Development of Freeform, Aspheric optics

Freeform surfaces in optical systems provide extra levels of design flexibility that can be used to minimise the size, weight, and/or performance of an optical system while retaining a comparable footprint. Applications range from off-axis mirrors for astronomical purposes to long-wave infrared cameras (LWIR), head-mounted displays, and ophthalmology. A complete development process including design, fabrication with 5-axis ultra precision machining, and testing methodologies of aspheric and freeform optics have been explored.