Fabrication of Corrective Optics for Aerodynamic Domes

Conformal Corrective Optics are required for Freeform optics allow for greater versatility in optical design that will give the designer the ability to decrease the number of optics in an assembly lowering the amount of mass and volume required to attain the same optical properties. Currently the design and fabrication of freeform optics are costly due to the difficulties introduced with mainly the fabrication and metrology of these parts. By giving the designer realistic constraints as to what can be fabricated along with continued improvements in fabrication methods, large improvements can be gained in the properties of optical assemblies mainly due to the mass and volume advantages that are provided by the use of freeform optics. OptiPro has a unique opportunity for combining its newly developed solution for the Navy"s ogive SBIR metrology program, to its extensive knowledge of CAD/CAM and,"freeform capable"computer numerically controlled precision optical grinding and polishing products. OptiPro"s technologically advanced optical manufacturing capabilities along with a"support partnership"with the Penn State University Electro Optics Center and the University of Rochester Laboratory for Laser Energetics, gives us a very strong team and, clear path towards solving the difficult problems associated with, grinding and finishing of Conformal optics.