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Sensors for Space Telescope Lens Testing

By on May 23, 2019 in Cryogenic environments, Displacement Sensor, Fiber Optic Vacuum Passthru, Fiberoptic Sensors, multiplexing sensors, Non-Contact Sensing, Quality Control, space cryogenics, Space Telescope Lens

The Euclid Satellite project a good example of Philtec’s sensors being used with excellent results in cryogenic conditions. A technical paper published in 2012  shows Philtec’s high precision sensors were successfully used at 150°K to verify the distortion of lens holders to be <1 micron,  well within the project requirements.

This month Philtec has again delivered sensor systems for space telescope lens distortion measurements. These are 2-channel fiber optic displacement sensor systems designed for 3.2 mm operation in vacuum.

2-Channel Displacement Sensor with BvF120 Vacuum Passthru Assembly

Seven 2-channel sensor systems were delivered with the following options:

  • Multi-Channel Vacuum Passthru Assembly in 120 mm Custom Flange
  • SS Interlok Cable Jacket in Vacuum
  • 6m Total Fiberoptic Cable Length (1.5 in air, 4.5 in vacuum)
  • Low CTE Invar Tips

The fiber optic cables are trifurcated for connection to the vacuum passthru (one transmit bundle and two receivers). With 14 sensor channels x 3 legs each, 42 vacuum ports were required. Each BvF120 has 16 ports, and therefore three BvF120 assemblies were used to pass all channels.

Multi-Channel Vacuum Passthru Assembly

REFERENCE

‘Test Results of High-Precision Large Cryogenic Lens Holders’, 2012, Proceedings of the SPIE Publication “Modern Technologies in Space- and Ground-based Telescopes and Instrumentation II”.

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Glass Shape Gaging

By on March 15, 2017 in Auto Glass Shape Gaging, Fiberoptic Sensors, multiplexing sensors, Non-Contact Sensing, Quality Control

The shape of curved glass windows in automated production lines is typically measured using LVDT contact sensors. When the glass is very thin and light, normal pressure of the LVDT probes tend to move the glass from the holding fixture and corrupt the measurement. Philtec’s non-contact FODS (Fiber Optic Displacement Sensors) solve the problem.

This month Philtec has delivered 100 sensors for a gaging station at a European automotive glass window manufacturing plant (50 for the driver side, and 50 for the passenger side). These sensors are very accurate, and prevent movement or scratches on the glass.

 

The model RC171 FODS is a reflectance compensated optical sensor with 15 mm operating range. It is insensitive to part-to-part reflectance variations as well as to ambient lighting interference. Data from a set of 50 probes is read in less than 1 second.

Read More: 
http://www.philtec.com/downloadssupport/documentlibrary/documents/applicationnotes/V9N1_ContouredGlassInspection.pdf
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USB Powered Sensors

By on March 15, 2015 in Fiberoptic Sensors, Miniaturized Sensors, multiplexing sensors, Non-Contact Sensing, USB Powered Sensors

µDMS-RC22 & USBIntroducing our smallest and most powerful digital sensor series with USB output: the MicroDMS series (µDMS). Powered via any standard USB port, or multiplexed via any standard USB hub, this new sensor series boasts a maximum data sample rate of 16,000 samples per second in a 145 gram enclosure of LWH dimensions 75 x 50 x 23 mm. With Philtec’s fully-featured DMS Control freeware, this sensor is a powerful solution to many measurement problems.

With its miniaturized size and USB power, it is an ideal solution for high density workstations where space is at a premium. Sensors can be stacked together to form the most compact arrangement. For example, 6 sensor modules can be stacked together in a space of 132 mm.

Contact our application engineering staff to explore the possibilities the µDMS series offers for you.

6 sensor boxes

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