3-D Process Improves Diffractive Optics Form Accuracy

Precitech Inc. and Taylor Hobson have developed a process to measure, analyze and correct for diffractive form errors in three dimensions, Precitech has announced.

Historically, it has not been possible to measure diffractive optical surfaces and correct for symmetric and asymmetric errors inherent in the turning process. The large diffractive zones make it difficult to measure shape.

The new process uses Taylor Hobson’s PGI 3-D with advanced aspherics analysis software, along with its CCI optical profiler, and Precitech’s NanoForm 250Ultra with a rotary B axis and a fast tool servo.

Precitech provides ultraprecision single-point and multiaxis diamond turning machines for rotationally symmetric and free-form applications in nonferrous, ferrous and high-performance metals.

The companies will present their work at the American Society of Precision Engineering’s annual meeting Nov. 13-18 in Denver.

For more information, visit: www.precitech.com