INGENERIC expands metrology capabilities with Panasonic UA3P
New 3D profilometer ensures precise inspection and stable processes – for reproducible performance of micro-optics and lens arrays
Micro-optics from INGENERIC are valued for their high quality, precision, and performance in application. To further strengthen this promise to our customers, we have expanded our metrology capabilities with a new ultra-high-precision 3D profilometer: the Panasonic UA3P.
The UA3P series is a contact-based AFM profilometer that enables measurements in the nanometer range. Especially for demanding optical components such as aspheric lenses, freeform optics, mirrors, or lens molds, the system delivers outstanding accuracy. For manufacturing at INGENERIC, this means that even extremely complex and steep optics with angles of up to 70° can now be measured even more accurately, analyzed in detail, and comprehensively documented. At the same time, the measuring force is significantly lower than that of conventional tactile profilometers, so sensitive surfaces are not damaged. Automated measurement routines, precise XYZ positioning, and repeatability and resolution in the nanometer range enable us to reliably verify tight tolerances.
More assurance and precision for our customers
The greatest added value for our customers lies in the increased dimensional accuracy and higher confidence in meeting specified form parameters. The UA3P achieves measurement accuracies down to 0.01 µm. This allows us to verify characteristics such as radius, surface irregularity, maximum slope, and RMS form error with extreme precision. For applications whose optical performance depends heavily on the smallest deviations, reliability is significantly improved: imaging errors, focus shifts, or MTF deviations can be much more effectively avoided.
Reliable measurements – independent of material or coating
Another advantage results from the measurement principle: unlike purely optical measurement systems, the accuracy of the UA3P is largely independent of transparency, reflectivity, or coatings of the surface. This enables us to achieve stable measurement results on polished, matte, coated, or transparent aspheres as well as on complex-shaped optics. This minimizes measurement errors caused by scattering effects and provides additional assurance – especially for new designs, innovative materials, or specialized coatings.
Stable processes, high yield, reliable delivery performance
By integrating metrology directly into our manufacturing processes, our teams receive immediately actionable feedback for tool corrections and form optimization. This ensures stable process control, reduces scrap, and minimizes the risk of defective parts. For our customers, this translates into reliable delivery times, high process stability, and consistently high yield – even for complex projects and tight schedules.
“With the investment in the Panasonic UA3P, we are sending a clear signal: we aim to further increase the measurable quality of our optics and provide our customers with maximum assurance,” says Dr. Stefan Hambücker, Managing Director of INGENERIC. “The new metrology brings nanometer-level precision directly into our production – and for our customers, that means above all: full specification compliance and consistently stable optical performance of our optics.”