Goniometers
Fully-Automatic Goniometers
If you would like to explore other types of Goniometers, click on one of the buttons just below in the header.
GONIOMETERS
Fully Automatic Goniometer
The fully automatic GONIOMAT A series goniometers make the most accurate measurements possible without user actions. Just put your prisms, polygons, wedges, angle blocks and more on the table. These goniometers use a unique internal ray‑tracing analysis that makes the accuracy and ease‑of‑use second to none
FULLY AUTOMATIC GONIOMETERS
Introduction
The GONIOMAT A series produces objective and reproducible measurement results. Measurements are performed automatically, reliably, and without any user intervention. No more breathing on surfaces or manual selection when there are multiple return images from multiple surfaces, the software sorts them out. The results are reported in clear formats which can be easily integrated into documentation.
Please review the overview just below about the possible measurement tasks, features and advantages.
General Information on our Fully Automatic GONIOMAT A Series
Measurement Tasks
The GONIOMAT A Series instruments are capable of measurements for:
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Face-to-face angles of prisms and micro prisms
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Angles of polygon mirrors
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Wedge angles
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Pyramidal angles of prisms
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Angle gauge blocks
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Deflection angles
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Refractive index to identify glass type
Advantages
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Quick adaption to different heights of specimen
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High precision measurement of pyramidal angles
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Suppression of distracting retro reflections
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Potential for measuring extremely small surfaces
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Time saving by using a "virtual tilting table"(no need to adjust
the measurement table) -
Low sensitivity to ambient light
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Measurement of deflection angles without any modifications to
the set-up or hardware -
Measurement of refractive indices at the autocollimator's wavelength
-
Autonomous and reliable image separation in case of multiple
reflected images
Innovative Product Features
The GONIOMAT A Series distinguishes itself from conventional goniometers with the following features:
GONIOMAT A PLUS
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Three easily replaceable measurement tables on a three-point bearing
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Precision bearing with clearance and maintenance-free drive and angle encoder
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No compressed air is needed
-
Special high precision autocollimator with a large measurement range
and a digital camera -
Three dimensional acquisition and analysis of the autocollimation images
-
Integrated optical ray-tracing analysis of the measurement data
-
Integrated laser finder for easy finding of smallest specimen surfaces
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Integrated measurement cell
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Connection of the whole system via a single USB cable
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Extended measurement of refraction index at different wavelengths on request
GONIOMAT A5
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The easily replaceable measurement table on a three-point bearing
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Precision bearing with robust maintenance-free drive and angle encoder
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No compressed air is needed
-
Special high precision autocollimator with a large measurement range
and a digital camera -
Three dimensional acquisition and analysis of the autocollimation images
-
Integrated optical ray-tracing analysis of the measurement data
-
Integrated laser finder for easy finding of smallest specimen surfaces
Note: The GONIOMAT A/ A HR series has been replace by the GONIOMAT A PLUS series. Service and calibration is still available for A/ A HR series.
FULLY AUTOMATIC GONIOMETERS
GONIOMAT A
PLUS
Designed and manufactured by Möller-Wedel Optical GmbH, the GONIOMAT A PLUS carries on their long tradition of high-accuracy full-rotation angle metrology. As the flagship instrument in the GONIOMAT series, it is indispensable for measuring the angles of optical prisms, polygon mirrors, wedges, angle blocks, and other optical components. The completely redesigned GONIOMAT A PLUS is as compact and portable as the GONIOMAT M and as accurate as its high‑accuracy predecessor, the GONIOMAT A-HR. If your laboratory or inspection protocol demands high-accuracy measurements, or high volume, or both, then the GONIOMAT A PLUS is the ideal instrument.
Features
The GONIOMAT A PLUS distinguishes itself from conventional goniometers by the following features:
-
Time saving by using a "virtual tilting table"
-
Integrated optical ray-tracing analysis of the measurement data
-
Autonomous and reliable image separation in case of multiple reflected images
-
Precision bearing with clearance and maintenance free drive and angle encoder
-
No compressed air is needed
-
Special high precision autocollimator with a large measurement range and a digital camera
-
Three dimensional acquisition and analysis of the autocollimation images
-
Integrated laser finder for easy finding of smallest specimen surfaces
-
Integrated measurement cell
-
Connection of the whole system via a single USB cable
-
Extended measurement of refraction index at different wavelengths on request
Measuring Process
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The operator places the specimen on the measurement table
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The operator selects the type of specimen (prism, polygon, etc.) through the software menu
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The operator starts the automatic measurement process
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The software acquires all surface positions by rotating the measurement table automatically
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The software reconstructs the prism's geometry utilizing an optical raytracing analysis on the measurement data
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The software outputs the surface angles
Measuring Set-Up
A GONIOMAT A PLUS consists of a round table with precision bearing with clearance free drive, the interchangeable measurement-tables with three point support, an angle encoder, an electronic autocollimator with a USB port, a drive and the GONIOMATIK software. The software calculates the exact surface positions from the autocollimation image and its corresponding encoder position automatically.
GONIOMAT A DGM
PLUS
The GONIOMAT A PLUS DGM is another innovation from Möller‑Wedel Optical GmbH. This instrument enables the measurement of the grating constant of diffraction gratings or waveguides for telecom or XR (extended realty: AR/VR/MR) applications.
Based off the GONIOMAT A PLUS platform, it features a stabilized HeNe laser as the light source for these precise measurements, guaranteeing the required wavelength stability. The included specimen holder can be used to test entire wafers at the manufacturer or individual parts can be tested on the standard table
Technical Data
Scope of Delivery
Besides the actual instrument each delivery consists of:
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Connection cable
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Mechanical holder for diffraction gratings (wafer D100), only included with GONIOMAT APLUS DGM
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HeNe laser unit with fiber optics output, only included with GONIOMAT APLUS DGM
* according to DIN 1319
** four measurements on 90° rotated encoder positions required; sample surfaces λ/20 p-v, 15x15 mm
*** with the use of a 3-point base
PLEASE NOTE: The GONIOMAT A / A - HR was discontinued in 2018, however maintenance and calibration are still available. Please call us for further information regarding servicing.
FULLY AUTOMATIC GONIOMETERS
GONIOMAT A5
The fully automatic GONIOMAT A5 is based on the form factor of the GONIOMAT M series, so it is just as compact, portable, and flexible, but has the added benefit of being automatic. The improved accuracy over the GONIOMAT M series comes as a bonus! The GONIOMAT A5 is ideal for testing laboratories and workshops, as well as for incoming or outgoing inspection. The motor driven measurement table makes the GONIOMAT A5 a perfect tool for measuring high volume parts.
Features
The GONIOMAT A5 distinguishes itself from conventional goniometers by the following features:
-
The easily replaceable measurement table on a three-point bearing
-
Precision bearing and robust maintenance-free drive
-
No compressed air is needed
-
Special high precision autocollimator with a large measurement range and a digital camera
-
Three dimensional acquisition and analysis of the autocollimation images
-
Integrated optical ray-tracing analysis of the measurement data
-
Integrated laser finder for easy finding of smallest specimen surfaces
Measuring Process
-
The operator places the specimen on the measurement table
-
The operator selects the type of specimen (prism, polygon, etc.) through the software menu
-
The operator starts the automatic measurement process
-
The software acquires all surface positions by rotating the measurement table automatically
-
The software reconstructs the prism's geometry utilizing an optical raytracing analysis on the measurement data
-
The software outputs the surface angles
Measuring Set-Up
A GONIOMAT A5 consists of a bearing round table, the interchangeable measurement-table with three point support, an angle encoder, an electronic autocollimator with a USB port, a drive and the GONIOMATIK software. The software calculates the exact surface positions from the autocollimation image and its corresponding encoder position automatically.
Technical Data
Scope of Delivery
Besides the actual instrument each delivery consists of:
-
Connection Cable
* according to DIN 1319
** four measurements on 90° rotated encoder positions required; sample surfaces λ/4 p-v, 30x30 mm
*** with the use of a 3-point base
FULLY AUTOMATIC GONIOMETERS
Typical Applications
With the goniometers of the GONIOMAT product line a multitude of parameters of plano-optical components can be tested and measured. An overview of the typical application possibilities can be found here.
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
Angle Measurement
For mass production of prisms and angle gauge blocks the measurement of angular accuracy can take place on the production floor. In addition, the pyramidal error to the base will be determined. The software can report both: the result of a single measurement and the mean and distribution values of productions lots. this information can be used to verify production consistency.
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
Prism Measurement
All angles of a prism can be measured for compliance to technical specifications in one measuring sequence. The reflections of all prism surfaces are detected. Afterwards surface, pyramidal and deflection angles are calculated. Pyraqmidal error can be reported according to any various ISO definitions, depending on the application. the deflection angle can be reported for any wavelength, not only for the measurement wavelength. Setting a tolerance level makes incomming and outgoing inspection easier.
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
Polygon Mirror Measurement
During polygon mirror measurement the angle between the surfaces of a polygon are determined according to VDI 2605. The software reports the cumulative angle error, the angle error relative to the first face and between adjacent faces. The software also includes the rossete method, which has the smallest measurement uncertainty. In addition, the pyramidal error can be reported.
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
Wedge Angle Measurement
Three evaluation methods are available for the measurement of plane-parallel windows or wedges: The evaluation of the double image in reflection, measurement by turn-around, measurement against a mirror in transmission. The evaluation method used depends on whether the user requires a fast measurement, a refractive index-independent measurement or a high-accuracy measurement, respectively. The orientation/direction of the wedge will be given for all the methods. This can be used for marking the thick side of the wedge. Additionally, the deflection angle can be calculated by the software.
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
Deflection Angle Measurement
The deflection angle can be measured for all planar optical components and assemblies. Similar to the wedge angle measurement, there is a high-accuracy method, a simple method and a fast method available. The high-accuracy method is comparable to the measurement principle of the "Reeve" method, published in NBSIR 76-993 by NIST. In contrast to the "Reeve" method, the report of the deflection angle is defined according to ISO 10110.
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
Beam Splitter Cube Measurement
The angle of the internal surface of a polarizing beam splitter cube can be measured. The internal angles are determined by the evaluation of multiple reflections at the outer surfaces simultaneously with the outer geometry. The software can report the internal angle, the deflection angle in transmission and/or the deflection angle in reflection.
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
Refractive Index Measurement
For the measurement of refractive index, two evaluation methods are available whose results are based on ray-tracing analysis. The first variant uses the Abbe method and is suitable for refractive angles up to 42°. The second variant uses a double-sided mirror to measure the deflection in transmission, but does not have to be performed at the minimum of deflection. The wavelength of the internal LED is used for measurement and the result is extrapolated to the C'-line.
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
Roof Edge Angle Measurement
A measurement at lacquered surfaces or at roof edges is possible with the roof mode. The measurement uses the information from internal reflections to determine the internal angles. The lacquer does not need to be removed, nor must there be anything attached to the highly sensitive roof edge. So this method alleviates difficulties for both incoming inspection of lacquered prisms and for inspection during production of roof edge prisms.
FULLY AUTOMATIC GONIOMETERS
Measurement Principle
The GONIOMAT A PLUS consists of a rotary table (1) with backlash-free drive (2), easily exchangeable support tables with kinematic mount, an angle encoder (3), an electronic autocollimator (4) with USB connection and the GONIOMATIK software (5).
The calculation of the autocollimation image position with respect to the rotary table position is done by the software. therefore the surfaces need only to be coarsely aligned to the optical axis of the autocollimator.
In case of the GONIOMAT A5 the hardware design corresponds to the GONIOMAT M except the motorized rotary table.
SEMI-AUTOMATIC GONIOMETERS
Measuring Process
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Place specimen
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Choose measurement mode
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Start automatic measuring process
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Software determines all measuring surfaces
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Software executes ray-tracing analysis
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Software displays the measured angle values
FULLY AUTOMATIC GONIOMETERS
Accessories
MÖLLER-WEDEL OPTICAL offers for your applications or measurement tasks with an automatic goniometer of the GONIOMAT A product line the perfect matching accessories.
Here are presented the in scope of delivery and optional offered accessories.
If you need more information, please contact us!
ACCESSORIES
Angle Measurement Standard
Each GONIOMAT M and GONIOMAT A is supplied with an angle measurement standard for on-site inspection and calibration.
Art. No. Description Comment
241 612 Angle Measurement Standard Part of the scope of delivery of GONIOMAT M
and GONIOMAT A product line
ACCESSORIES
Parallel Mirror 2" for Refractive Index Measurement
The refractive index measurement in Abbe-mode is possible for refractive angles up to arcsin (1/n). Thus, the refractive angle is limited to approximately 42°. For refractive angles between 40° and 60°, the refractive index has to be measured in "minimum of deflection" against a double-sided mirror.
Art. No. Description Comment
280 803 Parallel Mirror 2" For GONIOMAT M and GONIOMAT A
ACCESSORIES
V-Prism for Plane Plates & Wedges
MÖLLER-WEDEL OPTICAL GmbH offer a V-block prism for secure mounting of wedges or plane plates in a diameter range from 40 to 60 mm. Alongside the determination of the wedge angle it is possible to determine the angle deviation of the cylindrical axis of the lateral area to the optical axis.
Art. No. Description Comment
280 624 V-Block Prism for GONIOMAT M and GONIOMAT A / A-HR
Note: The V-Block Prism is especially designed for the GONIOMAT series and cannot be used by other products.
ACCESSORIES
Support Table H12
The support table H12 for GONIOMAT M series allows the measurement of smaller prisms. The distance between optical axis of the autocollimator and the rotary table surface is reduced by support table around 12 mm.
Art. No. Description Comment
241 611 Support Table H12 Part of the scope of delivery of GONIOMAT M and A5
ACCESSORIES
Support Tables H20, H35, H45
The support table H20, H35 and H45 for GONIOMAT A / A-HR and GONIOMAT APLUS product line allow the measurement of prisms with different sizes. The distance between optical axis of the autocollimator and the rotary table surface is reduced by the support tables around 20, 35 or 45 mm.
Art. No. Description Comment
241 651 Support Table H20 Ideal for Prism Surfaces with Height > 30 mm
241 652 Support Table H35 Ideal for Prism Surfaces with Height between 10 - 40 mm
241 653 Support Table H45 Ideal for Prism Surfaces with Height < 15 mm
Note: All three support tables are included in the scope of delivery of a GONIOMAT A / A-HR and GONIOMAT APLUS.
ACCESSORIES
Support Table H12
With the tiltable support table, the user can measure prism faces with large production tolerances or a clear deviation from 90° to the base surface. it enables the compensation of pyramidal angles resulting in a tilt of prism face.
Art. No. Description Comment
241 666 Tiltable Support Table H35 for GONIOMAT APLUS