High Speed Volumetric Metrology

Using optical tools such a laser interferometers, the Multiple Degree of Freedom Measurement(MDFM) System developed by the University of Michigan under the ManTech program has demonstrated a high precision calibration capability for Coordinate Measurement Machines (CMMs). Building on that effort and combining it with Visidyne's 3D volumetric or global measurement concept, we propose to demonstrate a MDFM design with equivalent performance but with reduced complexity, a greater degree of robustness and flexibility, and with a reduced capital cost since the system can be built from inexpensive components. The overall design closely resembles the immensely successful Global Positioning System, but instead of microwave beams uses intensity modulated optical beams at high >5 GHz microwave frequencies to provide 3D positional information. A significant factor contributing to the lower cost is the availability of hardware and software technologies already developed for microwave and optical through-the-air and guided communications networks. Examples of such products include Personal Communication Systems (Pacs's), fiber optical local area networks (LAN's), and the aforementioned GAPS receivers.