Nanotech™ 500FG

The new microgrinder, named the Nanotech™ 500FG by Nanotechnology Systems, will provide the optics industry with next-generation conformal optics manufacturing capability. The computer numerically controlled, multi-axis, ultra- precision machining system is capable of generating arbitrary conformal optical surface (including non-spherical and non-axisymmetric) shapes within a 250 mm x 250 mm x 300 mm machining envelope. The Nanotech™ 500FG will be the flagship of Nanotechnology Systems’ ultra-precision machining systems.

The new microgrinder, named the Nanotech™ 500FG by Nanotechnology Systems, will provide the optics industry with next-generation conformal optics manufacturing capability. The computer numerically controlled, multi-axis, ultra- precision machining system is capable of generating arbitrary conformal optical surface (including non-spherical and non-axisymmetric) shapes within a 250 mm x 250 mm x 300 mm machining envelope. The Nanotech™ 500FG will be the flagship of Nanotechnology Systems’ ultra-precision machining systems.

As an added benefit (should the remote possibility arise), the grinding head can be swapped out for a single point diamond turning post that can be mounted in its place. In addition to its multi-axis grinding and diamond turning capability, the machining system has the ability to true freeform raster grind far off-axis segments, thus negating the need to attempt unrealistically large swings. The Nanotech™ 500FG incorporates a host of novel design features and has unprecedented optics manufacturing versatility. These machine design features, combined with advanced control and feedback systems, will produce optical surfaces that typically require little or no post-polishing.

The development of a cost effective machining system that produces freeform optical shapes will add a significant dimension to the industry’s manufacturing capability. DARPA, working with the DoD prime contractors (Raytheon and Boeing) involved in this program, has already identified several candidate military systems that stand to benefit from this enabling technology. Conformal optical shapes include both axisymmetric and non-axisymmetric optical components and may have a combination of aspherical, spherical, cylindrical, conical, diffractive, plano, or ogive shapes, in materials ranging from optical glass and infrared materials, to non-ferrous metals, crystals, polymers and ceramics.

While COM has spearheaded the Nanotech™ 500FG development initiative, the real credit for the success of the program belongs to the CDMG Manufacturing Advisory Board (Eastman Kodak, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon TI Systems, II-VI) and Moore Nanotechnology Systems for their invaluable technical support, and to DARPA for the funding support that is making the program possible.

The Nanotech™ 500FG will be commissioned at COM in July, 1999. For information on the conformal optics program, or other COM activities, please contact Jeff Ruckman or Harvey Pollicove at 716-275-1093. For information on the Nanotech™ 500FG, contact Moore Nanotechnology Systems at 603-352-3030.