---
title: Mid Spatial Frequency (MSF) Error Surface Smoothing | Optimax
description: Optimax eliminates mid-spatial frequency (MSF) errors left by small tool polishers, which can cause light blurring or scattering. Read More.
image: https://www.optimaxsi.com/hubfs/LFW-freeform-fringes--banner.jpg
---

![Freeform Optics - Mid Spatial Frequency (MSF) Error Surface Smoothing](https://www.optimaxsi.com/hs-fs/hubfs/LFW-freeform-fringes--banner.jpg?width=300&name=LFW-freeform-fringes--banner.jpg)

# Select Mid Spatial Frequency (MSF) Error Surface Smoothing

 Eliminating errors is a central tenet of optical innovation. Small tool polishers tend to leave residual mid-spatial frequency (MSF) errors on surfaces which can lead to blurring or even scattering of light. Even small scattering angles can be detrimental to optical performance and needs a solution.

#### The Challenge

Small tool polishers leave residual MSF errors on surfaces that in an imaging system can create blur or small angles of scatter.

#### Solution Delivered

We deliver an iterative smoothing process to reduce MSF errors and are currently developing a robotic machine-learning solution that can be used on freeform surfaces.

### Engineered Solutions in Action

###### Smoothing Mid-spatial Frequency (MSF) Errors on Freeform Optics with an Algorithm-based Robotic Platform Utilizing Deflectometry Input

Optimax has developed the HERMES (High End Robotic MSF Elimination System) a robotic platform that uses a machine learning algorithm to smooth parts. Preliminary research indicated promising results, but the process had not yet been compared to the “gold standard” of human smoothing. 

[Read More](https://www.optimaxsi.com/engineered-solutions/select-mid-spatial-frequency-msf-error-surface-smoothing)

![HERMES---Technical-Paper](https://go.optimaxsi.com/hs-fs/hubfs/HERMES---Technical-Paper.jpg?width=300&name=HERMES---Technical-Paper.jpg)

### Fabricating Freeform Optics

Optical designers choose Optimax for our high-precision freeform optics, which reduce system complexity with smaller, lighter profiles. As a leading producer, we combine optimal grinding and smoothing technologies to fabricate precise components with minimal positional and mid-spatial frequency errors. This expertise allows us to tackle challenging projects and produce high-precision freeforms for UV, Visible, and IR applications using proprietary low-scatter techniques.

[Learn More](https://www.optimaxsi.com/products/freeforms)

![Fabricating Freeform Optics](https://go.optimaxsi.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Freeform-optics-held-with-back.webp?width=300&name=Freeform-optics-held-with-back.webp)

### Do you want to find out more?

 Optimax creates tailored optical solutions to meet a wide range of needs, with industry-leading custom optics designed by expert engineers. Explore more of our technical papers on fabrication of freeform optics here.

[Read More](https://www.optimaxsi.com/technical-papers/freeform-optics)

### LEARN FROM THE EXPERTS

 Want to learn more about the innovation and ideology happening here at Optimax Systems? Sign up to receive our Technical Papers.

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