28th August 2017, Scotland – Lumaxis of Reston, Virginia has successfully integrated in their new Structured Light Projectors (SLP) the 3 MPixel (2048 x 1536 pixels) Spatial Light Modulator (SLM) from Forth Dimension Displays. SLPs are a key component of 3D optical inspection, for example in 3D automated optical inspection (3D AOI) equipment. 3D AOI is rapidly replacing 2D AOI in the quality control of printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing. The ability to use 3D AOI to measure in-line SMT components in all three dimensions on every PCB enables companies to improve yields and product quality while reducing wastage and costs.
ForthDD’s QXGA-3DM is a fast switching, all digital, high performance reflective SLM product. Designed for 3D optical metrology, the QXGA-3DM features the industry proven Time Domain Imaging™ display with a 3D metrology specific display drive interface.
Lumaxis is a division of NVIS Inc. which has long established capabilities in the design and manufacture of optical systems based on Forth Dimension Displays’ microdisplays. Lumaxis will manufacture the SLPs in the US combining ForthDD’s QXGA-3DM SLM with an LED illuminator and LED drive electronics, optical components and housing. The SLP will deliver precise, high resolution (25 line pairs/mm) structured light patterns over a 41mm x 35mm field of view. This combination of the products and expertise from the two companies will allow manufacturers of 3D optical metrology equipment to reduce their time to market and benefit from an established, experienced SLP supply chain.
Marc Foglia, CEO of NVIS said “3D optical metrology using structured light projection is an enabling technology for quality control in various lines of manufacturing. In particular, the market for 3D AOI machines is rapidly growing with increasing demand on high precision and the ability to measure small feature sizes. Combining ForthDD’s SLM and Lumaxis’ projection technology will result in a 3D optical metrology solution for demanding customers.”
Greg Truman, CEO of ForthDD said “The market for 3D optical inspection is growing rapidly in all parts of the World. ForthDD has a very strong position in the 3D AOI market, supplying leading manufacturers in Germany, Japan, China and South Korea. Working closely with Lumaxis, ForthDD intends to expand this position supplying into the ultrahigh precision market.”