Propagation of angular errors in two-axis rotation systems

Geoffrey K. Torrington

doi:10.1117/12.505757

27 October 2003 Propagation of angular errors in two-axis rotation systems

Geoffrey K. Torrington

Proceedings Volume 5176, Optomechanics 2003; (2003) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.505757
Event: Optical Science and Technology, SPIE's 48th Annual Meeting, 2003, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

Two-Axis Rotation Systems, or “goniometers,” are used in diverse applications including telescope pointing, automotive headlamp testing, and display testing. There are three basic configurations in which a goniometer can be built depending on the orientation and order of the stages. Each configuration has a governing set of equations which convert motion between the system “native” coordinates to other base systems, such as direction cosines, optical field angles, or spherical-polar coordinates. In their simplest form, these equations neglect errors present in real systems. In this paper, a statistical treatment of error source propagation is developed which uses only tolerance data, such as can be obtained from the system mechanical drawings prior to fabrication. It is shown that certain error sources are fully correctable, partially correctable, or uncorrectable, depending upon the goniometer configuration and zeroing technique. The system error budget can be described by a root-sum-of-squares technique with weighting factors describing the sensitivity of each error source. This paper tabulates weighting factors at 67% (k=1) and 95% (k=2) confidence for various levels of maximum travel for each goniometer configuration. As a practical example, this paper works through an error budget used for the procurement of a system at Sandia National Laboratories.

Citation Download Citation

Geoffrey K. Torrington "Propagation of angular errors in two-axis rotation systems", Proc. SPIE 5176, Optomechanics 2003, (27 October 2003); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.505757

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