Short-wave infrared (SWIR) sensors are becoming significantly important in various industries, especially additive manufacturing. These sensors provide unique capabilities that enable processes such as defect detection, real-time monitoring, and control over specific properties. In this blog post, we discuss how SWIR sensors are used in additive manufacturing and the benefits they provide.

What are SWIR Imaging Sensors?

SWIR sensors operate in the short-wave infrared spectrum, a wavelength range between the visible light and the long-wave infrared. These sensors utilize materials like Indium Gallium Arsenide (InGaAs) to capture and detect SWIR wavelengths, which is necessary to visualize objects or processes that may be invisible to the naked eye. With their ability to detect radiation in this range, SWIR sensors offer distinct advantages in imaging applications, including additive manufacturing.

Read our blog post for a more in-depth explanation of how SWIR cameras work.

Understanding Additive Manufacturing

Additive manufacturing, also called 3D printing or abbreviated to AM, is a process that builds objects layer by layer using computer-controlled systems. Typically, additive manufacturing involves three key stages:

• Design
• Preparation
• Printing

There are numerous advantages to AM, including improved accuracy, lower costs, rapid prototyping, and reduced material waste. However, it also has its challenges, including material limitations and post-processing requirements. In recent years, additive manufacturing has seen emerging trends and advancements, such as improved materials and enhanced complexity of printed objects. But the introduction of SWIR sensors has had a significant impact.

The Role of SWIR Imaging Sensors in Additive Manufacturing

SWIR sensors have found valuable applications in additive manufacturing. They enable defect detection by identifying thermal anomalies invisible to the naked eye or other imaging technologies. Additionally, SWIR imaging aids in boundary detection, ensuring precise printing location and adherence to specifications.

Other crucial applications include the following:

• Environmental Monitoring: Monitoring air quality, humidity, and particulate matter.
• Quality Control: Inspecting the quality of printed products.
• Real-time Monitoring: Offering vital information about product properties.
• Temperature Control: The environment’s temperature is important, and close monitoring is essential for optimizing printing conditions.

New Imaging Technologies offer State-of-the-Art SWIR Sensors

New Imaging Technologies have invested heavily over the years in all aspects of SWIR technology. This includes camera electronics, photodiode arrays, and software. With in-house manufacturing technologies, we are an integrated source for SWIR sensors and cameras and offer a unique product portfolio for those in additive manufacturing and other industries.

SWIR sensors are used for inspecting parts and monitoring processes, both of which have been difficult to visualize in the past. However, with SWIR cameras that can accurately capture processes such as laser deposition and selective laser melting, operators can clearly monitor fabrication processes. As a result, additive manufacturing methods can be optimized, and overall productivity can be increased.

NIT has developed a range of WiDy SenS cameras fitted with InGaAs sensors, offering unique features suitable for a range of applications. These offer high dynamic range and sensitivity, a comfortable field of view, and a pure-linear mode ideal for monitoring additive manufacturing processes.

Welding plays a vital role in various manufacturing industries as it enables the assembly of metal parts with precision and strength. More importantly, visualizing the welding processes has proven crucial in enhancing the quality and efficiency of welding operations. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of clearly monitoring welding processes and explain how Short Wave Infrared (SWIR) cameras are invaluable.

Importance of Welding in Manufacturing Industries

Welding has been a key technology in the manufacturing sector, enabling the fabrication of diverse metal components. As industries continuously strive for improved quality and productivity, welding processes have become more sophisticated and automated. To ensure assembly consistency, reproducibility, and quality, it is essential to visualize and monitor the weld pool, especially considering the challenging conditions posed by high temperatures, intense light, and significant contrasts.

What are Short Wave Infrared Cameras?

Short Wave Infrared (SWIR) cameras operate in the wavelength range of 0.9 to 1.7 microns, which is beyond the scope of human vision. These cameras offer superior imaging capabilities compared to visible light cameras under specific conditions. One advantage is their high dynamic range, allowing them to capture both the welding arc and the bevels in a single image without the need for filters. SWIR cameras provide high-contrast, clear images of the welding arc, melting bath, and surrounding material, enabling enhanced visualization of welding processes.

For a more in-depth explanation of SWIR cameras, read our previous blog post: How Do SWIR Cameras Work?

The Use of SWIR Cameras in Welding

SWIR cameras provide high-quality imaging of the welding arc, melting bath, and surrounding material, facilitating process control and quality assurance. With their compatibility across various welding processes and applications in additive manufacturing and thermal imaging, SWIR cameras have become indispensable in the welding and manufacturing industries. As technology continues to advance, these cameras hold immense potential for further innovations in the field of welding visualization.

Some of the benefits of SWIR cameras include being able to image through fumes and smoke in challenging environments, which is difficult or impossible with other techniques. They are also compatible with various glass optical filters that can withstand harsh welding conditions and produce high-resolution images ideal for monitoring high-precision processes.

Visualizing Welding Processes with New Imaging Technologies

New Imaging Technologies (NIT) is a renowned company that designs and manufactures image products based on patented high-dynamic range response sensors. The SWIR cameras we offer deliver exceptional image quality, ensuring the precise monitoring of welding operations.

For visualizing welding processes, we recommend the WiDy SenS 640 SWIR camera. It is a unique dual-response InGaAs sensor with high sensitivity and an HDR camera designed to provide a VGA resolution of 640x512px for a wide field of view. The WiDy SenS is commonly used as a beam diagnostic tool in additive manufacturing processes such as welding.

In the world of laser technology, the use of Shortwave Infrared (SWIR) has proven to be immensely beneficial. SWIR refers to the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that spans from 900nm to 1700nm. It lies between the visible and long-wave infrared regions, showcasing distinctive properties that set it apart from other types of light. Unlike visible light, SWIR is invisible to the human eye, but it can be detected by specialized cameras and sensors. This technology offers a range of unique characteristics that have revolutionized laser applications and opened up new possibilities in various industries. In this blog post, we will explore the advantages of SWIR for laser applications.

Advantages of SWIR for Laser Applications

In comparison to other types of light used in laser applications, SWIR holds several distinct advantages. These advantages contribute to improved accuracy, precision, and efficiency in laser systems, especially in outdoor applications where visibility may be limited.

Complementary Capabilities of Thermal Cameras

When used together with thermal cameras, SWIR cameras provide complementary capabilities. They excel in low-light conditions while offering the ability to capture images during daylight as well. This versatility ensures consistent imaging performance across different lighting scenarios.

High-Resolution Imaging

SWIR cameras deliver high-resolution imaging, capturing tiny details with outstanding clarity. This attribute is valuable in scientific and industrial applications, where precise analysis and visualization are paramount. NIT’s state-of-the-art SWIR cameras offer excellent imaging, with some up to 2k resolution.

High Sensitivity to Invisible Light

SWIR cameras possess high sensitivity to invisible light, enabling the detection and analysis of light wavelengths beyond the visible spectrum. This feature makes SWIR cameras invaluable in applications such as military imaging and semiconductor inspection.

Illumination-Free Operation

One of the primary benefits of SWIR cameras is their ability to operate without the need for additional illumination. This simplifies the setup and ensures efficient imaging in various conditions, enabling SWIR cameras to be used in cost-effective and practical laser applications.

Unmatched Visibility Through Obstacles

SWIR cameras offer unparalleled visibility through obstacles like fog, smoke, and materials such as glass. This unique characteristic allows for high-quality imaging in challenging conditions, making SWIR ideal for applications that demand reliable and clear visualization.

New Imaging Technologies and SWIR Products

Shortwave Infrared (SWIR) has emerged as a powerful ally for laser applications, revolutionizing the way lasers are used across various industries. With its ability to penetrate obstacles, capture images through glass, differentiate objects, provide depth of penetration, identify beacons and lasers, and accurately assess power distribution, SWIR offers significant advantages over other types of light. Its utilization enhances the accuracy, precision, and efficiency of laser systems, paving the way for advancements in laser material processing, spectroscopy, and other fields. 

Within the realm of SWIR cameras, New Imaging Technologies (NIT) is a prominent player that offers cutting-edge solutions for laser applications. Our SWIR cameras are manufactured with state-of-the-art InGaAs material in-house to offer innovative and cost-effective solutions in laser applications and more.

We provide cameras for industry professionals who are looking to unlock the full potential of SWIR in laser applications.

SenS 1280 – Smart version

Introducing the SenS 1280 HD SWIR camera – Smart version, developed and produced in France. This camera delivers crisp, low-noise images with its impressive features: HD resolution, automatic gain control, and advanced image processing capabilities.

Key features

With a high-definition resolution of 1280×1024 pixels and a 10-micron pixel pitch, the SenS 1280 camera ensures exceptional image quality. It offers high sensitivity with a read-out noise of only 30e-, providing remarkable clarity and accuracy for capturing fine details – the best performance in the market(4 times more sensitive than a 5-micron pixel pitch).

Equipped with advanced onboard image processing, the SenS 1280 HD SWIR camera-Smart version guarantees unparalleled performance. Here’s what it offers:

• Automatic Gain Control (AGC): Ensures optimal brightness and contrast levels, enabling precise detail capture even in challenging lighting conditions. This eliminates the need for manual adjustments and simplifies the imaging process.
• Automatic Integration Time (AIT): The camera can automatically adjust the exposure time to match a target brightness eliminating the need for manual adjustments.
• On-board Non-Uniformity Correction (NUC) and Bad Pixel Replacement (BPR):  Enhance image quality by correcting irregularities and replacing defective pixels.
• Quantum Efficiency (QE) of over 80%: Maximizes sensitivity to shortwave infrared light, facilitating accurate detection and analysis.
• Frame rate 60Hz full frame: Ensures smooth, real-time imaging, capturing objects with precision and accuracy.
• Region of Interest (ROI): Improve overall imaging efficiency by allowing users to focus on specific areas of interest.
• GenICam compliant

The embedded version of the SenS 1280 camera supports both CameraLink and SDI interfaces, providing flexibility and compatibility with a wide range of systems.

As a result, this camera is ideally suited for machine vision and surveillance applications.

The camera will be presented at Laser World of Photonics 2023

The semiconductor industry supports a vast amount of applications worldwide. Therefore, it should be no surprise that semiconductor inspection is highly important and must be optimized to ensure the quality and reliability of integrated circuits used in various electronic devices. Although there are several methods available for semiconductor inspection, SWIR (Short-Wave Infrared) imaging devices have emerged as powerful tools for this application. In this blog post, we will explore the applications, benefits, and key features of SWIR imaging devices in semiconductor inspection.

Understanding SWIR Imaging Devices

SWIR imaging provides enhanced sensitivity and image quality, enabling the detection of subtle defects that might go unnoticed with other technologies. Additionally, SWIR cameras offer non-destructive testing capabilities, allowing for thorough inspection without causing any damage to the semiconductor materials. Real-time monitoring and inspection automation are facilitated by SWIR cameras, improving efficiency and reducing the need for manual intervention. Furthermore, SWIR imaging devices are known for their cost-effectiveness, making them an attractive option for semiconductor manufacturers.

Learn more about how SWIR cameras work.

Applications of SWIR Imaging in Semiconductor Inspection

In the semiconductor industry, SWIR cameras are typically used to inspect ingots (silicon columns), thin wafers, and other semiconductor components, and they are also used for specific processing steps and failure analysis. Below, we look at these applications in more detail.

Bonding and Wire Detection

SWIR cameras can be used to inspect bonding and wire connections within integrated circuits. When these components are visualized, they enable users to identify problems such as detachment or misalignment and damaged wires. 

Defect Detection and Classification

SWIR cameras are an outstanding choice of equipment for detecting and classifying defects such as cracks, particles, and micro-cracks in semiconductor components. They can penetrate silicon and other semiconductor materials, allowing for comprehensive inspection.

Wafer Inspection and Metrology

SWIR imaging devices enable accurate inspection and metrology of semiconductor wafers. They can be used to evaluate wafer alignment marks, critical dimensions, and overlay measurements, contributing to quality control in the manufacturing process.

Yield Improvement and Process Optimization

SWIR imaging devices are vital in improving yield and optimizing semiconductor manufacturing processes. They aid in identifying and rectifying process-related issues, reducing waste, and enhancing overall productivity.

SWIR imaging devices are regarded as invaluable tools in semiconductor inspection. Their ability to see through silicon and other semiconductor materials and enhanced sensitivity enable comprehensive defect detection and quality control. By utilizing SWIR imaging devices, semiconductor manufacturers can improve yields, optimize processes, and enhance overall productivity. Further innovations will likely enhance SWIR imaging for semiconductor inspection as technology advances.

New Imaging Technologies Offer SWIR Imaging Devices

New Imaging Technologies (NIT) has established itself as a leading provider of SWIR sensors and cameras, offering a range of solutions for semiconductor inspection. Notably, NIT’s SWIR imaging devices offer a compelling performance-to-price ratio, making them highly suitable for integration into semiconductor production lines. With our advanced InGaAs material, proprietary manufacturing platforms, and expertise in ROIC, camera engineering, and CMOS design, NIT continues to provide SWIR solutions that combine exceptional performance and cost-effectiveness.

As the semiconductor industry evolves, NIT remains at the forefront of SWIR imaging technology, poised to contribute to further advancements in semiconductor inspection and quality control. With their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, NIT’s SWIR imaging devices are set to play an essential role in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of semiconductor manufacturing processes.

The ever-growing demand for higher data rates, more cost-effective systems, higher bandwidths, and data security drives continuous innovation in laser communication. Free-space optical (FSO) communication systems are being continuously refined to meet these demands, offering exciting new possibilities in laser communication. This article will delve into the evolution of FSO for future comms systems.

What is Free-Space Optical Communication?

Free-space optical communication is a technology that uses light propagating in free space, such as air, outer space, or vacuum, to transmit data for telecommunications or computer networking wirelessly. FSO systems use modulated optical beams, typically infrared laser light or LEDs, to transmit data between transceivers that are in line-of-sight (LOS) with each other. This technology is considered a part of optical wireless communications and can be used for various applications, including communications between spacecraft, chip-to-chip, or board-to-board interconnections, earth observation, and so on. The wavelength of interest for FSO is the SWIR waveband, especially at 1550nm.

What are the Pros and Cons of FSO?

FSO technology offers numerous advantages, such as high data transmission rates, license-free operation, rapid deployment for temporary backbones in mobile wireless communication infrastructure, and the ability to function over several kilometres. However, there are also disadvantages, including the dependence on LOS between transceivers and susceptibility to atmospheric conditions, such as haze, rainfall, fog, and scintillation, which can negatively impact the transmission and reception of optical signals.

Enhancing FSO Technology with SWIR Wavelengths

Short-wave infrared (SWIR) technology is used in FSO systems to improve the performance and reliability of data transmission. SWIR cameras are sensitive to a specific portion of the infrared spectrum, between near-infrared (NIR) and mid-wave infrared (MWIR), and are less affected by poor visibility and atmospheric conditions. These cameras offer low noise and high frame rates, enabling efficient data transmission irrespective of ambient conditions. Additionally, high-speed SWIR InGaAs cameras can be used in fast adaptive optics setups, which help overcome limitations of FSO communications, such as atmospheric turbulence and signal degradation.

Interested in Laser Communications?

If you’re interested in keeping up with the latest innovations in laser communications, read our blog content. New Imaging Technologies (NIT) was founded in 2007 as a spin-off of the French National Research Center for Telecommunications, with the goal of designing and producing image products based upon patented high dynamic range response sensors.

NIT initially focused on CMOS visible sensors, but quickly turned to the short wave infrared region (SWIR) with a line of InGaAs SWIR products. Large R&D investments have taken place at NIT over the last years to cover all technical aspects of SWIR technology, from read-out circuit design, hybridization technology, photodiode arrays, camera electronics, and software.

Now a vertically integrated source for SWIR sensors and cameras, NIT boasts unique in-house manufacturing technologies such as small pitch high yield hybridization capacity. The SWIR InGaAs line is our sole activity, with a unique product portfolio ranging from small low-cost SWIR sensors, high-speed line arrays, and large format focal plane arrays VGA and SXGA.

References and further reading:

1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/physics-and-astronomy/free-space-optical-communication
2. Kaur, M., & Brar, A. K. (2017). Free Space Optics Communication – Trends and Challenges. International Journal of Engineering Development and Research, 5(2). Punjabi University, Patiala. ISSN: 2321-9939.