WaveBench Cine Autocollimator

• Shimming - adjusting the flange focal distance of lenses
• Parfocal Test - checking the back focus distance during zooming
• Focus marking - determination of the focus distance marks
• EFL and Zoom Mark – check focal length and zoom markers
• Image Quality - testing and tracing of image quality and optical errors
• Resolution – measure resolution Performance with optional MTF Test module
• Star Test – alternative check for image errors with optional module
• Camera flange – determination of camera flange distance with optional module

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By using the ELCOMAT®wave, the transformation from analogue to digital inspection and shimming of lenses is achieved. For the first time, a uniquely high precision and objective measurement method can be used to test the much higher demands of today’s high-tech lenses to create a precisely calculated look. The measurement setup is also suitable for reproducing a specific bokeh of old classics in a defined way. The carefully coordinated interaction of all WaveBench components and modules has created a system that offers significant value added not only for service and rental, but also for the production and manufacture of cine lenses.

With the ELCOMAT®wave, the focus position can now be determined with up to four apertures instead of two, as with the Mark III 45S autocollimator. This extends the test spectrum from shimming to digital testing of image quality test in one device without a projector. Optical errors and poor performance of lenses as a result of misalignment and decentration can now be qualitatively recorded, documented and, if necessary, corrected using the four apertures. Furthermore, anamorphic lenses can be checked for the most common optical errors like astigmatism and coma - an important aspect in service and testing.

Due to the adjustable distance, the ELCOMAT®wave can be used to test at any focus setting from infinity to close up. The integrated measuring sensors eliminate the requirement for a separate distance measuring device and allow finite distances to be set with millimetre accuracy. No extra-large test room and projector needed due to virtual distances. With the LED illumination of the ELCOMAT®wave, chromatic errors in red, green, blue and white can also be analysed and digitally classified to simple numbers. The LEDs cover the expanded BT.2020 spectrum and enable ITU conform UHD testing.

Interchangeable lenses in cassettes allow direct adaptation of the autocollimator to the focal length range and apertures of the lenses to be tested. Modules with focal lengths of 140 mm, 300 mm and 400 mm are available. These can be used to test a range of lens from approximately 14 mm to 200 mm focal length. A new software-based boost function extends the test range down to about 4 mm. This makes WaveBench suitable for broadcast applications.

The mount system is also adaptable through interchangeable cassettes. Currently, modules are available for the mount types PL-, EF- and E-Mount. A universal cassette for standard camera adapters is available on request. The cassette system allows for easy expansion to include other mount types on demand.

The traceability of the back focus of the mount systems is ensured via associated measuring blocks or  reference lenses (zero lenses). Existing conventional measuring blocks with dial gauges can also be used, if equipped with plastic tips. Another option for traceability of the flange focal distance can be realised with special optical accessories (plane plate and attachment optics) using the digital scale on the mount slide.

The WaveBench can be equipped with a point image generator and thus a star test analysis can be carried out. Based on the changed shape of the light spot caused by the lens under test, conclusions can also be drawn about the dominant aberrations. Images can also be stored to the database and compared afterwards.

Optionally, the reference mirror can be replaced with a MTF test target. With the corresponding software module the MTF of the lens under test can be measured and the contrast at a given resolution can be evaluated. The MTF curves and contrast value for HD, 4K or 8K can be stored and compared with data from the database. In addition to testing with the ELCOMAT®wave for focus, astigmatism and coma the MTF test will also be sensitive to higher order optical errors such as opening errors and stray light. This makes the MTF test the ideal add-on for cine lens manufactures and services centers.

All hardware functions are mapped by the WaveBench software. The software has several user levels. The simplest level provides clear user guidance through the measurement process. Basic computer knowledge is sufficient to perform the measurement tasks without errors. Higher user levels allow complex analyses beyond everyday measurement tasks. All measurements can be logged and performed easily without using the integrated database. Optional use of the database in the measurement software allows recurring measurement parameters to be retrieved and current measurement results to be compared with old measurement results. Independent measurement processes e.g. for shimming are available for the various tasks.

In addition to precise shimming at any distance, the software can calculate the best new shim combination for the lens being tested. When shimming, the square deviation gives a first impression of the image quality. If the square does not look good enough, the image quality can be assessed in detail in terms of astigmatism, coma and overall image quality.

A separate, stand-alone editor software can be used to access stored measurement data records. These can then be used by sales, quality control or service technicians to monitor the condition of the lenses over the lifecycle, to determine the special features of an individual lens or series in comparison and thus to meet special quality requirements of an individual customer.

In addition to checking the focus marking or generating user marks for the follow focus, the bench can also check the parfocal tuning. Parfocal shimming can be performed as an option. With image quality, astigmatism, coma and overall image performance can be evaluated and recorded as comparable figures.

The optional tests can be used for detailed evaluation. Will the lens achieve the expected contrast at HD, 4K or 8K? The MTF evaluation provides contrast values for the selected resolution.