A forming step of forming the glass raw material in a molten state whose temperature has been changed by controlling the heating amount in the heating control step. (33)

[0305] The method for manufacturing glass according to (32), wherein:

[0306] In the forming step, the glass raw material in a molten state is formed by a forming part at a temperature not less than the glass transition point and not more than the deformation point of the glass. (34)

[0308] A glass manufacturing device is provided for manufacturing glass by cooling glass raw materials, the glass manufacturing device comprising:

[0309] a supporting member for supporting the glass raw material in a molten state in a non-contact manner; and

[0310] a stage to which the support member is fixed,

[0311] The supporting member is detachable from the stage. (35)

[0313] The glass manufacturing device according to (34), wherein:

[0314] The supporting member is fixed to the stage by a threaded structure. (36)

[0316] The glass manufacturing device according to (35), wherein:

[0317] The glass manufacturing device further comprises: a second supporting member different from the first supporting member as the supporting member, the second supporting member supporting the glass raw material in a molten state in a non-contact manner;

[0318] The second supporting member is fixed to the stage after the first supporting member is removed. (37)

[0320] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (35) or (36), wherein:

[0321] The glass manufacturing device comprises: a fixing member for fixing the supporting member to the stage,

[0322] The stage supports the support member from below,

[0323] The fixing member is arranged above the supporting member. (38)

[0325] The glass manufacturing device according to (37), wherein:

[0326] The fixing member is made of stainless steel (SUS) or aluminum alloy. (39)

[0328] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (34) to (38), wherein

[0329] The glass manufacturing device includes: a gas supply unit for supplying a gas for floating the glass raw material in a molten state;

[0330] The supporting member has a jet port for jetting the gas supplied by the gas supply unit, and the supporting member supports the molten glass material in a non-contact manner by floating the molten glass material above the supporting member with the gas jetted from the jet port. (40)

[0332] The glass manufacturing device according to any one of (34) to (39), wherein:

[0333] The support member is made of stainless steel (SUS), aluminum alloy, silicon carbide (SiC) or brass.

[0334] Explanation of symbols

[0335] 1...imaging device (lens-interchangeable camera), 10...glass manufacturing device, 11...stage, 12...support member, 13...laser light source, 14, 15...reflecting mirrors, 16...radiation thermometer, 17...computer, 18...CCD camera, 19...monitor, 20...gas flow regulator, 21...suspension unit, L...laser, 22...control unit, 23...calculation unit, 24...ejection port, R...concave surface, U...sample, W1... one side, W2...second side, 30...molding portion, 31a, 31b, 31c, 31d, 31e, 31f, 31g, 31h, 33, 35, 35a, 35b, 36a, 36b, 381, 382, ​​383, 384, 385, 386, 390...molding member, 387...auxiliary member, 388...first molded member, 389...second molded member, 112...fixing wall, 121...base , 122...locking part, 25...fixing member, 25a...horizontal surface, 25b...side surface, 32...suction part, 34, 111...nozzle, 37...dividing part, 101...camera body, 102...lens barrel, 103...lens, 104...sensor chip, 105...glass substrate, 106...multi-chip module, H...hole, T...lens, CAM...imaging device (non-interchangeable lens camera), WL...photographic lens, M...liquid crystal display, EF...auxiliary light emitting part, B1...release button, B2...function button, 2...multiphoton microscope, 201...pulse laser device, 202...pulse splitting device, 203...beam adjusting part, 204, 205, 212...dichroic mirror, 206...objective lens, 207, 211, 213...fluorescence detection part, 208...converging lens, 209...pinhole, 210...imaging lens, S, U...sample, U A ...the upper part, U B …lower part, 3…joined lens, 301…first lens element, 302…second lens element, 303…joined component.

Claims

1. A glass manufacturing device for manufacturing glass by a step of lowering the temperature of glass raw materials supported in a non-contact manner, the glass manufacturing device comprising: a heating unit for heating the glass raw material; and A forming section that forms the glass raw material in a molten state while the temperature of the glass raw material in a molten state is lowered.

2. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 1, wherein: The forming unit forms the glass raw material in a molten state after the heating unit stops heating the glass raw material.

3. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The glass manufacturing device comprises: a control unit for controlling the forming unit, The control unit controls the forming unit based on conditions utilizing predetermined characteristics of the glass.

4. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 3, wherein: The control unit includes a calculation unit that calculates a timing for shaping the glass material in a molten state based on the condition, and the control unit controls the shaping unit so that the shaping unit shapes the glass material in a molten state at the timing calculated by the calculation unit.

5. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 3, wherein: The control unit includes a measuring unit that measures the temperature of the glass raw material in a molten state, the control unit determines the timing for shaping the glass raw material in a molten state based on the measurement result of the measuring unit and the condition, and controls the shaping unit so that the shaping unit shapes the glass raw material in a molten state at the timing.

6. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The predetermined property is the temperature of the yield point of the glass.

7. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein: The conditions are: the temperature of the glass raw material in the molten state is a temperature below the yield point of the glass, The control unit controls the forming unit so that the forming unit forms the glass raw material in the molten state in a state where the condition is satisfied.

8. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 7, wherein: The predetermined property is the glass transition point of the glass.

9. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 8, wherein: The conditions are as follows: the temperature of the glass raw material in the molten state is a temperature below the deformation point of the glass and above the glass transition point of the glass, The control unit controls the forming unit so that the forming unit forms the glass raw material in the molten state in a state where the condition is satisfied.

10. A glass manufacturing device for manufacturing glass by a step of lowering the temperature of glass raw material supported in a non-contact manner, the glass manufacturing device comprising: a heating unit for heating the glass raw material; a heating control unit for controlling the amount of heat applied to the glass raw material by the heating unit; and A forming section that forms the glass raw material in a molten state whose temperature has been changed based on the control of the heating amount by the heating control section.

11. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 10, wherein: The forming unit forms the glass raw material in a molten state while the temperature of the glass raw material is lowered based on the control of the heating control unit to reduce the heating amount.

12. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 11, wherein: The heating unit heats the glass raw material by using a plurality of heating devices. The heating control unit reduces the heating amount by stopping heating by some of the plurality of heating devices.

13. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein: The heating control unit changes the heating amount of the heating unit to change the temperature of the glass raw material in a molten state to a temperature below the deformation point, The forming unit forms the glass raw material in the molten state at a temperature not higher than the deformation point.

14. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein: The heating control unit changes the heating amount of the heating unit to change the temperature of the glass raw material in a molten state to a temperature equal to or higher than the glass transition point of the glass, The forming unit forms the glass raw material in the molten state at a temperature equal to or higher than the glass transition point.

15. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: The forming section includes a forming member for forming the shape of the glass material in a molten state, and the forming section pushes the forming member against the glass material in a molten state to form the glass material.

16. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 15, wherein: The forming section includes a plurality of the forming members, and the forming section pushes the plurality of forming members to the glass raw material in a molten state to form the shape of the glass raw material in a molten state.

17. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 16, wherein: The forming section includes four or more forming members, and the forming section drives the plurality of forming members within a predetermined plane to form the shape of the glass raw material in a molten state.

18. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein: The forming member is in the shape of an arc.

19. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein: The cross-sectional view of the molded component in the gravity direction is L-shaped.

20. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 15, wherein: The forming section pushes the forming member onto the glass raw material in a molten state from above the glass raw material in a molten state to form the glass raw material in a molten state.

21. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 20, wherein: The glass manufacturing device comprises: a support portion capable of supporting the glass raw material in a contact manner and a non-contact manner, The shaping unit pushes the shaping member onto the molten glass material from above the molten glass material, and shapes the molten glass material by sandwiching the molten glass material between the support unit and the shaping member.

22. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 20 or 21, wherein: The forming section includes an auxiliary member surrounding the glass material in a molten state, and the forming section pushes the forming member to the glass material in a molten state surrounded by the auxiliary member to form the glass material in a molten state.

23. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 22, wherein: The auxiliary member is cylindrical.

24. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 15, wherein: The forming section pushes a first forming member among the forming members to the glass raw material in a molten state from above the glass raw material in a molten state, and drives a plurality of forming members different from the first forming member in a predetermined plane intersecting with the direction of gravity to push the plurality of forming members to the glass raw material in a molten state, thereby forming the glass raw material in a molten state.

25. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: The forming section includes a suction section, and the forming section performs forming by sucking the glass raw material in a molten state through the suction section.

26. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 25, wherein: The formed portion is cylindrical.

27. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 25 or 26, wherein: The forming section includes: the suction section; and a forming member that forms the glass raw material in the molten state.

28. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 27, wherein: In the forming section, the suction section is provided to surround the forming member in a plane orthogonal to a gravity direction.

29. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: The forming section includes a nozzle for blowing gas onto the glass raw material in a molten state supported in a non-contact manner, and the forming section forms the glass raw material in a molten state by the gas ejected from the nozzle.

30. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: The glass manufacturing device comprises: a support portion capable of supporting the glass raw material in a contact manner and a non-contact manner, The support portion includes: a support member that supports the glass raw material in a molten state in a non-contact manner; and a dividing portion for dividing the support member with respect to a plane perpendicular to gravity, The dividing portion divides the plane into a supporting member that supports the glass raw material in a molten state in a non-contact manner. The forming section includes a plurality of forming members for forming the shape of the molten glass material, and the forming section forms the molten glass material by pushing the forming members from at least two directions to the molten glass material dropped from the supporting member.

31. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: The glass manufacturing device comprises: a support portion capable of supporting the glass raw material in a contact manner and a non-contact manner, The support portion includes: a support member that supports the glass raw material in a molten state in a non-contact manner; and a dividing portion for dividing the support member with respect to a plane perpendicular to gravity, The dividing portion divides the plane into a supporting member that supports the glass raw material in a molten state in a non-contact manner. The forming section includes a plurality of forming members for forming the shape of the molten glass material, and the forming section forms the molten glass material by allowing the molten glass material dropped from the supporting member to enter the forming members.

32. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein: The glass manufacturing device comprises: a support portion capable of supporting the glass raw material in a contact manner and a non-contact manner, The support portion has a jet port through which gas is jetted, and the support portion supports the glass-making raw material in a non-contact manner by the gas jetted from the jet port.

33. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 32, wherein: The support portion stops ejecting the gas before or during the forming portion forms the glass raw material.

34. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 15 to 24, 27, 28, 30, and 31, wherein: The melting point of the molded component is 500 degrees or more.

35. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 15 to 24, 27, 28, 30, 31, and 34, wherein: The formed component is an aluminum alloy.

36. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 35, wherein: The glass manufacturing device comprises: a support portion capable of supporting the glass raw material in a contact manner and a non-contact manner, The supporting part supports the glass raw material in a non-contact manner by static electricity.

37. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 36, wherein: The heating unit heats the glass-making raw material supported in a non-contact manner.

38. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 37, wherein: The heating unit is a laser.

39. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 1 to 38, wherein: The glass raw material is a pressed body or a sintered body thereof, or an aggregate of crystals. 40 . Glass manufactured using the glass manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1 . An optical system using the glass according to claim 40.

42. An optical device using the optical system according to claim 41.

43. A method for producing glass, comprising producing glass using the glass producing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 39.

44. A method for manufacturing glass, comprising: manufacturing glass by lowering the temperature of glass raw material supported in a non-contact manner, the method comprising: A melting step of heating the glass raw material by a heating unit to melt the glass raw material; as well as A forming step of forming the glass raw material in a molten state while the temperature of the glass raw material in a molten state is lowered.

45. The method for manufacturing glass according to claim 44, wherein: The glass manufacturing method includes a stopping step of stopping the heating of the glass raw material by the heating unit, and performing the forming step after the stopping step.

46. ​​The method for producing glass according to claim 44 or 45, wherein: In the forming step, the glass raw material in a molten state is formed at a temperature not less than the glass transition point of the glass and not less than the deformation point of the glass.

47. A method for manufacturing glass, comprising: manufacturing glass by lowering the temperature of glass raw material supported in a non-contact manner, the method comprising: a melting step of heating the glass raw material to melt the glass raw material; a cooling step of lowering the temperature of the glass raw material in a molten state to obtain the glass; a reheating step of heating the glass to melt the glass; and A forming step of forming the molten glass while the temperature of the molten glass is decreasing.

48. The method for manufacturing glass according to claim 47, wherein: In the forming step, the glass melt is formed at a temperature not less than the glass transition point and not more than the deformation point of the glass.

49. A method for manufacturing glass, comprising: manufacturing glass by lowering the temperature of glass raw material supported in a non-contact manner, the method comprising: A melting step of heating the glass raw material by a heating unit to melt the glass raw material; a heating control step of controlling the amount of heat applied to the glass raw material by the heating unit; and A forming step of forming the glass raw material in a molten state whose temperature has been changed by controlling the heating amount in the heating control step.

50. The method for manufacturing glass according to claim 49, wherein: In the forming step, the glass raw material in a molten state is formed by a forming part at a temperature not less than the glass transition point and not more than the deformation point of the glass.

51. A glass manufacturing device for manufacturing glass by cooling glass raw materials, the glass manufacturing device comprising: a supporting member for supporting the glass raw material in a molten state in a non-contact manner; and a stage to which the support member is fixed, The supporting member is detachable from the stage.

52. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 51, wherein: The supporting member is fixed to the stage by a threaded structure.

53. The glass manufacturing device according to claim 51 or 52, wherein: The glass manufacturing device further comprises: a second supporting member different from the first supporting member as the supporting member, the second supporting member supporting the glass raw material in a molten state in a non-contact manner; The second supporting member is fixed to the stage after the first supporting member is removed.

54. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 51 to 53, wherein: The glass manufacturing device comprises: a fixing member for fixing the supporting member to the stage, The stage supports the support member from below, The fixing member is arranged above the supporting member.

55. The glass manufacturing apparatus according to claim 54, wherein: The fixing member is made of stainless steel (SUS) or aluminum alloy.

56. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 51 to 55, wherein: The glass manufacturing device includes: a gas supply unit for supplying a gas for floating the glass raw material in a molten state; The supporting member has a jet port for jetting the gas supplied by the gas supply unit, and the supporting member supports the molten glass material in a non-contact manner by floating the molten glass material above the supporting member with the gas jetted from the jet port.

57. The glass manufacturing device according to any one of claims 51 to 56, wherein: The support member is made of stainless steel (SUS), aluminum alloy, silicon carbide (SiC) or brass.

58. A method for producing glass, comprising producing glass using the glass producing apparatus according to any one of claims 51 to 57.

Images