Computer Controlled Small Tool Polishing

Abstract

In 1991 an existing 2.5 meter gantry polishing machine was modified to provide the necessary motions and control for Computer Controlled Small Tool Polishing (CCSTP). Five axes of Computer Numerical Control motion are used to correctly position the polishing tool on the optical surface with a maximum slope of 30 degrees. Combined with a 2-axis polishing spindle, Eastman Kodak has integrated 7-axis of motion to increase the flexibility of its polishing process. The 2-axis polishing spindle provides controlled pad pointing and a high speed orbital motion. The capabilities of the machine and some actual optical figuring results from the CCSTP process will be discussed.