Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

More than ever, the design and fabrication of novel optical components is fuelling the development of biomedical imaging technologies. Through a CFI Leader grant, we recently acquired a unique tool: an ultra-precision machine tool enabling the fabrication of specialized optical components dedicated to biomedical optics. This instrument can diamond-turn, grind or mill any optical material in any shape with optical grade surface finish. The last step towards integration of these custom parts into medical instruments consists in precisely characterizing the final form of the optical part with respect to the programmed one. This factor determines that the component will work as desired and will not add aberration to the wavefront. We are thus requesting through this proposal a metrology tool capable of measuring form accuracy for optical components to complete our rapid prototyping platform. In addition to the validation of the component we produce, this metrology tool will help use to improve our machining process. By accurately measuring our parts we will be able to fine tune the machining variables and correct for systematic form errors. Finally, by improving the yield and quality of the lens and mirrors we need for medical imaging we will also be able to answer the needs of our industrial partners. Indeed, we want to produce state of the art optical components that will help Canadian researcher and companies creating breakthrough technologies. By funding this proposal, Canada will also create a unique optical component manufacturing facility as in combination with the other laboratories at École Polytechnique - such as the Thin Film Laboratory (for optical coatings) and the Optical Fibre Laboratory - we will be able to create every optical system possible.