Ultra-precision machining of optics

Ultra-precision machining (UPM) is a key technology in the manufacture of optical components with high accuracy and surface finish. This technology has enabled the production of a wide range of optical components, including lenses, mirrors, prisms, and gratings, which are essential components in various optical systems. UPM is based on a combination of high-precision machine tools, advanced metrology systems, and a thorough understanding of the physics of the machining process. Currently, UPM typically including ultra-precision diamond turning, ultra-precision diamond milling, ultra-precision diamond chiseling, ultra-precision grinding and polishing are popular for fabrication of these high precise components. The fabricated components have achieved wide spread applications in various fields of technology, industrial and engineering fields. This chapter provides an overview of the application of UPM in optics, including symmetrical, structured, and non-symmetrical surfaces, also a brief review on current state-of-the-art in the fabrication techniques. The study also focused on the typical advanced applications in the different fields that include symmetrical surface applications like ophthalmic lenses, molds for plastic lens, IR & X-ray optics. Structured surface applications include space & defense, energy and bio-medical. Non-symmetrical surface imaging applications like head mounted display, astronomy, IR imaging and projection system; non-imaging applications like beam shaping, uniform illumination and energy concentration. This study further provides new insights for future research and advanced applications. Overall, UPM is a promising technology that has the potential to revolutionize the manufacture of high-precision optical components and improve the performance of various optical systems.