iView  and Forth Dimension Displays Limited (ForthDD) have entered into an agreement to develop, manufacture and sell Structured Light Projectors (SLPs). SLPs are a key component of 3D automated in-line optical inspection (3D AOI) equipment which is rapidly replacing 2D AOI in printed circuit board (PCB) manufacture. The ability to use 3D AOI to measure components in all three dimensions, on every PCB in real time, enables companies to improve yields and product quality while reducing wastage and costs.

(Photo courtesy of IView and Forth Dimension Displays)

ForthDD’s SXGA-3DM is a fast switching, all digital, high performance reflective Spatial Light Modulator (SLM) product. Designed for 3D AOI, the widely used SXGA-3DM features the industry proven SXGA (1280 x 1024) Time Domain Imaging™ display with a 3D metrology specific display drive interface. iView has long established capabilities in the design and manufacture of microdisplay based projection engines. iView will manufacture the SLPs at their Shenzhen factory combining ForthDD’s SXGA-3DM SLM with an LED illuminator and LED drive electronics, optical components and housing. The SLP will deliver precise, high resolution structured light patterns over a 40mm x 40mm field of view. This combination of the products and expertise from the two companies will allow Chinese 3D AOI equipment manufacturers to reduce their time to market and benefit from an established, experienced SLP supply chain.

Steve Yeung, CEO of iView said “3D scanning using structured light projection is an emerging technology with various applications. In particular, the market for 3D AOI machines is rapidly growing in China. Combining ForthDD’s SLM and iView’s projection technology will result in a cost effective 3D AOI optical system solution for our customers.”

Greg Truman, CEO of ForthDD said “The market for 3D AOI machines is growing rapidly in all parts of the World. ForthDD has a very strong position in the market, supplying leading manufacturers in Germany, Japan and South Korea. Working closely with iView, ForthDD intends to develop a similarly strong position supplying Chinese 3D AOI machine manufacturers.”