Multi-step Universal Optical Component Tray

Abstract

Optical components such as lens elements require progressively better protection during their processing to prevent chipping, rubbing, or other damage. Shallow trays with foam or paper lining and cardboard separators are commonly used, but as optical surfaces are polished and coated, the parts become very delicate and can easily be damaged as they slide, particularly on their convex surfaces, on flat tray bottoms. Polished and/or coated optical components are often individually wrapped in tissue paper and/or sealed in bags for protection between final process/inspection steps, but wrapping, unwrapping, re-wrapping, etc. are very time-consuming and costly, and the parts can be easily dropped and damaged.