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To generate freeforms, it is crucial to have control over all aspects of the process. Controlling the surface definition is important for achieving a better surface finish during processing. Metrology will be required to adjust tool paths at various stages in manufacturing. During grinding, metrology will be used to adjust tool positions relative to the nominal tool path to compensate for repeatable machine and tooling error. For polishing, metrology will be used to deterministically adjust dwell relative to the amount of the error in different surface locations, allowing for convergence towards the desired surface at a uniform rate.
OptiPro has developed PROSurf, a CAM software package for creating freeform tool paths and applying metrology-based corrections. The software can be used for both grinding and polishing freeform optics. The software has flexibility to allow for different methods of modelling the surface: mathematical equations, solid models, and point clouds. The software is designed to make it easier to manufacture and polish complex freeform optics.
Over the last several years, OptiPro Systems has developed and optimized our eSX grinding, UFF and USF polishing, UltraSurf metrology, and ProSurf software programming technologies to make the processing of these complex geometries much easier and deterministic. In this paper we will discuss the challenges associated with manufacturing complex shapes like aspheric cylinders as well as freeform geometries, and how several technologies working together can overcome them. The technologies focus on metrology feedback to a grinding and polishing machine that is controlled through an iterative computer aided manufacturing software system. We will also present examples of these hard to manufacture shapes with results.
Future optical systems are moving away from traditional spherical optics. The anticipated benefits are numerous for freeform optics as they provide better aerodynamic characteristics for aircraft, lighter weight for space missions, and smaller size for medical procedures.
Currently the design and utilization of conformal and freeform shapes are costly due to the difficulties introduced with fabrication and metrology of these parts. Techniques for creating these complex optical surfaces are still in development for traditional optical materials. OptiPro has a unique opportunity create manufacturing solutions through computer controlled multi-axis optical generating, polishing, and metrology machines. OptiPro Systems is continuing to develop advanced optical manufacturing technologies. OptiPro has made toric and freeform arch shapes. OptiPro’s existing manufacturing platforms include its eSX grinding, UltraForm Finishing, and UltraSurf non-contact surface scanning system, which will be used for grinding, polishing, and measuring conformal and freeform shapes.
Freeform surfaces are initially generated using deterministic micro-grinding with diamond bonded tools. Tool paths with up to five axes of simultaneous motion are required to generate and polish the optical figure of conformal surfaces. Sub-aperture corrective polishing will need to vary the amount of time the tool contacts at each location in order to remove the proper amount of material. These locations and dwell times are derived from a surface figure error map provided by OptiPro’s UltraSurf. Research and development of the freeform manufacturing process will be presented.
The primary focus of the course is to explain the methodology of measuring precision freeform and conformal optics. The goal of the course is to provide a basic understanding of current industrial techniques for freeform metrology. Special consideration is given to datum and fiducial structures, along with associated International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards. The course will consist of classroom lecture, followed by application of concepts at OptiPro’s booth in the exhibition hall.
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