Position accuracy and repeatability calibration of turn tables by using laser interferometers

This paper presents how to perform position accuracy calibration of multi axis turntable with a laser interferometer according to ISO-230-2 Determination of accuracy and repeatability of positioning of numerically controlled axes standard [1]. High accurate multi-axis turn tables are frequently used at defense and aviation & space industries. These turn tables are used to control of devices which collect data regarding position. So turn tables shall be calibrated periodically to remain between specification performances criteria. Calibration of a rotary axis of turn tables’ position is commonly performed by using autocollimator and multi-sided polygon systems. Alignment of polygon and autocollimator with turn table axes may have difficulties regarding time requirements and setup of hardware. Laser interferometers can be used as an alternative method to regular calibration of position and repeatability of an axis with advantages considering time requirement and ease of application. In this study, position accuracy and repeatability calibration of a horizontal axis which has ± 3 arc second will be performed and results will be evaluated.