<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nActive alignment is the process of adjusting the lens and image sensor in real-time\u2014while monitoring live image feedback<\/strong>\u2014to achieve optimal focus and image quality across the entire sensor plane. Unlike passive alignment, which relies solely on mechanical fixtures and tolerances, active alignment uses real-time image analysis to fine-tune the alignment with sub-micron precision.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis process ensures that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- The lens is perfectly centered over the image sensor
<\/li> - The focus is optimized across the entire field of view
<\/li> - Aberrations and distortions are minimized
<\/li> - Optical performance is maximized (e.g., MTF, field flatness)<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>How the Active Alignment Process Works<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nHere\u2019s a high-level view of the typical steps involved in active alignment at VVDN\u2019s camera manufacturing lines:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Module Pre-Assembly
<\/strong> The image sensor and the lens holder are permanently mounted on the PCB. A dedicated alignment fixture is used to hold and precisely position the lens within the lens holder during the active alignment process.
<\/li>- Live Image Capture
<\/strong> The module captures a live image of a high-precision test chart (e.g., Siemens star, slanted edges, or checkerboard patterns).
<\/li>- Multi-Axis Adjustment
<\/strong> The lens is moved in five or six degrees of freedom (X, Y, Z, tilt, tip, and sometimes rotation) using ultra-precise motorized stages.
<\/li>- Image Quality Optimization
<\/strong>Real-time algorithms continuously evaluate image quality metrics such as sharpness, MTF symmetry, contrast and edge response, and field flatness. The system iteratively adjusts the lens position until the best achievable optical performance is reached, maximizing usable image quality across the full field of view.
<\/li>- Fixation<\/strong>
Once alignment is optimized, the lens is fixed in place using UV-curable adhesive or laser welding.
<\/li>- Final Quality Verification<\/strong>
The fully aligned module undergoes final validation to confirm MTF compliance across field, Focus and tilt stability.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n