Abwinkelung

Abwinkelung is a German term used in physics and engineering to denote the angular deviation of a line, beam, or feature from a reference orientation. The word combines ab- (away) and Winkel (angle) and is used as a general descriptor of misalignment or deflection in various technical contexts.

In optics, Abwinkelung describes the change in direction of a light beam when it interacts with surfaces or media. It can occur on reflection from a tilted surface or when a beam passes through an interface with a different refractive index. The resulting angular deviation is influenced by incidence angle, surface orientation, and material properties, and is a key parameter in the design and alignment of optical systems, lenses, prisms, and calibration targets.

Engineering contexts use Abwinkelung to quantify misalignment between components, such as a mounted sensor, a mirror, or a rotary stage relative to a nominal axis. Small Abwinkelungen can cause measurement errors, reduced precision, or incorrect beam positioning.

Measurement and tolerancing: Abwinkelung is typically specified in degrees or arcminutes. It is determined by alignment procedures, interferometric or autocollimating methods, or angular encoders. Tolerances are included in assembly drawings and calibration routines to ensure performance.

Causes include mechanical misalignment, surface imperfections, mounting looseness, thermal expansion, or assembly errors. Mitigation involves precise alignment, adjustment mechanisms, and environmental control.