A visible light dome is a precision dome-shaped optical component designed to transmit visible wavelengths efficiently while providing mechanical protection, aerodynamic performance, and environmental resistance. Unlike flat optical windows, dome optics offer uniform optical performance over wide incident angles, making them ideal for systems requiring panoramic viewing, pressure resistance, or minimized optical distortion.
Visible light domes manufactured by Shape Optics are engineered for high transmission, excellent surface quality, and tight dimensional tolerances, ensuring stable optical performance in demanding environments.
Functions of Visible Light Domes
Visible light optical domes serve several critical functions:
- High Transmission Protection – Protect internal sensors or optics while maintaining excellent visible light transmission
- Wide-Angle Optical Performance – Minimize refraction distortion over large viewing angles
- Structural Strength – Dome geometry enhances mechanical strength and pressure resistance
- Environmental Isolation – Shield optical systems from dust, moisture, wind, and impact
- Optical Stability – Maintain image quality under dynamic or harsh operating conditions
Applications of Visible Light Domes
- Architectural skylights and daylighting
- Automotive sunroofs and observation windows
- Optical and scientific instruments
- Imaging and sensor protection
- Photography and film lighting
- Greenhouses and horticulture
Visible Light Dome Specifications
Materials
- K9 (BK7 equivalent optical glass)
- Quartz (Fused Silica)
- Sapphire
Dimensional Capabilities
- Diameter Range: 20 mm – 200 mm
- Outside Diameter Tolerance: ±0.02 mm to ±0.10 mm
- Center Thickness Tolerance: ±0.03 mm to ±0.10 mm
- Total Height Tolerance: ±0.02 mm to ±0.05 mm
- Concave Sag Tolerance: ±0.02 mm to ±0.05 mm
Optical Quality
- Surface Quality: 60/40, 40/20, 20/10
- Surface Roughness: Ra ≤ 0.04 μm
- Surface Accuracy: PV λ/2, λ/4
- ETV (Edge Thickness Variation): ≤ 5′
Transmittance
- AR Coating ≥ 97%
- DLC + AR Coating ≥ 90%
Customization
- Fully custom-designed domes based on drawings or application requirements
- Optional anti-reflection (AR), DLC, or specialty coatings
Manufacturing Advantages
- Precision CNC grinding and polishing
- Advanced interferometric inspection
- High-uniformity optical coatings
- Strict quality control for geometry and transmission
- Prototype to volume production support