Abstract

Itek has developed computer-controlled optical surfacing (CCOS) for fabricating aspheric optical surfaces. The smoothing process plays a key role in all CCOS operations. A computer simulation algorithm was created to provide information on the CCOS smoothing process. The reliability of the algorithm was confirmed with several verification cases. The effect of pertinent tool, lap and error parameters on smoothing was determined from a series of simulations. Also, the smoothing algorithm was applied to an operational case to provide real world credibility. The smoothing simulation algorithm appears accurate and useful. The parametric study results are available and the algorithm can be applied to specific cases for guidance in proper CCOS parameter selection.

© 1994 Optical Society of America