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Subaperture testing of aspheres with annular zones
Applied Optics
|June 12, 2010
Summary
A new subaperture testing method for aspheric optics has been developed. This technique reduces fringe density by refocusing an interferometer on annular regions, simplifying analysis and potentially eliminating null lenses.
Area of Science:
- Optical engineering
- Metrology
Background:
- Testing aspheric optical components presents challenges due to complex surface shapes.
- Traditional methods often require specialized tooling like null lenses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel subaperture configuration for testing aspheric optical components and systems.
- To simplify the interferometric testing of aspheres, particularly at the center of curvature.
Main Methods:
- Dividing the optical component's aperture into annular subaperture regions.
- Refocusing an interferometer for each annular region to decrease fringe density.
- Utilizing phase-measuring interferometry and standard interferogram reduction software.
Main Results:
- The subaperture method effectively reduces fringe density for easier analysis.
- Theoretical basis, zone requirements, polynomial sensitivity, and tolerances were detailed.
- Numerical and experimental validations confirmed the algorithm's efficacy.
Conclusions:
- The developed subaperture configuration offers a viable alternative for aspheric testing.
- This method can potentially eliminate the need for null lenses in specific asphere measurements.
- The technique is compatible with existing phase-measuring interferometry and software.
