Fabrication of Optical Elements by Means of a Low Energy Ion Beam,
Abstract
A sophisticated new optical manufacturing process is described which represents the first significant departure from optical figuring techniques developed in antiquity. The process removes material from solid surfaces on the atomic level process removes material from solid surfaces on the atomic level and is capable of figuring large diameter optics to well within 1/50 of the wavelength of visible light. The process is numerically controlled and off axis and aspheric surfaces may be figured as easily as spheres and flats. The system greatly increases the freedom of the optical designer in specifying surface contours and significantly reduces requirements for skilled optical craftsmen. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1972
- Accession Number
- AD0750347
Entities
People
- James D. Lester
Organizations
- Frankford Arsenal