Receiver Lens: Diameter 5-25 mm, Focal Length 10-50 mm

Q: What is the primary function of a receiver lens in an optical positioning sensor?

To collect and focus incoming light signals onto a photodetector, enabling accurate measurement of position, distance, or alignment by optimizing signal strength and minimizing optical errors.

Q: How do material choices affect receiver lens performance?

Glass lenses offer superior optical clarity and thermal stability, while polymer lenses are lighter and cost-effective; coatings enhance transmission and reduce reflections for specific wavelength ranges.

Q: What industries commonly use receiver lenses in optical sensors?

Manufacturing, robotics, semiconductor production, automotive assembly, and precision engineering, where high-accuracy positioning and alignment are critical.

Component Specifications

Definition

A receiver lens is a critical optical component in optical positioning sensors that captures incoming light signals (typically from a laser or LED source) and focuses them onto a photodetector or sensor array. It optimizes light collection efficiency, minimizes aberrations, and ensures precise signal detection for applications requiring high-accuracy position tracking, distance measurement, or alignment in industrial automation and manufacturing systems.

Working Principle

Operates on the principles of geometric optics, using precisely curved surfaces (spherical or aspherical) to refract and converge incoming light rays onto a focal point. The lens material and coating are engineered to maximize transmission of specific wavelengths while reducing reflections, scattering, and optical distortions, enabling the sensor to detect minute variations in light intensity or position for precise measurements.

Materials

Optical-grade glass (e.g., BK7, fused silica) or engineered polymers (e.g., PMMA, polycarbonate) with anti-reflective coatings (e.g., MgF2, multilayer dielectric) for wavelengths typically in visible to near-infrared ranges (400-1100 nm).

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Coating	Broadband AR coating (400-700 nm or 700-1100 nm)
Diameter	5-25 mm
Focal Length	10-50 mm
Surface Quality	Scratch-dig 40-20 per MIL-PRF-13830B
Numerical Aperture	0.2-0.6
Operating Temperature	-20°C to +80°C
Transmission Efficiency	>95% at specified wavelength

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

ISO 10110, ISO 14999, DIN 3140

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Optical Positioning Sensor

A non-contact sensor that uses optical technology to detect and measure the precise position of objects within a machine's working area.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Contamination from dust or oils reducing transmission
Mechanical damage from mishandling or impact
Thermal expansion affecting focal properties
Coating degradation under UV exposure or harsh chemicals

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Improper cleaning or exposure to contaminants
Failure: Reduced light transmission leading to sensor inaccuracy or signal loss
Mitigation: Use lint-free wipes and approved solvents; implement protective housings or covers in dusty environments

Trigger: Thermal cycling beyond specified range
Failure: Lens deformation or coating delamination, causing focal shift or increased aberrations
Mitigation: Select materials with low thermal expansion coefficients; design sensors with temperature compensation or cooling systems

Trigger: Misalignment during installation
Failure: Off-axis focusing, resulting in poor signal detection and measurement errors
Mitigation: Use precision mounting fixtures; follow alignment protocols with optical alignment tools

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Optical positioning sensors, laser triangulation sensors, photoelectric sensors, alignment systems in CNC machines and robotic arms

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Edmund Optics, Thorlabs, Newport, Sill Optics, Jenoptik

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

Focal length tolerance ±1%, centering error <0.05 mm, surface figure λ/4 at 632.8 nm

Test Method

Interferometry for surface accuracy, spectrophotometry for transmission/reflection, environmental testing per IEC 60068-2

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

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Manufacturers of Receiver Lens

Manufacturer profiles associated with Receiver Lens.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a receiver lens in an optical positioning sensor?