A measuring station is made fit for the future New control system for the LIDT measuring station in cooperation with the ESA institute at OST
About Optica
10 February 2025
A measuring station is made fit for the future New control system for the LIDT measuring station in cooperation with the ESA institute at OST
The LIDT measuring station is the centerpiece of RhySearch's Optical Characterization Center. Every year, numerous optical components are destructively tested here for their laser resistance. Many companies in regional industry already benefit from this, but LIDT characterization plays in addition an important role in internal services and funded research projects. A new control system with online detection makes the test facility fit for the future enabling earlier identification of damages.
Laser-induced damage can destroy the functionality of optical components. Manufacturers of optics and laser systems therefore need to know the laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT) in order to qualify the processes and specify the applications.
RhySearch is the only research institute in Switzerland and Liechtenstein with the infrastructure to carry out LIDT measurements in accordance with ISO standard 21254. In order to be able to offer even more evaluation options in the future, RhySearch's Optical Coating and Characterization Lab has developed its own control system as part of a research project, which naturally complies with the current standard and the requirements of the optics and laser industry.
The control system includes the automation of measurement, evaluation and the generation of a measurement report, so it automates and facilitates the entire process.
With this fundamentally new control system, RhySearch will not only have the access to the know-how but will also be able to determine the future expansion and further development itself. This will ensure that the LIDT measurement service can be adapted to the needs of the industry at any time in the future.
The Institute for Electronics, Sensors and Actuators (ESA) at the OST - University of Applied Sciences Eastern Switzerland in Buchs has been secured as a research partner. “We have thus found a partner who can take up and implement our innovative ideas,” says project manager Christoph Sturzenegger.
Figure 1: The LIDT measuring station is the centrepiece of RhySearch's Optical Characterization Center
Fabian Burz, a student at the University of Applied Sciences Graubünden (FHGR) specializing in photonics, also developed an online damage detection system for the new LIDT control system as part of his bachelor's thesis. “Promoting young talent is important for RhySearch. We are delighted that we have once again been able to offer a young scientist the opportunity to gain practical experience as part of a real-life project,” emphasizes Heidi Thomé, Head of the O2C Lab.
Thanks to the improved online damage detection system, damage can be detected earlier, improving the efficiency of the measurement as well as its informative value.
The LIDT measuring station at RhySearch is now ready to meet the challenges of the future, setting a new standard for precision and innovation. This advanced service is available to the industry, enabling companies to explore and optimize their optical components' capabilities. Interested parties can contact the RhySearch team to discuss how their expertise can open up new opportunities.
About RhySearch.
The Rhine Valley Research and Innovation Centre From precision manufacturing to optical coatings and digitalization, this is where innovation begins! RhySearch is a partner of industry and carries out research as a service to initiate high-tech projects. It is a contact point for companies for comprehensive research and innovation support and promotes networking between companies and research institutions. RhySearch has a technical infrastructure that is unique in Switzerland and Liechtenstein and works closely with its cooperation partners OST - Ostschweizer Fachhochschule, Empa, inspire AG, the University of Liechtenstein and the Swiss Innovation Park Ost. It is recognized by Innosuisse, the Swiss Agency for Innovation, as a research institution eligible for funding. RhySearch is sponsored by the Canton of St. Gallen and the Principality of Liechtenstein.
