In the fast-evolving field of optical metrology, CGH Cylinder Nulls have emerged as indispensable tools for precision testing and calibration of cylindrical and aspheric surfaces. By replacing complex mechanical setups with computer-generated holography (CGH), these null correctors enable ultra-precise surface verification in high-end optical systems such as telescopes, camera lenses, and semiconductor inspection instruments. This article explores how, why, and what makes CGH Cylinder Nulls vital for industries seeking sub-micron accuracy and cost-effective testing solutions, while also highlighting the professional excellence of Ningbo Zhixing Optical Technology Co., Ltd., a leading manufacturer in this field.
What Are CGH Cylinder Nulls?
How Do CGH Cylinder Nulls Work and Why Are They Crucial?
Product Parameters and Technical Specifications
Applications and Performance Advantages
About Ningbo Zhixing Optical Technology Co., Ltd.
FAQ – Everything You Need to Know About CGH Cylinder Nulls
Summary and Contact Us
CGH Cylinder Nulls are specialized holographic optical elements designed to test and verify the surface shape of cylindrical or aspherical optical components. Instead of relying on traditional mechanical reference surfaces, these devices use precisely computed holograms to create a reference wavefront. When this holographic wavefront interacts with a test surface, any deviation from the ideal shape becomes visible as an interference pattern.
The result is an immediate, high-resolution evaluation of the optical surface's accuracy, without requiring expensive mechanical null lenses. CGH Cylinder Nulls bring digital precision into optical testing—offering flexibility, repeatability, and minimal setup error.
The working principle of CGH Cylinder Nulls lies in diffractive optics. A computer-generated hologram is encoded with a phase pattern that corresponds to the ideal shape of the cylindrical optical surface being tested. When a laser beam passes through or reflects off this hologram, it generates a wavefront that precisely matches the theoretical optical shape.
When the CGH wavefront and the test surface wavefront overlap, any imperfections appear as fringe patterns. These fringes allow optical engineers to detect deviations in curvature, alignment, or surface smoothness with nanometer precision.
They eliminate the need for costly, heavy, and fragile null lenses.
They simplify the testing of complex geometries.
They deliver reliable data in less time, enhancing production efficiency.
They ensure sub-wavelength accuracy for industries such as aerospace, defense, and precision optics.
In a world where accuracy defines success, CGH Cylinder Nulls provide the bridge between design intent and real-world optical performance.
The performance of a CGH Cylinder Null depends on precise fabrication standards. Below are key specifications that define quality and performance:
| Parameter | Specification | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Fused Silica / Quartz | High transparency and low thermal expansion |
| Wavelength Range | 405 nm – 1064 nm | Compatible with most interferometers |
| Surface Accuracy | λ/20 or better | Ensures sub-nanometer precision |
| Diameter Range | 25 mm – 300 mm | Customizable for different optical setups |
| Pattern Type | Binary / Multi-level | Optimized based on customer requirements |
| Mounting Option | Custom Fixture / Plate | Flexible integration with testing systems |
| Property | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Phase Accuracy | ≤ λ/50 | High fidelity to design wavefront |
| Diffraction Efficiency | ≥ 90% | Ensures strong and clean interference patterns |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +80°C | Stable across varying environments |
| Storage Condition | Dry, dust-free | Protects the holographic surface |
| Inspection Compatibility | Zygo, 4D, Trioptics Systems | Universally compatible with major brands |
Each CGH Cylinder Null is designed and tested with traceable calibration to international metrology standards, ensuring consistent accuracy and repeatability.
CGH Cylinder Nulls are used in diverse optical applications, including:
Cylindrical lens inspection and alignment
Aspherical mirror verification
Optical system assembly calibration
Semiconductor wafer surface evaluation
Aerospace optics production testing
Precision – Achieve nanometer-level accuracy in wavefront analysis.
Efficiency – Reduce testing time by 60% compared to traditional methods.
Cost-Effectiveness – Eliminate the need for multiple mechanical null lenses.
Flexibility – Easily customized for different optical designs.
Traceability – Compatible with industry-standard interferometers for easy integration.
Ningbo Zhixing Optical Technology Co., Ltd. is a globally recognized manufacturer specializing in high-precision optical testing instruments, holographic elements, and metrology solutions. With decades of experience in optical design and manufacturing, the company has built a strong reputation for innovation, reliability, and technical expertise in the field of CGH Cylinder Nulls and holographic metrology.
Ningbo Zhixing Optical Technology Co., Ltd. is a technology enterprise focusing on the research and development of optical devices, such as Machine Vision Calibration Board, Optical Glass Line Ruler, Photomask, and etc. The founder of the company graduated from the Chinese Science Dean Chunguang Machinery Institute. The core research and development team includes several doctors who graduated from Changchun Institute of Optics and Electronics, Zhejiang University, Beijing Institute of Technology, and other famous domestic optoelectronic schools.
The company can complete the optical system design, aspherical surface processing, aspherical surface detector (CGH) production, machine vision calibration board development, and other needs according to customer needs, in the aspherical surface detector (CGH) has independent intellectual property rights, breaking the monopoly of foreign counterparts in this technology. In the development of calibration boards and many well-known enterprises at home and abroad to maintain long-term cooperation. Our corporate culture is to seek new knowledge, to seek truth from facts, to establish benchmarks with light, to establish contact with products, and to serve customers sincerely.
The company's production facilities are equipped with advanced lithography, coating, and interferometric calibration systems, ensuring every product meets international standards of optical precision. Ningbo Zhixing's team of optical engineers and metrology specialists collaborates closely with customers to deliver customized solutions for R&D laboratories, aerospace institutions, and optical manufacturers worldwide.
Q1: What is a CGH Cylinder Null used for?
A1: It's used for measuring and verifying the surface accuracy of cylindrical or aspheric optical components during manufacturing or testing.
Q2: How accurate are CGH Cylinder Nulls?
A2: Typically, they achieve phase accuracy of ≤ λ/50, ensuring sub-nanometer surface verification.
Q3: What wavelength range do they support?
A3: Most CGH Cylinder Nulls work within 405–1064 nm, compatible with various interferometers.
Q4: Can I customize the design?
A4: Yes. Ningbo Zhixing Optical Technology Co., Ltd. offers fully customized patterns, diameters, and mounting options.
Q5: Are they compatible with common interferometers?
A5: Absolutely. They can be integrated with Zygo, 4D, and other standard systems.
Q6: What materials are used for fabrication?
A6: Fused silica or quartz is used to ensure thermal stability and optical clarity.
Q7: How are CGH Cylinder Nulls stored or maintained?
A7: Store them in a dry, dust-free environment and handle with clean gloves to protect the holographic pattern.
Q8: How do they improve production efficiency?
A8: They significantly reduce setup time and eliminate the need for multiple mechanical reference optics.
Q9: Are they suitable for high-temperature environments?
A9: Yes, most designs are stable between -20°C and +80°C.
Q10: Where can I order CGH Cylinder Nulls?
A10: You can directly contact Ningbo Zhixing Optical Technology Co., Ltd. for inquiries, quotations, and technical consultations.
In today's competitive optical manufacturing environment, CGH Cylinder Nulls are transforming the way precision optics are tested and validated. By providing digital accuracy, cost savings, and operational efficiency, they represent a vital leap forward for optical engineering.
Ningbo Zhixing Optical Technology Co., Ltd. stands as a trusted partner for businesses seeking custom optical testing solutions that meet the highest international standards. Whether you require standard holographic nulls or tailor-made designs for unique optical systems, their expert team provides end-to-end technical support.
📩 Contact Us:
For technical consultation, product customization, or bulk orders of CGH Cylinder Nulls, please reach out to the professional team at Ningbo Zhixing Optical Technology Co., Ltd. via their official website or email. Experience precision, reliability, and innovation in every optical solution.
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