Optical Systems

The Fraunhofer IOF has state-of-the-art process chains for optical components and systems, from design and manufacturing to system integration. Applications cover the entire spectral range from EUV to THz.
In addition to the production of conventional aspherical optics, the Fraunhofer IOF develops modern free-form optics and adaptive optics up to 500 mm in diameter. Micro- and nanostructures for future photonic applications are realized on the basis of high-resolution lithographic technologies.

The technology chains can be combined in hybrid form.
The main areas of focus are in the fields of instrumentation for space/astro systems, equipment for lithography systems, micro- and nano-optical components, as well as optical security and communication systems.

Instrumentation for space/astro systems

Telescopes and spectrometers for astronomy and earth observation are based on highly precise components such as mirror optics and gratings, which develop their performance under extreme environmental conditions through optimized system design.

Free-form optics, mirrors, telescopes
Components and systems for spectroscopy
Functional layers and optical layers
Adaptive and active optics for wavefront control
Motion actuators, mirror mounts and additive metal structures

Free-form optics, adaptive optics, spectrometers, gratings, mirror kinematics, metal optics, mirrors, telescopes — © Fraunhofer IOF
"Deep Space Laser Altimeter" GALA: The mirror telescope is located on board the JUICE space probe for research into Jupiter and its moons.

Equipment for lithography systems

High-precision manufacturing technologies, optical characterization systems and highly dynamic gray-scale lithography enable the development of individual solutions for lithography and microelectronics manufacturing.

Components and systems for metrology
Chucks and kinematic holders for semiconductor substrates
Optics for light sources and projection systems
Special imaging systems

Metrology equipment, electrostatic chucks, mask frames, mirrors, reference marks, metrology frames, referencing: long-term stable reference marks and systems, for — © Fraunhofer IOF
EUV coating system

Micro- & Nano-optical components & systems

Photonic micro- and nanostructures open up new optical functionalities and enable highly flexible, compact solutions for customized optical systems in all areas from consumer to high-end applications.

Gratings, diffractive beam shapers and splitters, structured layers
Spectrometer gratings, slit assemblies, spectroscopic layer systems
Components (CGH) for asphere and free-form measurement
Process layers, nanostructured AR layers and special coatings for EUV
Miniaturized imaging systems
Illumination and projection systems

gratings, reference marks, CGH, arrays — © Fraunhofer IOF
Spectrometer grating with ALD coating

Optical security systems

System solutions based on customized optical components and individualized assembly and mounting technologies ensure beam shaping and beam guidance in optical security systems.

Optical beam guidance systems
Optical systems for mobile information display
Components for optical monitoring systems

Gratings, reference marks, CGH, arrays, compressors: Grauton, E-Lithography — © JENOPTIK
fo+ free-form optical germanium monolith for IR camera

Optics for communication systems

Components and systems for free-space, fiber- and satellite-based optical communication are realized with individualized beam sources and adaptive optical components and developed up to tap-proof quantum communication systems.

Terrestrial transmission and reception technology
Satellite-based transmission and reception technology

metal optics, fiber laser and coupling systems, mirrors, adaptive optics, quantum sources — © Fraunhofer IOF
Telescope system for tap-proof quantum communication as part of the QuNET project.

Cooperation with the Fraunhofer IOF

The Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF develops solutions with light – from its generation and manipulation to its use as a sensor and tool. Depending on the order, we support our customers along the entire process chain or with individual process steps – from design, to the production of components, to the assembly of opto-mechanical or opto-electronic systems, to comprehensive characterization.

In close coordination, we support our customers on request from their initial questions to market launch. We also transfer the results and developments into the processes of our partners and customers in the form of personnel qualification or technology transfer.

In addition to contract research, we also offer individual services such as functional surface coatings, material and component testing, ultra-precision machining of components, high-speed 3D measurements, and the construction of customized components and special-purpose machines. Furthermore, the institute holds a large number of patents for optical technologies and developments, for which we offer various licensing models. We provide information on current technological trends and developments in customized training and workshop formats.

Further information on our services can be found on the corresponding technology pages.