Page 12 - Industrial Technology EXTRA 15th February 2021

equally, it must not be too sensitive to other devices results, using different set of random values of those
nearby that are transmitting or radiating signals,” parameters. In this instance, the various parameters
explains Pacer’s Stuart Sendall. included dimensional radius, curvatures, X and Y
misalignment and axis variations. This analysis
Mechanically sound helped us to determine by how much the point of
A bespoke mechanical three-lens design was focus altered under the various environmental
developed to ensure it could withstand all the conditions.
temperature variations. As lenses get hot or cold, Production of the laser rangefinder took place on
they expand and contract as individual elements but a stabilised optical bench which Pacer invested in
the distance with respect to one another also specifically for this project. Stuart continues: “We
changes. learnt a lot through the production phase and as
Therefore, Pacer undertook a Monte Carlo such, introduced several bespoke processes to
analysis – a well-known technique that assesses the ensure we met the requirements. For example, we
system performance impact of a set of variable assembled the lens stack in a nitrogen purged
parameters, by repeatedly calculating possible environment – assembling these lenses in an area
with no oxygen ensured that no moisture could
invade it.
“We also had to optically polish our metal work
to get it to the flatness required. This level of pre-
cision is incredibly rare and reinforces the expert
skills of our engineers. We are unaware of any
machine process that can achieve that level of prec-
ision. Despite the challenges, being able to foresight
the designator to 10km range and 2m diameter
accuracy whilst meeting the rigorous require-
ments is a significant technical achievement.”
www.pacer.co.uk

February 2021 • INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY EXTRA • p12