Direct measurement of stationary objects’ dimensions with Michelson type incremental laser interferometer

Abstract

Abstract The paper deals with a design of an original length measuring equipment for a measurement by Michelson-type laser interferometer. Laser measuring operate on the principle of relative movement of two components, where one component is fitted with an interference unit and the other one with a reflector. Such system is capable of measuring the length of displacement post motion, however, it is unable to measure the length of a stationary object. Functionality of the measuring equipment is ensured by a measuring board and a ruler. At a relatively low additional cost, the measuring configuration is capable of measuring the lengths of motionless objects achieving the precision of laser. The paper describes the measurement methodology verified in an experiment. Expanding verification tests of the device may facilitate possible commercial production of such auxiliary device for the Michelson-type laser interferometer, which would make the symposium motto “The future glimmers long before it comes to be” sound especially true.