Fraunhofer Institute of Optronics, System Technologies and Image Exploitation IOSB Active Laser Fibers research group
On the Swabian Alb – in the immediate vicinity of relevant industrial partners and close to Aalen University, which has one of its focal points in the field of optical engineering/photonics – Fraunhofer IOSB is setting up its latest branch lab. With generous support from the city, a new research group of the Laser Technology Department (LAS) is to be established in Oberkochen.
The research group on active laser fibers in the wavelength range greater than 1.6 µm will research and develop suitable fiber preforms as well as adapted fiber drawing processes here. Fraunhofer IOSB is thus closing a gap in the value chain with regard to infrared lasers and can help Germany achieve technological sovereignty for lasers in this wavelength range, which is important for optronic applications.
Through the mediation of the city, the new branch lab will be located in a new research and development campus to be built by HENSOLDT Optronics by 2024. This has the great advantage that structural requirements for the planned research roadmap – in particular a tower shaft over several floors for the fiber drawing facility – can be implemented as desired.