Inspection and Testing of Surface Shape and Figure

doi:10.1117/3.2237066.ch13

Book: Optics Inspections and Tests: A Guide for Optics Inspectors and Designers

Author(s): Michael Hausner

Published: 2017

https://doi.org/10.1117/3.2237066.ch13

Abstract

There are essentially five major surface shapes for optical applications: flat, spherical, cylindrical, aspherical, and diffractive. Each of the surfaces is defined by parameters necessary for its functionality. Deviation in some surface parameters may cause deviation in the wavefront passing through the element (lens, window, or filter) or impinging on the optical surface (mirror), followed by the deviation or failure of the optical assembly.