Freefrom and Conformal Optics Manufacturing and Metrology
Speaker: Edward Fess, OptiPro Systems
Much like the “asphere revolution” that began nearly 15-20 years ago, we are on the cusp of another revolution in the optics industry with the utilization of freeform and conformal optical systems. These complex optical shapes have the potential to provide better aerodynamic characteristics for aircraft, lighter weight systems for space missions, smaller and more compact medical devices, as well as more optimized illumination systems just to name a few. However, the manufacturing and metrology of these types of optical components remains challenging. This presentation will focus on the development of the computer numerically controlled (CNC) processes that are being created to solve these manufacturing challenges as well as flexible metrology systems that can be used to characterize their optical quality.
Ed is the Research and Development and Software Development manager at OptiPro Systems. Ed holds an A.A.S in Optical Technology from Monroe Community College, and a B.S. in Liberal Arts and Science with concentrations in Manufacturing Engineering and Optics from the Rochester Institute of Technology. He spent over 15 years at the University of Rochester’s Center for Optics Manufacturing (COM), where he worked on developing the Deterministic MicroGrinding (DMG) machines and processes as well as sub-aperture polishing technologies that emerged from COM. Ed has been at OptiPro System for the past 5 years, and continues to develop new optical manufacturing solutions for next generation optical components. Over his career, Ed has authored or coauthored many published works on precision optical manufacturing technologies and techniques. He also teaches OPT-235, Advanced Optical Processing, at Monroe Community College for the Optical Technology program.
