Aspherical optics are commonly used in advanced optical systems such as AR/VR headsets, surveillance systems and semiconductor applications to minimize size, weight and cost. Achieving the required level of quality requires control and management of the manufacturing environment in the machining and metrology of the optics.
For optics measurement, ZYGO relies on TMC vibration isolation systems. For its new Verifire™ Asphere+ advanced interferometer, ZYGO chose a TMC solution using a standard Gimbal Piston pneumatic isolator. The isolation system is designed and manufactured at our vertically integrated manufacturing facility in Peabody, Massachusetts.
The Verifire™ Asphere+ is a metrology instrument used to measure deviations from the design and surface shape of aspheric shaped optics. The system consists of a high-resolution fizeau interferometer for surface characterization and a linear measurement interferometer for precise tracking of the part position in the Z-axis. The combination of these interferometric technologies with a stable platform enables the Verifire Asphere+ system to provide accurate metrology in production - allowing the user to get rapid feedback without having to interrupt the production flow by moving to the metrology lab.
The Verifire Asphere+ vibration isolation system was custom designed by TMC for this application. To ensure stability, the system is designed with four feet to the floor. However, because the front of the system must be accessible for loading and unloading parts, the top of the isolation system has only three supports with isolators. This leaves the front section easily accessible. In addition, this design allows for a lower centre of gravity, which improves the effectiveness of vibration isolation.
The floating height of each pneumatic leg with isolator is controlled by a mechanical control valve. By designing the support structure to attach high on the machine, the Verifire Asphere+ system lowers the center of gravity, improving the stability and vibration isolation of the entire system.
Another key attribute of the vibration isolation platform is the use of castors and leveling feet. Although they may seem like small features, they are very useful in moving the system and providing stability. The castors can initially be deployed to move the system to the desired location without the need for a forklift. Once in the final position, the levelling feet are fitted to compensate for any unevenness in the floor. In doing so, the castors move upwards so that they no longer touch the floor. Many years of experience in installation and assembly have led TMC to optimise designs that facilitate ease of use.
Manufacturers of clip technology, such as ZYGO, are specialists in their field... ZYGO manufactures the world's best non-contact metrology systems. TMC manufactures the world's best vibration control systems with over 50 years of experience.
We are happy to advise you on designing a vibration isolation solution just for your equipment.
