Abstract

Computer Design of Surfaces from Desired Image Output and Source Position and Size. The Programs Calculate the Surface Topography to Direct Input Rays to Required Output Positions. Rays are Presented on Screen and Calculated Data on Printer. When Design is Approved Program Directs Data to New Computer Controlled Milling Machine Using Diamond Tools. Different Programs Allow Computer To Figure Surface or Use Fixed Surface and Show Variable Image from Variable Source Position. Applications Include Rear View Mirrors and Headlights for Automobiles, Heads-up Displays and Streetlights. Surfaces Need Not BE Surfaces of Revolution or Any Conventional Surface. Fabrication Machine Has 5 Axes and Can Hold Cutting Tool at Normal to Surface at All Times. The Directly Connected Machine is Addressable to Around 4×10-6 Inches and Has a Cutting Volume of 10 x 10 x 5 Inches. A Large Range of Materials Can Be Utilized Including Those For Glass Replication and Molding i.e. Production Molds for Large Volume Low Cost Items . A More Advanced Machine Under Construction Will Have Work Space of 48 x 24 x 24 Inches and Metrology to Values of Better than 2 X 10-6 Inches in the X, Y and Z Axes. Surface is Around 35 A. RMS and Contour to 1 Wave at 6328 A.

© 1987 Optical Society of America