Metrology of Visibly Opaque, Infrared-Transparent Aerodynamic Domes, Conformal Windows, and Optical Corrector Elements

The challenging material requirements, large sizes, and complex geometries for current and future advanced military optical systems are creating numerous manufacturing challenges. These include the methods to fixture the components, advancements in grinding and polishing machines, processing techniques, and methods for measuring them to their demanding optical tolerances. Our goal in this Phase I effort would be to develop a metrology solution that is capable to accurately measure both the surface irregularity and transmitted wavefront of these visibly opaque, infrared-transparent aerodynamic domes, conformal windows, and optical corrector elements. OptiPro will evaluate software, algorithms, and hardware enhancements that would super charge its existing UltraSurf 5 axis non-contact measuring machine thus improving the performance and precision of the measurement system to meet these more difficult demands. The Phase I effort will focus primarily on two main areas: identify opportunities for improved performance and accuracy, as well as refinement / enhancement of usability and analytical tools. We believe that this path forward will lead to a metrology system in Phase II that could demonstrate a more cost effective production of aerodynamic domes. The Phase III commercialization plan would be to demonstrate and offer this unit for sale as a product by OptiPro.