132000Multiple sensor confocal probe for measurements of difficult materials and surfacesClosedFeasibility StudiesInnovate UKLein Applied Diagnostics provides low cost confocal sensors for distance and thickness measurements of various materials and products. This optical sensor is proving of great interest in applications such as contact lens metrology, ophthalmology and surface profiling. However, as the focal spot of the sensor is only about 10 microns in diameter, surfaces and materials that are rough or variable on dimensions of that order or greater are difficult to measure with adequate accuracy. We are aiming to improve the sensor's performance by adding additional light collection capabilities so that it can be used in applications where the material is difficult to measure with the existing sensor. This is innovative because it will significantly improve the range of applications that our confocal sensor can address. Our challenge is to determine the best approach to address different applications. Our key objectives are to prove the feasibility of extending the range and capabilities of Lein's current technology so that new applications may be addressed.