Two-Wavelength Laser Interferometer System Which Reduces the Uncertainty Caused by the Fluctuation of the Refractive Index of Air

Abstract

Laser interferometers are widely used to measure highly sensitive length and displacement, e.g., in which refractive index fluctuations of air adversely affect measurement accuracy. To compensate for these effects, the two-wavelength interferometer studied has not yet proved practical in industrial use. We studied the interferometer’s performance and practicality, using uncertainty analysis to extract its features. Based on our results, we developed a two-wavelengthMichelson interferometer with wavelengths of 1064 nm and 532 nm. It was calibrated and evaluated using a highprecision laser interferometer whose optical path was in a vacuum. Results confirmed measurement accuracy of 100 nm/50 mm (k=2) under unstable air conditions - superior to a traditional laser interferometer.