I would like to make a precise distance measuring device (distance from 0 to 1.5m). I was thinking about interferometry. Any plans? What laser should i use?
I would like to make a precise distance measuring device (distance from 0 to 1.5m). I was thinking about interferometry. Any plans? What laser should i use?
Did U find any answers?
I built an interferometer to see what's doable. Based on a red laser pointer.
It was extremely sensitive to movement. It was built on a cut-down cement paver.
It's amazing how little force is required to flex a paver!!
I too want to build a laser device to measure over similar distance down to 1 micron.
The interferometer was too sensitive..
cheers,
Qtron.
An interferometer doesn't provide absolute distance measurements, and most likely you don't need it's resolution. See Keith's suggestion from a recent thread
Laser pointers will not usually be good for interferometry - they a not single wavelength although it would work at short distances. The wavelength is also temperature sensitive.
Personally I like the Heterodyne approach - it is accurate, works well over short range & avoids too much high speed circuitry. Hamamatsu's position sensitive detectors are also an interesting option.