WaveBench Cine Autocollimator

• Adjusting the flange focal length distance of lenses / shimming
• Focus marking / determination of the back focus distance
• Zoom curves / checking the back focus distance during zooming
• Zoom marking and EFL / checking zoom or focal length markers
• Testing and tracing of image quality / wavefront errors
• MTF Test with optional module
• Star Test with dot image tester
• Determination of the camera flage distance with the support module

By using the ELCOMAT®wave, the transformation from analogue to digital inspection and shimming of lenses is achieved. For the first time, the uniquely high precision and objective measurement method can be used to test the much higher demandes of todays 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 camera tester. This extends the test spectrum from one-dimensional to multi-dimensional focus position determination. This means that astigmatism and coma of isotropic 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 astigmatism and coma - an important aspect in service and testing. With the LED illumination of the ELCOMAT®wave, chromatic aberrations in red, green, blue and white can also be analysed.

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 millimeter accuracy.

Interchangeable lenses in cassettes allow direct adaptation of the auto-collimator 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 option is a converter for the 140 mm module; that 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. An 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 reference lenses (zero lenses) and measuring blocks. Existing conventional measuring blocks with dial gauges could also be used, but wear out the reflector surface. 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.

Optionally the reference mirror could be replaced with a MTF test target. With the corresponding software module the MTF of the lens under test can be evaluated. The MTF curves could 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 tool for cine lens manufactures and services bureaus.