Pico projection optical module provider iView Ltd. and microdisplay developer Forth Dimension Displays Ltd. have entered into an agreement to develop, manufacture and sell structured light projectors (SLPs). SLPs are a key component of 3D automated in-line optical inspection (3D AOI), equipment that is rapidly replacing 2D AOI in printed circuit board (PCB) manufacture. The ability to use 3D AOI to measure components in all three dimensions, on every PCB in real time, enables companies to improve yields and product quality while reducing wastage and costs. "3D scanning using structured light projection is an emerging technology with various applications,” said Steve Yeung, CEO of iView. “In particular, the market for 3D AOI machines is rapidly growing in China. Combining Forth Dimension Display’s SLM and iView’s projection technology will result in a cost-effective 3D AOI optical system solution for our customers.” iView will manufacture the SLPs at its factory in Shenzhen, China, combining Forth Dimension Display’s SXGA-3DM Spatial Light Modulator (SLM) with an LED illuminator and LED drive electronics, optical components and housing. The SLP will deliver precise, high-resolution structured light patterns over a 40 × 40-mm field of view. “The market for 3D AOI machines is growing rapidly in all parts of the world,” said Greg Truman, CEO of Forth Dimension Displays. “Forth Dimension Displays has a very strong position in the market, supplying leading manufacturers in Germany, Japan and South Korea. Working closely with iView, Forth Dimension Displays intends to develop a similarly strong position supplying Chinese 3D AOI machine manufacturers.” iView is a provider of pico projection optical modules. Forth Dimension Displays is a developer of high-resolution, reflective microdisplays and spatial light modulators for the industrial, health care and government markets.