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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Optical-fabrication technology: the present and a crystal-ball view into the future. Paper No: 82-1853-CP

Conference ·
OSTI ID:6719286

Modern high technology optical surface manufacture makes use of one or more of four basic manufacturing technologies, loose abrasive grinding and polishing, single point diamond turning, multi-point (fixed-abrasive) machining, and position dependent material alteration. Each of these processes is described and a general comparison made with respect to achievable results, versatility and applicability to astrophysical, surveillance, and other advanced system applications. Such manufacturing technologies also offer a number of natural extensions which serve to provide, at least, a dim view down the development pathway. Such things as diamond turned visible light optics, single point machining of glass, precision fixed abrasive grinding, precise computer controlled polishing, and altered index materials are explored as offering exciting possibilities in the future.

Research Organization:
Lawrence Livermore National Lab., CA (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
OSTI ID:
6719286
Report Number(s):
UCRL-87682; CONF-821062-1; ON: DE83001177
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English