Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF
Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF

System engineering for opto-mechatronics and quantum technologies

Design and integration of innovative complex opto-mechatronic systems

 

In order to develop hardware for various applications in opto-mechatronics and quantum technologies, we at Fraunhofer IOF are working on bulk optical, miniaturized or micro-optical and integrated-optical components and systems.

Your partner for customized optics and quantum hardware

 

We develop holistic solutions for complex opto-mechatronic systems, from concept development and package design to high-precision system integration.

 

Key areas of expertise and competencies

Our range of services includes:

  • Optical, mechanical and thermal design of bulk-optical, miniaturized, micro-optical and integrated-optical components and systems for applications in quantum technologies
  • Assembly, packaging and temperature control of non-linear media
  • Integration of free-space optical and integrated-optical components
  • Packaging of quantum optical systems for applications in specific scenarios such as communication and aerospace
  • Development of ultra-stable opto-mechatronic systems for very harsh operating conditions, such as extreme temperatures, ultra-high vacuum, high-pressure environments
A metal plate. Gold dots are embedded along the long sides on the outside. A dark green plate with further golden dots is embedded in the middle. Two electrodes are attached to the short sides of the Greens plate.
© Fraunhofer IOF
Four-mode LNOI interferometer with optical and electrical packaging for a Photonics computer.
A kind of metallic tower made of individual plates. Several metallic wires emerge from the center of the front. A red beam comes out of a composite structure on the right.
© Fraunhofer IOF
Detailed view of a laser addressing unit for quantum computers.
A cuboid made of metal. Wires lead out of the side facing it. A kind of white dot with a red bar can be seen at the front. A pair of tweezers holds a small plate. These are apparently to be placed on the red bar.
© Fraunhofer IOF
Optical multiplexer with lithographically structured microlenses and coupled fibers.
Four metal tubes with screw threads in the body lie parallel on a black surface. A kind of blue dot is projected from the front of the tubes, reflecting blue light onto the black surface.
© Fraunhofer IOF
Laser-induced ignition system for cleaner and more efficient combustion engines.
 

Markets and applications

  • Aerospace
    • Satellite communications
  • Medical engineering
    • Lab-on-a-chip systems
    • Endoscope optics
  • Energy generation
  • Quantum technologies
A metallic structure with two entanglements. Two copper wires and two thin white wires protrude from one side.
© Fraunhofer IOF
Entangled photon source for satellite-based quantum communication.
Two black tubes of different sizes with optical lenses are placed on a small metal table. Two beams of light point to these lenses.
© Fraunhofer IOF
Fiber-coupled optical addressing unit for an ion-based quantum processor unit.
Active alignment of individual fibers to form a Photonics Integrated Circuit.
© Fraunhofer IOF
Active alignment of individual fibers to form a Photonics Integrated Circuit.
 

The advantages of working with us

 

Fraunhofer IOF covers the entire value chain from the design, production and assembly of special quantum optical and opto-mechatronic components and systems to their implementation and application. Prototypes can be designed, built and evaluated for special application scenarios.

Technical equipment

  • Design and simulation software for quantum optics, classical optics, mechanics and thermomechanics
  • Assembly systems with semi-automatic and fully automatic positioning equipment for up to 6 degrees of freedom and resolutions in the <<1 micrometer range
  • joining technologies such as bonding, soldering and welding for the long-term stable packaging of hybrid-optical systems
  • CO2 laser technologies for the production of fiber optic systems
Researcher at a laboratory set-up with cables, lenses and other optical equipment. The researcher has a kind of rod in his hand.
© Fraunhofer IOF
Precise alignment and integration of optical components for laser addressing in an ion trap-based quantum computer.

Our research strength

Our researchers publish many of their scientific findings in specialist journals. Both the large number of scientific publications and patents speak for the excellence of our researchers. We offer licenses for our patent-protected processes.

The research strength of our experts is reflected, among other things, in the contributions to the Fraunhofer IOF annual report. Every year, selected research results from the previous year are published in this report. Here you will find the articles on developments in the field of systems engineering from previous years:

 

High-precision measurement technology for characterizing a lithium niobate waveguide in the Fraunhofer IOF laboratory, with laser alignment and optical testing unit for integrated Photonics.
© Fraunhofer IOF
High-precision alignment of fibers for low-loss fiber-to-chip coupling .

Do you have any questions about our services? We are happy to talk to you!

We will be happy to advise you on our (individual) range of services and our core areas of expertise in a personal meeting. Feel free to spokesperson us.

Your inquiry

Are you interested in a collaboration? Contact us!

We develop special and visionary solutions - tailored to the needs and wishes of our customers. Let's talk about your idea(s).

 

Find solutions

Would you like to work with us?
Then send us your application!

We are always on the lookout for creative minds and committed people who will work with us to develop innovative solutions with light. Visit our job portal or send us an unsolicited application:

Become part of the team

This might also interest you:

Optical and Mechanical System Design
Photonic Quantum Systems
Laser and Fiber Technology
Precision Optical Components and Systems
Micro- and Nanostructured Optics
Imaging and Sensing
Active and Adaptive Optics
Opto-mechatronical Components and Systems