CalcuLens v2.0

Just three simple steps give you complete, accurate lens alignment information.

STEP 1 - Input Lens Information

CalcuLens screens are clean and intuitive to make data entry quick and easy as seen in Figures 1.  Choose Lens Type from the drop-down menu and an illustration of that lens type appears with all relevant dimensions and characteristics flagged.  You are prompted to enter diameter, both radii of surface curvatures, center thickness, material index, and distance to the previous lens surface. The software automatically determines the proper sign (+ or -).  

Once entered CalcuLens automatically calculates the distance from the Laser Alignment Station optical module to the surface under test.  This powerful feature reduces confusion with which surface is under test for multi-element assemblies.

Information is automatically entered into the Image Finder spreadsheet shown in Figure 2. 

STEP 2 - The Image Finder

The Image Finder feature is a powerful spreadsheet that captures important data about the lens assemblies under test.  The spreadsheet can easily be shared over the network with engineering and quality assurance personnel for design and SPC purposes.  It interfaces with the most popular optical design software to deliver real time analysis of quality and alignment of the lens assembly.

The spreadsheet is easy to use.  Just activate the assembled status of each surface one at a time in the Status column.  Click on the Calculate button and CalcuLens automatically calculates both Normal and Confocal distances.

No lens assembly is too complex.  CalcuLens can handle assemblies with up to 99 surfaces. 

STEP 3 - Live video for centration

Using the joystick on your Laser Alignment Station to position the optical module to either the normal or confocal distance.  A click of the Centroid button and selection of the image generates a cross line at the centroid image, as shown in Figure 3.  Rotate the air bearing to reposition the image and repeat the process.  At the third iteration the system calculates the alignment (TIR) of the selected surface.

Built-in zoom capability allows enlargement of the image to increase sensitivity and accuracy.

As lenses are added to the assembly the process is repeated resulting in the very best alignment possible for every lens in the assembly.  Once completed, the data for the entire assembly is saved in the spreadsheet, Figure 4, and can be shared with other members of the team in QA/QC, design and manufacturing.

click-on for larger image

figure 1

figure 2

figure 3

figure 4