Rapid and Precise Metrology for Advanced Optical Components Navy SBIR FY2013.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2013.2 Topic No.: N132-121 Topic Title: Rapid and Precise Metrology for Advanced Optical Components Proposal No.: N132-121-1121 Firm: Bridger Photonics, Inc 2310 University Way, Bldg 4-4 Bozeman, Montana 59715 Contact: Randy Reibel Phone: (406) 585-2774 Web Site: www.bridgerphotonics.com Abstract: Under this proposed SBIR effort, Bridger Photonics, Inc. (Bridger) will advance its industry-leading length metrology capabilities to reach sub-10-nanometer precision, >40 Hz update rate, >10 cm measurement range, and sufficient sensitivity to enable measurement of high reflection angles (> 5 degrees) on ceramic materials with bulk scattering. Bridger will integrate this metrology system with OptiPro System's UltraSurf precision stage to enable an order of magnitude improvement in both the manufacturing time and precision compared to existing solutions. This capability will directly lead to increased manufacturing throughput and decreased manufacturing cost. To accomplish these goals the team proposes three technical objectives for the Phase I effort. First, performance enhancements for measuring advanced IR materials will be conducted. Second, Bridger will provide hardware enhancements to allow for faster measurement rates. Bridger will utilize an in-house prototype SLM-M metrology system for testing these proposed enhancements on OptiPro's UltraSurf system with components provided by the sponsor. Finally, from the lessons learned during this testing, the team will determine the feasibility for incorporating these performance enhancements. During a possible Phase I Option, Bridger will refine the mechanical, electrical and optical design for its SLM-M system in order to incorporate these performance enhancements into future systems. Benefits: Results from Bridger's Phase I work will prove feasibility for the Navy's required measurement speed, precision, and sensitivity in order to improve the time and cost of manufacturing advanced IR-transmitting domes, corrective plates and conformal windows. In addition, Bridger will have fully proven the critical techniques for enabling continuous motion during high-speed measurement scans. They will also have demonstrated the techniques for measuring samples with bulk scattering and high-angle reflections. These improvements are not only desired by the Navy but across the optical industry as more complex parts, conformal optics and free-form optical shapes are brought to the market. Currently there is a significant lack of metrology tools necessary on the market to provide rapid parts inspection for determining surface tolerances, part thickness and quality control. Bridger anticipates working with commercial partners to establish the technique for highly accurate optical parts inspection applications across the optical manufacturing industries. Bridger has demonstrated laser radar and 3D imaging systems with unsurpassed resolution using its actively stabilized swept lasers. The technology has significant benefits to high precision industrial metrology market sectors along with terrestrial and airborne 3D scanning markets. Return