Optics

Progress in autonomous driving and increasing traffic density place enormous demands on the optical components of our means of transport, such as headlights, sensors and display systems. New optical designs and functionalities hold a variety of unique selling points for the products in such saturated markets. The Fraunhofer IPT develops solutions for attachment lenses of headlight modules, LiDAR and rain sensors, night vision cameras or head-up displays. We manufacture complex free-form surfaces with superimposed microstructures from plastic or glass and assemble them into optical systems of the highest functionality.

Light as a design element increases the sense of well-being and inspires with its functionality. Together with our customers we transform lighting ideas into individual lighting concepts. With the LightGuide technology we can influence the distribution of light in vehicles and rooms almost in any way. In addition to components for targeted light distribution, the Fraunhofer IPT also offers freely formed decorative glass surfaces that impress with their high-quality haptics and functionalised surfaces with structures or perforations.

From the calculation of microstructures for lighting control through the production of a form stamp or roller master to the turnkey production process, we support our customers in implementing their design wishes.

We design and build optical components and system solutions for challenging tasks in sensor technology - from individual beam shaping concepts to complex, multi-axis systems for automated coupling systems and the assembly of photodetectors. Our focus is on the efficient replication of chalcogenide glasses for the infrared range and on the coupling of optical fibers for data center communication by micro-optics and their automated, active adjustment.

In laser technology with ever increasing power densities, the beam guidance systems often form the bottleneck. The Fraunhofer IPT is therefore developing optics and lens systems made of new materials with improved geometries as well as the corresponding manufacturing processes. In this way, it is possible to produce more cost-effective overall systems with formed fused silica optics. In addition, we develop the equipment for optics assembly: Passive or active alignment strategies allow high-precision alignment and automated joining of components.

Optical components also contribute to technical progress in sensitive social areas. For example, the Fraunhofer IPT has efficient manufacturing processes for infrared transmissive glasses, so-called chalcogenide glasses. Typical applications include security cameras, automotive assistance systems, and thermography in process, construction and environmental technology. Precision molding allows sophisticated materials to be efficiently produced in sophisticated geometries and in large quantities without the need for post-processing. Often the demands on the precision of such systems are extremely high. Here, we also ensure that our customers are optimally served through function-oriented automation of assembly.

Many people experience the benefits of powerful optics first-hand: Miniaturised optics or fiber optics in endoscopes help in tomographic imaging, while micro-optics are used to adjust the field of view and angle of vision. The Fraunhofer IPT also develops production processes and tools for visual aids - from progressive and contact lenses to intraocular lenses. This allows individual optics to be produced quickly and directly or via a secondary mold made of glass or plastic in the highest quality.