Profile: | Research and development at Fraunhofer IOF focuses on optical systems technology with a view to continually improving the control of light from generation via guiding and manipulation up to its application. A unique feature of the Fraunhofer IOF is the combination of expertise in optics and precision mechanics.
Fields of work involve:
- Optical Coatings: Development of coating technologies (electron-beam and plasma-ion-assisted deposition, magnetron sputtering, coatings on plastics); coatings for the ultraviolet spectral region of down to 120 nm, low-temperature coatings, coatings for extremely short wavelength (between 3 nm and 20 nm); complex ISO characterization of optical surfaces and coatings.
- Optical Systems/Optical Metrology: Noncontacting 3-D shape measurement; surface measuring systems (scattered light, profilometry, scanning force microscopy, confocal microscopy, interferometry); characterization of optical and technical functional surfaces and thin coatings (topography, roughness, microstructure, optical and mechanical features); design of optical systems.
- Microoptical Systems: Conception, design, modeling, and simulation of components and systems; development, production, and characterization of micro optical components in plastic, Si and glass technologies; components and modules for optical information technology as well as laser and beam-forming engineering, micro opto-mechanic systems for optical sensing.
- Precision Engineering: Simulation and design of opto-mechanical systems through to the prototype; precision systems: air bearings and precision balancing, wafer holders with electrostatic chucks; automated micro-assembly: precision bonding technology, handling and micro-feeding; specialized know-how in the field of medical engineering and space technology, fiber laser.
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