Modern Optical Fabrication Techniques – Jessica DeGroote-Nelson, Optimax

Optical fabrication has continued to evolve for centuries, however in the past thirty years the industry has transitioned from artisan, craft based precision polishing to harnessing the advantages provided by laser based metrology and computer controlled grinding and polishing platforms.  This tutorial will review the fundamentals of traditional optical fabrication and testing methods and mechanisms of material removal, and then focus on advancements in modern optics manufacturing and how these methods shape how we manufacture precision optical components today.  This tutorial will only briefly mention diamond turning, as it will focus more on brittle material removal techniques.

Jessica DeGroote-Nelson, Optimax

 Jessica DeGroote Nelson is the Director of Technology and Strategy at Optimax, a high precision optics manufacturer, located in Ontario, NY.

She joined the company in 2007 after graduating from The Institute of Optics at the University of Rochester with a B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. in Optics. She furthered her education with an Executive MBA degree from the Simon Business School at the University of Rochester in 2013.  Jessica is also an adjunct faculty member at The Institute of Optics teaching undergraduate and graduate courses on optical materials, fabrication and testing.