Uniform polishing of convex aspheres with an elastic lap.
An unconventional approach to the uniform polishing of convex glass aspheres is described that uses an elastic lapping tool. It is assumed that the asphere has been previously ground to the correct shape and that it is desired to remove the grind marks by uniform polishing. Uniform polishing is achieved by balancing pressure and relative lapping speed effects between the lap and optic. The theory necessary to predict optimal polishing machine settings is presented. Experimental data are given demonstrating uniform sphere polishing to one wave using predicted machine settings without operator intervention.
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Paxton