An investigation of lapping characteristics for improving the form error of an aspheric lens

In the generation of an aspheric lens process, the angle of inclination between the cup wheel and the lens surface, and also the rotational speed of workpiece all have an impact on the end result. The abrasive grain size, lapping pads and the uniformity of the lapping pressure distribution were selected as the major factors that affect the lapping process. This study also compares the machining effects including grinding, lapping and polishing on an aspheric lens. A form accuracy of 0.6929 μm P-V and a surface roughness of 124 nm Ra were obtained. The conclusions show that the methods proposed are effective for improving the form accuracy and for reducing surface roughness with proper lapping parameters.