What's it about?

This paper briefly tells the story of the importance of metrology in optics fabrication at Optimax, and highlights Wyko and Jim Wyant’s contribution to early Optimax success.

1. EARLY OPTIMAX

Optimax¹ was founded in 1991 on the premise of utilizing Computer-Numerically-Controlled (CNC) machining for precision optics. This innovation enabled delivery times for custom optical components to be reduced from 16 weeks to 1 week. Founded with the commitment to use advanced manufacturing technology, the third OptiCam² machine OptiPro Systems³ (CNC Systems in 1991) was installed at Optimax. At the time, Optimax relied on test plates for power and surface figure testing. This lack of metrology regularly limited what was required for verification in those early days...