1 June 1986 Computer-Controlled Optical Surfacing With Orbital Tool Motion
Robert A. Jones
Author Affiliations +
Abstract
Off-axis aspheric optical elements cannot be fabricated using classical techniques. Itek has developed computer-controlled optical surfacing (CCOS) for fabricating aspheric optics. The process slowly moves a polishing or grinding tool assembly (with rapid tool motion) over the workpiece surface. The use of CCOS with orbital tool motion has been put on a scientific basis. Theoretical and experimental removal profiles have been obtained and used. A tool selection process has been developed to provide efficient CCOS error correction. The movement of the tool assembly along a path following the workpiece surface height contours has produced better smoothing and figure error correction. Computer simulations have aided process optimization and predicted excellent results for the use of orbital CCOS polishing. A recent fabrication effort has demonstrated the ability of the process to fabricate an optical element with both a smooth surface and good figure.
Robert A. Jones "Computer-Controlled Optical Surfacing With Orbital Tool Motion," Optical Engineering 25(6), 256785 (1 June 1986). https://doi.org/10.1117/12.7973906
Published: 1 June 1986
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CITATIONS
Cited by 97 scholarly publications and 2 patents.
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KEYWORDS
Surface finishing

Diamond turning

Optical components

Polishing

Aspheric lenses

Aspheric optics

Computer simulations

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