Alignment Turning
Technical Background
Alignment turning to us means to machine a mounted lens to minimize tilt
< 12 arcseconds and shift < 1 µm. It has been used in industry
since the 1960s. Nevertheless, the technology is still not highly
common in optical assembly. Innolite has been developing customer-
oriented solutions and machine systems for over 10 years. We are glad to share our expertise in the field of
lens design, measurability,
machining, optics protection during cutting, cell design and mounting.
As well, proper tolerancing is a decisive topic to optimize the systems performance at the lowest possible
cost.
Lens Types for Centering
We cover the widest range of lens types in alignment turning at Innolite.
For spheres and achromats we use our autocollimator metrology to
determine the optical axis. The orientation of aspheric surfaces are
characterized by full confocal scanning to the highest precision with
our patented technology. Infrared lenses can be measured with an inline
fully integrated laser alignment system by OptoAlignment. To measure
micro optics with single millimeter diameter, we use special
projection objectives to still receive sufficient signal quality.
Our unique chuck-less centering approach utilizes slow tool turning
for the highest accuracy and unmatched productivity. Depending on the
part, we can realize centering turning at up to 1,600 rpm.
Centering of Lasers
We also use our alignment turning technology to align active components, such as lasers or diodes. With a battery-operated chuck, we allow for light emission of the active components during continuous rotation. These light beams are measured with our integrated metrology to seamlessly generate self-centering programs for machining of alignment mounts. This unique approach allows for efficient assembly processes and easy reinstallation of spares in the field.
Mounts & Barrels
Since we work chuck-less by slow tool turning, our machines are fully developed ultra-precision CNC lathes. We can leverage this capability to your advantage, and machine high precision mechanics, such as barrels, spacers, and mounts. Due to the high stiffness of our machines, we cut commonly used aluminum and brass as well as steel, titanium or other high-performance metals.