When
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Title
A measured life: 60 years of precision metrology and other things
Abstract
We have all heard the saying “If you cannot measure it, you cannot make it,” for optical fabrication, but it applies to most things where precision is required. The past decades have seen fantastic advancements in optical systems from astronomical telescopes that see to the edge of the universe to virtual reality systems that enable people to experience worlds that never exist. The new optical components and systems have required new ways to measure them. This talk gives a very personal journey into the field of optical engineering, through some interesting projects, and into the business world of optical metrology.
Bio
Jim Burge is President of Arizona Optical Metrology, a small company started in 2009 that manufactures computer generated holograms and incorporates them into measuring equipment, and Professor Emeritus of Optics and Astronomy at University of Arizona.
Dr. Burge started his adventure in optics at Ohio State University earning a BS in Engineering Physics, and working as a mechanical engineer building stabilized platforms for optical systems. From there he went to the University of Arizona to study at the Optical Sciences Center. He worked as a research scientist for the astronomy department for nearly a decade -- working on telescopes, instruments, and large mirrors -- and earned a PhD in optics along the way.
He then pursued a career in academia as Professor of Optical Sciences at University of Arizona, performing research and teaching in optomechanics, optical systems engineering, and optical fabrication and testing. He served as advisor for many companies who build optical systems and government organizations who use them. Dr. Burge led the development of the measurement systems for a wide range of projects, including mirrors and lenses for the world’s most powerful telescopes.
Dr. Burge since graduated from the University and applies his energy to industry, leading Arizona Optical Metrology to develop custom metrology systems that support a wide range of applications from precision machining to consumer optics to space telescopes.
He is a Fellow of SPIE and Optica, and 2011 recipient of the OSA Fraunhofer-Burley award which recognizes significant research accomplishments in the field of optical engineering.
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