Degree
Master of Engineering Science
Program
Mechanical and Materials Engineering
Supervisor
Remus Tutunea-Fatan
2nd Supervisor
Evgueni Bordatchev
Joint Supervisor
Abstract
The optical phenomenon of retroreflection (RR) is described as light rays contacting a surface and being redirected back to their originating source. While applications are many and varied, their primary focus is safety in low-light conditions, and the focus of this research is toward automotive applications. Few geometric shapes are capable of retroreflection. Among them are the lens-and-mirror, and cube corner geometry; however, the right triangular prism (RTP) has been introduced as a viable alternative. This study demonstrates a more efficient fabrication technology when compared to current industry practices.
The ultraprecise single point inverted cutting (USPIC) technology was envisioned as a combination of diamond turning and multi-axis machining. The unique cutting kinematics of USPIC required the development of dedicated tooling and a postprocessor for machine automation. Experimental results have demonstrated both the feasibility of this approach, and that RTP arrays fabricated by this technology outperform those fabricated through conventional means.
Recommended Citation
Hamilton, Benjamin W., "Ultraprecise Single Point Inverted Cutting Strategies for Multi-axis Fabrication of Right Triangular Prismatic Retroreflectors" (2016). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 4002.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/4002