Precision copying machine for variable-curvature surfaces

A high-precision dual-purpose (grinding/turning) copying machine has been designed. It is capable of producing products in the sub-micron range with a varying Δ R (θ) relationship (aspheric). Special features of the ‘Optocop’ are the combined application of hydrostatic and aerostatic bearings coupled to an accurate template-controlled copying system. A computational method has been used to obtain the corrected input data for the numerically-controlled milling of the circumference of the template to the required shape.