Search
Menu
CASTECH INC - New Building the Bridge of Light

Tech Transfer Streamlines Implementation of Asphere Standards

Facebook X LinkedIn Email
The Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB, the National Metrology Institute of Germany) reported that it has developed standards for aspheric optics. The standards are intended to improve the calibration of aspheric and freeform surface measuring devices.

Aspheres are optics whose shape deviates significantly from the spherical shape. They are essential components of many modern imaging systems. In contrast to spherical optics, aspheres' traceable measurement, with uncertainties in the range of a few tens of nanometers, represents a major challenge. Tactile measuring methods, such as microcoordinate measuring machines (µCMM) and optical measuring methods, are currently used to measure aspheres and freeform surfaces. 

The newly introduced asphere standards’ shape properties can be traced back using established measuring technology, such as μCMMs.
The first of multiple standards for the meausrement of aspheric optics to be market-ready is a multi-radius test body, shown via and exaggerated representation. Courtesy of PTB.

An exaggerated representation of a multiradius test body, the first of multiple market-ready standards recently introduced by Germany’s Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt. Courtesy of PTB.


The first of these standards, a patented multiradius test body, is expected to be commercially available in spring. It combines spherical segments of various radii. The radii of the individual spherical sections, and the small but unavoidable deviations from the perfect spherical shape (sphericity), can be measured, for example, by using Fizeau interferometers. The shape properties that are determined in this way then serve as a reference for devices that measure nonspherical optical surfaces.

A company that is active in the field of ultraprecision technology — a producer of metal optics, among other products — has secured the technology transfer for the production of the asphere standards, becoming the licensee, according to PTB. 

The development of the standards is the result of two research projects funded by the European Association of National Metrology Institutes. 
Rocky Mountain Instruments - Laser Optics MR

Published: March 2022
Glossary
metrology
Metrology is the science and practice of measurement. It encompasses the theoretical and practical aspects of measurement, including the development of measurement standards, techniques, and instruments, as well as the application of measurement principles in various fields. The primary objectives of metrology are to ensure accuracy, reliability, and consistency in measurements and to establish traceability to recognized standards. Metrology plays a crucial role in science, industry,...
lens
A lens is a transparent optical device that focuses or diverges light, allowing it to pass through and form an image. Lenses are commonly used in optical systems, such as cameras, telescopes, microscopes, eyeglasses, and other vision-correcting devices. They are typically made of glass or other transparent materials with specific optical properties. There are two primary types of lenses: Convex lens (converging lens): This type of lens is thicker at the center than at the edges. Convex...
BusinessmetrologyOpticsasphereFreeformlenslensesmanufacturingindustrialEuropePTBPhysikalisch-Technische BundesanstaltstandardstandardsstandardizationIndustry News

We use cookies to improve user experience and analyze our website traffic as stated in our Privacy Policy. By using this website, you agree to the use of cookies unless you have disabled them.