Freeform grinding and polishing with PROSurf

Franciscus Wolfs; Edward Fess; Scott DeFisher; Josh Torres; James Ross

doi:10.1117/12.2195899

11 October 2015 Freeform grinding and polishing with PROSurf

Franciscus Wolfs, Edward Fess, Scott DeFisher, Josh Torres, James Ross

Proceedings Volume 9633, Optifab 2015; 96331G (2015) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2195899
Event: SPIE Optifab, 2015, Rochester, New York, United States

Abstract

Recently, the desire to use freeform optics has been increasing, including shapes such as torics and anamorphic aspheres. Freeform optics can be used to expand capabilities of optical systems. They can compensate for limitations in rotationally symmetric optics. These same traits that give freeform optics the ability to improve optical systems also makes them more challenging to manufacture. This holds true for grinding, polishing, and metrology. As freeform optics become more prevalent in the industry, tolerances will become more stringent, requiring deterministic manufacturing processes.

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.

Citation Download Citation

Franciscus Wolfs, Edward Fess, Scott DeFisher, Josh Torres, and James Ross "Freeform grinding and polishing with PROSurf", Proc. SPIE 9633, Optifab 2015, 96331G (11 October 2015); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2195899

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