Measurement and determination of encoder disc surface parameters in x-z planes using a conventional optical disc reading head

Non-contact surface measurement methods as well as roughness parameter determination methods are analyzed in the paper. While most of the modern non-contact surface inspection methods require advanced instrumentation and a big budget, this study looks into a novel approach to non-contact encoder disc roughness measurements by using the proposed system attached to the rotary table with an implemented optical disc pick up head and the reference angle encoder. Application of a conventional optical disc laser reading system resulted in a cost effective and compact solution for a non-destructive angle encoder disc surface inspection. Assets and shortcomings as well as detailed analysis of the measurement procedure are explained in the paper. The experimental setup and the measurement results are presented within this article.