Optoelectronics
Optical fibres offer alternative way to 3D print microstructures
For the first time, researchers have shown that an optical fibre as thin as a human hair can be used to create microscopic structures with laser-based 3D printing. The innovative approach might one day be used with an endoscope to fabricate tiny biocompatible structures directly into tissue inside the body. This capability could enable new ways to repair tissue damage.
Optimising optics through increased design efficiency
If photonics is to meet the needs of a new generation of applications, problems will need to be addressed through better design and modelling. The EU-funded ADOPSYS project approached this challenge as much with a skills-based answer, as a technical one. Currently the field of photonics suffers from a lack of broad expertise in applied modelling and design for industrial optical systems and components.
IR detectors minimise fire risks
Infrared IR detectors are widely used to monitor industrial facilities for the presence of flames, ensuring that the risk of an outbreak of fire is minimised. A flame will flicker randomly at a rate between 1-20Hz when it is burned naturally, modulating any IR signal generated. Pyroelectric and lead sulphide detectors sense this modulated IR light and so can provide a warning of the presence of a flame. The signal to noise characteristic of the I...
LED strip lights combine illumination and indication
Provider of technology for industrial automation, Banner Engineering, has announced the release of WLS27 Multicolour LED Strip Lights with EZ-STATUS that perform both illumination and indication functions for machines and workstations. The latest additions to the WLS27 series feature LEDs in multiple colours that both illuminate work areas and provide status indication with one device.
Powerful inspection tool features infrared guided measurement tech
The FLIR DM285 industrial thermal imaging digital multimeter clamp meter has just been introduced by FLIR as an industrial inspection, troubleshooting and diagnostic tool for electrical distribution, electro-mechanical, heating, ventilation, air conditioning/refrigeration (HVAC/R), and electronics equipment applications.
Device poses an alternative way to generate lasers
Most objects react in predictable ways when force is applied to them—unless they have 'negative mass'. And then they react exactly opposite from what you would expect. Now University of Rochester researchers have succeeded in creating particles with negative mass in an atomically thin semiconductor, by causing it to interact with confined light in an optical microcavity.
Driving beam headlight technology enhances driver visibility
At this year's Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Texas Instruments has unveiled its DLP technology for high resolution headlight systems. According to the company, the new DLP chipset is the only offering on the market that combines full programmability and the highest resolution - more than one million addressable pixels per headlight - exceeding the resolution of existing Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) technologies by more than 10,000 tim...
Monolithic microLED display based on GaN-on-Silicon
Optoelectronic technology solutions developer, Plessey Semiconductor, has announced its commitment to being the first to market with a monolithic microLED based display based on GaN-on-Silicon. Plessey has also commenced an extensive licensing programme that will see the company license out its GaN-on-Silicon expertise to microLED manufacturers in line with its new business strategy of becoming the photonic industry’s foremost tec...
LED solutions are eye catching in latest concept car
Osram Opto Semiconductors is the exclusive lighting partner for Rinspeed’s Snap concept car. Rinspeed believes it is known for its visionary ideas and progressive design, therefore the Swiss-based think tank created Snap for a future defined by autonomous driving and urbanisation.
Matching the intensity of the laser to the speed
The performance of precision, multi-axis positioning solutions for laser processing depends both on the mechanics and the drive type selected, and also its automation controller. To achieve consistent path quality during laser cutting, the intensity of the laser and the speed of the moving components must be precisely matched to each other in order to cut as consistently as possible and in the shortest possible time. Author: Doris Knauer, S...