Abstract: A plurality of optical elements can be manufactured by replication. A replication tool includes a plurality of replication sections. Each replication section defines a negative structural feature that defines the shape of a respective optical element. A plurality of individual portions of a replication material are applied a substrate and/or the replication tool. Each individual portion is associated with a respective negative structural feature. The replication tool is moved relative to the substrate to shape the plurality of individual portions of the replication material. Each individual portion of the replication material is discrete and shaped according to the respective replication section. The replication material is hardened to form the plurality of optical elements. Each optical element is discrete, optically transparent, and attached to the substrate.

Abstract: An optical element is manufactured using a replication tool comprising a negative structural feature defined in a replication side of the replication tool, and a peripheral feature formed in the replication side of the replication tool adjacent the negative structural feature. The negative structural feature defines the shape of the optical element. A replication material is disposed between a substrate and the replication tool, which are moved toward each other. The peripheral feature confines the replication material to a predetermined area of the substrate. The replication material can be hardened to form the optical element from the replication material attached to the substrate.

Abstract: A plurality of optical elements can be manufactured by replication. A replication tool can include a plurality of replication sections having negative structural features that define the shape of the plurality of optical elements and at least one first spacer portion. A replication material can be disposed between a substrate and the replication tool. The replication tool and the substrate can be moved so that a substantially flat surface portion of each first spacer portion rests against a layer of replication material remaining between the at least one first spacer portion and the substrate. The layer of replication material keeps the at least one first spacer portion spaced from the substrate. The replication material can be hardened to form the plurality of optical elements.