Just as the computing world transformed from room-sized computers to powerful chips in the 1940s, we’re witnessing a similar revolution in optics. Traditional optical systems face challenges that mirror the early days of computing:
Bulky lens systems requiring complex assembly
Costly production processes
Limited integration capabilities
Discrete components that are difficult to miniaturize
At Alpha Cen, we’re not just making flat lenses – we’re revolutionizing how optical elements integrate with modern electronics.
Our Breakthrough: Making Optical Elements Like Integrated Circuits#
Our innovative approach brings several groundbreaking advantages:
Transformation of bulky lens systems into integrated flat lenses
Seamless optoelectronic module assembly, similar to IC packaging
CMOS-compatible manufacturing processes
Dramatic reduction in size while maintaining or improving performance
By leveraging cutting-edge metasurface technology, we are eliminating many of the historical limitations of optical systems. Our designs are more streamlined, easier to produce, and better suited to the demands of today’s tech landscape. This is how optics becomes as transformative as the microchip did for electronics.
Since our founding in April 2021, Alpha Cen has achieved remarkable milestones:
Development of a 12-inch CMOS-compatible metalens production line – The facility is optimized for high-volume production with precision lithographic control.
Complete process verification (August 2022) – We validated our processes to ensure reliability and scalability.
First batch sample shipment (July 2023) – We provided samples to industry leaders, receiving highly positive feedback.
Mass production shipment initiation (July 2024) – The shipment of commercial units to our clients marked a major milestone in operational scalability.
Our journey to market leadership has already yielded impressive results:
First company to implement metalens technology in a major vacuum robotics brand – We have demonstrated real-world applications of metalenses, establishing credibility in the industry.
Current production rate of 100,000 units per month and growing – Our production capacity reflects the demand for compact, high-performance optics.
Superior performance metrics compared to traditional solutions:
Our technology represents a fundamental shift in optical control, moving from traditional curved lenses to advanced software-defined light manipulation. This shift is comparable to the evolution from analog to digital in the world of electronics. Our approach offers:
Increased control flexibility – Adjust the characteristics of light as easily as configuring software parameters.
Simplified manufacturing processes – Reduced number of components and simplified assembly.
Alpha Cen has made significant advances in manufacturing, focusing on scalability and integration:
Direct integration with existing semiconductor fabrication facilities – Our processes are fully compatible with standard CMOS lines, facilitating mass production.
Superior pattern control through advanced lithography – We employ high-resolution lithographic techniques to achieve precise optical structures.
Compatibility with back-illuminated CIS processes – Our lenses work seamlessly with back-side illuminated sensor technologies, enhancing imaging capabilities.
Multi-layer pattern capabilities – Allowing for more complex lens structures that enhance the functionality of our products.
Cost-effective mass production – Our method provides a lower cost per unit, even at high production volumes.
We envision a future where our technology continues to evolve and shape the world of optics:
Expansion from Near Infrared to Visible spectrum – Broadening application fields from specialized sensing to everyday imaging.
Evolution from single wavelength to wide spectrum capabilities – Creating versatile devices suitable for a range of applications.
Progression from passive to active, software-defined general-purpose devices – Moving towards devices that can be adapted to diverse requirements on-the-fly.
Advanced development from sensing to visible imaging and computing – Enabling not just better sensing but also computational capabilities within optical systems.
