Surface measurement using a Blu-ray laser pick up (1 Viewer)

[veggiop]

For my final year project I propose to use the Blu-ray laser unit from a disk drive (something like a KEM-410ACA, without all the problems of using a sony part) to measure surface roughness. I will relate the proportional analog signal from the voice coil motor that focuses the laser dot on the surface of a disk to the a profile of the micro peaks and valleys on the surface. Or possibly the focus error signal. . I will need a stand alone power up sequence for the product and will have to control the motor and get the laser into auto focusing mode. Do you have any suggestions on a unit I can buy that I will be able to get some non-standard technical support with. Also I will need to have easy access to full schematics including pinout configurations.

 

[Ralphie_B]

Intriguing idea - using Blu-Ray optics is a smart move, as they very well-understood, and reference designs/parts kits may be available (Blu-Ray utilization is increasingly widespread, I could foresee a growing number of consumer products beyond just dedicated players starting to incorporate it).
The first company that comes to my mind is Oppo -- they are known for building enthusiast-friendly players, and seem to interact with their user base more than the megacorps (e.g. Sony, Samsung). Good luck!