Abstract: A method for aligning and assembling two lens pieces, and a machine to accomplish this task are provided. In one example of the method, the method includes holding an upper lens above a lower lens, holding the lower lens in a horizontal position, lowering the upper lens into a contact position with the lower lens, and allowing the upper lens to self-align to a top surface of the lower lens.

Abstract: A method for aligning the upper and lower centering bells of a lens doublet assembly machine is provided. In one example of the method, the method includes positioning an alignment tool with respect to a base plate of the lens doublet aligning apparatus; positioning an upper bell shaft with respect to the alignment tool, wherein the upper bell shaft includes an upper bell chuck at a lower end of the upper bell shaft; and tightening flexural bearings around an outer radial edge of the upper bell shaft, wherein the flexural bearings precisely hold the upper bell shaft into perpendicular alignment in the lens doublet aligning apparatus.

Abstract: A method for aligning the upper and lower centering bells of a lens doublet assembly machine is provided. In one example of the method, the method includes positioning an alignment tool with respect to a base plate of the lens doublet aligning apparatus; positioning an upper bell shaft with respect to the alignment tool, wherein the upper bell shaft includes an upper bell chuck at a lower end of the upper bell shaft; and tightening flexural bearings around an outer radial edge of the upper bell shaft, wherein the flexural bearings precisely hold the upper bell shaft into perpendicular alignment in the lens doublet aligning apparatus.

Abstract: A method for aligning and assembling two lens pieces, and a machine to accomplish this task are provided. In one example of the method, the method includes holding an upper lens above a lower lens, holding the lower lens in a horizontal position, lowering the upper lens into a contact position with the lower lens, and allowing the upper lens to self-align to a top surface of the lower lens.

Abstract: The use of flexures in the form of flat spiral springs cut from sheet metal materials provides support for coaxial nonrotating linear reciprocating members in power conversion machinery, such as Stirling cycle engines or heat pumps. They permit operation with little or no rubbing contact or other wear mechanisms. The relatively movable members include one member having a hollow interior structure within which the flexures are located. The flexures permit limited axial movement between the interconnected members, but prevent adverse rotational movement and radial displacement from their desired coaxial positions.